The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-impeachment-row-us-senate-in-stalemate-over-how-to-proceed-272003">White&nbsp;House</a>&nbsp;sent to Congress on Saturday&nbsp;formal&nbsp;notification of Friday's US&nbsp;drone&nbsp;strike&nbsp;that killed a top Iranian general,&nbsp;amid&nbsp;complaints&nbsp;from&nbsp;Democrats&nbsp;that President Donald Trump did not notify&nbsp;lawmakers&nbsp;or seek advance approval for the attack.

The US&nbsp;strike&nbsp;that killed Iranian military commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-respond-to-soleimani-killing-any-time-in-any-manner-foreign-minister-zarif-272013">Qassem Soleimani</a> in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;has caused a dramatic rise in tensions between Iran and the United States and its allies.

The classified notification was sent under a 1973 US&nbsp;law called the War Powers Act, which requires the administration to notify Congress within 48 hours of committing armed forces to military action or imminent actions.

White&nbsp;House&nbsp;national security adviser <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-calls-for-positive-offensive-measures-to-ensure-safety-270976">Robert O'Brien</a> confirmed the&nbsp;notice&nbsp;had been sent and told Fox News on Saturday there were numerous legal grounds for the attack. He said Justice Department lawyers had signed off on the plan.

"This was an absolute legal operation," O'Brien said. "We feel very good about the legal basis for this military operation."

House&nbsp;of Representatives Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/treasurys-mnuchin-to-head-us-delegation-to-davos-conclave-271625">Nancy Pelosi</a>, a Democrat, said it raised more questions than it answered.

"This document prompts serious and urgent questions about the timing, manner and justification of the Administration's decision to engage in hostilities against Iran," Pelosi said in a statement.

She said the "highly unusual" decision to classify the entire document compounded her concerns and "suggests that the Congress and the American people are being left in the dark about our national security."

A senior Democratic aide described the notification as "brief and insufficient."

In the notification, Trump's administration was expected to have explained the circumstances, the authority under which the action was taken and the expected scope and duration of the military involvement. The&nbsp;White&nbsp;House&nbsp;declined to comment.

Senator <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/uk-labour-party-must-talk-values-to-win-back-the-asian-community-270978">Bernie Sanders</a>, a contender for the Democratic nomination to run against Trump in November's presidential election, said on Saturday that Congress must take immediate steps to restrain the president "from&nbsp;plunging our nation into yet another endless war."

Senator Elizabeth Warren, another Democratic presidential candidate, told reporters on Saturday that Trump has taken the United States "to the brink of war" and called his actions "reckless. He evidently has no plan."

Pelosi has said the&nbsp;strike&nbsp;in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">Baghdad</a> was conducted without specific authorization&nbsp;from&nbsp;Congress and "without the consultation of the Congress."

On Saturday she described the administration's military engagement as "provocative, escalatory and disproportionate" and said it put US&nbsp;citizens, troops and their allies in danger.

The Pentagon on Friday briefed staff members&nbsp;from&nbsp;the&nbsp;House&nbsp;Armed Services Committee and Senate Armed Services Committee on the attack.

On Friday, Democratic US&nbsp;Senator Tim Kaine introduced a resolution to force a debate and vote in Congress to prevent further escalation of hostilities with Iran.

Republicans in Congress have generally backed Trump's action. Senate Majority Leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/treasurys-mnuchin-to-head-us-delegation-to-davos-conclave-271625">Mitch McConnell</a> said on Friday that "no man alive was more directly responsible for the deaths of more American service members than Qassem Soleimani."

The White House sent to Congress on Saturday formal notification of Friday's US drone strike that killed a top Iranian general, amid complaints from Democrats that President Donald Trump did not notify lawmakers or seek advance approval for the attack.

The White House sent to Congress on Saturday formal notification of Friday's US drone strike that killed a top Iranian general, amid complaints from Democrats that President Donald Trump did not notify lawmakers or seek advance approval for the attack. The US strike that killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani in Iraq has caused a dramatic rise in tensions between Iran and the United States and its allies. The classified notification was sent under a 1973 US law called the War Powers Act, which requires the administration to notify Congress within 48 hours of committing armed forces to military action or imminent actions. White House national security adviser Robert O'Brien confirmed the notice had been sent and told Fox News on Saturday there were numerous legal grounds for the attack. He said Justice Department lawyers had signed off on the plan. "This was an absolute legal operation," O'Brien said. "We feel very good about the legal basis for this military operation." House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said it raised more questions than it answered. "This document prompts serious and urgent questions about the timing, manner and justification of the Administration's decision to engage in hostilities against Iran," Pelosi said in a statement. She said the "highly unusual" decision to classify the entire document compounded her concerns and "suggests that the Congress and the American people are being left in the dark about our national security." A senior Democratic aide described the notification as "brief and insufficient." In the notification, Trump's administration was expected to have explained the circumstances, the authority under which the action was taken and the expected scope and duration of the military involvement. The White House declined to comment. Senator Bernie Sanders, a contender for the Democratic nomination to run against Trump in November's presidential election, said on Saturday that Congress must take immediate steps to restrain the president "from plunging our nation into yet another endless war." Senator Elizabeth Warren, another Democratic presidential candidate, told reporters on Saturday that Trump has taken the United States "to the brink of war" and called his actions "reckless. He evidently has no plan." Pelosi has said the strike in Baghdad was conducted without specific authorization from Congress and "without the consultation of the Congress." On Saturday she described the administration's military engagement as "provocative, escalatory and disproportionate" and said it put US citizens, troops and their allies in danger. The Pentagon on Friday briefed staff members from the House Armed Services Committee and Senate Armed Services Committee on the attack. On Friday, Democratic US Senator Tim Kaine introduced a resolution to force a debate and vote in Congress to prevent further escalation of hostilities with Iran. Republicans in Congress have generally backed Trump's action. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said on Friday that "no man alive was more directly responsible for the deaths of more American service members than Qassem Soleimani."

White House gives lawmakers formal notice of Iraq strike amid complaints from Democrats

A dangerous fire flared up in&nbsp;southeastern&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;on Sunday even as cooler conditions elsewhere allowed authorities to begin assessing the&nbsp;damage&nbsp;from heatwave-spurred blazes that swept through two states on Saturday.

Officials told residents and others in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-wildfires-developing-their-own-weather-systems-authorities-272116">New&nbsp;South Wales</a> (NSW) state town of Eden to leave immediately and head north if they did not have a&nbsp;bushfire&nbsp;response plan.

"If your plan is to leave, or you are not prepared, leave towards Merimbula or Pambula," the Rural Fire Service said in an alert.

Tens of thousands of homes in both NSW and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-will-never-go-back-traumatised-bushfire-evacuees-land-in-melbourne-272142">Victoria</a> states were without power on Sunday as a large-scale military and police effort continued to provide supplies and evacuate thousands of people who have been trapped for days in coastal towns by the fires.

Initial estimates put&nbsp;damaged or destroyed properties in the hundreds, but authorities said the mass evacuations by residents of at-risk areas appear to have prevented the major loss of life. Twenty-four people have been killed since the start of this year's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-calls-in-reserve-forces-to-tackle-bushfire-crisis-272029">wildfire season</a>.

Sunday's cooler temperatures and light rain forecast in some coastal areas in coming days could bring some relief, but officials said that would not be enough to bring the almost 200 fires still burning under control.

Fire officials said the next major flashpoint would come later in the week, but it was too early to gauge the likely severity of the threat.

"The weather activity we're seeing, the extent and spread of the fires, the speed at which they're going, the way in which they are attacking communities who have never ever seen fire before is unprecedented," NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said.

Thousands of people have been evacuated from coastal towns at the peak of the summer holiday season, in one of the biggest coordinated operations since the evacuation of Darwin after Cyclone Tracy flattened the northern city in 1974.

Australia&nbsp;has been battling blazes across much of its east coast for months, with experts saying climate change has been a major factor in a three-year drought that has left much of the country's bushland tinder-dry and susceptible to fires.

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-defers-trip-to-india-japan-as-bushfire-crisis-looms-272011">Scott Morrison</a> said Singapore and Papua&nbsp;New&nbsp;Guinea have made offers of military support;&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand was sending an additional three Air Force helicopters and crews, two Army Combat Engineer Sections and a command element to support&nbsp;Australian Defence efforts.

In the Southern Highlands region south of Sydney, a&nbsp;new&nbsp;fire was burning out of control after the winds helped drive an existing blaze to jump the Shoalhaven and Kangaroo rivers.

Another fire near the southern coastal town of Eden was at an Emergency level, and the ABC reported police have warned people should leave for evacuation centres.

Five fires in Victoria had Evacuate Now or Emergency Level warnings.

Haze from the fires was turning skies orange in&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand; police there asked people to not call the emergency phone number.

The death of a 47-year old man who was defending a friend's rural property in NSW took the national toll this season to 24. NSW <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-dead-several-missing-as-australia-counts-the-cost-of-devastating-bushfires-271335">Premier Berejiklian</a> said there was no one unaccounted for in NSW; Victorian authorities said seven people were unaccounted for in Victoria.

The federal government on Saturday announced an unprecedented call up of army reservists to support firefighters as well other resources including a third navy ship equipped for disaster and humanitarian relief. It also announced the creation of a federal&nbsp;bushfires response agency.&nbsp;

RFS Commissioner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-firefighters-get-brief-reprieve-as-death-toll-rises-272175">Fitzsimmons</a> criticised the government for not informing him of its policy proposal, saying he found out about it from the media and it created confusion on one of the busiest days ever for fighting fires.

PM Morrison faced criticism for a video he posted on social media outlining how the government is tackling the fires. Morrison has been under sustained attack handling of the crisis after he jetted out for a family holiday in Hawaii. He apologised and returned early but was heckled and snubbed when he toured fire-hit regions in recent days.

More than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land has been burnt this fire season. Almost 1,500 homes have been destroyed in NSW state alone.

A dangerous fire flared up in southeastern Australia on Sunday even as cooler conditions elsewhere allowed authorities to begin assessing the damage from heatwave-spurred blazes that swept through two states on Saturday.

A dangerous fire flared up in southeastern Australia on Sunday even as cooler conditions elsewhere allowed authorities to begin assessing the damage from heatwave-spurred blazes that swept through two states on Saturday. Officials told residents and others in the New South Wales (NSW) state town of Eden to leave immediately and head north if they did not have a bushfire response plan. "If your plan is to leave, or you are not prepared, leave towards Merimbula or Pambula," the Rural Fire Service said in an alert. Tens of thousands of homes in both NSW and Victoria states were without power on Sunday as a large-scale military and police effort continued to provide supplies and evacuate thousands of people who have been trapped for days in coastal towns by the fires. Initial estimates put damaged or destroyed properties in the hundreds, but authorities said the mass evacuations by residents of at-risk areas appear to have prevented the major loss of life. Twenty-four people have been killed since the start of this year's wildfire season. Sunday's cooler temperatures and light rain forecast in some coastal areas in coming days could bring some relief, but officials said that would not be enough to bring the almost 200 fires still burning under control. Fire officials said the next major flashpoint would come later in the week, but it was too early to gauge the likely severity of the threat. "The weather activity we're seeing, the extent and spread of the fires, the speed at which they're going, the way in which they are attacking communities who have never ever seen fire before is unprecedented," NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said. Thousands of people have been evacuated from coastal towns at the peak of the summer holiday season, in one of the biggest coordinated operations since the evacuation of Darwin after Cyclone Tracy flattened the northern city in 1974. Australia has been battling blazes across much of its east coast for months, with experts saying climate change has been a major factor in a three-year drought that has left much of the country's bushland tinder-dry and susceptible to fires. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Singapore and Papua New Guinea have made offers of military support; New Zealand was sending an additional three Air Force helicopters and crews, two Army Combat Engineer Sections and a command element to support Australian Defence efforts. In the Southern Highlands region south of Sydney, a new fire was burning out of control after the winds helped drive an existing blaze to jump the Shoalhaven and Kangaroo rivers. Another fire near the southern coastal town of Eden was at an Emergency level, and the ABC reported police have warned people should leave for evacuation centres. Five fires in Victoria had Evacuate Now or Emergency Level warnings. Haze from the fires was turning skies orange in New Zealand; police there asked people to not call the emergency phone number. The death of a 47-year old man who was defending a friend's rural property in NSW took the national toll this season to 24. NSW Premier Berejiklian said there was no one unaccounted for in NSW; Victorian authorities said seven people were unaccounted for in Victoria. The federal government on Saturday announced an unprecedented call up of army reservists to support firefighters as well other resources including a third navy ship equipped for disaster and humanitarian relief. It also announced the creation of a federal bushfires response agency. RFS Commissioner Fitzsimmons criticised the government for not informing him of its policy proposal, saying he found out about it from the media and it created confusion on one of the busiest days ever for fighting fires. PM Morrison faced criticism for a video he posted on social media outlining how the government is tackling the fires. Morrison has been under sustained attack handling of the crisis after he jetted out for a family holiday in Hawaii. He apologised and returned early but was heckled and snubbed when he toured fire-hit regions in recent days. More than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land has been burnt this fire season. Almost 1,500 homes have been destroyed in NSW state alone.

New bushfire flares in southeast Australia as damage assessment begins

In the wake of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's killing</a> by the&nbsp;United States, Washington has issued a terror advisory to the American public to stay alert.

The Department of Homeland Security on Saturday updated its terrorism threat advisory system.&nbsp;

The new National Terrorism Advisory System bulletin was issued by acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf and&nbsp;warned of a potential Iranian threat including a cyberattack.&nbsp;

The bulletin stated that Iran has a robust cyber programme and can carry out a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-hackers-claim-breach-of-us-government-website-272193">cyberattack against the United States</a>.&nbsp;

In the bulletin, Wolf said that there is "no specific, credible threat against the homeland", highlighting the fact that Iran and its partners have had shown the intentions to carry out operations in the United States previously.&nbsp;

"An attack in the homeland may come with little or no warning," the release read.&nbsp;

Wolf said that the homeland security department, as well as various agencies, are taking protective measures also cautioning of the possibility of Iran using terrorist activities in retaliation to Soleimani's assassination.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iraq?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iraq</a>: Due to heightened tensions in Iraq and the region, we urge U.S. citizens to depart Iraq immediately. Due to Iranian-backed militia attacks at the U.S. Embassy compound, all consular operations are suspended. U.S. citizens should not approach the Embassy. <a href="https://t.co/rdRce3Qr4a">pic.twitter.com/rdRce3Qr4a</a>
— Travel - State Dept (@TravelGov) <a href="https://twitter.com/TravelGov/status/1213011491777060864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Homegrown violent extremists could capitalise on the heightened tensions to launch individual attacks," the bulletin read.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, shortly after the homeland department's bulletin warned of a potential cyberattack form Iran, Tehran hackers claimed to breach a US government website.&nbsp;

A group, that claimed to be Iranian hackers, breached the website of US Federal Depository Library Program on Saturday.&nbsp;

The website bore a message vowing revenge for top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani's killing in US airstrikes.

The website also displayed images of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with the Iranian flag.

Iran's elite military force's commander Qasem Soleimani was killed on January 3 in US airstrikes that were carried out at the Baghdad International Airport.&nbsp;

Soleimani headed the Revolutionary Guards for over two decades and was among the topmost people in the country.&nbsp;

In the wake of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's killing by the United States, Washington has issued a terror advisory to the American public to stay alert.

In the wake of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's killing by the United States, Washington has issued a terror advisory to the American public to stay alert. The Department of Homeland Security on Saturday updated its terrorism threat advisory system. The new National Terrorism Advisory System bulletin was issued by acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf and warned of a potential Iranian threat including a cyberattack. The bulletin stated that Iran has a robust cyber programme and can carry out a cyberattack against the United States. In the bulletin, Wolf said that there is "no specific, credible threat against the homeland", highlighting the fact that Iran and its partners have had shown the intentions to carry out operations in the United States previously. "An attack in the homeland may come with little or no warning," the release read. Wolf said that the homeland security department, as well as various agencies, are taking protective measures also cautioning of the possibility of Iran using terrorist activities in retaliation to Soleimani's assassination. #Iraq: Due to heightened tensions in Iraq and the region, we urge U.S. citizens to depart Iraq immediately. Due to Iranian-backed militia attacks at the U.S. Embassy compound, all consular operations are suspended. U.S. citizens should not approach the Embassy. pic.twitter.com/rdRce3Qr4a — Travel - State Dept (@TravelGov) January 3, 2020 × "Homegrown violent extremists could capitalise on the heightened tensions to launch individual attacks," the bulletin read. Meanwhile, shortly after the homeland department's bulletin warned of a potential cyberattack form Iran, Tehran hackers claimed to breach a US government website. A group, that claimed to be Iranian hackers, breached the website of US Federal Depository Library Program on Saturday. The website bore a message vowing revenge for top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani's killing in US airstrikes. The website also displayed images of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with the Iranian flag. Iran's elite military force's commander Qasem Soleimani was killed on January 3 in US airstrikes that were carried out at the Baghdad International Airport. Soleimani headed the Revolutionary Guards for over two decades and was among the topmost people in the country.

An attack in the homeland may come with little or no warning: US Department of Homeland Security 

On January 15, China & U.S. going to have a trade agreement. The U.S. is a trade partner of China, despite China's ties with Iran. China has urged for restraint and calm. #China #US #TradeAgreement

China claims, 'Soleimani killing won't derail China-U.S. trade talks'

A group claiming to be hackers from Iran breached the website of a little-known US government agency on Saturday and posted messages vowing revenge for Washington's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">killing of top military commander Qasem Soleimani</a>.

The website of the Federal Depository Library Program was replaced with a page titled "Iranian Hackers!" that displayed images of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the Iranian flag.

"Martyrdom was (Soleimani's)... reward for years of implacable efforts," read a graphic depicting US President Donald Trump being punched by a first emanating from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-punish-americans-wherever-they-are-within-its-reach-guards-commander-272154">Iran</a> as missiles fly by.

"With his departure and with God's power, his work and path will not cease and severe revenge awaits those criminals who have tainted their filthy hands with his blood and blood of the other martyrs," it said.

"This is only small part of Iran's cyber ability !" another caption on the page read in white text on a black background.

The killing of Soleimani in a drone strike in Iraq early Friday brought a furious vow of revenge from Tehran.

Described as the second most powerful man in Iran, Soleimani oversaw wide-ranging interventions in regional power struggles.

Trump has said Soleimani was planning an "imminent" attack on US personnel in Baghdad.

The president has warned that Washington is targeting 52 sites in Iran and will hit them "very fast and very hard" if the Islamic republic attacks American personnel or assets.

A group claiming to be hackers from Iran breached the website of a little-known US government agency on Saturday and posted messages vowing revenge for Washington's killing of top military commander Qasem Soleimani.

A group claiming to be hackers from Iran breached the website of a little-known US government agency on Saturday and posted messages vowing revenge for Washington's killing of top military commander Qasem Soleimani. The website of the Federal Depository Library Program was replaced with a page titled "Iranian Hackers!" that displayed images of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the Iranian flag. "Martyrdom was (Soleimani's)... reward for years of implacable efforts," read a graphic depicting US President Donald Trump being punched by a first emanating from Iran as missiles fly by. "With his departure and with God's power, his work and path will not cease and severe revenge awaits those criminals who have tainted their filthy hands with his blood and blood of the other martyrs," it said. "This is only small part of Iran's cyber ability !" another caption on the page read in white text on a black background. The killing of Soleimani in a drone strike in Iraq early Friday brought a furious vow of revenge from Tehran. Described as the second most powerful man in Iran, Soleimani oversaw wide-ranging interventions in regional power struggles. Trump has said Soleimani was planning an "imminent" attack on US personnel in Baghdad. The president has warned that Washington is targeting 52 sites in Iran and will hit them "very fast and very hard" if the Islamic republic attacks American personnel or assets.

Iranian hackers' claim breach of US government website

Fire threats eased in parts of southeastern Australia on Sunday after a horror day of blazes that killed one man and injured four firefighters, but authorities warned several fires were still burning at emergency levels and hot weather was set to return.

As the immediate danger passed and cooler weather tempered the intensity of many fires, authorities began assessing the damage from Saturday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fuelled-by-high-temperatures-and-strong-winds-australian-bushfires-continues-rage-272114">wildfires</a> that swept across eastern Victoria and southern New South Wales (NSW) states.

Tens of thousands of homes were without power on Sunday as a large-scale military and police effort continued to provide supplies and evacuate people who have been trapped for days by the fires in coastal towns.

Initial estimates put damaged or destroyed properties in the hundreds, but authorities said mass evacuations by residents of at-risk areas appear to have prevented major loss of life.

"It was an awful day yesterday. It was a very difficult day yesterday," NSW Rural Fire Services Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-wildfires-developing-their-own-weather-systems-authorities-272116">Australian wildfires developing their own 'weather systems': Authorities</a>

A southerly wind late on Saturday helped bring temperatures down from highs above 40 C (104F) and light rain was forecast in some coastal areas in coming days, but officials said that would not be enough to bring the almost 200 fires still burning under control.

Fitzsimmons said the next major flashpoint would come later in the week, but it was too early to gauge the likely severity of the threat.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the immediate focus was on helping people who had lost their homes as well containing the fires still burning.

"The weather activity we're seeing, the extent and spread of the fires, the speed at which they're going, the way in which they are attacking communities who have never ever seen fire before is unprecedented," Berejiklian said.

Australia has been battling blazes across much of its east coast for months, with experts saying climate change has been a major factor in a three-year drought that has left much of the country's bushland tinder-dry and susceptible to fires.
<img alt="australia bushfire" data-caption="A resident uses a garden hose to wet down the house as high winds push smoke and ash from the Currowan Fire towards Nowra, New South Wales, Australia January 4, 2020." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44452f14-6372-42c7-ab83-aad12b4ea08a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2020.01.05T013153Z_3_LYNXMPEG030PW_RTROPTP_4_AUSTRALIA.BUSHFIRES.jpg" />
Following are highlights of what is happening across Australia:

- The death of a 47-year old man who was defending a friend's rural property in NSW took the national toll this season to 24.

- In the Southern Highlands region south of Sydney, a new fire was burning out of control after the winds helped drive an existing blaze to jump the Shoalhaven and Kangaroo rivers.

- Another fire near the southern coastal town of Eden was at Emergency level, and the ABC reported police have warned people should leave for evacuation centres.

- Five fires in Victoria had Evacuate Now or Emergency Level warnings.

- NSW Premier Berejiklian says there is no one unaccounted for in NSW; Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews says six people remain unaccounted for in Victoria.

- The federal government has announced an unprecedented call up of army reservists to support firefighters as well other resources including a third navy ship equipped for disaster and humanitarian relief.

- RFS Commissioner Fitzsimmons criticised the government for not informing him of its policy proposal, saying he found out about it from the media and it created confusion on one of the busiest days ever for fighting fires. "I was disappointed and I was frustrated in the middle of what was one of our worst days ever on record with massive dislocation and movement of people and a focus on really difficult weather," Fitzsimmons said.

- Prime Minister Scott Morrison faced criticism for a video he posted on social media outlining how the government is tackling the fires. Morrison has been under sustained attack handling of the crisis after he jetted out for a family holiday in Hawaii. He apologised and returned early but was heckled and snubbed when he toured fire-hit regions in recent days.

- More than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land has been burnt this fire season.&nbsp;

Fire threats eased in parts of southeastern Australia on Sunday after a horror day of blazes that killed one man and injured four firefighters, but authorities warned several fires were still burning at emergency levels and hot weather was set to return.

Fire threats eased in parts of southeastern Australia on Sunday after a horror day of blazes that killed one man and injured four firefighters, but authorities warned several fires were still burning at emergency levels and hot weather was set to return. As the immediate danger passed and cooler weather tempered the intensity of many fires, authorities began assessing the damage from Saturday's wildfires that swept across eastern Victoria and southern New South Wales (NSW) states. Tens of thousands of homes were without power on Sunday as a large-scale military and police effort continued to provide supplies and evacuate people who have been trapped for days by the fires in coastal towns. Initial estimates put damaged or destroyed properties in the hundreds, but authorities said mass evacuations by residents of at-risk areas appear to have prevented major loss of life. "It was an awful day yesterday. It was a very difficult day yesterday," NSW Rural Fire Services Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said on Sunday. Also read: Australian wildfires developing their own 'weather systems': Authorities A southerly wind late on Saturday helped bring temperatures down from highs above 40 C (104F) and light rain was forecast in some coastal areas in coming days, but officials said that would not be enough to bring the almost 200 fires still burning under control. Fitzsimmons said the next major flashpoint would come later in the week, but it was too early to gauge the likely severity of the threat. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the immediate focus was on helping people who had lost their homes as well containing the fires still burning. "The weather activity we're seeing, the extent and spread of the fires, the speed at which they're going, the way in which they are attacking communities who have never ever seen fire before is unprecedented," Berejiklian said. Australia has been battling blazes across much of its east coast for months, with experts saying climate change has been a major factor in a three-year drought that has left much of the country's bushland tinder-dry and susceptible to fires. Following are highlights of what is happening across Australia: - The death of a 47-year old man who was defending a friend's rural property in NSW took the national toll this season to 24. - In the Southern Highlands region south of Sydney, a new fire was burning out of control after the winds helped drive an existing blaze to jump the Shoalhaven and Kangaroo rivers. - Another fire near the southern coastal town of Eden was at Emergency level, and the ABC reported police have warned people should leave for evacuation centres. - Five fires in Victoria had Evacuate Now or Emergency Level warnings. - NSW Premier Berejiklian says there is no one unaccounted for in NSW; Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews says six people remain unaccounted for in Victoria. - The federal government has announced an unprecedented call up of army reservists to support firefighters as well other resources including a third navy ship equipped for disaster and humanitarian relief. - RFS Commissioner Fitzsimmons criticised the government for not informing him of its policy proposal, saying he found out about it from the media and it created confusion on one of the busiest days ever for fighting fires. "I was disappointed and I was frustrated in the middle of what was one of our worst days ever on record with massive dislocation and movement of people and a focus on really difficult weather," Fitzsimmons said. - Prime Minister Scott Morrison faced criticism for a video he posted on social media outlining how the government is tackling the fires. Morrison has been under sustained attack handling of the crisis after he jetted out for a family holiday in Hawaii. He apologised and returned early but was heckled and snubbed when he toured fire-hit regions in recent days. - More than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land has been burnt this fire season.

Australian firefighters get brief reprieve as death toll rises

At least 24 people were killed and 23 injured after a building in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-airstrip-in-cambodian-jungle-sparks-fears-over-chinas-military-ambitions-report-270005">Cambodia</a> collapsed, trapping workers under rubble, officials said on Sunday.

The seven-storey concrete building collapsed on Friday in the coastal town of Kep, about 160 km (100 miles) southwest of the capital Phnom Penh.

It came a year after another construction site collapsed, killing 28 people in Preah Sihanouk province.

"Twenty-four people have died so far," Kep governor Ken Satha told Reuters. "Three of the bodies are not yet at hospital, they have not been pulled out yet."

An unknown number of workers remained trapped, Satha said, adding that authorities had detained a Cambodian couple, the owners of the building, for questioning.

Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Saturday that rescuers were still struggling to reach those missing in the rubble.

Cambodia is undergoing a construction boom to serve growing crowds of Chinese tourists and investors.

At least 24 people were killed and 23 injured after a building in Cambodia collapsed, trapping workers under rubble, officials said on Sunday. The seven-storey concrete building collapsed on Friday in the coastal town of Kep, about 160 km (100 miles) southwest of the capital Phnom Penh.

At least 24 people were killed and 23 injured after a building in Cambodia collapsed, trapping workers under rubble, officials said on Sunday. The seven-storey concrete building collapsed on Friday in the coastal town of Kep, about 160 km (100 miles) southwest of the capital Phnom Penh. It came a year after another construction site collapsed, killing 28 people in Preah Sihanouk province. "Twenty-four people have died so far," Kep governor Ken Satha told Reuters. "Three of the bodies are not yet at hospital, they have not been pulled out yet." An unknown number of workers remained trapped, Satha said, adding that authorities had detained a Cambodian couple, the owners of the building, for questioning. Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Saturday that rescuers were still struggling to reach those missing in the rubble. Cambodia is undergoing a construction boom to serve growing crowds of Chinese tourists and investors.

Death toll rises to 24 in Cambodia building collapse, some still trapped

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soleimanis-killing-uk-pm-boris-johnson-under-pressure-to-cut-short-caribbean-vacation-272084">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a>, reportedly, uttered the four-letter 'F' word in an outburst after learning about the US airstrikes at Baghdad International Airport that killed top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani on January 3.&nbsp;

As per reports, while US ally Israel was communicated about the airstrike and Soleimani's killing, the United Kingdom was caught unaware.&nbsp;

The UK has around 400 troops stationed in the Middle East and works alongside US forces in the region.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, according to British media, the British prime minister is being criticised for not cutting short his Caribbean vacation amid Soleimani's killing and escalating tensions between the Middle East and the West.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meatloaf-and-ice-cream-trump-savoured-an-all-american-meal-as-pentagon-confirmed-soleimanis-killing-272061">Meatloaf and ice cream - Trump savoured an all-American meal as Pentagon confirmed Soleimani's killing</a>

In Johnson's absence, foreign minister Dominic&nbsp;Raab issued a statement on Soleimani's assassination and called for de-escalation.

"We have always recognised the aggressive threat posed by the Iranian Quds force led by Qasem Soleimani. Following his death, we urge all parties to de-escalate. Further conflict is in none of our interests," Raab said as reported by news agency Reuters. &nbsp;

UK PM Boris Johnson is on a vacation with girlfriend&nbsp;Carrie Symonds in the Caribbean&nbsp;ahead of the resumption of Parliament's winter recess.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reportedly, uttered the four-letter 'F' word in an outburst after learning about the US airstrikes at Baghdad International Airport that killed top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani on January 3.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reportedly, uttered the four-letter 'F' word in an outburst after learning about the US airstrikes at Baghdad International Airport that killed top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani on January 3. As per reports, while US ally Israel was communicated about the airstrike and Soleimani's killing, the United Kingdom was caught unaware. The UK has around 400 troops stationed in the Middle East and works alongside US forces in the region. Meanwhile, according to British media, the British prime minister is being criticised for not cutting short his Caribbean vacation amid Soleimani's killing and escalating tensions between the Middle East and the West. Also read: Meatloaf and ice cream - Trump savoured an all-American meal as Pentagon confirmed Soleimani's killing In Johnson's absence, foreign minister Dominic Raab issued a statement on Soleimani's assassination and called for de-escalation. "We have always recognised the aggressive threat posed by the Iranian Quds force led by Qasem Soleimani. Following his death, we urge all parties to de-escalate. Further conflict is in none of our interests," Raab said as reported by news agency Reuters. UK PM Boris Johnson is on a vacation with girlfriend Carrie Symonds in the Caribbean ahead of the resumption of Parliament's winter recess.

UK PM Boris Johnson exclaimed with 'F' word in reaction to Soleimani's killing in US airstrikes

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lacks-courage-for-military-confrontation-with-iran-iran-army-chief-272304">Iran</a>'s top military general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dominic-raab-calls-for-de-escalation-of-tensions-after-killing-of-menace-soleimani-272295">Qasem Soleimani's killing</a> has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely.

The Indian government as well has found itself in a tough spot. The immediate fallout before PM Modi and his policy advisers will be managing the spike in global oil prices.

But looking at India's history with Iran and the current relations with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-attack-in-the-homeland-may-come-with-little-or-no-warning-us-department-of-homeland-security-272207">United States</a> the political dynamics become interesting.

The stage upon which this geopolitical conflict was playing out until now has expanded exponentially.

The Shia Muslim population of India have deep cultural, spiritual and historical connections with Tehran. The terms 'Namaz' and 'Khuda Hafiz' find their roots in Persia.&nbsp;

Interestingly, these protests come at a time when a significant portion of the Muslim community in India is already protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

The Indian government knows that its response to the escalating crisis has to factor in the sentiments of the community at large.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meatloaf-and-ice-cream-trump-savoured-an-all-american-meal-as-pentagon-confirmed-soleimanis-killing-272061">Meatloaf and ice cream - Trump savoured an all-American meal as Pentagon confirmed Soleimani's killing</a>

<img alt="Iran " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a63e78ed-ed6e-43db-a27a-673d0c16bce0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/iran%20oil.jpg" />

Vital interests

India has vital interests in the Middle East. In the Gulf alone, India has close to 9 million residents. This region is a significant source of Indian oil and gas imports as well as remittances, especially to the state of Kerala.

Transit route&nbsp;

Importantly, India hoped that this region will serve as a transit route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, including through the Iranian port of Chabahar. &nbsp;India even has a sanction exemption for it from the US.

The balancing act

Perhaps, the biggest challenge for India is to balance the entire act. The government has tried to walk a tightrope over the past few years maintaining ties with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Israel and being extremely cautious of not antagonising America at the same time.&nbsp;

US-India ties

The US, unlike in the past, has refrained from appearing hostile toward's prime minister Modi's stance on Pakistan. It did not even condemn India's Balakot strike or the abrogation of article 370 and the Citizenship Amendment Act&nbsp;

The US is India's second-largest trading partner after China and a superpower which India doesn't want to work against. Especially, after Trump's significant remarks about Soleimani having had a key role in the attack on an Israeli diplomat in Delhi.

For the second time, New Delhi is finding itself at the crossroads due to the ongoing tensions between Iran and Iraq.

<img alt="us-india ties" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d6ebbb7-9eab-401c-a291-d51c90a7ce0a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/us-india.jpg" />

Neutral stance

Before the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, India's ties with the country suffered due to the UN sanctions on Iraq. But India soon developed trade within the oil-for-food program, which permitted Iraq to export oil for essential goods.

After the US invasion of Iraq, India maintained a neutral stance and had even condemned military action against Iraq but later almost joined the coalition under the US backroom diplomacy only to eventually back off due to public sentiment and opposition protests.

<img alt="oil" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="129f6695-8efc-493a-b2df-6527ed0ed945" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/oil.jpg" />

Oil matters

More recently, the US sanctions on Iran have forced India's hand on the most vital commodity - oil. Iran's foreign minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-invites-iranian-foreign-minister-zarif-to-brussels-amid-rising-middle-east-tension-272290">Javad Zarif</a> stated that India must stand up to the bully.

India has managed to make up for the loss of Iranian oil with other imports but PM Modi knows that oil is a commodity that can cause a massive political upheaval in India.

Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani's killing has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely.

Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani's killing has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely. The Indian government as well has found itself in a tough spot. The immediate fallout before PM Modi and his policy advisers will be managing the spike in global oil prices. But looking at India's history with Iran and the current relations with the United States the political dynamics become interesting. The stage upon which this geopolitical conflict was playing out until now has expanded exponentially. The Shia Muslim population of India have deep cultural, spiritual and historical connections with Tehran. The terms 'Namaz' and 'Khuda Hafiz' find their roots in Persia. Interestingly, these protests come at a time when a significant portion of the Muslim community in India is already protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act. The Indian government knows that its response to the escalating crisis has to factor in the sentiments of the community at large. Also read: Meatloaf and ice cream - Trump savoured an all-American meal as Pentagon confirmed Soleimani's killing Vital interests India has vital interests in the Middle East. In the Gulf alone, India has close to 9 million residents. This region is a significant source of Indian oil and gas imports as well as remittances, especially to the state of Kerala. Transit route Importantly, India hoped that this region will serve as a transit route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, including through the Iranian port of Chabahar. India even has a sanction exemption for it from the US. The balancing act Perhaps, the biggest challenge for India is to balance the entire act. The government has tried to walk a tightrope over the past few years maintaining ties with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Israel and being extremely cautious of not antagonising America at the same time. US-India ties The US, unlike in the past, has refrained from appearing hostile toward's prime minister Modi's stance on Pakistan. It did not even condemn India's Balakot strike or the abrogation of article 370 and the Citizenship Amendment Act The US is India's second-largest trading partner after China and a superpower which India doesn't want to work against. Especially, after Trump's significant remarks about Soleimani having had a key role in the attack on an Israeli diplomat in Delhi. For the second time, New Delhi is finding itself at the crossroads due to the ongoing tensions between Iran and Iraq. Neutral stance Before the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, India's ties with the country suffered due to the UN sanctions on Iraq. But India soon developed trade within the oil-for-food program, which permitted Iraq to export oil for essential goods. After the US invasion of Iraq, India maintained a neutral stance and had even condemned military action against Iraq but later almost joined the coalition under the US backroom diplomacy only to eventually back off due to public sentiment and opposition protests. Oil matters More recently, the US sanctions on Iran have forced India's hand on the most vital commodity - oil. Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif stated that India must stand up to the bully. India has managed to make up for the loss of Iranian oil with other imports but PM Modi knows that oil is a commodity that can cause a massive political upheaval in India.

As tension escalates between US and Iran, how is India impacted and what are New Delhi's options?  

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-portfolio-distribution-ajit-pawar-gets-finance-aaditya-thackeray-to-look-after-environment-272217">Worli MLA Aaditya Thackeray</a> on Sunday expressed happiness over getting the portfolio of state Tourism and Environment minister and assured that he will take substantial steps to boost the tourism sector in order to strengthen Maharashtra's economy.

"I have been given the portfolios of Tourism and Environment. We can strengthen the economy of Maharashtra with tourism," he said while speaking to media in Maharashtra."I will take charge of the office after tomorrow's meeting," he added.

Apart from Thackeray, other Shiv Sena leaders such as Eknath Shinde will look after Urban Development Ministry, Ministry of Industry and Mining and Ministry of Marathi language has been allocated to Subhash Desai, Anil Parab is assigned the Transport department.

Party leader Sanjay Rathod has been assigned with the Forest portfolio while Uday Samant will look after Higher and Technical Education.

Dada Bhuse is assigned Agriculture, Sandeepan Bhumre Employment Guarantee, Gulabrao Patil - Water supply and Shankarrao Gadakh will be looking after the irrigation department.

The Maharashtra government which was formed after days of deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena had its cabinet expansion earlier this week.

On November 28, Uddhav Thackeray took oath as Chief Minister bringing an end to weeks of political instability in the state's politics after Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress stitched a post-poll coalition as Maha Vikas Aghadi.

Along with the Chief Minister six other ministers -- two each from NCP, Congress, and Shiv Sena took the oath of office.

Worli MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday expressed happiness over getting the portfolio of state Tourism and Environment minister and assured that he will take substantial steps to boost the tourism sector in order to strengthen Maharashtra's economy.

Worli MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday expressed happiness over getting the portfolio of state Tourism and Environment minister and assured that he will take substantial steps to boost the tourism sector in order to strengthen Maharashtra's economy. "I have been given the portfolios of Tourism and Environment. We can strengthen the economy of Maharashtra with tourism," he said while speaking to media in Maharashtra."I will take charge of the office after tomorrow's meeting," he added. Apart from Thackeray, other Shiv Sena leaders such as Eknath Shinde will look after Urban Development Ministry, Ministry of Industry and Mining and Ministry of Marathi language has been allocated to Subhash Desai, Anil Parab is assigned the Transport department. Party leader Sanjay Rathod has been assigned with the Forest portfolio while Uday Samant will look after Higher and Technical Education. Dada Bhuse is assigned Agriculture, Sandeepan Bhumre Employment Guarantee, Gulabrao Patil - Water supply and Shankarrao Gadakh will be looking after the irrigation department. The Maharashtra government which was formed after days of deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena had its cabinet expansion earlier this week. On November 28, Uddhav Thackeray took oath as Chief Minister bringing an end to weeks of political instability in the state's politics after Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress stitched a post-poll coalition as Maha Vikas Aghadi. Along with the Chief Minister six other ministers -- two each from NCP, Congress, and Shiv Sena took the oath of office.

Aaditya Thackeray vows to strengthen Maharashtra's tourism sector

The death toll of infants has risen to 110 at the JK Lon government hospital here on Sunday.

The toll was 107 on Saturday. Earlier on Saturday, a central team of experts visited the hospital to take stock of the incident.

A three-member state government committee of doctors, who was sent to investigate the matter on December 23 and 24, found that the hospital is short of beds and it requires improvement.

However, the committee gave a clean chit to the doctors for any lapses over the recent death of infants admitted there.

Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan to submit a detailed report within four weeks about the steps being taken to address the issue of child deaths in the hospital.

The Commission also asked the Chief Secretary to ensure that such deaths of the children do not recur in the future due to lack of infrastructure and health facilities at the hospitals.&nbsp;

The death toll of infants has risen to 110 at the JK Lon government hospital here on Sunday. The toll was 107 on Saturday. Earlier on Saturday, a central team of experts visited the hospital to take stock of the incident.

The death toll of infants has risen to 110 at the JK Lon government hospital here on Sunday. The toll was 107 on Saturday. Earlier on Saturday, a central team of experts visited the hospital to take stock of the incident. A three-member state government committee of doctors, who was sent to investigate the matter on December 23 and 24, found that the hospital is short of beds and it requires improvement. However, the committee gave a clean chit to the doctors for any lapses over the recent death of infants admitted there. Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan to submit a detailed report within four weeks about the steps being taken to address the issue of child deaths in the hospital. The Commission also asked the Chief Secretary to ensure that such deaths of the children do not recur in the future due to lack of infrastructure and health facilities at the hospitals.

Rajasthan: Infant death toll in Kota's JK Lon Hospital rises to 110

Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-slammed-by-syed-akbaruddin-for-sharing-a-seven-years-old-fake-video-272024">Imran Khan</a> on Sunday condemned the incident of vandalism at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nankana-sahib-incident-proof-of-state-of-minorities-in-pak-caa-opposers-should-introspect-hardeep-singh-puri-272102">Nankana Sahib Gurdwara</a>, saying that the attack is against 'his vision' and that the perpetrators would not find any protection from the government or police. 
 
Intransigent despite criticism, Khan further raked up his rhetorics on the state of minorities in India, saying that there is a "major difference" between the "condemnable Nankana incident and the ongoing attack across India on Muslims and other minorities."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The major difference between the condemnable Nankana incident &amp; the ongoing attacks across India on Muslims &amp; other minorities is this: the former is against my vision &amp; will find zero tolerance &amp; protection from the govt incl police &amp; judiciary;
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1213719619023884288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"The major difference between the condemnable Nankana incident &amp; the ongoing attacks across India on Muslims and other minorities is this: the former is against my vision &amp; will find zero tolerance &amp; protection from the govt incl police &amp; judiciary," Khan tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In contrast, Modi's RSS vision supports minorities oppression &amp; the targeted attacks against Muslims are part of this agenda. RSS goons conducting public lynchings, Muslims being violated by mobs are all not only supported by Modi Govt but Indian police leads anti-Muslim attacks
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1213719622173769729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"In contrast, Modi's RSS vision supports minorities oppression &amp; the targeted attacks against Muslims are part of this agenda. RSS goons conducting public lynchings, Muslims being violated by mobs are all not only supported by Modi Govt but Indian police lead anti-Muslim attacks," he added.

Khan's statement has come two days after he was widely criticised for trying to peddle a seven-year-old video from Bangladesh as a case of police excesses on Muslims in Uttar Pradesh.

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Repeat Offenders...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Oldhabitsdiehard?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Oldhabitsdiehard</a> <a href="https://t.co/wmsmuiMOjf">pic.twitter.com/wmsmuiMOjf</a>
— Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkbaruddinIndia/status/1213144735298326529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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An angry group of local residents had pelted stones at Gurdwara Nankana Sahib in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had abducted a Sikh girl, Jagjit Kaur, from her home in August last year.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday condemned the incident of vandalism at the Nankana Sahib Gurdwara, saying that the attack is against 'his vision' and that the perpetrators would not find any protection from the government or police.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday condemned the incident of vandalism at the Nankana Sahib Gurdwara, saying that the attack is against 'his vision' and that the perpetrators would not find any protection from the government or police. Intransigent despite criticism, Khan further raked up his rhetorics on the state of minorities in India, saying that there is a "major difference" between the "condemnable Nankana incident and the ongoing attack across India on Muslims and other minorities." The major difference between the condemnable Nankana incident & the ongoing attacks across India on Muslims & other minorities is this: the former is against my vision & will find zero tolerance & protection from the govt incl police & judiciary; — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) January 5, 2020 × "The major difference between the condemnable Nankana incident & the ongoing attacks across India on Muslims and other minorities is this: the former is against my vision & will find zero tolerance & protection from the govt incl police & judiciary," Khan tweeted. In contrast, Modi's RSS vision supports minorities oppression & the targeted attacks against Muslims are part of this agenda. RSS goons conducting public lynchings, Muslims being violated by mobs are all not only supported by Modi Govt but Indian police leads anti-Muslim attacks — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) January 5, 2020 × "In contrast, Modi's RSS vision supports minorities oppression & the targeted attacks against Muslims are part of this agenda. RSS goons conducting public lynchings, Muslims being violated by mobs are all not only supported by Modi Govt but Indian police lead anti-Muslim attacks," he added. Khan's statement has come two days after he was widely criticised for trying to peddle a seven-year-old video from Bangladesh as a case of police excesses on Muslims in Uttar Pradesh. Repeat Offenders...#Oldhabitsdiehard pic.twitter.com/wmsmuiMOjf — Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) January 3, 2020 × An angry group of local residents had pelted stones at Gurdwara Nankana Sahib in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had abducted a Sikh girl, Jagjit Kaur, from her home in August last year.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan condemns Nankana Sahib Gurdwara incident

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