According to reports, Israeli embassies have been put on alert over Iran's retaliation threats after its top nuclear scientist Mohsen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-accuses-mercenary-israel-of-scientist-assassination-346022">Fakhrizadeh</a> was assassinated on Friday.

Watch:

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Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-calls-for-punishing-those-behind-scientists-killing-346076">Khamenei</a> on Saturday had urged "punishing" those who were behind Mohsen Fakhrizadeh's killing. Iran President Rouhani had earlier accused Israel of acting as a "mercenary" for the US by carrying out the killing of its nuclear scientist.

"The nation of Iran is smarter than to fall in the trap of the conspiracy set by the Zionists. They are thinking of creating chaos, but they should know that we have read their hands and they will not succeed," Rouhani said as he vowed to not to "leave this criminal act unanswered" and asserted that Iran will retaliate "in due time."

Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, 59, was shot by assailants in his car near Absard city in Tehran and died in hospital as doctors failed to revive him.&nbsp;

Soon after the assassination, Iran foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had said that there were "serious indications of an Israeli role", while adding, "this cowardice with serious indications of Israeli role shows desperate warmongering of perpetrators."

The United States had issued sanctions against Fakhrizadeh in 2008 for "activities and transactions that contributed to the development of Iran's nuclear programme".

Iran's defence minister Amir Hatami said Fakhrizadeh's assassination and the killing of Iran's top general Qasem Soleimani were "completely related".

Soleimani, who headed the Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force was killed in an American airstrike near Baghdad airport in January this year.

Iran's armed forces chief of staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri called the assassination a "a bitter and heavy blow to the country's defence system" and warned of "severe revenge".

According to reports, Israeli embassies have been put on alert over Iran's retaliation threats after its top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh was assassinated on Friday.

According to reports, Israeli embassies have been put on alert over Iran's retaliation threats after its top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh was assassinated on Friday. Watch: Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday had urged "punishing" those who were behind Mohsen Fakhrizadeh's killing. Iran President Rouhani had earlier accused Israel of acting as a "mercenary" for the US by carrying out the killing of its nuclear scientist. "The nation of Iran is smarter than to fall in the trap of the conspiracy set by the Zionists. They are thinking of creating chaos, but they should know that we have read their hands and they will not succeed," Rouhani said as he vowed to not to "leave this criminal act unanswered" and asserted that Iran will retaliate "in due time." Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, 59, was shot by assailants in his car near Absard city in Tehran and died in hospital as doctors failed to revive him. Soon after the assassination, Iran foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had said that there were "serious indications of an Israeli role", while adding, "this cowardice with serious indications of Israeli role shows desperate warmongering of perpetrators." The United States had issued sanctions against Fakhrizadeh in 2008 for "activities and transactions that contributed to the development of Iran's nuclear programme". Iran's defence minister Amir Hatami said Fakhrizadeh's assassination and the killing of Iran's top general Qasem Soleimani were "completely related". Soleimani, who headed the Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force was killed in an American airstrike near Baghdad airport in January this year. Iran's armed forces chief of staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri called the assassination a "a bitter and heavy blow to the country's defence system" and warned of "severe revenge".

Israeli embassies on alert over Iran's retaliation threats after Fakhrizadeh's assassination: Report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopian-pm-tells-african-envoys-he-will-protect-civilians-in-tigray-345885">Ethiopian</a> government forces on Saturday began heavy shelling in Tigray in a bid to capture regional capital Mekelle as rebel Tigray People's Liberation Front(TLF)forces dug in for a fight.

Watch:

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Reports said large explosions were heard in the north of the city in the Hamidai area. The Ethiopian PM's office has asserted that its forces will not "bombard" civilian areas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rockets-target-eritrea-as-ethiopia-leader-resists-calls-for-dialogue-345982">Also Read:&nbsp;Rockets target Eritrea as Ethiopia leader resists calls for dialogue</a>

"The safety of Ethiopians in Mekelle and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-says-ethiopia-fighting-destabilising-region-urges-ceasefire-345230">Tigray</a> region continues as a priority for the federal government," the government spokesman said. The Abiy government had given the TPLF forces an ultimatum until last Sunday to lay down arms or face an assault on Mekelle.

The Ethiopian army has been fighting the TLP in Tigray which borders Eritrea and Sudan since November 4.

PM Abiy has accused the rebel forces of attacking troops at a base in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopias-21st-mechanised-division-completely-destroyed-claim-tigray-forces-345067">Tigray</a> even as the TLP said it was a pre-emptive strike by the federal troops.

The conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis with at least 43,000 refugees fleeing to Sudan. The International Crisis Group has said the conflict has left thousands dead "including many civilians as well as security forces".

Abiy who won Nobel Peace Prize last year had said earlier in the week that a "third and final phase" in his campaign against leaders of TPLF had begun even as leaders worldwide including the Pope expressed concern over the intensifying fighting in in the region.

However, PM Abiy Ahmed has refused to negotiate with the TPLF and dismissed calls for dialogue as "interference" in Ethiopia's internal affairs.

Ethiopian government forces on Saturday began heavy shelling in Tigray in a bid to capture regional capital Mekelle as rebel Tigray People's Liberation Front(TLF)forces dug in for a fight.

Ethiopian government forces on Saturday began heavy shelling in Tigray in a bid to capture regional capital Mekelle as rebel Tigray People's Liberation Front(TLF)forces dug in for a fight. Watch: Reports said large explosions were heard in the north of the city in the Hamidai area. The Ethiopian PM's office has asserted that its forces will not "bombard" civilian areas. Also Read: Rockets target Eritrea as Ethiopia leader resists calls for dialogue "The safety of Ethiopians in Mekelle and Tigray region continues as a priority for the federal government," the government spokesman said. The Abiy government had given the TPLF forces an ultimatum until last Sunday to lay down arms or face an assault on Mekelle. The Ethiopian army has been fighting the TLP in Tigray which borders Eritrea and Sudan since November 4. PM Abiy has accused the rebel forces of attacking troops at a base in Tigray even as the TLP said it was a pre-emptive strike by the federal troops. The conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis with at least 43,000 refugees fleeing to Sudan. The International Crisis Group has said the conflict has left thousands dead "including many civilians as well as security forces". Abiy who won Nobel Peace Prize last year had said earlier in the week that a "third and final phase" in his campaign against leaders of TPLF had begun even as leaders worldwide including the Pope expressed concern over the intensifying fighting in in the region. However, PM Abiy Ahmed has refused to negotiate with the TPLF and dismissed calls for dialogue as "interference" in Ethiopia's internal affairs.

Ethiopian forces begin offensive on Tigray with heavy shelling

Newly appointed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-foreign-minister-visits-japan-to-seek-cooperation-amid-regional-tensions-345113">Japanese </a>Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday reviewed the country's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) troops in Iruma Air Base in Saitama prefecture.

Watch:

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The Japanese prime minister in his address said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-japan-australia-align-to-counter-chinas-growing-regional-influence-344175">defence</a> forces should develop capabilities to tackle new battlefields in outer space, cyberspace and electromagnetic fields.

"It is getting more difficult for each organisation (Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces) to deal with separately," PM Suga said, adding, "It is important that we break barriers between ground, maritime and air self-Defense forces and tackle security challenges together."

Japan has been locked in a cold war with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-indian-australian-japanese-naval-forces-have-proved-their-ability-nimitz-commander-on-malabar-naval-exercise-344566">China</a> over the East China Sea even as the two countries have begun engaging in high-level talks. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi had recently visited Japan amid Beijing's growing assertiveness in the region.&nbsp;

Wang met PM Suga during his two-day visit to Tokyo as the foreign minister said Chinese President Xi Jinping wants to build "good working relations" with his Japanese counterpart. Wang asserted that his country would like to make the East China Sea "the sea of peace" in cooperation with Japan.

Japanese media had earlier reported it is ready to sign a defence pact with Australia amid growing threat from China's military power in the region.&nbsp;

Suga had visited Vietnam earlier as part of his first overseas trip since taking office last month and agreed to step up security and defence cooperation with an agreement in principle for Japan to export defence equipment and technology to Vietnam as it seeks to keep China influence in the South China Sea under control.

"The two sides agreed to tighten cooperation before regional challenges including the issue of the South China Sea," said Suga during his visit to Vietnam.

Newly appointed Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday reviewed the country's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) troops in Iruma Air Base in Saitama prefecture.

Newly appointed Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday reviewed the country's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) troops in Iruma Air Base in Saitama prefecture. Watch: The Japanese prime minister in his address said that the defence forces should develop capabilities to tackle new battlefields in outer space, cyberspace and electromagnetic fields. "It is getting more difficult for each organisation (Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces) to deal with separately," PM Suga said, adding, "It is important that we break barriers between ground, maritime and air self-Defense forces and tackle security challenges together." Japan has been locked in a cold war with China over the East China Sea even as the two countries have begun engaging in high-level talks. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi had recently visited Japan amid Beijing's growing assertiveness in the region. Wang met PM Suga during his two-day visit to Tokyo as the foreign minister said Chinese President Xi Jinping wants to build "good working relations" with his Japanese counterpart. Wang asserted that his country would like to make the East China Sea "the sea of peace" in cooperation with Japan. Japanese media had earlier reported it is ready to sign a defence pact with Australia amid growing threat from China's military power in the region. Suga had visited Vietnam earlier as part of his first overseas trip since taking office last month and agreed to step up security and defence cooperation with an agreement in principle for Japan to export defence equipment and technology to Vietnam as it seeks to keep China influence in the South China Sea under control. "The two sides agreed to tighten cooperation before regional challenges including the issue of the South China Sea," said Suga during his visit to Vietnam.

Japan PM Suga reviews air defence troops, calls joint effort to develop new capabilities

As Europe grapples with the virus, the death toll due to <a href="Chinese scientists now claim coronavirus originated in India in summer 2019">virus</a> crossed 400,000 on Saturday as German minister Peter Altmaier said the partial lockdown in the country could extend till early spring next year.

Watch:

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Italy, France, Spain and the UK have been the worst-hit nations in Europe even as European nations mull reopening ahead of Christmas holidays with several restrictions.&nbsp;

The Belgium government said it will reopen shops from December 1 including Luxembourg and the Netherlands, however, it would be allowed under strict lockdown measures. &nbsp;France is also set to allow non-essential retailers to reopen.

Belgium has&nbsp;nearly 570,000 infection cases with 1,034 patients in intensive care. There have been 16,300 fatalities due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-frozen-food-clampdown-china-questions-theory-of-coronavirus-outbreak-in-wuhan-346003">virus</a> in Belgium with 142 deaths recorded on Thursday.

Germany which was earlier successful in combating the virus has been hit by a second wave with the country recording over 22,000 new daily cases on Friday.

Germany now has over 1 million infected cases with the number of patients in intensive care soaring from nearly 360 in October to over 3,500 last week.&nbsp;

England meanwhile will enforce tier 3 lockdown measures which is the strictest measure with Britain accounting for almost two-thirds of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-holds-key-to-global-fight-against-coronavirus-pandemic-345961">COVID-19</a> fatalities in Europe with 57,551 deaths.

After the lockdown ends in England on December 2 at least 23 million people will be on "very high" alert level in England including Leeds, Manchester, Bristol and Birmingham.

London has been spared strict restrictions with the capital set to enter tier 2 status post-December 2 allowing restaurants and leisure facilities to reopen.

"I really wish it were otherwise but if we're going to keep schools open as we must, then our options in bearing down on the disease are necessarily limited," PM Boris Johnson said. Britain recorded 498 deaths on Thursday and nearly has nearly 1.6 million infection cases with testing and contact tracing high on the government's agenda.

As Europe grapples with the virus, the death toll due to virus crossed 400,000 on Saturday as German minister Peter Altmaier said the partial lockdown in the country could extend till early spring next year.

As Europe grapples with the virus, the death toll due to virus crossed 400,000 on Saturday as German minister Peter Altmaier said the partial lockdown in the country could extend till early spring next year. Watch: Italy, France, Spain and the UK have been the worst-hit nations in Europe even as European nations mull reopening ahead of Christmas holidays with several restrictions. The Belgium government said it will reopen shops from December 1 including Luxembourg and the Netherlands, however, it would be allowed under strict lockdown measures. France is also set to allow non-essential retailers to reopen. Belgium has nearly 570,000 infection cases with 1,034 patients in intensive care. There have been 16,300 fatalities due to the virus in Belgium with 142 deaths recorded on Thursday. Germany which was earlier successful in combating the virus has been hit by a second wave with the country recording over 22,000 new daily cases on Friday. Germany now has over 1 million infected cases with the number of patients in intensive care soaring from nearly 360 in October to over 3,500 last week. England meanwhile will enforce tier 3 lockdown measures which is the strictest measure with Britain accounting for almost two-thirds of COVID-19 fatalities in Europe with 57,551 deaths. After the lockdown ends in England on December 2 at least 23 million people will be on "very high" alert level in England including Leeds, Manchester, Bristol and Birmingham. London has been spared strict restrictions with the capital set to enter tier 2 status post-December 2 allowing restaurants and leisure facilities to reopen. "I really wish it were otherwise but if we're going to keep schools open as we must, then our options in bearing down on the disease are necessarily limited," PM Boris Johnson said. Britain recorded 498 deaths on Thursday and nearly has nearly 1.6 million infection cases with testing and contact tracing high on the government's agenda.

Coronavirus death toll in Europe crosses 400,000 as Germany mulls extending partial lockdown till early spring

Massive crowds gathered to pay their last respects to football legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ciao-diego-argentina-and-napoli-fans-mourn-maradonas-death-345538">Maradona</a> as authorities announced the Argentine star would be buried on the outskirts of Buenos Aires on Thursday.

Watch:

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Fans confronted riot police as they tried&nbsp;to reach the Casa Rosada presidential palace to pay their final tribute to the late Argentine football star in Buenos Aires.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/it-is-very-special-place-diego-maradonas-love-for-kolkata-345485">In Pics:&nbsp;Diego Maradona's love for Kolkata</a>

Maradona died of a heart attack on Wednesday while recovering from brain surgery at the age of 60. He&nbsp;will be laid to rest at&nbsp;the Jardin de Paz cemetery&nbsp;where his parents were also buried.

Tens of thousands of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-argentina-maradonas-death-sets-off-a-vivid-display-of-public-grief-345623">Argentinians</a> queued to say their&nbsp;final farewell to the&nbsp;football icon in an outpouring of love before the funeral. There was heartbreak and tears as fans wept with some wearing the World Cup winner's number 10 Argentina jersey as they gathered at the Casa Rosada presidential palace in Buenos Aires to see his coffin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-will-be-no-one-like-diego-maradona-bengaluru-fc-coach-carles-cuadrat-to-wion-345643">Maradona</a> who won the World Cup for Argentina in 1986 in Mexico as his "hand of God" goal against England marked him out as controversial figure but his feats on the football field won him fans across the world.

The Argentinian star took his country into the World Cup finals in Italy in 1990 where it lost to Germany by a solitary goal. Maradona was ejected from the 1994 World Cup in the United States after he failed a doping test.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-maradona-the-most-human-of-immortals-345619">Maradona</a> battled health issues in the latter half of his life as he was admitted to hospital three times in the last 20 years but seemed to emerge out of the abyss, but on Wednesday the star was declared dead as a nation went into mourning with millions heartbroken across the world.

Argentina's current superstar Lionel Messi led the tributes as he said: "He has left us but he will never leave us because Diego is eternal."

Massive crowds gathered to pay their last respects to football legend Maradona as authorities announced the Argentine star would be buried on the outskirts of Buenos Aires on Thursday.

Massive crowds gathered to pay their last respects to football legend Maradona as authorities announced the Argentine star would be buried on the outskirts of Buenos Aires on Thursday. Watch: Fans confronted riot police as they tried to reach the Casa Rosada presidential palace to pay their final tribute to the late Argentine football star in Buenos Aires. In Pics: Diego Maradona's love for Kolkata Maradona died of a heart attack on Wednesday while recovering from brain surgery at the age of 60. He will be laid to rest at the Jardin de Paz cemetery where his parents were also buried. Tens of thousands of Argentinians queued to say their final farewell to the football icon in an outpouring of love before the funeral. There was heartbreak and tears as fans wept with some wearing the World Cup winner's number 10 Argentina jersey as they gathered at the Casa Rosada presidential palace in Buenos Aires to see his coffin. Maradona who won the World Cup for Argentina in 1986 in Mexico as his "hand of God" goal against England marked him out as controversial figure but his feats on the football field won him fans across the world. The Argentinian star took his country into the World Cup finals in Italy in 1990 where it lost to Germany by a solitary goal. Maradona was ejected from the 1994 World Cup in the United States after he failed a doping test. Maradona battled health issues in the latter half of his life as he was admitted to hospital three times in the last 20 years but seemed to emerge out of the abyss, but on Wednesday the star was declared dead as a nation went into mourning with millions heartbroken across the world. Argentina's current superstar Lionel Messi led the tributes as he said: "He has left us but he will never leave us because Diego is eternal."

Fans confront riot police as millions gather to pay last respects to Maradona

Iran's&nbsp;defence ministry said today&nbsp;top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh has been assassinated.

"Unfortunately, the medical team did not succeed in reviving (Fakhrizadeh), and a few minutes ago, this manager and scientist achieved the high status of martyrdom after years of effort and struggle," Iran's armed forces said in a statement.

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Terrorists murdered an eminent Iranian scientist today. This cowardice—with serious indications of Israeli role—shows desperate warmongering of perpetrators 
 
Iran calls on int'l community—and especially EU—to end their shameful double standards &amp; condemn this act of state terror.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1332345633425022976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Fakhrizadeh's bodyguard was reportedly killed. The high-level nuclear scientist is referred to as "Iran’s Robert Oppenheimer" and is known as the "father" of Iran's nuclear programme.

According to reports,&nbsp;Fakhrizadeh's&nbsp;assassination&nbsp;took place in Absard in Tehran's Damavand county.&nbsp;

Terrorists reportedly bombed a car before opening fire at Fakhrizadeh's car.&nbsp;Iranian media reported Fakhrizadeh died of injuries in hospital after armed assassins fired at his car.

Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javed Zarif condemned the nuclear scientist's assassination as a "terrorist act".

Iran's defence ministry said today top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh has been assassinated. "Unfortunately, the medical team did not succeed in reviving (Fakhrizadeh), and a few minutes ago, this manager and scientist achieved the high status of martyrdom after years of effort and struggle," Iran's armed forces said in a statement.

Iran's defence ministry said today top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh has been assassinated. "Unfortunately, the medical team did not succeed in reviving (Fakhrizadeh), and a few minutes ago, this manager and scientist achieved the high status of martyrdom after years of effort and struggle," Iran's armed forces said in a statement. Terrorists murdered an eminent Iranian scientist today. This cowardice—with serious indications of Israeli role—shows desperate warmongering of perpetrators Iran calls on int'l community—and especially EU—to end their shameful double standards & condemn this act of state terror. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) November 27, 2020 × Fakhrizadeh's bodyguard was reportedly killed. The high-level nuclear scientist is referred to as "Iran’s Robert Oppenheimer" and is known as the "father" of Iran's nuclear programme. According to reports, Fakhrizadeh's assassination took place in Absard in Tehran's Damavand county. Terrorists reportedly bombed a car before opening fire at Fakhrizadeh's car. Iranian media reported Fakhrizadeh died of injuries in hospital after armed assassins fired at his car. Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javed Zarif condemned the nuclear scientist's assassination as a "terrorist act".

Iran's top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh assassinated

According to the government, the Indian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-impact-imf-projects-indias-gdp-to-contract-103-in-2020-334996">economy</a> contracted 7.5 per cent in the July-September quarter which is the most among major economies as the coronavirus pandemic continues to ravage jobs and growth worldwide.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-total-caseload-jumps-to-93-million-death-toll-stands-at-135715-345714">Also Read:&nbsp;Coronavirus in India: Total caseload jumps to 9.3 million</a>

The economy contracted 23.9 per cent in the April to June quarter when the lockdown was underway due to the coronavirus pandemic.

India's coronavirus infection has risen&nbsp;to 9.27 million even as economy activity picked in the July-September period although some states have re-imposed curbs this week to fight a second wave of infections.

The two successive quarters of contraction mean India has now entered a recession as hospitality and construction experienced downward trends.

According to the government, the Indian economy contracted 7.5 per cent in the July-September quarter which is the most among major economies as the coronavirus pandemic continues to ravage jobs and growth worldwide.

According to the government, the Indian economy contracted 7.5 per cent in the July-September quarter which is the most among major economies as the coronavirus pandemic continues to ravage jobs and growth worldwide. Also Read: Coronavirus in India: Total caseload jumps to 9.3 million The economy contracted 23.9 per cent in the April to June quarter when the lockdown was underway due to the coronavirus pandemic. India's coronavirus infection has risen to 9.27 million even as economy activity picked in the July-September period although some states have re-imposed curbs this week to fight a second wave of infections. The two successive quarters of contraction mean India has now entered a recession as hospitality and construction experienced downward trends.

Pandemic effect: India's GDP contracts 7.5% in July-September quarter; shrinks 23.9% in April-June

Russian opposition leader Alexei <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/head-doctor-at-hospital-that-treated-navalny-promoted-341379">Navalny</a> who was poisoned in Russia in August addressed the European Parliament committee of foreign affairs on Friday and asserted that, "I'm definitely not the first one and unfortunately, I will not be the last one who poisoned to kill."

Watch:

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"It sounds radical, but especially from my own personal point of view. I think it's a very fine defining what they are. They are bunch of criminals temporarily to cover the power in our country," Navalny,44, told the Russian Parliament referring to the Putin regime.

"The main question we should ask ourselves why are people poisoning and the answer is very very simple money. So the European Union should target the money and Russian oligarchs, not just all oligarchs, but also new ones like these circle of Mr Putin," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-anti-corruption-foundation-office-raided-by-russian-police-341048">Navalny</a> told European parliamentarians.

Last week the German government had criticised Russia move to impose retaliatory sanctions on German and French officials over the poisoning of Navalny calling it "unjustified". EU had said that Navalny's poisoning could not have been carried out without complicity of Russia's security service.

Kremlin has denied allegations that it was behind Navalny's poisoning. The Russian opposition leader was treated in a Berlin's Charite hospital after being flown in from Russia where his condition was critical. Russian doctors had said that Navalny was suffering from metabolic issues and pancreatitis and wasn't poisoned.

Russian President Vladimir Putin had said earlier that he had personally authorised Navalny to travel to Germany for treatment. "As soon as the wife of this citizen appealed to me, straight away I told prosecutors to check the possibility of him going abroad for treatment," Putin said.

Russian foreign minister Lavrov had asserted that he had "reason to believe" that nerve agent entered Navalny's system while he was in Germany or during his stay at the Charite hospital. Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh had said the allegation that he was poisoned in Germany was "the most idiotic of them all".

Navalny had fallen ill on a flight from Tomsk to Moscow in August and was flown to Germany for treatment where doctors said he was poisoned with the Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok.

Navalny is currently in Germany for treatment but has vowed to return home after recovering fully.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny who was poisoned in Russia in August addressed the European Parliament committee of foreign affairs on Friday and asserted that, "I'm definitely not the first one and unfortunately, I will not be the last one who poisoned to kill.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny who was poisoned in Russia in August addressed the European Parliament committee of foreign affairs on Friday and asserted that, "I'm definitely not the first one and unfortunately, I will not be the last one who poisoned to kill." Watch: "It sounds radical, but especially from my own personal point of view. I think it's a very fine defining what they are. They are bunch of criminals temporarily to cover the power in our country," Navalny,44, told the Russian Parliament referring to the Putin regime. "The main question we should ask ourselves why are people poisoning and the answer is very very simple money. So the European Union should target the money and Russian oligarchs, not just all oligarchs, but also new ones like these circle of Mr Putin," Navalny told European parliamentarians. Last week the German government had criticised Russia move to impose retaliatory sanctions on German and French officials over the poisoning of Navalny calling it "unjustified". EU had said that Navalny's poisoning could not have been carried out without complicity of Russia's security service. Kremlin has denied allegations that it was behind Navalny's poisoning. The Russian opposition leader was treated in a Berlin's Charite hospital after being flown in from Russia where his condition was critical. Russian doctors had said that Navalny was suffering from metabolic issues and pancreatitis and wasn't poisoned. Russian President Vladimir Putin had said earlier that he had personally authorised Navalny to travel to Germany for treatment. "As soon as the wife of this citizen appealed to me, straight away I told prosecutors to check the possibility of him going abroad for treatment," Putin said. Russian foreign minister Lavrov had asserted that he had "reason to believe" that nerve agent entered Navalny's system while he was in Germany or during his stay at the Charite hospital. Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh had said the allegation that he was poisoned in Germany was "the most idiotic of them all". Navalny had fallen ill on a flight from Tomsk to Moscow in August and was flown to Germany for treatment where doctors said he was poisoned with the Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok. Navalny is currently in Germany for treatment but has vowed to return home after recovering fully.

Target oligarchs around Putin, Navalny to European Parliament

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-condemns-attacks-on-saudi-guest-237916">al-Aqsa</a> mosque in Jerusalem has become a point of contention for Jordan amid reports the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been manoeuvring for control of Islam's holiest site.

Jordan's fears were raised in August after the US, UAE, and Israel in a joint statement said: "All Muslims who come in peace may visit and pray at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fire-broke-out-in-al-aqsa-mosque-as-notre-dame-cathedral-burned-210982">al-Aqsa</a> Mosque, and Jerusalem’s other holy sites should remain open for peaceful worshippers of all faiths.”

The announcement of restoration of diplomatic ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates not only sent shockwaves in West Asia, the US, UAE, and Israel joint statement further antagonised Jordan.

Amman was further alarmed after a reported meeting between Israeli PM&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu and Saudi crown prince&nbsp;Mohammed bin Salman. Last month, a UAE delegation had visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque under the protection of Israeli forces, a move which was criticised by Palestinian PM Muhammad Shtayyeh.

Shtayyeh said: “Al-Aqsa Mosque shall be entered through the gate of its owners [Jordanian and Palestinian authorities], not through the gate of the Israeli occupation.”&nbsp;

Jordan has been the official custodian of Christian and Muslim holy places in Jerusalem since 1924 after Sharif Hussein who started the Arab revolt against the Ottoman Empire was acclaimed as the custodian of Jerusalem's holy sites.&nbsp;

Jordan remained the custodian of holy places in Jerusalem even after it gave up its claim over the occupied West Bank in 1988. Israel and Jordan later recognised Jordan's role as a religious custodian after concluding the Wadi Araba peace treaty in 1994.

Amid the developments, the Jordanian foreign ministry released a statement saying: "the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque and Haram al-Sharif with its 144 dunams (35.5 acres), is a mosque exclusively for Muslims, and they alone have the right to pray there".

"International law affirms that it is not permissible for occupying powers to change the status quo," Jordan said, referring to Israel. It further said that, "Israel, the occupying power in occupied East Jerusalem, must respect its obligations under international law and international humanitarian law, and respect the legal and historical status quo. Israel must also respect the sanctity of the mosque, the feelings of Muslims and Jordan's role in caring for the holy sites."

The al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem has become a point of contention for Jordan amid reports the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been manoeuvring for control of Islam's holiest site.

The al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem has become a point of contention for Jordan amid reports the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been manoeuvring for control of Islam's holiest site. Jordan's fears were raised in August after the US, UAE, and Israel in a joint statement said: "All Muslims who come in peace may visit and pray at the al-Aqsa Mosque, and Jerusalem’s other holy sites should remain open for peaceful worshippers of all faiths.” The announcement of restoration of diplomatic ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates not only sent shockwaves in West Asia, the US, UAE, and Israel joint statement further antagonised Jordan. Amman was further alarmed after a reported meeting between Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman. Last month, a UAE delegation had visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque under the protection of Israeli forces, a move which was criticised by Palestinian PM Muhammad Shtayyeh. Shtayyeh said: “Al-Aqsa Mosque shall be entered through the gate of its owners [Jordanian and Palestinian authorities], not through the gate of the Israeli occupation.” Jordan has been the official custodian of Christian and Muslim holy places in Jerusalem since 1924 after Sharif Hussein who started the Arab revolt against the Ottoman Empire was acclaimed as the custodian of Jerusalem's holy sites. Jordan remained the custodian of holy places in Jerusalem even after it gave up its claim over the occupied West Bank in 1988. Israel and Jordan later recognised Jordan's role as a religious custodian after concluding the Wadi Araba peace treaty in 1994. Amid the developments, the Jordanian foreign ministry released a statement saying: "the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque and Haram al-Sharif with its 144 dunams (35.5 acres), is a mosque exclusively for Muslims, and they alone have the right to pray there". "International law affirms that it is not permissible for occupying powers to change the status quo," Jordan said, referring to Israel. It further said that, "Israel, the occupying power in occupied East Jerusalem, must respect its obligations under international law and international humanitarian law, and respect the legal and historical status quo. Israel must also respect the sanctity of the mosque, the feelings of Muslims and Jordan's role in caring for the holy sites."

As Israel, Saudi Arabia cool tensions, Jordan's custodianship of al-Aqsa mosque under scrutiny

According to Iran's state media, authorities on Wednesday exchanged a jailed British-Australian academic, Kylie Moore-Gilbert, with three Iranians who were detained abroad.

Moore-Gilbert who was serving a 10-year sentence for espionage was swapped for an Iranian businessman and two Iranian citizens, Iran's TV channel reported.

Reports said the Iranians were detained for trying to circumvent US sanctions reimposed in 2018 after the Trump administration exited the nuclear deal.

Moore-Gilbert was a lecturer in Islamic Studies at the University of Melbourne and was reportedly detained last year.&nbsp;

However, according to British media reports, Moore-Gilbert was arrested at Tehran airport by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps(IRGC) in September 2018.

Moore-Gilbert stridently denied spying charges. Reports indicated that Moore-Gilbert was shifted to Iran's notorious Evin prison as Australian authorities began efforts to track her.

Iran has arrested several foreign nationals over spying charges including French-Iranian academic Fariba Adelkhah, who was detained in June last year and two Australians, travel bloggers Jolie King and Mark Firkin who were later released in October 2019 in a swap for Iranian student Reza Dehbashi.

According to Iran's state media, authorities on Wednesday exchanged a jailed British-Australian academic, Kylie Moore-Gilbert, with three Iranians who were detained abroad.

According to Iran's state media, authorities on Wednesday exchanged a jailed British-Australian academic, Kylie Moore-Gilbert, with three Iranians who were detained abroad. Moore-Gilbert who was serving a 10-year sentence for espionage was swapped for an Iranian businessman and two Iranian citizens, Iran's TV channel reported. Reports said the Iranians were detained for trying to circumvent US sanctions reimposed in 2018 after the Trump administration exited the nuclear deal. Moore-Gilbert was a lecturer in Islamic Studies at the University of Melbourne and was reportedly detained last year. However, according to British media reports, Moore-Gilbert was arrested at Tehran airport by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps(IRGC) in September 2018. Moore-Gilbert stridently denied spying charges. Reports indicated that Moore-Gilbert was shifted to Iran's notorious Evin prison as Australian authorities began efforts to track her. Iran has arrested several foreign nationals over spying charges including French-Iranian academic Fariba Adelkhah, who was detained in June last year and two Australians, travel bloggers Jolie King and Mark Firkin who were later released in October 2019 in a swap for Iranian student Reza Dehbashi.

Iran swaps jailed Australian academic for three citizens: Report

After acknowledging a key mistake in its vaccine dosage, AstraZeneca said that "additional study" was to validate the efficacy of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-could-arrive-before-christmas-german-chancellor-merkel-to-parliament-345552">vaccine</a>.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/astrazeneca-defends-dosing-error-in-covid-19-vaccine-trial-345595/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The British drugmaker had earlier said that average efficacy of the vaccine was 70 per cent. AstraZeneca has developed the vaccine in collaboration with Oxford University with several countries announcing their intention to buy the vaccine.

Meanwhile, US pharma giant Pfizer said it had begun the process of getting its new COVID-19 vaccine approved in Brazil.

"This is an important step so that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-secretary-harsh-shringla-assures-nepal-on-vaccine-both-agree-to-advance-cooperation-345617">vaccine</a> can be available in Brazil," Pfizer said in a statement as the company representatives met Brazil's National Health Oversight Agency (ANVISA) to begin the process of presenting the results.

Brazil is the worst-hit nations with the virus after the United States with over 6.1 million cases and over 170,760 deaths.

Brazil's health ministry had earlier agreed to buy 100 million doses of vaccine developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University.

Mexico and Argentina had also concluded an agreement with AstraZeneca to produce the vaccine with Latin America battling the pandemic on a large scale. Mexico has registered nearly 102,000 coronavirus deaths which is the fourth highest in the world.

AstraZeneca's two-dose vaccine had given complicated results with the drug working 70 per cent of the time. During early trials, some volunteers had initially received half-dose in error which Oxford said was due to change "in the manufacturing process".&nbsp;

Amid the race for the vaccine, World Health Organization (WHO) chief &nbsp;Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that since "initial supply of COVID-19 vaccines will be limited, so health workers, older people and other at-risk populations will be prioritised".

"The urgency with which vaccines have been developed must be matched by the same urgency to distribute them fairly," the WHO chief said.

After acknowledging a key mistake in its vaccine dosage, AstraZeneca said that "additional study" was to validate the efficacy of the vaccine. Watch: The British drugmaker had earlier said that average efficacy of the vaccine was 70 per cent.

After acknowledging a key mistake in its vaccine dosage, AstraZeneca said that "additional study" was to validate the efficacy of the vaccine. Watch: The British drugmaker had earlier said that average efficacy of the vaccine was 70 per cent. AstraZeneca has developed the vaccine in collaboration with Oxford University with several countries announcing their intention to buy the vaccine. Meanwhile, US pharma giant Pfizer said it had begun the process of getting its new COVID-19 vaccine approved in Brazil. "This is an important step so that the vaccine can be available in Brazil," Pfizer said in a statement as the company representatives met Brazil's National Health Oversight Agency (ANVISA) to begin the process of presenting the results. Brazil is the worst-hit nations with the virus after the United States with over 6.1 million cases and over 170,760 deaths. Brazil's health ministry had earlier agreed to buy 100 million doses of vaccine developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University. Mexico and Argentina had also concluded an agreement with AstraZeneca to produce the vaccine with Latin America battling the pandemic on a large scale. Mexico has registered nearly 102,000 coronavirus deaths which is the fourth highest in the world. AstraZeneca's two-dose vaccine had given complicated results with the drug working 70 per cent of the time. During early trials, some volunteers had initially received half-dose in error which Oxford said was due to change "in the manufacturing process". Amid the race for the vaccine, World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that since "initial supply of COVID-19 vaccines will be limited, so health workers, older people and other at-risk populations will be prioritised". "The urgency with which vaccines have been developed must be matched by the same urgency to distribute them fairly," the WHO chief said.

AstraZeneca says COVID-19 vaccine need 'additional study'

After the United Nations, the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has now been snubbed by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation(OIC) which is the largest alliance of Muslim countries as it has decided to not discuss Kashmir.

For months, Pakistan has been demanding discussion on Kashmir and wanted the OIC to raise the issue. It wanted its members to join its propaganda drive against India, however, the OIC has snubbed Pakistan.

The meeting it taking place in Niger and the theme is "united against terrorism for peace and development". Several topics are on the agenda this time. The statement has an entire list but there is no mention of Kashmir.

The OIC issued a statement in Arabic too but no mention was made on Kashmir. Pakistan has been living in denial over the issue. A statement from the country's foreign ministry said Kashmir will be discussed, but there has been no mention of it in the OIC agenda.

Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi will be in Niger for the meeting. However, it is not the first time that the OIC has rejected Pakistan's demand.&nbsp;

On the occasion of the 14th session of the Islamic summit conference, Pakistan wanted Kashmir mentioned in the Mecca declaration, however, the request was denied, then, Pakistan began a campaign demanding an extraordinary session of OIC foreign ministers but it didn't happen instead something extraordinary happened - the OIC extended an invite to Sushma Swaraj last year.

In March 2019, the then external affairs minister addressed the foreign ministers meet in Abu Dhabi, but Pakistan boycotted the session but it didn't stop pursuing a hearing at OIC but it hasn't got one. The reason is the lack of support for Pakistan within the OIC.

Last year there was no mention of Kashmir in OIC's final dispatch sent after the meeting of foreign ministers in March. The same meeting was attended by late Sushma Swaraj. A report published by a Pakistani news outlet had called it "a source of embarrassment" for Pakistan. 
&nbsp; 
Islamabad made another attempt this year. In May, Pakistan made a move at the United Nations. The country's permanent representative at the UN Munir Akram made a demand before the OIC member nations. He wanted to create an informal group against India in the name of countering Islamophobia, but it was shot down.

The proposal was made at a routine meeting of the envoys of OIC countries at the United Nations. According to the media of Pakistan, it was the UAE and the Maldives that rejected Pakistan's proposal as Pakistan wanted to create a lobbying group at the UN. The demand was rejected by the envoys representing OIC countries.

On the other hand, India is attempting a West Asia outreach with Indian external affairs minister S Jaishankar on a three-nation tour. Jaishankar was in the UAE today which is one of the OIC members and a key ally for India.

There was a time when Pakistan flaunted its ties with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, now both Arab powers seem to have dumped Pakistan.

After the United Nations, the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has now been snubbed by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation(OIC) which is the largest alliance of Muslim countries as it has decided to not discuss Kashmir.

After the United Nations, the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has now been snubbed by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation(OIC) which is the largest alliance of Muslim countries as it has decided to not discuss Kashmir. For months, Pakistan has been demanding discussion on Kashmir and wanted the OIC to raise the issue. It wanted its members to join its propaganda drive against India, however, the OIC has snubbed Pakistan. The meeting it taking place in Niger and the theme is "united against terrorism for peace and development". Several topics are on the agenda this time. The statement has an entire list but there is no mention of Kashmir. The OIC issued a statement in Arabic too but no mention was made on Kashmir. Pakistan has been living in denial over the issue. A statement from the country's foreign ministry said Kashmir will be discussed, but there has been no mention of it in the OIC agenda. Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi will be in Niger for the meeting. However, it is not the first time that the OIC has rejected Pakistan's demand. On the occasion of the 14th session of the Islamic summit conference, Pakistan wanted Kashmir mentioned in the Mecca declaration, however, the request was denied, then, Pakistan began a campaign demanding an extraordinary session of OIC foreign ministers but it didn't happen instead something extraordinary happened - the OIC extended an invite to Sushma Swaraj last year. In March 2019, the then external affairs minister addressed the foreign ministers meet in Abu Dhabi, but Pakistan boycotted the session but it didn't stop pursuing a hearing at OIC but it hasn't got one. The reason is the lack of support for Pakistan within the OIC. Last year there was no mention of Kashmir in OIC's final dispatch sent after the meeting of foreign ministers in March. The same meeting was attended by late Sushma Swaraj. A report published by a Pakistani news outlet had called it "a source of embarrassment" for Pakistan. Islamabad made another attempt this year. In May, Pakistan made a move at the United Nations. The country's permanent representative at the UN Munir Akram made a demand before the OIC member nations. He wanted to create an informal group against India in the name of countering Islamophobia, but it was shot down. The proposal was made at a routine meeting of the envoys of OIC countries at the United Nations. According to the media of Pakistan, it was the UAE and the Maldives that rejected Pakistan's proposal as Pakistan wanted to create a lobbying group at the UN. The demand was rejected by the envoys representing OIC countries. On the other hand, India is attempting a West Asia outreach with Indian external affairs minister S Jaishankar on a three-nation tour. Jaishankar was in the UAE today which is one of the OIC members and a key ally for India. There was a time when Pakistan flaunted its ties with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, now both Arab powers seem to have dumped Pakistan.

Organisation of Islamic Cooperation snubs Pakistan on Kashmir again

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