Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has requested Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri to start a direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai at the earliest.

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister, Pradhan said that while Bhubaneswar is connected internationally, via direct flight to only Bangkok, more than 15,000 Odia people residing in different parts of United Arab Emirates (UAE) are forced to undertake an indirect route for travelling to Odisha.

"At present Bhubaneswar is connected internationally, via direct flight, to only one destination i.e. Bangkok, Thailand. Three has been a long pending request from various quarters for introducing a direct flight from Bhubaneswar to Dubai, UAE," read the letter.

"I am made to understand that there are more than 15,000 Odia people residing in different parts of UAE who are forced to undertake an indirect route for travelling to Odisha. I also understand the Odia society of UAE had a meeting with GM Air India Middle-east and Africa regarding the viability of a direct Air India flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai based on a favourable traffic data between these two destinations," Pradhan stated in his letter.

"Keeping in mind the welfare of commuters to and from Bhubaneswar-Dubai and larger potential for the development of Odisha. I request your personal intervention in launching a direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai at the earliest," requested Pradhan.

Underlining the importance of a direct flight, Pradhan mentioned that Bhubaneswar is an educational, healthcare, cultural and tourist hub with rich potential for medical tourism, cultural tourism, and educational exchange programmes.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has requested Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri to start a direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai at the earliest.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has requested Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri to start a direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai at the earliest. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister, Pradhan said that while Bhubaneswar is connected internationally, via direct flight to only Bangkok, more than 15,000 Odia people residing in different parts of United Arab Emirates (UAE) are forced to undertake an indirect route for travelling to Odisha. "At present Bhubaneswar is connected internationally, via direct flight, to only one destination i.e. Bangkok, Thailand. Three has been a long pending request from various quarters for introducing a direct flight from Bhubaneswar to Dubai, UAE," read the letter. "I am made to understand that there are more than 15,000 Odia people residing in different parts of UAE who are forced to undertake an indirect route for travelling to Odisha. I also understand the Odia society of UAE had a meeting with GM Air India Middle-east and Africa regarding the viability of a direct Air India flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai based on a favourable traffic data between these two destinations," Pradhan stated in his letter. "Keeping in mind the welfare of commuters to and from Bhubaneswar-Dubai and larger potential for the development of Odisha. I request your personal intervention in launching a direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai at the earliest," requested Pradhan. Underlining the importance of a direct flight, Pradhan mentioned that Bhubaneswar is an educational, healthcare, cultural and tourist hub with rich potential for medical tourism, cultural tourism, and educational exchange programmes.

Dharmendra Pradhan requests for a direct flight connecting Bhubaneswar to Dubai

Telugu Desam Party chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-chandrababu-naidu-son-nara-lokesh-put-under-preventive-detention-248958">N Chandrababu</a> on Tuesday called YSRCP Chief and Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy a 'psycho'&nbsp;alleging that he is acting in a vindictive manner as false cases are being filed against TDP leaders.

"Our party leaders were booked under various cases despite the fact that they did nothing wrong. Cases are being filed on TDP leaders for petty reasons by a person of no integrity. Cases filed by YSRCP against Kodela Siva Prasada Rao with non-bailable sections were petty. Jagan Reddy is a psycho, who is acting in a vindictive manner," said Naidu in a press conference.

The former Andhra Pradesh chief minister also alleged that lawyers of Kodela were badly treated.

"When we approached the DGP to look into the matter, he expressed helplessness. How can such DGP save law and order? Now, we will go to any extent, we will fight legally to get justice for Kodela," he said.

Levying accusations on YSRCP for the alleged suicide of former assembly speaker Kodela, Naidu said: "A person had filed SC, ST atrocity case against Kodela. It was the utter misuse of the act as he was abroad at that time. Who is responsible (for the death of Kodela)? Is the Chief Minister not responsible? You drove a brave person Kodela into a condition that he committed suicide."

Seeking Reddy's explanation in the case, the TDP president said: "Why Jagan is remaining silent on the issue? Whenever any allegation is levelled against me, I always give an explanation."

Naidu concluded saying that police should act in a fair manner in the suicide case of Kodela and make ensure that law and order are maintained.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister Botsa Satyanarayana have asked for a comprehensive investigation on the suicide of Kodela at Hyderabad where the incident took place.

Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu on Tuesday called YSRCP Chief and Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy a 'psycho' alleging that he is acting in a vindictive manner as false cases are being filed against TDP leaders.

Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu on Tuesday called YSRCP Chief and Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy a 'psycho' alleging that he is acting in a vindictive manner as false cases are being filed against TDP leaders. "Our party leaders were booked under various cases despite the fact that they did nothing wrong. Cases are being filed on TDP leaders for petty reasons by a person of no integrity. Cases filed by YSRCP against Kodela Siva Prasada Rao with non-bailable sections were petty. Jagan Reddy is a psycho, who is acting in a vindictive manner," said Naidu in a press conference. The former Andhra Pradesh chief minister also alleged that lawyers of Kodela were badly treated. "When we approached the DGP to look into the matter, he expressed helplessness. How can such DGP save law and order? Now, we will go to any extent, we will fight legally to get justice for Kodela," he said. Levying accusations on YSRCP for the alleged suicide of former assembly speaker Kodela, Naidu said: "A person had filed SC, ST atrocity case against Kodela. It was the utter misuse of the act as he was abroad at that time. Who is responsible (for the death of Kodela)? Is the Chief Minister not responsible? You drove a brave person Kodela into a condition that he committed suicide." Seeking Reddy's explanation in the case, the TDP president said: "Why Jagan is remaining silent on the issue? Whenever any allegation is levelled against me, I always give an explanation." Naidu concluded saying that police should act in a fair manner in the suicide case of Kodela and make ensure that law and order are maintained. Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister Botsa Satyanarayana have asked for a comprehensive investigation on the suicide of Kodela at Hyderabad where the incident took place.

Andhra Chief Minister Jagan Reddy acting in a vindictive manner: Chandrababu Naidu

A petition has been filled in the apex court seeking its direction in the issue of around 2,000 transgenders being excluded from the list of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/final-list-of-assam-nrc-out-over-19-lakh-excluded-311-crore-included-in-list-246782">National Register of Citizens</a> (NRC) of Assam.

Speaking to ANI on the issue of the exclusion of transgenders from the list, Assam's first transgender judge and petitioner Swati Bidhan Baruah said,&nbsp;"Most transgenders were abandoned, they do not have documents pertaining to before 1971. Objection applications did not contain 'others' as a gender category."

She also alleged that the NRC exercise was not inclusive for the transgender community.

"NRC was not inclusive for transgenders and forced them to accept male or female as their gender. We are hoping the Supreme Court will take into consideration our petition," Baruah said.

Over 3 crore persons were found eligible for inclusion in final NRC leaving out more than 19 lakh persons including those who did not submit their claims.

Those not satisfied with the outcome can file an appeal before Foreigners Tribunals, a government statement said.

A petition has been filled in the apex court seeking its direction in the issue of around 2,000 transgenders being excluded from the list of National Register of Citizens (NRC) of Assam.

A petition has been filled in the apex court seeking its direction in the issue of around 2,000 transgenders being excluded from the list of National Register of Citizens (NRC) of Assam. Speaking to ANI on the issue of the exclusion of transgenders from the list, Assam's first transgender judge and petitioner Swati Bidhan Baruah said, "Most transgenders were abandoned, they do not have documents pertaining to before 1971. Objection applications did not contain 'others' as a gender category." She also alleged that the NRC exercise was not inclusive for the transgender community. "NRC was not inclusive for transgenders and forced them to accept male or female as their gender. We are hoping the Supreme Court will take into consideration our petition," Baruah said. Over 3 crore persons were found eligible for inclusion in final NRC leaving out more than 19 lakh persons including those who did not submit their claims. Those not satisfied with the outcome can file an appeal before Foreigners Tribunals, a government statement said.

Around 2,000 transgender excluded from Assam NRC list, plea filed in Supreme Court

The Supreme Court on Wednesday said that the Ayodhya case hearings must be completed by October 18.

The five-judge Constitution bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said, "As per the estimate of tentative dates to finish the hearing in the case, we can say that the submissions have to be likely completed by October 18."

Gogoi further said that if the petitioners want, they can settle the dispute through mediation. The court also said daily hearings will continue in the case.

"Simultaneously the mediation process can go along with the hearing, which is going on in Supreme Court, and if an amicable settlement is reached through by it, the same can be filed before the Supreme Court," Gogoi further added.

Last month, after the Supreme Court observed that the mediation panel on Ayodhya matter, failed to achieve any final settlement in the matter, then the court decided to hold a day-to-day hearing in the case.

Fourteen appeals are pending before the apex court against the 2010 Allahabad High Court verdict, which ordered equal division of the 2.77 acres disputed land in Ayodhya among the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla.

The 16th century Babri Masjid was demolished on December 6, 1992.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday said that the Ayodhya case hearings must be completed by October 18. The five-judge Constitution bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said, "As per the estimate of tentative dates to finish the hearing in the case, we can say that the submissions have to be likely completed by October 18.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday said that the Ayodhya case hearings must be completed by October 18. The five-judge Constitution bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said, "As per the estimate of tentative dates to finish the hearing in the case, we can say that the submissions have to be likely completed by October 18." Gogoi further said that if the petitioners want, they can settle the dispute through mediation. The court also said daily hearings will continue in the case. "Simultaneously the mediation process can go along with the hearing, which is going on in Supreme Court, and if an amicable settlement is reached through by it, the same can be filed before the Supreme Court," Gogoi further added. Last month, after the Supreme Court observed that the mediation panel on Ayodhya matter, failed to achieve any final settlement in the matter, then the court decided to hold a day-to-day hearing in the case. Fourteen appeals are pending before the apex court against the 2010 Allahabad High Court verdict, which ordered equal division of the 2.77 acres disputed land in Ayodhya among the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla. The 16th century Babri Masjid was demolished on December 6, 1992.

Supreme Court sets October 18 deadline to conclude Ayodhya case, allows mediation

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said the amended Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) has the support of almost all states even as Gujarat and Uttarakhand tweaked rules to lower hefty fines.

Speaking to media at an event here, Gadkari said that only "one-two states" has raised objections on some provision that provides for heavy fines.

"Only one-two states have objections on just one-two clauses related to fines. There is no objection to other provisions. Most of the states have supported the Act. I have talked to chief ministers. We will get everyone's support and succeed in our mission," he said here.

The minister said the government did not aim at increasing its revenue by the fines but is intended to make people respect the law.

He further said: "The Centre does not get any share in revue collected by the fines and the states have the right to change the rate of penalties."

"I am getting feedback that people now do not cross the white traffic line. There is four to fivefold surge of people lining up to get a fitness certificate. Now they understand that it is their interests," he said.

BJP-ruled Gujarat and Uttarakhand have relaxed traffic rules to lower fines, while Karnataka is in consideration to slash the penalties.

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said the amended Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) has the support of almost all states even as Gujarat and Uttarakhand tweaked rules to lower hefty fines.

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said the amended Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) has the support of almost all states even as Gujarat and Uttarakhand tweaked rules to lower hefty fines. Speaking to media at an event here, Gadkari said that only "one-two states" has raised objections on some provision that provides for heavy fines. "Only one-two states have objections on just one-two clauses related to fines. There is no objection to other provisions. Most of the states have supported the Act. I have talked to chief ministers. We will get everyone's support and succeed in our mission," he said here. The minister said the government did not aim at increasing its revenue by the fines but is intended to make people respect the law. He further said: "The Centre does not get any share in revue collected by the fines and the states have the right to change the rate of penalties." "I am getting feedback that people now do not cross the white traffic line. There is four to fivefold surge of people lining up to get a fitness certificate. Now they understand that it is their interests," he said. BJP-ruled Gujarat and Uttarakhand have relaxed traffic rules to lower fines, while Karnataka is in consideration to slash the penalties.

Most of the states support new motor vehicle rules: Nitin Gadkari

A plea to remove PML-N leader Maryam Nawaz, who is currently in the National Accountability Bureau`s (NAB) physical remand, as Vice President of the party was dismissed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday.

A three-member bench headed by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) retired Justice Sardar Mohammad Raza Khan disposed of a petition filed by PTI lawmakers, including Farrukh Habib, Maleeka Bokhari, Kanwal Shauzab and Javeria Zafar, against her appointment, Dawn reported.

A PML-N spokesperson reacting to the decision said that PTI had gone to ECP with the petition for cheap publicity.&nbsp;

A PTI spokesperson said the ECP decision was "contrary to the judgement of the Supreme Court in the Zulfiqar Bhutta case.''

In their petition before the ECP, PTI lawmakers had challenged Maryam`s appointment as Vice President saying that she could not hold any position in the party as she was convicted in a corruption case.

Maryam was sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment by an accountability court in its judgement on the Avenfield apartments reference.

A plea to remove PML-N leader Maryam Nawaz, who is currently in the National Accountability Bureau`s (NAB) physical remand, as Vice President of the party was dismissed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday.

A plea to remove PML-N leader Maryam Nawaz, who is currently in the National Accountability Bureau`s (NAB) physical remand, as Vice President of the party was dismissed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday. A three-member bench headed by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) retired Justice Sardar Mohammad Raza Khan disposed of a petition filed by PTI lawmakers, including Farrukh Habib, Maleeka Bokhari, Kanwal Shauzab and Javeria Zafar, against her appointment, Dawn reported. A PML-N spokesperson reacting to the decision said that PTI had gone to ECP with the petition for cheap publicity. A PTI spokesperson said the ECP decision was "contrary to the judgement of the Supreme Court in the Zulfiqar Bhutta case.'' In their petition before the ECP, PTI lawmakers had challenged Maryam`s appointment as Vice President saying that she could not hold any position in the party as she was convicted in a corruption case. Maryam was sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment by an accountability court in its judgement on the Avenfield apartments reference.

Election Commission of Pakistan dismisses plea seeking Maryam Nawaz's removal as PML-N vice president

Equity benchmark indices were largely flat during early hours on Wednesday despite positive global cues as crude oil prices cooled.

At 10:15 am, the BSE S&amp;P Sensex was up by 19 points to 36,500 while the Nifty 50 was down by 7 points to 10,811.

At the National Stock Exchange, sectoral indices were mixed with Nifty auto down by 0.9 per cent FMCG by 0.3 per cent and pharma by 0.1 per cent. Nifty bank, financial service, IT, media and metal showed small gains.

Auto majors traded with a bearish bias and Maruti down by 1.5 per cent, Hero MotoCorp by 0.8 per cent, Eicher Motors by 0.7 per cent and Bajaj Auto by 0.4 per cent.

Britannia lost by 2.8 per cent while UPL was down by 2.7 per cent. The other prominent losers were Cipla, Coal India, Hindustan Lever and NTPC.

However, those which showed marginal gains were Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Finserv, Tata Steel, JSW Steel, Reliance Industries and Vedanta. Government-owned oil marketing firms Bharat Petroleum Corporation and IndianOil Corporation too were in the green.

Meanwhile, Asian markets were mixed as oil prices cooled after Saudi Arabia said full oil production will be restored by month's end.

A day earlier, investor sentiment had taken a beating following Saturday's attack on Saudi oil facilities which halved the kingdom's oil output, creating the biggest disruption to global oil supplies in absolute terms since 1979,

On Wednesday, MSCI's broadest index of Asia Pacific shares outside Japan was up by 0.13 per cent while Japan's Nikkei was flat.

Investors also awaited announcements on an expected interest rate cut from the US Federal Reserve and the next round of US-China trade talks later this week.

Equity benchmark indices were largely flat during early hours on Wednesday despite positive global cues as crude oil prices cooled. At 10:15 am, the BSE S&P Sensex was up by 19 points to 36,500 while the Nifty 50 was down by 7 points to 10,811.

Equity benchmark indices were largely flat during early hours on Wednesday despite positive global cues as crude oil prices cooled. At 10:15 am, the BSE S&P Sensex was up by 19 points to 36,500 while the Nifty 50 was down by 7 points to 10,811. At the National Stock Exchange, sectoral indices were mixed with Nifty auto down by 0.9 per cent FMCG by 0.3 per cent and pharma by 0.1 per cent. Nifty bank, financial service, IT, media and metal showed small gains. Auto majors traded with a bearish bias and Maruti down by 1.5 per cent, Hero MotoCorp by 0.8 per cent, Eicher Motors by 0.7 per cent and Bajaj Auto by 0.4 per cent. Britannia lost by 2.8 per cent while UPL was down by 2.7 per cent. The other prominent losers were Cipla, Coal India, Hindustan Lever and NTPC. However, those which showed marginal gains were Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Finserv, Tata Steel, JSW Steel, Reliance Industries and Vedanta. Government-owned oil marketing firms Bharat Petroleum Corporation and IndianOil Corporation too were in the green. Meanwhile, Asian markets were mixed as oil prices cooled after Saudi Arabia said full oil production will be restored by month's end. A day earlier, investor sentiment had taken a beating following Saturday's attack on Saudi oil facilities which halved the kingdom's oil output, creating the biggest disruption to global oil supplies in absolute terms since 1979, On Wednesday, MSCI's broadest index of Asia Pacific shares outside Japan was up by 0.13 per cent while Japan's Nikkei was flat. Investors also awaited announcements on an expected interest rate cut from the US Federal Reserve and the next round of US-China trade talks later this week.

Equity gauges flat in volatile trading, auto stocks lose further

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-blames-iran-for-saudi-attacks-pretend-diplomacy-249751">US</a> Secretary of State Mike Pompeo departed for Saudi Arabia Tuesday to discuss possible retaliation after Washington said it had proof that attacks on Saudi oil installations originated in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-dismisses-us-claim-it-was-behind-saudi-oil-attacks-says-ready-for-war-249810">Iran</a>.

Vice President Mike Pence announced that Pompeo was on his way to the kingdom to "discuss our response."

"As the president said, we don't want war with anybody but the United States is prepared," Pence said in a speech in Washington.

"We're locked and loaded and we're ready to defend our interests and allies in the region, make no mistake about it," he said, echoing President Donald Trump's words on Sunday.

A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP that the Trump administration has concluded that last weekend's attack involved cruise missiles from Iran and that evidence would be presented at the UN General Assembly next week.

The apparent hardening of the US position came as Iran's supreme leader ruled out negotiations with Washington "at any level."

This appeared to nix remaining hopes for a dramatic meeting between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-does-not-rule-out-trump-rouhani-meeting-after-saudi-attacks-249856">Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani</a> at the United Nations next week.

Speaking to reporters on Air Force One over California, Trump said he too had cooled on what had always seemed to be a diplomatic longshot.

"I never rule anything out, but I prefer not meeting him," Trump said.

'It's not possible'

Yemen's Iranian-backed Huthi rebels claimed responsibility for Saturday's oil installation attacks, which halved output from the petro-state, a close ally of Washington.

But a senior US administration official cast doubt on that claim, saying that while the Huthis said they used 10 drones, one Saudi oil facility was hit "at least 17 times," and another twice by "precision-guided munitions."

Additionally, neither the type of drone "nor the cruise missiles employed in the attack can reach the facilities from Yemen. It's not possible," the official said.

The Huthis are at war with Saudi-backed forces in Yemen, turning the impoverished nation into a proxy battlefield for bitter regional rivals Tehran and Riyadh.

The increasingly complex conflict dovetails with the Trump administration's attempt to curb Iranian power through a "maximum pressure" campaign of crippling economic sanctions.

Trump began that campaign after unilaterally pulling out of a 2015 international deal meant to reward Iran for allowing restrictions on its nuclear industry.

He says that Tehran is secretly cheating and trying to build nuclear weapons and must be stopped.

Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Washington's real goal was to bring his country to its knees.

"The policy of 'maximum pressure' against the Iranian nation is worthless and all Islamic Republic of Iran officials unanimously believe there will be no negotiations with the US at any level," he said in a televised address.

Khamenei also said that as long as sanctions are in place, direct talks are impossible, including a meeting at the UN.

'Support for war?'

Whether the new stage of the long-running US-Iranian standoff leads to conflict is the big unknown.

Saudi Arabia, which has bought huge quantities of US weaponry, is considered a strategic ally in the region, second to Israel, another bitter foe of Iran.

Trump called off a retaliatory US missile attack on Iran in June after the Iranians shot down a spy drone. He said he did not want to kill what generals told him could be up to 150 people.

Trump's administration is considering responses to the latest attack including a cyber attack or a physical strike on Iranian oil infrastructure or its Revolutionary Guards, NBC News reported, citing unnamed US officials.

Republican Lindsey Graham&nbsp;a vital Trump ally in Congress struck a belligerent tone Tuesday, charging that "such a sophisticated attack could not have occurred without Iran's blessing and direct involvement."

"This is literally an act of war," Graham said.

'Oil market nervous'

The strikes hit Abqaiq, the world's largest oil processing facility, and the Khurais oil field in eastern Saudi Arabia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-falls-more-than-1-per-cent-as-market-awaits-response-to-saudi-oil-attacks-250122">Oil prices</a>&nbsp;receded more than five per cent on Tuesday, reversing some of the previous day's gains as analysts said they were expecting Saudi output to recover sooner than expected.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo departed for Saudi Arabia Tuesday to discuss possible retaliation after Washington said it had proof that attacks on Saudi oil installations originated in Iran.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo departed for Saudi Arabia Tuesday to discuss possible retaliation after Washington said it had proof that attacks on Saudi oil installations originated in Iran. Vice President Mike Pence announced that Pompeo was on his way to the kingdom to "discuss our response." "As the president said, we don't want war with anybody but the United States is prepared," Pence said in a speech in Washington. "We're locked and loaded and we're ready to defend our interests and allies in the region, make no mistake about it," he said, echoing President Donald Trump's words on Sunday. A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP that the Trump administration has concluded that last weekend's attack involved cruise missiles from Iran and that evidence would be presented at the UN General Assembly next week. The apparent hardening of the US position came as Iran's supreme leader ruled out negotiations with Washington "at any level." This appeared to nix remaining hopes for a dramatic meeting between Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani at the United Nations next week. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One over California, Trump said he too had cooled on what had always seemed to be a diplomatic longshot. "I never rule anything out, but I prefer not meeting him," Trump said. 'It's not possible' Yemen's Iranian-backed Huthi rebels claimed responsibility for Saturday's oil installation attacks, which halved output from the petro-state, a close ally of Washington. But a senior US administration official cast doubt on that claim, saying that while the Huthis said they used 10 drones, one Saudi oil facility was hit "at least 17 times," and another twice by "precision-guided munitions." Additionally, neither the type of drone "nor the cruise missiles employed in the attack can reach the facilities from Yemen. It's not possible," the official said. The Huthis are at war with Saudi-backed forces in Yemen, turning the impoverished nation into a proxy battlefield for bitter regional rivals Tehran and Riyadh. The increasingly complex conflict dovetails with the Trump administration's attempt to curb Iranian power through a "maximum pressure" campaign of crippling economic sanctions. Trump began that campaign after unilaterally pulling out of a 2015 international deal meant to reward Iran for allowing restrictions on its nuclear industry. He says that Tehran is secretly cheating and trying to build nuclear weapons and must be stopped. Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Washington's real goal was to bring his country to its knees. "The policy of 'maximum pressure' against the Iranian nation is worthless and all Islamic Republic of Iran officials unanimously believe there will be no negotiations with the US at any level," he said in a televised address. Khamenei also said that as long as sanctions are in place, direct talks are impossible, including a meeting at the UN. 'Support for war?' Whether the new stage of the long-running US-Iranian standoff leads to conflict is the big unknown. Saudi Arabia, which has bought huge quantities of US weaponry, is considered a strategic ally in the region, second to Israel, another bitter foe of Iran. Trump called off a retaliatory US missile attack on Iran in June after the Iranians shot down a spy drone. He said he did not want to kill what generals told him could be up to 150 people. Trump's administration is considering responses to the latest attack including a cyber attack or a physical strike on Iranian oil infrastructure or its Revolutionary Guards, NBC News reported, citing unnamed US officials. Republican Lindsey Graham a vital Trump ally in Congress struck a belligerent tone Tuesday, charging that "such a sophisticated attack could not have occurred without Iran's blessing and direct involvement." "This is literally an act of war," Graham said. 'Oil market nervous' The strikes hit Abqaiq, the world's largest oil processing facility, and the Khurais oil field in eastern Saudi Arabia. Oil prices receded more than five per cent on Tuesday, reversing some of the previous day's gains as analysts said they were expecting Saudi output to recover sooner than expected.

Mike Pompeo heads to Saudi Arabia after US blames Iran

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday predicted that isolated places over Madhya Maharashtra, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are likely to witness heavy rainfall today.

The weather forecasting agency also predicted that isolated places over Vidarbha, Konkan, Goa, Telangana, Interior Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are expected to receive heavy downpour throughout the day.

Thunderstorm accompanied with squall (wind speed 50-60 kmph) very likely to occur at isolated places over Andaman and Nicobar Islands; with lightning at isolated places over Odisha.

Strong winds, speed reaching 40-50 kmph, are likely to prevail over western parts of west-central and southwest Arabian Sea, Gulf of Mannar and adjoining Tamil Nadu coast.

Squally weather conditions are likely to prevail over south Andhra Pradeshnorth Tamil Nadu coasts and the Andaman Sea.

The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday predicted that isolated places over Madhya Maharashtra, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are likely to witness heavy rainfall today.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday predicted that isolated places over Madhya Maharashtra, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are likely to witness heavy rainfall today. The weather forecasting agency also predicted that isolated places over Vidarbha, Konkan, Goa, Telangana, Interior Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are expected to receive heavy downpour throughout the day. Thunderstorm accompanied with squall (wind speed 50-60 kmph) very likely to occur at isolated places over Andaman and Nicobar Islands; with lightning at isolated places over Odisha. Strong winds, speed reaching 40-50 kmph, are likely to prevail over western parts of west-central and southwest Arabian Sea, Gulf of Mannar and adjoining Tamil Nadu coast. Squally weather conditions are likely to prevail over south Andhra Pradeshnorth Tamil Nadu coasts and the Andaman Sea. The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

India Meteorological Department issues heavy rainfall alert for Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh

Asian equities were mixed Wednesday, with attention turning to the Federal Reserve's key policy decision later in the day, while investors remain on alert for developments in the Middle East after the attack on Saudi oil facilities rocked markets.

News that Riyadh will get its two major installations back online earlier than expected sent crude prices tumbling Tuesday, and they fell further in Asia, though analysts said there was nervousness on trading floors about oil security in the future.

With fears of military retaliation against Iran -- who are accused of being behind the strikes -- low for now, focus is now on the Fed, which is expected to cut interest rates while its post-meeting statement will be closely followed for clues about future plans.

Global markets have spent most of this month rising on bets that central banks, led by the Fed, will move to a softer monetary policy to offset a slowdown in most economies exacerbated by the China-US trade war.

"A rate cut of 25 basis points is universally regarded as a done deal by global markets," said OANDA senior market analyst Jeffrey Halley.

"What will be closely watched is the press conference 30 minutes later, where we will gain more clarity as to whether the Fed has moved to an explicit easing bias.

"The likelihood of a shift from neutral to easing will be high as the (policy board) will not be able to ignore the storm cloud around the rest of the world that must eventually start raining on the United States."

Oxford Economics estimates the Fed will cut three more times this year, which would erase all its 2018 rate hikes.

The Fed has been forced to pump more than $100 billion into US financial markets owing to a tightening of liquidity that had seen short-term lending rates spike for companies.

Eyes on Pompeo

Equity traders shifted cautiously with Asian markets struggling for traction.

Hong Kong edged up 0.1 per cent after two days of steep losses that have been made worse by worries about long-running protests in the city. Shanghai was 0.4 per cent higher and Tokyo ended the morning 0.1 per cent higher.

Seoul added 0.4 percent and Taipei rose 0.3 percent but Sydney slipped 0.2 percent and Singapore fell 0.1 per cent, while Wellington and Manila were also down.

Dealers are being given some optimism by the fact the US and China are about to restart trade negotiations next month, with a delegation from Beijing reportedly visiting Washington this week for preparatory talks.

However, there are fresh worries about the impact on the already stuttering world economy from the Saudi oil attacks on Saturday.

While the resumption of output from the world's biggest exporter provided some much-needed relief, observers said long-term energy security is now a concern.

"Restoring production may placate global investors' immediate economic concerns, but that's only half the problem as the attacks exposed some significant vulnerabilities," said Stephen Innes at AxiTrader.

"None more so than just how inadequately prepared the markets are for disruptions of this magnitude which suggest that the supply risk premium could stick around well after production is restored."

Eyes are on US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who departed for Saudi Arabia Tuesday to discuss possible retaliation, while Vice President Mike Pence said: "As the president said, we don't want war with anybody but the United States is prepared."

A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP the White House has concluded the attack -- claimed by Huthi rebels in Yemen -- involved cruise missiles from Iran and that evidence would be presented at the UN General Assembly next week.

Asian equities were mixed Wednesday, with attention turning to the Federal Reserve's key policy decision later in the day, while investors remain on alert for developments in the Middle East after the attack on Saudi oil facilities rocked markets.

Asian equities were mixed Wednesday, with attention turning to the Federal Reserve's key policy decision later in the day, while investors remain on alert for developments in the Middle East after the attack on Saudi oil facilities rocked markets. News that Riyadh will get its two major installations back online earlier than expected sent crude prices tumbling Tuesday, and they fell further in Asia, though analysts said there was nervousness on trading floors about oil security in the future. With fears of military retaliation against Iran -- who are accused of being behind the strikes -- low for now, focus is now on the Fed, which is expected to cut interest rates while its post-meeting statement will be closely followed for clues about future plans. Global markets have spent most of this month rising on bets that central banks, led by the Fed, will move to a softer monetary policy to offset a slowdown in most economies exacerbated by the China-US trade war. "A rate cut of 25 basis points is universally regarded as a done deal by global markets," said OANDA senior market analyst Jeffrey Halley. "What will be closely watched is the press conference 30 minutes later, where we will gain more clarity as to whether the Fed has moved to an explicit easing bias. "The likelihood of a shift from neutral to easing will be high as the (policy board) will not be able to ignore the storm cloud around the rest of the world that must eventually start raining on the United States." Oxford Economics estimates the Fed will cut three more times this year, which would erase all its 2018 rate hikes. The Fed has been forced to pump more than $100 billion into US financial markets owing to a tightening of liquidity that had seen short-term lending rates spike for companies. Eyes on Pompeo Equity traders shifted cautiously with Asian markets struggling for traction. Hong Kong edged up 0.1 per cent after two days of steep losses that have been made worse by worries about long-running protests in the city. Shanghai was 0.4 per cent higher and Tokyo ended the morning 0.1 per cent higher. Seoul added 0.4 percent and Taipei rose 0.3 percent but Sydney slipped 0.2 percent and Singapore fell 0.1 per cent, while Wellington and Manila were also down. Dealers are being given some optimism by the fact the US and China are about to restart trade negotiations next month, with a delegation from Beijing reportedly visiting Washington this week for preparatory talks. However, there are fresh worries about the impact on the already stuttering world economy from the Saudi oil attacks on Saturday. While the resumption of output from the world's biggest exporter provided some much-needed relief, observers said long-term energy security is now a concern. "Restoring production may placate global investors' immediate economic concerns, but that's only half the problem as the attacks exposed some significant vulnerabilities," said Stephen Innes at AxiTrader. "None more so than just how inadequately prepared the markets are for disruptions of this magnitude which suggest that the supply risk premium could stick around well after production is restored." Eyes are on US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who departed for Saudi Arabia Tuesday to discuss possible retaliation, while Vice President Mike Pence said: "As the president said, we don't want war with anybody but the United States is prepared." A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP the White House has concluded the attack -- claimed by Huthi rebels in Yemen -- involved cruise missiles from Iran and that evidence would be presented at the UN General Assembly next week.

Asian markets mixed ahead of key Fed meeting, oil drops again

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-appears-from-exit-polls-that-prime-minister-netanyahu-lost-israels-opposition-leader-250285">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> lashed out at Facebook on Tuesday after the social network blocked a "chatbot" from his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-israel-decides-netanyahus-fate-in-crucial-elections-250281">right-wing Likud party</a>'s account for violating election day rules.

The function, a type of automated software that simulates a conversation with a user, was running again within a few hours.

"They took a 100 kg hammer and brought it down on a fly, because it is a Likud fly," Netanyahu said in a video posted on social media. "They shut down our means of communication with our voters."

Israel's Central Elections Committee said the chatbot had been used to publish poll data in contravention of regulations.

Netanyahu appeared to play down the violation, saying: "Someone published a small poll on Facebook."

The problematic posts were apparently taken down and no longer appeared on his Facebook page.

Netanyahu, who is battling for his political career, has been trying to mobilise his base by warning them of low supporter turnout.

Israel Elects: Exit polls predict electoral stalemate

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-elects-exit-polls-predict-electoral-stalemate-250295/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Asked about its intervention on Netanyahu's account, Facebook said in a statement it works with "elections commissions around the world to help protect the integrity of elections".

"Our policies clearly state developers are required to comply with all applicable laws in the country where their app is available. We have restricted this bot for violating local law until the polling stations are closed tonight," it said.

Clearing the way for Facebook to reinstate the chatbot, Judge Hanan Melcer, chairman of the Israeli Central Elections Committee, said he received an assurance from Likud that no further poll data would be published on it.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lashed out at Facebook on Tuesday after the social network blocked a "chatbot" from his right-wing Likud party's account for violating election day rules.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lashed out at Facebook on Tuesday after the social network blocked a "chatbot" from his right-wing Likud party's account for violating election day rules. The function, a type of automated software that simulates a conversation with a user, was running again within a few hours. "They took a 100 kg hammer and brought it down on a fly, because it is a Likud fly," Netanyahu said in a video posted on social media. "They shut down our means of communication with our voters." Israel's Central Elections Committee said the chatbot had been used to publish poll data in contravention of regulations. Netanyahu appeared to play down the violation, saying: "Someone published a small poll on Facebook." The problematic posts were apparently taken down and no longer appeared on his Facebook page. Netanyahu, who is battling for his political career, has been trying to mobilise his base by warning them of low supporter turnout. Israel Elects: Exit polls predict electoral stalemate Asked about its intervention on Netanyahu's account, Facebook said in a statement it works with "elections commissions around the world to help protect the integrity of elections". "Our policies clearly state developers are required to comply with all applicable laws in the country where their app is available. We have restricted this bot for violating local law until the polling stations are closed tonight," it said. Clearing the way for Facebook to reinstate the chatbot, Judge Hanan Melcer, chairman of the Israeli Central Elections Committee, said he received an assurance from Likud that no further poll data would be published on it.

Facebook briefly blocks Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu chatbot on election day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-views-are-heard-much-more-clearly-today-s-jaishankar-on-100-days-of-mea-250207">External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar</a> on Tuesday said the government was confident of meeting Kartarpur corridor deadline and the work on the same is moving in the right direction.

"I think most of the issues related to Kartarpur Sahib have been resolved. I think they are moving in the right direction and there is an expectation, there is a deadline, which we have to meet so we are confident of doing that," the EAM said during a briefing on the 100-day achievements of the MEA under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second term in power.

When asked about the possibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the UNGA, the EAM hinted at no such meeting taking place in the US.

"Regarding UNGA, whether there will be a meeting between the leaders of India and Pakistan, in principle I don't comment on what can happen. However just look at the climate of relations right now, I think that itself should give you an answer", Jaishankar said while replying to a question.

Earlier on Monday, Pakistan's Project Director on the corridor, Atif Majeed had said that Pakistan will inaugurate Kartarpur corridor on November 9, just two days before the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Earlier that day, a team of Union Home Ministry officials inspected the ongoing construction work for Kartarpur corridor on the Indian side at Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur in the Indian state of Punjab.

India has asked Pakistan to "reconsider" its decision to charge $20 as service charge from pilgrims to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan.

The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday said the government was confident of meeting Kartarpur corridor deadline and the work on the same is moving in the right direction.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday said the government was confident of meeting Kartarpur corridor deadline and the work on the same is moving in the right direction. "I think most of the issues related to Kartarpur Sahib have been resolved. I think they are moving in the right direction and there is an expectation, there is a deadline, which we have to meet so we are confident of doing that," the EAM said during a briefing on the 100-day achievements of the MEA under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second term in power. When asked about the possibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the UNGA, the EAM hinted at no such meeting taking place in the US. "Regarding UNGA, whether there will be a meeting between the leaders of India and Pakistan, in principle I don't comment on what can happen. However just look at the climate of relations right now, I think that itself should give you an answer", Jaishankar said while replying to a question. Earlier on Monday, Pakistan's Project Director on the corridor, Atif Majeed had said that Pakistan will inaugurate Kartarpur corridor on November 9, just two days before the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. Earlier that day, a team of Union Home Ministry officials inspected the ongoing construction work for Kartarpur corridor on the Indian side at Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur in the Indian state of Punjab. India has asked Pakistan to "reconsider" its decision to charge $20 as service charge from pilgrims to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan. The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev.

Work moving in right direction, confident of meeting deadline: Jaishankar on Kartarpur corridor

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