Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad said an Egyptian-mediated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-jihad-offers-egypt-mediated-ceasefire-terms-to-israel-as-death-toll-mounts-261923">truce with Israel</a> was in force in the Gaza Strip as of 0330 GMT on Thursday, and a Reuters witness confirmed that fighting had subsided.

An Islamic Jihad official told Reuters that Israel had agreed to the faction's demand that it cease targeted killings of militants and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-israel-gaza-escalation-rages-for-second-day-261866">shooting of Gaza border </a>protesters. There was no immediate confirmation of this from Israeli officials.

The worst surge in fighting around the Palestinian enclave was sparked on Tuesday when Israel killed Islamic Jihad's top Gaza field commander in an air strike, accusing him of masterminding a spree of recent attacks and planning more soon.

As Islamic Jihad fighters responded with hundreds of rocket launches that reached as far as Tel Aviv and paralysed parts of Israel, it pressed the aerial barrage on the Gaza Strip.

In his first public comments on the fighting, Islamic Jihad leader Zeyad al-Nakhala said a truce could be agreed immediately if Israel accepted the Iranian-backed faction's terms.

These included Israel ending targeted killings of militants, its sometimes lethal response to weekly Gaza protests and steps to ease its blockade on the coastal Palestinian enclave, al-Nakhala, who is based in Beirut, told Al-Mayadeen TV.

Israel signalled openness only to a quid-pro-quo restraint.

"Quiet will be answered with quiet," Israel's Army Radio quoted an unnamed Israeli government official as saying. "Islamic Jihad wants a ceasefire, and it is thus trying to create a false impression of achievements."

Hamas, in turn, has voiced solidarity with Islamic Jihad but has not claimed responsibility for any of the rocket launches. 
&nbsp;

Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad said an Egyptian-mediated truce with Israel was in force in the Gaza Strip as of 0330 GMT on Thursday, and a Reuters witness confirmed that fighting had subsided.

Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad said an Egyptian-mediated truce with Israel was in force in the Gaza Strip as of 0330 GMT on Thursday, and a Reuters witness confirmed that fighting had subsided. An Islamic Jihad official told Reuters that Israel had agreed to the faction's demand that it cease targeted killings of militants and shooting of Gaza border protesters. There was no immediate confirmation of this from Israeli officials. The worst surge in fighting around the Palestinian enclave was sparked on Tuesday when Israel killed Islamic Jihad's top Gaza field commander in an air strike, accusing him of masterminding a spree of recent attacks and planning more soon. As Islamic Jihad fighters responded with hundreds of rocket launches that reached as far as Tel Aviv and paralysed parts of Israel, it pressed the aerial barrage on the Gaza Strip. In his first public comments on the fighting, Islamic Jihad leader Zeyad al-Nakhala said a truce could be agreed immediately if Israel accepted the Iranian-backed faction's terms. These included Israel ending targeted killings of militants, its sometimes lethal response to weekly Gaza protests and steps to ease its blockade on the coastal Palestinian enclave, al-Nakhala, who is based in Beirut, told Al-Mayadeen TV. Israel signalled openness only to a quid-pro-quo restraint. "Quiet will be answered with quiet," Israel's Army Radio quoted an unnamed Israeli government official as saying. "Islamic Jihad wants a ceasefire, and it is thus trying to create a false impression of achievements." Hamas, in turn, has voiced solidarity with Islamic Jihad but has not claimed responsibility for any of the rocket launches.

Egypt-mediated truce with Israel in force in Gaza: Islamic Jihad

The United States will maintain around <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-syria-operation-reveals-cracks-among-erdogans-political-foes-261786">600 troops in Syria</a>, Pentagon chief Mark Esper said on Wednesday, despite Donald Trump's desire to end US involvement in what the president calls "endless wars".

"We're still moving troops out of northeastern Syria," the US defence secretary said onboard a plane as he travelled to Seoul, where he begins a tour of Asia on Thursday.&nbsp;

"We're going to have about 500 to 600-ish troops there, at the end of the day," he said.

Asked if that figure included the approximately<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-killed-in-bombing-in-turkish-controlled-northeast-syria-261218"> 200 troops deployed to the Al-Tanf base</a> near the southeastern borders with Jordan and Iraq, Esper said that he was referring to northeastern Syria, where Trump has instructed the Pentagon to secure oil fields.

There would be "600-ish" troops across the country, he then reiterated.

Esper said that the numbers could fluctuate, particularly if European allies strengthen their presence in the country.

"Things change. Events on the ground change. We could have, for example, partners and allies from Europe joining us," he said. "If they join us on the ground it may allow us the ability to redeploy further US forces out there."

Trump's abrupt announcement last month that he had ordered a full troop withdrawal drew angry rebukes at home and abroad.&nbsp;

Critics said it could allow a resurgence of the Islamic State group while leaving US-allied Kurdish fighters in Syria vulnerable to a Turkish invasion.

The US president later relented in part, saying he would leave some troops in the region to protect valuable oil fields.

The United States will maintain around 600 troops in Syria, Pentagon chief Mark Esper said on Wednesday, despite Donald Trump's desire to end US involvement in what the president calls "endless wars".

The United States will maintain around 600 troops in Syria, Pentagon chief Mark Esper said on Wednesday, despite Donald Trump's desire to end US involvement in what the president calls "endless wars". "We're still moving troops out of northeastern Syria," the US defence secretary said onboard a plane as he travelled to Seoul, where he begins a tour of Asia on Thursday. "We're going to have about 500 to 600-ish troops there, at the end of the day," he said. Asked if that figure included the approximately 200 troops deployed to the Al-Tanf base near the southeastern borders with Jordan and Iraq, Esper said that he was referring to northeastern Syria, where Trump has instructed the Pentagon to secure oil fields. There would be "600-ish" troops across the country, he then reiterated. Esper said that the numbers could fluctuate, particularly if European allies strengthen their presence in the country. "Things change. Events on the ground change. We could have, for example, partners and allies from Europe joining us," he said. "If they join us on the ground it may allow us the ability to redeploy further US forces out there." Trump's abrupt announcement last month that he had ordered a full troop withdrawal drew angry rebukes at home and abroad. Critics said it could allow a resurgence of the Islamic State group while leaving US-allied Kurdish fighters in Syria vulnerable to a Turkish invasion. The US president later relented in part, saying he would leave some troops in the region to protect valuable oil fields.

US to maintain around 600 troops in Syria: US defence secretary Mark Esper

US President Donald Trump speaking at the &nbsp;Economic Club in New York on Tuesday said that countries like "China, India and Russia are doing absolutely nothing to clean up their smokestacks and clean up all of their plants and all of the garbage that they're dropping in the sea floats into Los Angeles".

Trump who pulled the US out of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/can-the-paris-agreement-on-climate-change-succeed-without-the-us-4-questions-answered-261823"> Paris climate accord </a>last year amid worldwide criticism, said, "We have a relatively small piece of land - the United States. And you compare that to some of the other countries like China, like India, like Russia, like many other countries that absolutely are doing absolutely nothing to clean up their smokestacks and clean up all of their plants and all of the garbage that they're dropping in sea and that floats into Los Angeles, along with other problems that Los Angeles has, by the way."

"But when you see this happening, it's - nobody wants to talk about it. They want to talk about our country. We have to do this. We have can't have planes any longer. We can't have cows any longer. We can't have anything."

"I said, What about China?"

Last week, the US had filed paperwork for the formal exit<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-climate-agreement-us-should-take-more-responsibility-says-china-260120"> from the Paris Agreement</a>, a one-year process to walk out of&nbsp;the global pact which aims to fight climate change even as US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo added said that the United States had trimmed its emissions in recent years.

Speaking in New York, the US President asserted that he was "very much into climate", adding,&nbsp;"but I want the cleanest air on the planet and I want to have - I have to have clean air-water."

Trump declared the Paris Agreement a "disaster", stating that it resulted in "trillions and trillions of dollars" of destruction to America.

"And it is so unfair. It doesn't kick in for China until 2030. Russia goes back into the 1990s, where the base year was the dirtiest year ever in the world. India, we are supposed to pay them money because they are a developing nation. I said, "We&nbsp;'re a developing nation, too."

Even as the US pulled out the Paris agreement, French President Macron and Chinese President last week signed a pact to declare the "irreversibility of the Paris Agreement."

The Paris Agreement was signed during ex-President Obama's administration promising a 26-28 per cent in US greenhouse gas emissions by 2025 from 2005 levels, a move which was overturned by Trump last year.

Trump campaigned in 2016 presidential polls on a promise to pull the United States out of the agreement, saying it would hurt the US economy while leaving other big polluters like China to increase emissions. The US was bound by UN rules to wait until November 4, 2019, to file exit papers which was filed last week. 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump speaking at the Economic Club in New York on Tuesday said that countries like "China, India and Russia are doing absolutely nothing to clean up their smokestacks and clean up all of their plants and all of the garbage that they're dropping in the sea floats into Los Angeles".

US President Donald Trump speaking at the Economic Club in New York on Tuesday said that countries like "China, India and Russia are doing absolutely nothing to clean up their smokestacks and clean up all of their plants and all of the garbage that they're dropping in the sea floats into Los Angeles". Trump who pulled the US out of the Paris climate accord last year amid worldwide criticism, said, "We have a relatively small piece of land - the United States. And you compare that to some of the other countries like China, like India, like Russia, like many other countries that absolutely are doing absolutely nothing to clean up their smokestacks and clean up all of their plants and all of the garbage that they're dropping in sea and that floats into Los Angeles, along with other problems that Los Angeles has, by the way." "But when you see this happening, it's - nobody wants to talk about it. They want to talk about our country. We have to do this. We have can't have planes any longer. We can't have cows any longer. We can't have anything." "I said, What about China?" Last week, the US had filed paperwork for the formal exit from the Paris Agreement, a one-year process to walk out of the global pact which aims to fight climate change even as US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo added said that the United States had trimmed its emissions in recent years. Speaking in New York, the US President asserted that he was "very much into climate", adding, "but I want the cleanest air on the planet and I want to have - I have to have clean air-water." Trump declared the Paris Agreement a "disaster", stating that it resulted in "trillions and trillions of dollars" of destruction to America. "And it is so unfair. It doesn't kick in for China until 2030. Russia goes back into the 1990s, where the base year was the dirtiest year ever in the world. India, we are supposed to pay them money because they are a developing nation. I said, "We 're a developing nation, too." Even as the US pulled out the Paris agreement, French President Macron and Chinese President last week signed a pact to declare the "irreversibility of the Paris Agreement." The Paris Agreement was signed during ex-President Obama's administration promising a 26-28 per cent in US greenhouse gas emissions by 2025 from 2005 levels, a move which was overturned by Trump last year. Trump campaigned in 2016 presidential polls on a promise to pull the United States out of the agreement, saying it would hurt the US economy while leaving other big polluters like China to increase emissions. The US was bound by UN rules to wait until November 4, 2019, to file exit papers which was filed last week.

Garbage dropped by China, India and Russia into the sea floats into Los Angeles: Trump

The Trump administration today <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-bolivian-leader-seeks-quick-vote-foes-plan-disruptions-261889">recognised Jeanine Anez</a>, 52, as Bolivia's interim president after ex-president Evo Morales began his life in exile in Mexico.

"The United States applauds Bolivian Senator Jeanine Anez for stepping up as Interim President of State to lead her nation through this democratic transition, under the constitution of Bolivia," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement.

In Mexico on his first day in exile,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-mexico-morales-pledges-to-remain-in-politics-as-bolivia-battles-to-restore-stability-261704"> Evo Morales in a press conference</a> said he was ready to return to &nbsp;"pacify" the country even as police clashed with pro-Morales supporters in Bolivia.

Deputy Senate Speaker Anez had earlier moved to proclaim herself as the interim president amid turmoil in the country - a move which was backed by Bolivia's Constitutional Court.

Anez promised to hold elections in the "shortest possible time" while naming a cabinet.

"There is no coup in Bolivia. There is a constitutional replacement," Anes asserted, adding, "the only coup d'Etat in this country has been by Evo Morales."

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jeanine-anez-declares-herself-bolivia-interim-president-261741/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, Morales speaking in Mexico said that the &nbsp;Organization of American States (OAS) is "in the service of the North American empire", referring to the US.

"The OAS took a political decision, not a technical or legal one, the OAS is in the service of the North American empire," Morales declared.

"We're going to return, sooner or later. The sooner the better, to pacify Bolivia," he added.

Bolivia's has seen weeks of political turmoil after the controversial October 20 election in which Morales was declared the winner. The OAS in an audit had said it had evidence of vote count manipulation as the Opposition rejected the elections.

As political uncertainty spread post-elections, Bolivians clashed with police in La Paz almost everyday leaving at least ten people dead.

"We are doing everything possible to bring everything back to normal," police chief, General Yuri Calderon said as authorities struggle to bring the situation under control post-Morales.

The Trump administration today recognised Jeanine Anez, 52, as Bolivia's interim president after ex-president Evo Morales began his life in exile in Mexico. "The United States applauds Bolivian Senator Jeanine Anez for stepping up as Interim President of State to lead her nation through this democratic transition, under the constitution of Bolivia," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement.

The Trump administration today recognised Jeanine Anez, 52, as Bolivia's interim president after ex-president Evo Morales began his life in exile in Mexico. "The United States applauds Bolivian Senator Jeanine Anez for stepping up as Interim President of State to lead her nation through this democratic transition, under the constitution of Bolivia," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. In Mexico on his first day in exile, Evo Morales in a press conference said he was ready to return to "pacify" the country even as police clashed with pro-Morales supporters in Bolivia. Deputy Senate Speaker Anez had earlier moved to proclaim herself as the interim president amid turmoil in the country - a move which was backed by Bolivia's Constitutional Court. Anez promised to hold elections in the "shortest possible time" while naming a cabinet. "There is no coup in Bolivia. There is a constitutional replacement," Anes asserted, adding, "the only coup d'Etat in this country has been by Evo Morales." Watch Video: Meanwhile, Morales speaking in Mexico said that the Organization of American States (OAS) is "in the service of the North American empire", referring to the US. "The OAS took a political decision, not a technical or legal one, the OAS is in the service of the North American empire," Morales declared. "We're going to return, sooner or later. The sooner the better, to pacify Bolivia," he added. Bolivia's has seen weeks of political turmoil after the controversial October 20 election in which Morales was declared the winner. The OAS in an audit had said it had evidence of vote count manipulation as the Opposition rejected the elections. As political uncertainty spread post-elections, Bolivians clashed with police in La Paz almost everyday leaving at least ten people dead. "We are doing everything possible to bring everything back to normal," police chief, General Yuri Calderon said as authorities struggle to bring the situation under control post-Morales.

US recognises Jeanine Anez as Bolivia's interim president

Palestinian militant group <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-israel-gaza-escalation-rages-for-second-day-261866">Islamic Jihad offered</a> terms on Wednesday for an Egyptian-mediated ceasefire with Israel, saying if these were not met it was prepared to keep up cross-border rocket attacks&nbsp;indefinitely despite a mounting Gaza death toll.

The worst surge in fighting around the Palestinian enclave was sparked on Tuesday when Israel killed Islamic Jihad's top Gaza field commander in an airstrike, accusing him of masterminding a spree of recent attacks and planning more soon.

As Islamic Jihad fighters responded with hundreds of rocket launches that reached as<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strikes-gaza-two-more-palestinians-killed-death-toll-rises-to-18-261808"> far as Tel Aviv and paralysed</a> parts of Israel, it pressed the aerial barrage on the Gaza Strip.

Medics say 26 Palestinians, including at least 14 gunmen and six civilians, have been killed. Dozens have been injured on both sides.

In his first public comments on the fighting, Islamic Jihad leader Zeyad al-Nakhala said a truce could be agreed immediately if Israel accepted the Iranian-backed faction's terms.

These included Israel ending targeted killings of militants, its sometimes lethal response to weekly Gaza protests and steps to ease its blockade on the coastal Palestinian enclave, al-Nakhala, who is based in Beirut, told Al-Mayadeen TV.

Al-Nakhala said he expected to hear Israel's response via Cairo within hours. Should a truce not be agreed, he said, "the (Islamic Jihad armed wing) Jerusalem Brigades is able to manage the battle, and for a long time".

Israel signalled openness only to a quid-pro-quo restraint.

"Quiet will be answered with quiet," Israel's Army Radio quoted an unnamed Israeli government official as saying. "Islamic Jihad wants a ceasefire, and it is thus trying to create a false impression of achievements."

Israel had previously said it sought no escalation in Gaza. Unlike with past rounds of fighting, when Israel held Gaza's dominant Hamas faction responsible for any cross-border attacks, this time Hamas has been spared Israeli retaliation.

Hamas, in turn, has voiced solidarity with Islamic Jihad but has not claimed responsibility for any of the rocket launches.

Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad offered terms on Wednesday for an Egyptian-mediated ceasefire with Israel, saying if these were not met it was prepared to keep up cross-border rocket attacks indefinitely despite a mounting Gaza death toll.

Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad offered terms on Wednesday for an Egyptian-mediated ceasefire with Israel, saying if these were not met it was prepared to keep up cross-border rocket attacks indefinitely despite a mounting Gaza death toll. The worst surge in fighting around the Palestinian enclave was sparked on Tuesday when Israel killed Islamic Jihad's top Gaza field commander in an airstrike, accusing him of masterminding a spree of recent attacks and planning more soon. As Islamic Jihad fighters responded with hundreds of rocket launches that reached as far as Tel Aviv and paralysed parts of Israel, it pressed the aerial barrage on the Gaza Strip. Medics say 26 Palestinians, including at least 14 gunmen and six civilians, have been killed. Dozens have been injured on both sides. In his first public comments on the fighting, Islamic Jihad leader Zeyad al-Nakhala said a truce could be agreed immediately if Israel accepted the Iranian-backed faction's terms. These included Israel ending targeted killings of militants, its sometimes lethal response to weekly Gaza protests and steps to ease its blockade on the coastal Palestinian enclave, al-Nakhala, who is based in Beirut, told Al-Mayadeen TV. Al-Nakhala said he expected to hear Israel's response via Cairo within hours. Should a truce not be agreed, he said, "the (Islamic Jihad armed wing) Jerusalem Brigades is able to manage the battle, and for a long time". Israel signalled openness only to a quid-pro-quo restraint. "Quiet will be answered with quiet," Israel's Army Radio quoted an unnamed Israeli government official as saying. "Islamic Jihad wants a ceasefire, and it is thus trying to create a false impression of achievements." Israel had previously said it sought no escalation in Gaza. Unlike with past rounds of fighting, when Israel held Gaza's dominant Hamas faction responsible for any cross-border attacks, this time Hamas has been spared Israeli retaliation. Hamas, in turn, has voiced solidarity with Islamic Jihad but has not claimed responsibility for any of the rocket launches.

Islamic Jihad offers Egypt-mediated ceasefire terms to Israel as death toll mounts

Russia has begun setting up a helicopter base at a civilian airport in the north-eastern Syrian city of Qamishli, the Russian Defence Ministry's Zvezda TV channel said on Thursday, showing footage of helicopter gunships arriving there.

The new base is protected by Pantsir surface-to-air missile systems and three helicopters, including two Mi-35 gunships and a Mi-8 military transport helicopter, have already been deployed there, with more to follow.

Zvezda broadcast footage of Russian military police protecting the base. Armoured vehicles and ground support crews for the helicopters were also shown, as was a weather station and a small doctor's surgery.

"This is the first group of Russian military helicopters here in northern Syria... It's a historic moment. From this day onwards our aviation group will operate permanently at Qamishli's city airport," said Pavel Remnev, Zvezda's correspondent.

The Russian deployment comes less than a month after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-forces-withdraw-from-key-base-in-northern-syria-257070"> US&nbsp;forces withdrawing</a> from the area were pelted with potatoes by local residents after President Donald Trump abruptly ordered them to pull back from parts of Syria.

Russia has previously started using military helicopters to patrol an area near Syria's border with Turkey in order to protect Russian military police working on the ground there.

The new base will allow them to do so more effectively, Zvezda said.

The patrols are carried out with Turkish forces and are designed to monitor an agreement struck by Moscow and Ankara after Turkey launched an offensive across its border with Syrian rebels in October, seeking to push out Kurdish YPG fighters it views as a national security threat.

Russia has begun setting up a helicopter base at a civilian airport in the north-eastern Syrian city of Qamishli, the Russian Defence Ministry's Zvezda TV channel said on Thursday, showing footage of helicopter gunships arriving there.

Russia has begun setting up a helicopter base at a civilian airport in the north-eastern Syrian city of Qamishli, the Russian Defence Ministry's Zvezda TV channel said on Thursday, showing footage of helicopter gunships arriving there. The new base is protected by Pantsir surface-to-air missile systems and three helicopters, including two Mi-35 gunships and a Mi-8 military transport helicopter, have already been deployed there, with more to follow. Zvezda broadcast footage of Russian military police protecting the base. Armoured vehicles and ground support crews for the helicopters were also shown, as was a weather station and a small doctor's surgery. "This is the first group of Russian military helicopters here in northern Syria... It's a historic moment. From this day onwards our aviation group will operate permanently at Qamishli's city airport," said Pavel Remnev, Zvezda's correspondent. The Russian deployment comes less than a month after US forces withdrawing from the area were pelted with potatoes by local residents after President Donald Trump abruptly ordered them to pull back from parts of Syria. Russia has previously started using military helicopters to patrol an area near Syria's border with Turkey in order to protect Russian military police working on the ground there. The new base will allow them to do so more effectively, Zvezda said. The patrols are carried out with Turkish forces and are designed to monitor an agreement struck by Moscow and Ankara after Turkey launched an offensive across its border with Syrian rebels in October, seeking to push out Kurdish YPG fighters it views as a national security threat.

Russia sets up helicopter base in northern Syria after US exit

Bob and Mike&nbsp;Bryan, the greatest doubles pair in the history of tennis, have announced they will end what they describe as a "magical ride" in&nbsp;2020&nbsp;after&nbsp;one more crack at the&nbsp;US&nbsp;Open.

The 41-year-old Californian twins, famous for their trademark chest-bump celebration, will bid farewell at Flushing Meadows, scene of their Grand Slam debut in 1995.

Playing almost exclusively with each other throughout&nbsp;their 25-year careers, the&nbsp;Bryans captured a professional era record 118 titles, including 16 Grand Slam titles, 39 ATP Masters 1000s and the ATP Finals title four times.

The&nbsp;Bryans also won Olympic gold at London 2012 and were part of the&nbsp;US Davis Cup-winning team in 2007.

Mike claimed two more Grand Slam titles with Jack Sock in 2018&nbsp;after&nbsp;Bob was sidelined with a hip injury.

"Mike and I chose to finish our 2019 season&nbsp;after&nbsp;the&nbsp;US&nbsp;Open, even knowing there was a strong chance we'd qualify for the ATP Finals," Bob said in an ATP statement on Wednesday.

"After&nbsp;much discussion, we decided that it would be best to rest our minds and strengthen our bodies in preparation for&nbsp;2020&nbsp;which will be our final season on the ATP Tour.

"For the last 21 years, we have been so grateful for the opportunity to live&nbsp;out&nbsp;our dreams of playing professional tennis. It has truly been a magical ride."

Bob and Mike Bryan, the greatest doubles pair in the history of tennis, have announced they will end what they describe as a "magical ride" in 2020 after one more crack at the US Open.

Bob and Mike Bryan, the greatest doubles pair in the history of tennis, have announced they will end what they describe as a "magical ride" in 2020 after one more crack at the US Open. The 41-year-old Californian twins, famous for their trademark chest-bump celebration, will bid farewell at Flushing Meadows, scene of their Grand Slam debut in 1995. Playing almost exclusively with each other throughout their 25-year careers, the Bryans captured a professional era record 118 titles, including 16 Grand Slam titles, 39 ATP Masters 1000s and the ATP Finals title four times. The Bryans also won Olympic gold at London 2012 and were part of the US Davis Cup-winning team in 2007. Mike claimed two more Grand Slam titles with Jack Sock in 2018 after Bob was sidelined with a hip injury. "Mike and I chose to finish our 2019 season after the US Open, even knowing there was a strong chance we'd qualify for the ATP Finals," Bob said in an ATP statement on Wednesday. "After much discussion, we decided that it would be best to rest our minds and strengthen our bodies in preparation for 2020 which will be our final season on the ATP Tour. "For the last 21 years, we have been so grateful for the opportunity to live out our dreams of playing professional tennis. It has truly been a magical ride."

Bryan brothers to bow out after 2020 US Open

After the Supreme court dismissed the review petition on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-dismisses-rafale-review-petitions-261965">Rafale deal</a>, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders slammed senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and demanded an apology to him.

Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad lashed at Gandhi for "lying" about the Rafale deal. He said that Rahul not only dragged Dassault and Reliance, the companies that were involved in the agreement, but also former presidents of France.

"Earlier he (Rahul Gandhi) created furore saying that PM Modi gave the deal to Reliance, then Dassault said that decision is taken by them not the&nbsp;Indian government,"&nbsp;Prasad said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ravi Shankar Prasad, BJP: Rahul Gandhi lied in the Parliament that France President Emmanuel Macron told him that the deal can be disclosed. Rahul Gandhi not only used Reliance and Dassault in his lies but also the current and former Presidents of France. (2/2) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleVerdict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleVerdict</a> <a href="https://t.co/AIPjpyvJEU">https://t.co/AIPjpyvJEU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194898502351872002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 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>

JP Nadda, BJP working president also slammed Gandhi and demanded an apology. "Rahul Gandhi and his party tried hard to mislead the country on this issue but the truth prevailed," the BJP working president said.&nbsp;

"Rahul Gandhi should an offer apology&nbsp;to the nation," Nadda demanded.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh did not take any names but said that matters related to defence should not be politicised. He also slammed Congress party for&nbsp;maligning the image of PM Modi and demanded an apology.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rajnath Singh: I think matters related to defence preparedness shouldn't be politicised,unfortunately some people did it for personal benefits.They also tried to malign Prime Minister.I would like to say that it was done especially by some senior Congress leaders. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleVerdict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleVerdict</a> <a href="https://t.co/ioLt0G62NL">https://t.co/ioLt0G62NL</a> <a href="https://t.co/oMqMHrgC6O">pic.twitter.com/oMqMHrgC6O</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194887584893136898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 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>

The apex court earlier today rejected the review petitions that challenged its verdict passed on December 14, 2018 in the 36 Rafale jets deal. The review petition questioned the procurement of Rafale jets from the French government.&nbsp;

The top court also closed a contempt petition filed by senior BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi against Rahul Gandhi for his comments of "chowkidar chor hai" attributing to PM Narendra Modi. Rahul Gandhi apologised for his comments to the Indian PM.

"Rahul Gandhi needs to be more careful in the future. It was unfortunate," a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph said while announcing their verdict.

"The Supreme Court has said that he (Rahul Gandhi) is a contemptner and a better sense should prevail. Keeping that in mind, a better methodology of doing politics should prevail and Congress should know how not to be intolerant of others who are doing better than them," Lekhi said after 
the apex court's judgment.

After the Supreme court dismissed the review petition on Rafale deal, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders slammed senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and demanded an apology to him.

After the Supreme court dismissed the review petition on Rafale deal, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders slammed senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and demanded an apology to him. Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad lashed at Gandhi for "lying" about the Rafale deal. He said that Rahul not only dragged Dassault and Reliance, the companies that were involved in the agreement, but also former presidents of France. "Earlier he (Rahul Gandhi) created furore saying that PM Modi gave the deal to Reliance, then Dassault said that decision is taken by them not the Indian government," Prasad said. Ravi Shankar Prasad, BJP: Rahul Gandhi lied in the Parliament that France President Emmanuel Macron told him that the deal can be disclosed. Rahul Gandhi not only used Reliance and Dassault in his lies but also the current and former Presidents of France. (2/2) #RafaleVerdict https://t.co/AIPjpyvJEU — ANI (@ANI) November 14, 2019 × JP Nadda, BJP working president also slammed Gandhi and demanded an apology. "Rahul Gandhi and his party tried hard to mislead the country on this issue but the truth prevailed," the BJP working president said. "Rahul Gandhi should an offer apology to the nation," Nadda demanded. Defence minister Rajnath Singh did not take any names but said that matters related to defence should not be politicised. He also slammed Congress party for maligning the image of PM Modi and demanded an apology. Rajnath Singh: I think matters related to defence preparedness shouldn't be politicised,unfortunately some people did it for personal benefits.They also tried to malign Prime Minister.I would like to say that it was done especially by some senior Congress leaders. #RafaleVerdict https://t.co/ioLt0G62NL pic.twitter.com/oMqMHrgC6O — ANI (@ANI) November 14, 2019 × The apex court earlier today rejected the review petitions that challenged its verdict passed on December 14, 2018 in the 36 Rafale jets deal. The review petition questioned the procurement of Rafale jets from the French government. The top court also closed a contempt petition filed by senior BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi against Rahul Gandhi for his comments of "chowkidar chor hai" attributing to PM Narendra Modi. Rahul Gandhi apologised for his comments to the Indian PM. "Rahul Gandhi needs to be more careful in the future. It was unfortunate," a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph said while announcing their verdict. "The Supreme Court has said that he (Rahul Gandhi) is a contemptner and a better sense should prevail. Keeping that in mind, a better methodology of doing politics should prevail and Congress should know how not to be intolerant of others who are doing better than them," Lekhi said after the apex court's judgment.

BJP slams Rahul Gandhi over Rafale claims after SC verdict, demands apology

Asian&nbsp;stocks&nbsp;fell on Thursday after soft economic data in China and Japan showed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../trade-truce-unlikely-in-2020-but-us-recession- fears-recede-economists-reuters-poll-261987">trade war</a> between Beijing and Washington hitting&nbsp;growth&nbsp;in some of the world's biggest economies.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan fell 0.3 per cent. Japan's Nikkei stock index fell further, dropping 0.8 per cent.

Australia's S&amp;P/ASX200 wiped earlier gains to close 0.5 per cent&nbsp;higher, while Shanghai blue chips trod water, supported by expectations the gloomy figures would add to the case for stimulus.

European stock futures point to a flat open after recent rises. US&nbsp;futures were down 0.1 per cent, following a record-high close on the S&amp;P 500 on Wednesday.

China's&nbsp;industrial production&nbsp;growth&nbsp;slowed sharply in October, with the 4.7 per cent&nbsp;year-on-year rise well below forecasts for 5.4 per cent. Investment&nbsp;growth&nbsp;hit a record low and retail sales also missed expectations.

"The weakness in investment and production would suggest that confidence is down," said Shane Oliver, chief economist at AMP Capital in Sydney.

"It puts more pressure on Chinese authorities to come to a deal with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../garbage-dropped-by-china-india-and-russia- into-the-sea-floats-into-los-angeles-trump-261937">Donald Trump</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../trump-says-china-trade-deal-close-but-dashes- hopes-for-signing-details-261767"> on trade</a>, just as President Trump's desire to be re-elected puts pressure on him to come to a deal."

The weak figures also come as market confidence toward a resolution weakens, with a new Reuters poll showing most economists do not expect Washington and Beijing to strike a permanent truce over the coming year.

Trump offered no update on the progress of negotiations in a policy speech on Tuesday. The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that talks had snagged on farm purchases.

Meanwhile, the&nbsp;global&nbsp;fallout from the dispute is widening.

Data due at 0700 GMT will reveal whether Germany has entered a technical recession, as forecast.

Japan's economic&nbsp;growth&nbsp;hit its slowest pace in a year in the third quarter as soft demand knocked exports.

"Looking around the region, you've had some near misses of recession - Korea's been one, Singapore's also been one and you've got Hong Kong in a recession at the moment," said Sean Darby,&nbsp;global&nbsp;equity strategist at Jefferies in Hong Kong.

"So it's not great. It's not a cycle that is not leaving any scars," he said.

Worries about spiralling violence as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../protesters-block-central-hong-kong-streets-as- chaos-grips-city-261782">anti-government protests</a> intensify in Hong Kong have also soured investor sentiment.

Protesters paralysed parts of Hong Kong for a fourth day on Thursday, forcing school closures and blocking highways and other transport links in a marked escalation of unrest in the financial hub.

Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 0.8 per cent on&nbsp;Thursday to a fresh one-month low.

In currency&nbsp;markets, safe havens such as the Japanese yen and Swiss franc held on to gains.

The yen was quoted at 108.70 per dollar, close to a one-week high. The Swiss franc traded at 0.9900 versus the greenback, near the highest in more than a week.

The Australian dollar skidded to a one-month low on Thursday after a worryingly weak reading on employment re-ignited speculation about another cut in interest rates.

Brent crude futures rose 0.6 per cent&nbsp;to $62.76 a barrel while US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 0.63 per cent&nbsp;to $57.48 per barrel.

The yield on benchmark 10-year Treasury notes rose to 1.8652 percent&nbsp;compared with its US&nbsp;close of 1.869 per cent&nbsp;on Wednesday.

Asian stocks fell on Thursday after soft economic data in China and Japan showed the trade war between Beijing and Washington hitting growth in some of the world's biggest economies.

Asian stocks fell on Thursday after soft economic data in China and Japan showed the trade war between Beijing and Washington hitting growth in some of the world's biggest economies. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan fell 0.3 per cent. Japan's Nikkei stock index fell further, dropping 0.8 per cent. Australia's S&P/ASX200 wiped earlier gains to close 0.5 per cent higher, while Shanghai blue chips trod water, supported by expectations the gloomy figures would add to the case for stimulus. European stock futures point to a flat open after recent rises. US futures were down 0.1 per cent, following a record-high close on the S&P 500 on Wednesday. China's industrial production growth slowed sharply in October, with the 4.7 per cent year-on-year rise well below forecasts for 5.4 per cent. Investment growth hit a record low and retail sales also missed expectations. "The weakness in investment and production would suggest that confidence is down," said Shane Oliver, chief economist at AMP Capital in Sydney. "It puts more pressure on Chinese authorities to come to a deal with Donald Trump on trade, just as President Trump's desire to be re-elected puts pressure on him to come to a deal." The weak figures also come as market confidence toward a resolution weakens, with a new Reuters poll showing most economists do not expect Washington and Beijing to strike a permanent truce over the coming year. Trump offered no update on the progress of negotiations in a policy speech on Tuesday. The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that talks had snagged on farm purchases. Meanwhile, the global fallout from the dispute is widening. Data due at 0700 GMT will reveal whether Germany has entered a technical recession, as forecast. Japan's economic growth hit its slowest pace in a year in the third quarter as soft demand knocked exports. "Looking around the region, you've had some near misses of recession - Korea's been one, Singapore's also been one and you've got Hong Kong in a recession at the moment," said Sean Darby, global equity strategist at Jefferies in Hong Kong. "So it's not great. It's not a cycle that is not leaving any scars," he said. Worries about spiralling violence as anti-government protests intensify in Hong Kong have also soured investor sentiment. Protesters paralysed parts of Hong Kong for a fourth day on Thursday, forcing school closures and blocking highways and other transport links in a marked escalation of unrest in the financial hub. Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 0.8 per cent on Thursday to a fresh one-month low. In currency markets, safe havens such as the Japanese yen and Swiss franc held on to gains. The yen was quoted at 108.70 per dollar, close to a one-week high. The Swiss franc traded at 0.9900 versus the greenback, near the highest in more than a week. The Australian dollar skidded to a one-month low on Thursday after a worryingly weak reading on employment re-ignited speculation about another cut in interest rates. Brent crude futures rose 0.6 per cent to $62.76 a barrel while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 0.63 per cent to $57.48 per barrel. The yield on benchmark 10-year Treasury notes rose to 1.8652 percent compared with its US close of 1.869 per cent on Wednesday.

Asian stocks retreat as China's growth slowdown deepens

Britain is threatening to deport European Union citizens if they fail to apply on time for a new immigration status after Brexit and will only grant leniency in exceptional circumstances, according to people briefed on the plans.

In previously unreported guidelines, the government has drafted a narrow list of exemptions, such as those with a physical or mental incapacity, or children whose parents fail to apply on their behalf, the people said.

The government is introducing the biggest shake-up of Britain's border controls in decades, ending the priority given to EU migrants over those from other countries. Most EU citizens will need some form of prior permission from the government to remain in Britain.

The government has often been accused of failing to establish who is living in Britain legally or illegally. In what became known last year as the Windrush scandal, thousands of Caribbean migrants were wrongly denied basic rights. Some lost jobs, others were wrongly deported.

Government figures show just over half of the estimated 3.5 million European Union citizens living in Britain have received the new legal status ahead of the December&nbsp;31, 2020 deadline.

Immigration lawyers say they were invited to the Home Office a few months ago to read the government's draft immigration guidelines, which had a section on what will happen to EU nationals who fail to apply on time. The government has not said when it will publish the information.

A general election is being held on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-set-for-third-election-in-four-years-to-try-to-break-brexit-gridlock-258692">December&nbsp;12</a> and if the Conservative government loses, the proposals could be changed.

"We are looking at a fairly high threshold, saying 'I forgot' won’t be good enough," one of the lawyers said. "If someone fails to apply before the deadline they will have no lawful residence. Then the process to deport them will kick in."

The Home Office said in a statement individuals who miss the deadline through no fault of their own will still be able to apply for lawful status.

Until now the government has said officials will do everything they can to grant EU nationals the right to remain and steered away from focusing on what would happen to those who fail to apply on time.

Campaign groups fear that many EU citizens lawfully in the country could fall through the net and plans to have all EU nationals registered by the end of December next year are too ambitious.

A study in March said that most historic take-up rates for large-population registrations ran from less than 20 per cent&nbsp;in the UK to 43 per centr&nbsp;in the United States and 77 per cent&nbsp;in Spain. The only scheme that came near to a 100 per cent&nbsp;take-up was an ID card system in India.

Maike Bohn, who works for the 3million group, which supports the rights of EU citizens, says the most vulnerable in society such as the elderly, those not in regular employment and victims of domestic violence may fail to apply.

"We are massively concerned about this. It’s our biggest worry," she said. "I meet people on almost daily basis who are aware of the scheme, but think they don't need to apply."

The application process in Britain has come under fire, with people who have lived in the country for decades saying they face an inflexible bureaucratic system.

Even if the application scheme in Britain achieved 95 per cent success, about 175,000 people would be left out.

After the deadline, EU nationals who have failed to apply face being gradually transformed from legal residents into undocumented migrants, and the government has been explicit about the threat of deportation.

The Home Office has said EU nationals who fail to apply on time "will be liable to enforcement action, detention and removal as an immigration offender".

Other migrants say their difficulties with the British immigration system are a warning to EU nationals.

Hari Babu, an Indian migrant, said he faces deportation because his accountant made a mistake on a tax return and he is being punished under a law designed, in part, to deal with people who are a threat to national security.

For the past three and a half years, the government has held Babu's passport, preventing him from working or visiting his grandmother in India.

The Home Office said applications were considered on their merits and indefinite leave to remain would be refused if false representations were made or false documents or information submitted.

Babu moved to Britain in 2007 to study for a masters degree and then had a variety of jobs, including as a recruitment manager at the upmarket clothing company Thomas Pink.

But when he applied for permanent residency the government said he had underpaid about 1,000 pounds in tax. Babu said it was an error by his accountant and when rectified there was no additional tax to pay.

"I have been depressed and barely slept for last three years," he said. "I have no doubt people from the EU will face similar problems."

Britain is threatening to deport European Union citizens if they fail to apply on time for a new immigration status after Brexit and will only grant leniency in exceptional circumstances, according to people briefed on the plans.

Britain is threatening to deport European Union citizens if they fail to apply on time for a new immigration status after Brexit and will only grant leniency in exceptional circumstances, according to people briefed on the plans. In previously unreported guidelines, the government has drafted a narrow list of exemptions, such as those with a physical or mental incapacity, or children whose parents fail to apply on their behalf, the people said. The government is introducing the biggest shake-up of Britain's border controls in decades, ending the priority given to EU migrants over those from other countries. Most EU citizens will need some form of prior permission from the government to remain in Britain. The government has often been accused of failing to establish who is living in Britain legally or illegally. In what became known last year as the Windrush scandal, thousands of Caribbean migrants were wrongly denied basic rights. Some lost jobs, others were wrongly deported. Government figures show just over half of the estimated 3.5 million European Union citizens living in Britain have received the new legal status ahead of the December 31, 2020 deadline. Immigration lawyers say they were invited to the Home Office a few months ago to read the government's draft immigration guidelines, which had a section on what will happen to EU nationals who fail to apply on time. The government has not said when it will publish the information. A general election is being held on December 12 and if the Conservative government loses, the proposals could be changed. "We are looking at a fairly high threshold, saying 'I forgot' won’t be good enough," one of the lawyers said. "If someone fails to apply before the deadline they will have no lawful residence. Then the process to deport them will kick in." The Home Office said in a statement individuals who miss the deadline through no fault of their own will still be able to apply for lawful status. Until now the government has said officials will do everything they can to grant EU nationals the right to remain and steered away from focusing on what would happen to those who fail to apply on time. Campaign groups fear that many EU citizens lawfully in the country could fall through the net and plans to have all EU nationals registered by the end of December next year are too ambitious. A study in March said that most historic take-up rates for large-population registrations ran from less than 20 per cent in the UK to 43 per centr in the United States and 77 per cent in Spain. The only scheme that came near to a 100 per cent take-up was an ID card system in India. Maike Bohn, who works for the 3million group, which supports the rights of EU citizens, says the most vulnerable in society such as the elderly, those not in regular employment and victims of domestic violence may fail to apply. "We are massively concerned about this. It’s our biggest worry," she said. "I meet people on almost daily basis who are aware of the scheme, but think they don't need to apply." The application process in Britain has come under fire, with people who have lived in the country for decades saying they face an inflexible bureaucratic system. Even if the application scheme in Britain achieved 95 per cent success, about 175,000 people would be left out. After the deadline, EU nationals who have failed to apply face being gradually transformed from legal residents into undocumented migrants, and the government has been explicit about the threat of deportation. The Home Office has said EU nationals who fail to apply on time "will be liable to enforcement action, detention and removal as an immigration offender". Other migrants say their difficulties with the British immigration system are a warning to EU nationals. Hari Babu, an Indian migrant, said he faces deportation because his accountant made a mistake on a tax return and he is being punished under a law designed, in part, to deal with people who are a threat to national security. For the past three and a half years, the government has held Babu's passport, preventing him from working or visiting his grandmother in India. The Home Office said applications were considered on their merits and indefinite leave to remain would be refused if false representations were made or false documents or information submitted. Babu moved to Britain in 2007 to study for a masters degree and then had a variety of jobs, including as a recruitment manager at the upmarket clothing company Thomas Pink. But when he applied for permanent residency the government said he had underpaid about 1,000 pounds in tax. Babu said it was an error by his accountant and when rectified there was no additional tax to pay. "I have been depressed and barely slept for last three years," he said. "I have no doubt people from the EU will face similar problems."

Britain threatens to deport European Union citizens failing to comply residency deadline

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has ordered the release on bail of more than 70 opposition activists arrested in recent weeks and accused of plotting to overthrow the government, he said on Thursday.

Hun Sen, who has ruled Cambodia for more than 34 years, has been under increasing international pressure to improve his human rights record, with the European Union threatening the withdrawal of important trade benefits.

"There are over 70 people, please hurry up work on this case so that these brothers can be released on bail," Hun Sen said in a speech at a new cement factory in the southern province of Kampot, in comments directed at judicial authorities.

Cambodia arrested dozens of people in the run-up to last Saturday when veteran opposition figure Sam Rainsy had said he would return from self-imposed exile to rally opposition to authoritarian ruler Hun Sen.

But Sam Rainsy did not return to Cambodia, saying he had been stopped in Paris from boarding a flight to neighbouring Thailand. He instead flew to Malaysia before arriving in Indonesia on Thursday.

On Saturday, Cambodia also relaxed the house arrest conditions on opposition leader Kem Sokha, who was arrested on treason charges more than two years ago. He says the charges are ridiculous and has called for them to be dropped.

Kem Sokha and Sam Rainsy co-founded the Cambodia National Rescue Party, which was banned in 2017. By then, Sam Rainsy had flown into self-exile in France after a defamation conviction and other charges he says are political.

On Tuesday, the European Union voiced concern at human rights in Cambodia as it gave a one-month deadline to authorities to respond to a report on its investigation before deciding whether to suspend trade benefits.

Hun Sen said that in addition to ordering the release of the opposition activists, he had ordered the Justice Ministry to withdraw arrest warrants for other opposition activists who had fled to Thailand or were in hiding in Cambodia.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has ordered the release on bail of more than 70 opposition activists arrested in recent weeks and accused of plotting to overthrow the government, he said on Thursday.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has ordered the release on bail of more than 70 opposition activists arrested in recent weeks and accused of plotting to overthrow the government, he said on Thursday. Hun Sen, who has ruled Cambodia for more than 34 years, has been under increasing international pressure to improve his human rights record, with the European Union threatening the withdrawal of important trade benefits. "There are over 70 people, please hurry up work on this case so that these brothers can be released on bail," Hun Sen said in a speech at a new cement factory in the southern province of Kampot, in comments directed at judicial authorities. Cambodia arrested dozens of people in the run-up to last Saturday when veteran opposition figure Sam Rainsy had said he would return from self-imposed exile to rally opposition to authoritarian ruler Hun Sen. But Sam Rainsy did not return to Cambodia, saying he had been stopped in Paris from boarding a flight to neighbouring Thailand. He instead flew to Malaysia before arriving in Indonesia on Thursday. On Saturday, Cambodia also relaxed the house arrest conditions on opposition leader Kem Sokha, who was arrested on treason charges more than two years ago. He says the charges are ridiculous and has called for them to be dropped. Kem Sokha and Sam Rainsy co-founded the Cambodia National Rescue Party, which was banned in 2017. By then, Sam Rainsy had flown into self-exile in France after a defamation conviction and other charges he says are political. On Tuesday, the European Union voiced concern at human rights in Cambodia as it gave a one-month deadline to authorities to respond to a report on its investigation before deciding whether to suspend trade benefits. Hun Sen said that in addition to ordering the release of the opposition activists, he had ordered the Justice Ministry to withdraw arrest warrants for other opposition activists who had fled to Thailand or were in hiding in Cambodia.

Cambodian Prime Minister orders to free more than 70 opposition activists on bail

Debutant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-tsitsipas-gets-win-he-craved-over-medvedev-261546">Stefanos Tsitsipas</a> crushed defending champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-alexander-zverev-tastes-first-victory-over-rafael-nadal-261539">Alexander Zverev</a> 6-3 6-2 on Wednesday to book his place in the last four of the&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Finals&nbsp;with a match to spare.

The 21-year-old, the first Greek player to qualify for the elite eight-man season-ender, backed up his opening round-robin win over Daniil Medvedev with another virtuoso performance at the O2 Arena and is yet to lose a set.

His emphatic victory secured a top-two place in the group and left Zverev, world number one Rafael Nadal and Medvedev scrapping to join him in Saturday's semi-finals.

A year ago Tsitsipas was winning the NextGen title in Milan -&nbsp;the&nbsp;ATP's showcase event for up-and-coming players -&nbsp;and in his two matches so far in London, he has bolstered the impression that he has the game to start collecting Grand Slam titles.

His swashbuckling all-court game, with a booming serve, aggressive groundstrokes, deft volleys and silky movement have made him an instant crowd favourite at the O2 Arena.

All those weapons were on display against Zverev in what was the youngest, in terms of combined age, match at the&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Finals&nbsp;since Andy Murray played Juan Martin del Potro in 2009.

Zverev's last three matches at the O2 were straight-sets victories over Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Nadal -- a trio with 55 Grand Slam titles between them.

But the form of Monday's group-stage win over Nadal deserted him as Tsitsipas, with whom he is said to have a frosty relationship, beat him for the fourth time in five matches.

Tsitsipas broke in the eighth game when Zverev opted to follow in a weak second serve and made a mess of a low volley.

From that point on it was one-way traffic.

Zverev's level tailed off alarmingly in the second set and Tsitsipas wrapped things up with an ace.

Tsitsipas later revealed he had needed a painkilling injection in a foot injury.

Yet despite having already reached the semis, he will not take his foot off the gas against Nadal on Friday when he could knock the Spaniard out.

"I'm going to give it my all. I'm going to try to give my soul, and I think it's also a very good challenge for me in order to prepare for more difficult matches in the semi-finals," he said. "It's going to educate me, and I'm going to try to get and absorb as much as I can from that."

Debutant Stefanos Tsitsipas crushed defending champion Alexander Zverev 6-3 6-2 on Wednesday to book his place in the last four of the ATP Finals with a match to spare.

Debutant Stefanos Tsitsipas crushed defending champion Alexander Zverev 6-3 6-2 on Wednesday to book his place in the last four of the ATP Finals with a match to spare. The 21-year-old, the first Greek player to qualify for the elite eight-man season-ender, backed up his opening round-robin win over Daniil Medvedev with another virtuoso performance at the O2 Arena and is yet to lose a set. His emphatic victory secured a top-two place in the group and left Zverev, world number one Rafael Nadal and Medvedev scrapping to join him in Saturday's semi-finals. A year ago Tsitsipas was winning the NextGen title in Milan - the ATP's showcase event for up-and-coming players - and in his two matches so far in London, he has bolstered the impression that he has the game to start collecting Grand Slam titles. His swashbuckling all-court game, with a booming serve, aggressive groundstrokes, deft volleys and silky movement have made him an instant crowd favourite at the O2 Arena. All those weapons were on display against Zverev in what was the youngest, in terms of combined age, match at the ATP Finals since Andy Murray played Juan Martin del Potro in 2009. Zverev's last three matches at the O2 were straight-sets victories over Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Nadal -- a trio with 55 Grand Slam titles between them. But the form of Monday's group-stage win over Nadal deserted him as Tsitsipas, with whom he is said to have a frosty relationship, beat him for the fourth time in five matches. Tsitsipas broke in the eighth game when Zverev opted to follow in a weak second serve and made a mess of a low volley. From that point on it was one-way traffic. Zverev's level tailed off alarmingly in the second set and Tsitsipas wrapped things up with an ace. Tsitsipas later revealed he had needed a painkilling injection in a foot injury. Yet despite having already reached the semis, he will not take his foot off the gas against Nadal on Friday when he could knock the Spaniard out. "I'm going to give it my all. I'm going to try to give my soul, and I think it's also a very good challenge for me in order to prepare for more difficult matches in the semi-finals," he said. "It's going to educate me, and I'm going to try to get and absorb as much as I can from that."

Tsitsipas thrashes Zverev to reach ATP semis

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.