India today retired the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-to-retire-mig-27-fighter-plane-today-270493"> iconic MiG-27 fighter </a>jet fleet stationed at the Jodhpur airbase decades after it was introduced into the Air Force.

The fighter jet was used by former Soviet-built aircraft in the last stages of the Afghanistan war. It was inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1985.

The plane proved its mettle during the Kargil war in 1999 firing precision-guided missiles at enemy positions dug deep into the trenches. It had also provided India an edge during "Operation Parakram" in the India-Pakistan standoff in 2001 after the Parliament attack.

The plane meant to fly in low altitude could&nbsp;hit ground-based targets. The MiG-27 was therefore used in a strategic, stealthy role to conduct ground assaults on enemy positions.

The tactical aircraft was exported by the former Soviet Union initially to Warsaw Pact countries and then in a big way to India in the 1980s. A forerunner of the MiG-23, it turned out to be a dedicated ground attack aircraft which carried out attacks against entrenched enemy strongholds&nbsp;

India was given license to produce the MiG-27 under the "Bhadhur" designation. NATO had codenamed the jet "flogger". It could operate within a range of 780 km at a top speed of 1,885 kmph. The meximum height at which it could operate was 46,000 feet.

The MiG-27 was upgraded by the Indian Air Force to ensure its strike capability, however, in recent years the fleet experienced several crashes.

Now, the MiG-27 squadron will be plated on March 31, 2020, with December 27 being its last flying day.

India today retired the iconic MiG-27 fighter jet fleet stationed at the Jodhpur airbase decades after it was introduced into the Air Force. The fighter jet was used by former Soviet-built aircraft in the last stages of the Afghanistan war.

India today retired the iconic MiG-27 fighter jet fleet stationed at the Jodhpur airbase decades after it was introduced into the Air Force. The fighter jet was used by former Soviet-built aircraft in the last stages of the Afghanistan war. It was inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1985. The plane proved its mettle during the Kargil war in 1999 firing precision-guided missiles at enemy positions dug deep into the trenches. It had also provided India an edge during "Operation Parakram" in the India-Pakistan standoff in 2001 after the Parliament attack. The plane meant to fly in low altitude could hit ground-based targets. The MiG-27 was therefore used in a strategic, stealthy role to conduct ground assaults on enemy positions. The tactical aircraft was exported by the former Soviet Union initially to Warsaw Pact countries and then in a big way to India in the 1980s. A forerunner of the MiG-23, it turned out to be a dedicated ground attack aircraft which carried out attacks against entrenched enemy strongholds India was given license to produce the MiG-27 under the "Bhadhur" designation. NATO had codenamed the jet "flogger". It could operate within a range of 780 km at a top speed of 1,885 kmph. The meximum height at which it could operate was 46,000 feet. The MiG-27 was upgraded by the Indian Air Force to ensure its strike capability, however, in recent years the fleet experienced several crashes. Now, the MiG-27 squadron will be plated on March 31, 2020, with December 27 being its last flying day.

Indian Air Force retires MiG-27 'Bahadhur'

After Pakistan legend Shoaib Akhtar <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/danish-kaneria-was-mistreated-in-pakistan-team-for-being-a-hindu-alleges-shoaib-akhtar-270460">alleged that Danish Kaneria</a> was discriminated against in the Pakistan team for being a Hindu, the leg spinner speaking exclusively to WION said that former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq,&nbsp;Mohammad Yousuf and Yunus Khan supported him.

"I will reveal the names in the coming days," he asserted. Kaneria told WION that he would present a clear picture about the alleged discrimination and would be releasing a video through his YouTube channel.

Akhtar speaking to a local channel had said that Pakistan team members allegedly were even reluctant to eat with Kaneria.

"I tell God all the time that I went against the odds and played for the Pakistan team," Kaneria said, adding, "I am a proud Hindu and I am proud of my dharma."

"Mohammad Yousuf and Yunus Khan both supported me. Shoaib Akhtar they all have supported me," the former leg spinner told WION. Akhtar had told the television channel that the Pakistan spinner was never given due credit for his performances and that he was constantly humiliated by his teammates.

Kaneria played in 61 Test matches for the country but was later banned by the ICC for his alleged role in spot-fixing.

Danish Kaneria is fourth on the list of bowlers with most Test wickets for Pakistan behind other fast bowling legends Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Imran Khan, the current prime minister of the country. 
&nbsp;

After Pakistan legend Shoaib Akhtar alleged that Danish Kaneria was discriminated against in the Pakistan team for being a Hindu, the leg spinner speaking exclusively to WION said that former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Yousuf and Yunus Khan supported him.

After Pakistan legend Shoaib Akhtar alleged that Danish Kaneria was discriminated against in the Pakistan team for being a Hindu, the leg spinner speaking exclusively to WION said that former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Yousuf and Yunus Khan supported him. "I will reveal the names in the coming days," he asserted. Kaneria told WION that he would present a clear picture about the alleged discrimination and would be releasing a video through his YouTube channel. Akhtar speaking to a local channel had said that Pakistan team members allegedly were even reluctant to eat with Kaneria. "I tell God all the time that I went against the odds and played for the Pakistan team," Kaneria said, adding, "I am a proud Hindu and I am proud of my dharma." "Mohammad Yousuf and Yunus Khan both supported me. Shoaib Akhtar they all have supported me," the former leg spinner told WION. Akhtar had told the television channel that the Pakistan spinner was never given due credit for his performances and that he was constantly humiliated by his teammates. Kaneria played in 61 Test matches for the country but was later banned by the ICC for his alleged role in spot-fixing. Danish Kaneria is fourth on the list of bowlers with most Test wickets for Pakistan behind other fast bowling legends Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Imran Khan, the current prime minister of the country.

I am a proud Hindu, says Kaneria to WION on religious discrimination in Pak team

A plane crashed in&nbsp;Kazakhstan on Friday with at least a hundred people on board.

The Bek Air aircraft crashed near Almaty airport, reports said. The plane disappeared from radar after takeoff, according to reports.

"There are 14 dead at the (crash) site," Almaty city government said in a statement.

<img alt="​​Emergency and security personnel are seen at the site of a plane crash near Almaty, Kazakhstan, December 27, 2019." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62413a70-1ce8-4862-8533-e54ed2dcb97e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2828%29_2.jpg" />

The Fokker 100 aircraft, heading for the capital, Nur-Sultan, "lost altitude during takeoff and broke through a concrete fence" before hitting a two-story building, Kazakhstan's civil aviation committee said.

The aviation committee added that it was suspending all flights of Fokker 100 aircraft pending an investigation. The authorities said at least 66 people were taken to hospital, including some in grave condition.

"Those responsible will face tough punishment in accordance with the law," Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev tweeted while expressing condolences.

<img alt="​​" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b76e47cb-0d5f-4665-a18a-52e694a41f7c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2827%29_3.jpg" />

Almaty airport officials said emergency services were working at the site to get survivors out.

The plane was carrying 95 passengers and five crew members.

A plane crashed in Kazakhstan on Friday with at least a hundred people on board. The Bek Air aircraft crashed near Almaty airport, reports said. The plane disappeared from radar after takeoff, according to reports.

A plane crashed in Kazakhstan on Friday with at least a hundred people on board. The Bek Air aircraft crashed near Almaty airport, reports said. The plane disappeared from radar after takeoff, according to reports. "There are 14 dead at the (crash) site," Almaty city government said in a statement. The Fokker 100 aircraft, heading for the capital, Nur-Sultan, "lost altitude during takeoff and broke through a concrete fence" before hitting a two-story building, Kazakhstan's civil aviation committee said. The aviation committee added that it was suspending all flights of Fokker 100 aircraft pending an investigation. The authorities said at least 66 people were taken to hospital, including some in grave condition. "Those responsible will face tough punishment in accordance with the law," Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev tweeted while expressing condolences. Almaty airport officials said emergency services were working at the site to get survivors out. The plane was carrying 95 passengers and five crew members.

At least 14 dead as plane crashes in Kazakhstan with hundred on board

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has hit out at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-opens-investigation-into-space-center-fraud-after-putin-rebuke-263614">President Vladimir Putin</a> over an alleged forcible military conscription of one of his allies to a remote airbase in the Arctic.

Navalny supporters said the incident amounted to "kidnapping".

Navalny said his key aide Ruslan Shaveddinov was detained by police at his Moscow flat and went missing only to resurface in Novaya Zemlya archipelago in the Arctic Ocean.

Shaveddinov phone SIM was disabled, Navalny informed.

The opposition leader said the activist&nbsp;who had earlier tried to appeal his conscription on medical grounds&nbsp;managed to make a phone call using someone else's phone.

The opposition has accused the Putin government of Soviet-style political suppression in which detainees were sent to a remote area. It said that Ruslan has been sent to a base where only professional soldiers serve.

Shaveddinov lawyer Arkady Chaplygin said that nobody does military service by conscription at Novaya Zemlya.&nbsp;

"People who serve there are professional soldiers. Military activity in Belushya Guba is mostly about some scientific military studies. There is no place for a conscript there. Effectively Ruslan was sent to a labour camp in exile to serve his time," Chaplygin said.

Ivan Zhdanov, Russian opposition activist said: "We fully understand that Ruslan's kidnapping is a part of the strategy aimed to pressure the Anti-Corruption Foundation.

"It also includes freezing accounts, personal court cases against opposition activists following the summer protests, constant searches in the offices of Alexei Navalny and across Russia," Zhdanov added.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has hit out at President Vladimir Putin over an alleged forcible military conscription of one of his allies to a remote airbase in the Arctic.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has hit out at President Vladimir Putin over an alleged forcible military conscription of one of his allies to a remote airbase in the Arctic. Navalny supporters said the incident amounted to "kidnapping". Navalny said his key aide Ruslan Shaveddinov was detained by police at his Moscow flat and went missing only to resurface in Novaya Zemlya archipelago in the Arctic Ocean. Shaveddinov phone SIM was disabled, Navalny informed. The opposition leader said the activist who had earlier tried to appeal his conscription on medical grounds managed to make a phone call using someone else's phone. The opposition has accused the Putin government of Soviet-style political suppression in which detainees were sent to a remote area. It said that Ruslan has been sent to a base where only professional soldiers serve. Shaveddinov lawyer Arkady Chaplygin said that nobody does military service by conscription at Novaya Zemlya. "People who serve there are professional soldiers. Military activity in Belushya Guba is mostly about some scientific military studies. There is no place for a conscript there. Effectively Ruslan was sent to a labour camp in exile to serve his time," Chaplygin said. Ivan Zhdanov, Russian opposition activist said: "We fully understand that Ruslan's kidnapping is a part of the strategy aimed to pressure the Anti-Corruption Foundation. "It also includes freezing accounts, personal court cases against opposition activists following the summer protests, constant searches in the offices of Alexei Navalny and across Russia," Zhdanov added.

Ruslan forcibly conscripted, sent to Arctic base: Russian opposition leader Navalny

Australian firefighters spent much of Christmas <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-brisbane-residents-get-rain-respite-amid-wildfire-270096">fighting wildfires</a> as unexpected cooler conditions helped to contain the fires somewhat even as the country cheered their efforts.

The volunteer firefighters spent the day in New South Wales took time out from Christmas Day celebrations to contribute towards fighting the devastating fires which have devasted large parts of the region.

The bushfire affected Australia's favourite game cricket as well with Test bowler Peter Siddle being treated for smoke inhalation after a Big Bash League match in Canberra. The match had to abandoned due to toxic smoke engulfing the stadium.

As the match was abandoned, the Australian Cricketers Association said it was working with the &nbsp;International Cricket Council(ICC) to prepare guidelines for a "air quality policy."

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-sydney-brisbane-residents-get-rain-respite-amid-wildfire-270121/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to forecasters, heat conditions are set to return in a few days, especially over the weekend as firefighters continue to battle the raging bushfires. On Christmas Eve, Sydney and Brisbane's residents received much-needed rain relief from the fires as rain hit the area. Several took to social media to celebrate residents sharing videos of thunderstorm hitting the eastern Australian city of Brisbane.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison who has been under fire for taking a vacation in Hawaii in the midst of a tough wildfire wave thanked volunteers on Christmas for their gallant effort.

"As we look forward to next year and as we celebrate this Christmas I want to thank all of those who serve our nation," PM Scott Morrison said in a video post on social media. PM Morrison had earlier announced paid leave for volunteer firefighters during his tour to fire-affected areas across the country.

Australia has been fighting wildfires for weeks now, with blazes destroying over 700 homes and nearly three million acres of bushland.

Australian firefighters spent much of Christmas fighting wildfires as unexpected cooler conditions helped to contain the fires somewhat even as the country cheered their efforts.

Australian firefighters spent much of Christmas fighting wildfires as unexpected cooler conditions helped to contain the fires somewhat even as the country cheered their efforts. The volunteer firefighters spent the day in New South Wales took time out from Christmas Day celebrations to contribute towards fighting the devastating fires which have devasted large parts of the region. The bushfire affected Australia's favourite game cricket as well with Test bowler Peter Siddle being treated for smoke inhalation after a Big Bash League match in Canberra. The match had to abandoned due to toxic smoke engulfing the stadium. As the match was abandoned, the Australian Cricketers Association said it was working with the International Cricket Council(ICC) to prepare guidelines for a "air quality policy." Watch Video: According to forecasters, heat conditions are set to return in a few days, especially over the weekend as firefighters continue to battle the raging bushfires. On Christmas Eve, Sydney and Brisbane's residents received much-needed rain relief from the fires as rain hit the area. Several took to social media to celebrate residents sharing videos of thunderstorm hitting the eastern Australian city of Brisbane. Prime Minister Scott Morrison who has been under fire for taking a vacation in Hawaii in the midst of a tough wildfire wave thanked volunteers on Christmas for their gallant effort. "As we look forward to next year and as we celebrate this Christmas I want to thank all of those who serve our nation," PM Scott Morrison said in a video post on social media. PM Morrison had earlier announced paid leave for volunteer firefighters during his tour to fire-affected areas across the country. Australia has been fighting wildfires for weeks now, with blazes destroying over 700 homes and nearly three million acres of bushland.

Firefighters in Australia spend Christmas Day containing wildfires

As the last solar eclipse of the decade began to be witnessed&nbsp;in some parts of the world, PM Modi tweeted saying although he was enthusiastic about it but he couldn't see it "due to the cloud cover".

"I did catch glimpses of the eclipse in Kozhikode and other parts on live stream. Also enriched my knowledge on the subject by interacting with experts," India's prime minister said in a tweet on Wednesday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Like many Indians, I was enthusiastic about <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/solareclipse2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#solareclipse2019</a>. 
 
Unfortunately, I could not see the Sun due to cloud cover but I did catch glimpses of the eclipse in Kozhikode and other parts on live stream. Also enriched my knowledge on the subject by interacting with experts. <a href="https://t.co/EI1dcIWRIz">pic.twitter.com/EI1dcIWRIz</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1210064755584454656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A Twitter user shot back saying it will now become a meme, to which the prime minister replied: "Most welcome....enjoy." with a smile.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Most welcome....enjoy :) <a href="https://t.co/uSFlDp0Ogm">https://t.co/uSFlDp0Ogm</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1210070312760557570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun which appears like a Ring of fire also called the "Surya Grahan" in Hindi.

People gathered early on Thursday&nbsp;to watch the celestial miracle with full solar eclipse expected in India, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Reports said Thailand too will witness a partial solar eclipse including the Middle-east and South Asian countries. It is expected to be at its peak in mid-day.

In India, the solar eclipse was visible in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, Gujarat and national capital Delhi. The eclipse which began on Thursday&nbsp;morning is expected to be visible till mid-afternoon in the country.

As the last solar eclipse of the decade began to be witnessed in some parts of the world, PM Modi tweeted saying although he was enthusiastic about it but he couldn't see it "due to the cloud cover".

As the last solar eclipse of the decade began to be witnessed in some parts of the world, PM Modi tweeted saying although he was enthusiastic about it but he couldn't see it "due to the cloud cover". "I did catch glimpses of the eclipse in Kozhikode and other parts on live stream. Also enriched my knowledge on the subject by interacting with experts," India's prime minister said in a tweet on Wednesday. Like many Indians, I was enthusiastic about #solareclipse2019. Unfortunately, I could not see the Sun due to cloud cover but I did catch glimpses of the eclipse in Kozhikode and other parts on live stream. Also enriched my knowledge on the subject by interacting with experts. pic.twitter.com/EI1dcIWRIz — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 26, 2019 × A Twitter user shot back saying it will now become a meme, to which the prime minister replied: "Most welcome....enjoy." with a smile. Most welcome....enjoy :) https://t.co/uSFlDp0Ogm — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 26, 2019 × During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun which appears like a Ring of fire also called the "Surya Grahan" in Hindi. People gathered early on Thursday to watch the celestial miracle with full solar eclipse expected in India, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Reports said Thailand too will witness a partial solar eclipse including the Middle-east and South Asian countries. It is expected to be at its peak in mid-day. In India, the solar eclipse was visible in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, Gujarat and national capital Delhi. The eclipse which began on Thursday morning is expected to be visible till mid-afternoon in the country.

Unfortunately, I could not see the Sun due to cloud cover, tweets PM Modi on solar eclipse

Protesters clashed with riot police in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-after-chaotic-christmas-eve-little-halt-in-clashes-270233">Hong Kong shopping malls</a> in Hong Kong with no letup in clashes over Christmas.

The protests which have entered the seventh month provided a grim picture on Christmas as police used pepper spray and tear gas on pro-democracy activists in malls.

Police used several rounds of tear gas shells in the Mong Kok area which has seen multiple clashes in the past. Reports said a branch HSBC was vandalised in Mong Kok area.

Watch:&nbsp;Hong Kong riot police fire tear gas at protesters

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-riot-police-fire-tear-gas-as-christmas-eve-protests-intensify-270221/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

There was a heavy police presence in Tsim Sha Tsui, a popular tourist destination even as police issued warnings that rioters would be arrested.

Authorities also closed down Metro operations in at least two stations at Mong Kok and Tsim Sha Tsui as protests spread.

Malls were a target on Christmas Day as with several protesters going after Starbucks cafe in Mira Place as Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam condemned the act of protesters.

"Such illegal acts have not only dampened the festive mood but also adversely affected local businesses," Lam said in a Facebook post.

Meanwhile, the Civil Human Rights Front has applied to stage another march on New Year's Day indicating there would be no rest for authorities in the runup to the new year.

Protesters clashed with riot police in Hong Kong shopping malls in Hong Kong with no letup in clashes over Christmas. The protests which have entered the seventh month provided a grim picture on Christmas as police used pepper spray and tear gas on pro-democracy activists in malls.

Protesters clashed with riot police in Hong Kong shopping malls in Hong Kong with no letup in clashes over Christmas. The protests which have entered the seventh month provided a grim picture on Christmas as police used pepper spray and tear gas on pro-democracy activists in malls. Police used several rounds of tear gas shells in the Mong Kok area which has seen multiple clashes in the past. Reports said a branch HSBC was vandalised in Mong Kok area. Watch: Hong Kong riot police fire tear gas at protesters × There was a heavy police presence in Tsim Sha Tsui, a popular tourist destination even as police issued warnings that rioters would be arrested. Authorities also closed down Metro operations in at least two stations at Mong Kok and Tsim Sha Tsui as protests spread. Malls were a target on Christmas Day as with several protesters going after Starbucks cafe in Mira Place as Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam condemned the act of protesters. "Such illegal acts have not only dampened the festive mood but also adversely affected local businesses," Lam said in a Facebook post. Meanwhile, the Civil Human Rights Front has applied to stage another march on New Year's Day indicating there would be no rest for authorities in the runup to the new year.

Protesters target malls during Christmas in Hong Kong

At least sixteen people were&nbsp;killed as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-phanfone-ruining-christmas-for-thousands-of-filipinos-270027">Typhoon Phanfone devasted</a> the Philippines on Christmas Day.

The typhoon rated as category 2 brought strong gusts of winds and rains as it made landfall in the eastern province of the Philippines.

Most of the casualties occurred in central Philippines, disaster agency officials said.

Authorities said at least six people were&nbsp;missing with several thousand evacuated from the affected area.

Christmas celebrations had to be cut short as over 16,000 people were moved to shelters as the typhoon hit the country. In eastern Visayas region located in central Philippines over 4,000 people had to be moved out by authorities.

Several thousand passengers and ships in ports with ferry services still shut down around the country and domestic flights cancelled as the country the full force of Typhoon Phanfone.

In Cebu located on the north several houses were destroyed as the typhoon barrelled through the region. People were deprived of good meals on Christmas Day spending the night at evacuation centres while surviving on soup, tinned fish and instant noodles.&nbsp;

However, according to forecasters Typhoon Phanfone is expected to exit the country today.&nbsp;

Philippines which is located on the Pacific cyclone belt experiences typhoon and storms regularly throughout the year, however, the storms have destroyed large tracts in recent years with the devasting force.

At least sixteen people were killed as Typhoon Phanfone devasted the Philippines on Christmas Day. The typhoon rated as category 2 brought strong gusts of winds and rains as it made landfall in the eastern province of the Philippines.

At least sixteen people were killed as Typhoon Phanfone devasted the Philippines on Christmas Day. The typhoon rated as category 2 brought strong gusts of winds and rains as it made landfall in the eastern province of the Philippines. Most of the casualties occurred in central Philippines, disaster agency officials said. Authorities said at least six people were missing with several thousand evacuated from the affected area. Christmas celebrations had to be cut short as over 16,000 people were moved to shelters as the typhoon hit the country. In eastern Visayas region located in central Philippines over 4,000 people had to be moved out by authorities. Several thousand passengers and ships in ports with ferry services still shut down around the country and domestic flights cancelled as the country the full force of Typhoon Phanfone. In Cebu located on the north several houses were destroyed as the typhoon barrelled through the region. People were deprived of good meals on Christmas Day spending the night at evacuation centres while surviving on soup, tinned fish and instant noodles. However, according to forecasters Typhoon Phanfone is expected to exit the country today. Philippines which is located on the Pacific cyclone belt experiences typhoon and storms regularly throughout the year, however, the storms have destroyed large tracts in recent years with the devasting force.

At least 16 killed as Typhoon Phanfone devastates Philippines

New Zealand all-rounder Colin De Grandhomme broke a stubborn third-wicket partnership by bowling <a href="wionews.com/sports/daynight-test-labuschagnes-ton-rescues-australia-on-day-1-against-new-zealand-267932">Marnus Labuschagne</a> but Australia's batsmen were otherwise dominant as they pushed to 155 for three at tea on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test on Thursday.

Labuschagne was out for 63 failing to play a shot, with the ball clipping his elbow before clattering into the stumps.

The number three batsman's dismissal ended an 83-run partnership with Smith, giving New Zealand's bowlers a late reward after they were unlucky not to make further inroads at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-becomes-fastest-man-to-reach-7000-runs-265372">Steve Smith</a> was 41 not out, with Matthew Wade on seven after New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and sent Australia in to bat.

Williamson was tempted by a&nbsp;pitch with a covering of grass under an overcast sky and his decision paid an&nbsp;immediate dividend when recalled paceman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealands-trent-boult-on-track-for-dream-boxing-day-test-against-australia-268852">Trent Boult</a> bowled opener, Joe Burns, for a first-ball duck with the fourth delivery of the morning.

But Warner and Labuschagne hung tough for a 60-run partnership before the former nicked Neil Wagner into the slips where Tim Southee dived for a sharp one-handed catch.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-new-zealand-by-296-runs-to-win-first-test-in-perth-268378">Australia</a> reached lunch at 67 for two but were fortunate not to lose&nbsp;Labuschagne for 27 after the break when he was called through for a risky single then turned back by Smith. Williamson's throw at the stumps from mid-off flew wide with Labuschagne metres short of his ground.

Wade was also in the action with the second-last ball before tea, with neither wicketkeeper BJ Watling nor first slip moving for a catch off the bowling of Wagner.

The umpire gave four runs for Wade when the ball raced to the boundary but replays appeared to show it had missed his bat and pinged off his thigh.

New Zealand made two changes, with fit-again Boult replacing the injured <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-fast-bowler-ferguson-gets-new-zealand-test-call-262318">Lockie Ferguson</a> and wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Blundell coming in for the dropped opener Jeet Raval.&nbsp;Australia recalled paceman James Pattinson to replace the injured Josh Hazlewood.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-new-zealand-by-296-runs-to-win-first-test-in-perth-268378">Australia</a> lead the three-match series 1-0 after winning the opener in Perth by 296 runs.

The home side's selectors said they had added uncapped spinner Mitchell Swepson to the squad for the third and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

New Zealand all-rounder Colin De Grandhomme broke a stubborn third-wicket partnership by bowling Marnus Labuschagne but Australia's batsmen were otherwise dominant as they pushed to 155 for three at tea on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test on Thursday.

New Zealand all-rounder Colin De Grandhomme broke a stubborn third-wicket partnership by bowling Marnus Labuschagne but Australia's batsmen were otherwise dominant as they pushed to 155 for three at tea on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test on Thursday. Labuschagne was out for 63 failing to play a shot, with the ball clipping his elbow before clattering into the stumps. The number three batsman's dismissal ended an 83-run partnership with Smith, giving New Zealand's bowlers a late reward after they were unlucky not to make further inroads at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Steve Smith was 41 not out, with Matthew Wade on seven after New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and sent Australia in to bat. Williamson was tempted by a pitch with a covering of grass under an overcast sky and his decision paid an immediate dividend when recalled paceman Trent Boult bowled opener, Joe Burns, for a first-ball duck with the fourth delivery of the morning. But Warner and Labuschagne hung tough for a 60-run partnership before the former nicked Neil Wagner into the slips where Tim Southee dived for a sharp one-handed catch. Australia reached lunch at 67 for two but were fortunate not to lose Labuschagne for 27 after the break when he was called through for a risky single then turned back by Smith. Williamson's throw at the stumps from mid-off flew wide with Labuschagne metres short of his ground. Wade was also in the action with the second-last ball before tea, with neither wicketkeeper BJ Watling nor first slip moving for a catch off the bowling of Wagner. The umpire gave four runs for Wade when the ball raced to the boundary but replays appeared to show it had missed his bat and pinged off his thigh. New Zealand made two changes, with fit-again Boult replacing the injured Lockie Ferguson and wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Blundell coming in for the dropped opener Jeet Raval. Australia recalled paceman James Pattinson to replace the injured Josh Hazlewood. Australia lead the three-match series 1-0 after winning the opener in Perth by 296 runs. The home side's selectors said they had added uncapped spinner Mitchell Swepson to the squad for the third and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Boxing Day Test: Australia move to 155-3 at tea

England football team chief Gareth Southgate in a recent interview with a British channel said&nbsp;that he would be "disappointed"&nbsp;not to be linked to any Premier League club manager position. Under his guidance, England for the first time since the 1990 World Cup had reached the&nbsp;semi-final.

The latest FIFA world rankings has&nbsp;put the England team in the number four position&nbsp;after Belgium, France and Brazil, respectively. Southgate has also managed to guarantee England's place in the Euro 2020 having won the qualification match against Bulgaria, Kosovo and Montenegro.&nbsp;

However, Southgate still has hopes for the English team and said he has goals to achieve before he leaves his position. During the interview with&nbsp;the British channel, he was quoted as saying that he was&nbsp;"completely fulfilled in the role" and that it was&nbsp;a "privilege"&nbsp;to be the England&nbsp;manager.

"Sometimes in life we are always looking at what's coming next and not relishing how fortunate we are to be in the position that we are in," he said.

Southgate has said that he is very dedicated to his current job and responsibilities as manager of the England team, which is why he said he believes that his "phone hasn't been ringing".

However, the national team manager was quoted saying that "somewhere in between that, there is going to be something else. I'd be disappointed if I wasn't linked with some of those jobs if I'm honest".

England are&nbsp;all set to open their Euro 2020 campaign in a group-stage match against Croatia, on June 14, 2020. England are in Group D.

England football team chief Gareth Southgate in a recent interview with a British channel said that he would be "disappointed" not to be linked to any Premier League club manager position.

England football team chief Gareth Southgate in a recent interview with a British channel said that he would be "disappointed" not to be linked to any Premier League club manager position. Under his guidance, England for the first time since the 1990 World Cup had reached the semi-final. The latest FIFA world rankings has put the England team in the number four position after Belgium, France and Brazil, respectively. Southgate has also managed to guarantee England's place in the Euro 2020 having won the qualification match against Bulgaria, Kosovo and Montenegro. However, Southgate still has hopes for the English team and said he has goals to achieve before he leaves his position. During the interview with the British channel, he was quoted as saying that he was "completely fulfilled in the role" and that it was a "privilege" to be the England manager. "Sometimes in life we are always looking at what's coming next and not relishing how fortunate we are to be in the position that we are in," he said. Southgate has said that he is very dedicated to his current job and responsibilities as manager of the England team, which is why he said he believes that his "phone hasn't been ringing". However, the national team manager was quoted saying that "somewhere in between that, there is going to be something else. I'd be disappointed if I wasn't linked with some of those jobs if I'm honest". England are all set to open their Euro 2020 campaign in a group-stage match against Croatia, on June 14, 2020. England are in Group D.

Football: England chief Southgate 'disappointed' not to be linked with EPL clubs

After a warning of a rocket attack from the Gaza Strip, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was bundled off the stage during an election rally on Wednesday.

Netanyahu was holding a rally in the southern city of Ashkelon where he was made to stop while addressing Likud supporters and had bodyguards escort him to shelter after a rocket from Gaza flew overhead Ashkelon city.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In response to the rocket fired from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> at Israeli civilians earlier tonight, the Israeli Air Force just struck a number of Hamas terror targets in Gaza.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1209997194364882947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

There were no reports of any casualties and no Palestinian group admitted responsibility.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/benjamin-netanyahu-rushed-offstage-as-rocket-fired-from-gaza-into-israel-270274/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Netanyahu faces a tough battle ahead of the March general election in Israel - it's third in a year. The Israeli prime minister's image has been dented in recent times by indictment on corruption charges that he denies.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
IDF Chief of the General Staff LTG Aviv Kohavi addressing the threats Israel is facing and how the IDF plans to face them. <a href="https://t.co/AFtEk1lrFU">pic.twitter.com/AFtEk1lrFU</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1210019376189071361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the Israeli military has confirmed the launch against Ashkelon, which is 12 kilometres from the coastal Palestinian enclave, and said the rocket was shot down by an Iron Dome air defence interceptor.

Israel defence forces addressed the threats and also how the IDF plans to face it.

After the attack, Israel defence forces tweeted: "the Israeli Air Force just struck a number of Hamas terror targets in Gaza. Israel's modern miracle the Iron Dome just intercepted a rocket mid-air after it was fired from Gaza at Israeli civilians." 
&nbsp;

After a warning of a rocket attack from the Gaza Strip, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was bundled off the stage during an election rally on Wednesday.

After a warning of a rocket attack from the Gaza Strip, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was bundled off the stage during an election rally on Wednesday. Netanyahu was holding a rally in the southern city of Ashkelon where he was made to stop while addressing Likud supporters and had bodyguards escort him to shelter after a rocket from Gaza flew overhead Ashkelon city. In response to the rocket fired from #Gaza at Israeli civilians earlier tonight, the Israeli Air Force just struck a number of Hamas terror targets in Gaza. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 26, 2019 × There were no reports of any casualties and no Palestinian group admitted responsibility. Watch Video: Netanyahu faces a tough battle ahead of the March general election in Israel - it's third in a year. The Israeli prime minister's image has been dented in recent times by indictment on corruption charges that he denies. IDF Chief of the General Staff LTG Aviv Kohavi addressing the threats Israel is facing and how the IDF plans to face them. pic.twitter.com/AFtEk1lrFU — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 26, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Israeli military has confirmed the launch against Ashkelon, which is 12 kilometres from the coastal Palestinian enclave, and said the rocket was shot down by an Iron Dome air defence interceptor. Israel defence forces addressed the threats and also how the IDF plans to face it. After the attack, Israel defence forces tweeted: "the Israeli Air Force just struck a number of Hamas terror targets in Gaza. Israel's modern miracle the Iron Dome just intercepted a rocket mid-air after it was fired from Gaza at Israeli civilians."

Netanyahu takes cover during election rally after rocket launch from Gaza

Israeli military aircraft carried out air strikes against the Gaza Strip on Wednesday night, the army said, in what it called a response to a rocket fired from the Hamas-controlled Palestinian enclave.

Warning sirens had cut short a rally by Israeli <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-takes-cover-during-election-rally-after-rocket-launch-from-gaza-270253">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> as he campaigned on the eve of his Likud party's primaries being held on Thursday, public television reported.

"Planes and helicopters hit several Hamas terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip. Military posts were among the targets," the Israeli army said in a statement.&nbsp;

The army had earlier said "a projectile was fired from the Gaza Strip towards Israeli territory and was intercepted by the Iron Dome defence system".

Israel's public broadcaster KAN 11 showed images of a security guard informing Netanyahu of a "red alert" late Wednesday.

The prime minister waved goodbye before being hustled from the room with his wife Sarah.

On September 10, the head of the Likud party had also been evacuated from an election rally, in the southern city of Ashdod, after sirens warned of an attack from Gaza.

On Thursday, the embattled premier will face off against longtime rival Gideon Saar in a Likud leadership contest that could threaten his grip on power.

Last week, two rocket attacks were launched against Israel from Gaza without causing injury, Israel's army said.

In response, Israeli warplanes twice bombed Hamas installations in the enclave.

Israel holds the Islamist movement responsible for all rocket attacks coming from Gaza, though the Jewish state also targets other armed groups operating there.

Since 2008, Israel has waged three wars against Hamas and its armed allies in Gaza, where two million Palestinians live amid violence, poverty and a 10-year Israeli blockade.

Israeli military aircraft carried out air strikes against the Gaza Strip on Wednesday night, the army said, in what it called a response to a rocket fired from the Hamas-controlled Palestinian enclave.

Israeli military aircraft carried out air strikes against the Gaza Strip on Wednesday night, the army said, in what it called a response to a rocket fired from the Hamas-controlled Palestinian enclave. Warning sirens had cut short a rally by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he campaigned on the eve of his Likud party's primaries being held on Thursday, public television reported. "Planes and helicopters hit several Hamas terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip. Military posts were among the targets," the Israeli army said in a statement. The army had earlier said "a projectile was fired from the Gaza Strip towards Israeli territory and was intercepted by the Iron Dome defence system". Israel's public broadcaster KAN 11 showed images of a security guard informing Netanyahu of a "red alert" late Wednesday. The prime minister waved goodbye before being hustled from the room with his wife Sarah. On September 10, the head of the Likud party had also been evacuated from an election rally, in the southern city of Ashdod, after sirens warned of an attack from Gaza. On Thursday, the embattled premier will face off against longtime rival Gideon Saar in a Likud leadership contest that could threaten his grip on power. Last week, two rocket attacks were launched against Israel from Gaza without causing injury, Israel's army said. In response, Israeli warplanes twice bombed Hamas installations in the enclave. Israel holds the Islamist movement responsible for all rocket attacks coming from Gaza, though the Jewish state also targets other armed groups operating there. Since 2008, Israel has waged three wars against Hamas and its armed allies in Gaza, where two million Palestinians live amid violence, poverty and a 10-year Israeli blockade.

Israel launches air strikes on Gaza after rocket attack

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Rustam

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

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