<p>Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced the removal of all restrictions imposed for controlling the spread of Covid-19 with immediate effect since most of the citizens of the country have antibodies to coronavirus.</p>

<p>"There will be no more restrictions on gatherings and movements," said the president, while addressing a news conference, adding that the government took the decision on the basis of the country's latest infection figures.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-to-sample-airline-wastewater-as-covid-19-cases-rise-in-china-547996">US plans to sample airline wastewater as COVID-19 cases rise in China</a></p>

<p>Before the president made the announcement, the government had removed most mobility restrictions for people who have received at least one booster vaccine shot, however, masks needed to be worn indoors and they needed to use a COVID tracker app, when going to public spaces.</p>

<p>President Widodo appealed to the citizens of Indonesia to remain vigilant against the coronavirus, and continue wearing masks when in a crowd or indoors.</p>

<p>Indonesia had earlier reported the highest rate of infections in Asia, however, in the past week, there has been a decrease in cases reported daily to below 1,000, with deaths and hospitalisations relatively low.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH| China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-hospitals-under-seige-as-covid-crisis-worsens-547075/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The fourth-most populous nation in the world has till now recorded more than 6.7 million cases of coronavirus overall and 160,583 fatalities.</p>

<p>Two vaccine shots have been administered to almost 75% of Indonesians who are above the age of 6 or 174.7 million people and one booster dose has been administered to about 68.5 million, as per the health ministry data.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><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></p>


Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced the removal of all restrictions imposed for controlling the spread of Covid-19 with immediate effect since most of the citizens of the country have antibodies to coronavirus.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced the removal of all restrictions imposed for controlling the spread of Covid-19 with immediate effect since most of the citizens of the country have antibodies to coronavirus. "There will be no more restrictions on gatherings and movements," said the president, while addressing a news conference, adding that the government took the decision on the basis of the country's latest infection figures. ALSO READ| US plans to sample airline wastewater as COVID-19 cases rise in China Before the president made the announcement, the government had removed most mobility restrictions for people who have received at least one booster vaccine shot, however, masks needed to be worn indoors and they needed to use a COVID tracker app, when going to public spaces. President Widodo appealed to the citizens of Indonesia to remain vigilant against the coronavirus, and continue wearing masks when in a crowd or indoors. Indonesia had earlier reported the highest rate of infections in Asia, however, in the past week, there has been a decrease in cases reported daily to below 1,000, with deaths and hospitalisations relatively low. WATCH| China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens The fourth-most populous nation in the world has till now recorded more than 6.7 million cases of coronavirus overall and 160,583 fatalities. Two vaccine shots have been administered to almost 75% of Indonesians who are above the age of 6 or 174.7 million people and one booster dose has been administered to about 68.5 million, as per the health ministry data. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesia removes all remaining measures to control Covid-19 pandemic

<p>NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg appealed to the member states to provide Ukraine with more weapons, in his interview published by DPA on Friday.</p>

<p>"I call on allies to do more. It is in all our security interests to make sure Ukraine prevails and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin does not win," said Stoltenberg, while speaking to the German news agency.</p>

<p>He emphasised the importance of providing enough ammunition to Ukraine for the systems already in place and added that there was an "enormous" need for spare parts and ammunition.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last week while speaking to a group of Western leaders, appealed to leaders to provide a wide range of air defence systems and weapons to help the country fight the ongoing invasion by Russia.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russians-to-celebrate-sombre-new-year-amid-ukraine-crisis-547893">Russians to celebrate sombre New Year amid Ukraine crisis</a></p>

<p>Last week, the United States announced additional military aid amounting to almost $2 billion for Ukraine, which included the Patriot Air Defense System, which provides protection from the cruise, ballistic missiles and aircraft.</p>

<p>Stoltenberg said that providing Ukraine with military support is the fastest way towards establishing peace.</p>

<p>"We know that most wars end at the negotiating table - probably this war too - but we know that what Ukraine can achieve in these negotiations depends inextricably on the military situation," he added.</p>

<p>Ukraine was invaded by Russia on February 24 in what Putin stated was a "special military operation" against what seems to him as a threat to the security of Russians.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH| Russia-Ukraine War: Russian 'kamikaze' drone strikes knocks out power</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russian-kamikaze-drone-strikes-knocks-out-power-541950/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The actions of Russia have been denounced by Ukraine, along with its Western allies, who have called it an act of land grabbing in an imperialist style and sanctions have been imposed against the former to end the military campaign.</p>

<p>Thousands of innocent citizens have lost their lives in the 11-month war, which has also made millions homeless, ruined the cities and badly affected the global economy, bringing incessant inflation in food and energy prices.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><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></p>


NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg appealed to the member states to provide Ukraine with more weapons, in his interview published by DPA on Friday. "I call on allies to do more.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg appealed to the member states to provide Ukraine with more weapons, in his interview published by DPA on Friday. "I call on allies to do more. It is in all our security interests to make sure Ukraine prevails and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin does not win," said Stoltenberg, while speaking to the German news agency. He emphasised the importance of providing enough ammunition to Ukraine for the systems already in place and added that there was an "enormous" need for spare parts and ammunition. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last week while speaking to a group of Western leaders, appealed to leaders to provide a wide range of air defence systems and weapons to help the country fight the ongoing invasion by Russia. ALSO READ| Russians to celebrate sombre New Year amid Ukraine crisis Last week, the United States announced additional military aid amounting to almost $2 billion for Ukraine, which included the Patriot Air Defense System, which provides protection from the cruise, ballistic missiles and aircraft. Stoltenberg said that providing Ukraine with military support is the fastest way towards establishing peace. "We know that most wars end at the negotiating table - probably this war too - but we know that what Ukraine can achieve in these negotiations depends inextricably on the military situation," he added. Ukraine was invaded by Russia on February 24 in what Putin stated was a "special military operation" against what seems to him as a threat to the security of Russians. WATCH| Russia-Ukraine War: Russian 'kamikaze' drone strikes knocks out power The actions of Russia have been denounced by Ukraine, along with its Western allies, who have called it an act of land grabbing in an imperialist style and sanctions have been imposed against the former to end the military campaign. Thousands of innocent citizens have lost their lives in the 11-month war, which has also made millions homeless, ruined the cities and badly affected the global economy, bringing incessant inflation in food and energy prices. (With inputs from agencies)

NATO's Stoltenberg appeals members to supply more weapons to Ukraine

<p>Kosovo and Serbia's main border crossing was opened on Thursday as the roadblocks were removed, said state-run TV as it announced a step towards easing tensions in the region.&nbsp;According to the report, trucks and cars were seen queued in front of the Serbian side's border point where the barricades were placed, as Kosovo police confirmed that they officially re-opened the crossing.</p>

<p>Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced that the barricades will be removed after Brussels and Washington appealed for de-escalation of tensions.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kosovo-pm-kurti-submits-a-formal-application-to-join-european-union-543424">Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union</a></p>

<p>"Barricades will be removed, but the mistrust remains," said Vucic as quoted by the state-run RTS television on Wednesday, while holding a meeting with representatives of Kosovo Serb.</p>

<p>Almost a dozen of protesters, who were present at a barricade in Rudare, expressed dissatisfaction over the decision of opening the border crossing.</p>

<p>"It makes no sense, we fought for rights that were not fulfilled, we feel cheated, abused," said one of the protesters.</p>

<p>"Why did we come to the barricades, if everything ended this way?," questioned the other protester.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;Tensions diffuse between Kosovo and Serbia with the removal of roadblocks</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-diffuse-between-kosovo-and-serbia-with-the-removal-of-roadblocks-547599/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>On Wednesday, the Pristina court ordered that the former police officer, whose detention led to Serbs setting barricades, should be released from jail and placed under house arrest.</p>

<p>The main border crossing between Kosovo and Serbia was closed after trucks and tractors were used by the Serbian protesters to stop the traffic.</p>

<p>Since November, tensions have escalated in Northern Kosovo after ethnic Serb workers working as Kosovo's prosecutors, judges and police, walked away from their jobs.</p>

<p>The ethnic Serbs were protesting against the ban imposed on Serbs from using Belgrade-issued vehicle licence plates in Kosovo, a policy which Pristina eventually scrapped.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><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></p>


Kosovo and Serbia's main border crossing was opened on Thursday as the roadblocks were removed, said state-run TV as it announced a step towards easing tensions in the region.

Kosovo and Serbia's main border crossing was opened on Thursday as the roadblocks were removed, said state-run TV as it announced a step towards easing tensions in the region. According to the report, trucks and cars were seen queued in front of the Serbian side's border point where the barricades were placed, as Kosovo police confirmed that they officially re-opened the crossing. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced that the barricades will be removed after Brussels and Washington appealed for de-escalation of tensions. ALSO READ| Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union "Barricades will be removed, but the mistrust remains," said Vucic as quoted by the state-run RTS television on Wednesday, while holding a meeting with representatives of Kosovo Serb. Almost a dozen of protesters, who were present at a barricade in Rudare, expressed dissatisfaction over the decision of opening the border crossing. "It makes no sense, we fought for rights that were not fulfilled, we feel cheated, abused," said one of the protesters. "Why did we come to the barricades, if everything ended this way?," questioned the other protester. WATCH| Tensions diffuse between Kosovo and Serbia with the removal of roadblocks On Wednesday, the Pristina court ordered that the former police officer, whose detention led to Serbs setting barricades, should be released from jail and placed under house arrest. The main border crossing between Kosovo and Serbia was closed after trucks and tractors were used by the Serbian protesters to stop the traffic. Since November, tensions have escalated in Northern Kosovo after ethnic Serb workers working as Kosovo's prosecutors, judges and police, walked away from their jobs. The ethnic Serbs were protesting against the ban imposed on Serbs from using Belgrade-issued vehicle licence plates in Kosovo, a policy which Pristina eventually scrapped. (With inputs from agencies)

Serbs remove roadblock between Kosovo and Serbia border crossing as tensions ease

<p>A court in Turkey refused to release a top doctor, who has been facing years of imprisonment after she demanded an investigation into the alleged use of chemical weapons by the army against Iraq's Kurdish fighters.&nbsp;Head of Turkish Medical Association Sebnem Korur Fincanci faced detention in October for making claims regarding chemical weapons in the media, which is considered close to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).</p>

<p>The militia had stated that it had lost its 17 fighters in attacks unleashed by the Turkish army using chemical weapons in northern Iraq's mountains and caves.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-russia-defence-ministers-hold-constructive-talks-in-moscow-547648">Türkiye, Syria, Russia defence ministers hold ‘constructive’ talks in Moscow</a></p>

<p>Ankara, along with its Western allies, considers PKK a terrorist organisation which has waged a bloody insurgency, claiming thousands of lives since 1984.</p>

<p>President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had alleged Fincanci of "speaking the language of terrorism" and the defence ministry termed the allegation as "slander".</p>

<p>The forensic medicine expert faces imprisonment of up to 7.5 years if proven guilty of promoting "terror propaganda".</p>

<p>In her trial's second week, the 63-year-old doctor said to the presiding judge that comments of Erdogan have made an impartial hearing impossible.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH| Gravitas: How Erdogan is pushing Turkey towards an implosion</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-erdogan-is-pushing-turkey-towards-an-implosion-423981/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"The president could call me a terrorist," she said while speaking in a packed Istanbul courtroom. She added, "After this statement, how could public institutions and the judiciary make an independent ruling?"</p>

<p>"If I am a terrorist, I wonder what organisation I am a terrorist of. They treat me as if I am the most dangerous suspect in the world in order to influence you," Fincanci said to the presiding judge.</p>

<p>After the hearing ended, the doctor was sent back to jail and the next hearing was scheduled on January 11.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><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></p>


A court in Turkey refused to release a top doctor, who has been facing years of imprisonment after she demanded an investigation into the alleged use of chemical weapons by the army against Iraq's Kurdish fighters.

A court in Turkey refused to release a top doctor, who has been facing years of imprisonment after she demanded an investigation into the alleged use of chemical weapons by the army against Iraq's Kurdish fighters. Head of Turkish Medical Association Sebnem Korur Fincanci faced detention in October for making claims regarding chemical weapons in the media, which is considered close to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). The militia had stated that it had lost its 17 fighters in attacks unleashed by the Turkish army using chemical weapons in northern Iraq's mountains and caves. ALSO READ| Türkiye, Syria, Russia defence ministers hold ‘constructive’ talks in Moscow Ankara, along with its Western allies, considers PKK a terrorist organisation which has waged a bloody insurgency, claiming thousands of lives since 1984. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had alleged Fincanci of "speaking the language of terrorism" and the defence ministry termed the allegation as "slander". The forensic medicine expert faces imprisonment of up to 7.5 years if proven guilty of promoting "terror propaganda". In her trial's second week, the 63-year-old doctor said to the presiding judge that comments of Erdogan have made an impartial hearing impossible. WATCH| Gravitas: How Erdogan is pushing Turkey towards an implosion "The president could call me a terrorist," she said while speaking in a packed Istanbul courtroom. She added, "After this statement, how could public institutions and the judiciary make an independent ruling?" "If I am a terrorist, I wonder what organisation I am a terrorist of. They treat me as if I am the most dangerous suspect in the world in order to influence you," Fincanci said to the presiding judge. After the hearing ended, the doctor was sent back to jail and the next hearing was scheduled on January 11. (With inputs from agencies)

Court refutes Turkish doctor's release plea in chemical arms trial

<p>The visa ban was extended by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on travellers from Pakistan. The ban, which was previously applicable to 22 cities, has now been extended to 24 cities.&nbsp;“The UAE imposed restrictions on the people of these cities because of the misstatement of the agents who sent them on visit visas but told them that they were being sent on a work visa,” said Pakistan Overseas Employment Association's (POEA) spokesperson Adnan Paracha, as quoted by 24NewsHD.TV.</p>

<p>Paracha said that the issue is a result of fraud being carried out by travel agents.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-toyoto-suzuki-announces-exit-from-pakistan-547265">Pakistan | After Toyota, Suzuki announces production plant closure</a></p>

<p>“The UAE imposed restrictions on the people of these cities because of the misstatement of the agents who sent them on visit visas but told them that they were being sent on a work visa,” he stated.</p>

<p>“Later, when these people are unable to find employment, they begin to beg in the streets of UAE and are expelled by the government,” he said.</p>

<p>The cities of Pakistan on which the visa ban has been imposed by the UAE are Dera Ghazi Khan, Dera Ismail Khan, Kurram Agency, Khoshab, Para Chinar, Sheikhupura, Abbottabad, Kasur, Larkana, Muzaffargarh, Nawabshah, Quetta, Sargodha, Attock, Chakwal, Bajaur Agency, Hangu, Kohat, Mohmand Agency, Sukkur, Skardu, Hunza, Kotli and Sahiwal.</p>

<p>Earlier, the visa ban was imposed by the UAE on Pakistan's 12 cities. Later, the list was increased to 22 and then to 24.</p>

<p>The Pakistan Foreign Office, however, refuted reports of the ban being imposed by the UAE on Pakistanis.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH| WION Dispatch: U.S. holds back $33 Million aid to Pakistan</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-us-holds-back-33-million-aid-to-pakistan-547456/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, covering up Adnan Paracha's claim, said that the issuance of visas for Pakistanis was not blacklisted or banned by the UAE.</p>

<p>“We have seen the reports and can confirm that no such ban is in place by UAE for issuance of visas to Pakistani citizens,” said Baloch.</p>

<p>The UAE also refused to accept any visa ban imposed against travellers from Pakistan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><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></p>


The visa ban was extended by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on travellers from Pakistan. The ban, which was previously applicable to 22 cities, has now been extended to 24 cities.

The visa ban was extended by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on travellers from Pakistan. The ban, which was previously applicable to 22 cities, has now been extended to 24 cities. “The UAE imposed restrictions on the people of these cities because of the misstatement of the agents who sent them on visit visas but told them that they were being sent on a work visa,” said Pakistan Overseas Employment Association's (POEA) spokesperson Adnan Paracha, as quoted by 24NewsHD.TV. Paracha said that the issue is a result of fraud being carried out by travel agents. ALSO READ| Pakistan | After Toyota, Suzuki announces production plant closure “The UAE imposed restrictions on the people of these cities because of the misstatement of the agents who sent them on visit visas but told them that they were being sent on a work visa,” he stated. “Later, when these people are unable to find employment, they begin to beg in the streets of UAE and are expelled by the government,” he said. The cities of Pakistan on which the visa ban has been imposed by the UAE are Dera Ghazi Khan, Dera Ismail Khan, Kurram Agency, Khoshab, Para Chinar, Sheikhupura, Abbottabad, Kasur, Larkana, Muzaffargarh, Nawabshah, Quetta, Sargodha, Attock, Chakwal, Bajaur Agency, Hangu, Kohat, Mohmand Agency, Sukkur, Skardu, Hunza, Kotli and Sahiwal. Earlier, the visa ban was imposed by the UAE on Pakistan's 12 cities. Later, the list was increased to 22 and then to 24. The Pakistan Foreign Office, however, refuted reports of the ban being imposed by the UAE on Pakistanis. WATCH| WION Dispatch: U.S. holds back $33 Million aid to Pakistan Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, covering up Adnan Paracha's claim, said that the issuance of visas for Pakistanis was not blacklisted or banned by the UAE. “We have seen the reports and can confirm that no such ban is in place by UAE for issuance of visas to Pakistani citizens,” said Baloch. The UAE also refused to accept any visa ban imposed against travellers from Pakistan. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE imposes visa ban on Pakistani travellers from 24 cities to curb the problem of beggars

<p>South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on Thursday said that the country will boost its readiness to respond to airspace intrusions after five drones of North Korea crossed the border and could not be shot down by the military.&nbsp;Fighter jets were deployed by South Korea's military after the airspace intrusion by North Korea's drones on Monday as one of the drones flew close to the capital.</p>

<p>However, even after carrying out a five-hour-long operation, the North Korean drones were not shot down which led to the South Korean military's widespread criticism and the military issued an apology.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-plans-to-spend-441-million-until-2027-to-counter-nkorean-drones-547448">South Korea plans to spend $441 million until 2027 to counter N.Korean drones</a></p>

<p>On Thursday, President Yoon said that the situation was "intolerable" and added that the government should make Pyongyang "realise that provocations are always met with harsh consequences".</p>

<p>"In order for us to achieve peace, we need to make overwhelmingly superior war preparations," he added, while speaking during his visit to the state-run Agency for Defence Development.</p>

<p>"The overall response system against all flying objects invading our airspace, on top of drones, must be re-examined to quickly make up for any deficiencies," he added.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, Yoon criticised the way the incident was handled by the military and called for accelerating the plan for launching a drone unit, in which advanced stealth models will be included for carrying out surveillance on important military facilities in Pyongyang.</p>

<p>The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff on Thursday said that exercises, focused on drones, will be staged.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;WION Fineprint: South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol announces new drone unit</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-south-korean-president-yoon-suk-yeol-announces-new-drone-unit-547164/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>For the first time in five years, the drones of Pyongyang made an air incursion into the airspace of South. This year, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, said that he aims to make his country the most powerful nuclear force in the world, and said that the country is an "irreversible" nuclear state.</p>

<p>President Yoon said that nuclear weapons of North Korea would not affect the response of Seoul to any future provocations by Pyongyang.</p>

<p>"Regardless of whether the opponent has nuclear weapons or weapons of mass destruction, we should give a clear message to those who are provoking," he added.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><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></p>


South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on Thursday said that the country will boost its readiness to respond to airspace intrusions after five drones of North Korea crossed the border and could not be shot down by the military.

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on Thursday said that the country will boost its readiness to respond to airspace intrusions after five drones of North Korea crossed the border and could not be shot down by the military. Fighter jets were deployed by South Korea's military after the airspace intrusion by North Korea's drones on Monday as one of the drones flew close to the capital. However, even after carrying out a five-hour-long operation, the North Korean drones were not shot down which led to the South Korean military's widespread criticism and the military issued an apology. ALSO READ| South Korea plans to spend $441 million until 2027 to counter N.Korean drones On Thursday, President Yoon said that the situation was "intolerable" and added that the government should make Pyongyang "realise that provocations are always met with harsh consequences". "In order for us to achieve peace, we need to make overwhelmingly superior war preparations," he added, while speaking during his visit to the state-run Agency for Defence Development. "The overall response system against all flying objects invading our airspace, on top of drones, must be re-examined to quickly make up for any deficiencies," he added. Earlier this week, Yoon criticised the way the incident was handled by the military and called for accelerating the plan for launching a drone unit, in which advanced stealth models will be included for carrying out surveillance on important military facilities in Pyongyang. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff on Thursday said that exercises, focused on drones, will be staged. WATCH| WION Fineprint: South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol announces new drone unit For the first time in five years, the drones of Pyongyang made an air incursion into the airspace of South. This year, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, said that he aims to make his country the most powerful nuclear force in the world, and said that the country is an "irreversible" nuclear state. President Yoon said that nuclear weapons of North Korea would not affect the response of Seoul to any future provocations by Pyongyang. "Regardless of whether the opponent has nuclear weapons or weapons of mass destruction, we should give a clear message to those who are provoking," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea plans to upgrade preparedness after unchecked North Korea’s drone incursion

<p>Soon after a video went viral in which an IndiGo air hostess gave an apt reply to a passenger for calling her a 'servant', another video of two passengers fighting mid-air on a Thai Smile Airways' Bangkok to Kolkata flight took the internet by storm.&nbsp;As per reports, a passenger who was sitting on seat 37C refused to upright his seat before take-off, after which the other passenger complained about him. The Captain was then informed by the crew as the flight was facing a delay for a short period.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/small-d-energy-greta-thunberg-responds-to-andrew-tates-supercar-flex-on-twitter-he-replies-547631">‘Small d*** energy’: Greta Thunberg responds to Andrew Tate’s supercar flex on Twitter. He replies.</a></p>

<p>After this, the passenger, who was sitting on 41C, started slapping the co-traveller who was not ready to upright his seat, as the co-passengers intervened. As the viral video shows, the brawl intensified and it was required to take timely action.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AirRage?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AirRage</a><br />
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Video of a fight between pax that broke out on <a href="https://twitter.com/ThaiSmileAirway?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThaiSmileAirway</a> flight<br />
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Reportedly on a Bangkok-India flight of Dec 27 <a href="https://t.co/qyGJdaWXxC">pic.twitter.com/qyGJdaWXxC</a></p>
— Saurabh Sinha (@27saurabhsinha) <a href="https://twitter.com/27saurabhsinha/status/1608095790744100865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>After the video went viral, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security demanded a detailed report of the brawl from the concerned authority.</p>

<p>"We've taken note of the viral video, which shows a fight between passengers on a Thai Airways flight to Kolkata," BCAS DG Zulfiquar Hasan.</p>

<p>The viral video garnered millions of views and also brought to light the issue of unruly passengers and the cabin crew's safety.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH| Gravitas: New viral weight loss fad</strong></p>

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<p>“This person MUST BE IN NO FLY LIST, potential threat to anyone and everyone on board,” wrote one Twitter user. “This is absolutely barbaric,” another said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This person MUST BE IN NO FLY LIST, potential threat to anyone and everyone on board.</p>
— Sachin (@sachmihika) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachmihika/status/1608103416785678340?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per reports, a flight disturbance incident report was submitted by Thai Smile Airways to the Indian Aviation Authorities, which stated that passenger 37C did not follow safety rules.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><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></p>


Soon after a video went viral in which an IndiGo air hostess gave an apt reply to a passenger for calling her a 'servant', another video of two passengers fighting mid-air on a Thai Smile Airways' Bangkok to Kolkata flight took the internet by storm.

Soon after a video went viral in which an IndiGo air hostess gave an apt reply to a passenger for calling her a 'servant', another video of two passengers fighting mid-air on a Thai Smile Airways' Bangkok to Kolkata flight took the internet by storm. As per reports, a passenger who was sitting on seat 37C refused to upright his seat before take-off, after which the other passenger complained about him. The Captain was then informed by the crew as the flight was facing a delay for a short period. ALSO READ| ‘Small d*** energy’: Greta Thunberg responds to Andrew Tate’s supercar flex on Twitter. He replies. After this, the passenger, who was sitting on 41C, started slapping the co-traveller who was not ready to upright his seat, as the co-passengers intervened. As the viral video shows, the brawl intensified and it was required to take timely action. #AirRage Video of a fight between pax that broke out on @ThaiSmileAirway flight Reportedly on a Bangkok-India flight of Dec 27 pic.twitter.com/qyGJdaWXxC — Saurabh Sinha (@27saurabhsinha) December 28, 2022 × After the video went viral, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security demanded a detailed report of the brawl from the concerned authority. "We've taken note of the viral video, which shows a fight between passengers on a Thai Airways flight to Kolkata," BCAS DG Zulfiquar Hasan. The viral video garnered millions of views and also brought to light the issue of unruly passengers and the cabin crew's safety. WATCH| Gravitas: New viral weight loss fad “This person MUST BE IN NO FLY LIST, potential threat to anyone and everyone on board,” wrote one Twitter user. “This is absolutely barbaric,” another said. This person MUST BE IN NO FLY LIST, potential threat to anyone and everyone on board. — Sachin (@sachmihika) December 28, 2022 × As per reports, a flight disturbance incident report was submitted by Thai Smile Airways to the Indian Aviation Authorities, which stated that passenger 37C did not follow safety rules. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH| Mid-air brawl between Indian passengers on Bangkok-Kolkata flight goes viral

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin oversaw the launch of various new warships along with a nuclear-powered submarine on Thursday, as he promised to strengthen the country's navy.</p>

<p>The Russian president, who has avoided public engagements since the pandemic started, permitted the hoisting of Russian flags on the new vessels through a video link.</p>

<p>The newly-commissioned vessels included a minesweeper, a corvette, and the Generalissimus Suvorov nuclear-powered submarine, which can launch ballistic missiles.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-and-xi-to-speak-on-multiple-issues-over-video-link-on-friday-says-kremlin-547743">Putin and Xi to speak on multiple issues over video link on Friday, says Kremlin</a></p>

<p>On Thursday, a nuclear submarine called 'the Emperor Alexander III' was put to sea for trials, after which it will be commissioned.</p>

<p>"I emphasise that we will increase the pace and volume of construction of ships of various categories and equip them with the most modern types of weapons. We will conduct operational and combat training of sailors, taking into account the experience gained, including during the special military operation. In a word, to do everything to ensure Russia's security and protect our national interests in the world's oceans," Putin said in his televised remarks.</p>

<p>"The newest nuclear missile carriers being built and produced there, have no equal in the world in many specifications. New surface and underwater vessels have modern navigation, communication, and sonar systems. They have highly accurate weapons and robotic complexes," he added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH| Russia wants an end to war in Ukraine, says Putin</strong></p>

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<p>In his tenure of two decades, Putin's top priority has been strengthening his armed forces, adding new warships to the navy and further hypersonic missiles, which he considers "invincible", to the country's arsenal.</p>

<p>However, despite such an arsenal, Russia has suffered many humiliating setbacks in the battle against Ukraine, which was supplied weapons from the West.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><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></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin oversaw the launch of various new warships along with a nuclear-powered submarine on Thursday, as he promised to strengthen the country's navy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin oversaw the launch of various new warships along with a nuclear-powered submarine on Thursday, as he promised to strengthen the country's navy. The Russian president, who has avoided public engagements since the pandemic started, permitted the hoisting of Russian flags on the new vessels through a video link. The newly-commissioned vessels included a minesweeper, a corvette, and the Generalissimus Suvorov nuclear-powered submarine, which can launch ballistic missiles. ALSO READ| Putin and Xi to speak on multiple issues over video link on Friday, says Kremlin On Thursday, a nuclear submarine called 'the Emperor Alexander III' was put to sea for trials, after which it will be commissioned. "I emphasise that we will increase the pace and volume of construction of ships of various categories and equip them with the most modern types of weapons. We will conduct operational and combat training of sailors, taking into account the experience gained, including during the special military operation. In a word, to do everything to ensure Russia's security and protect our national interests in the world's oceans," Putin said in his televised remarks. "The newest nuclear missile carriers being built and produced there, have no equal in the world in many specifications. New surface and underwater vessels have modern navigation, communication, and sonar systems. They have highly accurate weapons and robotic complexes," he added. WATCH| Russia wants an end to war in Ukraine, says Putin In his tenure of two decades, Putin's top priority has been strengthening his armed forces, adding new warships to the navy and further hypersonic missiles, which he considers "invincible", to the country's arsenal. However, despite such an arsenal, Russia has suffered many humiliating setbacks in the battle against Ukraine, which was supplied weapons from the West. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian president oversees commissioning of new warships, submarines

<p>The frigid winters of Texas sent hundreds of bats into "hypothermic shock", who were clinging to their roost under a bridge in Houston, Texas.</p>

<p>The bats almost froze in the frigid air and started falling on the ground after losing their grip from the bridge, which was nine metres above the pavement, reported the Houston Humane Society on its Facebook page.</p>

<p>What followed was a rescue mission worthy of Batman amid the intensifying cold wave. A bat rescue was launched by the group and 929 bats were gathered from the pavement under the Waugh Bridge, and they were provided with nutrition and heat.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/rare-treat-for-skywatchers-all-solar-system-planets-visible-to-the-naked-eye-547558">Rare 'treat' for skywatchers: All solar system planets visible to the naked eye</a></p>

<p>The rescue mission was joined in by the volunteers and by the weekend, the group took back more than 1,500 bats, who were kept warm in the attic or shelter of society wildlife director Mary Warwick.</p>

<p>Most of the bats rescued required water and warmth, however, those badly affected by the icy winters were kept in incubators and fed intravenously.</p>

<p>"Amazingly, most of (the) bats have survived," the society stated.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, as the temperature reached 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius), "close to 700" were released by the society back to the bridge, freeing them to fly in the open skies and feed on insects.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH| Gravitas: New study says processed meat increases risk of cancer</strong></p>

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<p>The Humane Society explained that the Mexican free-tailed bats "are tiny, and have minimal body fat, so they are not able to live long when laying exposed on the ground in freezing temperatures."</p>

<p>For people living in Texas, bat watching is a popular pastime, and there are huge colonies of bats under various bridges.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><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></p>


The frigid winters of Texas sent hundreds of bats into "hypothermic shock", who were clinging to their roost under a bridge in Houston, Texas. The bats almost froze in the frigid air and started falling on the ground after losing their grip from the bridge, which was nine metres above the pavement, reported the Houston Humane Society on its Facebook page.

The frigid winters of Texas sent hundreds of bats into "hypothermic shock", who were clinging to their roost under a bridge in Houston, Texas. The bats almost froze in the frigid air and started falling on the ground after losing their grip from the bridge, which was nine metres above the pavement, reported the Houston Humane Society on its Facebook page. What followed was a rescue mission worthy of Batman amid the intensifying cold wave. A bat rescue was launched by the group and 929 bats were gathered from the pavement under the Waugh Bridge, and they were provided with nutrition and heat. ALSO READ| Rare 'treat' for skywatchers: All solar system planets visible to the naked eye The rescue mission was joined in by the volunteers and by the weekend, the group took back more than 1,500 bats, who were kept warm in the attic or shelter of society wildlife director Mary Warwick. Most of the bats rescued required water and warmth, however, those badly affected by the icy winters were kept in incubators and fed intravenously. "Amazingly, most of (the) bats have survived," the society stated. On Wednesday, as the temperature reached 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius), "close to 700" were released by the society back to the bridge, freeing them to fly in the open skies and feed on insects. WATCH| Gravitas: New study says processed meat increases risk of cancer The Humane Society explained that the Mexican free-tailed bats "are tiny, and have minimal body fat, so they are not able to live long when laying exposed on the ground in freezing temperatures." For people living in Texas, bat watching is a popular pastime, and there are huge colonies of bats under various bridges. (With inputs from agencies)

Hundreds of freezing bats rescued in icy, frigid winters of Texas

<p>As the government schools of Delhi are set to close for winter vacations, all teachers working in government schools will be deployed at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport to perform Covid-19 duty.</p>

<p>According to the Delhi government's official announcement, the teachers will work from December 31, 2022, till January 15, 2023, at the airport to ensure that the visitors and passengers are following Covid-appropriate behaviour.</p>

<p>The government schools in Delhi will remain closed for winter vacations from January 1 to 15, 2023. Although remedial classes will be conducted from January 2 to 14, 2023 for weak students, teachers would work at the IGI Airport in the national capital to ensure that people are following all safety protocols related to Covid-19.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-steps-up-measures-amidst-china-covid-explosion-expert-says-hybrid-immunity-will-help-country-544957">India steps up measures amidst China Covid explosion, expert says 'hybrid immunity' will help country</a></p>

<p>“Teachers of Delhi government schools will be deployed at Delhi airport from December 31 to January 15 to ensure that Covid appropriate behaviour is followed by passengers arriving from abroad. Schools will remain closed in Delhi during this period due to winter vacations,” the news agency ANI tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Teachers of Delhi government schools will be deployed at Delhi airport from December 31 to January 15 to ensure that Covid appropriate behaviour is followed by passengers arriving from abroad.<br />
<br />
Schools will remain closed in Delhi during this period due to winter vacations.</p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1607366806460829698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>With a sudden increase in cases of Covid-19 in Delhi, the central government has appealed to people to wear their masks and strictly follow safety norms in public places. In India, four cases of Covid-19's new variant, BF.7, have been found&nbsp;as of now.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH| India: New Covid rules for incoming passengers; RT-PCR mandatory for international arrivals</strong></p>

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<p>On December 22, the government of Delhi announced that all schools will be closed for winter vacations from January 1 to 15, 2023. The remedial classes will be conducted for students studying in Classes 9, 10, 11 and 12.</p>

<p>Till January 15, 2023, the schools will be closed for students studying in KG to Class 8.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><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></p>


As the government schools of Delhi are set to close for winter vacations, all teachers working in government schools will be deployed at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport to perform Covid-19 duty.

As the government schools of Delhi are set to close for winter vacations, all teachers working in government schools will be deployed at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport to perform Covid-19 duty. According to the Delhi government's official announcement, the teachers will work from December 31, 2022, till January 15, 2023, at the airport to ensure that the visitors and passengers are following Covid-appropriate behaviour. The government schools in Delhi will remain closed for winter vacations from January 1 to 15, 2023. Although remedial classes will be conducted from January 2 to 14, 2023 for weak students, teachers would work at the IGI Airport in the national capital to ensure that people are following all safety protocols related to Covid-19. ALSO READ| India steps up measures amidst China Covid explosion, expert says 'hybrid immunity' will help country “Teachers of Delhi government schools will be deployed at Delhi airport from December 31 to January 15 to ensure that Covid appropriate behaviour is followed by passengers arriving from abroad. Schools will remain closed in Delhi during this period due to winter vacations,” the news agency ANI tweeted. Teachers of Delhi government schools will be deployed at Delhi airport from December 31 to January 15 to ensure that Covid appropriate behaviour is followed by passengers arriving from abroad. Schools will remain closed in Delhi during this period due to winter vacations. — ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2022 × With a sudden increase in cases of Covid-19 in Delhi, the central government has appealed to people to wear their masks and strictly follow safety norms in public places. In India, four cases of Covid-19's new variant, BF.7, have been found as of now. WATCH| India: New Covid rules for incoming passengers; RT-PCR mandatory for international arrivals On December 22, the government of Delhi announced that all schools will be closed for winter vacations from January 1 to 15, 2023. The remedial classes will be conducted for students studying in Classes 9, 10, 11 and 12. Till January 15, 2023, the schools will be closed for students studying in KG to Class 8. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi government school teachers to be stationed at airport on Covid duty

<p>As part of its latest executions, the government authorities in Iran hanged two murder convicts in the south-eastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan province, said the judiciary on Monday.</p>

<p>Elias Raisi was found guilty of committing murder over to a family dispute in 2020, and Ayoub Rigi had killed the victim over a “personal difference” using a military weapon, stated the judiciary's Mizan Online news website.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The convicts were hanged on Saturday after the families of victims did not grant them clemency under Islamic law, said Mehdi Shamsabadi, chief prosecutor in the provincial capital Zahedan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<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></p>

<p>The executions were held two days after the judiciary announced the hanging of three people guilty of armed robbery and rape in Shiraz, the southern city of Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in December, the judiciary sentenced to death two men held in connection with protests being held against the death of Mahsa Amini, an Iranian-Kurdish woman who died in police custody on September 16 after she was arrested by the morality police for failing to abide by the Islamic dress code for women.&nbsp;</p>

<p>23-year-old Majidreza Rahnavard was publicly hanged on December 12 after he was sentenced by a court in Mashhad for murdering two security forces members using a knife.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH| Iran: Mahsa Amini protests rage on, government cornered in range of issues</strong></p>

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<p>Four days before that, another 23-year-old, Mohsen Shekari, was hanged after he wounded a member of the security forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, 11 people have been given the death penalty by the judiciary after they were arrested in the protests, out of which two have been hanged and the two have been permitted retrials.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><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></p>


As part of its latest executions, the government authorities in Iran hanged two murder convicts in the south-eastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan province, said the judiciary on Monday.

As part of its latest executions, the government authorities in Iran hanged two murder convicts in the south-eastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan province, said the judiciary on Monday. Elias Raisi was found guilty of committing murder over to a family dispute in 2020, and Ayoub Rigi had killed the victim over a “personal difference” using a military weapon, stated the judiciary's Mizan Online news website. The convicts were hanged on Saturday after the families of victims did not grant them clemency under Islamic law, said Mehdi Shamsabadi, chief prosecutor in the provincial capital Zahedan. 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 executions were held two days after the judiciary announced the hanging of three people guilty of armed robbery and rape in Shiraz, the southern city of Iran. Earlier in December, the judiciary sentenced to death two men held in connection with protests being held against the death of Mahsa Amini, an Iranian-Kurdish woman who died in police custody on September 16 after she was arrested by the morality police for failing to abide by the Islamic dress code for women. 23-year-old Majidreza Rahnavard was publicly hanged on December 12 after he was sentenced by a court in Mashhad for murdering two security forces members using a knife. WATCH| Iran: Mahsa Amini protests rage on, government cornered in range of issues Four days before that, another 23-year-old, Mohsen Shekari, was hanged after he wounded a member of the security forces. So far, 11 people have been given the death penalty by the judiciary after they were arrested in the protests, out of which two have been hanged and the two have been permitted retrials. (With inputs from agencies)

Two murder convicts hanged in Iran as part of latest executions

<p>Almost 10 people are reported to be buried in an avalanche that occurred in western Austria's Lech/Zuers free skiing area on Sunday, reported the Austrian Press Agency (APA), adding that the authorities have been able to rescue one person.</p>

<p>"One person was able to be rescued, efforts continue to find the others," a police spokesperson said.</p>

<p>The avalanche took place around 3 pm (1400 GMT) on Christmas day, stated APA, adding that search teams and various helicopters were deployed soon afterwards.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hiring-alert-austria-seeks-hunters-of-the-unvaccinated-438971">Hiring alert: Austria seeks hunters of the unvaccinated</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are doing everything we can to rescue the winter sports enthusiasts," the municipality of Lech was quoted as saying by APA.</p>

<p>The agency reported that around 100 people are involved in the search operation, as headlamps are being requested by the rescuers so that the search operation can continue in the dark.</p>

<p>Lech/Zuers promotes itself as "one of the best ski areas in the world" and says that it is part of the Alpine skiing's cradle.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH| WION Climate Tracker | Global warming is melting Austria's Jamtalferner glacier</strong></p>

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<p>On the website of the resort, it was stated that they closed the ski area around 5 pm (1600 GMT) on Sunday and would update the visitors about opening the ski area around 8 am (0700 GMT) on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The resort's spokesperson could not be reached immediately for comment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><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></p>


Almost 10 people are reported to be buried in an avalanche that occurred in western Austria's Lech/Zuers free skiing area on Sunday, reported the Austrian Press Agency (APA), adding that the authorities have been able to rescue one person.

Almost 10 people are reported to be buried in an avalanche that occurred in western Austria's Lech/Zuers free skiing area on Sunday, reported the Austrian Press Agency (APA), adding that the authorities have been able to rescue one person. "One person was able to be rescued, efforts continue to find the others," a police spokesperson said. The avalanche took place around 3 pm (1400 GMT) on Christmas day, stated APA, adding that search teams and various helicopters were deployed soon afterwards. ALSO READ| Hiring alert: Austria seeks hunters of the unvaccinated "We are doing everything we can to rescue the winter sports enthusiasts," the municipality of Lech was quoted as saying by APA. The agency reported that around 100 people are involved in the search operation, as headlamps are being requested by the rescuers so that the search operation can continue in the dark. Lech/Zuers promotes itself as "one of the best ski areas in the world" and says that it is part of the Alpine skiing's cradle. WATCH| WION Climate Tracker | Global warming is melting Austria's Jamtalferner glacier On the website of the resort, it was stated that they closed the ski area around 5 pm (1600 GMT) on Sunday and would update the visitors about opening the ski area around 8 am (0700 GMT) on Monday. The resort's spokesperson could not be reached immediately for comment. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 10 tourists buried in avalanche in Austrian ski resort: APA

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