Hamas on Monday (May 20) mourned the demise of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who passed away in a helicopter crash reported on the evening of Sunday (May 19).&nbsp;

The Palestinian militant group, that is fighting a war with Israel, said that Raisi supported the Palestinian people during the ongoing offensive.

"These leaders supported the legitimate struggle of our people against the Zionist entity, provided valued support to the Palestinian resistance, and made tireless efforts in solidarity and support in all forums and fields for our people in the steadfast Gaza Strip during the Battle of Al-Aqsa Flood," referring to the war with Israel which began on Oct 7.

"They also made significant political and diplomatic efforts to stop the Zionist aggression against our Palestinian people," said Hamas in a statement.

Raisi, who was also seen as a potential successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, lost his life in a helicopter crash that was first reported on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

The incident took place in the mountainous terrain near the border of Azerbaijan, as the Iranian leader was returning from the Khoda Afarin region after inaugurating a dam.

The helicopter carrying Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian was found in a charred state early on Monday after an overnight search amid rain and fog.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-declares-one-day-state-mourning-after-iranian-president-ebrahim-raisi-dies-in-helicopter-crash-723584">Also read: India declares one-day state mourning after Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi dies in helicopter crash</a>

<h2>'Raisi played important role in supporting Palestinians,' says Islamic Jihad</h2>

The Islamic Jihad group, which is fighting alongside Hamas in the war-torn Gaza Strip, also released a statement saying that Raisi and Amirabdollahian "played a prominent and clear role in supporting and assisting the struggle of the Palestinian people and its resistance in facing the ongoing criminal Zionist aggression."

"We are confident that the Islamic Republic of Iran can overcome this painful ordeal, as it has overcome all difficulties and challenges throughout its extended journey over the past decades," the group added.&nbsp;

<h2>Hezbollah expresses condolences</h2>

Lebanon's armed group Hezbollah offered its condolences on the death of Raisi.

"On the occasion of the painful incident that led to the martyrdom of Mr. Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the martyrdom of our dear brother Dr. Hossein Amirabdollahian, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic and the representative of His Eminence Imam Khamenei in Azerbaijan Province, Mr. Mohamed Ali Al Hashem and the rest of the honourable brothers. Hezbollah in Lebanon extends its deepest condolences and feelings of sympathy for their loss," the statement said.

"We have known His Eminence the martyr president closely for a long time. He was a big brother to us, a strong supporter, a staunch defender of our causes and the nation’s causes, foremost of which is Jerusalem and Palestine, and a protector of the resistance movements and their fighters in all the positions of responsibility he assumed," it added.&nbsp;

<h2>Iran and Gaza war</h2>

The statements by the militant groups claiming support from Raisi in the war against Israel come against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in the besieged Palestinian enclave which started after Hamas' assault on Oct 7.

Iran has repeatedly refuted claims of its involvement in what is termed one of the bloodiest attacks in Israel's history.

Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, after Hamas' unprecedented attacks against Israel, had said, "The supporters of the Zionist regime (Israel) and some people in the usurping regime (a reference to USA) have been spreading rumours over the past two or three days, including that Islamic Iran was behind this action. They are wrong."

Foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani had also denied an Iranian role in the attacks, “The accusations linked to an Iranian role… are based on political reasons.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas on Monday (May 20) mourned the demise of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who passed away in a helicopter crash reported on the evening of Sunday (May 19).

Hamas on Monday (May 20) mourned the demise of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who passed away in a helicopter crash reported on the evening of Sunday (May 19). The Palestinian militant group, that is fighting a war with Israel, said that Raisi supported the Palestinian people during the ongoing offensive. "These leaders supported the legitimate struggle of our people against the Zionist entity, provided valued support to the Palestinian resistance, and made tireless efforts in solidarity and support in all forums and fields for our people in the steadfast Gaza Strip during the Battle of Al-Aqsa Flood," referring to the war with Israel which began on Oct 7. "They also made significant political and diplomatic efforts to stop the Zionist aggression against our Palestinian people," said Hamas in a statement. Raisi, who was also seen as a potential successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, lost his life in a helicopter crash that was first reported on Sunday evening. The incident took place in the mountainous terrain near the border of Azerbaijan, as the Iranian leader was returning from the Khoda Afarin region after inaugurating a dam. The helicopter carrying Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian was found in a charred state early on Monday after an overnight search amid rain and fog. Also read: India declares one-day state mourning after Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi dies in helicopter crash 'Raisi played important role in supporting Palestinians,' says Islamic Jihad The Islamic Jihad group, which is fighting alongside Hamas in the war-torn Gaza Strip, also released a statement saying that Raisi and Amirabdollahian "played a prominent and clear role in supporting and assisting the struggle of the Palestinian people and its resistance in facing the ongoing criminal Zionist aggression." "We are confident that the Islamic Republic of Iran can overcome this painful ordeal, as it has overcome all difficulties and challenges throughout its extended journey over the past decades," the group added. Hezbollah expresses condolences Lebanon's armed group Hezbollah offered its condolences on the death of Raisi. "On the occasion of the painful incident that led to the martyrdom of Mr. Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the martyrdom of our dear brother Dr. Hossein Amirabdollahian, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic and the representative of His Eminence Imam Khamenei in Azerbaijan Province, Mr. Mohamed Ali Al Hashem and the rest of the honourable brothers. Hezbollah in Lebanon extends its deepest condolences and feelings of sympathy for their loss," the statement said. "We have known His Eminence the martyr president closely for a long time. He was a big brother to us, a strong supporter, a staunch defender of our causes and the nation’s causes, foremost of which is Jerusalem and Palestine, and a protector of the resistance movements and their fighters in all the positions of responsibility he assumed," it added. Iran and Gaza war The statements by the militant groups claiming support from Raisi in the war against Israel come against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in the besieged Palestinian enclave which started after Hamas' assault on Oct 7. Iran has repeatedly refuted claims of its involvement in what is termed one of the bloodiest attacks in Israel's history. Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, after Hamas' unprecedented attacks against Israel, had said, "The supporters of the Zionist regime (Israel) and some people in the usurping regime (a reference to USA) have been spreading rumours over the past two or three days, including that Islamic Iran was behind this action. They are wrong." Foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani had also denied an Iranian role in the attacks, “The accusations linked to an Iranian role… are based on political reasons.” (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas, Islamic Jihad mourn Raisi’s demise, hail him for ‘support’ in war against Israel

The plight of Bella, a beluga whale trapped alone in an insufficiently small tank for a decade, has sparked campaigns in Seoul over her unethical confinement, demanding her release.

The isolated beluga whale languishes in a lifeless and weeny 1,224-tonne tank amid bustling luxury shops at the foot of Lotte World Tower, the world’s sixth-tallest skyscraper.

Campaigners have been racing to rescue her before it is too late and calling on Lotte to close the Seoul exhibit entirely. An international petition has been launched to demand her liberation.

Referring to the Lotte Group which owns the aquarium, Jo Yak-gol, of the marine environmentalist group Hot Pink Dolphins, said: “Almost five years have passed since they said they would release her.”

<h2>Bella’s early life and initial crusade</h2>

In 2013, the beluga whale was captured in the Arctic Ocean off the Russian coast at the age of two. She was sold to the aquarium, housed in the mega-mall beneath the 555-metre-high Lotte World Tower, along with two other male belugas, Bello and Belli.

In 2016, Bello died prematurely at the age of five, followed by the death of 12-year-old Belli in 2019. However, the average lifespan of beluga whales in the wild is 35 to 50 years.

A public outcry started soon after, leading Lotte to pledge to release Bella following the second death and again in 2021. Nevertheless, such efforts have repeatedly stalled, for reasons like the Covid pandemic, but are seen more as token gestures.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/66-year-old-florida-man-arrested-after-decapitated-dog-found-in-park-days-after-adoption-723526">66-year-old Florida man arrested after decapitated dog found in park days after adoption</a>

As things stand at the moment, Bella can be seen switching between aimless spinning and floating motionless in her scanty confines. The whales can grow to 5.5 metres (18ft) long but the tank is only 7 metres deep. “She lacks stimulation and is showing signs of a mental illness,” said Jo.

Dr Valeria Vergara, the co-director of the Raincoast Conservation Foundation’s cetacean research programme, said belugas are highly intelligent and social. “They cooperate with each other to the point of helping raise each other’s young,” she said.

“They have long lives, and, of course, they have a very complex communication system,” said the marine biologist, who has studied beluga whales for more than two decades. “Keeping such beings in captivity is simply unethical.”

Bella is one of five captive belugas in South Korea, alongside one at Aqua Planet Yeosu and three others at Geoje Sea World. Until recently, the latter offered packages where visitors could pay to ride on the whales. But these have since been outlawed.

The aquarium industry is thriving, in South Korea and Asia on the whole. Lotte’s aquarium in Seoul is one of the largest in the region, attracting millions of visitors since it opened in 2014.

<h2>The way ahead for the beluga whale</h2>

Last December, South Korea banned buying whales and dolphins for display. However, the law does not apply retroactively, implying that animals already in captivity, such as Bella, can be kept.

Bella’s transfer to a seaside sanctuary is “the only ethical option”, according to Vergara. Having been removed from her natural habitat at such a young age, Bella could not survive in the open ocean. Belugas learn necessary skills such as hunting, migrating and communicating from their social groups.

In a statement, Lotte World Aquarium said it was working to protect animal rights and was “ready to send the beluga whale at any time”. It said it was having discussions with a committee composed of the oceans and fisheries ministry, animal rights groups and whale experts to carry out Bella’s release “based on a scientific and practical plan”.

It added that it was looking at a sanctuary in Iceland and planned sanctuaries in Norway and Canada as options.

Amid the concurrent bureaucratic tangle and different offers from sanctuaries, Bella remains in her tank. Outside Lotte World Tower, the Hot Pink Dolphins group still protest, demanding: “Free Bella now!”

(With inputs from agencies)

The plight of Bella, a beluga whale trapped alone in an insufficiently small tank for a decade, has sparked campaigns in Seoul over her unethical confinement, demanding her release.

The plight of Bella, a beluga whale trapped alone in an insufficiently small tank for a decade, has sparked campaigns in Seoul over her unethical confinement, demanding her release. The isolated beluga whale languishes in a lifeless and weeny 1,224-tonne tank amid bustling luxury shops at the foot of Lotte World Tower, the world’s sixth-tallest skyscraper. Campaigners have been racing to rescue her before it is too late and calling on Lotte to close the Seoul exhibit entirely. An international petition has been launched to demand her liberation. Referring to the Lotte Group which owns the aquarium, Jo Yak-gol, of the marine environmentalist group Hot Pink Dolphins, said: “Almost five years have passed since they said they would release her.” Bella’s early life and initial crusade In 2013, the beluga whale was captured in the Arctic Ocean off the Russian coast at the age of two. She was sold to the aquarium, housed in the mega-mall beneath the 555-metre-high Lotte World Tower, along with two other male belugas, Bello and Belli. In 2016, Bello died prematurely at the age of five, followed by the death of 12-year-old Belli in 2019. However, the average lifespan of beluga whales in the wild is 35 to 50 years. A public outcry started soon after, leading Lotte to pledge to release Bella following the second death and again in 2021. Nevertheless, such efforts have repeatedly stalled, for reasons like the Covid pandemic, but are seen more as token gestures. Also read: 66-year-old Florida man arrested after decapitated dog found in park days after adoption As things stand at the moment, Bella can be seen switching between aimless spinning and floating motionless in her scanty confines. The whales can grow to 5.5 metres (18ft) long but the tank is only 7 metres deep. “She lacks stimulation and is showing signs of a mental illness,” said Jo. Dr Valeria Vergara, the co-director of the Raincoast Conservation Foundation’s cetacean research programme, said belugas are highly intelligent and social. “They cooperate with each other to the point of helping raise each other’s young,” she said. “They have long lives, and, of course, they have a very complex communication system,” said the marine biologist, who has studied beluga whales for more than two decades. “Keeping such beings in captivity is simply unethical.” Bella is one of five captive belugas in South Korea, alongside one at Aqua Planet Yeosu and three others at Geoje Sea World. Until recently, the latter offered packages where visitors could pay to ride on the whales. But these have since been outlawed. The aquarium industry is thriving, in South Korea and Asia on the whole. Lotte’s aquarium in Seoul is one of the largest in the region, attracting millions of visitors since it opened in 2014. The way ahead for the beluga whale Last December, South Korea banned buying whales and dolphins for display. However, the law does not apply retroactively, implying that animals already in captivity, such as Bella, can be kept. Bella’s transfer to a seaside sanctuary is “the only ethical option”, according to Vergara. Having been removed from her natural habitat at such a young age, Bella could not survive in the open ocean. Belugas learn necessary skills such as hunting, migrating and communicating from their social groups. In a statement, Lotte World Aquarium said it was working to protect animal rights and was “ready to send the beluga whale at any time”. It said it was having discussions with a committee composed of the oceans and fisheries ministry, animal rights groups and whale experts to carry out Bella’s release “based on a scientific and practical plan”. It added that it was looking at a sanctuary in Iceland and planned sanctuaries in Norway and Canada as options. Amid the concurrent bureaucratic tangle and different offers from sanctuaries, Bella remains in her tank. Outside Lotte World Tower, the Hot Pink Dolphins group still protest, demanding: “Free Bella now!” (With inputs from agencies)

Activists launch ‘Free Bella’ campaign to save lonely beluga whale from Seoul mall

India will observe a one-day state mourning on Tuesday (May 21) as a mark of respect to Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who passed away in a helicopter crash, the Union Home Ministry announced.

The national flag will be flown at half-mast throughout the country on all buildings where it is regularly flown and there will be no official entertainment during the period.

"As a mark of respect to the departed dignitaries, the government of India has decided that there will be one day's state mourning on May 21 (Tuesday) throughout India," the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said.

"On the day of mourning, the national flag will be flown at half-mast throughout India on all buildings where the national flag is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment on the day," the statement further added.

Earlier, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences on the Iranian president's passing.

He took to his official X handle and wrote, "Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran. India stands with Iran in this time of sorrow."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran.…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1792418659803038064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Raisi died in a plane crash reported on Sunday (May 19) evening.&nbsp;

"The president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisi, had an accident while serving and performing his duty for the people of Iran and was martyred," stated the local Mehr news agency.

As per the report, the helicopter carrying Raisi met with an accident in the Jolfa region of East Azerbaijan province as it flew in bad weather conditions.

The accident took place in Dizmar's mountainous protected forest area near the town of Varzaghan, as reported by the official IRNA news agency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ebrahim-raisi-death-vp-mokhber-to-serve-as-interim-president-nuclear-negotiator-bagheri-as-acting-fm-of-iran-723510">Ebrahim Raisi death: VP Mokhber to serve as interim President, nuclear negotiator Bagheri as acting FM of Iran</a>

<h2>Iran announces 5 days of mourning</h2>

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei offered condolences to the people of his country and announced five days of public mourning for Raisi.

"I announce five days of public mourning and offer my condolences to the dear people of Iran," Khamenei said in a statement carried by the official news agency IRNA.

Meanwhile, Lebanon and Syria also announced three days of national mourning for Raisi and foreign minister who lost their lives in the crash.

"I can't tell you how sorry I am about this incident that happened. Especially that the foreign minister had become a friend," Lebanon's Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib told reporters on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

India will observe a one-day state mourning on Tuesday (May 21) as a mark of respect to Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who passed away in a helicopter crash, the Union Home Ministry announced.

India will observe a one-day state mourning on Tuesday (May 21) as a mark of respect to Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who passed away in a helicopter crash, the Union Home Ministry announced. The national flag will be flown at half-mast throughout the country on all buildings where it is regularly flown and there will be no official entertainment during the period. "As a mark of respect to the departed dignitaries, the government of India has decided that there will be one day's state mourning on May 21 (Tuesday) throughout India," the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said. "On the day of mourning, the national flag will be flown at half-mast throughout India on all buildings where the national flag is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment on the day," the statement further added. Earlier, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences on the Iranian president's passing. He took to his official X handle and wrote, "Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran. India stands with Iran in this time of sorrow." Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran.… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 20, 2024 × Raisi died in a plane crash reported on Sunday (May 19) evening. "The president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisi, had an accident while serving and performing his duty for the people of Iran and was martyred," stated the local Mehr news agency. As per the report, the helicopter carrying Raisi met with an accident in the Jolfa region of East Azerbaijan province as it flew in bad weather conditions. The accident took place in Dizmar's mountainous protected forest area near the town of Varzaghan, as reported by the official IRNA news agency. Also read: Ebrahim Raisi death: VP Mokhber to serve as interim President, nuclear negotiator Bagheri as acting FM of Iran Iran announces 5 days of mourning Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei offered condolences to the people of his country and announced five days of public mourning for Raisi. "I announce five days of public mourning and offer my condolences to the dear people of Iran," Khamenei said in a statement carried by the official news agency IRNA. Meanwhile, Lebanon and Syria also announced three days of national mourning for Raisi and foreign minister who lost their lives in the crash. "I can't tell you how sorry I am about this incident that happened. Especially that the foreign minister had become a friend," Lebanon's Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib told reporters on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

India declares one-day state mourning on Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s demise in helicopter crash

Two Chinese warships docked on Sunday (May 19) at Cambodia's commercial port as the two countries prepare for joint naval exercises.

The training ship Qijiguang and amphibious warfare ship Jinggangshan sailed into the Sihanoukville port as a part of the biggest-ever joint military drills.

There will be 15 days of land and sea exercises that would involve 760 Chinese Army personnel, around 1,300 Cambodians and 11 Cambodian vessels.

The Qijiguang carried a banner that read "Bring peace and friendship to meet good friends" as it progressed towards the port.

"We are ironclad friends," Chinese ambassador Wang Wentian told reporters on the shore, adding China-Cambodia military cooperation was "conducive to the security of both countries and to the security of the region."

China has been funding the refurbishment of a naval base at Ream, which was originally constructed using the funds contributed by the United States.

Earlier, two Chinese warships docked at Ream in the month of December for the very first time since the efforts began to extend the base.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-lawyers-up-in-arms-after-they-caught-judge-receiving-instructions-on-wechat-723093">Chinese lawyers up in arms after they caught judge receiving instructions on WeChat</a>

Washington alleges that Ream port could provide Beijing with a crucial strategic position on the Gulf of Thailand close to the disputed South China Sea.

Cambodian officials, in the year 2023, refuted claims that the 363-metre (1,190-foot) pier at Ream was aimed at docking aircraft carriers.

"Where the Chinese navy goes, we bring friendship, we bring cooperation, no others," Ambassador Wang said in response to questions being asked concerning Beijing's growing influence."

China, at the beginning of the drills on Thursday (May 16) unveiled its hardware including so-called "robodogs" -- remote-controlled four-legged robots with automatic rifles placed on their backs.

The development comes after China's top diplomat Wang Yi visited Cambodia in April to bolster ties between the two countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two Chinese warships docked on Sunday (May 19) at Cambodia's commercial port as the two countries prepare for joint naval exercises. The training ship Qijiguang and amphibious warfare ship Jinggangshan sailed into the Sihanoukville port as a part of the biggest-ever joint military drills.

Two Chinese warships docked on Sunday (May 19) at Cambodia's commercial port as the two countries prepare for joint naval exercises. The training ship Qijiguang and amphibious warfare ship Jinggangshan sailed into the Sihanoukville port as a part of the biggest-ever joint military drills. There will be 15 days of land and sea exercises that would involve 760 Chinese Army personnel, around 1,300 Cambodians and 11 Cambodian vessels. The Qijiguang carried a banner that read "Bring peace and friendship to meet good friends" as it progressed towards the port. "We are ironclad friends," Chinese ambassador Wang Wentian told reporters on the shore, adding China-Cambodia military cooperation was "conducive to the security of both countries and to the security of the region." China has been funding the refurbishment of a naval base at Ream, which was originally constructed using the funds contributed by the United States. Earlier, two Chinese warships docked at Ream in the month of December for the very first time since the efforts began to extend the base. Also read: Chinese lawyers up in arms after they caught judge receiving instructions on WeChat Washington alleges that Ream port could provide Beijing with a crucial strategic position on the Gulf of Thailand close to the disputed South China Sea. Cambodian officials, in the year 2023, refuted claims that the 363-metre (1,190-foot) pier at Ream was aimed at docking aircraft carriers. "Where the Chinese navy goes, we bring friendship, we bring cooperation, no others," Ambassador Wang said in response to questions being asked concerning Beijing's growing influence." China, at the beginning of the drills on Thursday (May 16) unveiled its hardware including so-called "robodogs" -- remote-controlled four-legged robots with automatic rifles placed on their backs. The development comes after China's top diplomat Wang Yi visited Cambodia in April to bolster ties between the two countries. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese warships dock in Cambodia for biggest-ever joint military drills

In a significant development, the Gujarat Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) arrested four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport on Monday afternoon (May 20).

All four of them reportedly hail from Sri Lanka and have ties with the Islamic State.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ahmedabad: Gujarat ATS arrests four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport. All four accused are Sri Lankan nationals. <a href="https://t.co/5kkwHjK9Gd">https://t.co/5kkwHjK9Gd</a> <a href="https://t.co/vbhh3esN7A">pic.twitter.com/vbhh3esN7A</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792504443382210829?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The accused were identified by the officials as Mohammad Nusrat, Mohammad Nufran, Mohammad Faris and Mohammad Razdin and all four of them were active members of the banned terror outfit.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Four ISIS terrorists arrested by Gujarat ATS in Ahmedabad <a href="https://t.co/RQuMnf9vi8">pic.twitter.com/RQuMnf9vi8</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792530806944223696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

"An information was received that they are coming to India to commit a terror attack," Gujarat DGP Vikash Sahay said.

The police official further stated that the terrorists had boarded a flight from Chennai, bound for Ahmedabad.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Gujarat ATS arrests four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport. All four accused are Sri Lankan nationals. 
 
(Photo source: Gujarat ATS) <a href="https://t.co/zsoA2PIWNH">pic.twitter.com/zsoA2PIWNH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792491614864392588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

"The arrests were made after analysing the information and list of passengers coming from south".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Gujarat ATS arrests four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport. All four accused are Sri Lankan nationals. 
 
(Photo source: Gujarat ATS) <a href="https://t.co/zsoA2PIWNH">pic.twitter.com/zsoA2PIWNH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792491614864392588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"All four of them are completely radicalised by the ISIS ideology and they are going to come to India to commit a terror attack. As per the information, they were going to reach Ahmedabad on May 18 or 19 either by railway or flight. Teams were formed and strategy was created based on the information received. Passenger lists of trains and flights coming from the south were analysed. All 4 of them were travelling from Chennai to Ahmedabad on the same PNR no. through an Indigo flight. Verification was done in Colombo too for confirmation," Gujarat DGP said at a press briefing.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ahmedabad: Gujarat DGP Vikash Sahay says, "Information was received that 4 people, namely, Mohammad Nusrat, Mohammad Nufran, Mohammad Faris and Mohammad Razdin. These 4 people are Sri Lankan nationals and are active members of the banned terror outfit Islamic State. All… <a href="https://t.co/7Vb74B2Yj3">https://t.co/7Vb74B2Yj3</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xm4httObhr">pic.twitter.com/Xm4httObhr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792513080095859076?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Gujarat ATS released a statement saying that the evidence showed the terrorists were committed to joining the terror outfit and "following the path shown by Abu Bakr Baghdadi".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ahmedabad: Gujarat ATS arrested four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport. All four accused are Sri Lankan nationals. 
 
"Evidences showing their commitment to join the proscribed terrorist organization Islamic State (IS), follow the path shown by Abu Bakr Baghdadi and to teach a… <a href="https://t.co/Gb8H5D9sC2">pic.twitter.com/Gb8H5D9sC2</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792523061948002762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

"Evidences showing their commitment to join the proscribed terrorist organization Islamic State (IS), follow the path shown by Abu Bakr Baghdadi and to teach a lesson to the attackers who commit atrocities against Muslim Community as well as to teach a lesson to Jews, Christians and&nbsp;members of BJP-RSS," said the statement.

Earlier, in Aug 2023, the ATS arrested three persons over their alleged connection to Al Qaeda. They were prima facie operating for a Bangladeshi handler to radicalise and recruit people for the banned terrorist organisation.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a significant development, the Gujarat Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) arrested four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport on Monday afternoon (May 20). All four of them reportedly hail from Sri Lanka and have ties with the Islamic State.

In a significant development, the Gujarat Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) arrested four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport on Monday afternoon (May 20). All four of them reportedly hail from Sri Lanka and have ties with the Islamic State. #WATCH | Ahmedabad: Gujarat ATS arrests four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport. All four accused are Sri Lankan nationals. https://t.co/5kkwHjK9Gd pic.twitter.com/vbhh3esN7A — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2024 × The accused were identified by the officials as Mohammad Nusrat, Mohammad Nufran, Mohammad Faris and Mohammad Razdin and all four of them were active members of the banned terror outfit. #WATCH | Four ISIS terrorists arrested by Gujarat ATS in Ahmedabad pic.twitter.com/RQuMnf9vi8 — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2024 × "An information was received that they are coming to India to commit a terror attack," Gujarat DGP Vikash Sahay said. The police official further stated that the terrorists had boarded a flight from Chennai, bound for Ahmedabad. Gujarat ATS arrests four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport. All four accused are Sri Lankan nationals. (Photo source: Gujarat ATS) pic.twitter.com/zsoA2PIWNH — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2024 × "The arrests were made after analysing the information and list of passengers coming from south". Gujarat ATS arrests four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport. All four accused are Sri Lankan nationals. (Photo source: Gujarat ATS) pic.twitter.com/zsoA2PIWNH — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2024 × "All four of them are completely radicalised by the ISIS ideology and they are going to come to India to commit a terror attack. As per the information, they were going to reach Ahmedabad on May 18 or 19 either by railway or flight. Teams were formed and strategy was created based on the information received. Passenger lists of trains and flights coming from the south were analysed. All 4 of them were travelling from Chennai to Ahmedabad on the same PNR no. through an Indigo flight. Verification was done in Colombo too for confirmation," Gujarat DGP said at a press briefing. #WATCH | Ahmedabad: Gujarat DGP Vikash Sahay says, "Information was received that 4 people, namely, Mohammad Nusrat, Mohammad Nufran, Mohammad Faris and Mohammad Razdin. These 4 people are Sri Lankan nationals and are active members of the banned terror outfit Islamic State. All… https://t.co/7Vb74B2Yj3 pic.twitter.com/Xm4httObhr — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2024 × Gujarat ATS released a statement saying that the evidence showed the terrorists were committed to joining the terror outfit and "following the path shown by Abu Bakr Baghdadi". Ahmedabad: Gujarat ATS arrested four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport. All four accused are Sri Lankan nationals. "Evidences showing their commitment to join the proscribed terrorist organization Islamic State (IS), follow the path shown by Abu Bakr Baghdadi and to teach a… pic.twitter.com/Gb8H5D9sC2 — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2024 × "Evidences showing their commitment to join the proscribed terrorist organization Islamic State (IS), follow the path shown by Abu Bakr Baghdadi and to teach a lesson to the attackers who commit atrocities against Muslim Community as well as to teach a lesson to Jews, Christians and members of BJP-RSS," said the statement. Earlier, in Aug 2023, the ATS arrested three persons over their alleged connection to Al Qaeda. They were prima facie operating for a Bangladeshi handler to radicalise and recruit people for the banned terrorist organisation. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Gujarat Anti-Terror Squad arrests four ISIS terrorists at Ahmedabad airport

An Indian-origin woman residing in the United States was arrested in connection with a multi-state gold bar scam in which individuals guised as federal agents tricked people into buying gold bullion only to hand it over to secure storage and in turn be cheated upon.

The scam came to light after 42-year-old Shweta Patel was taken into police custody on May 9.

The scam made a man from Bradenton, Florida suffer a huge loss of a whopping $1.5 million, as per TOI report.

<h2>The sequence of events&nbsp;</h2>

The fraud began earlier this year, in the month of February when two imposters, pretending to be federal agents, showed up at the victim's house with a fake arrest warrant alleging financial irregularities.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-regenerate-face-of-ancient-egyptian-monarch-the-richest-man-in-history-722594">Scientists regenerate face of ancient Egyptian monarch, 'the richest man in history'</a>

Following this, they invited their supervisor who somehow underlined the victim's potential emphasising how he could serve society better in ways other than being locked up.

Then in March, this particular conman guised as a "supervisor" communicated with the victim on a daily basis in order to build up trust. He then eventually convinced the victim into thinking that he was a part of a sting operation aimed at targeting social security fraud.

The victim was then tricked into converting his retirement savings, worth $1.5 million into gold bars.

After this, Shweta Patel, posing as a police officer, took the gold bars from his place and disappeared.

Reportedly, such scams are common among illegal immigrants hailing from countries like India and China.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian-origin woman residing in the United States was arrested in connection with a multi-state gold bar scam in which individuals guised as federal agents tricked people into buying gold bullion only to hand it over to secure storage and in turn be cheated upon.

An Indian-origin woman residing in the United States was arrested in connection with a multi-state gold bar scam in which individuals guised as federal agents tricked people into buying gold bullion only to hand it over to secure storage and in turn be cheated upon. The scam came to light after 42-year-old Shweta Patel was taken into police custody on May 9. The scam made a man from Bradenton, Florida suffer a huge loss of a whopping $1.5 million, as per TOI report. The sequence of events The fraud began earlier this year, in the month of February when two imposters, pretending to be federal agents, showed up at the victim's house with a fake arrest warrant alleging financial irregularities. Also read: Scientists regenerate face of ancient Egyptian monarch, 'the richest man in history' Following this, they invited their supervisor who somehow underlined the victim's potential emphasising how he could serve society better in ways other than being locked up. Then in March, this particular conman guised as a "supervisor" communicated with the victim on a daily basis in order to build up trust. He then eventually convinced the victim into thinking that he was a part of a sting operation aimed at targeting social security fraud. The victim was then tricked into converting his retirement savings, worth $1.5 million into gold bars. After this, Shweta Patel, posing as a police officer, took the gold bars from his place and disappeared. Reportedly, such scams are common among illegal immigrants hailing from countries like India and China. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Indian-origin woman posing as federal agent dupes man of $1.5 million

An armed gang on Saturday (May 18) staged a robbery in France's capital Paris which was aimed at looting the exclusive Harry Winston boutique, also known as “Jeweler to the Stars.”&nbsp;

As per local media reports, the robbers snatched jewellery from a shop near the world-famous Champs Elysees avenue, which is one of the poshest areas in the city, before speeding away on motorbikes.

The police said that the team of robbers, with one of them armed with a long weapon, may have escaped with millions of euros in loot.

The footage of the incident broadcasted by BFM-TV showed the individuals dressed in black. They fired a gunshot outside the shop on Avenue Montaigne, news agency AFP reported citing a police source familiar with the case.

The reports stated that the robbery occurred at around 11:45 am (0945 GMT).

It had been a "warning shot" with "no one injured", the source familiar with the case added.

The Paris prosecutor's office overseeing the investigation into the incident confirmed that the location of the robbery was Avenue Montaigne. This is where Harry Winston's by-appointment store is located.

According to the source, it could be "several days" before the exact value of the robbery can be ascertained.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-fatally-shoot-man-attempting-to-set-fire-to-synagogue-in-france-minister-722383">Also read: Police kill man trying to burn down synagogue in France</a>

Earlier, in the year 2007-08, over 900 items estimated at a whopping 78.9 million ($86 million at today's prices) were robbed in what is called one of the largest such thefts that took place anywhere in the world.

A Paris court in the year 2015 sentenced eight men to prison terms from nine months to 15 years over the robbery.&nbsp;

The incident also comes after highly organised gunmen freed a convict from a prison convoy in northern France, claiming the lives of two guards.

Finding and arresting criminals is one of the main priorities for the government in order to showcase its seriousness towards maintaining public order as it gears up for European elections scheduled in June and the Olympic Games in July-August.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An armed gang on Saturday (May 18) staged a robbery in France's capital Paris which was aimed at looting the exclusive Harry Winston boutique, also known as “Jeweler to the Stars.

An armed gang on Saturday (May 18) staged a robbery in France's capital Paris which was aimed at looting the exclusive Harry Winston boutique, also known as “Jeweler to the Stars.” As per local media reports, the robbers snatched jewellery from a shop near the world-famous Champs Elysees avenue, which is one of the poshest areas in the city, before speeding away on motorbikes. The police said that the team of robbers, with one of them armed with a long weapon, may have escaped with millions of euros in loot. The footage of the incident broadcasted by BFM-TV showed the individuals dressed in black. They fired a gunshot outside the shop on Avenue Montaigne, news agency AFP reported citing a police source familiar with the case. The reports stated that the robbery occurred at around 11:45 am (0945 GMT). It had been a "warning shot" with "no one injured", the source familiar with the case added. The Paris prosecutor's office overseeing the investigation into the incident confirmed that the location of the robbery was Avenue Montaigne. This is where Harry Winston's by-appointment store is located. According to the source, it could be "several days" before the exact value of the robbery can be ascertained. Also read: Police kill man trying to burn down synagogue in France Earlier, in the year 2007-08, over 900 items estimated at a whopping 78.9 million ($86 million at today's prices) were robbed in what is called one of the largest such thefts that took place anywhere in the world. A Paris court in the year 2015 sentenced eight men to prison terms from nine months to 15 years over the robbery. The incident also comes after highly organised gunmen freed a convict from a prison convoy in northern France, claiming the lives of two guards. Finding and arresting criminals is one of the main priorities for the government in order to showcase its seriousness towards maintaining public order as it gears up for European elections scheduled in June and the Olympic Games in July-August. (With inputs from agencies)

Gang of armed robbers steal jewellery worth millions of euros in Paris

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (May 19) called for an immediate ceasefire in war-torn Gaza and said that he was making continuous efforts to ensure "lasting, durable peace" in the region that would also include the creation of a Palestinian state.

"This is one of the hardest, most complicated problems in the world. There's nothing easy about it," said Biden while addressing students at a graduation ceremony at the former university of civil rights icon Martin Luther King, Jr.

"I know it angers and frustrates many of you, including my family, but most of all, I know it breaks your heart. It breaks mine as well."

The US president said that he was pushing for an "immediate ceasefire to stop the fighting" and expressed his willingness to bring back all the hostages held captive by Hamas.

He then said that he was working towards achieving "lasting, durable peace" in the wider Middle East that would also eventually lead to an independent Palestinian state, which he termed as the "only solution."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-20-killed-after-israeli-strike-on-nuseirat-refugee-camp-in-central-gaza-723049">Death toll after Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp rises to 31</a>

<h2>'I support peaceful non-violent protest,' says Biden</h2>

The 81-year-old leader further reacting to the Gaza protests that have taken over several universities in the country, said that he would pay attention to "non-violent" demonstrations and further stated that everyone's voices should be heard.

"I support peaceful non-violent protest. Your voices should be heard, and I promise you I hear them," Biden told a graduation ceremony at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, which went ahead without disruption.

Biden's remarks come amid US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit to Saudi Arabia and Israel who is pushing for a ceasefire as well as a normalization deal between the two countries.&nbsp;

Sullivan, earlier in the day, held talks with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the eastern Saudi city of Dhahran.

"The semi-final version of the draft strategic agreements between the Kingdom and the United States of America, which are almost being finalised... were discussed," the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) said.

The meeting between the officials also involved talks around "what is being worked on between the two sides on the Palestinian issue to find a credible path towards a two-state solution", along with endeavours to put an end to the ongoing war in Gaza and streamline the distribution of humanitarian aid in the region. &nbsp;

The Biden administration has actively chased the 'mega-deal' where Washington has agreed to give benefits to Saudi Arabia including a defence pact and assistance with a civilian nuclear programme with uranium enrichment capacity in exchange for providing first-ever recognition of Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (May 19) called for an immediate ceasefire in war-torn Gaza and said that he was making continuous efforts to ensure "lasting, durable peace" in the region that would also include the creation of a Palestinian state.

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (May 19) called for an immediate ceasefire in war-torn Gaza and said that he was making continuous efforts to ensure "lasting, durable peace" in the region that would also include the creation of a Palestinian state. "This is one of the hardest, most complicated problems in the world. There's nothing easy about it," said Biden while addressing students at a graduation ceremony at the former university of civil rights icon Martin Luther King, Jr. "I know it angers and frustrates many of you, including my family, but most of all, I know it breaks your heart. It breaks mine as well." The US president said that he was pushing for an "immediate ceasefire to stop the fighting" and expressed his willingness to bring back all the hostages held captive by Hamas. He then said that he was working towards achieving "lasting, durable peace" in the wider Middle East that would also eventually lead to an independent Palestinian state, which he termed as the "only solution." Also read: Death toll after Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp rises to 31 'I support peaceful non-violent protest,' says Biden The 81-year-old leader further reacting to the Gaza protests that have taken over several universities in the country, said that he would pay attention to "non-violent" demonstrations and further stated that everyone's voices should be heard. "I support peaceful non-violent protest. Your voices should be heard, and I promise you I hear them," Biden told a graduation ceremony at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, which went ahead without disruption. Biden's remarks come amid US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit to Saudi Arabia and Israel who is pushing for a ceasefire as well as a normalization deal between the two countries. Sullivan, earlier in the day, held talks with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the eastern Saudi city of Dhahran. "The semi-final version of the draft strategic agreements between the Kingdom and the United States of America, which are almost being finalised... were discussed," the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) said. The meeting between the officials also involved talks around "what is being worked on between the two sides on the Palestinian issue to find a credible path towards a two-state solution", along with endeavours to put an end to the ongoing war in Gaza and streamline the distribution of humanitarian aid in the region. The Biden administration has actively chased the 'mega-deal' where Washington has agreed to give benefits to Saudi Arabia including a defence pact and assistance with a civilian nuclear programme with uranium enrichment capacity in exchange for providing first-ever recognition of Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Biden says pushing for ‘lasting, durable peace’ in Middle East

A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian crashed on Sunday (May 19) as it was crossing a mountainous terrain, an Iranian official told the news agency Reuters. In other news, the death toll after an Israeli airstrike targeted a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31, said Gaza's civil defence agency on Sunday (May 19). This comes a day after Israeli troops and tanks pushed into parts of congested northern Gaza killing and wounding dozens of Palestinians, reported Reuters citing medics and residents. &nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/helicopter-accompanying-iranian-president-ebrahim-raisi-involved-in-incident-723114">Iranian President Raisi’s helicopter crashes, fog hampers rescue efforts</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/19/432455-iranian-president-ebrahim-raisi.png?imwidth=400" />

The official said the lives of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the foreign minister were "at risk following the helicopter crash". "We are still hopeful but information coming from the crash site is very concerning," said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-20-killed-after-israeli-strike-on-nuseirat-refugee-camp-in-central-gaza-723049">Death toll after Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp rises to 31</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/19/432415-yearender-2023-73.png?imwidth=400" />

Israeli airstrike targeting a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31. "The civil defence crew were able to recover 31 martyrs and 20 wounded from a house belonging to the Hassan family, which was targeted by the Israeli occupation forces in the Nuseirat camp," Gaza civil defence agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told journalists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-blue-origins-new-shepard-ns-rocket-lifts-off-with-six-crew-on-board-including-one-indian-723142">Blue Origin’s NS rocket lifts off with six crew on board, including one Indian</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/19/432467-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

US billionaire Jeff Bezos-backed aerospace company Blue Origin's New Shepard (NS) rocket lifted off Sunday (May 19) with six crew members, including one Indian.&nbsp;The mission, named NS-25, departed from Launch Site One in West Texas.&nbsp;Gopi Thotakura, from the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, has thus become the first Indian space tourist. He is a commercial jet pilot and entrepreneur.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-hits-out-at-mamata-banerjee-says-tmc-threatening-ramakrishna-mission-to-please-vote-bank-723087">PM Modi slams TMC, accuses it of ‘questioning character of Sandeshkhali women’</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/19/432438-succession-2024-05-19t165818208.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 19) lashed out at Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the Sandeshkhali incident stating that the party questioned the “characters of the sisters of Sandeshkhali” just to save their 'Shahjahan'.&nbsp;He stated that when the TMC came to power, it claimed to safeguard Maa, Maati, and Manush but failed to do so in due course of time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/slovak-pm-robert-ficos-life-no-longer-in-danger-after-assassination-attempt-723105">Slovak PM Robert Fico’s life no longer in danger after assassination attempt</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/19/432441-prime-minister-robert-fico-2.png?imwidth=400" />

Robert Fico's deputy said on Sunday (May 19) that the Slovak prime minister is no longer in immediate danger but is still in a serious condition. On Wednesday, Fico was injured in an assassination attempt when he was greeting the supporters.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-we-have-seen-the-last-of-ms-dhoni-to-retire-heres-what-former-csk-batter-says-723139">IPL 2024: Dhoni to retire? Here's what former CSK batter says</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/20/426377-untitled-design-2024-04-20t170112927.png?imwidth=400" />

The speculation around Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni's IPL retirement is rife, especially after CSK failed to make it to the playoffs in the ongoing 2024 season. CSK were ousted after losing to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by 27 runs on Saturday (May 18).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-lawyers-up-in-arms-after-they-caught-judge-receiving-instructions-on-wechat-723093">Chinese lawyers up in arms after they caught judge receiving instructions on WeChat</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/19/432443-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

Lawyers across China are up in arms over what they say&nbsp;is 'blatant sabotage'&nbsp;of the legal system as they stage a rare protest on Chinese social media.&nbsp;This&nbsp;happened after advocates at the Tianjun county court in Haixi&nbsp;Mongol&nbsp;caught the presiding judge red-handed receiving real-time instructions on WeChat group, a Chinese messaging app.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shani-louks-body-retyurns-from-gaza-emotional-parents-react-723065">Israeli hostage Shani Louk’s body returns from Gaza; emotional parents react</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/18/432175-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" />

German-Israeli Shani Louk's father says that finally laying his daughter to rest will be a gift after her body was recovered from Gaza, months after she was killed in Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-bjp-has-started-operation-jhaadu-so-that-aap-doesnt-become-big-says-kejriwal-723031">Lok Sabha polls: BJP started ‘Operation Jhaadu’ so that AAP doesn’t grow, become a challenge, says Kejriwal</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/19/432404-untitled-design-4.png?imwidth=400" />

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday&nbsp;(May 19) that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has started "Operation Jhaadu" (Operation Broom) to ensure the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) doesn't grow big and become a challenge to the saffron party.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-selena-gomez-paints-cannes-red-in-custm-giambattista-valli-see-pics-723128">Selena Gomez paints Cannes red in a custom Giambattista Valli; see pics</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/19/432460-untitled-design-2024-05-19t191043781.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Selena Gomez returned to Cannes 2024 to attend the&nbsp;Emilia Perez&nbsp;photocall on Sunday (May 19). The 31-year-old singer and actress looked stunning in a custom Giambattista Valli haute couture. The diva smiled at the paps and flaunted her ensemble before entering the venue to attend the event.

A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian crashed on Sunday (May 19) as it was crossing a mountainous terrain, an Iranian official told the news agency Reuters.

A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian crashed on Sunday (May 19) as it was crossing a mountainous terrain, an Iranian official told the news agency Reuters. In other news, the death toll after an Israeli airstrike targeted a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31, said Gaza's civil defence agency on Sunday (May 19). This comes a day after Israeli troops and tanks pushed into parts of congested northern Gaza killing and wounding dozens of Palestinians, reported Reuters citing medics and residents. Click on the headlines to read more. Iranian President Raisi’s helicopter crashes, fog hampers rescue efforts The official said the lives of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the foreign minister were "at risk following the helicopter crash". "We are still hopeful but information coming from the crash site is very concerning," said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Death toll after Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp rises to 31 Israeli airstrike targeting a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31. "The civil defence crew were able to recover 31 martyrs and 20 wounded from a house belonging to the Hassan family, which was targeted by the Israeli occupation forces in the Nuseirat camp," Gaza civil defence agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told journalists. Blue Origin’s NS rocket lifts off with six crew on board, including one Indian US billionaire Jeff Bezos-backed aerospace company Blue Origin's New Shepard (NS) rocket lifted off Sunday (May 19) with six crew members, including one Indian. The mission, named NS-25, departed from Launch Site One in West Texas. Gopi Thotakura, from the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, has thus become the first Indian space tourist. He is a commercial jet pilot and entrepreneur. PM Modi slams TMC, accuses it of ‘questioning character of Sandeshkhali women’ Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 19) lashed out at Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the Sandeshkhali incident stating that the party questioned the “characters of the sisters of Sandeshkhali” just to save their 'Shahjahan'. He stated that when the TMC came to power, it claimed to safeguard Maa, Maati, and Manush but failed to do so in due course of time. Slovak PM Robert Fico’s life no longer in danger after assassination attempt Robert Fico's deputy said on Sunday (May 19) that the Slovak prime minister is no longer in immediate danger but is still in a serious condition. On Wednesday, Fico was injured in an assassination attempt when he was greeting the supporters. IPL 2024: Dhoni to retire? Here's what former CSK batter says The speculation around Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni's IPL retirement is rife, especially after CSK failed to make it to the playoffs in the ongoing 2024 season. CSK were ousted after losing to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by 27 runs on Saturday (May 18). Chinese lawyers up in arms after they caught judge receiving instructions on WeChat Lawyers across China are up in arms over what they say is 'blatant sabotage' of the legal system as they stage a rare protest on Chinese social media. This happened after advocates at the Tianjun county court in Haixi Mongol caught the presiding judge red-handed receiving real-time instructions on WeChat group, a Chinese messaging app. Israeli hostage Shani Louk’s body returns from Gaza; emotional parents react German-Israeli Shani Louk's father says that finally laying his daughter to rest will be a gift after her body was recovered from Gaza, months after she was killed in Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. Lok Sabha polls: BJP started ‘Operation Jhaadu’ so that AAP doesn’t grow, become a challenge, says Kejriwal Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday (May 19) that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has started "Operation Jhaadu" (Operation Broom) to ensure the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) doesn't grow big and become a challenge to the saffron party. Selena Gomez paints Cannes red in a custom Giambattista Valli; see pics Selena Gomez returned to Cannes 2024 to attend the Emilia Perez photocall on Sunday (May 19). The 31-year-old singer and actress looked stunning in a custom Giambattista Valli haute couture. The diva smiled at the paps and flaunted her ensemble before entering the venue to attend the event.

Top 10 world news: Iranian President Raisi’s helicopter crashes; Slovak PM’s life out of danger; and more

Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler and United States President Joe Biden's top aide have reportedly held talks around a "semi-final" version of a deal that is expected to strengthen the security ties.

The meeting involved discussions between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security advisor, in the eastern Saudi city of Dhahran, the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Sunday (May 19).

Sullivan arrived in Israel on Sunday for talks surrounding the ongoing war in Gaza.

"The semi-final version of the draft strategic agreements between the Kingdom and the United States of America, which are almost being finalised... were discussed," SPA said.

The meeting between the officials also involved talks around "what is being worked on between the two sides on the Palestinian issue to find a credible path towards a two-state solution", along with endeavours to put an end to the ongoing war in Gaza and streamline the distribution of humanitarian aid in the region. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whitewashed-words-netanyahus-office-hits-back-at-gantzs-ultimatum-722944">Whitewashed words: Netanyahu's office hits back at Gantz's 'ultimatum'</a>

The Biden administration has actively chased the 'mega-deal' where Washington has agreed to give benefits to Saudi Arabia including a defence pact and assistance with a civilian nuclear programme with uranium enrichment capacity in exchange for providing first-ever recognition of Israel.

Earlier in the month of September, Prince Mohammed in an interview with the US network Fox News said that "every day we get closer" to a deal to normalise ties. This was before Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel.

After the Palestinian militant group's Oct 7 assault, the US had accused Hamas of derailing the efforts to normalise ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

"It wouldn't be a surprise that part of the motivation may have been to disrupt efforts to bring Saudi Arabia and Israel together, along with other countries that may be interested in normalising relations with Israel," the US Secretary of State had said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler and United States President Joe Biden's top aide have reportedly held talks around a "semi-final" version of a deal that is expected to strengthen the security ties.

Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler and United States President Joe Biden's top aide have reportedly held talks around a "semi-final" version of a deal that is expected to strengthen the security ties. The meeting involved discussions between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security advisor, in the eastern Saudi city of Dhahran, the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Sunday (May 19). Sullivan arrived in Israel on Sunday for talks surrounding the ongoing war in Gaza. "The semi-final version of the draft strategic agreements between the Kingdom and the United States of America, which are almost being finalised... were discussed," SPA said. The meeting between the officials also involved talks around "what is being worked on between the two sides on the Palestinian issue to find a credible path towards a two-state solution", along with endeavours to put an end to the ongoing war in Gaza and streamline the distribution of humanitarian aid in the region. Also read: Whitewashed words: Netanyahu's office hits back at Gantz's 'ultimatum' The Biden administration has actively chased the 'mega-deal' where Washington has agreed to give benefits to Saudi Arabia including a defence pact and assistance with a civilian nuclear programme with uranium enrichment capacity in exchange for providing first-ever recognition of Israel. Earlier in the month of September, Prince Mohammed in an interview with the US network Fox News said that "every day we get closer" to a deal to normalise ties. This was before Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel. After the Palestinian militant group's Oct 7 assault, the US had accused Hamas of derailing the efforts to normalise ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel. "It wouldn't be a surprise that part of the motivation may have been to disrupt efforts to bring Saudi Arabia and Israel together, along with other countries that may be interested in normalising relations with Israel," the US Secretary of State had said. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi crown prince and US national security adviser discuss ‘semi-final’ version of security deal

A stampede-like situation erupted in Prayagraj's Phulpur constituency when the crowd broke the barricades and almost approached the dais which forced Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav to cut short their public meeting.

The workers of both parties went out of control and tried to get to the stage to meet Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav. The situation worsened when the crowd barged through the barricades making it difficult for the police to contain the mob.

Gandhi and Yadav did not address the people and had to abruptly exit the campaign rally which was organised in support of Amarnath Maurya, who is contesting from the Phulpur Lok Sabha seat on an SP ticket.

Explaining the situation, Congress leader Rewati Raman Singh said, "The crowd had become too big, and there weren't enough police officers, which caused the crowd to become uncontrollable and rush towards the stage. As a result, Akhilesh Ji and Rahul Ji had to leave without giving their speeches."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh: A stampede-like situation took place in the joint public meeting of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav at Phulpur constituency, in Prayagraj. 
 
Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav left the public meeting without addressing the… <a href="https://t.co/fPW2tgaWOP">pic.twitter.com/fPW2tgaWOP</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792138238410506344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-kharge-accuses-pm-modi-of-provoking-people-calls-on-ed-to-take-action-722814">Lok Sabha polls: Kharge accuses PM Modi of ‘provoking’ people, calls on ED to take action</a>

Singh said that the joint rally highlighted the strategic alliance between Congress and the Samajwadi Party.

"This is a strategy because both are in an alliance. The Samajwadi Party and Congress have an alliance," he said.

He then reacted to BJP's claim of winning more than 400 seats in the elections saying that such kinds of rallies showed what people exactly want.

"These rallies show what the people want. These people intend to change the Constitution, and they have already said so, which is why they are shouting '400 Paar'. The people themselves are fighting this election to save the Constitution and to protect reservations," Singh remarked.

The polling in the Phulpur constituency will be conducted on May 25, which is the sixth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha&nbsp;elections.

The Samajwadi Party (SP) is contesting the Phulpur Lok Sabha seat in alliance with the Congress party on a 63:17 formula.

SP's Amarnath Maurya is in fray against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP's) Praveen Patel.

(With inputs from agencies)

A stampede-like situation erupted in Prayagraj's Phulpur constituency when the crowd broke the barricades and almost approached the dais which forced Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav to cut short their public meeting.

A stampede-like situation erupted in Prayagraj's Phulpur constituency when the crowd broke the barricades and almost approached the dais which forced Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav to cut short their public meeting. The workers of both parties went out of control and tried to get to the stage to meet Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav. The situation worsened when the crowd barged through the barricades making it difficult for the police to contain the mob. Gandhi and Yadav did not address the people and had to abruptly exit the campaign rally which was organised in support of Amarnath Maurya, who is contesting from the Phulpur Lok Sabha seat on an SP ticket. Explaining the situation, Congress leader Rewati Raman Singh said, "The crowd had become too big, and there weren't enough police officers, which caused the crowd to become uncontrollable and rush towards the stage. As a result, Akhilesh Ji and Rahul Ji had to leave without giving their speeches." #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh: A stampede-like situation took place in the joint public meeting of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav at Phulpur constituency, in Prayagraj. Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav left the public meeting without addressing the… pic.twitter.com/fPW2tgaWOP — ANI (@ANI) May 19, 2024 × Also read: Lok Sabha polls: Kharge accuses PM Modi of ‘provoking’ people, calls on ED to take action Singh said that the joint rally highlighted the strategic alliance between Congress and the Samajwadi Party. "This is a strategy because both are in an alliance. The Samajwadi Party and Congress have an alliance," he said. He then reacted to BJP's claim of winning more than 400 seats in the elections saying that such kinds of rallies showed what people exactly want. "These rallies show what the people want. These people intend to change the Constitution, and they have already said so, which is why they are shouting '400 Paar'. The people themselves are fighting this election to save the Constitution and to protect reservations," Singh remarked. The polling in the Phulpur constituency will be conducted on May 25, which is the sixth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The Samajwadi Party (SP) is contesting the Phulpur Lok Sabha seat in alliance with the Congress party on a 63:17 formula. SP's Amarnath Maurya is in fray against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP's) Praveen Patel. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav abruptly exit election rally in UP’s Phulpur as crowd turns uncontrollable

A British court could give a final decision on Monday on whether WikiLeaks&nbsp;founder Julian Assange should be extradited to the United States over the mass leak of secret US&nbsp; documents, the culmination of 13 years of legal battles and detentions.

Two judges at the High Court in London are set to rule on whether the court is satisfied by U.S. assurances that Assange, 52, would not face the death penalty and could rely on the First Amendment right to free speech if he faced a US&nbsp;trial for spying.

Assange's legal team says he could be on a plane across the Atlantic within 24 hours of the decision, could be released from jail, or his case could yet again be bogged down in months of legal battles.

"I have the sense that anything could happen at this stage," his wife Stella said last week. "Julian could be extradited, or he could be freed."

She said her husband hoped to be in court for the crucial hearing.

WikiLeaks released hundreds of thousands of classified US&nbsp;military documents on Washington's wars in Afghanistan and Iraq - the largest security breaches of their kind in U.S. military history - along with swathes of diplomatic cables.

In April 2010, it published a classified video showing a 2007 US&nbsp;helicopter attack that killed a dozen people in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, including two Reuters news staff.

The U.S. authorities want to put the Australian-born Assange on trial over 18 charges, nearly all under the Espionage Act, saying his actions with WikiLeaks were reckless, damaged national security, and endangered the lives of agents.

His many global supporters call the prosecution a travesty, an assault on journalism and free speech, and revenge for causing embarrassment. Calls for the case to be dropped have ranged from human rights groups and some media bodies, to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other political leaders.

DETAINED SINCE 2010

Assange was first arrested in Britain in 2010 on a Swedish warrant over sex crime allegations that were later dropped. Since then he has been variously under house arrest, holed up in Ecuador's embassy in London for seven years, and held since 2019 in Belmarsh top security jail, latterly while he waited a ruling on his extradition.

"Every day since the seventh of December 2010 he has been in one form of detention or another," said Stella Assange, who was originally part of his legal team and married him in Belmarsh in 2022.

If the High Court rules the extradition can go ahead, Assange's legal avenues in Britain are exhausted, and his lawyers will immediately turn to the European Court of Human Rights to seek an emergency injunction blocking deportation pending a full hearing by that court into his case at a later date.

On the other hand, if the judges reject the U.S. submissions, then he will have permission to appeal his extradition case on three grounds, and that might not be heard until next year.

It is also possible the judges could decide that Monday's hearing should consider not just whether he can appeal but also the substance of that appeal. If they find in his favour in those circumstances, he could be released.

Stella Assange said that whatever the outcome she would continue to fight for his liberty. If he is freed she plans to follow him to Australia or wherever he was safe. If he is extradited, she said all the psychiatric evidence presented at court had concluded he was at very serious risk of suicide.

"We live from day to day, from week to week, from decision to decision. This is a way that we've been living for years and years," she told Reuters.

"This is just not a way to live - it's so cruel. And I can't prepare for his extradition - how could I? But if he's extradited, then I'll do whatever I can, and our family is going to fight for him until he's free."

A British court could give a final decision on Monday on whether WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange should be extradited to the United States over the mass leak of secret US documents, the culmination of 13 years of legal battles and detentions.

A British court could give a final decision on Monday on whether WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange should be extradited to the United States over the mass leak of secret US documents, the culmination of 13 years of legal battles and detentions. Two judges at the High Court in London are set to rule on whether the court is satisfied by U.S. assurances that Assange, 52, would not face the death penalty and could rely on the First Amendment right to free speech if he faced a US trial for spying. Assange's legal team says he could be on a plane across the Atlantic within 24 hours of the decision, could be released from jail, or his case could yet again be bogged down in months of legal battles. "I have the sense that anything could happen at this stage," his wife Stella said last week. "Julian could be extradited, or he could be freed." She said her husband hoped to be in court for the crucial hearing. WikiLeaks released hundreds of thousands of classified US military documents on Washington's wars in Afghanistan and Iraq - the largest security breaches of their kind in U.S. military history - along with swathes of diplomatic cables. In April 2010, it published a classified video showing a 2007 US helicopter attack that killed a dozen people in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, including two Reuters news staff. The U.S. authorities want to put the Australian-born Assange on trial over 18 charges, nearly all under the Espionage Act, saying his actions with WikiLeaks were reckless, damaged national security, and endangered the lives of agents. His many global supporters call the prosecution a travesty, an assault on journalism and free speech, and revenge for causing embarrassment. Calls for the case to be dropped have ranged from human rights groups and some media bodies, to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other political leaders. DETAINED SINCE 2010 Assange was first arrested in Britain in 2010 on a Swedish warrant over sex crime allegations that were later dropped. Since then he has been variously under house arrest, holed up in Ecuador's embassy in London for seven years, and held since 2019 in Belmarsh top security jail, latterly while he waited a ruling on his extradition. "Every day since the seventh of December 2010 he has been in one form of detention or another," said Stella Assange, who was originally part of his legal team and married him in Belmarsh in 2022. If the High Court rules the extradition can go ahead, Assange's legal avenues in Britain are exhausted, and his lawyers will immediately turn to the European Court of Human Rights to seek an emergency injunction blocking deportation pending a full hearing by that court into his case at a later date. On the other hand, if the judges reject the U.S. submissions, then he will have permission to appeal his extradition case on three grounds, and that might not be heard until next year. It is also possible the judges could decide that Monday's hearing should consider not just whether he can appeal but also the substance of that appeal. If they find in his favour in those circumstances, he could be released. Stella Assange said that whatever the outcome she would continue to fight for his liberty. If he is freed she plans to follow him to Australia or wherever he was safe. If he is extradited, she said all the psychiatric evidence presented at court had concluded he was at very serious risk of suicide. "We live from day to day, from week to week, from decision to decision. This is a way that we've been living for years and years," she told Reuters. "This is just not a way to live - it's so cruel. And I can't prepare for his extradition - how could I? But if he's extradited, then I'll do whatever I can, and our family is going to fight for him until he's free."

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange faces US extradition judgment day

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Navya Beri

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

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