Three people were killed in a massive fire that broke out inside a Perth hotel. The authorities called emergency services which included 60 firefighters, 21 ambulance crews and nine fire trucks to the New County Hotel on County Place at around 05:10 am (local time).

Two people residing in neighbouring flats along with hotel guests were evacuated and the area was cordoned off by the police who appealed&nbsp;the people to avoid the area. Around eleven people were provided medical help at the scene of the incident by the Scottish Ambulance Service.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This shocking video shows flames shooting from the window of the New County Hotel in Perth. 
 
Three people died in the fire, which broke out at around 5am this morning. 
 
Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. 
 
Here's what we know so far: <a href="https://t.co/69BHAxj1iN">https://t.co/69BHAxj1iN</a> <a href="https://t.co/07WpEi2PTb">pic.twitter.com/07WpEi2PTb</a>
— The Courier (@thecourieruk) <a href="https://twitter.com/thecourieruk/status/1609942840083103746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The authorities were able to extinguish the fire at around 6:30 am (local time) after which&nbsp;they discovered the bodies in a subsequent search.

Speaking about the incident, the residents of the city expressed their shock at the tragedy. "We were wakened at 05:00 when the alarms went off and the lights were flashing in my room," said one of the residents.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cambodia-casino-fire-caused-by-electrical-short-circuit-say-authorities-death-toll-at-26-548260">Cambodia casino fire caused by electrical short circuit, say authorities; death toll at 26</a>

"Obviously as we were watching it unfold, police incident units were arriving. The fire brigade and 21 ambulances were outside. It was pretty horrendous to watch. It was frightening. When I saw the private ambulance I knew it only meant one thing. Then I realised it was major," the resident added. &nbsp;

The death of a dog in the blaze was also confirmed by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Senior fire officer of the area Jason Sharp said that firefighters did their best to save many casualties from the hotel before sending them into the care of paramedics.

Police Scotland said that a joint investigation was being conducted by their officers along with the fire service. Chief Supt Phil Davison said, "Our thoughts are very much with the families and loved ones of those who have died at what is a very difficult time for everyone."

Local MSP and Deputy First Minister John Swinney appreciated the work of emergency services.

"The news of the major fire at the New County Hotel in Perth and the loss of life that has been associated with that has been an absolutely tragic start to 2023 in the city of Perth. I extend my deepest sympathies to everybody who has been involved in this tragedy and affected by this tragedy," he said.

WATCH| WION Dispatch: Armed men open fire in Kabul building housing Chinese nationals

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-armed-men-open-fire-in-kabul-building-housing-chinese-nationals-542410/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"There has been a huge effort by the emergency services to try to avoid the loss of life and address the very serious fire that has emerged, and a whole host of support work has been put in place to assist those who have been affected, and I'm grateful to everybody for their efforts in these very sad circumstances," he added.&nbsp;

Perth and Kinross Council's deputy leader and Councillor Eric Drysdale said, "The loss of three people in a dreadful fire is truly shocking and my heart goes out to the family and friends of the deceased."

 
(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Three people were killed in a massive fire that broke out inside a Perth hotel. The authorities called emergency services which included 60 firefighters, 21 ambulance crews and nine fire trucks to the New County Hotel on County Place at around 05:10 am (local time).

Three people were killed in a massive fire that broke out inside a Perth hotel. The authorities called emergency services which included 60 firefighters, 21 ambulance crews and nine fire trucks to the New County Hotel on County Place at around 05:10 am (local time). Two people residing in neighbouring flats along with hotel guests were evacuated and the area was cordoned off by the police who appealed the people to avoid the area. Around eleven people were provided medical help at the scene of the incident by the Scottish Ambulance Service. This shocking video shows flames shooting from the window of the New County Hotel in Perth. Three people died in the fire, which broke out at around 5am this morning. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. Here's what we know so far: https://t.co/69BHAxj1iN pic.twitter.com/07WpEi2PTb — The Courier (@thecourieruk) January 2, 2023 × The authorities were able to extinguish the fire at around 6:30 am (local time) after which they discovered the bodies in a subsequent search. Speaking about the incident, the residents of the city expressed their shock at the tragedy. "We were wakened at 05:00 when the alarms went off and the lights were flashing in my room," said one of the residents. ALSO READ| Cambodia casino fire caused by electrical short circuit, say authorities; death toll at 26 "Obviously as we were watching it unfold, police incident units were arriving. The fire brigade and 21 ambulances were outside. It was pretty horrendous to watch. It was frightening. When I saw the private ambulance I knew it only meant one thing. Then I realised it was major," the resident added. The death of a dog in the blaze was also confirmed by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Senior fire officer of the area Jason Sharp said that firefighters did their best to save many casualties from the hotel before sending them into the care of paramedics. Police Scotland said that a joint investigation was being conducted by their officers along with the fire service. Chief Supt Phil Davison said, "Our thoughts are very much with the families and loved ones of those who have died at what is a very difficult time for everyone." Local MSP and Deputy First Minister John Swinney appreciated the work of emergency services. "The news of the major fire at the New County Hotel in Perth and the loss of life that has been associated with that has been an absolutely tragic start to 2023 in the city of Perth. I extend my deepest sympathies to everybody who has been involved in this tragedy and affected by this tragedy," he said. WATCH| WION Dispatch: Armed men open fire in Kabul building housing Chinese nationals "There has been a huge effort by the emergency services to try to avoid the loss of life and address the very serious fire that has emerged, and a whole host of support work has been put in place to assist those who have been affected, and I'm grateful to everybody for their efforts in these very sad circumstances," he added. Perth and Kinross Council's deputy leader and Councillor Eric Drysdale said, "The loss of three people in a dreadful fire is truly shocking and my heart goes out to the family and friends of the deceased." (With inputs from agencies)

Massive fire breaks out at Perth hotel, leaving three dead

Ukrainian resistance forces attacked a complex in Makiivka in which at least 63 Russian soldiers were, reported the Russian defence ministry on Monday. In other news, North Korea’s Kim Jong Un sacked the second-highest military official of the nation, Pak Jong Chon, replacing him with Ri Yong Gil. Meanwhile, Brazil's new president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva promised&nbsp;to save the Amazon rainforest. India’s keeper-batter Rishabh Pant was discharged from the ICU at the Max, hospital in Dehradun.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-strike-on-russian-held-makiivka-results-in-death-of-63-soldiers-548811">Ukrainian strike on Russian-held Makiivka results in death of 63 soldiers</a>

<img alt="Ukraine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8e8247cc-3515-4518-8e8a-efc96bf0347b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-02T212018.888.png" />

At least 63 Russian soldiers were killed as Ukrainian resistance forces attacked a complex in the city of Makiivka, the Russian defence ministry said on Monday. It was hailed as the deadliest known incident involving Russian troops in Ukraine as Kremlin continued to send more forces in the conflict.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-second-most-powerful-man-after-kim-jong-un-replaced-548696">North Korea's second most powerful man after Kim Jong Un replaced</a>

<img alt="Kim" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f1ce65f-1ff5-4cf5-b358-088692e6dc4d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-02T212038.066.png" />

North Korea has reportedly sacked the nation's second-highest military official. As per reports by the state media, Pak Jong Chon, the second most powerful leader Kim Jong Un has been replaced with Ri Yong Gil.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-brazil-president-lulas-biggest-challenge-is-saving-the-amazon-how-does-he-plan-on-tackling-the-problem-548638">Lula's biggest challenge is to save the Amazon. How does he plan on doing it?</a>

<img alt="Lula" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bfa7ad0-d390-4f95-b959-dad125c2078f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-02T212306.769.png" />

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who was sworn in as the new Brazil president on Sunday, promised in his speech to stop the destruction being carried out in the Amazon rainforest, a topic that became a subject of discussion during the tenure of Jair Bolsonaro.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pope-benedict-to-lie-in-state-at-vatican-for-three-days-before-funeral-on-thursday-548591">Former Pope Benedict's lying in state at Vatican begins ahead of funeral on Thursday</a>

<img alt="Pope" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b2ae2e1-5324-4663-8336-ab642c1d2bac" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-02T212319.390.png" />

The former pope, Benedict XVI’s body will lie in state for three days at St Peter's Basilica before his funeral, on Thursday, as per AFP. Catholics from across the world, on Monday, will be able to pay tribute to the German theologian who passed away on December 31 at the age of 95 and led the church for eight years before stepping down in 2013.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/women-must-wear-headscarves-even-in-cars-iranian-police-resume-warnings-548804">Women must wear headscarves even in cars, Iranian police resume warnings</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/women-must-wear-headscarves-even-in-cars-iranian-police-resume-warnings-548804"><img alt="Mahsa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a291b3fd-03d6-411b-b139-38a07c3c23db" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-02T212341.923.png" /></a>

Iranian police resumed warning women over headscarves, reportedly saying that they must wear them even when they are inside a car, local media reported on Monday (January 3).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-palestinians-killed-by-israel-army-in-west-bank-claims-palestinian-ministry-548738">Two Palestinians killed by Israel army in West Bank, claims Palestinian ministry&nbsp;</a>

<img alt="Palestine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1647f66b-abb7-4fbc-ba2c-603c7a6bb056" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-02T212356.969.png" />

Two Palestinians were killed by the Israeli army in a raid carried out in the West Bank on Monday and the homes of two Palestinians, who had killed an Israeli soldier, were demolished.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-chinese-foreign-minister-qin-gang-about-beijings-ties-with-us-and-india-548713">New Chinese foreign minister, Qin Gang, talks to his counterpart in Washington about US-China ties</a>

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5798d6ab-dd51-41c7-a951-a05faf058079" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-02T212410.908.png" />

Recently, China selected Beijing’s ambassador to Washington, Qin Gang, as the new foreign minister of the country as a replacement for Wang Yi who has held the position for nearly a decade. Prior to his departure, the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, on Sunday, spoke to Qin over the phone about US-China ties and “maintaining open lines of communication”.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tram-and-bus-workers-stage-strike-over-delayed-salaries-and-no-year-end-bonus-in-tunisia-548803">Tram and bus workers stage strike over delayed salaries and no year-end bonus in Tunisia</a>

<img alt="Tunisia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3608527a-4b5c-4d73-94f8-7a5a1545d8c1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-02T212424.379.png" />

Tram and bus workers staged a strike in Tunis over no year-end bonus and delayed salaries on Monday, resulting in traffic jams across the capital.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-joins-the-list-of-countries-requiring-covid-negative-test-from-travellers-from-china-548761">Qatar joins the list of countries requiring Covid negative test from travellers from China</a>

<img alt="Qatar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="229cde0f-02e9-4df1-a9fd-7e4b639df638" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-02T212448.961_0.png" />

Qatar joined the growing list of countries requiring travellers from China to provide a negative Covid result before boarding a flight. The flyers have to submit the test result 48 hours before the departure.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-out-of-icu-bcci-hopeful-of-him-getting-discharged-in-2-3-days-548814">Rishabh Pant is out of ICU, BCCI hopeful of him getting discharged in 2-3 days</a>

<img alt="Pant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab8f2ac7-3965-4786-9ef8-873f487d3741" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-02T212458.502.png" />

In good news for all cricket fans, India’s keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is out of the ICU at the Max, hospital in Dehradun, while the degree of his leg injuries still remain unknown. 
&nbsp;

Ukrainian resistance forces attacked a complex in Makiivka in which at least 63 Russian soldiers were, reported the Russian defence ministry on Monday. In other news, North Korea’s Kim Jong Un sacked the second-highest military official of the nation, Pak Jong Chon, replacing him with Ri Yong Gil.

Ukrainian resistance forces attacked a complex in Makiivka in which at least 63 Russian soldiers were, reported the Russian defence ministry on Monday. In other news, North Korea’s Kim Jong Un sacked the second-highest military official of the nation, Pak Jong Chon, replacing him with Ri Yong Gil. Meanwhile, Brazil's new president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva promised to save the Amazon rainforest. India’s keeper-batter Rishabh Pant was discharged from the ICU at the Max, hospital in Dehradun. Click on the headlines to read more: Ukrainian strike on Russian-held Makiivka results in death of 63 soldiers At least 63 Russian soldiers were killed as Ukrainian resistance forces attacked a complex in the city of Makiivka, the Russian defence ministry said on Monday. It was hailed as the deadliest known incident involving Russian troops in Ukraine as Kremlin continued to send more forces in the conflict. North Korea's second most powerful man after Kim Jong Un replaced North Korea has reportedly sacked the nation's second-highest military official. As per reports by the state media, Pak Jong Chon, the second most powerful leader Kim Jong Un has been replaced with Ri Yong Gil. Lula's biggest challenge is to save the Amazon. How does he plan on doing it? Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who was sworn in as the new Brazil president on Sunday, promised in his speech to stop the destruction being carried out in the Amazon rainforest, a topic that became a subject of discussion during the tenure of Jair Bolsonaro. Former Pope Benedict's lying in state at Vatican begins ahead of funeral on Thursday The former pope, Benedict XVI’s body will lie in state for three days at St Peter's Basilica before his funeral, on Thursday, as per AFP. Catholics from across the world, on Monday, will be able to pay tribute to the German theologian who passed away on December 31 at the age of 95 and led the church for eight years before stepping down in 2013. Women must wear headscarves even in cars, Iranian police resume warnings Iranian police resumed warning women over headscarves, reportedly saying that they must wear them even when they are inside a car, local media reported on Monday (January 3). Two Palestinians killed by Israel army in West Bank, claims Palestinian ministry Two Palestinians were killed by the Israeli army in a raid carried out in the West Bank on Monday and the homes of two Palestinians, who had killed an Israeli soldier, were demolished. New Chinese foreign minister, Qin Gang, talks to his counterpart in Washington about US-China ties Recently, China selected Beijing’s ambassador to Washington, Qin Gang, as the new foreign minister of the country as a replacement for Wang Yi who has held the position for nearly a decade. Prior to his departure, the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, on Sunday, spoke to Qin over the phone about US-China ties and “maintaining open lines of communication”. Tram and bus workers stage strike over delayed salaries and no year-end bonus in Tunisia Tram and bus workers staged a strike in Tunis over no year-end bonus and delayed salaries on Monday, resulting in traffic jams across the capital. Qatar joins the list of countries requiring Covid negative test from travellers from China Qatar joined the growing list of countries requiring travellers from China to provide a negative Covid result before boarding a flight. The flyers have to submit the test result 48 hours before the departure. Rishabh Pant is out of ICU, BCCI hopeful of him getting discharged in 2-3 days In good news for all cricket fans, India’s keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is out of the ICU at the Max, hospital in Dehradun, while the degree of his leg injuries still remain unknown.

Top 10: Russian soldiers killed in Ukrainian strike, Kim sacks military official, and more

A frog, which was rescued after it travelled for more than 4,000 miles on some bananas, and a hedgehog, which was saved using barbecue tongs from a drainpipe, were among the animals saved from the trickiest situation in the year 2022.&nbsp;

A few extremely “weird and wonderful” incidents that the officers of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) came across last year were shared by the charity.&nbsp;

The first such animal rescued in 2022 was a six-month-old seal pup, named Nacho, who was found next to the riverbank by the Old Lock &amp; Weir Inn in Keynsham, Bristol, on January 2.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-how-glass-frogs-turn-transparent-with-hint-at-better-understanding-of-human-blood-clotting-546244">Scientists find how glass frogs turn transparent, with hint at better understanding of human blood clotting</a>

“The River Avon runs from the coast all the way along through Keynsham where the pub is situated at the water’s edge, so it’s likely he found his way there swimming upstream from the coast,” RSPCA wildlife supervisor Paul Oaten said.&nbsp;

On January 4, they rescued another seal pup on a cliff in Weybourne, Norfolk, near a brick wartime pillbox.

“I was quite surprised to find this seal so far up – he must have just taken a wrong turn and then followed the coastal path before ending up on the cliff edge,” RSPCA's Amy Pellegrini said, who brought the pup to a safe place on the beach nearby.&nbsp;

WATCH| Europe's voracious appetite for frogs: Human consumption is threatening frog extinction

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/europes-voracious-appetite-for-frogs-human-consumption-is-threatening-frog-extinction-491437/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A recurring rescue operation for RSPCA in 2022 was getting the heads of foxes, including one vixen, from the watering can in which it was stuck in Colchester, Essex, in February.&nbsp;

RSPCA inspector Dale Grant narrated that they even found a fox inside a large tin of dog food in Barking, London, which warned them about “how dangerous litter can be”.

In July, a 5-feet long boa constrictor was found in a McDonald’s restaurant located in Bognor Regis, West Sussex. The snake, which was non-venomous, was placed inside a box by the staff, after which it was collected by RSPCA’s Hannah Nixon.&nbsp;

The rescuers of RSPCA used barbecue tongs in August to save a hedgehog stuck in an open drain in Hull, East Yorkshire.

“It was great teamwork … it involved a little bit of gentle persuasion and the use of some BBQ tongs to carefully ease him out of the drain,” Gary Cotton said, who had examined the hedgehog along with fellow rescuer Laura Barber, before it was released back into the wild.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A frog, which was rescued after it travelled for more than 4,000 miles on some bananas, and a hedgehog, which was saved using barbecue tongs from a drainpipe, were among the animals saved from the trickiest situation in the year 2022.

A frog, which was rescued after it travelled for more than 4,000 miles on some bananas, and a hedgehog, which was saved using barbecue tongs from a drainpipe, were among the animals saved from the trickiest situation in the year 2022. A few extremely “weird and wonderful” incidents that the officers of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) came across last year were shared by the charity. The first such animal rescued in 2022 was a six-month-old seal pup, named Nacho, who was found next to the riverbank by the Old Lock & Weir Inn in Keynsham, Bristol, on January 2. ALSO READ| Scientists find how glass frogs turn transparent, with hint at better understanding of human blood clotting “The River Avon runs from the coast all the way along through Keynsham where the pub is situated at the water’s edge, so it’s likely he found his way there swimming upstream from the coast,” RSPCA wildlife supervisor Paul Oaten said. On January 4, they rescued another seal pup on a cliff in Weybourne, Norfolk, near a brick wartime pillbox. “I was quite surprised to find this seal so far up – he must have just taken a wrong turn and then followed the coastal path before ending up on the cliff edge,” RSPCA's Amy Pellegrini said, who brought the pup to a safe place on the beach nearby. WATCH| Europe's voracious appetite for frogs: Human consumption is threatening frog extinction A recurring rescue operation for RSPCA in 2022 was getting the heads of foxes, including one vixen, from the watering can in which it was stuck in Colchester, Essex, in February. RSPCA inspector Dale Grant narrated that they even found a fox inside a large tin of dog food in Barking, London, which warned them about “how dangerous litter can be”. In July, a 5-feet long boa constrictor was found in a McDonald’s restaurant located in Bognor Regis, West Sussex. The snake, which was non-venomous, was placed inside a box by the staff, after which it was collected by RSPCA’s Hannah Nixon. The rescuers of RSPCA used barbecue tongs in August to save a hedgehog stuck in an open drain in Hull, East Yorkshire. “It was great teamwork … it involved a little bit of gentle persuasion and the use of some BBQ tongs to carefully ease him out of the drain,” Gary Cotton said, who had examined the hedgehog along with fellow rescuer Laura Barber, before it was released back into the wild. (With inputs from agencies)

Frog and hedgehog make it to the list of trickiest animal rescues of 2022

The government authorities in Iran released the football players who were earlier arrested for participating in the mixed-gender party in Tehran, reported the local media.

On Sunday, the media reported that they had arrested the footballers who were "in an abnormal state due to alcohol consumption". "All the footballers present at the birthday party in the city of Damavand have been released," stated the Young Journalists Club.

Fars news agency stated that the authorities had started the process of footballers’ release, two of whom played for Esteghlal FC.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/as-irans-anti-hijab-protests-cross-the-100-days-mark-lets-take-a-look-at-some-of-the-key-moments-546653">As Iran's anti-hijab protests cross the 100 days mark, let's take a look at some of the key moments</a>

The government authorities had arrested the football players who were part of a mixed-gender party on Sunday.&nbsp;

"Several current and former players of one of Tehran's prominent football clubs were arrested last night (Saturday) at a mixed party in the city of Damavand," Tasnim news agency had stated.

According to Iranian law, only non-Muslims are allowed consumption of alcohol and that too for religious purposes. Meanwhile, the law also forbids dancing with the opposite gender.&nbsp;

Violent unrest has rocked the Islamic republic since 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died on September 16 in police custody after she was arrested by the morality police for allegedly not following the strict Islamic dress code for women.

WATCH| Tehran: Dissident Iranian author Mehdi Bahman sentenced to death for 'espionage'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tehran-dissident-iranian-author-mehdi-bahman-sentenced-to-death-for-espionage-548467/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The officials in Iran have confirmed that hundreds of citizens have lost their lives in the violent protest, which include members of security forces, and the police have arrested thousands.

Many former and current football players along with other athletes and prominent personalities have been questioned or detained by the government authorities after they raised their voices in support of protests.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The government authorities in Iran released the football players who were earlier arrested for participating in the mixed-gender party in Tehran, reported the local media.

The government authorities in Iran released the football players who were earlier arrested for participating in the mixed-gender party in Tehran, reported the local media. On Sunday, the media reported that they had arrested the footballers who were "in an abnormal state due to alcohol consumption". "All the footballers present at the birthday party in the city of Damavand have been released," stated the Young Journalists Club. Fars news agency stated that the authorities had started the process of footballers’ release, two of whom played for Esteghlal FC. ALSO READ| As Iran's anti-hijab protests cross the 100 days mark, let's take a look at some of the key moments The government authorities had arrested the football players who were part of a mixed-gender party on Sunday. "Several current and former players of one of Tehran's prominent football clubs were arrested last night (Saturday) at a mixed party in the city of Damavand," Tasnim news agency had stated. According to Iranian law, only non-Muslims are allowed consumption of alcohol and that too for religious purposes. Meanwhile, the law also forbids dancing with the opposite gender. Violent unrest has rocked the Islamic republic since 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died on September 16 in police custody after she was arrested by the morality police for allegedly not following the strict Islamic dress code for women. WATCH| Tehran: Dissident Iranian author Mehdi Bahman sentenced to death for 'espionage' The officials in Iran have confirmed that hundreds of citizens have lost their lives in the violent protest, which include members of security forces, and the police have arrested thousands. Many former and current football players along with other athletes and prominent personalities have been questioned or detained by the government authorities after they raised their voices in support of protests. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran releases football players arrested for attending mixed-gender party

Tram and bus workers staged a strike in Tunis over no year-end bonus and delayed salaries on Monday, resulting in traffic jams across the capital.

This is the latest strike in a series of similar-kind of protests as the country faces a deepening economic crisis with a continuous shortage of basic commodities like cooking oil and petrol.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The strike emphasises the public companies’ financial issues, which are on the edge of bankruptcy, as the government of President Kais Saied faces one of the worst financial crises.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-goes-to-polls-as-opposition-calls-for-boycott-over-economic-crisis-543972">Tunisia holds polls, opposition terms the exercise farce, calls for its boycott over economic crisis</a>

"The financial situation in the company is really difficult," the spokesperson of Transtu Hayat Chamtouri said. The strike is a display of the UGTT union’s strength, which has promised to hold more protests.

The two-day strike called by sea, land and air transport workers was approved by the union on January 25 and 26 to protest against "the government's marginalisation of public companies".

Transtu workers, in huge numbers, gathered in Kasbah Square near the office of the prime minister and staged a protest demanding the payment that the company owes to them. The workers raised slogans like "we want our rights ... we don't ask for an advantage".

The strike held on Monday is open-ended and it will continue till the demands of workers are fulfilled, UGTT official Wajih Zidi said adding that a few employees were not been able to pay off their debts. &nbsp;

WATCH|&nbsp;Tunisia: Turnout in parliamentary elections much lower than previous polls

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tunisia-turnout-in-parliamentary-elections-much-lower-than-previous-polls-544099/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The travel chaos caused by the strike led to an angry response from a few among the thousands of citizens who were facing problems in travelling around Tunis.

"Today we do not find milk, oil, sugar or coffee. Also now we do not find buses that take us to work. Tunisia has become an unbearable hell," stated a woman who was waiting for long at a bus station. In the Intilaka neighbourhood, roads were blocked by people to protest against the strike.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Tram and bus workers staged a strike in Tunis over no year-end bonus and delayed salaries on Monday, resulting in traffic jams across the capital. This is the latest strike in a series of similar-kind of protests as the country faces a deepening economic crisis with a continuous shortage of basic commodities like cooking oil and petrol.

Tram and bus workers staged a strike in Tunis over no year-end bonus and delayed salaries on Monday, resulting in traffic jams across the capital. This is the latest strike in a series of similar-kind of protests as the country faces a deepening economic crisis with a continuous shortage of basic commodities like cooking oil and petrol. The strike emphasises the public companies’ financial issues, which are on the edge of bankruptcy, as the government of President Kais Saied faces one of the worst financial crises. ALSO READ| Tunisia holds polls, opposition terms the exercise farce, calls for its boycott over economic crisis "The financial situation in the company is really difficult," the spokesperson of Transtu Hayat Chamtouri said. The strike is a display of the UGTT union’s strength, which has promised to hold more protests. The two-day strike called by sea, land and air transport workers was approved by the union on January 25 and 26 to protest against "the government's marginalisation of public companies". Transtu workers, in huge numbers, gathered in Kasbah Square near the office of the prime minister and staged a protest demanding the payment that the company owes to them. The workers raised slogans like "we want our rights ... we don't ask for an advantage". The strike held on Monday is open-ended and it will continue till the demands of workers are fulfilled, UGTT official Wajih Zidi said adding that a few employees were not been able to pay off their debts. WATCH| Tunisia: Turnout in parliamentary elections much lower than previous polls The travel chaos caused by the strike led to an angry response from a few among the thousands of citizens who were facing problems in travelling around Tunis. "Today we do not find milk, oil, sugar or coffee. Also now we do not find buses that take us to work. Tunisia has become an unbearable hell," stated a woman who was waiting for long at a bus station. In the Intilaka neighbourhood, roads were blocked by people to protest against the strike. (With inputs from agencies)

Tram and bus workers stage strike over delayed salaries and no year-end bonus in Tunisia

A party thrown on New Year’s Eve went awry wrong after the host accidentally shot at a guest and then died of a heart attack in Karnataka. Manjunath Olekar, aged 67, was making preparations to fire celebratory shots using his gun during the party in his house in Shivamogga city on Saturday.

The host misfired the gun and his guest Vinay U, aged 34, was hit by the bullet. An investigation has been initiated by the police into the incident.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-22-injured-in-celebratory-gunfire-on-new-years-eve-across-karachi-548513">Pakistan: 22 injured in celebratory gunfire on New Year’s Eve across Karachi</a>

The tradition of firing gunshots in the air on special occasions like weddings is common in several parts of the country, which often leads to injuries and accidental deaths.

The police officials stated that Olekar, who owned a licensed gun, had allegedly used it in the last few years to mark the new year’s arrival.

Shivamogga’s police superintendent GK Mithun Kumar said that at the party, the gun was being loaded by Olekar when he "accidentally pressed the trigger" and shot Vinay, who was a friend of his son.

"A firearm can be used only in certain circumstances. Not to fire in the air to celebrate," said the police official. The people rushed Vinay to the hospital after he was shot but he succumbed to his injuries on Sunday evening.

WATCH| Delhi: Young woman stuck in wheels of car dies after being dragged for kilometers

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-young-woman-stuck-in-wheels-of-car-dies-after-being-dragged-for-kilometers-548661/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Following the incident, Olekar went into shock and collapsed," said Kumar. The people of Shivamogga have been so shocked by the bizarre incident that those who did not know the businessman personally also visited his house and paid their respects.

"I just felt sad, so I went to pay my homage," said one of the residents.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A party thrown on New Year’s Eve went awry wrong after the host accidentally shot at a guest and then died of a heart attack in Karnataka. Manjunath Olekar, aged 67, was making preparations to fire celebratory shots using his gun during the party in his house in Shivamogga city on Saturday.

A party thrown on New Year’s Eve went awry wrong after the host accidentally shot at a guest and then died of a heart attack in Karnataka. Manjunath Olekar, aged 67, was making preparations to fire celebratory shots using his gun during the party in his house in Shivamogga city on Saturday. The host misfired the gun and his guest Vinay U, aged 34, was hit by the bullet. An investigation has been initiated by the police into the incident. ALSO READ| Pakistan: 22 injured in celebratory gunfire on New Year’s Eve across Karachi The tradition of firing gunshots in the air on special occasions like weddings is common in several parts of the country, which often leads to injuries and accidental deaths. The police officials stated that Olekar, who owned a licensed gun, had allegedly used it in the last few years to mark the new year’s arrival. Shivamogga’s police superintendent GK Mithun Kumar said that at the party, the gun was being loaded by Olekar when he "accidentally pressed the trigger" and shot Vinay, who was a friend of his son. "A firearm can be used only in certain circumstances. Not to fire in the air to celebrate," said the police official. The people rushed Vinay to the hospital after he was shot but he succumbed to his injuries on Sunday evening. WATCH| Delhi: Young woman stuck in wheels of car dies after being dragged for kilometers "Following the incident, Olekar went into shock and collapsed," said Kumar. The people of Shivamogga have been so shocked by the bizarre incident that those who did not know the businessman personally also visited his house and paid their respects. "I just felt sad, so I went to pay my homage," said one of the residents. (With inputs from agencies)

Celebratory gunshots gone wrong! Man dies of heart attack after shooting guest

Two Palestinians were killed by the Israeli army in a raid carried out in the West Bank on Monday and the homes of two Palestinians, who had killed an Israeli soldier, were demolished.

The killing of "Mohammad Samer Hoshieh, 22, after being shot in the chest, and Fuad Mohammad Abed, 25, after being shot in the abdomen and thigh" in a raid carried out by the Israeli army near Jenin was announced by the Palestinian health ministry.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<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>

The village of Kafr Dan was entered by Israeli soldiers &nbsp;"in order to demolish the residences of the assailants who were involved in the shooting adjacent to the Gilboa (Jalame) Crossing, in which Major Bar Falah was killed," Israel's military said.

The small village was filled with smoke after the two houses were blasted using explosives on Monday morning. Later, the army said that "a violent riot was instigated" when they entered the village.&nbsp;

"Rioters burned tyres, shot live fire and hurled rocks, Molotov cocktails and explosive devices at the forces, who responded with riot dispersal means and live fire. Hits were identified," they said in a statement.

It was reported by the Palestinian news agency Wafa that the Israeli army arrested 18 others in overnight raids carried out in the West Bank. Israeli major Falah was killed by Palestinian gunmen at the Gilboa checkpoint during clashes in September 2022.&nbsp; &nbsp;

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Exclusive: 'We have to make sure Israel stays in the right direction', says Benny Gan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-we-have-to-make-sure-israel-stays-in-the-right-direction-says-benny-gantz-547825/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas' Fatah party’s armed wing Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades claimed responsibility for his killing. Abdul Rahman Subhi Abed, 22 and Ahmed Abed, 23, whose family homes were destroyed by the Israeli army on Monday, had also lost their lives in the September clashes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Two Palestinians were killed by the Israeli army in a raid carried out in the West Bank on Monday and the homes of two Palestinians, who had killed an Israeli soldier, were demolished.

Two Palestinians were killed by the Israeli army in a raid carried out in the West Bank on Monday and the homes of two Palestinians, who had killed an Israeli soldier, were demolished. The killing of "Mohammad Samer Hoshieh, 22, after being shot in the chest, and Fuad Mohammad Abed, 25, after being shot in the abdomen and thigh" in a raid carried out by the Israeli army near Jenin was announced by the Palestinian health ministry. ALSO READ| Israel slams latest UN vote on Palestine as ‘moral decay’ of the multilateral world body The village of Kafr Dan was entered by Israeli soldiers "in order to demolish the residences of the assailants who were involved in the shooting adjacent to the Gilboa (Jalame) Crossing, in which Major Bar Falah was killed," Israel's military said. The small village was filled with smoke after the two houses were blasted using explosives on Monday morning. Later, the army said that "a violent riot was instigated" when they entered the village. "Rioters burned tyres, shot live fire and hurled rocks, Molotov cocktails and explosive devices at the forces, who responded with riot dispersal means and live fire. Hits were identified," they said in a statement. It was reported by the Palestinian news agency Wafa that the Israeli army arrested 18 others in overnight raids carried out in the West Bank. Israeli major Falah was killed by Palestinian gunmen at the Gilboa checkpoint during clashes in September 2022. WATCH| WION Exclusive: 'We have to make sure Israel stays in the right direction', says Benny Gan Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas' Fatah party’s armed wing Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades claimed responsibility for his killing. Abdul Rahman Subhi Abed, 22 and Ahmed Abed, 23, whose family homes were destroyed by the Israeli army on Monday, had also lost their lives in the September clashes. (With inputs from agencies)

Two Palestinians killed by Israel army in West Bank, claims Palestinian ministry

To fulfil his dream of looking like a 'real-life' wolf from head to toe, a Japanese man&nbsp;spent ¥3,000,000 (approximately USD22,880) on a custom-made outfit from a company called Zeppet.

Refusing to disclose his identity, the man stated, "Because of my love for animals since childhood and some realistic animal suits appearing on TV, I dreamed of 'being one someday'."&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-man-spends-2-million-yen-to-become-a-dog-watch-how-it-turns-out-482118">Japanese man spends over $15,000 to become a dog. Watch how it turns out</a>

To go through measurements and fittings, the man made multiple visits to the studio. Speaking about it, he&nbsp;said, "We checked images of real wolves to discuss the smallest details until we incorporated many features in the specifications."&nbsp;

It took fifty days for Zeppet to complete the outfit, which left the man impressed as it matched his expectations.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
【制作事例 追加】 
オオカミ 着ぐるみ 
 
個人の方からのご依頼で、オオカミの着ぐるみを制作しました。 
シンリンオオカミをモデルにしており、リアルなオオカミのビジュアルでインパクトのある着ぐるみが完成しました🐺 
 
詳細はこちら：<a href="https://t.co/9dYYd6NPfM">https://t.co/9dYYd6NPfM</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E7%89%B9%E6%AE%8A%E9%80%A0%E5%9E%8B?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#特殊造型</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E7%89%B9%E6%AE%8A%E9%80%A0%E5%BD%A2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#特殊造形</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E7%9D%80%E3%81%90%E3%82%8B%E3%81%BF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#着ぐるみ</a> <a href="https://t.co/lX1n8zfAdH">pic.twitter.com/lX1n8zfAdH</a>
— 特殊造型ゼペット (@zeppetJP) <a href="https://twitter.com/zeppetJP/status/1562345378543853571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“At the final fitting, I was amazed at my transformed self in the mirror. It was a moment when my dream came true. My order to 'look like a real wolf walking on hind legs' was difficult, but the complete suit looked exactly like what I imagined,” the man said.

WATCH| WION Fineprint: Japan govt to pay about $7,600 per child if a family leaves Tokyo

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-japan-govt-to-pay-about-7600-per-child-if-a-family-leaves-tokyo-548142/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“Not only did the specs perfectly cover all of my preferences, but the ventilation slit for the wearer's comfort and the devices that let the wearer put it on without help showed me that the designers paid close attention to the wearer's comfort,” he further stated.&nbsp;

Earlier, another costume was designed by Zeppet for a man who wanted to appear like a dog.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

To fulfil his dream of looking like a 'real-life' wolf from head to toe, a Japanese man spent ¥3,000,000 (approximately USD22,880) on a custom-made outfit from a company called Zeppet.

To fulfil his dream of looking like a 'real-life' wolf from head to toe, a Japanese man spent ¥3,000,000 (approximately USD22,880) on a custom-made outfit from a company called Zeppet. Refusing to disclose his identity, the man stated, "Because of my love for animals since childhood and some realistic animal suits appearing on TV, I dreamed of 'being one someday'." ALSO READ| Japanese man spends over $15,000 to become a dog. Watch how it turns out To go through measurements and fittings, the man made multiple visits to the studio. Speaking about it, he said, "We checked images of real wolves to discuss the smallest details until we incorporated many features in the specifications." It took fifty days for Zeppet to complete the outfit, which left the man impressed as it matched his expectations. 【制作事例 追加】 オオカミ 着ぐるみ 個人の方からのご依頼で、オオカミの着ぐるみを制作しました。 シンリンオオカミをモデルにしており、リアルなオオカミのビジュアルでインパクトのある着ぐるみが完成しました🐺 詳細はこちら：https://t.co/9dYYd6NPfM#特殊造型 #特殊造形 #着ぐるみ pic.twitter.com/lX1n8zfAdH — 特殊造型ゼペット (@zeppetJP) August 24, 2022 × “At the final fitting, I was amazed at my transformed self in the mirror. It was a moment when my dream came true. My order to 'look like a real wolf walking on hind legs' was difficult, but the complete suit looked exactly like what I imagined,” the man said. WATCH| WION Fineprint: Japan govt to pay about $7,600 per child if a family leaves Tokyo “Not only did the specs perfectly cover all of my preferences, but the ventilation slit for the wearer's comfort and the devices that let the wearer put it on without help showed me that the designers paid close attention to the wearer's comfort,” he further stated. Earlier, another costume was designed by Zeppet for a man who wanted to appear like a dog. (With inputs from agencies)

To look like a 'real-life' wolf, Japanese man splurges whopping amount on costume

In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants were reported to have crossed the English Channel from mainland Europe to the UK, breaking the record of the previous year with more than 17,000, as per the government figures published on Sunday.&nbsp;In total, 45,756 citizens crossed the dangerous and one of the busiest shipping lanes in a small boat, in comparison to 28,526 in 2021.

Last month, four people lost their lives after their small boat full of migrants capsized in the English Channel's freezing temperatures.&nbsp;

Around 43 people were saved from the frigid waters by a fishing boat. Just a year before this incident took place, 27 people lost their lives in drowning after their dinghy capsized.&nbsp;

2022 also broke the record for the highest crossing by migrants in a single day, as 1,295 migrants made it to the UK on August 22.

For the Conservative government, this is a huge political issue in the wake of promises made by them on decreasing illegal immigration and getting hold of smuggling gangs that make these crossings possible.

Recently the Rwanda asylum plan of the government, which is aimed at solving the issue of migrants crossing the English Channel, was ruled legal by the High Court.&nbsp;

Rwanda asylum plan

According to the government's Rwanda asylum plan, some asylum seekers, who have entered the UK illegally, will be sent on a one-way ticket to Rwanda, where they can claim asylum.

The asylum seekers may get refugee status in Rwanda. In case they fail to get refugee status, they can apply for staying in Rwanda on other grounds or can seek asylum in some other "safe third country".&nbsp;

The government said that this will stop people from entering the UK through "illegal, dangerous or unnecessary methods", like small boats or dinghies which cross the English Channel.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants were reported to have crossed the English Channel from mainland Europe to the UK, breaking the record of the previous year with more than 17,000, as per the government figures published on Sunday.

In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants were reported to have crossed the English Channel from mainland Europe to the UK, breaking the record of the previous year with more than 17,000, as per the government figures published on Sunday. In total, 45,756 citizens crossed the dangerous and one of the busiest shipping lanes in a small boat, in comparison to 28,526 in 2021. Last month, four people lost their lives after their small boat full of migrants capsized in the English Channel's freezing temperatures. Around 43 people were saved from the frigid waters by a fishing boat. Just a year before this incident took place, 27 people lost their lives in drowning after their dinghy capsized. 2022 also broke the record for the highest crossing by migrants in a single day, as 1,295 migrants made it to the UK on August 22. For the Conservative government, this is a huge political issue in the wake of promises made by them on decreasing illegal immigration and getting hold of smuggling gangs that make these crossings possible. Recently the Rwanda asylum plan of the government, which is aimed at solving the issue of migrants crossing the English Channel, was ruled legal by the High Court. Rwanda asylum plan According to the government's Rwanda asylum plan, some asylum seekers, who have entered the UK illegally, will be sent on a one-way ticket to Rwanda, where they can claim asylum. The asylum seekers may get refugee status in Rwanda. In case they fail to get refugee status, they can apply for staying in Rwanda on other grounds or can seek asylum in some other "safe third country". The government said that this will stop people from entering the UK through "illegal, dangerous or unnecessary methods", like small boats or dinghies which cross the English Channel. (With inputs from agencies)

In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants crossed English Channel to reach UK from Europe

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russian defence ministry on Sunday claimed that the attacks launched by them on New Year were aimed at the drone production of Ukraine, stating that it has managed to destroy “terror attacks” of Kyiv against Russia.&nbsp;In the assault carried out on New Year's Eve, Moscow launched Iranian-made drones and missiles on Kyiv along with other Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;

Due to the strikes carried out on the New Year, three people lost their lives and 50 others were injured in war-torn Ukraine, claimed authorities.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-slammed-the-west-for-trying-to-tear-apart-russia-546534">Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin slams the West for trying to 'tear apart' Russia</a>

The defence ministry stated that a strike hit "the facilities of the military-industrial complex of Ukraine" which has involvement in the production of drones.

In its statement, the ministry claimed they have also destroyed “storage facilities and launch sites" for the drones.

"The aim of the strike was achieved. The plans of the Kyiv regime to carry out terrorist attacks against Russia in the near future have been thwarted,” it added.&nbsp;

Deputy head of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's office, Kyrylo Tymoshenko, said that two people were killed in Kyiv and Kherson's southern region, while 50 others were injured in the strikes launched by Russia.&nbsp;

WATCH| Russia-Ukraine war: Who is winning in the air?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-who-is-winning-in-the-air-546657/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Governor Sergiy Gamaliy on Sunday said that a 22-year-old woman succumbed to her wounds in Khmelnytskyi, the western city of Ukraine.&nbsp;

The attacks were launched as Russian President Vladimir Putin's war against Ukraine is in its 11th month. After suffering multiple humiliating military defeats, Russia started targeting the infrastructure of Ukraine in October, which left millions in the dark and cold.&nbsp;

Russia has claimed that its infrastructure and military sites have been targeted by Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian defence ministry on Sunday claimed that the attacks launched by them on New Year were aimed at the drone production of Ukraine, stating that it has managed to destroy “terror attacks” of Kyiv against Russia. In the assault carried out on New Year's Eve, Moscow launched Iranian-made drones and missiles on Kyiv along with other Ukrainian cities. Due to the strikes carried out on the New Year, three people lost their lives and 50 others were injured in war-torn Ukraine, claimed authorities. ALSO READ| Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin slams the West for trying to 'tear apart' Russia The defence ministry stated that a strike hit "the facilities of the military-industrial complex of Ukraine" which has involvement in the production of drones. In its statement, the ministry claimed they have also destroyed “storage facilities and launch sites" for the drones. "The aim of the strike was achieved. The plans of the Kyiv regime to carry out terrorist attacks against Russia in the near future have been thwarted,” it added. Deputy head of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's office, Kyrylo Tymoshenko, said that two people were killed in Kyiv and Kherson's southern region, while 50 others were injured in the strikes launched by Russia. WATCH| Russia-Ukraine war: Who is winning in the air? Governor Sergiy Gamaliy on Sunday said that a 22-year-old woman succumbed to her wounds in Khmelnytskyi, the western city of Ukraine. The attacks were launched as Russian President Vladimir Putin's war against Ukraine is in its 11th month. After suffering multiple humiliating military defeats, Russia started targeting the infrastructure of Ukraine in October, which left millions in the dark and cold. Russia has claimed that its infrastructure and military sites have been targeted by Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Attacks launched on New Year were targetted at drone production facilities in Ukraine: Russia

Pope Francis, in his address delivered in a New Year's Day service on Sunday at the Vatican, remembered his predecessor "beloved" Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, a day after the latter died aged 95.&nbsp;"Today we entrust the beloved pope emeritus Benedict XVI to the most holy mother (the Virgin Mary), to accompany him in his passage from this world to God," said Francis.&nbsp;

The pope presided over a Mass held in St Peter's Basilica as preparations continued for public viewing of Benedict's mortal remains in the same church for three days starting Monday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pope-benedict-xvi-passes-away-at-95-in-vatican-city-548306">Former Pope Benedict XVI passes away at 95 in Vatican City</a>

As per the wishes of Benedict, the authorities will hold his funeral in a solemn, sober and simple manner on Thursday. This will be the first time in a long period that a sitting pope will head his predecessor's funeral.&nbsp;

As January 1 marks the feast of Mary, the Mother of God, Pope Francis prayed that Pope Emeritus Benedict be accompanied by Madonna "on his passage from this world to God".&nbsp;

He further appealed for the establishment of peace in war-ravaged countries like Ukraine and Russia.

"Let us pray to our Mother in a special way for her sons and daughters who are suffering and no longer have the strength to pray, and for our many brothers and sisters throughout the world who are victims of war, passing these holidays in darkness and cold, in poverty and fear, immersed in violence and indifference," the Pope said.&nbsp;

WATCH | Pope Benedict XVI: The first pontiff in some 600 years to resign

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-benedict-xvi-the-first-pontiff-in-some-600-years-to-resign-548388/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He appealed to the faithful to work towards establishing peace and not "waste time glued to a keyboard in front of a computer screen" but to "dirty our hands and to do some good".

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Pope Francis, in his address delivered in a New Year's Day service on Sunday at the Vatican, remembered his predecessor "beloved" Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, a day after the latter died aged 95.

Pope Francis, in his address delivered in a New Year's Day service on Sunday at the Vatican, remembered his predecessor "beloved" Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, a day after the latter died aged 95. "Today we entrust the beloved pope emeritus Benedict XVI to the most holy mother (the Virgin Mary), to accompany him in his passage from this world to God," said Francis. The pope presided over a Mass held in St Peter's Basilica as preparations continued for public viewing of Benedict's mortal remains in the same church for three days starting Monday. ALSO READ| Former Pope Benedict XVI passes away at 95 in Vatican City As per the wishes of Benedict, the authorities will hold his funeral in a solemn, sober and simple manner on Thursday. This will be the first time in a long period that a sitting pope will head his predecessor's funeral. As January 1 marks the feast of Mary, the Mother of God, Pope Francis prayed that Pope Emeritus Benedict be accompanied by Madonna "on his passage from this world to God". He further appealed for the establishment of peace in war-ravaged countries like Ukraine and Russia. "Let us pray to our Mother in a special way for her sons and daughters who are suffering and no longer have the strength to pray, and for our many brothers and sisters throughout the world who are victims of war, passing these holidays in darkness and cold, in poverty and fear, immersed in violence and indifference," the Pope said. WATCH | Pope Benedict XVI: The first pontiff in some 600 years to resign He appealed to the faithful to work towards establishing peace and not "waste time glued to a keyboard in front of a computer screen" but to "dirty our hands and to do some good". (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis hails ‘beloved’ Benedict XVI in New Year’s Day address

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, in his New Year's Eve announcement, said that his government has reached a six-month ceasefire deal with the country's five largest armed groups.&nbsp;Making the truce was the main goal of the president's "total peace" policy, which is aimed at ending armed conflict within the country that has continued even after the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) was dissolved in 2017.

"We have agreed to a bilateral ceasefire with the ELN, the Second Marquetalia, the Central General Staff, the AGC and the Self-Defence Forces of the Sierra Nevada from January 1 to June 30, 2023, extendable depending on progress in the negotiations," tweeted Petro.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-dissidents-of-guerrilla-group-farc-announce-temporary-truce-546434">Colombia: Dissidents of guerrilla group FARC announce temporary truce</a>

"This is a bold act. The bilateral ceasefire obliges the armed organisations and the state to respect it. There will be a national and international verification mechanism,” he further wrote.

The groups entering the ceasefire deal include&nbsp;leftist guerrilla group like the National Liberation Army (ELN) along with dissident groups which are being operated by former members of the now-demobilised Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), Estado Mayor Central and Segunda Marquetalia.

The Colombian government, in a separate statement, stated that multiple letters were received from the church, society and other community organisations with an appeal to end the violence.

WATCH | Gravitas: Colombia elects former guerrilla rebel as President

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-colombia-elects-former-guerrilla-rebel-as-president-490306/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The government said that a specific decree would be issued for each organisation, which will specify the conditions and durations of the ceasefire. The ceasefire deal will end on June 30, but can be extended.&nbsp;

Even after efforts made by the government to negotiate with different armed groups in Colombia, so far it has not been successful in containing the violence that engulfs the country.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, in his New Year's Eve announcement, said that his government has reached a six-month ceasefire deal with the country's five largest armed groups.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, in his New Year's Eve announcement, said that his government has reached a six-month ceasefire deal with the country's five largest armed groups. Making the truce was the main goal of the president's "total peace" policy, which is aimed at ending armed conflict within the country that has continued even after the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) was dissolved in 2017. "We have agreed to a bilateral ceasefire with the ELN, the Second Marquetalia, the Central General Staff, the AGC and the Self-Defence Forces of the Sierra Nevada from January 1 to June 30, 2023, extendable depending on progress in the negotiations," tweeted Petro. ALSO READ | Colombia: Dissidents of guerrilla group FARC announce temporary truce "This is a bold act. The bilateral ceasefire obliges the armed organisations and the state to respect it. There will be a national and international verification mechanism,” he further wrote. The groups entering the ceasefire deal include leftist guerrilla group like the National Liberation Army (ELN) along with dissident groups which are being operated by former members of the now-demobilised Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), Estado Mayor Central and Segunda Marquetalia. The Colombian government, in a separate statement, stated that multiple letters were received from the church, society and other community organisations with an appeal to end the violence. WATCH | Gravitas: Colombia elects former guerrilla rebel as President The government said that a specific decree would be issued for each organisation, which will specify the conditions and durations of the ceasefire. The ceasefire deal will end on June 30, but can be extended. Even after efforts made by the government to negotiate with different armed groups in Colombia, so far it has not been successful in containing the violence that engulfs the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Colombia government finalises six-month ceasefire deal with five armed groups

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Prisha

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

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