The apology, issued by the Dutch government for the Netherlands' contribution to 250 years of slavery, was welcomed by Dutch King Willem-Alexander in his Christmas address on Sunday, calling it the "start of a long journey".

An official apology was given by Prime Minister Mark Rutte for the involvement of the Dutch&nbsp;in slavery practised in its former colonies, as he called it a "crime against humanity".

"Nobody today bears responsibility for the inhumane acts that were inflicted on the lives of men, women and children," said Willem-Alexander, while speaking at the palace of Huis ten Bosch in The Hague.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-pm-rutte-issues-official-apology-for-netherlands-role-in-slavery-544587">Dutch PM Rutte issues official apology for Netherlands’ role in slavery</a>

"But by honestly facing our shared past and recognising the crime against humanity that is slavery, we lay the ground for a shared future - a future in which we stand against all modern forms of discrimination, exploitation and injustice. The apology offered by the government is the start of a long journey,” he added.&nbsp;

In the 16th and 17th centuries, the “Golden Age” of the Netherlands empire was funded by bringing 600,000 Africans under the slave trade, most of them belonging to South America and the Caribbean.&nbsp;

WATCH| Netherlands takes stance on China export; Dutch Minister says 'Will not adopt US approach'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netherlands-takes-stance-on-china-export-dutch-minister-says-will-not-adopt-us-approach-535564/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Dutch government has stated that it will be holding various commemorative events next year and a fund worth €200 million ($212 million) has been announced for social initiatives.

King Willem-Alexander said that the issue will remain in the attention of the royal family in the commemorative year and they will also be “involved” in the events.

However, the apology issued by PM Rutte was not satisfactory for some organisations that demanded that the apology be issued on July 1, 2023.

(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 apology, issued by the Dutch government for the Netherlands' contribution to 250 years of slavery, was welcomed by Dutch King Willem-Alexander in his Christmas address on Sunday, calling it the "start of a long journey".

The apology, issued by the Dutch government for the Netherlands' contribution to 250 years of slavery, was welcomed by Dutch King Willem-Alexander in his Christmas address on Sunday, calling it the "start of a long journey". An official apology was given by Prime Minister Mark Rutte for the involvement of the Dutch in slavery practised in its former colonies, as he called it a "crime against humanity". "Nobody today bears responsibility for the inhumane acts that were inflicted on the lives of men, women and children," said Willem-Alexander, while speaking at the palace of Huis ten Bosch in The Hague. ALSO READ| Dutch PM Rutte issues official apology for Netherlands’ role in slavery "But by honestly facing our shared past and recognising the crime against humanity that is slavery, we lay the ground for a shared future - a future in which we stand against all modern forms of discrimination, exploitation and injustice. The apology offered by the government is the start of a long journey,” he added. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the “Golden Age” of the Netherlands empire was funded by bringing 600,000 Africans under the slave trade, most of them belonging to South America and the Caribbean. WATCH| Netherlands takes stance on China export; Dutch Minister says 'Will not adopt US approach' The Dutch government has stated that it will be holding various commemorative events next year and a fund worth €200 million ($212 million) has been announced for social initiatives. King Willem-Alexander said that the issue will remain in the attention of the royal family in the commemorative year and they will also be “involved” in the events. However, the apology issued by PM Rutte was not satisfactory for some organisations that demanded that the apology be issued on July 1, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Dutch king welcomes government's slavery apology, says 'start of a long journey'

Russia's President Vladimir Putin on Sunday expressed his confidence in the Russian forces, saying they will definitely destroy the United States' Patriot missiles, which the latter has promised to send to war-ravaged Ukraine. In other news, 17 people were reported dead due to the arctic blizzard sweeping the United States and leaving its citizens freezing&nbsp;during the Christmas weekend.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-will-destroy-us-patriot-missiles-says-putin-546482">Russian forces will destroy US Patriot missiles, I am 100 per cent confident, says Putin</a>

<img alt="Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ffd3341-230c-49db-9762-f3d727c22ad5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2879%29_0.png" /> 
&nbsp;

Russia's President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday (December 25) that Russian forces will destroy United States' patriot missiles which the US has promised to send to Ukraine. Putin said he was "100 per cent" confident. "Of course we will destroy it, 100 per cent!" Putin said referring to the missile system.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/17-killed-as-deadly-arctic-blast-sweeps-us-leaving-christmas-celebrations-in-deep-freeze-546477">17 killed as deadly arctic blast sweeps US leaving Christmas celebrations in deep freeze</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/17-killed-as-deadly-arctic-blast-sweeps-us-leaving-christmas-celebrations-in-deep-freeze-546477"><img alt="US" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16835ae8-bbd2-4908-bf64-862959673b73" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2874%29.png" /></a>

The United States faced a fierce winter storm as parts of the country reported blizzard conditions on Saturday evening after millions of people were left in the dark without power due to the powerful Arctic blast earlier in the day making travel for home goers in Christmas a nightmare. The country has confirmed around 17 deaths related to the winter storm across eight states, as the nation continues to remain in deep freeze for the third day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/prachanda-seeks-olis-support-to-become-nepals-next-pm-as-ruling-alliance-breaks-546490">Prachanda appointed as Nepal's PM with Oli-led CPN-UML's support</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/prachanda-seeks-olis-support-to-become-nepals-next-pm-as-ruling-alliance-breaks-546490"><img alt="Pra" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ea4f84bc-9896-4229-9a24-7e952cec8d60" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2877%29.png" /></a>

Ending the dramatic political chaos in Nepal, CPN-Maoist Centre chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" was on Sunday appointed as the prime minister for the third time after receiving support from opposition CPN-UML and other smaller parties.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-defiant-volodymyr-zelensky-says-ukraine-will-create-its-own-christmas-magic-546390">Defiant Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine will not bow down, but create its own ‘Christmas miracle’</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-defiant-volodymyr-zelensky-says-ukraine-will-create-its-own-christmas-magic-546390"><img alt="Ukraine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afb3ef97-787d-4026-823f-18fe336d9331" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2882%29_1.png" /></a> 
&nbsp;

Ten months into the ongoing armed conflict with Russia, Ukraine remains defiant. In a message on Saturday, the war-torn nation's President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukrainians will show the Russian aggressors that they remain unbowed despite the relentless attacks that have plunged millions into darkness, and that they will create their own Christmas magic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408"><img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e9d96b97-1b8a-4051-8fd6-ac09a4a85d45" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2883%29_1.png" /></a> 
&nbsp;

China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country. The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data. However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-ngos-suspend-operations-in-afghanistan-after-taliban-ban-female-employees-546512">Three NGOs suspend operations in Afghanistan after Taliban ban female employees</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-ngos-suspend-operations-in-afghanistan-after-taliban-ban-female-employees-546512"><img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7627f58d-ac4f-4dbd-a9dc-2faf9f0af422" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2884%29_0.png" /></a>

Three non-governmental organisations (NGOs), which includes Save the Children, on Sunday said that they will stop working in Afghanistan after the NGOs were ordered by the Taliban to stop female employees from working.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-maldives-president-yameen-found-guilty-of-corruption-546497">Former Maldives president Yameen found guilty of corruption</a>

 
<img alt="Maldives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f56e0c4-2dbf-4928-9b79-d8c2b7395e14" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2885%29_0.png" />

The criminal court in the Maldives on Sunday (December 25) found former president Abdulla Yameen guilty of corruption and money laundering. The charges were related to receiving kickbacks from a private company. The court said that the sentence will be announced soon. Yameen has denied the charges.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twiiter-files-90-reveals-a-web-of-social-media-surveillance-and-censorship-involving-fbi-and-other-agencies-546419">Twitter Files 9.0 reveals a web of ‘social media surveillance, censorship’ by not just FBI, other agencies too</a>

<img alt="Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ef8db93-efcc-433c-853a-64fb802a34f5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2886%29_0.png" />

The latest and the ninth instalment of the 'Twitter Files' has uncovered a web of coordination between the tech giant and US government agencies. Releasing the newest instalment on Christmas eve, Substack writer Matt Taibbi claims that it goes beyond the FBI which was acting as the "doorman to a vast programme of social media surveillance and censorship, encompassing agencies across the federal government – from the State Department to the Pentagon to the CIA."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-christmas-message-pope-francis-appeals-to-end-russia-ukraines-senseless-war-546496">In Christmas message, Pope Francis appeals to end ‘senseless’ Russia-Ukraine war</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-christmas-message-pope-francis-appeals-to-end-russia-ukraines-senseless-war-546496"><img alt="Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="535a1e32-716c-41d3-88af-70665efcc954" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2876%29.png" /></a>

Delivering his Christmas message on Sunday from St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, Pope Francis called for ending the "senseless" war between Russia and Ukraine. The 86-year-old pope further warned that the ongoing war has aggravated food shortage in the world, and appealed to the leaders not to use "food as a weapon” for war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-wages-next-year-will-be-at-their-lowest-level-since-2006-546444">UK average ‘real’ wages in 2023 likely to fall to their lowest level in more than a decade: PwC</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-wages-next-year-will-be-at-their-lowest-level-since-2006-546444"><img alt="UK" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c66f555f-cf12-4542-b4b3-b8ed995afc7a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2888%29.png" /></a>

Britons hoping for a new year's, holiday season salary bump amid high inflation and the cost of living crisis will likely be met with disappointment. As per a new estimate the average worker's pay next year will fall back to a level last seen more than a decade ago.&nbsp;

Russia's President Vladimir Putin on Sunday expressed his confidence in the Russian forces, saying they will definitely destroy the United States' Patriot missiles, which the latter has promised to send to war-ravaged Ukraine.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin on Sunday expressed his confidence in the Russian forces, saying they will definitely destroy the United States' Patriot missiles, which the latter has promised to send to war-ravaged Ukraine. In other news, 17 people were reported dead due to the arctic blizzard sweeping the United States and leaving its citizens freezing during the Christmas weekend. Click on the headlines to read more: Russian forces will destroy US Patriot missiles, I am 100 per cent confident, says Putin Russia's President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday (December 25) that Russian forces will destroy United States' patriot missiles which the US has promised to send to Ukraine. Putin said he was "100 per cent" confident. "Of course we will destroy it, 100 per cent!" Putin said referring to the missile system. 17 killed as deadly arctic blast sweeps US leaving Christmas celebrations in deep freeze The United States faced a fierce winter storm as parts of the country reported blizzard conditions on Saturday evening after millions of people were left in the dark without power due to the powerful Arctic blast earlier in the day making travel for home goers in Christmas a nightmare. The country has confirmed around 17 deaths related to the winter storm across eight states, as the nation continues to remain in deep freeze for the third day. Prachanda appointed as Nepal's PM with Oli-led CPN-UML's support Ending the dramatic political chaos in Nepal, CPN-Maoist Centre chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" was on Sunday appointed as the prime minister for the third time after receiving support from opposition CPN-UML and other smaller parties. Defiant Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine will not bow down, but create its own ‘Christmas miracle’ Ten months into the ongoing armed conflict with Russia, Ukraine remains defiant. In a message on Saturday, the war-torn nation's President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukrainians will show the Russian aggressors that they remain unbowed despite the relentless attacks that have plunged millions into darkness, and that they will create their own Christmas magic. China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country. The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data. However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision. Three NGOs suspend operations in Afghanistan after Taliban ban female employees Three non-governmental organisations (NGOs), which includes Save the Children, on Sunday said that they will stop working in Afghanistan after the NGOs were ordered by the Taliban to stop female employees from working. Former Maldives president Yameen found guilty of corruption The criminal court in the Maldives on Sunday (December 25) found former president Abdulla Yameen guilty of corruption and money laundering. The charges were related to receiving kickbacks from a private company. The court said that the sentence will be announced soon. Yameen has denied the charges. Twitter Files 9.0 reveals a web of ‘social media surveillance, censorship’ by not just FBI, other agencies too The latest and the ninth instalment of the 'Twitter Files' has uncovered a web of coordination between the tech giant and US government agencies. Releasing the newest instalment on Christmas eve, Substack writer Matt Taibbi claims that it goes beyond the FBI which was acting as the "doorman to a vast programme of social media surveillance and censorship, encompassing agencies across the federal government – from the State Department to the Pentagon to the CIA." In Christmas message, Pope Francis appeals to end ‘senseless’ Russia-Ukraine war Delivering his Christmas message on Sunday from St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, Pope Francis called for ending the "senseless" war between Russia and Ukraine. The 86-year-old pope further warned that the ongoing war has aggravated food shortage in the world, and appealed to the leaders not to use "food as a weapon” for war. UK average ‘real’ wages in 2023 likely to fall to their lowest level in more than a decade: PwC Britons hoping for a new year's, holiday season salary bump amid high inflation and the cost of living crisis will likely be met with disappointment. As per a new estimate the average worker's pay next year will fall back to a level last seen more than a decade ago.

Top 10 world news: Putin says will destroy US Patriot missiles, US battles arctic blast and more

Commuters wearing masks filled the subway trains of Shanghai and Beijing on Monday as the two cities of China took a step towards living with Covid-19 as hospitals continued to swell up with millions of new coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

After imposing tough anti-Covid restrictions for three years, Chinese President Xi Jinping removed the zero-Covid policy, which included continuous testing and tough lockdowns, on December 7 in the aftermath of public protests and increasing outbreaks.

"Our country's new coronavirus epidemic prevention and control is facing new situations and new tasks," Xi was cited as saying by the Xinhua news agency, when he for the first time addressed the sudden change in China's Covid policy.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-xi-jinping-finally-speaks-as-china-faces-new-situation-urges-steps-to-protect-lives-546753">COVID-19: Xi Jinping finally speaks as China faces 'new situation', urges steps to 'protect' lives</a>

The virus is now spreading unchecked throughout the country, with increasing doubts about statistics of Beijing, according to which no new deaths related to Covid have been reported in the last six days.&nbsp;

According to doctors, the number of patients has multiplied by five or six times, most of them being elder.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Xinhua quoted Premier Li Keqiang as saying that the government must intensify their efforts at all levels to ensure that the demand for medical supplies and treatment is met.

"I am prepared to live with the pandemic. Lockdowns are not a long-term solution,” said Shanghai's 25-year-old resident Lin Zixin.&nbsp;

WATCH| Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: India is taking no chances

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-virus-india-is-taking-no-chances-545696/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

To control Covid this year, Shanghai faced two months of strict lockdown till June 1. On Monday, the hustle-bustle on the road of the city sharply contrasted with the eerie silence that was spread across the city in May and April.&nbsp;

In the weekend, the residents of the city thronged the annual Christmas market held at Shanghai's commercial district Bund. People also visited in large numbers Shanghai Disneyland and Beijing's Universal Studios, and queued up, in Christmas-themed outfits, for rides.&nbsp;

"Now basically everyone has returned to a normal routine," said a resident of Beijing.

(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>

Commuters wearing masks filled the subway trains of Shanghai and Beijing on Monday as the two cities of China took a step towards living with Covid-19 as hospitals continued to swell up with millions of new coronavirus patients.

Commuters wearing masks filled the subway trains of Shanghai and Beijing on Monday as the two cities of China took a step towards living with Covid-19 as hospitals continued to swell up with millions of new coronavirus patients. After imposing tough anti-Covid restrictions for three years, Chinese President Xi Jinping removed the zero-Covid policy, which included continuous testing and tough lockdowns, on December 7 in the aftermath of public protests and increasing outbreaks. "Our country's new coronavirus epidemic prevention and control is facing new situations and new tasks," Xi was cited as saying by the Xinhua news agency, when he for the first time addressed the sudden change in China's Covid policy. ALSO READ| COVID-19: Xi Jinping finally speaks as China faces 'new situation', urges steps to 'protect' lives The virus is now spreading unchecked throughout the country, with increasing doubts about statistics of Beijing, according to which no new deaths related to Covid have been reported in the last six days. According to doctors, the number of patients has multiplied by five or six times, most of them being elder. Meanwhile, Xinhua quoted Premier Li Keqiang as saying that the government must intensify their efforts at all levels to ensure that the demand for medical supplies and treatment is met. "I am prepared to live with the pandemic. Lockdowns are not a long-term solution,” said Shanghai's 25-year-old resident Lin Zixin. WATCH| Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: India is taking no chances To control Covid this year, Shanghai faced two months of strict lockdown till June 1. On Monday, the hustle-bustle on the road of the city sharply contrasted with the eerie silence that was spread across the city in May and April. In the weekend, the residents of the city thronged the annual Christmas market held at Shanghai's commercial district Bund. People also visited in large numbers Shanghai Disneyland and Beijing's Universal Studios, and queued up, in Christmas-themed outfits, for rides. "Now basically everyone has returned to a normal routine," said a resident of Beijing. (With inputs from agencies)

People return to work in Beijing as China takes a step towards living with Covid

On Christmas day, around 46,000 people were forced to evacuate their homes in the Philippines after floods inundated several parts of the country, said civil defence officials on Monday.

Around 11 people lost their lives and 19 went missing after heavy seasonal rains led to a flood in eastern and southern regions of the country, the officials said.

The floods inundated the southern region on Sunday as the natural calamity ruined the Christmas celebrations of the mainly Catholic nation.

Villages and highways were swamped by overflowing rivers along with the cities of Oroquieta and Ozamiz, said the province of Misamis Occidental's governor Henry Oaminal on government radio.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-moves-to-boost-military-presence-in-south-china-sea-545559">Philippines moves to boost military presence in South China Sea due to China 'threat'</a>

"The heart of the city was flooded including the public market. Power was cut off and there was no (telephone) signal," he stated, speaking about Oroquieta which is the provincial capital with a population of 72,000.

"We've had floods before, but these are the worst rainfall and water flow levels we have ever had," he said.&nbsp;

"The waters rose above the chest in some areas, but today the rains have ceased," said civil defence worker Robinson Lacre from Gingoog city, where 33,000 people had to evacuate their homes.&nbsp;

The coastguard stated that members of around two dozen families belonging to Clarin and Ozamiz towns, which are flooded badly, were rescued.&nbsp;

WATCH| WION Dispatch: Outrage after Philippine journalist shot dead

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-outrage-after-philippine-journalist-shot-dead-522752/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the southern towns of Clarin, Tudela and Jimenez, seven deaths were reported due to drowning. The coastguard added that a fishing boat sank due to big waves and strong winds off the central island of Leyte's coast on Christmas day. Two crew members lost their lives, while six people were rescued.&nbsp;

The civil defence office stated that two people, which included a baby girl, died in floods in the eastern towns of Tinambac and Libmanan. The coastguard stated that 23 fishermen, who were on two boats which capsized after hitting big waves in the southern city of Zamboanga, were also rescued on Sunday.

(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>

On Christmas day, around 46,000 people were forced to evacuate their homes in the Philippines after floods inundated several parts of the country, said civil defence officials on Monday.

On Christmas day, around 46,000 people were forced to evacuate their homes in the Philippines after floods inundated several parts of the country, said civil defence officials on Monday. Around 11 people lost their lives and 19 went missing after heavy seasonal rains led to a flood in eastern and southern regions of the country, the officials said. The floods inundated the southern region on Sunday as the natural calamity ruined the Christmas celebrations of the mainly Catholic nation. Villages and highways were swamped by overflowing rivers along with the cities of Oroquieta and Ozamiz, said the province of Misamis Occidental's governor Henry Oaminal on government radio. ALSO READ| Philippines moves to boost military presence in South China Sea due to China 'threat' "The heart of the city was flooded including the public market. Power was cut off and there was no (telephone) signal," he stated, speaking about Oroquieta which is the provincial capital with a population of 72,000. "We've had floods before, but these are the worst rainfall and water flow levels we have ever had," he said. "The waters rose above the chest in some areas, but today the rains have ceased," said civil defence worker Robinson Lacre from Gingoog city, where 33,000 people had to evacuate their homes. The coastguard stated that members of around two dozen families belonging to Clarin and Ozamiz towns, which are flooded badly, were rescued. WATCH| WION Dispatch: Outrage after Philippine journalist shot dead In the southern towns of Clarin, Tudela and Jimenez, seven deaths were reported due to drowning. The coastguard added that a fishing boat sank due to big waves and strong winds off the central island of Leyte's coast on Christmas day. Two crew members lost their lives, while six people were rescued. The civil defence office stated that two people, which included a baby girl, died in floods in the eastern towns of Tinambac and Libmanan. The coastguard stated that 23 fishermen, who were on two boats which capsized after hitting big waves in the southern city of Zamboanga, were also rescued on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines floods force evacuation of tens of thousands on Christmas day

Five non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including&nbsp;Save the Children, on Sunday said that they will stop working in Afghanistan after the NGOs were ordered by the Taliban to stop allowing female employees to work.&nbsp;The NGOs made the announcement as the United Nations' top officials and multiple NGOs operating in the country met in Kabul, where they discussed the way ahead in the wake of the Taliban's new ban which was a slap to humanitarian work in Afghanistan.

"We cannot effectively reach children, women and men in desperate need in Afghanistan without our female staff," said Save the Children, CARE and the Norwegian Refugee Council, in a joint statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibans-war-on-women-female-employees-banned-from-working-in-ngos-546354">Taliban's war on women: Female employees banned from working in NGOs</a>

"Whilst we gain clarity on this announcement, we are suspending our programmes, demanding that men and women can equally continue our lifesaving assistance in Afghanistan,” the statement further read.

The latest ban was announced by the Taliban less than a week after it banned women from studying in universities, which led to protests in some cities and global condemnation of the government.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Afghanistan's Ministry of Economy said that the NGOs' operating licences will be suspended if they disobeyed the order. The ministry added that there were "serious complaints" about women failing to follow the Islamic dress code while working in NGOs.

Global condemnation

Taliban's order was condemned internationally with organisations and governments warning that it will have a bad impact on the country's humanitarian services, where millions of people depend on aid.

WATCH| Afghanistan: Taliban divided over ban on women's education; US calls on Taliban to reverse ban

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-taliban-divided-over-ban-on-womens-education-us-calls-on-taliban-to-reverse-ban-546249/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Humanitarian Country Team, comprising top UN officials along with representatives of foreign and Afghan NGOs, held a meeting in Kabul where they discussed if all aid work should be suspended in the country following the latest directive issued by the Taliban.

Criticising the directive of the ministry, the United Nations said that an explanation would be sought from the Taliban regarding the order, which by ostracising women "systematically from all aspects of public and political life takes the country backward, jeopardising efforts for any meaningful peace or stability in the country".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the ban imposed would turn out to be "devastating" for Afghans as it would "disrupt vital and life-saving assistance to millions".&nbsp;

Germany's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Sunday appealed for a "clear reaction from the international community".

"Those who exclude women and young girls from work, from education and from public life not only ruin their country... We will try to get a clear reaction from the international community," she said on Twitter. "Sexist persecution can constitute a crime against humanity," she added.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Five non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including Save the Children, on Sunday said that they will stop working in Afghanistan after the NGOs were ordered by the Taliban to stop allowing female employees to work.

Five non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including Save the Children, on Sunday said that they will stop working in Afghanistan after the NGOs were ordered by the Taliban to stop allowing female employees to work. The NGOs made the announcement as the United Nations' top officials and multiple NGOs operating in the country met in Kabul, where they discussed the way ahead in the wake of the Taliban's new ban which was a slap to humanitarian work in Afghanistan. "We cannot effectively reach children, women and men in desperate need in Afghanistan without our female staff," said Save the Children, CARE and the Norwegian Refugee Council, in a joint statement. ALSO READ| Taliban's war on women: Female employees banned from working in NGOs "Whilst we gain clarity on this announcement, we are suspending our programmes, demanding that men and women can equally continue our lifesaving assistance in Afghanistan,” the statement further read. The latest ban was announced by the Taliban less than a week after it banned women from studying in universities, which led to protests in some cities and global condemnation of the government. On Saturday, Afghanistan's Ministry of Economy said that the NGOs' operating licences will be suspended if they disobeyed the order. The ministry added that there were "serious complaints" about women failing to follow the Islamic dress code while working in NGOs. Global condemnation Taliban's order was condemned internationally with organisations and governments warning that it will have a bad impact on the country's humanitarian services, where millions of people depend on aid. WATCH| Afghanistan: Taliban divided over ban on women's education; US calls on Taliban to reverse ban The Humanitarian Country Team, comprising top UN officials along with representatives of foreign and Afghan NGOs, held a meeting in Kabul where they discussed if all aid work should be suspended in the country following the latest directive issued by the Taliban. Criticising the directive of the ministry, the United Nations said that an explanation would be sought from the Taliban regarding the order, which by ostracising women "systematically from all aspects of public and political life takes the country backward, jeopardising efforts for any meaningful peace or stability in the country". Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the ban imposed would turn out to be "devastating" for Afghans as it would "disrupt vital and life-saving assistance to millions". Germany's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Sunday appealed for a "clear reaction from the international community". "Those who exclude women and young girls from work, from education and from public life not only ruin their country... We will try to get a clear reaction from the international community," she said on Twitter. "Sexist persecution can constitute a crime against humanity," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Five NGOs suspend operations in Afghanistan after Taliban ban female employees

Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known by nom de guerre Prachanda “Prachanda”, on Monday took oath as Nepal's new prime minister for the third time, one day after he was appointed as the new premier by President Bidya Devi Bhandari.

The former guerrilla leader was appointed by the president as the new prime minister of the country after a letter showing 169 members' support, out of the House of Representatives' 275 members, was submitted by the president.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Dahal took the oath of office and secrecy from the president during an official ceremony held at Shital Niwas.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/prachanda-seeks-olis-support-to-become-nepals-next-pm-as-ruling-alliance-breaks-546490">Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' appointed as Nepal’s PM with Oli-led CPN-UML’s support</a>

Meanwhile, the ruling coalition's officials said that the new government, headed by Prachanda, will work towards balancing ties with neighbouring countries – India and China – as it aims the country's economic growth.

In a turn of events, Prachanda became the country's prime minister unexpectedly for a third time on Sunday after he broke away from the previous coalition and sought the opposition Communist Unified Marxist-Leninist (UML) party's support. The elections, held last month, had resulted in a hung parliament.&nbsp;

It is believed that former prime minister and UML leader Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli is believed to be pro-China. "We'll maintain relationships of equi-proximity with both our neighbours," said Narayan Kaji Shrestha, Prachanda's Maoist Centre party's senior member. Shrestha was given the post of deputy prime minister.

"We must immediately focus on containing inflation, maintain reserves, raise capital expenses, narrow the trade deficit and lower interest rates,” he added.&nbsp;

WATCH| WION Dispatch: Nepal President wants new PM by Christmas

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Six other ministers were also named the prime minister and Bishnu Prasad Paudel was given the crucial post of finance minister. He has held the position of finance minister twice before.&nbsp;

Rabi Lamichhane was appointed as the home (interior) minister. The prime minister kept the foreign ministry to himself.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes to Dahal on his appointment as the prime minister.

"The unique relationship between India &amp; Nepal is based on deep cultural connect &amp; warm people-to-people ties. I look forward to working together with you to further strengthen this friendship,” Modi tweeted.&nbsp;

A spokesperson of the Chinese embassy also congratulated Prachanda in a Twitter post.

Prachanda, who was born in Kaski district's Dhikurpokhari near Pokhara on December 11, 1954, was underground for 13 years of his life.&nbsp;

He participated the mainstream politics when peaceful politics was adopted by the CPN-Maoist, ending the country's decade-long armed insurgency. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known by nom de guerre Prachanda “Prachanda”, on Monday took oath as Nepal's new prime minister for the third time, one day after he was appointed as the new premier by President Bidya Devi Bhandari.

Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known by nom de guerre Prachanda “Prachanda”, on Monday took oath as Nepal's new prime minister for the third time, one day after he was appointed as the new premier by President Bidya Devi Bhandari. The former guerrilla leader was appointed by the president as the new prime minister of the country after a letter showing 169 members' support, out of the House of Representatives' 275 members, was submitted by the president. Prime Minister Dahal took the oath of office and secrecy from the president during an official ceremony held at Shital Niwas. ALSO READ| Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' appointed as Nepal’s PM with Oli-led CPN-UML’s support Meanwhile, the ruling coalition's officials said that the new government, headed by Prachanda, will work towards balancing ties with neighbouring countries – India and China – as it aims the country's economic growth. In a turn of events, Prachanda became the country's prime minister unexpectedly for a third time on Sunday after he broke away from the previous coalition and sought the opposition Communist Unified Marxist-Leninist (UML) party's support. The elections, held last month, had resulted in a hung parliament. It is believed that former prime minister and UML leader Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli is believed to be pro-China. "We'll maintain relationships of equi-proximity with both our neighbours," said Narayan Kaji Shrestha, Prachanda's Maoist Centre party's senior member. Shrestha was given the post of deputy prime minister. "We must immediately focus on containing inflation, maintain reserves, raise capital expenses, narrow the trade deficit and lower interest rates,” he added. WATCH| WION Dispatch: Nepal President wants new PM by Christmas Six other ministers were also named the prime minister and Bishnu Prasad Paudel was given the crucial post of finance minister. He has held the position of finance minister twice before. Rabi Lamichhane was appointed as the home (interior) minister. The prime minister kept the foreign ministry to himself. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes to Dahal on his appointment as the prime minister. "The unique relationship between India & Nepal is based on deep cultural connect & warm people-to-people ties. I look forward to working together with you to further strengthen this friendship,” Modi tweeted. A spokesperson of the Chinese embassy also congratulated Prachanda in a Twitter post. Prachanda, who was born in Kaski district's Dhikurpokhari near Pokhara on December 11, 1954, was underground for 13 years of his life. He participated the mainstream politics when peaceful politics was adopted by the CPN-Maoist, ending the country's decade-long armed insurgency. (With inputs from agencies)

Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ sworn in as new prime minister of Nepal

Ending the dramatic political chaos in Nepal, CPN-Maoist Centre chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" was on Sunday appointed as the prime minister for the third time after receiving support from opposition CPN-UML and other smaller parties.&nbsp;

In a meeting, CPN-UML led by K P Sharma Oli along with Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), CPN-Maoist Centre and other smaller parties decided to form the country's new government under Prachanda's leadership.&nbsp;

CPN-MC General Secretary Dev&nbsp;Gurung said that the CPN-MC, CPN-UML, and other parties&nbsp;staked their&nbsp;claim on the premiership of Prachanda at the President's Office ‘Sheetalniwas’ by submitting 165 lawmakers' signatures under the Constitution's Article 76 (2).&nbsp;

"He has been appointed and commands the support of a big majority of parliament," said Tika Dhakal, an aide to President Bidhya Devi Bhandari. The oath taking ceremony is likely to be held on Monday at 4 pm.

Along with Prachanda, Rastriya Prajatantra Party president Rajendra Lingden, Rastriya Swatantra Party President Ravi Lamichhane and Janata Samajwadi Party president Upendra Yadav had reached the residence of Oli, where they decided to appoint Prachanda as the next prime minister.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-president-gives-one-week-deadline-to-parties-to-form-new-government-544275">Nepal president grants one-week time to parties for forming new government</a>

In the meeting, Prachanda and Oli reached an understanding that they will lead the new government on a rotational basis and the latter then agreed to give Prachanda the first chance to become the prime minister as per his demand.

"This is the understanding. Remaining work of distribution of key other posts and ministries is still to be worked out," said Gurung after the meeting.

The new ruling alliance received the support of 165 lawmakers in the House of Representatives' 275 members which includes CPN-UML with 78, CPN-MC with 32, RSP with 20, RPP with 14, JSP with 12, Janamat with 6 and Nagarik Unmukti Party with three.

"As the largest party, the Nepali Congress failed to form a government under its leadership as per Article 76(2) of the Constitution within the president's deadline. Now, the CPN-UML has taken the initiative to form the new government under the leadership of Prachanda with the support of 165 lawmakers," said CPN-UML general secretary Shankar Pokharel, after the meeting.

WATCH| Nepal: Ruling coalition leaders to hold meeting, deadline to name new Prime Minister

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Ruling alliance breaks

On Sunday, Nepal's ruling alliance broke after Nepali Congress president and Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba failed to finalise a power-sharing deal with CPN-Maoist Centre chairman Prachanda.&nbsp;

The talks held over the power-sharing deal failed at the prime minister's residence at Baluwatar after Prachanda's offer of becoming the country's next prime minister in the first two and half years of the five-year term was rejected by PM Deuba, said CPN-MC Secretary Ganesh Shah.

Earlier, Prachanda and Deuba had agreed to a tacit understanding that they would become the prime minister of the new government on a rotational basis.

In the talks held on Sunday morning with Prachanda, Nepali Congress had tried to claim the two key posts of the government – the prime minister and president, which Prachanda had refused, leading to the failure of the talks, stated Maoist sources.

The speaker's post was offered by the Nepali Congress to the Maoist Party, which Prachanda immediately rejected. “Now the alliance has broken as the last-minute talks between Deuba and Prachanda failed to strike a deal,” said Shah.

After failing to reach the power-sharing deal with PM Deuba, Prachanda visited CPN-UML chairman Oli at his residence to seek his support for becoming the country's next prime minister.&nbsp;

After the elections, Nepali Congress had emerged as the House of Representatives' largest party with 89 seats, while CPN-UML and CPN-MC were able to clinch 78 and 32 seats, respectively.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ending the dramatic political chaos in Nepal, CPN-Maoist Centre chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" was on Sunday appointed as the prime minister for the third time after receiving support from opposition CPN-UML and other smaller parties.

Ending the dramatic political chaos in Nepal, CPN-Maoist Centre chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" was on Sunday appointed as the prime minister for the third time after receiving support from opposition CPN-UML and other smaller parties. In a meeting, CPN-UML led by K P Sharma Oli along with Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), CPN-Maoist Centre and other smaller parties decided to form the country's new government under Prachanda's leadership. CPN-MC General Secretary Dev Gurung said that the CPN-MC, CPN-UML, and other parties staked their claim on the premiership of Prachanda at the President's Office ‘Sheetalniwas’ by submitting 165 lawmakers' signatures under the Constitution's Article 76 (2). "He has been appointed and commands the support of a big majority of parliament," said Tika Dhakal, an aide to President Bidhya Devi Bhandari. The oath taking ceremony is likely to be held on Monday at 4 pm. Along with Prachanda, Rastriya Prajatantra Party president Rajendra Lingden, Rastriya Swatantra Party President Ravi Lamichhane and Janata Samajwadi Party president Upendra Yadav had reached the residence of Oli, where they decided to appoint Prachanda as the next prime minister. ALSO READ | Nepal president grants one-week time to parties for forming new government In the meeting, Prachanda and Oli reached an understanding that they will lead the new government on a rotational basis and the latter then agreed to give Prachanda the first chance to become the prime minister as per his demand. "This is the understanding. Remaining work of distribution of key other posts and ministries is still to be worked out," said Gurung after the meeting. The new ruling alliance received the support of 165 lawmakers in the House of Representatives' 275 members which includes CPN-UML with 78, CPN-MC with 32, RSP with 20, RPP with 14, JSP with 12, Janamat with 6 and Nagarik Unmukti Party with three. "As the largest party, the Nepali Congress failed to form a government under its leadership as per Article 76(2) of the Constitution within the president's deadline. Now, the CPN-UML has taken the initiative to form the new government under the leadership of Prachanda with the support of 165 lawmakers," said CPN-UML general secretary Shankar Pokharel, after the meeting. WATCH| Nepal: Ruling coalition leaders to hold meeting, deadline to name new Prime Minister Ruling alliance breaks On Sunday, Nepal's ruling alliance broke after Nepali Congress president and Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba failed to finalise a power-sharing deal with CPN-Maoist Centre chairman Prachanda. The talks held over the power-sharing deal failed at the prime minister's residence at Baluwatar after Prachanda's offer of becoming the country's next prime minister in the first two and half years of the five-year term was rejected by PM Deuba, said CPN-MC Secretary Ganesh Shah. Earlier, Prachanda and Deuba had agreed to a tacit understanding that they would become the prime minister of the new government on a rotational basis. In the talks held on Sunday morning with Prachanda, Nepali Congress had tried to claim the two key posts of the government – the prime minister and president, which Prachanda had refused, leading to the failure of the talks, stated Maoist sources. The speaker's post was offered by the Nepali Congress to the Maoist Party, which Prachanda immediately rejected. “Now the alliance has broken as the last-minute talks between Deuba and Prachanda failed to strike a deal,” said Shah. After failing to reach the power-sharing deal with PM Deuba, Prachanda visited CPN-UML chairman Oli at his residence to seek his support for becoming the country's next prime minister. After the elections, Nepali Congress had emerged as the House of Representatives' largest party with 89 seats, while CPN-UML and CPN-MC were able to clinch 78 and 32 seats, respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' appointed as Nepal’s PM with Oli-led CPN-UML’s support

Videocon Group founder Venugopal Dhoot was arrested by CBI officials on Monday in the ICICI Bank loan fraud case, stated the officials.&nbsp;

In the early morning hours of Monday, a brief questioning session was held with the 71-year-old Dhoot after which he was arrested in Mumbai.&nbsp;

Dhoot has been arrested hours after ICICI Bank's former CEO and MD Chanda Kochhar, along with her husband Deepak Kochhar were produced for a remand hearing in a Special Court.

The officials said that a charge sheet will be soon filed by the CBI against the Kochhars and Dhoot, along with other suspects. The three-day remand of Chanda and her husband, who was arrested on December 23, will get over on Monday.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ex-icici-bank-ceo-chanda-kochhar-husband-arrested-by-cbi-in-videocon-loan-fraud-case-546165">Ex-ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar, husband arrested by CBI in Videocon loan fraud case</a>

Chanda and Deepak Kochhar were taken into custody by the CBI after it was alleged that the couple were not co-operating with the bureau's investigation and providing evasive replies.

During the remand hearing at the CBI Special Court on December 24, the bureau said that Chanda denied having knowledge of pecuniary transactions between Dhoot and her husband.

Senior advocate Amit Desai, who appeared in the court to defend the Kochhars, opposed the need for remand, stating that the "main borrower of the loan has not been arrested, and the present accused was not the beneficiary of any amount”.

Desai also brought to the notice of the court a letter sent by the ICICI Bank to the CBI in July 202I which stated that the bank had no wrongful loss in any of the transactions highlighted by the bureau.

WATCH| Gravitas: Will Nirav Modi be extradited to India?

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Chanda and Deepak Kochhar, along with Dhoot and companies Supreme Energy, Videocon International Electronics Ltd, Nupower Renewables (NRL) managed by Deepak Kochhar and Videocon Industries Limited, have been named as accused by the CBI in the FIR filed under IPC sections of criminal conspiracy as well as provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act in 2019, the officials stated.

The investigation bureau has alleged that credit facilities of Rs3,250 crore were sanctioned by the ICICI to the Videocon Group's companies promoted by Dhoot, which violated the bank's credit policy, RBI guidelines and the Banking Regulation Act.&nbsp;

It also alleged that an investment of Rs64 crore was made by Dhoot in Nupower Renewables through Supreme Energy Pvt Ltd (SEPL) and SEPL was transferred to Pinnacle Energy Trust, which Deepak Kochhar was managing between 2010 and 2012.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Videocon Group founder Venugopal Dhoot was arrested by CBI officials on Monday in the ICICI Bank loan fraud case, stated the officials. In the early morning hours of Monday, a brief questioning session was held with the 71-year-old Dhoot after which he was arrested in Mumbai.

Videocon Group founder Venugopal Dhoot was arrested by CBI officials on Monday in the ICICI Bank loan fraud case, stated the officials. In the early morning hours of Monday, a brief questioning session was held with the 71-year-old Dhoot after which he was arrested in Mumbai. Dhoot has been arrested hours after ICICI Bank's former CEO and MD Chanda Kochhar, along with her husband Deepak Kochhar were produced for a remand hearing in a Special Court. The officials said that a charge sheet will be soon filed by the CBI against the Kochhars and Dhoot, along with other suspects. The three-day remand of Chanda and her husband, who was arrested on December 23, will get over on Monday. ALSO READ| Ex-ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar, husband arrested by CBI in Videocon loan fraud case Chanda and Deepak Kochhar were taken into custody by the CBI after it was alleged that the couple were not co-operating with the bureau's investigation and providing evasive replies. During the remand hearing at the CBI Special Court on December 24, the bureau said that Chanda denied having knowledge of pecuniary transactions between Dhoot and her husband. Senior advocate Amit Desai, who appeared in the court to defend the Kochhars, opposed the need for remand, stating that the "main borrower of the loan has not been arrested, and the present accused was not the beneficiary of any amount”. Desai also brought to the notice of the court a letter sent by the ICICI Bank to the CBI in July 202I which stated that the bank had no wrongful loss in any of the transactions highlighted by the bureau. WATCH| Gravitas: Will Nirav Modi be extradited to India? Chanda and Deepak Kochhar, along with Dhoot and companies Supreme Energy, Videocon International Electronics Ltd, Nupower Renewables (NRL) managed by Deepak Kochhar and Videocon Industries Limited, have been named as accused by the CBI in the FIR filed under IPC sections of criminal conspiracy as well as provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act in 2019, the officials stated. The investigation bureau has alleged that credit facilities of Rs3,250 crore were sanctioned by the ICICI to the Videocon Group's companies promoted by Dhoot, which violated the bank's credit policy, RBI guidelines and the Banking Regulation Act. It also alleged that an investment of Rs64 crore was made by Dhoot in Nupower Renewables through Supreme Energy Pvt Ltd (SEPL) and SEPL was transferred to Pinnacle Energy Trust, which Deepak Kochhar was managing between 2010 and 2012. (With inputs from agencies)

ICICI loan fraud case: CBI arrests Videocon founder Venugopal Dhoot

These are world's top cuisines. Which ones have you tried?

The US Embassy of Islamabad issued a security alert on Sunday, warning its officials of a possible attack on the US citizens in the Pakistan capital's top hotel amid the city already being on high alert after the suicide bombing that took place earlier in the week.

In its security alert, the embassy said that the US government has the information that “unknown individuals are possibly plotting to attack Americans at the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad sometime during the holidays,”.

In the advisory, the embassy banned its American staff from visiting the top-class hotel in Islamabad during the holidays.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-taliban-kills-six-security-personnel-in-multiple-attacks-in-balochistan-546507">Pakistani Taliban kills six security personnel in multiple attacks in Balochistan</a>

All official personnel were also appealed to by the US mission from avoiding any non-essential travel to Islamabad during the holiday season.

Meanwhile, the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth &amp; Development Office (FCDO) also issued a travel advisory barring its officials from travelling to districts of Baujar, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Kurram, North Waziristan and South Waziristan in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province and the districts of Charsadda, Kohat, Tank, Bannu, Lakki, Dera Ismail Khan, Swat, Buner and Lower Dir in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and the city and district of Peshawar.&nbsp;

The advisory also stops officials from travelling on the N45 road, from the north of the Mardan ring road to the edge of the district of Chitral, Balochistan province excluding the southern coast of Balochistan (see below), the section of the N35 (or Karakoram Highway) between the Mansehra ring road and the N15/N35 Chilas interchange and within 10 miles of the Line of Control

The directive was issued by the embassy two days after Islamabad was rocked by a suicide bombing which took place in a residential area, killing one police officer and injuring ten others.

WATCH| WION Dispatch: Pakistan politics devolves into dirty leak war? New audio leaks in country

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The explosion took place after a taxi was stopped by the police for inspection during a police patrol. As per the police, the explosives were detonated by a rear-seat passenger, who was carrying them, leading to the blast in the vehicle.

The attack was claimed by militants of the Pakistani Taliban, who work separately but are allied with the rulers of Afghanistan.

Since then, the city has been placed on high alert by the administration of Islamabad, and processions and public gatherings have been banned, even though campaigns for local elections are ongoing. Police are continuously patrolling the city and snap checkpoints have been set up for inspecting vehicles across the capital.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US Embassy of Islamabad issued a security alert on Sunday, warning its officials of a possible attack on the US citizens in the Pakistan capital's top hotel amid the city already being on high alert after the suicide bombing that took place earlier in the week.

The US Embassy of Islamabad issued a security alert on Sunday, warning its officials of a possible attack on the US citizens in the Pakistan capital's top hotel amid the city already being on high alert after the suicide bombing that took place earlier in the week. In its security alert, the embassy said that the US government has the information that “unknown individuals are possibly plotting to attack Americans at the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad sometime during the holidays,”. In the advisory, the embassy banned its American staff from visiting the top-class hotel in Islamabad during the holidays. ALSO READ| Pakistani Taliban kills six security personnel in multiple attacks in Balochistan All official personnel were also appealed to by the US mission from avoiding any non-essential travel to Islamabad during the holiday season. Meanwhile, the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) also issued a travel advisory barring its officials from travelling to districts of Baujar, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Kurram, North Waziristan and South Waziristan in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province and the districts of Charsadda, Kohat, Tank, Bannu, Lakki, Dera Ismail Khan, Swat, Buner and Lower Dir in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and the city and district of Peshawar. The advisory also stops officials from travelling on the N45 road, from the north of the Mardan ring road to the edge of the district of Chitral, Balochistan province excluding the southern coast of Balochistan (see below), the section of the N35 (or Karakoram Highway) between the Mansehra ring road and the N15/N35 Chilas interchange and within 10 miles of the Line of Control The directive was issued by the embassy two days after Islamabad was rocked by a suicide bombing which took place in a residential area, killing one police officer and injuring ten others. WATCH| WION Dispatch: Pakistan politics devolves into dirty leak war? New audio leaks in country The explosion took place after a taxi was stopped by the police for inspection during a police patrol. As per the police, the explosives were detonated by a rear-seat passenger, who was carrying them, leading to the blast in the vehicle. The attack was claimed by militants of the Pakistani Taliban, who work separately but are allied with the rulers of Afghanistan. Since then, the city has been placed on high alert by the administration of Islamabad, and processions and public gatherings have been banned, even though campaigns for local elections are ongoing. Police are continuously patrolling the city and snap checkpoints have been set up for inspecting vehicles across the capital. (With inputs from agencies)

US embassy issues security alert, warns officials against visiting Islamabad's Marriott Hotel

Delivering his Christmas message on Sunday from St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, Pope Francis called for ending the "senseless" war between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;The 86-year-old pope further warned that the ongoing war has aggravated food shortage in the world, and appealed to the leaders not to use "food as a weapon” for war.

The Catholic Church's head was addressing the faithful gathered in huge numbers in St Peter's Square, a few of them carrying Ukrainian flags, before he delivered the "Urbi et Orbi" blessing ("to the city and the world").

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jesus-was-poor-pope-francis-in-his-christmas-eve-address-urges-people-to-not-be-power-hungry-546415">'Jesus was also poor': Pope Francis in his Christmas eve address, urges people not to be power-hungry</a>

Pope Francis has repeatedly appealed for peace since Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February, criticising the war but trying to maintain delicate dialogue with Russia.&nbsp;

Speaking from the central balcony at St Peter's, the pope recalled, "Our Ukrainian brothers and sisters who are experiencing this Christmas in the dark and cold, far from their homes."

He said, "May the Lord inspire us to offer concrete gestures of solidarity to assist all those who are suffering, and may he enlighten the minds of those who have the power to silence the thunder of weapons and put an immediate end to this senseless war!"

"Tragically, we prefer to heed other counsels, dictated by worldly ways of thinking,"&nbsp;he added, recalling "with sorrow" that "the icy winds of war continue to buffet humanity". 
 
"Our time is experiencing a grave famine of peace also in other regions and other theatres of this third world war," Pope Francis added.

He also talked about other countries facing difficult times during Christmas, whether because of internal conflict or crisis like Yemen, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine and Haiti.&nbsp;

Pope France, for the first time, also appealed for "reconciliation" in Iran, which is witnessing protests led by women for the last three months.

WATCH | Gravitas: Pope orders Vatican to return Parthenon marbles

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He asked everyone celebrating Christmas to remember the people "who go hungry while huge amounts of food daily go to waste and resources are being spent on weapons".

"The war in Ukraine has further aggravated this situation, putting entire peoples at risk of famine, especially in Afghanistan and in the countries of the Horn of Africa. We know that every war causes hunger and exploits food as a weapon, hindering its distribution to people already suffering,” Pope Francis said.

"On this day, let us learn from the Prince of Peace (Jesus Christ) and, starting with those who hold political responsibilities, commit ourselves to making food solely an instrument of peace,” he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Delivering his Christmas message on Sunday from St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, Pope Francis called for ending the "senseless" war between Russia and Ukraine.

Delivering his Christmas message on Sunday from St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, Pope Francis called for ending the "senseless" war between Russia and Ukraine. The 86-year-old pope further warned that the ongoing war has aggravated food shortage in the world, and appealed to the leaders not to use "food as a weapon” for war. The Catholic Church's head was addressing the faithful gathered in huge numbers in St Peter's Square, a few of them carrying Ukrainian flags, before he delivered the "Urbi et Orbi" blessing ("to the city and the world"). ALSO READ | 'Jesus was also poor': Pope Francis in his Christmas eve address, urges people not to be power-hungry Pope Francis has repeatedly appealed for peace since Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February, criticising the war but trying to maintain delicate dialogue with Russia. Speaking from the central balcony at St Peter's, the pope recalled, "Our Ukrainian brothers and sisters who are experiencing this Christmas in the dark and cold, far from their homes." He said, "May the Lord inspire us to offer concrete gestures of solidarity to assist all those who are suffering, and may he enlighten the minds of those who have the power to silence the thunder of weapons and put an immediate end to this senseless war!" "Tragically, we prefer to heed other counsels, dictated by worldly ways of thinking," he added, recalling "with sorrow" that "the icy winds of war continue to buffet humanity". "Our time is experiencing a grave famine of peace also in other regions and other theatres of this third world war," Pope Francis added. He also talked about other countries facing difficult times during Christmas, whether because of internal conflict or crisis like Yemen, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine and Haiti. Pope France, for the first time, also appealed for "reconciliation" in Iran, which is witnessing protests led by women for the last three months. WATCH | Gravitas: Pope orders Vatican to return Parthenon marbles He asked everyone celebrating Christmas to remember the people "who go hungry while huge amounts of food daily go to waste and resources are being spent on weapons". "The war in Ukraine has further aggravated this situation, putting entire peoples at risk of famine, especially in Afghanistan and in the countries of the Horn of Africa. We know that every war causes hunger and exploits food as a weapon, hindering its distribution to people already suffering,” Pope Francis said. "On this day, let us learn from the Prince of Peace (Jesus Christ) and, starting with those who hold political responsibilities, commit ourselves to making food solely an instrument of peace,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

In Christmas message, Pope Francis appeals to end ‘senseless’ Russia-Ukraine war

The United States faced a fierce winter storm as parts of the country reported blizzard conditions on Saturday evening after millions of people were left in dark without power due to the powerful Arctic blast earlier in the day and made travel for home goers in Christmas a nightmare.&nbsp;The country has confirmed around 17 deaths related to the winter storm across eight states, as the nation continues to remain in deep freeze for the third day.

National Guard was deployed by New York's Governor Kathy Hochul to Erie County along with its main city Buffalo, where it was reported by authorities that emergency services were not functional.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epic-winter-storm-hits-200-million-americans-as-millions-face-power-outage-ahead-of-holiday-season-546327">'Epic' winter storm hits Americans, as millions face power outage ahead of holiday season</a>

The National Weather Service (NWS), on Saturday night, issued a warning that the blizzard conditions caused by lake-effect snow in the Great Lakes regions will continue into Christmas Day. They added that there would be "only slow moderation of temperatures into Monday".

The deadly winter storm resulted in the cancellation of 3,300 US flights and delayed more than 7,500 flights on Saturday, a day after almost 6,000 flights were scrapped.

On Saturday, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg tweeted, "The most extreme disruptions are behind us as airline and airport operations gradually recover."

White-out conditions, zero visibility and road ice also led to the closing of a few busiest transport routes of the country, which included the cross-country Interstate 70.

WATCH| WION Climate Tracker: Arctic storm brings holiday travel chaos to U.S.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-arctic-storm-brings-holiday-travel-chaos-to-us-546093/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a warning regarding lethal conditions and appealed to residents to stay indoors in affected areas. A day after 1.7 million were left in a power blackout, the electricity was restored on Saturday, as residents were appealed to save electricity and rolling blackouts were introduced in a few parts of the nation, which included North Carolina.&nbsp;

"The life-threatening cold temperatures and in combination with dangerous wind chills will create a potentially life-threatening hazard for travellers that become stranded, individuals that work outside, livestock and domestic pets," the NWS stated in its advisory.&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>

The United States faced a fierce winter storm as parts of the country reported blizzard conditions on Saturday evening after millions of people were left in dark without power due to the powerful Arctic blast earlier in the day and made travel for home goers in Christmas a nightmare.

The United States faced a fierce winter storm as parts of the country reported blizzard conditions on Saturday evening after millions of people were left in dark without power due to the powerful Arctic blast earlier in the day and made travel for home goers in Christmas a nightmare. The country has confirmed around 17 deaths related to the winter storm across eight states, as the nation continues to remain in deep freeze for the third day. National Guard was deployed by New York's Governor Kathy Hochul to Erie County along with its main city Buffalo, where it was reported by authorities that emergency services were not functional. ALSO READ| 'Epic' winter storm hits Americans, as millions face power outage ahead of holiday season The National Weather Service (NWS), on Saturday night, issued a warning that the blizzard conditions caused by lake-effect snow in the Great Lakes regions will continue into Christmas Day. They added that there would be "only slow moderation of temperatures into Monday". The deadly winter storm resulted in the cancellation of 3,300 US flights and delayed more than 7,500 flights on Saturday, a day after almost 6,000 flights were scrapped. On Saturday, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg tweeted, "The most extreme disruptions are behind us as airline and airport operations gradually recover." White-out conditions, zero visibility and road ice also led to the closing of a few busiest transport routes of the country, which included the cross-country Interstate 70. WATCH| WION Climate Tracker: Arctic storm brings holiday travel chaos to U.S. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a warning regarding lethal conditions and appealed to residents to stay indoors in affected areas. A day after 1.7 million were left in a power blackout, the electricity was restored on Saturday, as residents were appealed to save electricity and rolling blackouts were introduced in a few parts of the nation, which included North Carolina. "The life-threatening cold temperatures and in combination with dangerous wind chills will create a potentially life-threatening hazard for travellers that become stranded, individuals that work outside, livestock and domestic pets," the NWS stated in its advisory. (With inputs from agencies)

17 killed as deadly arctic blast sweeps US leaving Christmas celebrations in deep freeze

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