<p>The citizens in the northwestern city of Bursa in Turkiye were left staggered after a lenticular cloud, resembling a UFO, appeared in the sky on Thursday morning. Seeing the UFO-resembling cloud, the people recorded it and clicked its pictures on their mobile phones.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/pentagon-receives-several-hundreds-of-new-ufo-reports-no-evidence-of-alien-life-so-far-543908">Pentagon receives 'several hundreds' of new UFO reports, no evidence of alien life so far</a></p>

<p>The cloud remained in the sky for an hour and was seen from the Gursu, Osmangazi, Kestel, Nilufer and Yildirim districts of Bursa.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Turkey's Bursa region witnessed an incredible cloud formation… <a href="https://t.co/wOWnRTETHp">pic.twitter.com/wOWnRTETHp</a></p>
— Tansu YEĞEN (@TansuYegen) <a href="https://twitter.com/TansuYegen/status/1616321090782994434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The website of the General Directorate of Meteorology shared information which stated that lens clouds were formed in the sky due to rough wind fluctuations and it is indicative of turbulence shifting downward in the sky.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | South Korea's missile test causes UFO scare</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-koreas-missile-test-causes-ufo-scare-548190/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>A lot of citizens who were amazed by this natural phenomenon recorded the spectacular sight of the formation of a lens cloud on their mobile phones. The video and photos of clouds looking like UFOs were widely shared later on social media across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The stationary cloud, which is formed due to an orographic event, appears in any geographic area where foehn winds are present.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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The citizens in the northwestern city of Bursa in Turkiye were left staggered after a lenticular cloud, resembling a UFO, appeared in the sky on Thursday morning.

The citizens in the northwestern city of Bursa in Turkiye were left staggered after a lenticular cloud, resembling a UFO, appeared in the sky on Thursday morning. Seeing the UFO-resembling cloud, the people recorded it and clicked its pictures on their mobile phones. ALSO READ| Pentagon receives 'several hundreds' of new UFO reports, no evidence of alien life so far The cloud remained in the sky for an hour and was seen from the Gursu, Osmangazi, Kestel, Nilufer and Yildirim districts of Bursa. Turkey's Bursa region witnessed an incredible cloud formation… pic.twitter.com/wOWnRTETHp — Tansu YEĞEN (@TansuYegen) January 20, 2023 × The website of the General Directorate of Meteorology shared information which stated that lens clouds were formed in the sky due to rough wind fluctuations and it is indicative of turbulence shifting downward in the sky. WATCH | South Korea's missile test causes UFO scare A lot of citizens who were amazed by this natural phenomenon recorded the spectacular sight of the formation of a lens cloud on their mobile phones. The video and photos of clouds looking like UFOs were widely shared later on social media across the country. The stationary cloud, which is formed due to an orographic event, appears in any geographic area where foehn winds are present. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

A UFO? Citizens astonished after lens cloud in shape of UFO appears in Turkiye's sky

<p>The cameras installed in the doorbells of residents captured a celestial light passing through the night sky which appeared like a meteor in Oklahoma, United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the footage shared on social media platforms, a green meteor is seen flying through the sky like a blazing fireball as residents reported that they woke up to a sonic boom that they heard in Friday morning's early hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-ufo-citizens-staggered-after-lens-cloud-in-shape-of-ufo-appears-in-turkiyes-sky-554589">A UFO? Citizens astonished after lens cloud in shape of UFO appears in Turkiye's sky</a></p>

<p>Fox 23 meteorologist Laura Mock shared the footage captured in her dashcam on Twitter. In the video, a bright green blazing meteor is seen passing through the sky.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bright meteor over Tulsa this morning! Video is from Patricia Stanton in Broken Arrow. Camera is facing south. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/okwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#okwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/kHBjPmwpir">pic.twitter.com/kHBjPmwpir</a></p>
— Laura Mock ⛈ (@LauraMockWX) <a href="https://twitter.com/LauraMockWX/status/1616388006608359426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, various residents also shared videos of the meteor on social media platforms. Some even reported that they felt their house shake when the meteor passed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The footage captured in the doorbell camera is being widely shared on social media and is attracting comments from netizens across the world. One user said it was, “Optimus Prime’s return,” while another commented, “I told you Hogwarts is real.” One user wrote, “That’s Superman.” However, an inquisitive user quizzed, “Where it landed though?”</p>

<p>However, an official statement was released by the National Weather Service in Tulsa on Twitter after it was sent multiple reports on the appearance of a meteor in the night sky and stated that it was spotted by a lightning detector over Wagoner country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Meteor lights up the sky over Norway: Spectacular sight of meteors burning up in the atmosphere</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/meteor-lights-up-the-sky-over-norway-spectacular-sight-of-meteors-burning-up-in-the-atmosphere-535992/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“We have received multiple reports this morning, including videos, of a meteor that occurred over northeast Oklahoma this morning. This was detected by the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) shown as a blue dot over Wagoner county,” the department wrote.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have have received multiple reports this morning, including videos, of a meteor that occurred over northeast Oklahoma this morning. This was detected by the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) shown as a blue dot over Wagoner county. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/meteor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#meteor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GLM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GLM</a> <a href="https://t.co/I8sCseNB76">pic.twitter.com/I8sCseNB76</a></p>
— NWS Tulsa (@NWStulsa) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWStulsa/status/1616392418282070016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to the meteorologist, an explosion of the fireball took place in the atmosphere which led to a sonic boom that woke up the civilians.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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The cameras installed in the doorbells of residents captured a celestial light passing through the night sky which appeared like a meteor in Oklahoma, United States.

The cameras installed in the doorbells of residents captured a celestial light passing through the night sky which appeared like a meteor in Oklahoma, United States. According to the footage shared on social media platforms, a green meteor is seen flying through the sky like a blazing fireball as residents reported that they woke up to a sonic boom that they heard in Friday morning's early hours. ALSO READ | A UFO? Citizens astonished after lens cloud in shape of UFO appears in Turkiye's sky Fox 23 meteorologist Laura Mock shared the footage captured in her dashcam on Twitter. In the video, a bright green blazing meteor is seen passing through the sky. Bright meteor over Tulsa this morning! Video is from Patricia Stanton in Broken Arrow. Camera is facing south. #okwx pic.twitter.com/kHBjPmwpir — Laura Mock ⛈ (@LauraMockWX) January 20, 2023 × Meanwhile, various residents also shared videos of the meteor on social media platforms. Some even reported that they felt their house shake when the meteor passed. The footage captured in the doorbell camera is being widely shared on social media and is attracting comments from netizens across the world. One user said it was, “Optimus Prime’s return,” while another commented, “I told you Hogwarts is real.” One user wrote, “That’s Superman.” However, an inquisitive user quizzed, “Where it landed though?” However, an official statement was released by the National Weather Service in Tulsa on Twitter after it was sent multiple reports on the appearance of a meteor in the night sky and stated that it was spotted by a lightning detector over Wagoner country. WATCH | Meteor lights up the sky over Norway: Spectacular sight of meteors burning up in the atmosphere “We have received multiple reports this morning, including videos, of a meteor that occurred over northeast Oklahoma this morning. This was detected by the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) shown as a blue dot over Wagoner county,” the department wrote. We have have received multiple reports this morning, including videos, of a meteor that occurred over northeast Oklahoma this morning. This was detected by the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) shown as a blue dot over Wagoner county. #meteor #GLM pic.twitter.com/I8sCseNB76 — NWS Tulsa (@NWStulsa) January 20, 2023 × According to the meteorologist, an explosion of the fireball took place in the atmosphere which led to a sonic boom that woke up the civilians. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH | Green meteor blazes across Oklahoma's sky, people wake up to sonic boom

<p>The Russian troops on Saturday launched an offensive in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine. Earlier, the region's nuclear power plant was captured by Russia. In other news, New Zealand's minister Chris Hipkins, who led the response of the country against the pandemic, will be replacing Jacinda Ardern as the next prime minister of the country. Meanwhile, protesters in huge numbers gathered in Madrid to protest against Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and demand his resignation. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the links to read the full report&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-army-holds-offensive-operations-in-zaporizhzhia-554772">Ukraine war: Russian army holds 'offensive operations' in Zaporizhzhia&nbsp;</a></p>

<p><img alt="Ukraine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be0e8ad0-f85c-4bd1-84db-74f5ca0ba9df" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-21T210556.188.png" /></p>

<p>The Russian army on Saturday (January 21) said that its troops launched an offensive in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region. Earlier in the conflict, Russia had captured the nuclear power plant in the region, where fighting was stalled for weeks, but it reportedly intensified recently.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chris-hipkins-to-replace-jacinda-arden-as-new-zealands-next-prime-minister-554613">Chris Hipkins to replace Jacinda Ardern as New Zealand’s next prime minister</a></p>

<p><br />
<img alt="Chris" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8ea958f-5be0-48fc-9de2-ad1888e81f5c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-21T210614.704.png" /></p>

<p>Minister Chris Hipkins, who led New Zealand’s response against the COVID-19 pandemic, is all set to replace Jacinda Ardern to become the country’s next prime minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-people-stage-protest-against-pm-sanchezs-government-in-spain-554758">Thousands of people stage protest against PM Sanchez's government in Spain</a></p>

<p><br />
<img alt="Spain" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d269c0b-8667-4b6e-951d-76201c02b344" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-21T210629.920.png" /></p>

<p>Thousands gathered in Spain's capital Madrid to protest against the leftist government of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday in a rally supported by the far-right party Vox. The protest has been staged in the year when elections are to be held.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-claims-80-of-population-infected-by-covid-19-554725">China claims 80 per cent of population infected by COVID-19</a></p>

<p><img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62780042-6ba4-4464-a6ea-1a69e9c31de8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-21T210652.288.png" /></p>

<p>The chances of China facing a major Covid-19 rebound in the coming next two or three months is unlikely as 80 per cent of the country's population has been infected by the virus, said a major government scientist on Saturday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-fined-by-police-for-not-weairng-a-seatbelt-554617">UK PM Rishi Sunak fined by police for not wearing seatbelt in car</a></p>

<p><img alt="Sunak" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fae51b1-b663-4adc-a4b5-a91093e2d6e5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-21T210710.999.png" /></p>

<p>The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been fined for not wearing a seatbelt in a moving car. The Lancashire Police, without specifying the name, said that it had issued a fixed penalty with a conditional offer to a 42-year-old man from London, BBC reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-designates-mercenary-group-wagner-as-international-criminal-organisation-554630">US designates mercenary group Wagner as 'international criminal organisation'</a></p>

<p><br />
<img alt="Wagner" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77ce69f8-9e76-4132-8f4e-f5b6dd31fd5c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-21T210725.062.png" /></p>

<p>The United States administration on Friday (January 19) designated Russian mercenary group Wagner as an international criminal organisation with White House national security spokesperson John Kirby saying that the group is committing widespread atrocities and human rights abuses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader">Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader</a></p>

<p><br />
<img alt="Turkey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="732fd5fc-d215-4978-93b4-395d5e0b3f39" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-21T210741.995.png" /></p>

<p>The Turkish government on Saturday cancelled the upcoming visit of the Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson in the wake of right-wing extremist planning a demonstration in Stockholm.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-killed-by-israeli-civilian-at-west-bank-farm-claims-army-554752">Palestinian killed by Israeli civilian at West Bank farm, claims army</a></p>

<p><br />
<img alt="Palestine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b3d6cc3-ee87-42ed-9a2f-74684ab90587" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-21T210800.057.png" /></p>

<p>A Palestinian was shot dead by an Israeli civilian at a settler farm on Saturday in the occupied West Bank after an attempted stabbing attack, stated the army reporting the latest incident as violence escalated in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-fuss-over-german-made-leopard-tanks-as-pressure-mounts-on-berlin-to-approve-delivery-554652">The fuss over German-made Leopard tanks as pressure mounts on Berlin to approve delivery</a></p>

<p><br />
<img alt="Tanks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="db162e72-0d29-4d85-80f7-9a860068ff6a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-21T210828.486.png" /></p>

<p>The Western allied failed to finalise the supply of German-made Leopard tanks to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia. During defence ministers' talks at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Friday, the United States including other allies agreed to send massive military assistance for Kyiv's fight against Russian forces, but the package didn't include the hotly-debated Geman tanks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-says-fta-talks-with-india-well-advanced-seventh-round-soon-554723">UK says FTA talks with India ‘well advanced’, seventh round soon</a></p>

<p><br />
<img alt="UK" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33b9d0ac-1e5e-45d5-b89c-7783e69c9ba8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-21T210846.984.png" /></p>

<p>The negotiations for an ambitious Free Trade Agreement between Britain and India are "well advanced", United Kingdom's Foreign Office Minister for South Asia, Lord Tariq Ahmed said in a parliamentary debate in London's House of Lords.&nbsp;</p>


The Russian troops on Saturday launched an offensive in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine. Earlier, the region's nuclear power plant was captured by Russia. In other news, New Zealand's minister Chris Hipkins, who led the response of the country against the pandemic, will be replacing Jacinda Ardern as the next prime minister of the country.

The Russian troops on Saturday launched an offensive in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine. Earlier, the region's nuclear power plant was captured by Russia. In other news, New Zealand's minister Chris Hipkins, who led the response of the country against the pandemic, will be replacing Jacinda Ardern as the next prime minister of the country. Meanwhile, protesters in huge numbers gathered in Madrid to protest against Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and demand his resignation. Click on the links to read the full report Ukraine war: Russian army holds 'offensive operations' in Zaporizhzhia The Russian army on Saturday (January 21) said that its troops launched an offensive in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region. Earlier in the conflict, Russia had captured the nuclear power plant in the region, where fighting was stalled for weeks, but it reportedly intensified recently. Chris Hipkins to replace Jacinda Ardern as New Zealand’s next prime minister Minister Chris Hipkins, who led New Zealand’s response against the COVID-19 pandemic, is all set to replace Jacinda Ardern to become the country’s next prime minister. Thousands of people stage protest against PM Sanchez's government in Spain Thousands gathered in Spain's capital Madrid to protest against the leftist government of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday in a rally supported by the far-right party Vox. The protest has been staged in the year when elections are to be held. China claims 80 per cent of population infected by COVID-19 The chances of China facing a major Covid-19 rebound in the coming next two or three months is unlikely as 80 per cent of the country's population has been infected by the virus, said a major government scientist on Saturday. UK PM Rishi Sunak fined by police for not wearing seatbelt in car The United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been fined for not wearing a seatbelt in a moving car. The Lancashire Police, without specifying the name, said that it had issued a fixed penalty with a conditional offer to a 42-year-old man from London, BBC reported. US designates mercenary group Wagner as 'international criminal organisation' The United States administration on Friday (January 19) designated Russian mercenary group Wagner as an international criminal organisation with White House national security spokesperson John Kirby saying that the group is committing widespread atrocities and human rights abuses. Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader The Turkish government on Saturday cancelled the upcoming visit of the Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson in the wake of right-wing extremist planning a demonstration in Stockholm. Palestinian killed by Israeli civilian at West Bank farm, claims army A Palestinian was shot dead by an Israeli civilian at a settler farm on Saturday in the occupied West Bank after an attempted stabbing attack, stated the army reporting the latest incident as violence escalated in the region. The fuss over German-made Leopard tanks as pressure mounts on Berlin to approve delivery The Western allied failed to finalise the supply of German-made Leopard tanks to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia. During defence ministers' talks at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Friday, the United States including other allies agreed to send massive military assistance for Kyiv's fight against Russian forces, but the package didn't include the hotly-debated Geman tanks. UK says FTA talks with India ‘well advanced’, seventh round soon The negotiations for an ambitious Free Trade Agreement between Britain and India are "well advanced", United Kingdom's Foreign Office Minister for South Asia, Lord Tariq Ahmed said in a parliamentary debate in London's House of Lords.

Top 10 world news: Russia-Ukraine war escalation, New Zealand’s new PM Chris Hipkins, & more

<p>The human rights body of Pakistan raised its concern over the amendments made to the controversial laws regarding blasphemy in the country, stating that the laws will exacerbate the religious minorities' persecution.&nbsp;The Criminal Laws (Amendment) Act 2023 was unanimously passed by the National Assembly of Pakistan on Tuesday which increased the minimum punishment of those found guilty of insulting Islam's revered personalities from three to 10 years of imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 1 million.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-obsession-with-blasphemy-laws-leads-to-extrajudicial-killings-mob-violence-379868">Pakistan's obsession with blasphemy laws leads to extrajudicial killings, mob violence</a><br />
&nbsp;<br />
The chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) Hina Jilani issued a statement from Lahore on Friday which stated that the enactment of the amended law would increase minorities' persecution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"While the stated aim of this bill is to curb sectarianism, HRCP believes it is likely to exacerbate the persecution of Pakistan’s beleaguered religious minorities and minority sects," read her statement.</p>

<p>The HRCP stated that the offence has also been made non-bailable by the bill and hence, is in direct violation of the right to personal liberty which has been guaranteed constitutionally under Article 9.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Given Pakistan’s troubled record of the misuse of such laws, these amendments are likely to be weaponised disproportionately against religious minorities and sects, resulting in false FIRs, harassment and persecution,” the bill stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Pakistan, protests &amp; blasphemy</strong></p>

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<p>The human rights body added that an increase in the penalty in cases of blasphemy will increase the law's misuse for personal vendettas, as is generally with cases of blasphemy.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"At a time when civil society has been calling for amendments to these laws to prevent their abuse, strengthening this punishment will do the exact opposite," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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The human rights body of Pakistan raised its concern over the amendments made to the controversial laws regarding blasphemy in the country, stating that the laws will exacerbate the religious minorities' persecution.

The human rights body of Pakistan raised its concern over the amendments made to the controversial laws regarding blasphemy in the country, stating that the laws will exacerbate the religious minorities' persecution. The Criminal Laws (Amendment) Act 2023 was unanimously passed by the National Assembly of Pakistan on Tuesday which increased the minimum punishment of those found guilty of insulting Islam's revered personalities from three to 10 years of imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 1 million. ALSO READ | Pakistan's obsession with blasphemy laws leads to extrajudicial killings, mob violence The chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) Hina Jilani issued a statement from Lahore on Friday which stated that the enactment of the amended law would increase minorities' persecution. "While the stated aim of this bill is to curb sectarianism, HRCP believes it is likely to exacerbate the persecution of Pakistan’s beleaguered religious minorities and minority sects," read her statement. The HRCP stated that the offence has also been made non-bailable by the bill and hence, is in direct violation of the right to personal liberty which has been guaranteed constitutionally under Article 9. "Given Pakistan’s troubled record of the misuse of such laws, these amendments are likely to be weaponised disproportionately against religious minorities and sects, resulting in false FIRs, harassment and persecution,” the bill stated. WATCH | Gravitas: Pakistan, protests & blasphemy The human rights body added that an increase in the penalty in cases of blasphemy will increase the law's misuse for personal vendettas, as is generally with cases of blasphemy. "At a time when civil society has been calling for amendments to these laws to prevent their abuse, strengthening this punishment will do the exact opposite," it added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pak blasphemy law amendment to worsen minorities’ persecution, says rights body

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In pics: Looking like Japan? This is Bengaluru painted in pink with cherry blossom-like flower

<p>At least 30 people were killed, which included 16 supporters of the army, in the four attacks suspected to have been carried out by militants in&nbsp;Burkina Faso, stated security sources on Friday.&nbsp;The four attacks took place in the West African nation on Thursday. The attacks were the latest to target a civilian auxiliary force, which supports the military in the seven-year-long fight against militants, in the country's north and northwest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Burkina Faso, a landlocked country, is among&nbsp;the most volatile and poor nations in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-government-confirms-militants-have-kidnapped-50-women-search-initiated-553305">Burkina Faso: Government confirms militants have kidnapped 50 women, search initiated</a></p>

<p>The country has been facing insurgency since 2015 which is led by militants affiliated with the Islamic State group and &nbsp;Al-Qaeda and has resulted in the displacement of around two million people and the killing of around tens of thousands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The "first attack targeted an advance party of Volunteers for the Defence of the Fatherland (VDP) in Rakoegtenga", a town which lies in the northern province of Bam, said a VDP official.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official further confirmed that one woman and six auxiliaries were killed in the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Almost 10 people suffered injuries, which included some seriously injured people, who were "evacuated to Ouagadougou for appropriate care," said the VDP official. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that around 10 auxiliaries and one person were killed in the second attack which took place in the northwest's Nyala province "in the afternoon when a convoy escorted by auxiliaries and soldiers was ambushed on the Siena-Saran road".</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: All about the insurgency in Burkina Faso</strong></p>

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<p>The security officials confirmed two "militant attacks", however, refused to give any precise death toll, as they only mentioned "a number of losses".</p>

<p>Meanwhile, two other incidents linked to armed jihadist groups were recorded on Thursday, according to other security sources.&nbsp; In the north-central province of Sanmatenga, a joint military and VDP team was targeted in Zincko, one of the sources said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"About 10 terrorists were neutralised (killed). Unfortunately, four civilians were also killed," the source added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later in the evening, gunmen raided the town of Sanaba in Banwa province, killing eight civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Established in December 2019, the VDP includes civilian volunteers who are given military training of two weeks and then these volunteers work alongside the army, carrying out escort duties, &nbsp;information-gathering and surveillance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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At least 30 people were killed, which included 16 supporters of the army, in the four attacks suspected to have been carried out by militants in Burkina Faso, stated security sources on Friday.

At least 30 people were killed, which included 16 supporters of the army, in the four attacks suspected to have been carried out by militants in Burkina Faso, stated security sources on Friday. The four attacks took place in the West African nation on Thursday. The attacks were the latest to target a civilian auxiliary force, which supports the military in the seven-year-long fight against militants, in the country's north and northwest. Burkina Faso, a landlocked country, is among the most volatile and poor nations in the world. ALSO READ| Burkina Faso: Government confirms militants have kidnapped 50 women, search initiated The country has been facing insurgency since 2015 which is led by militants affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda and has resulted in the displacement of around two million people and the killing of around tens of thousands. The "first attack targeted an advance party of Volunteers for the Defence of the Fatherland (VDP) in Rakoegtenga", a town which lies in the northern province of Bam, said a VDP official. The official further confirmed that one woman and six auxiliaries were killed in the attack. Almost 10 people suffered injuries, which included some seriously injured people, who were "evacuated to Ouagadougou for appropriate care," said the VDP official. He added that around 10 auxiliaries and one person were killed in the second attack which took place in the northwest's Nyala province "in the afternoon when a convoy escorted by auxiliaries and soldiers was ambushed on the Siena-Saran road". WATCH | Gravitas: All about the insurgency in Burkina Faso The security officials confirmed two "militant attacks", however, refused to give any precise death toll, as they only mentioned "a number of losses". Meanwhile, two other incidents linked to armed jihadist groups were recorded on Thursday, according to other security sources. In the north-central province of Sanmatenga, a joint military and VDP team was targeted in Zincko, one of the sources said. "About 10 terrorists were neutralised (killed). Unfortunately, four civilians were also killed," the source added. Later in the evening, gunmen raided the town of Sanaba in Banwa province, killing eight civilians. Established in December 2019, the VDP includes civilian volunteers who are given military training of two weeks and then these volunteers work alongside the army, carrying out escort duties, information-gathering and surveillance. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Four attacks by militants kill 30 people in Burkina Faso, claim security sources

<p>The Turkish government on Saturday cancelled the upcoming visit of the Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson in the wake of right-wing extremist planning a demonstration in Stockholm.&nbsp;Turkiye expressed its anger over the permission granted to Rasmus Paludan, a Swedish-Danish politician who had sparked riots with his anti-Islamist actions across Sweden last year, to stage a demonstration in front of the Turkish embassy in Stockholm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A day after the Swedish ambassador was summoned over the issue, Turkiye announced that the Swedish defence minister's visit aimed at resolving objections raised by Ankara over Sweden's bid to join the NATO alliance was being cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-opens-investigation-into-erdogan-effigy-burning-incident-sweden-calls-it-an-act-of-sabotage-552479">Türkiye opens investigation into Erdogan effigy burning incident in Sweden</a></p>

<p>"At this point, Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson's visit to Turkiye on January 27 has lost its significance and meaning, so we cancelled the visit," stated Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar.</p>

<p>Paludan has claimed that he intends to "burn the Koran", which is a holy book of Islam while holding the protest on Saturday.</p>

<p>In April 2022, the announcement made by Paludan of burning the Koran sparked riots in Sweden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>'Not freedom but modern barbarism'</strong></p>

<p>Turkiye's presidential spokesperson Ibrahim Kalin on Saturday condemned the protests planned by Rasmus Paludan, calling it a "clear crime of hatred".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Allowing this action despite all our warnings is encouraging hate crimes and Islamophobia," Kalin tweeted.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Erdogan says Turkey is not in favour of Sweden &amp; Finland's NATO bid</strong></p>

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<p>"The attack on sacred values is not freedom but modern barbarism,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Friday, Sweden's ambassador had been summoned by Turkiye to "condemn this provocative action which is clearly a hate crime — in strongest terms," stated a diplomatic source.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ambassador was told by the officials of the foreign ministry that the permission granted by Sweden for staging the protest, under the pretext of protecting democratic values, was "unacceptable", added the source.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Turkish government on Saturday cancelled the upcoming visit of the Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson in the wake of right-wing extremist planning a demonstration in Stockholm.

The Turkish government on Saturday cancelled the upcoming visit of the Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson in the wake of right-wing extremist planning a demonstration in Stockholm. Turkiye expressed its anger over the permission granted to Rasmus Paludan, a Swedish-Danish politician who had sparked riots with his anti-Islamist actions across Sweden last year, to stage a demonstration in front of the Turkish embassy in Stockholm. A day after the Swedish ambassador was summoned over the issue, Turkiye announced that the Swedish defence minister's visit aimed at resolving objections raised by Ankara over Sweden's bid to join the NATO alliance was being cancelled. ALSO READ | Türkiye opens investigation into Erdogan effigy burning incident in Sweden "At this point, Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson's visit to Turkiye on January 27 has lost its significance and meaning, so we cancelled the visit," stated Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar. Paludan has claimed that he intends to "burn the Koran", which is a holy book of Islam while holding the protest on Saturday. In April 2022, the announcement made by Paludan of burning the Koran sparked riots in Sweden. 'Not freedom but modern barbarism' Turkiye's presidential spokesperson Ibrahim Kalin on Saturday condemned the protests planned by Rasmus Paludan, calling it a "clear crime of hatred". "Allowing this action despite all our warnings is encouraging hate crimes and Islamophobia," Kalin tweeted. WATCH | Erdogan says Turkey is not in favour of Sweden & Finland's NATO bid "The attack on sacred values is not freedom but modern barbarism,” he added. On Friday, Sweden's ambassador had been summoned by Turkiye to "condemn this provocative action which is clearly a hate crime — in strongest terms," stated a diplomatic source. The ambassador was told by the officials of the foreign ministry that the permission granted by Sweden for staging the protest, under the pretext of protecting democratic values, was "unacceptable", added the source. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader

<p>Thousands gathered in Spain's capital Madrid to protest against the leftist government of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday in a rally supported by the far-right party Vox. The protest has been staged in the year when elections are to be held.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The protesters were seen waving yellow and red Spanish flags and demanding PM Sanchez to step down. Some were also seen holding signs with the Socialist premier's photo and calling him a "traitor".&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the rally, around 30,000 people gathered at Cibeles Square in Madrid, as per the delegation of the central government in Madrid.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-thousands-protests-in-support-of-primary-healthcare-in-madrid-533809">Spain: Thousands protest in support of primary healthcare in Madrid</a></p>

<p>The organisers claimed around 700,000 people took part in the protests. Dozens of people belonging to the right-leaning civil society groups had called the protests which were supported by the conservative parties, which included Vox and Popular Party (PP), the country's main opposition conservative party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The right is upset by the decision of the government to abolish the crime of sedition under which the court had convicted nine separatist leaders for their role in the abortive secession bid of Catalonia region in 2017.</p>

<p>The authorities replaced it with an offence which carried a lower prison sentence.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Spain's farmers protest against holding river water flow</strong></p>

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<p>Conservatives have also expressed their anger over the flagship law against sexual violence in which penalties for committing the crime of rape were toughened but sentences for other sexual offences were eased.</p>

<p>While addressing the reporters before the rally started, Vox leader Santiago Abascal denounced "the worst government in history" which "has divided Spaniards and freed rapists and coup leaders".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Thousands gathered in Spain's capital Madrid to protest against the leftist government of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday in a rally supported by the far-right party Vox.

Thousands gathered in Spain's capital Madrid to protest against the leftist government of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday in a rally supported by the far-right party Vox. The protest has been staged in the year when elections are to be held. The protesters were seen waving yellow and red Spanish flags and demanding PM Sanchez to step down. Some were also seen holding signs with the Socialist premier's photo and calling him a "traitor". For the rally, around 30,000 people gathered at Cibeles Square in Madrid, as per the delegation of the central government in Madrid. ALSO READ | Spain: Thousands protest in support of primary healthcare in Madrid The organisers claimed around 700,000 people took part in the protests. Dozens of people belonging to the right-leaning civil society groups had called the protests which were supported by the conservative parties, which included Vox and Popular Party (PP), the country's main opposition conservative party. The right is upset by the decision of the government to abolish the crime of sedition under which the court had convicted nine separatist leaders for their role in the abortive secession bid of Catalonia region in 2017. The authorities replaced it with an offence which carried a lower prison sentence. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Spain's farmers protest against holding river water flow Conservatives have also expressed their anger over the flagship law against sexual violence in which penalties for committing the crime of rape were toughened but sentences for other sexual offences were eased. While addressing the reporters before the rally started, Vox leader Santiago Abascal denounced "the worst government in history" which "has divided Spaniards and freed rapists and coup leaders". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thousands of people stage protest against PM Sanchez's government in Spain

<p>A Palestinian was shot dead by an Israeli civilian at a settler farm on Saturday in the occupied West Bank after an attempted stabbing attack, stated the army reporting the latest incident as violence escalated in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli military stated that a "terrorist was neutralised" in an "attempted stabbing attack" that took place at Sde Efraim farm which lies northwest of Ramallah, as it confirmed that a Palestinian was shot dead by a civilian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The health ministry of Palestine stated that Tariq Maali, aged 42, was killed "after the occupation (Israel) opened fire on him" near Kafr Nama, the Palestinian village.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-slams-latest-un-vote-on-palestine-as-moral-decay-of-world-body-548253">Israel slams latest UN vote on Palestine as ‘moral decay’ of the multilateral world body</a></p>

<p>With the incident of shooting, the number of Palestinians so far killed in the West Bank reached 18 this month, as per the tally of the news agency AFP which includes civilians and militants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to AFP, a Palestinian ambulance was being prevented by the Israeli forces from accessing the site.</p>

<p>Palestinian medic Mahmoud Aidi said that attempts were made by first responders to reach the scene but there was "a strong army presence concentrated on the hill, and we weren't permitted to reach the person killed".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | WION Dispatch | Heavy crossfire between Israel and Palestine; one killed, two injured in West Bank</strong></p>

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<p>The army said that the man was "already dead at the scene, so there was no medical treatment to be given". The body was taken away by an Israeli ambulance. It stated that no one else suffered injuries in the confrontation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The farm is called a wildcat settlement or an outpost which the government of Israel does not recognise, as per the Israeli anti-settlement movement Peace Now.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Palestinian was shot dead by an Israeli civilian at a settler farm on Saturday in the occupied West Bank after an attempted stabbing attack, stated the army reporting the latest incident as violence escalated in the region.

A Palestinian was shot dead by an Israeli civilian at a settler farm on Saturday in the occupied West Bank after an attempted stabbing attack, stated the army reporting the latest incident as violence escalated in the region. The Israeli military stated that a "terrorist was neutralised" in an "attempted stabbing attack" that took place at Sde Efraim farm which lies northwest of Ramallah, as it confirmed that a Palestinian was shot dead by a civilian. The health ministry of Palestine stated that Tariq Maali, aged 42, was killed "after the occupation (Israel) opened fire on him" near Kafr Nama, the Palestinian village. ALSO READ | Israel slams latest UN vote on Palestine as ‘moral decay’ of the multilateral world body With the incident of shooting, the number of Palestinians so far killed in the West Bank reached 18 this month, as per the tally of the news agency AFP which includes civilians and militants. According to AFP, a Palestinian ambulance was being prevented by the Israeli forces from accessing the site. Palestinian medic Mahmoud Aidi said that attempts were made by first responders to reach the scene but there was "a strong army presence concentrated on the hill, and we weren't permitted to reach the person killed". WATCH | WION Dispatch | Heavy crossfire between Israel and Palestine; one killed, two injured in West Bank The army said that the man was "already dead at the scene, so there was no medical treatment to be given". The body was taken away by an Israeli ambulance. It stated that no one else suffered injuries in the confrontation. The farm is called a wildcat settlement or an outpost which the government of Israel does not recognise, as per the Israeli anti-settlement movement Peace Now. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Palestinian killed by Israeli civilian at West Bank farm, claims army

<p>International airlines Flydubai on Friday stopped two transgender rights activists from boarding a flight because of their ‘x’ gender.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The air tickets of transgender activists, Shahzadi Rai and Zehrish, who work for Gender Interactive Alliance, were cancelled just before they were to board the flight to Kathmandu via the United Arab Emirates, where they were headed to attend the annual meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-passes-transgender-rights-bill-allowing-people-above-16-to-change-gender-on-id-545634">Spain passes transgender rights bill, allowing people above 16 to change gender on ID</a></p>

<p>After the incident, Shahzadi Rai took to social media to raise the hassle faced by them at Karachi Airport.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/FlyDubaiRBLX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FlyDubaiRBLX</a> didn’t allow us to on board their plane due to my X gender identity. <a href="https://twitter.com/flydubai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flydubai</a> shame on u <a href="https://t.co/vipyrWP4Jg">pic.twitter.com/vipyrWP4Jg</a></p>
— Shahzadi Rai (@ShahzadiRai) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShahzadiRai/status/1616305189736316928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Transgender persons are part of the mainstream in other countries but Flydubai don’t allow x-gender cards for travelling, which is transphobic behaviour by the airline. If they don’t allow travel on their planes then why even issue us tickets,” Shahzadi quizzed while she shared the ticket issued by the airline.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | WION Dispatch: Transgender tycoon buys Miss Universe contest</strong></p>

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<p>“Shame on Flydubai for not letting khwaja siras fly on their airlines,” another transgender, whose Twitter handle is @sanakhusri, said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shame on flydubai for not letting khawaja siras fly on their airline. Flop airline ki flop policies. Fucking transphobes!<a href="https://twitter.com/flydubai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flydubai</a><a href="https://twitter.com/ShahzadiRai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShahzadiRai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/surkhina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surkhina</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Bubbleskhanum?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Bubbleskhanum</a></p>
— sana (@sanakhusri) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanakhusri/status/1616405155993292802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, transgender activist Hina Baloch, whose Twitter handle is @surkhina, stated, “Today ShahzadiRai was barred from boarding flydubai flight KHI-DXB-KTM. This is hijraphobia and we urge the Pakistan Foreign Office to look into this matter ASAP.”&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today <a href="https://twitter.com/ShahzadiRai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShahzadiRai</a> was barred from boarding <a href="https://twitter.com/flydubai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flydubai</a> flight KHI-DXB-KTM, UAE still lives in the stone age &amp; they don't recognize our Hijra Communities (Gender X on passport). This is Hijraphobia &amp; we urge <a href="https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ForeignOfficePk</a> to look into this matter asap <a href="https://twitter.com/UAE_karachi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UAE_karachi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/uaeembassyisb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@uaeembassyisb</a></p>
— Hina Baloch (@surkhina) <a href="https://twitter.com/surkhina/status/1616417494675165186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Just an hour before the tickets of transgender activists were cancelled, Shahzadi Rai had shared a smiling photo of herself from the airport and added a caption, “The goal is to die with memories, not dreams.” However, her excitement turned into a sour memory after she was denied boarding the flight.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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International airlines Flydubai on Friday stopped two transgender rights activists from boarding a flight because of their ‘x’ gender. The air tickets of transgender activists, Shahzadi Rai and Zehrish, who work for Gender Interactive Alliance, were cancelled just before they were to board the flight to Kathmandu via the United Arab Emirates, where they were headed to attend the annual meeting.

International airlines Flydubai on Friday stopped two transgender rights activists from boarding a flight because of their ‘x’ gender. The air tickets of transgender activists, Shahzadi Rai and Zehrish, who work for Gender Interactive Alliance, were cancelled just before they were to board the flight to Kathmandu via the United Arab Emirates, where they were headed to attend the annual meeting. ALSO READ| Spain passes transgender rights bill, allowing people above 16 to change gender on ID After the incident, Shahzadi Rai took to social media to raise the hassle faced by them at Karachi Airport. @FlyDubaiRBLX didn’t allow us to on board their plane due to my X gender identity. @flydubai shame on u pic.twitter.com/vipyrWP4Jg — Shahzadi Rai (@ShahzadiRai) January 20, 2023 × “Transgender persons are part of the mainstream in other countries but Flydubai don’t allow x-gender cards for travelling, which is transphobic behaviour by the airline. If they don’t allow travel on their planes then why even issue us tickets,” Shahzadi quizzed while she shared the ticket issued by the airline. WATCH | WION Dispatch: Transgender tycoon buys Miss Universe contest “Shame on Flydubai for not letting khwaja siras fly on their airlines,” another transgender, whose Twitter handle is @sanakhusri, said. Shame on flydubai for not letting khawaja siras fly on their airline. Flop airline ki flop policies. Fucking transphobes!@flydubai@ShahzadiRai @surkhina @Bubbleskhanum — sana (@sanakhusri) January 20, 2023 × Meanwhile, transgender activist Hina Baloch, whose Twitter handle is @surkhina, stated, “Today ShahzadiRai was barred from boarding flydubai flight KHI-DXB-KTM. This is hijraphobia and we urge the Pakistan Foreign Office to look into this matter ASAP.” Today @ShahzadiRai was barred from boarding @flydubai flight KHI-DXB-KTM, UAE still lives in the stone age & they don't recognize our Hijra Communities (Gender X on passport). This is Hijraphobia & we urge @ForeignOfficePk to look into this matter asap @UAE_karachi @uaeembassyisb — Hina Baloch (@surkhina) January 20, 2023 × Just an hour before the tickets of transgender activists were cancelled, Shahzadi Rai had shared a smiling photo of herself from the airport and added a caption, “The goal is to die with memories, not dreams.” However, her excitement turned into a sour memory after she was denied boarding the flight. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

International airline Flydubai stops two transgender activists from boarding flight

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