<p>An Indian student was shot dead inside a car by unidentified individuals in Canada's South Vancouver, said the local police.</p>

<p>The Vancouver Police released a statement saying that 24-year-old Chirag Antil was found dead inside a car after neighbours in the area reported hearing gunshots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident, according to the police took place on Friday (Apr 12).</p>

<p>"Officers were called to East 55th Avenue and Main Street around 11 pm on April 12 after residents heard the sound of gunshots. Chirag Antil, 24, was found deceased inside a vehicle in the area. No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing," said the police.</p>

<p>Hailing from the north Indian state of Haryana, Chirag moved to Vancouver in the year 2022 to pursue MBA. He had completed his degree and had recently gotten his work permit.</p>

<p>Chirag Antil's brother Ronit in a conversation with local media said that the same day he spoke to his brother in the morning and he seemed happy.</p>

<p>However, later in the day, he took out his Audi for a spin and it was when the incident took place.</p>

<p>"My brother and I had a great relationship. We used to talk every day, day and night. I spoke to him last before the accident happened. He was kind of happy, he never had any issues or fights with anyone, ever. He was an extremely polite person," CityNews quoted Romit as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-couple-recount-moments-as-sydney-stabbings-unfolded-710985">Indian-origin couple recounts moments as Sydney stabbings unfolded</a></p>

<p>The Congress students' wing National Students' Union of India chief Varun Choudhary also took to his official X account and shared a post tagging the Ministry of External Affairs for their help in the matter.</p>

<p>"Urgent attention regarding the murder of Chirag Antil, an Indian student in Vancouver, Canada. We urge the Ministry of External Affairs to closely monitor the progress of the investigation and ensure that justice is swiftly served," Choudhary said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Urgent attention regarding the murder of Chirag Antil, an Indian student in Vancouver, Canada.<br />
We urge the Ministry of External Affairs to closely monitor the progress of the investigation and ensure that justice is swiftly served.<br />
Additionally, we request the Ministry to extend… <a href="https://t.co/IWvlfbvqGt">pic.twitter.com/IWvlfbvqGt</a></p>
— Varun Choudhary (@varunchoudhary2) <a href="https://twitter.com/varunchoudhary2/status/1779167904132448430?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Additionally, we request the ministry to extend all necessary support and assistance to the family of the deceased during this difficult time," he added.</p>

<p>The Consulate General of India in Vancouver also expressed grief over Chirag's death.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/cgivancouver?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cgivancouver</a> has learnt with great sorrow about the shooting &amp; killing of an Indian national, Mr Chirag Antil, living in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vancouver?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vancouver</a>. We have approached the concerned Canadian authorities for more information in this regard. <a href="https://twitter.com/HCI_Ottawa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HCI_Ottawa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a></p>
— India in Vancouver (@cgivancouver) <a href="https://twitter.com/cgivancouver/status/1779296104510902771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have learnt with great sorrow about the shooting and killing of an Indian national, Chirag Antil, living in Vancouver. We have approached the concerned Canadian authorities for more information in this regard," it said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Indian student was shot dead inside a car by unidentified individuals in Canada's South Vancouver, said the local police. The Vancouver Police released a statement saying that 24-year-old Chirag Antil was found dead inside a car after neighbours in the area reported hearing gunshots.

An Indian student was shot dead inside a car by unidentified individuals in Canada's South Vancouver, said the local police. The Vancouver Police released a statement saying that 24-year-old Chirag Antil was found dead inside a car after neighbours in the area reported hearing gunshots. The incident, according to the police took place on Friday (Apr 12). "Officers were called to East 55th Avenue and Main Street around 11 pm on April 12 after residents heard the sound of gunshots. Chirag Antil, 24, was found deceased inside a vehicle in the area. No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing," said the police. Hailing from the north Indian state of Haryana, Chirag moved to Vancouver in the year 2022 to pursue MBA. He had completed his degree and had recently gotten his work permit. Chirag Antil's brother Ronit in a conversation with local media said that the same day he spoke to his brother in the morning and he seemed happy. However, later in the day, he took out his Audi for a spin and it was when the incident took place. "My brother and I had a great relationship. We used to talk every day, day and night. I spoke to him last before the accident happened. He was kind of happy, he never had any issues or fights with anyone, ever. He was an extremely polite person," CityNews quoted Romit as saying. Also read: Indian-origin couple recounts moments as Sydney stabbings unfolded The Congress students' wing National Students' Union of India chief Varun Choudhary also took to his official X account and shared a post tagging the Ministry of External Affairs for their help in the matter. "Urgent attention regarding the murder of Chirag Antil, an Indian student in Vancouver, Canada. We urge the Ministry of External Affairs to closely monitor the progress of the investigation and ensure that justice is swiftly served," Choudhary said. Urgent attention regarding the murder of Chirag Antil, an Indian student in Vancouver, Canada. We urge the Ministry of External Affairs to closely monitor the progress of the investigation and ensure that justice is swiftly served. Additionally, we request the Ministry to extend… pic.twitter.com/IWvlfbvqGt — Varun Choudhary (@varunchoudhary2) April 13, 2024 × "Additionally, we request the ministry to extend all necessary support and assistance to the family of the deceased during this difficult time," he added. The Consulate General of India in Vancouver also expressed grief over Chirag's death. @cgivancouver has learnt with great sorrow about the shooting & killing of an Indian national, Mr Chirag Antil, living in #Vancouver. We have approached the concerned Canadian authorities for more information in this regard. @HCI_Ottawa @MEAIndia @DrSJaishankar — India in Vancouver (@cgivancouver) April 13, 2024 × "We have learnt with great sorrow about the shooting and killing of an Indian national, Chirag Antil, living in Vancouver. We have approached the concerned Canadian authorities for more information in this regard," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian student from Haryana found shot dead inside car in Canada’s Vancouver

<p>Amid the escalation of tensions in the West Asian region, several countries have issued an advisory asking people not to travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon.</p>

<p><strong>Here's the list of countries that have warned against travel Israel, Iran, Palestine and Lebanon.</strong></p>

<h2><strong>- India</strong></h2>

<p>Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to its people&nbsp;asking them to not travel to Iran or Israel till further notice.</p>

<p>The advisory noted that all those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian embassies there and register themselves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>- Poland</strong></h2>

<p>Poland's foreign ministry on Friday issued an advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon stating, "It cannot be ruled out that there will be a sudden escalation of military operations, which would cause significant difficulties in leaving these three countries."</p>

<p>"Any escalation may lead to significant restrictions in air traffic and the inability to cross land border crossings," the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>- France&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The French foreign ministry on Friday released a statement on social media platform X stating that French citizens should avoid travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/iran-backed-hezbollah-fires-dozens-of-missiles-towards-northern-israel-710671">Iran-backed Hezbollah fires dozens of missiles towards Northern Israel</a></p>

<p>The statement further said that the relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and the French civil servants were barred from conducting missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian Territories.</p>

<h2><strong>- United States</strong></h2>

<p>The US on Thursday said that it had instructed its employees residing in Israel to avoid travelling outside of greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Be'er Sheva areas.</p>

<p>"Out of an abundance of caution, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be'er Sheva areas until further notice," the U.S. embassy said in a security alert on its website on Thursday. "U.S. government personnel are authorized to transit between these three areas for personal travel."</p>

<h2><strong>- Russia&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russia also issued an advisory against travelling to the Middle East, especially Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories.</p>

<p>"The tense situation in the Middle East region persists," said the foreign ministry.</p>

<p>"The situation in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict zone, as well as in the area of the 'Blue Line' between Lebanon and Israel, remains unstable."</p>

<p>"We strongly recommend that Russian citizens refrain from travelling to the region, especially to Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories, except in cases of extreme necessity," it added.</p>

<p>- Other countries that have warned their citizens against travelling to the Middle East include <strong>Norway, Britain, Canada and Australia</strong>.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid the escalation of tensions in the West Asian region, several countries have issued an advisory asking people not to travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon.

Amid the escalation of tensions in the West Asian region, several countries have issued an advisory asking people not to travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon. Here's the list of countries that have warned against travel Israel, Iran, Palestine and Lebanon. - India Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to its people asking them to not travel to Iran or Israel till further notice. The advisory noted that all those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian embassies there and register themselves. "They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added. - Poland Poland's foreign ministry on Friday issued an advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon stating, "It cannot be ruled out that there will be a sudden escalation of military operations, which would cause significant difficulties in leaving these three countries." "Any escalation may lead to significant restrictions in air traffic and the inability to cross land border crossings," the statement added. - France The French foreign ministry on Friday released a statement on social media platform X stating that French citizens should avoid travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories. Also read: Iran-backed Hezbollah fires dozens of missiles towards Northern Israel The statement further said that the relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and the French civil servants were barred from conducting missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian Territories. - United States The US on Thursday said that it had instructed its employees residing in Israel to avoid travelling outside of greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Be'er Sheva areas. "Out of an abundance of caution, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be'er Sheva areas until further notice," the U.S. embassy said in a security alert on its website on Thursday. "U.S. government personnel are authorized to transit between these three areas for personal travel." - Russia Russia also issued an advisory against travelling to the Middle East, especially Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories. "The tense situation in the Middle East region persists," said the foreign ministry. "The situation in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict zone, as well as in the area of the 'Blue Line' between Lebanon and Israel, remains unstable." "We strongly recommend that Russian citizens refrain from travelling to the region, especially to Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories, except in cases of extreme necessity," it added. - Other countries that have warned their citizens against travelling to the Middle East include Norway, Britain, Canada and Australia. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis: List of countries that have issued advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine & Iran

<p>Iran launched a drone salvo at Israel on Saturday (Apr 13) which the Israeli military said would take hours to reach their target.</p>

<p>Iraqi security sources said that dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran toward Israel over Iraqi airspace.</p>

<p>"Dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran in the direction of Israel over Iraqi airspace," news agency Reuters quoted two security sources in Iraq as saying.</p>

<p>The Iranian Press TV dubbed it as "extensive drone strikes" by the Revolutionary Guards.</p>

<p>The Israeli army said that sirens would blow up in the threatened areas further adding that its defences were well-equipped to tackle them.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-irgc-seizes-israeli-affiliated-vessel-with-indian-nationals-onboard-710873">India in touch with Iranian authorities to ensure release of Indian nationals</a></p>

<h2><strong>Israel is 'prepared for every scenario,' says Netanyahu</strong></h2>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement saying that Israel was prepared for an attack by Iran further adding that it was ready "for any scenario" as Iran launched dozens of drones.</p>

<p>"In recent weeks, Israel has been preparing for a direct attack by Iran. Our defensive systems are deployed; we are ready for any scenario, both defensively and offensively," Netanyahu said in a televised address.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran launched a drone salvo at Israel on Saturday (Apr 13) which the Israeli military said would take hours to reach their target. Iraqi security sources said that dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran toward Israel over Iraqi airspace.

Iran launched a drone salvo at Israel on Saturday (Apr 13) which the Israeli military said would take hours to reach their target. Iraqi security sources said that dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran toward Israel over Iraqi airspace. "Dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran in the direction of Israel over Iraqi airspace," news agency Reuters quoted two security sources in Iraq as saying. The Iranian Press TV dubbed it as "extensive drone strikes" by the Revolutionary Guards. The Israeli army said that sirens would blow up in the threatened areas further adding that its defences were well-equipped to tackle them. Also read: India in touch with Iranian authorities to ensure release of Indian nationals Israel is 'prepared for every scenario,' says Netanyahu Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement saying that Israel was prepared for an attack by Iran further adding that it was ready "for any scenario" as Iran launched dozens of drones. "In recent weeks, Israel has been preparing for a direct attack by Iran. Our defensive systems are deployed; we are ready for any scenario, both defensively and offensively," Netanyahu said in a televised address. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran launches dozens of drones at Israel, PM Netanyahu says country 'prepared for every scenario'

<p>United States President Joe Biden returned to Washington on Saturday afternoon (Apr 13) as he plans to hold discussion with his national security team amid an escalation of tensions in West Asia.</p>

<p>The development comes hours after Biden said that he expects an Iranian attack against Israel "sooner, rather than later."</p>

<p>The US president was on a trip to Delaware, which the White House said he cut short to discuss the current happenings in the Middle East.</p>

<p>Tehran has vowed retaliation in response to an Israeli strike on Iran's embassy compound in Damascus last week that claimed the life of a senior commander in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' overseas Quds Force along with six other officers.</p>

<h2><strong>US Defense Secretary speaks with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier on Saturday, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to discuss "urgent regional threats," and echoed full support from the United States for its ally Israel against the attacks launched by Iran and its proxies.</p>

<p>Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, also shared a social media post on the same lines reiterating US support for his Israeli counterpart, Tzachi Hanegbi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden, on Friday, issued a stern warning to Iran against retaliatory attacks while also predicting that the attacks may be imminent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-irgc-seizes-israeli-affiliated-vessel-with-indian-nationals-onboard-710873">India in touch with Iranian authorities to ensure release of Indian nationals</a></p>

<p>"We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," the US president said.</p>

<h2><strong>Countries warn citizens against travel to Israel, Iran</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, several countries including India, France, Poland, and Russia have warned their citizens against travelling to Israel and Iran.</p>

<p>"In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice. All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves," the Indian foreign ministry said in a statement on Friday.</p>

<p>The French foreign ministry advised citizens to "refrain absolutely" from travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, or the Palestinian territories in the coming days.</p>

<p>Germany, asked its citizens to leave Iran, adding, "German citizens are at concrete risk of being arbitrarily arrested and interrogated and being given long prison sentences. Dual citizens with Iranian and German nationality are especially at risk."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden returned to Washington on Saturday afternoon (Apr 13) as he plans to hold discussion with his national security team amid an escalation of tensions in West Asia.

United States President Joe Biden returned to Washington on Saturday afternoon (Apr 13) as he plans to hold discussion with his national security team amid an escalation of tensions in West Asia. The development comes hours after Biden said that he expects an Iranian attack against Israel "sooner, rather than later." The US president was on a trip to Delaware, which the White House said he cut short to discuss the current happenings in the Middle East. Tehran has vowed retaliation in response to an Israeli strike on Iran's embassy compound in Damascus last week that claimed the life of a senior commander in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' overseas Quds Force along with six other officers. US Defense Secretary speaks with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant Earlier on Saturday, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to discuss "urgent regional threats," and echoed full support from the United States for its ally Israel against the attacks launched by Iran and its proxies. Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, also shared a social media post on the same lines reiterating US support for his Israeli counterpart, Tzachi Hanegbi. Biden, on Friday, issued a stern warning to Iran against retaliatory attacks while also predicting that the attacks may be imminent. Also read: India in touch with Iranian authorities to ensure release of Indian nationals "We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," the US president said. Countries warn citizens against travel to Israel, Iran Meanwhile, several countries including India, France, Poland, and Russia have warned their citizens against travelling to Israel and Iran. "In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice. All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves," the Indian foreign ministry said in a statement on Friday. The French foreign ministry advised citizens to "refrain absolutely" from travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, or the Palestinian territories in the coming days. Germany, asked its citizens to leave Iran, adding, "German citizens are at concrete risk of being arbitrarily arrested and interrogated and being given long prison sentences. Dual citizens with Iranian and German nationality are especially at risk." (With inputs from agencies)

Biden cuts short Delaware trip, returns to Washington to consult national security amid West Asia crisis

<p>Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy was on Saturday (Apr 13) evening hit by stones during an election campaign in Vijayawada.</p>

<p>The YSR Congress supremo was pelted aboard a bus while he was campaigning as part of his 'Memantha Siddham' (we are all ready) bus yatra.</p>

<p>He was greeting people when an unidentified individual hurled stones at him, wounding him on his left eyebrow.</p>

<p>"The stone struck the CM while he was acknowledging the crowds as part of his bus tour at Vivekananda School Centre in Singh Nagar, Vijayawada," said a statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).</p>

<p>CM Jagan was immediately provided first-aid on the bus.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy (<a href="https://twitter.com/ysjagan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ysjagan</a>) arrives at the Government General Hospital in Vijayawada after being injured during a roadshow. <a href="https://t.co/YQ7K4YIPwH">pic.twitter.com/YQ7K4YIPwH</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1779220930562027546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>MLA Vellampalli, who was next to Jagan too sustained an injury in his left eye, said the party sources.</p>

<p>The Andhra Pradesh chief minister then continued his campaign after receiving first aid, the sources added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-may-vikramaditya-singh-against-kangana-ranaut-in-himachals-mandi-710936">Congress fields Vikramaditya Singh against Kangana Ranaut from Mandi in Himachal</a></p>

<p>A video of the incident that has surfaced on social media shows CM Jagan standing atop the vehicle and greeting crowds during the bus yatra.</p>

<p>The footage then shows people standing around him wiping his forehead with a handkerchief initially.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Lok Sabha Elections 2024 | Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy injured during Memantha Siddham Bus Yatra.<br />
<br />
According to YSRCP, an unidentified individual pelted a stone at the CM, injuring him on his left eyebrow. His security team was alerted and it… <a href="https://t.co/kfBFlMpnhp">pic.twitter.com/kfBFlMpnhp</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1779183715337531877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>He then can be seen entering into the bus where doctors immediately provided first aid to him.</p>

<p>YSRCP leaders have put the blame on TDP for the "attack".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy (<a href="https://twitter.com/ysjagan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ysjagan</a>) receives first aid after being injured during campaigning in Vijayawada. <a href="https://t.co/OUeJ1a7cup">pic.twitter.com/OUeJ1a7cup</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1779175794884886983?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reddy commenced his 21-day election campaign bus tour from Idupulupaya in Kadapa district to Icchapuram in Srikakulam district.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished a speedy recovery to the Andhra Pradesh chief minister.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I pray for the speedy recovery and good health of Andhra Pradesh CM <a href="https://twitter.com/ysjagan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ysjagan</a> Garu.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1779204397479919955?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi took to his official X account and&nbsp;wrote, "I pray for the speedy recovery and good health of Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Garu."</p>

<p>Elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled on May 13 and the counting of votes will take place on June 4.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy was on Saturday (Apr 13) evening hit by stones during an election campaign in Vijayawada. The YSR Congress supremo was pelted aboard a bus while he was campaigning as part of his 'Memantha Siddham' (we are all ready) bus yatra.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy was on Saturday (Apr 13) evening hit by stones during an election campaign in Vijayawada. The YSR Congress supremo was pelted aboard a bus while he was campaigning as part of his 'Memantha Siddham' (we are all ready) bus yatra. He was greeting people when an unidentified individual hurled stones at him, wounding him on his left eyebrow. "The stone struck the CM while he was acknowledging the crowds as part of his bus tour at Vivekananda School Centre in Singh Nagar, Vijayawada," said a statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO). CM Jagan was immediately provided first-aid on the bus. VIDEO | Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy (@ysjagan) arrives at the Government General Hospital in Vijayawada after being injured during a roadshow. pic.twitter.com/YQ7K4YIPwH — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 13, 2024 × MLA Vellampalli, who was next to Jagan too sustained an injury in his left eye, said the party sources. The Andhra Pradesh chief minister then continued his campaign after receiving first aid, the sources added. Also read: Congress fields Vikramaditya Singh against Kangana Ranaut from Mandi in Himachal A video of the incident that has surfaced on social media shows CM Jagan standing atop the vehicle and greeting crowds during the bus yatra. The footage then shows people standing around him wiping his forehead with a handkerchief initially. #WATCH | Lok Sabha Elections 2024 | Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy injured during Memantha Siddham Bus Yatra. According to YSRCP, an unidentified individual pelted a stone at the CM, injuring him on his left eyebrow. His security team was alerted and it… pic.twitter.com/kfBFlMpnhp — ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2024 × He then can be seen entering into the bus where doctors immediately provided first aid to him. YSRCP leaders have put the blame on TDP for the "attack". VIDEO | Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy (@ysjagan) receives first aid after being injured during campaigning in Vijayawada. pic.twitter.com/OUeJ1a7cup — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 13, 2024 × Reddy commenced his 21-day election campaign bus tour from Idupulupaya in Kadapa district to Icchapuram in Srikakulam district. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished a speedy recovery to the Andhra Pradesh chief minister. I pray for the speedy recovery and good health of Andhra Pradesh CM @ysjagan Garu. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 13, 2024 × PM Modi took to his official X account and wrote, "I pray for the speedy recovery and good health of Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Garu." Elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled on May 13 and the counting of votes will take place on June 4. (With inputs from agencies)

Andhra Pradesh CM Jagan Mohan Reddy injured in stone pelting incident during election campaign

Middle East crisis: List of countries that have issued advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine and Iran


Amid the escalating tensions in the West Asia region, several countries have issued an advisory asking people not to travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon.


Here's the list of countries that have warned against travel to Israel, Iran, Palestine and Lebanon.

Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to all Indians asking them not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice.


Poland's foreign ministry on Friday issued an advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon.


The French foreign ministry on Friday released a statement on social media platform X stating that the French citizens should avoid travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories.


US on Thursday said that it had instructed its employees residing in Israel to avoid travelling outside of greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Be'er Sheva areas.


Russia also issued an advisory against travel to Middle East, especially Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories.


Other countries that have warned citizens against travelling to Middle East include Norway, Britain, Canada and Australia.


Middle East crisis: List of countries that have issued advisory against travel to Israel, Iran

<p>A wild elephant that fell into a water-filled pit in Kottappady region of Ernakulam district in Kerala on Friday (Apr 12) morning was rescued by the police and the Wildlife Department in the evening on the same day.</p>

<p>Section 144 Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) was announced in the area for 24 hours to tranquilise and rescue the elephant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chief Wildlife Warden, as per ANI reports, had permitted to tranquilise the elephant whenever the weather was suitable.</p>

<p>However, the police rescued the animal without using the tranquiliser.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Wild elephant rescued from the water-filled pit in Kottappady of Ernakulam district in Kerala <a href="https://t.co/i0FWRvLiSq">pic.twitter.com/i0FWRvLiSq</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1778752104179306574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Police earlier released a statement saying that they received information about the incident early in the morning.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Kerala: A wild elephant fell into a water-filled pit in Kottappady of Ernakulam district. Efforts are underway to rescue it.<br />
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Section 144 CrPC has been announced in the area of Kotappadi panchayat for 24 hours to tranquilise and rescue the elephant. The Chief Wildlife… <a href="https://t.co/gnBardXKV6">pic.twitter.com/gnBardXKV6</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1778745380936765890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, a police official, sharing updates about the situation said, "All the concerned officials have reached the locality. A decision on how to rescue the elephant and transport it safely to the forest will be taken soon."</p>

<p>The well, where the elephant fell inside, was located inside a private rubber plantation and did not have any side walls.</p>

<p>The police and forest officials had cordoned off the area.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the locals took to the streets and staged demonstrations demanding authorities to come up with a permanent solution after multiple incidents of wild animal incursion into the human habitat were reported in the area.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A wild elephant that fell into a water-filled pit in Kottappady region of Ernakulam district in Kerala on Friday (Apr 12) morning was rescued by the police and the Wildlife Department in the evening on the same day.

A wild elephant that fell into a water-filled pit in Kottappady region of Ernakulam district in Kerala on Friday (Apr 12) morning was rescued by the police and the Wildlife Department in the evening on the same day. Section 144 Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) was announced in the area for 24 hours to tranquilise and rescue the elephant. The Chief Wildlife Warden, as per ANI reports, had permitted to tranquilise the elephant whenever the weather was suitable. However, the police rescued the animal without using the tranquiliser. #WATCH | Wild elephant rescued from the water-filled pit in Kottappady of Ernakulam district in Kerala pic.twitter.com/i0FWRvLiSq — ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024 × Police earlier released a statement saying that they received information about the incident early in the morning. #WATCH | Kerala: A wild elephant fell into a water-filled pit in Kottappady of Ernakulam district. Efforts are underway to rescue it. Section 144 CrPC has been announced in the area of Kotappadi panchayat for 24 hours to tranquilise and rescue the elephant. The Chief Wildlife… pic.twitter.com/gnBardXKV6 — ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024 × Earlier, a police official, sharing updates about the situation said, "All the concerned officials have reached the locality. A decision on how to rescue the elephant and transport it safely to the forest will be taken soon." The well, where the elephant fell inside, was located inside a private rubber plantation and did not have any side walls. The police and forest officials had cordoned off the area. Meanwhile, the locals took to the streets and staged demonstrations demanding authorities to come up with a permanent solution after multiple incidents of wild animal incursion into the human habitat were reported in the area. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Wild elephant falls into well inside private rubber plantation in Kerala

<p>The All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Saturday (Apr 13) hit out at Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury for allegedly getting into a brawl with a TMC worker on the road.</p>

<p>The party took to its official X handle and shared footage which showed Chowdhury in a purported altercation with TMC workers in Berhampore.</p>

<p>In the social media posting, the party alleged that Chowdhury's actions were a clear testament to his fear of losing in the upcoming elections.</p>

<p>"Your thuggery in Baharampur won't go unnoticed. Your fear of losing elections is pretty evident from your actions. But using muscle power to intimidate our workers won't help you in anyway!" TMC wrote in a posting on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">SHEER DISPLAY OF HOOLIGANISM BY ADHIR RANJAN CHOWDHURY<br />
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Your thuggery in Baharampur won't go unnoticed. Your fear of losing elections is pretty evident from your actions. But using muscle power to intimidate our workers won't help you in anyway!<br />
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SHAME! <a href="https://t.co/eQFgFD0IRD">pic.twitter.com/eQFgFD0IRD</a></p>
— All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/AITCofficial/status/1779077205475352756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>It is pertinent to note that TMC candidate Yusuf Pathan is also contesting from the same Lok Sabha seat as Chowdhury which is Behrampore.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-slams-bjp-over-safe-haven-for-terrorists-remark-after-nia-nabs-bengaluru-blast-accused-from-kolkata-710610">Mamata slams BJP over 'safe haven for terrorists' remark after NIA nabs Bengaluru blast accused from Kolkata</a></p>

<h2><strong>'Nothing but a ploy to stop me,' says Chowdhury</strong></h2>

<p>Chowdhury later released clarification over TMC's post saying that a group of unidentified "drunken" youths "stopped" his car and chanted "go back" slogans.</p>

<p>He stated that this was a practice started by the Trinamool Congress during last year's civic polls.</p>

<p>"This is nothing but a ploy to stop me. The local TMC is behind this. They want people not to work for the Congress party. This is the same thing they had done during the civic polls last year," Chowdhury told reporters.</p>

<p>"They were yelling: Go back, go back!! I stopped and asked them what their complaints were. Initially, only one person was there, but then several others joined him. I realised that it was organised by the TMC. But they would not be able to stop me in this way," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Saturday (Apr 13) hit out at Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury for allegedly getting into a brawl with a TMC worker on the road.

The All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Saturday (Apr 13) hit out at Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury for allegedly getting into a brawl with a TMC worker on the road. The party took to its official X handle and shared footage which showed Chowdhury in a purported altercation with TMC workers in Berhampore. In the social media posting, the party alleged that Chowdhury's actions were a clear testament to his fear of losing in the upcoming elections. "Your thuggery in Baharampur won't go unnoticed. Your fear of losing elections is pretty evident from your actions. But using muscle power to intimidate our workers won't help you in anyway!" TMC wrote in a posting on X. SHEER DISPLAY OF HOOLIGANISM BY ADHIR RANJAN CHOWDHURY Your thuggery in Baharampur won't go unnoticed. Your fear of losing elections is pretty evident from your actions. But using muscle power to intimidate our workers won't help you in anyway! SHAME! pic.twitter.com/eQFgFD0IRD — All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) April 13, 2024 × It is pertinent to note that TMC candidate Yusuf Pathan is also contesting from the same Lok Sabha seat as Chowdhury which is Behrampore. Also read: Mamata slams BJP over 'safe haven for terrorists' remark after NIA nabs Bengaluru blast accused from Kolkata 'Nothing but a ploy to stop me,' says Chowdhury Chowdhury later released clarification over TMC's post saying that a group of unidentified "drunken" youths "stopped" his car and chanted "go back" slogans. He stated that this was a practice started by the Trinamool Congress during last year's civic polls. "This is nothing but a ploy to stop me. The local TMC is behind this. They want people not to work for the Congress party. This is the same thing they had done during the civic polls last year," Chowdhury told reporters. "They were yelling: Go back, go back!! I stopped and asked them what their complaints were. Initially, only one person was there, but then several others joined him. I realised that it was organised by the TMC. But they would not be able to stop me in this way," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

TMC shares video of Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury’s altercation with party worker; ‘display of hooliganism’

<p>Suspected Islamist rebels killed at least 10 civilians in an attack on Friday near the city of Beni in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, local authorities and a U.N. source said.</p>

<p>The assailants fired guns at people working in fields in Mulekera commune outside Beni, Mulekera Mayor Ngongo Mayanga said on Saturday.</p>

<p>Seven bodies have been collected so far, including those of three women, with further five victims reported elsewhere, he said.</p>

<p>"Certainly there are other bodies that we will find as the search continues," he said by phone, blaming the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel group.</p>

<p>A source in the U.N. peacekeeping mission in eastern Congo said 10 people were killed.</p>

<p>The ADF originates from neighbouring Uganda. Now based in eastern Congo, it has pledged allegiance to Islamic State and mounts frequent attacks, further destabilising a region where many militant groups are active.</p>

<p>A witness to the latest attack said he was working in a field when he heard the sound of bullets shortly after parting from his daughter-in-law.</p>

<p>"My daughter-in-law went in the opposite direction, but unfortunately that's when she was killed," he said, describing how he fled into the forest and spent the night there out of fear of the attackers.</p>

<p>Decades of conflict between the army and numerous rebel groups have destabilised eastern Congo and fuelled a long-running humanitarian crisis.</p>

<p>Attacks have intensified over the past year and the number of people displaced by the violence stood at 7.1 million at the end of March, according to the U.N. humanitarian agency OCHA.</p>


Suspected Islamist rebels killed at least 10 civilians in an attack on Friday near the city of Beni in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, local authorities and a U.

Suspected Islamist rebels killed at least 10 civilians in an attack on Friday near the city of Beni in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, local authorities and a U.N. source said. The assailants fired guns at people working in fields in Mulekera commune outside Beni, Mulekera Mayor Ngongo Mayanga said on Saturday. Seven bodies have been collected so far, including those of three women, with further five victims reported elsewhere, he said. "Certainly there are other bodies that we will find as the search continues," he said by phone, blaming the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel group. A source in the U.N. peacekeeping mission in eastern Congo said 10 people were killed. The ADF originates from neighbouring Uganda. Now based in eastern Congo, it has pledged allegiance to Islamic State and mounts frequent attacks, further destabilising a region where many militant groups are active. A witness to the latest attack said he was working in a field when he heard the sound of bullets shortly after parting from his daughter-in-law. "My daughter-in-law went in the opposite direction, but unfortunately that's when she was killed," he said, describing how he fled into the forest and spent the night there out of fear of the attackers. Decades of conflict between the army and numerous rebel groups have destabilised eastern Congo and fuelled a long-running humanitarian crisis. Attacks have intensified over the past year and the number of people displaced by the violence stood at 7.1 million at the end of March, according to the U.N. humanitarian agency OCHA.

Suspected Islamist rebels kill at least 10 in eastern Congo

<p>New South Wales Police in a news briefing on Saturday (Apr 13) said it is believed that the knife attack in Australia's Sydney is not terror-related.</p>

<p>Commissioner Karen Webb confirmed the death of four women and one man at the shopping centre while another woman later succumbed to wounds in the hospital.</p>

<p>Webb said that the suspect was a 40-year-old man, however, the officials are still waiting to conduct a full investigation into the matter before confirming the identity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also said that this was not a terrorism incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We know a little bit about this person, but as I said, we're waiting to confirm his identification. It's not a terrorism incident,” Webb said during a news conference.</p>

<p>“Later this evening, we became aware of who we believe the offender is. And we believe that he is a 40-year-old man. However, we are waiting to formally identify him and we cannot speculate yet on his identification. But let me assure you that we are confident that there is no ongoing risk and we are dealing with one person who is now deceased,” she said.</p>

<p>“There were four female women deceased in the shopping centre and one male and subsequently another female passed away in hospital, taking it to a total of six plus the death of the offender,” she added.</p>

<p>The assailant who claimed the lives of six in a knife rampage in Sydney's shopping centre&nbsp; in the beachside suburb of Bondi was shot dead by the police.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-people-stabbed-one-man-shot-in-sydney-mall-710775">Six killed, 8 hurt in stabbing at Sydney shopping centre; attacker shot dead</a></p>

<p>Out of the six deceased victims, five were women, while eight others, including a nine-month-old baby, sustained stab wounds and were rushed to hospital immediately.</p>

<h2><strong>'Attacker appears to have acted alone,' says Australian PM&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in a statement said that the attacker appeared to have "acted alone".</p>

<p>He further said that the speculation on the incident would not be helpful at this stage of the probe.</p>

<p>"It would appear that this person has acted alone. The motives are not known yet and speculation on that would not be helpful at this time," Albanese said.</p>

<p>He then appreciated the “heroism” of ordinary Australians who exhibited bravery in times of danger.</p>

<p>"Today Bondi Junction was the scene of shocking violence. But it was also witness to the humanity and the heroism of our fellow Australians, our brave police, our first responders, and of course, everyday people who could never have imagined that they would face such a moment," the Australian PM said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


New South Wales Police in a news briefing on Saturday (Apr 13) said it is believed that the knife attack in Australia's Sydney is not terror-related. Commissioner Karen Webb confirmed the death of four women and one man at the shopping centre while another woman later succumbed to wounds in the hospital.

New South Wales Police in a news briefing on Saturday (Apr 13) said it is believed that the knife attack in Australia's Sydney is not terror-related. Commissioner Karen Webb confirmed the death of four women and one man at the shopping centre while another woman later succumbed to wounds in the hospital. Webb said that the suspect was a 40-year-old man, however, the officials are still waiting to conduct a full investigation into the matter before confirming the identity. She also said that this was not a terrorism incident. “We know a little bit about this person, but as I said, we're waiting to confirm his identification. It's not a terrorism incident,” Webb said during a news conference. “Later this evening, we became aware of who we believe the offender is. And we believe that he is a 40-year-old man. However, we are waiting to formally identify him and we cannot speculate yet on his identification. But let me assure you that we are confident that there is no ongoing risk and we are dealing with one person who is now deceased,” she said. “There were four female women deceased in the shopping centre and one male and subsequently another female passed away in hospital, taking it to a total of six plus the death of the offender,” she added. The assailant who claimed the lives of six in a knife rampage in Sydney's shopping centre in the beachside suburb of Bondi was shot dead by the police. Also read: Six killed, 8 hurt in stabbing at Sydney shopping centre; attacker shot dead Out of the six deceased victims, five were women, while eight others, including a nine-month-old baby, sustained stab wounds and were rushed to hospital immediately. 'Attacker appears to have acted alone,' says Australian PM Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in a statement said that the attacker appeared to have "acted alone". He further said that the speculation on the incident would not be helpful at this stage of the probe. "It would appear that this person has acted alone. The motives are not known yet and speculation on that would not be helpful at this time," Albanese said. He then appreciated the “heroism” of ordinary Australians who exhibited bravery in times of danger. "Today Bondi Junction was the scene of shocking violence. But it was also witness to the humanity and the heroism of our fellow Australians, our brave police, our first responders, and of course, everyday people who could never have imagined that they would face such a moment," the Australian PM said. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia knife attack: Was it terror-related? Here's what police say about suspect

<p>In a bid to de-escalate tensions in the West Asian region, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi and urged Beijing to assert its influence to dissuade Iran from launching an offensive against Israel.</p>

<p>Wang further urged the United States to play “a constructive role” in the Middle East during the telephonic conversation, the US State Department released a statement saying.</p>

<p>After the phone call, China said that Wang also expressed China's "condemnation" of the strike on an Iranian consulate building in Syria's Damascus.</p>

<p>“China will continue to play a constructive role in the resolution of the Middle East issue… and contribute to cooling down the situation,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said as per The Times Of Israel report.</p>

<p>“The United States side in particular should play a constructive role.”</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken speaks to Turkish, Chinese, Saudi Arabian counterparts&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Blinken also spoke to his Turkish, Chinese and Saudi Arabian counterparts emphasizing that escalation in the Middle East is not in anyone's interest, said the US State Department said on Thursday (Apr 11).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-advised-not-to-travel-to-iran-and-israel-till-further-notice-710555">Middle East crisis: Indians advised not to travel to Iran and Israel</a></p>

<p>"He (Secretary of State Antony Blinken) talked to the Turkish foreign minister last night. He talked to Wang Yi this morning and then early this morning then talked to the Saudi foreign minister later this morning," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller during a regular news briefing.</p>

<p>"We have been engaged in a series of contacts, not just to his level, but other levels, too, to talk to foreign counterparts, to send this very clear message to Iran that they should not escalate this conflict," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Escalation of conflict in Middle East</strong></p>

<p>This comes after the United States issued concerns saying that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent. US-based media outlets claimed that the strike could involve high-precision missile and drone attacks at military and government sites in Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant also said on Thursday that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran. "A direct Iranian attack will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, according to remarks issued by his office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tehran has already issued a warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said this week that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a bid to de-escalate tensions in the West Asian region, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi and urged Beijing to assert its influence to dissuade Iran from launching an offensive against Israel.

In a bid to de-escalate tensions in the West Asian region, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi and urged Beijing to assert its influence to dissuade Iran from launching an offensive against Israel. Wang further urged the United States to play “a constructive role” in the Middle East during the telephonic conversation, the US State Department released a statement saying. After the phone call, China said that Wang also expressed China's "condemnation" of the strike on an Iranian consulate building in Syria's Damascus. “China will continue to play a constructive role in the resolution of the Middle East issue… and contribute to cooling down the situation,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said as per The Times Of Israel report. “The United States side in particular should play a constructive role.” Blinken speaks to Turkish, Chinese, Saudi Arabian counterparts Blinken also spoke to his Turkish, Chinese and Saudi Arabian counterparts emphasizing that escalation in the Middle East is not in anyone's interest, said the US State Department said on Thursday (Apr 11). Also read: Middle East crisis: Indians advised not to travel to Iran and Israel "He (Secretary of State Antony Blinken) talked to the Turkish foreign minister last night. He talked to Wang Yi this morning and then early this morning then talked to the Saudi foreign minister later this morning," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller during a regular news briefing. "We have been engaged in a series of contacts, not just to his level, but other levels, too, to talk to foreign counterparts, to send this very clear message to Iran that they should not escalate this conflict," he said. Escalation of conflict in Middle East This comes after the United States issued concerns saying that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent. US-based media outlets claimed that the strike could involve high-precision missile and drone attacks at military and government sites in Israel. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant also said on Thursday that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran. "A direct Iranian attack will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, according to remarks issued by his office. Tehran has already issued a warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said this week that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis: Blinken asks China to assert influence to dissuade Iran from striking Israel

<p>West Bengal Chief Minister and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday (Apr 12) hit out at the BJP after the leader of the saffron party,&nbsp;Amit Malviya, called the eastern state a "safe haven" for terrorists.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) nabbed two key suspects in connection with the Bengaluru Rameshwaram cafe blast.</p>

<p>The detainees include Mussavir Hussain Shazeb, the man who placed the IED at the cafe, and Abdul Matheen Taha, the 'mastermind' behind the explosion.</p>

<h2><strong>'Safe haven' for terrorists</strong></h2>

<p>Following the arrests, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) IT cell chief Amit Malviya took to his official X handle and alleged that the state had turned into a "safe haven" for terrorists.</p>

<p>"NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists," Malviya wrote in a post&nbsp;on X.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-rameshwaram-cafe-blast-nia-nabs-the-mastermind-and-man-who-planted-ied-from-near-kolkata-710416">Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast: NIA nabs 'mastermind' and man who planted IED from near Kolkata</a></p>

<p>Mamata, while addressing a rally in Cooch Behar, said that the accused were arrested in a joint operation conducted by the central intelligence agencies along with the West Bengal Police from Purba Medinipur.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka.<br />
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West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe…</p>
— Amit Malviya (मोदी का परिवार) (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1778653955108540858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Heard one BJP leader saying that a bomb blast took place in Bangalore. The accused are from Karnataka, not from here. They were hiding in Bengal for two hours and in two hours our police managed to nab them. And they are saying that Bengal is not safe?," said the chief minister.</p>

<p>The West Bengal Police also shared a post on social media stating, "Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Falsehood at its worst!<br />
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Contrary to the claims made by <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@amitmalviya</a>, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies. (1/2)</p>
— West Bengal Police (@WBPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/WBPolice/status/1778666483310334227?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies. West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities," the state police further said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


West Bengal Chief Minister and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday (Apr 12) hit out at the BJP after the leader of the saffron party, Amit Malviya, called the eastern state a "safe haven" for terrorists.

West Bengal Chief Minister and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday (Apr 12) hit out at the BJP after the leader of the saffron party, Amit Malviya, called the eastern state a "safe haven" for terrorists. Earlier in the day, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) nabbed two key suspects in connection with the Bengaluru Rameshwaram cafe blast. The detainees include Mussavir Hussain Shazeb, the man who placed the IED at the cafe, and Abdul Matheen Taha, the 'mastermind' behind the explosion. 'Safe haven' for terrorists Following the arrests, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) IT cell chief Amit Malviya took to his official X handle and alleged that the state had turned into a "safe haven" for terrorists. "NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists," Malviya wrote in a post on X. Also read: Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast: NIA nabs 'mastermind' and man who planted IED from near Kolkata Mamata, while addressing a rally in Cooch Behar, said that the accused were arrested in a joint operation conducted by the central intelligence agencies along with the West Bengal Police from Purba Medinipur. NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe… — Amit Malviya (मोदी का परिवार) (@amitmalviya) April 12, 2024 × "Heard one BJP leader saying that a bomb blast took place in Bangalore. The accused are from Karnataka, not from here. They were hiding in Bengal for two hours and in two hours our police managed to nab them. And they are saying that Bengal is not safe?," said the chief minister. The West Bengal Police also shared a post on social media stating, "Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies." Falsehood at its worst! Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies. (1/2) — West Bengal Police (@WBPolice) April 12, 2024 × "The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies. West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities," the state police further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Mamata slams BJP over 'safe haven for terrorists' remark after NIA nabs Bengaluru blast accused from Kolkata

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