The Election Commission on Saturday (Apr 20) announced new polling dates for 11 polling stations in the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency.

Manipur's chief electoral officer said that the voting would be held again on Monday (Apr 22).

The development comes after the Election Commission issued a directive declaring the voting held at these polling stations as null and void.

The official said that the polling stations that were affected by the violence during the first phase of elections are, Moirangkampu Sajeb and Thongam Leikai in the Khurai constituency, four in Kshetrigao and one in Thongju in Imphal East district and three in Uripok and one in Konthoujam in Imphal West district.

On Friday (Apr 19), incidents of violence were reported at some of the polling booths in conflict-torn Manipur where some miscreants opened fire and even destroyed EVMs.

Earlier today. the Congress demanded repoll in 47 polling stations claiming that the polling booths were seized and the elections were rigged.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/lok-sabha-elections-2024-shots-fired-at-manipur-polling-booth-three-injured-712927">Also read:&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Shots fired near polling booth in Manipur, three injured</a>

Manipur Congress president K Meghachandra stated that the party had issued a complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer calling for a repoll in 36 polling stations in the Inner Manipur constituency and 11 in the Outer Manipur constituency.

<h2>Voter turnout in Manipur</h2>

Manipur recorded a voter turnout of 72 per cent in the two Lok Sabha constituencies - Inner Manipur and Outer Manipur - on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2024-nearly-60-voter-turnout-by-5-pm-west-bengal-leads-bihar-records-lowest-turnout-713110">Also read: Lok Sabha Polls 2024: Nearly 64% voter turnout recorded; West Bengal leads, Bihar records lowest turnout</a>

Until 9:00 am approximately 12.6% of the nearly 15.44 lakh voters in Manipur impacted by ethnic violence exercised their right to vote for the two Lok Sabha seats. The Inner Manipur constituency had 13. 82% turnout, while Outer Manipur witnessed 11. 57% turnout in the first two hours of voting.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Election Commission on Saturday (Apr 20) announced new polling dates for 11 polling stations in the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency. Manipur's chief electoral officer said that the voting would be held again on Monday (Apr 22).

The Election Commission on Saturday (Apr 20) announced new polling dates for 11 polling stations in the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency. Manipur's chief electoral officer said that the voting would be held again on Monday (Apr 22). The development comes after the Election Commission issued a directive declaring the voting held at these polling stations as null and void. The official said that the polling stations that were affected by the violence during the first phase of elections are, Moirangkampu Sajeb and Thongam Leikai in the Khurai constituency, four in Kshetrigao and one in Thongju in Imphal East district and three in Uripok and one in Konthoujam in Imphal West district. On Friday (Apr 19), incidents of violence were reported at some of the polling booths in conflict-torn Manipur where some miscreants opened fire and even destroyed EVMs. Earlier today. the Congress demanded repoll in 47 polling stations claiming that the polling booths were seized and the elections were rigged. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Shots fired near polling booth in Manipur, three injured Manipur Congress president K Meghachandra stated that the party had issued a complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer calling for a repoll in 36 polling stations in the Inner Manipur constituency and 11 in the Outer Manipur constituency. Voter turnout in Manipur Manipur recorded a voter turnout of 72 per cent in the two Lok Sabha constituencies - Inner Manipur and Outer Manipur - on Friday. Also read: Lok Sabha Polls 2024: Nearly 64% voter turnout recorded; West Bengal leads, Bihar records lowest turnout Until 9:00 am approximately 12.6% of the nearly 15.44 lakh voters in Manipur impacted by ethnic violence exercised their right to vote for the two Lok Sabha seats. The Inner Manipur constituency had 13. 82% turnout, while Outer Manipur witnessed 11. 57% turnout in the first two hours of voting. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Election Commission announces repolling at 11 Manipur polling stations

Israel launched targeted strikes at Syria's army position in the South, said the Syrian government and monitor on Friday (Apr 19) following reports of Israeli attacks in Iran's Isfahan.

Syria's defence ministry released a statement saying, "The Israeli enemy carried out an attack using missiles... targeting our air defence sites in the southern region" and causing material damage.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said that Israel hit the army radar position in the southern province of Daraa that had detected the entry of Israeli planes into Syria's airspace.

Head of the Britain-based Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman said that the air offensive occurred at the time "when the Israeli air force was flying intensively over the Daraa region".

Syria's foreign ministry condemned "in the strongest terms" Friday's "Israeli aggression and the attacks before it on its territory".

Syria called on "the international community and the United Nations... to take all deterrence measures to stop" the Israeli attacks, the ministry said in a statement carried by state news agency SANA.

The latest strikes in Syria come amid reports of Israeli attacks in the Iranian city of Isfahan.

Iran, however, said that it had shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-iran-not-planning-retaliation-against-israel-after-attack-near-isfahan-713015">West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan</a>

Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X.

"Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported. &nbsp;

<h2>US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’</h2>

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran.

"I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri.

"What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel launched targeted strikes at Syria's army position in the South, said the Syrian government and monitor on Friday (Apr 19) following reports of Israeli attacks in Iran's Isfahan.

Israel launched targeted strikes at Syria's army position in the South, said the Syrian government and monitor on Friday (Apr 19) following reports of Israeli attacks in Iran's Isfahan. Syria's defence ministry released a statement saying, "The Israeli enemy carried out an attack using missiles... targeting our air defence sites in the southern region" and causing material damage. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said that Israel hit the army radar position in the southern province of Daraa that had detected the entry of Israeli planes into Syria's airspace. Head of the Britain-based Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman said that the air offensive occurred at the time "when the Israeli air force was flying intensively over the Daraa region". Syria's foreign ministry condemned "in the strongest terms" Friday's "Israeli aggression and the attacks before it on its territory". Syria called on "the international community and the United Nations... to take all deterrence measures to stop" the Israeli attacks, the ministry said in a statement carried by state news agency SANA. The latest strikes in Syria come amid reports of Israeli attacks in the Iranian city of Isfahan. Iran, however, said that it had shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now". Also read: West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X. "Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported. US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran. "I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri. "What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Syria accuses Israel of launching attacks targeting army position

After Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir invited severe criticism on Friday (Apr 19) over terming the country's reported air strike against Iran as "lame", he was reached out to by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant who told him that he was harming Israel’s national security.

However, according to Channel 12 reports, there probably will not be any further repercussions for Gvir as the Israeli prime minister is reliant on him to remain in power.

Gvir courted controversy after he suggested that Israel was responsible for the reported blasts that rocked Iran on Friday.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, the cause of which is not yet known.

A section of US media quoting American officials said that Israel had launched its retaliatory attacks against its arch-rival Iran.

Gvir, who is a member of Netanyahu's ruling coalition, took to his official social media handle X and wrote, "Scarecrow!" which translates to feeble in Hebrew slang, hinting at a suggestion that Israel was behind the explosions but the action it took was weak.

His remarks swiftly grabbed attention with opposition leader Yair Lapid commenting, "Never before a minister has done such heavy damage to the country's security, its image, and its international status."

"In an unforgivable tweet of one word, Ben Gvir managed to sneer and shame Israel from Tehran to Washington," he added.

Shaiel Ben-Ephraim, an academic and host of a podcast on geopolitics, said that Ben Gvir "confirms the Israeli operation and ridicules it".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-iran-not-planning-retaliation-against-israel-after-attack-near-isfahan-713015">West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan</a>

"By doing so he undermines Israel's power of deterrence. An absolute disgrace for a minister," he wrote on X.

<h2>US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’&nbsp;</h2>

Following the reported explosion in Isfahan, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on the matter.

"I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri.

"What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he further said.

However, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during a press briefing said that the United States was notified about the Israeli strikes way in advance.&nbsp;

"The United States was informed at the last moment," he said, adding that "it was just information" passed on -- without saying who by.&nbsp;

The Group of Seven ministers, in its final statement, said, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation. The G7 will continue to work to this end."

(With inputs from agencies)

After Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir invited severe criticism on Friday (Apr 19) over terming the country's reported air strike against Iran as "lame", he was reached out to by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant who told him that he was harming Israel’s national security.

After Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir invited severe criticism on Friday (Apr 19) over terming the country's reported air strike against Iran as "lame", he was reached out to by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant who told him that he was harming Israel’s national security. However, according to Channel 12 reports, there probably will not be any further repercussions for Gvir as the Israeli prime minister is reliant on him to remain in power. Gvir courted controversy after he suggested that Israel was responsible for the reported blasts that rocked Iran on Friday. Earlier in the day, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, the cause of which is not yet known. A section of US media quoting American officials said that Israel had launched its retaliatory attacks against its arch-rival Iran. Gvir, who is a member of Netanyahu's ruling coalition, took to his official social media handle X and wrote, "Scarecrow!" which translates to feeble in Hebrew slang, hinting at a suggestion that Israel was behind the explosions but the action it took was weak. His remarks swiftly grabbed attention with opposition leader Yair Lapid commenting, "Never before a minister has done such heavy damage to the country's security, its image, and its international status." "In an unforgivable tweet of one word, Ben Gvir managed to sneer and shame Israel from Tehran to Washington," he added. Shaiel Ben-Ephraim, an academic and host of a podcast on geopolitics, said that Ben Gvir "confirms the Israeli operation and ridicules it". Also read: West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan "By doing so he undermines Israel's power of deterrence. An absolute disgrace for a minister," he wrote on X. US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ Following the reported explosion in Isfahan, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on the matter. "I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri. "What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he further said. However, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during a press briefing said that the United States was notified about the Israeli strikes way in advance. "The United States was informed at the last moment," he said, adding that "it was just information" passed on -- without saying who by. The Group of Seven ministers, in its final statement, said, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation. The G7 will continue to work to this end." (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu aide lambasts minister for suggesting Israel's role behind Iran blasts

As the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls kickstarted on Friday (Apr 19), Chhattisgarh's Chandameta village in Bastar district cast its vote for the very first time since Independence.

This came days after the security forces successfully concluded the anti-Naxal operation in the state, killing at least 29 Naxals in Bastar, which is&nbsp;also known as the hub of Red Terror.

The village,&nbsp;a stronghold of Naxals, comprised 325 registered voters, including 162 women.

Earlier in the day, Bastar Inspector General of Police (IG) P Sundarraj said that people full of enthusiasm were seen queuing up outside polling booths amid a three-layer security cordon.

Bastar was the only one of the state's 11 Lok Sabha constituencies that went into polls on the opening phase of the Lok Sabha polls on Friday (Apr 19).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/lok-sabha-elections-2024-102-year-old-woman-heads-to-polling-booth-to-vote-in-tamil-nadu-watch-713109">Lok Sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old woman heads to polling booth to vote in Tamil Nadu. WATCH</a>

"Robust and safe polling is being conducted in Baster in the first phase of the general elections today. Locals are arriving and queuing up outside polling booths with absolute confidence and without fear. Three-layered security arrangements were made in the area and additional forces were also put on standby. In border areas, special forces from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha helped us maintain security," IG P Sundarraj said while speaking to news agency ANI.

The rest of the constituencies will go to polls on April 26 and May 7.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 9 of the 11 seats in the state in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, while the Congress secured only 2.

Deepak Baij of the Congress party won the polls in Bastar.

The first phase of voting includes 102 constituencies across 21 states in India. These&nbsp;include Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir, and Lakshadweep.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls kickstarted on Friday (Apr 19), Chhattisgarh's Chandameta village in Bastar district cast its vote for the very first time since Independence.

As the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls kickstarted on Friday (Apr 19), Chhattisgarh's Chandameta village in Bastar district cast its vote for the very first time since Independence. This came days after the security forces successfully concluded the anti-Naxal operation in the state, killing at least 29 Naxals in Bastar, which is also known as the hub of Red Terror. The village, a stronghold of Naxals, comprised 325 registered voters, including 162 women. Earlier in the day, Bastar Inspector General of Police (IG) P Sundarraj said that people full of enthusiasm were seen queuing up outside polling booths amid a three-layer security cordon. Bastar was the only one of the state's 11 Lok Sabha constituencies that went into polls on the opening phase of the Lok Sabha polls on Friday (Apr 19). Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old woman heads to polling booth to vote in Tamil Nadu. WATCH "Robust and safe polling is being conducted in Baster in the first phase of the general elections today. Locals are arriving and queuing up outside polling booths with absolute confidence and without fear. Three-layered security arrangements were made in the area and additional forces were also put on standby. In border areas, special forces from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha helped us maintain security," IG P Sundarraj said while speaking to news agency ANI. The rest of the constituencies will go to polls on April 26 and May 7. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 9 of the 11 seats in the state in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, while the Congress secured only 2. Deepak Baij of the Congress party won the polls in Bastar. The first phase of voting includes 102 constituencies across 21 states in India. These include Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir, and Lakshadweep. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls: Chandameta in Bastar votes for first time since Independence

Sunita Kejriwal, wife of jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday (Apr 21) levelled strong allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre of attempts being made to kill the AAP supremo in prison by not allowing him to take insulin in jail. She further alleged that the government is constantly monitoring the food consumed by her husband.

She said that the Delhi CM did not desire power and just wanted to serve the nation and wished to take India to the topmost position in the world.

While addressing the 'Nyay Ulgulan Rally' by the opposition INDIA bloc, Sunita said, "Arvind Kejriwal has no desire for power. He just wants to serve the nation. He wants to make the country no. 1. He says if educated people don't come into politics, how will the country progress?...'Jail ke taale tutenge, Arvind Kejriwal, Hemant Soren chhootenge."

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aaps-saurabh-bhardwaj-claim-plot-for-slow-death-of-arvind-kejriwal-713339">Tihar jail authorities submits report to LG, says Kejriwal stopped taking insulin a few months back</a>

<h2>'Consipray to kill Kejriwal'</h2>

Accusing the BJP of hatching a conspiracy to kill Kejriwal, Sunita claimed that her husband was denied insulin in jail which he has been consuming for the past 12 years.

"Many people say politics is a very dirty thing, and it's true. There is a camera over his food, his every morsel is being monitored...He is a sugar patient, and he has been taking 50 units of insulin every day for the last 12 years. But he is not being given insulin in jail. They want to kill Delhi's CM," the wife of the AAP national convenor said.

"They can never understand Arvind Kejriwal's thoughts. He believes he has received a very good education and upbringing, which is an obligation to him that he has to repay. He has struggled and fought for the country. He is very brave. He is a lion. He is only thinking about how to ease the lives of common citizens. He is worried about 'Bharat Mata' even in jail," she added.

She then read out Kejriwal's message from jail, elaborating upon vows made by AAP for the Lok Sabha polls.

"He (Arvind Kejriwal) has said if the INDIA bloc comes to power and is given the responsibility, we will all make India great. 'INDIA' is not just in our name, but in our hearts too," the former bureaucrat said.

"He has given six guarantees: 24 hours of electricity without power cuts, free electricity for the poor, quality and free education in government schools, Mohalla clinics in every village, and multi-speciality hospitals in every district. Farmers will get crop prices according to the Swaminathan Commission, and Delhi will be given full statehood," she further added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sunita Kejriwal, wife of jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday (Apr 21) levelled strong allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre of attempts being made to kill the AAP supremo in prison by not allowing him to take insulin in jail.

Sunita Kejriwal, wife of jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday (Apr 21) levelled strong allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre of attempts being made to kill the AAP supremo in prison by not allowing him to take insulin in jail. She further alleged that the government is constantly monitoring the food consumed by her husband. She said that the Delhi CM did not desire power and just wanted to serve the nation and wished to take India to the topmost position in the world. While addressing the 'Nyay Ulgulan Rally' by the opposition INDIA bloc, Sunita said, "Arvind Kejriwal has no desire for power. He just wants to serve the nation. He wants to make the country no. 1. He says if educated people don't come into politics, how will the country progress?...'Jail ke taale tutenge, Arvind Kejriwal, Hemant Soren chhootenge." #WATCH | Ranchi, Jharkhand: At a rally by INDIA alliance leaders, Delhi CM's wife Sunita Kejriwal says, "Arvind Kejriwal has no desire for power. He just wants to serve the nation. He wants to make the country no.1... Many people say that this is difficult. 'Jail ke taale… pic.twitter.com/2imFS0q5uc — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2024 × Also read: Tihar jail authorities submits report to LG, says Kejriwal stopped taking insulin a few months back 'Consipray to kill Kejriwal' Accusing the BJP of hatching a conspiracy to kill Kejriwal, Sunita claimed that her husband was denied insulin in jail which he has been consuming for the past 12 years. "Many people say politics is a very dirty thing, and it's true. There is a camera over his food, his every morsel is being monitored...He is a sugar patient, and he has been taking 50 units of insulin every day for the last 12 years. But he is not being given insulin in jail. They want to kill Delhi's CM," the wife of the AAP national convenor said. "They can never understand Arvind Kejriwal's thoughts. He believes he has received a very good education and upbringing, which is an obligation to him that he has to repay. He has struggled and fought for the country. He is very brave. He is a lion. He is only thinking about how to ease the lives of common citizens. He is worried about 'Bharat Mata' even in jail," she added. She then read out Kejriwal's message from jail, elaborating upon vows made by AAP for the Lok Sabha polls. "He (Arvind Kejriwal) has said if the INDIA bloc comes to power and is given the responsibility, we will all make India great. 'INDIA' is not just in our name, but in our hearts too," the former bureaucrat said. "He has given six guarantees: 24 hours of electricity without power cuts, free electricity for the poor, quality and free education in government schools, Mohalla clinics in every village, and multi-speciality hospitals in every district. Farmers will get crop prices according to the Swaminathan Commission, and Delhi will be given full statehood," she further added. (With inputs from agencies)

Sunita Kejriwal accuses BJP of making ‘attempts to kill’ Delhi CM; ‘his food is being monitored’

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan following his meeting with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Istanbul on Saturday (Apr 20) called on the Palestinians to unite amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.

As per the Turkish media reports, the talks that took place between the Turkish President and Hamas chief, at the Dolmabahce palace, on the banks of the Bosphorus strait, lasted for about more than two and a half hours.

"It is vital that Palestinians act with unity in this process. The strongest response to Israel and the path to victory lie in unity and integrity," Erdogan said according to a Turkish presidency statement.

Hamas, which has been designated as a terrorist organisation by the US, the European Union and Israel, is an arch-foe of the Fatah faction that governs the semi-autonomous Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank.

The meeting between the two leaders also comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following reports of an Israeli counterattack on Iran.

Erdogan, as per news agency AFP, said that the strained ties between Tel Aviv and Tehran should also not permit Israel to "gain ground and that it is important to act in a way that keeps attention on Gaza".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqs-military-base-bombed-one-dead-several-injured-sources-713217">No drones or planes in Iraqi airspace during military base blast, says Iraq</a>

<h2>Erdogan sends Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to Qatar</h2>

After Qatar said that it will reevaluate its role as the mediator between Israel and Hamas amid the ongoing war, Erdogan on Wednesday sent Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to Doha indicating that he wants to take up the role.

"Even if only I, Tayyip Erdogan, remain, I will continue as long as God gives me my life, to defend the Palestinian struggle and to be the voice of the oppressed Palestinian people," the president said Wednesday when he announced Haniyeh's visit.

<h2>Turkish President&nbsp;slams Netanyahu</h2>

Earlier, on Tuesday (Apr 16), Erdogan hit out at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli leadership condemning them for the escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

"Israel violating international law and the Vienna Convention by targeting the Iranian Embassy in Damascus was the straw that broke the camel's back," Erdogan said during a press conference after a cabinet meeting in Ankara.

He also launched a scathing attack on Netanyahu stating that he was solely responsible for the lives lost during the war and that he was endangering his own countrymen and people in the region.

"Netanyahu is endangering the lives of both his own citizens and all the people of the region to extend his political life. This is an indisputable fact: the one responsible for the tension that made our hearts skip a beat on the night of April 13 is Netanyahu and his government, which is seeing red," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan following his meeting with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Istanbul on Saturday (Apr 20) called on the Palestinians to unite amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan following his meeting with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Istanbul on Saturday (Apr 20) called on the Palestinians to unite amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. As per the Turkish media reports, the talks that took place between the Turkish President and Hamas chief, at the Dolmabahce palace, on the banks of the Bosphorus strait, lasted for about more than two and a half hours. "It is vital that Palestinians act with unity in this process. The strongest response to Israel and the path to victory lie in unity and integrity," Erdogan said according to a Turkish presidency statement. Hamas, which has been designated as a terrorist organisation by the US, the European Union and Israel, is an arch-foe of the Fatah faction that governs the semi-autonomous Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank. The meeting between the two leaders also comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following reports of an Israeli counterattack on Iran. Erdogan, as per news agency AFP, said that the strained ties between Tel Aviv and Tehran should also not permit Israel to "gain ground and that it is important to act in a way that keeps attention on Gaza". Also read: No drones or planes in Iraqi airspace during military base blast, says Iraq Erdogan sends Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to Qatar After Qatar said that it will reevaluate its role as the mediator between Israel and Hamas amid the ongoing war, Erdogan on Wednesday sent Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to Doha indicating that he wants to take up the role. "Even if only I, Tayyip Erdogan, remain, I will continue as long as God gives me my life, to defend the Palestinian struggle and to be the voice of the oppressed Palestinian people," the president said Wednesday when he announced Haniyeh's visit. Turkish President slams Netanyahu Earlier, on Tuesday (Apr 16), Erdogan hit out at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli leadership condemning them for the escalation of tensions in the Middle East. "Israel violating international law and the Vienna Convention by targeting the Iranian Embassy in Damascus was the straw that broke the camel's back," Erdogan said during a press conference after a cabinet meeting in Ankara. He also launched a scathing attack on Netanyahu stating that he was solely responsible for the lives lost during the war and that he was endangering his own countrymen and people in the region. "Netanyahu is endangering the lives of both his own citizens and all the people of the region to extend his political life. This is an indisputable fact: the one responsible for the tension that made our hearts skip a beat on the night of April 13 is Netanyahu and his government, which is seeing red," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan calls on Palestinians to unite after meeting with Hamas chief

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)&nbsp;leader Shazia Ilmi on Friday (Apr 19) joined in the war of words over jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's diet stating that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo consumed eggs during Navratri.

Shazia, during a press briefing, said, "I believe Kejriwal is mindful of what he should or shouldn't eat for someone who is a diabetic. However, what surprised me was that he even ate eggs during the Navratras. I thought he avoided eggs during Navratri as is customary. However, ultimately, it's a matter of his personal choice whether he wants to have eggs during Navratri or not."

Her remarks come after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday (Apr 18) said in a Delhi court that Kejriwal was deliberately eating mangoes, sweets, and other high-carb food to raise his blood sugar level to build a case for bail.&nbsp;

The counsel said that the Delhi chief minister has been consuming mangoes, sweets, etc, in jail irrespective of saying that he has high sugar levels.&nbsp;

Shazia further hitting out at AAP's claims that alleged Kejriwal's health concerns were being ignored deliberately, said, "Why would a responsible government agency bring harm to someone it is mandated to protect? I believe we need to avoid making such statements."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/arvind-kejriwal-health-court-reserves-order-on-a-plea-moved-by-delhi-cm-713010">Also read: Arvind Kejriwal health: Court reserves order on plea moved by Delhi CM</a>

ED's Special Counsel Zoheb Hossain submitted that the Delhi chief minister was on purpose eating mangoes, sweets, tea with high sugar and Aaloo Poori (popular north Indian breakfast), along with other items in order to prepare grounds for bail.&nbsp;

"As the prison manual stipulates, an inmate cannot be administered an injection in jail. A medical assistant has been assigned to him, who administers him with insulin as prescribed. So, to say that he is being denied insulin is false. The jail administration has confirmed as much," Shazia said refuting AAP's claims of insulin being denied to Kejriwal.

Earlier, following ED's claim, Atishi alleged that there was a "huge conspiracy" to kill Kejriwal.&nbsp;

"For the past several days, his blood sugar level has been consistently above 300 mg/dL. Despite Kejriwal's repeated requests, he is not being given insulin, and his sugar level is increasing. He is not being given medication because there is a plot to kill him," she alleged.&nbsp;

To this, the BJP leader said, "Since his detention, he's only had jail food for two days. Otherwise, he has only been having food brought from his home. He, himself, put in a request for homecooked food, which was approved."

"Anyone with type-2 diabetes would not consume mangoes. He has had diabetes for a long time now. He knows what he should eat and what he shouldn't," Shazia added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Shazia Ilmi on Friday (Apr 19) joined in the war of words over jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's diet stating that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo consumed eggs during Navratri.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Shazia Ilmi on Friday (Apr 19) joined in the war of words over jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's diet stating that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo consumed eggs during Navratri. Shazia, during a press briefing, said, "I believe Kejriwal is mindful of what he should or shouldn't eat for someone who is a diabetic. However, what surprised me was that he even ate eggs during the Navratras. I thought he avoided eggs during Navratri as is customary. However, ultimately, it's a matter of his personal choice whether he wants to have eggs during Navratri or not." Her remarks come after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday (Apr 18) said in a Delhi court that Kejriwal was deliberately eating mangoes, sweets, and other high-carb food to raise his blood sugar level to build a case for bail. The counsel said that the Delhi chief minister has been consuming mangoes, sweets, etc, in jail irrespective of saying that he has high sugar levels. Shazia further hitting out at AAP's claims that alleged Kejriwal's health concerns were being ignored deliberately, said, "Why would a responsible government agency bring harm to someone it is mandated to protect? I believe we need to avoid making such statements." Also read: Arvind Kejriwal health: Court reserves order on plea moved by Delhi CM ED's Special Counsel Zoheb Hossain submitted that the Delhi chief minister was on purpose eating mangoes, sweets, tea with high sugar and Aaloo Poori (popular north Indian breakfast), along with other items in order to prepare grounds for bail. "As the prison manual stipulates, an inmate cannot be administered an injection in jail. A medical assistant has been assigned to him, who administers him with insulin as prescribed. So, to say that he is being denied insulin is false. The jail administration has confirmed as much," Shazia said refuting AAP's claims of insulin being denied to Kejriwal. Earlier, following ED's claim, Atishi alleged that there was a "huge conspiracy" to kill Kejriwal. "For the past several days, his blood sugar level has been consistently above 300 mg/dL. Despite Kejriwal's repeated requests, he is not being given insulin, and his sugar level is increasing. He is not being given medication because there is a plot to kill him," she alleged. To this, the BJP leader said, "Since his detention, he's only had jail food for two days. Otherwise, he has only been having food brought from his home. He, himself, put in a request for homecooked food, which was approved." "Anyone with type-2 diabetes would not consume mangoes. He has had diabetes for a long time now. He knows what he should eat and what he shouldn't," Shazia added. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP's Shazia Ilmi rebuffs AAP's accusation of plot to kill Arvind Kejriwal, says he ate 'eggs during Navratri'

As Dubai experienced unprecedented weather events in the last few days, a new video of its sky going green has taken the internet by storm.

The timelapse video shows the sky going hazy green from grey, which some social media users said was an indication of an imminent rainstorm.

The 23-second clip is captioned on social media X by a user as “sky turns green In Dubai! Actual footage from the storm in Dubai today.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Sky Turns GREEN In DUBAI! 
 
Actual footage from the storm in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dubai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dubai</a> today. <a href="https://t.co/x8kQe85Lto">pic.twitter.com/x8kQe85Lto</a>
— Mister J. - مسٹر جے (@Angryman_J) <a href="https://twitter.com/Angryman_J/status/1780348671315288485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

“Actual footage from the storm in Dubai today. You can see the sky turn GREEN!!!” shared another user.

A third wrote, “Heavy rain in Dubai right now, live footage sky turns green the whole city looks like dusty #Dubai #rain.”

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Heavy rain in Dubai right now , live footage sky turns green the whole city looks like dusty<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dubai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dubai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rain</a> 
<a href="https://t.co/mzfeYjNuE0">pic.twitter.com/mzfeYjNuE0</a>
— farheenkhan (@farheenkhansam2) <a href="https://twitter.com/farheenkhansam2/status/1780362915469832674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

“That's supercell, tornado colour. I've seen it in the deserts of southwestern United States,” said another user.

<h2>What causes change in hue?</h2>

In a report by the University Of Wisconsin–Madison research meteorologist Scott Bachmeier said, “When blue objects are illuminated with red light, they appear green. Green is significant, but not proof that a tornado is on the way. A green cloud will only occur if the cloud is very deep, which generally only occurs in thunderstorm clouds.”

“Those are the kind of storms that may produce hail and tornadoes,” added the report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dubai-floods-experts-believe-cloud-seeding-is-not-behind-the-heavy-rainfall-712458">Also read:&nbsp;Dubai floods: Experts dismiss cloud seeding as reason for extreme rainfall</a>

<h2>Several flights cancelled in Dubai</h2>

Dubai International Airport faced chaos on Tuesday (April 16), as heavy rains caused flash floods that inundated the runway.&nbsp;

Dramatic footage captured a Flydubai Boeing 737 wading through the flash floods, highlighting the severity of the storm. The downpour forced multiple flight cancellations.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Dubai Airport right now 
<a href="https://t.co/FX992PQvAU">pic.twitter.com/FX992PQvAU</a>
— Science girl (@gunsnrosesgirl3) <a href="https://twitter.com/gunsnrosesgirl3/status/1780307713592897542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Planes arriving at the Dubai airport were also temporarily diverted on Tuesday evening to other locations until weather conditions improved, while the departures continued to operate.

<h2>What caused the heavy rainfall?</h2>

Experts said that the heavy rainfall in the UAE was likely due to a normal weather system that was exacerbated by climate change. Esraa Alnaqbi, a senior forecaster at the UAE government's National Centre of Meteorology, told the news agency Reuters that a low-pressure system in the upper atmosphere, coupled with low pressure at the surface had acted like a pressure 'squeeze' on the air.

Alnaqabi said that the squeeze, intensified by the contrast between warmer temperatures at ground level and colder temperatures higher up, and created the conditions for the powerful thunderstorm

(With inputs from agencies)

As Dubai experienced unprecedented weather events in the last few days, a new video of its sky going green has taken the internet by storm. The timelapse video shows the sky going hazy green from grey, which some social media users said was an indication of an imminent rainstorm.

As Dubai experienced unprecedented weather events in the last few days, a new video of its sky going green has taken the internet by storm. The timelapse video shows the sky going hazy green from grey, which some social media users said was an indication of an imminent rainstorm. The 23-second clip is captioned on social media X by a user as “sky turns green In Dubai! Actual footage from the storm in Dubai today.” Sky Turns GREEN In DUBAI! Actual footage from the storm in #Dubai today. pic.twitter.com/x8kQe85Lto — Mister J. - مسٹر جے (@Angryman_J) April 16, 2024 × “Actual footage from the storm in Dubai today. You can see the sky turn GREEN!!!” shared another user. A third wrote, “Heavy rain in Dubai right now, live footage sky turns green the whole city looks like dusty #Dubai #rain.” Heavy rain in Dubai right now , live footage sky turns green the whole city looks like dusty#Dubai #rain pic.twitter.com/mzfeYjNuE0 — farheenkhan (@farheenkhansam2) April 16, 2024 × “That's supercell, tornado colour. I've seen it in the deserts of southwestern United States,” said another user. What causes change in hue? In a report by the University Of Wisconsin–Madison research meteorologist Scott Bachmeier said, “When blue objects are illuminated with red light, they appear green. Green is significant, but not proof that a tornado is on the way. A green cloud will only occur if the cloud is very deep, which generally only occurs in thunderstorm clouds.” “Those are the kind of storms that may produce hail and tornadoes,” added the report. Also read: Dubai floods: Experts dismiss cloud seeding as reason for extreme rainfall Several flights cancelled in Dubai Dubai International Airport faced chaos on Tuesday (April 16), as heavy rains caused flash floods that inundated the runway. Dramatic footage captured a Flydubai Boeing 737 wading through the flash floods, highlighting the severity of the storm. The downpour forced multiple flight cancellations. Dubai Airport right now pic.twitter.com/FX992PQvAU — Science girl (@gunsnrosesgirl3) April 16, 2024 × Planes arriving at the Dubai airport were also temporarily diverted on Tuesday evening to other locations until weather conditions improved, while the departures continued to operate. What caused the heavy rainfall? Experts said that the heavy rainfall in the UAE was likely due to a normal weather system that was exacerbated by climate change. Esraa Alnaqbi, a senior forecaster at the UAE government's National Centre of Meteorology, told the news agency Reuters that a low-pressure system in the upper atmosphere, coupled with low pressure at the surface had acted like a pressure 'squeeze' on the air. Alnaqabi said that the squeeze, intensified by the contrast between warmer temperatures at ground level and colder temperatures higher up, and created the conditions for the powerful thunderstorm (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Dubai sky turns green, internet calls it 'indication of impending storm'

Ten people, including Kenya's defence chief lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Thursday (Apr 18) after the aircraft came down minutes after take-off, announced President William Ruto.

The helicopter had been on a visit to military personnel who were deployed in northwest Kenya to fight the endemic cattle rustling.&nbsp;

The incident occurred minutes after the aircraft left Cheptulel Boys Secondary School in West Pokot County, said Ruto.

"Today at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident... I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla," he said.

"Our motherland has lost one of her most valiant generals," he told a news conference. "The demise of General Ogolla is a painful loss to me... A distinguished four-star general has fallen in the course of duty, and service to country."

However, he said two soldiers who survived the crash were rushed to hospital further adding that a probe was launched into the matter to ascertain the cause behind the incident.

Ogolla, who previously used to head the Kenyan Air Force, became the deputy military chief before being promoted to the position of Kenya's military chief.

Ogolla joined the Kenya Defence Forces in the year 1984, where he trained as a fighter pilot with the United States Air Force and as an instructor pilot at the Kenya Air Force (KAF), as per a Defence Ministry profile.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ten people, including Kenya's defence chief lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Thursday (Apr 18) after the aircraft came down minutes after take-off, announced President William Ruto.

Ten people, including Kenya's defence chief lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Thursday (Apr 18) after the aircraft came down minutes after take-off, announced President William Ruto. The helicopter had been on a visit to military personnel who were deployed in northwest Kenya to fight the endemic cattle rustling. The incident occurred minutes after the aircraft left Cheptulel Boys Secondary School in West Pokot County, said Ruto. "Today at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident... I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla," he said. "Our motherland has lost one of her most valiant generals," he told a news conference. "The demise of General Ogolla is a painful loss to me... A distinguished four-star general has fallen in the course of duty, and service to country." However, he said two soldiers who survived the crash were rushed to hospital further adding that a probe was launched into the matter to ascertain the cause behind the incident. Ogolla, who previously used to head the Kenyan Air Force, became the deputy military chief before being promoted to the position of Kenya's military chief. Ogolla joined the Kenya Defence Forces in the year 1984, where he trained as a fighter pilot with the United States Air Force and as an instructor pilot at the Kenya Air Force (KAF), as per a Defence Ministry profile. (With inputs from agencies)

Kenya military helicopter crashes with defence chief on board: Police

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarm bells for new species, including humans, who are prone to extraordinarily high mortality rates, over the rapid rise of H5N1 bird flu.

"This remains I think an enormous concern," the UN health agency's chief scientist Jeremy Farrar told reporters in Geneva.

The bird flu outbreak, that started in the year 2020, has so far claimed the lives of tens of millions of poultry, along with infecting wild birds as well as land and marine mammals.

Surprisingly, other species that were affected by the contagion were cows and goats, which as per the experts were not even considered vulnerable to this type of influenza.

The A (H5N1) strain has become "a global zoonotic animal pandemic", Farrar said.

"The great concern of course is that in... infecting ducks and chickens and then increasingly mammals, that virus now evolves and develops the ability to infect humans and then critically the ability to go from human to human."

For now, experts say that there were no reports of the spread of the virus amongst humans, however, in cases where humans were infected through contact with animals, "the mortality rate is extraordinarily high", Farrar said.

The WHO said that from the year 2003 to 1 April 2024, it recorded around 463 deaths from over 889 human cases across 23 countries, which it said put the case mortality rate at 52 per cent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cabinet-minister-atishi-accuses-bjp-of-plotting-to-kill-kejriwal-712651">Delhi cabinet minister Atishi accuses BJP of plotting to kill Kejriwal</a>

<h2>Bird flu case in US</h2>

The United States had earlier this month raised concern after a person in Texas was recovering from influenza after being exposed to dairy cattle.

This was the second case of a human testing positive for the contagion after being exposed to the herd that caught the infection from wild birds in Texas, Kansas and other states.

When "you come into the mammalian population, then you're getting closer to humans," Farrar said, warning that "this virus is just looking for new, novel hosts".

"It's a real concern."&nbsp;

Farrar further urged for ramping up the monitoring efforts stating that it was "very important understanding how many human infections are happening... because that's where adaptation (of the virus) will happen".

"It's a tragic thing to say, but if I get infected with H5N1 and I die, that's the end of it. If I go around the community and I spread it to somebody else then you start the cycle."

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarm bells for new species, including humans, who are prone to extraordinarily high mortality rates, over the rapid rise of H5N1 bird flu.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarm bells for new species, including humans, who are prone to extraordinarily high mortality rates, over the rapid rise of H5N1 bird flu. "This remains I think an enormous concern," the UN health agency's chief scientist Jeremy Farrar told reporters in Geneva. The bird flu outbreak, that started in the year 2020, has so far claimed the lives of tens of millions of poultry, along with infecting wild birds as well as land and marine mammals. Surprisingly, other species that were affected by the contagion were cows and goats, which as per the experts were not even considered vulnerable to this type of influenza. The A (H5N1) strain has become "a global zoonotic animal pandemic", Farrar said. "The great concern of course is that in... infecting ducks and chickens and then increasingly mammals, that virus now evolves and develops the ability to infect humans and then critically the ability to go from human to human." For now, experts say that there were no reports of the spread of the virus amongst humans, however, in cases where humans were infected through contact with animals, "the mortality rate is extraordinarily high", Farrar said. The WHO said that from the year 2003 to 1 April 2024, it recorded around 463 deaths from over 889 human cases across 23 countries, which it said put the case mortality rate at 52 per cent. Also read: Delhi cabinet minister Atishi accuses BJP of plotting to kill Kejriwal Bird flu case in US The United States had earlier this month raised concern after a person in Texas was recovering from influenza after being exposed to dairy cattle. This was the second case of a human testing positive for the contagion after being exposed to the herd that caught the infection from wild birds in Texas, Kansas and other states. When "you come into the mammalian population, then you're getting closer to humans," Farrar said, warning that "this virus is just looking for new, novel hosts". "It's a real concern." Farrar further urged for ramping up the monitoring efforts stating that it was "very important understanding how many human infections are happening... because that's where adaptation (of the virus) will happen". "It's a tragic thing to say, but if I get infected with H5N1 and I die, that's the end of it. If I go around the community and I spread it to somebody else then you start the cycle." (With inputs from agencies)

WHO raises alarm over human cases of bird flu, calls it 'enormous concern'

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel&nbsp;launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran.

"I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation,"&nbsp;Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri.

"What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he said.

The top United States diplomat reiterated the same response on being asked about the situation several times during the press briefing.

"The US has not been involved in any offensive operation," he said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vetoes-palestinian-request-for-full-statehood-at-united-nations-712748">US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations</a>

<h2>'Washington was informed of strikes in advance,' says G7 host Antonio Tajani</h2>

Earlier, at a separate news briefing, G7 host and Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that the United States was notified about the Israeli strikes way in advance. However, he did not share much details.

"The United States were informed at the last moment," he said, adding that "it was just information" passed on -- without saying who by.&nbsp;

The Group of Seven ministers, in its final statement, said, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation. The G7 will continue to work to this end."

<h2>Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel&nbsp;</h2>

Iran is not planning any retaliation against Israel after Friday's (Apr 19) attacks, a top Iranian official was quoted by Reuters as saying.

“The foreign source of the incident has not been confirmed. We have not received any external attack, and the discussion leans more towards infiltration than attack,” the official said.

Earlier in the day, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, the cause of which is not yet known. However, airspace over several Iranian cities was closed shortly after the explosion.

Iran subsequently said that it shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now".

Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X.

"Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported.&nbsp;

The province of Isfahan is home to a large air base, a major missile production complex and reportedly several nuclear sites.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran. "I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri. "What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he said. The top United States diplomat reiterated the same response on being asked about the situation several times during the press briefing. "The US has not been involved in any offensive operation," he said. Also read: US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations 'Washington was informed of strikes in advance,' says G7 host Antonio Tajani Earlier, at a separate news briefing, G7 host and Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that the United States was notified about the Israeli strikes way in advance. However, he did not share much details. "The United States were informed at the last moment," he said, adding that "it was just information" passed on -- without saying who by. The Group of Seven ministers, in its final statement, said, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation. The G7 will continue to work to this end." Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel Iran is not planning any retaliation against Israel after Friday's (Apr 19) attacks, a top Iranian official was quoted by Reuters as saying. “The foreign source of the incident has not been confirmed. We have not received any external attack, and the discussion leans more towards infiltration than attack,” the official said. Earlier in the day, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, the cause of which is not yet known. However, airspace over several Iranian cities was closed shortly after the explosion. Iran subsequently said that it shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now". Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X. "Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported. The province of Isfahan is home to a large air base, a major missile production complex and reportedly several nuclear sites. (With inputs from agencies)

US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ after Israel carries out retaliatory attacks against Iran

As the 17th Lok Sabha term in India is set to expire on June 16, 2024, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the schedule of Lok Sabha elections on March 16.

The polls will be conducted in seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The results will be declared on June 4.

On Friday, a total of 102 constituencies spanning 21 states are participating in the first phase of voting.

With over 968.6 million people eligible to cast their votes this Lok Sabha elections, many have a common query about how to vote if one is residing away from their registered voting constituency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lakshadweep-lok-sabha-elections-2024-key-candidates-and-all-you-need-to-know-712467">Also read:&nbsp;Lakshadweep Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Key candidates and all you need to know</a>

Here's a guide on how to cast your vote if you are living in a different city:

1.) Check if you are a registered voter

The first step is to check your voter registration status which can either be done online via the Election Commission of India's official website or by talking to your local Electoral Registration Officer.

2.) Voter ID transfer

In case you have moved to a different location but plan to retain your right to vote in your original constituency, you will have to apply for a voter ID transfer. For this, you'll have to submit a form requesting your voter registration transfer from one constituency to another.

This can be done online or from the nearest Electoral Registration Office.

3.) Submit documents

While submitting the transfer form, you'll be required to share certain documents like the proof of residence of where you are currently residing.

4.) Verification

After you have submitted the required documents, the Electoral Registration Officer will begin with the verification process which may involve a visit to your current location.

5.) Confirmation

After the process of successful verification, the voter ID will be transferred to your current constituency and you will receive a confirmation via the mode of communication that you chose while filling out the form.

6.) Carry your voter ID

On election day, do not forget to carry your voter ID card to cast your vote.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the 17th Lok Sabha term in India is set to expire on June 16, 2024, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the schedule of Lok Sabha elections on March 16.

As the 17th Lok Sabha term in India is set to expire on June 16, 2024, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the schedule of Lok Sabha elections on March 16. The polls will be conducted in seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The results will be declared on June 4. On Friday, a total of 102 constituencies spanning 21 states are participating in the first phase of voting. With over 968.6 million people eligible to cast their votes this Lok Sabha elections, many have a common query about how to vote if one is residing away from their registered voting constituency. Also read: Lakshadweep Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Key candidates and all you need to know Here's a guide on how to cast your vote if you are living in a different city: 1.) Check if you are a registered voter The first step is to check your voter registration status which can either be done online via the Election Commission of India's official website or by talking to your local Electoral Registration Officer. 2.) Voter ID transfer In case you have moved to a different location but plan to retain your right to vote in your original constituency, you will have to apply for a voter ID transfer. For this, you'll have to submit a form requesting your voter registration transfer from one constituency to another. This can be done online or from the nearest Electoral Registration Office. 3.) Submit documents While submitting the transfer form, you'll be required to share certain documents like the proof of residence of where you are currently residing. 4.) Verification After you have submitted the required documents, the Electoral Registration Officer will begin with the verification process which may involve a visit to your current location. 5.) Confirmation After the process of successful verification, the voter ID will be transferred to your current constituency and you will receive a confirmation via the mode of communication that you chose while filling out the form. 6.) Carry your voter ID On election day, do not forget to carry your voter ID card to cast your vote. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha elections 2024: How to cast vote if you live in different city?

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Navya Beri

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