A missile fired by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group struck a military parade in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/17-civilians-killed-in-3rd-attack-on-yemen-market-united-nations-270403">Yemen</a>'s southern separatist-held town of al-Dhalea, killing at least five people and injuring others, Yemen's Security Belt forces said on Sunday.

No claim of responsibility was made and Houthi media did not immediately comment on the blast or accusation.

The Security Belt forces are part of a southern separatist front in south Yemen. At the same time, they are backed by the United Arab Emirates in a fight against Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group.

Witnesses told Reuters that a blast occurred near a guest platform during the parade and that many were injured or killed. They reported seeing bodies at the scene.

At least five people died and eight were injured, according to local health authority figures quoted by the Security Belt group and in a statement from the local media office of the forces which control al-Dhalea.

A missile blast struck the military graduation parade area just after the ceremony involving Security Belt forces had finished, the statements said.

Yemen has suffered from almost five years of conflict since the Houthi movement ousted President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi's government in late 2014. The coup drew military intervention in 2015 by a Saudi-led coalition, which includes the UAE, trying to restore Hadi's internationally recognized government.

The town of al-Dhalea is controlled by southern separatist forces. It lies on the main south-to-north road linking the southern port of Aden — controlled by Hadi's government — to the Houthi-controlled capital, Sanaa. A contested frontline runs across al-Dhalea province.

In August the Houthis claimed responsibility for a missile and drone attack on a parade in Aden, the seat of the internationally recognised government, killing around 36 people including a prominent commander.

A missile fired by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group struck a military parade in Yemen's southern separatist-held town of al-Dhalea, killing at least five people and injuring others, Yemen's Security Belt forces said on Sunday.

A missile fired by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group struck a military parade in Yemen's southern separatist-held town of al-Dhalea, killing at least five people and injuring others, Yemen's Security Belt forces said on Sunday. No claim of responsibility was made and Houthi media did not immediately comment on the blast or accusation. The Security Belt forces are part of a southern separatist front in south Yemen. At the same time, they are backed by the United Arab Emirates in a fight against Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group. Witnesses told Reuters that a blast occurred near a guest platform during the parade and that many were injured or killed. They reported seeing bodies at the scene. At least five people died and eight were injured, according to local health authority figures quoted by the Security Belt group and in a statement from the local media office of the forces which control al-Dhalea. A missile blast struck the military graduation parade area just after the ceremony involving Security Belt forces had finished, the statements said. Yemen has suffered from almost five years of conflict since the Houthi movement ousted President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi's government in late 2014. The coup drew military intervention in 2015 by a Saudi-led coalition, which includes the UAE, trying to restore Hadi's internationally recognized government. The town of al-Dhalea is controlled by southern separatist forces. It lies on the main south-to-north road linking the southern port of Aden — controlled by Hadi's government — to the Houthi-controlled capital, Sanaa. A contested frontline runs across al-Dhalea province. In August the Houthis claimed responsibility for a missile and drone attack on a parade in Aden, the seat of the internationally recognised government, killing around 36 people including a prominent commander.

Blast hits military parade in Yemen, at least five dead

A Turkish military cargo plane landed in the Somali capital on Sunday to evacuate people badly wounded in a devastating truck bombing in the city a day earlier that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-90-people-killed-in-mogadishu-checkpoint-blast-report-270759">killed at least 90 people</a> including two Turkish nationals.

The plane also brought emergency medical staff and supplies, according to a tweet from the Turkish embassy, adding there&nbsp;had been transferred to a Turkish-run hospital in Mogadishu.

Somali Information Minister Mohamed Abdi Hayir Mareye told state media that 10 badly injured Somalis would be evacuated to Turkey. He added that Turkey had sent 24 doctors to treat those wounded who could not be evacuated.

Since a 2011 famine in Somalia, Turkey has been a leading aid provider to the country as Ankara seeks to boost its influence in the strategic Horn of Africa in competition with Gulf rivals like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/saudi-kuwait-signed-an-agreement-to-resume-joint-oil-output-270025">Saudi Arabia</a> and the United Arab Emirates.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Bomb blast at busy Mogadishu checkpoint claim lives of more that 90, dozens injured

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Saturday’s blast, at a busy checkpoint during rush hour in Mogadishu, was the deadliest in war-torn Somalia in more than two years. No-one immediately claimed responsibility, although the city’s mayor blamed al Qaeda-linked Islamist group al Shabaab.

The dead included many students from a university in the city, authorities said.

A Reuters witness at Mogadishu airport saw 10 injured Somalis and the bodies of two dead Turks loaded on the plane.

The bombing was the 20th vehicle-borne explosives attack of 2019 in Somalia and the year is ending with more deaths from such attacks than 2018, according to the Hiraal Institute, a Mogadishu-based security-think tank.

Grieving families on Sunday arranged burials and funerals for their loved ones, having endured the anguish of identifying charred corpses and body fragments at the blast site and at hospitals around the city.&nbsp;

A Turkish military cargo plane landed in the Somali capital on Sunday to evacuate people badly wounded in a devastating truck bombing in the city a day earlier that killed at least 90 people including two Turkish nationals.

A Turkish military cargo plane landed in the Somali capital on Sunday to evacuate people badly wounded in a devastating truck bombing in the city a day earlier that killed at least 90 people including two Turkish nationals. The plane also brought emergency medical staff and supplies, according to a tweet from the Turkish embassy, adding there had been transferred to a Turkish-run hospital in Mogadishu. Somali Information Minister Mohamed Abdi Hayir Mareye told state media that 10 badly injured Somalis would be evacuated to Turkey. He added that Turkey had sent 24 doctors to treat those wounded who could not be evacuated. Since a 2011 famine in Somalia, Turkey has been a leading aid provider to the country as Ankara seeks to boost its influence in the strategic Horn of Africa in competition with Gulf rivals like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Also Watch: Bomb blast at busy Mogadishu checkpoint claim lives of more that 90, dozens injured × Saturday’s blast, at a busy checkpoint during rush hour in Mogadishu, was the deadliest in war-torn Somalia in more than two years. No-one immediately claimed responsibility, although the city’s mayor blamed al Qaeda-linked Islamist group al Shabaab. The dead included many students from a university in the city, authorities said. A Reuters witness at Mogadishu airport saw 10 injured Somalis and the bodies of two dead Turks loaded on the plane. The bombing was the 20th vehicle-borne explosives attack of 2019 in Somalia and the year is ending with more deaths from such attacks than 2018, according to the Hiraal Institute, a Mogadishu-based security-think tank. Grieving families on Sunday arranged burials and funerals for their loved ones, having endured the anguish of identifying charred corpses and body fragments at the blast site and at hospitals around the city.

Turkey to evacuate wounded after deadly Mogadishu blast

At least 50 people have died in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-expresses-confidence-in-india-bangladesh-ties-says-both-working-shoulder-to-shoulder-269579">Bangladesh</a> as cold weather continues to sweep across the country, heath officials said.

The country's lowest temperature this year was recorded at 4.5 degrees Celsius early on Sunday in Tetulia, a border town in Bangladesh's north, the weather office said.

At least 17 people died of acute respiratory infection and 33 from diarrhoea and other diseases across Bangladesh from November&nbsp;1 to December&nbsp;28, said Ayesha Akhter, a senior official of the government’s health directorate.

Hospitals have been crowded with people suffering from cold-related illnesses, such as influenza, dehydration and pneumonia, said Ayesha Akhter, she said.

Those on low incomes, particularly labourers, are the worst affected by the cold weather because they lack clothes while many others, especially children and the elderly people, are prone to diseases such as pneumonia, Akhter said.

The weather office said the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-continues-to-shiver-in-cold-wave-270806">cold snap</a>, accompanied by chilly winds and dense fog, week was likely to continue for few more days.

Thick fog forced authorities to divert several flights and delay others, aviation officials said.

At least 50 people have died in Bangladesh as cold weather continues to sweep across the country, heath officials said. The country's lowest temperature this year was recorded at 4.

At least 50 people have died in Bangladesh as cold weather continues to sweep across the country, heath officials said. The country's lowest temperature this year was recorded at 4.5 degrees Celsius early on Sunday in Tetulia, a border town in Bangladesh's north, the weather office said. At least 17 people died of acute respiratory infection and 33 from diarrhoea and other diseases across Bangladesh from November 1 to December 28, said Ayesha Akhter, a senior official of the government’s health directorate. Hospitals have been crowded with people suffering from cold-related illnesses, such as influenza, dehydration and pneumonia, said Ayesha Akhter, she said. Those on low incomes, particularly labourers, are the worst affected by the cold weather because they lack clothes while many others, especially children and the elderly people, are prone to diseases such as pneumonia, Akhter said. The weather office said the cold snap, accompanied by chilly winds and dense fog, week was likely to continue for few more days. Thick fog forced authorities to divert several flights and delay others, aviation officials said.

Cold snap kills 50 in Bangladesh

More than 1,000 people rallied in the rain in a park in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-police-arrest-15-in-fresh-shopping-mall-protests-270781">Hong Kong</a>'s financial district on Sunday, chanting slogans for democracy as they huddled under a sea of umbrellas.

The crowd, a mix of young and elderly people, wore black and turquoise surgical masks to hide their identities as they listened to organisers speaking on a makeshift stage.

"There may be fewer people. We all know that no matter how many people come out or how many times, the government ignores you," said a 30-year-old woman in black clothing surnamed Wong, who works in the legal sector.

"Hong Kongers will never stop. We see unfairness, injustice. It contradicts our fundamental beliefs," she said.

Also Watch: Hong Kong-&nbsp;Several months of continuous unrest, protest against Chinese traders

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Hong Kong has been convulsed by more than <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-target-malls-during-christmas-in-hong-kong-270245">six months of protests</a>, triggered by a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party.

The demonstrations have since evolved into a broader pro-democracy movement and have again became more confrontational over recent days with police clashing with protesters at several shopping malls and busy tourist areas.

On Saturday, riot police arrested about a dozen protesters and used pepper spray to break up a gathering aimed at disrupting retail business near the border with mainland China.

More protests are planned in the next few days, including a countdown to New Year's Day and a march on Jan. 1 that could attract a big crowd.

Protesters are angry about what they see as increased meddling by Beijing in freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997.&nbsp;

China denies interfering, saying it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula put in place at that time, and blames foreign forces for fomenting unrest.&nbsp;

A 20-year old university student who gave his name as Malcolm said it was becoming harder to remain optimistic about the prospect of change.

"More realistic people know there's no way for us to win but now is not the time for us to be pessimistic," he said, adding that he would continue to push for full democracy for Hong Kong.

More than 1,000 people rallied in the rain in a park in Hong Kong's financial district on Sunday, chanting slogans for democracy as they huddled under a sea of umbrellas.

More than 1,000 people rallied in the rain in a park in Hong Kong's financial district on Sunday, chanting slogans for democracy as they huddled under a sea of umbrellas. The crowd, a mix of young and elderly people, wore black and turquoise surgical masks to hide their identities as they listened to organisers speaking on a makeshift stage. "There may be fewer people. We all know that no matter how many people come out or how many times, the government ignores you," said a 30-year-old woman in black clothing surnamed Wong, who works in the legal sector. "Hong Kongers will never stop. We see unfairness, injustice. It contradicts our fundamental beliefs," she said. Also Watch: Hong Kong- Several months of continuous unrest, protest against Chinese traders × Hong Kong has been convulsed by more than six months of protests, triggered by a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party. The demonstrations have since evolved into a broader pro-democracy movement and have again became more confrontational over recent days with police clashing with protesters at several shopping malls and busy tourist areas. On Saturday, riot police arrested about a dozen protesters and used pepper spray to break up a gathering aimed at disrupting retail business near the border with mainland China. More protests are planned in the next few days, including a countdown to New Year's Day and a march on Jan. 1 that could attract a big crowd. Protesters are angry about what they see as increased meddling by Beijing in freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997. China denies interfering, saying it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula put in place at that time, and blames foreign forces for fomenting unrest. A 20-year old university student who gave his name as Malcolm said it was becoming harder to remain optimistic about the prospect of change. "More realistic people know there's no way for us to win but now is not the time for us to be pessimistic," he said, adding that he would continue to push for full democracy for Hong Kong.

More than 1,000 gather for rain-soaked Hong Kong rally

Citing a letter from a young Hong Konger appealing for people "not to believe the Communists", Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said on Sunday the island's democratic way of life was at risk from the danger China posed to Taiwan.

The months of anti-government protests in Chinese-ruled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-police-arrest-15-in-fresh-shopping-mall-protests-270781">Hong Kong</a> have taken centre stage in Taiwan ahead of the January&nbsp;11 presidential and parliamentary elections, with Tsai in particular warning Taiwan would be next if it gives into Chinese pressure and accepts Beijing's rule.

Speaking at a televised presidential debate, Tsai read excerpts from a letter she said she received from a young person in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-paid-17-million-in-allowances-related-to-protests-270751">Hong Kong</a>. She did not name the person nor say when the letter was written.

Tsai read from the letter: "'I ask that Taiwan's people not believe the Chinese Communists, don't believe any pro-Communist official, and don't fall into China's money trap.'"

Taiwan's people have been through their own traumas under martial law before adopting democracy and are now seeing "the end of Hong Kong", Tsai quoted the letter as saying.

Tsai said she wanted to read the letter to remind people of the significance of their vote next month.

"On Jan. 11, the vote in our hands can decide whether our democratic way of life of today can continue. The whole world is watching what Taiwan will do on Jan. 11."

China claims Taiwan as its own territory, to be taken under its control by force if needed. Taiwan says it is an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name.

China says it will run Taiwan under the "one country, two systems" model - the same as used in Hong Kong - granting it a high degree of autonomy.

Tsai and her main opponent Han Kuo-yu from the Kuomintang, which favours close relations with China, have both rejected this model, though Tsai has repeatedly portrayed Han as supporting it.

Han said Tsai was "deceiving" the people of Hong Kong by using their struggle to try and win votes.

"They are bleeding from fighting against China, while you are enjoying electoral gains. Your campaign is based on the blood of Hong Kong people. You are exploiting the values they uphold," he said, citing remarks from a Hong Kong student leader who later apologised for his criticism.

Han also reiterated what has become a frequent complaint, that senior members of Tsai's Democratic Progressive Party and Tsai herself had previously been to China, accusing them of hypocrisy for denouncing a trip he made earlier this year.

"And you slam me for accepting 'one country, two systems' - this is really too much," Han said.

Citing a letter from a young Hong Konger appealing for people "not to believe the Communists", Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said on Sunday the island's democratic way of life was at risk from the danger China posed to Taiwan.

Citing a letter from a young Hong Konger appealing for people "not to believe the Communists", Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said on Sunday the island's democratic way of life was at risk from the danger China posed to Taiwan. The months of anti-government protests in Chinese-ruled Hong Kong have taken centre stage in Taiwan ahead of the January 11 presidential and parliamentary elections, with Tsai in particular warning Taiwan would be next if it gives into Chinese pressure and accepts Beijing's rule. Speaking at a televised presidential debate, Tsai read excerpts from a letter she said she received from a young person in Hong Kong. She did not name the person nor say when the letter was written. Tsai read from the letter: "'I ask that Taiwan's people not believe the Chinese Communists, don't believe any pro-Communist official, and don't fall into China's money trap.'" Taiwan's people have been through their own traumas under martial law before adopting democracy and are now seeing "the end of Hong Kong", Tsai quoted the letter as saying. Tsai said she wanted to read the letter to remind people of the significance of their vote next month. "On Jan. 11, the vote in our hands can decide whether our democratic way of life of today can continue. The whole world is watching what Taiwan will do on Jan. 11." China claims Taiwan as its own territory, to be taken under its control by force if needed. Taiwan says it is an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name. China says it will run Taiwan under the "one country, two systems" model - the same as used in Hong Kong - granting it a high degree of autonomy. Tsai and her main opponent Han Kuo-yu from the Kuomintang, which favours close relations with China, have both rejected this model, though Tsai has repeatedly portrayed Han as supporting it. Han said Tsai was "deceiving" the people of Hong Kong by using their struggle to try and win votes. "They are bleeding from fighting against China, while you are enjoying electoral gains. Your campaign is based on the blood of Hong Kong people. You are exploiting the values they uphold," he said, citing remarks from a Hong Kong student leader who later apologised for his criticism. Han also reiterated what has become a frequent complaint, that senior members of Tsai's Democratic Progressive Party and Tsai herself had previously been to China, accusing them of hypocrisy for denouncing a trip he made earlier this year. "And you slam me for accepting 'one country, two systems' - this is really too much," Han said.

'Don't believe the Communists': Taiwan president channels Hong Kong protests in appeal for votes

At least 90 people were killed and dozens were wounded when a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-death-toll-jumps-to-71-in-car-bomb-attack-in-mogadishu-270750">bomb-laden vehicle exploded</a> at a bustling checkpoint in the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday, an international organisation working in the country said, in one of the most deadly recent attacks.

The dead included many students and two Turkish nationals, the Somali foreign minister said.

Rescuers carried bodies past the twisted wreckage of a vehicle and a minibus taxi smeared with blood.

A report by the international organisation, which did not want to be named, said the death toll was more than 90. A Somali MP also tweeted that he had been told the death toll stands at more than 90, including 17 police officers.

Abdikadir Abdirahman Haji Aden, the founder of Aamin ambulances, told Reuters that dozens of people were also wounded.

No-one immediately claimed responsibility for the blast.

Al Qaeda-linked Islamist group al Shabaab regularly carries out such attacks in an attempt to undermine the government, which is backed by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-nations-slams-myanmar-for-human-rights-abuses-of-rohingya-muslims-passes-resolutions-270753">United Nations</a> and African Union troops.

The most deadly attack blamed on the group was in October 2017 when a bomb-laden truck exploded next to a fuel tanker in Mogadishu, creating a storm of fire that killed nearly 600 people.

While al Shabaab carries out frequent attacks, the death tolls are often lower than in Saturday's blast. The group has sometimes not claimed responsibility for attacks that sparked a big public backlash, such as a 2009 suicide bombing of a graduation ceremony for medical students.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Bomb blast at busy Mogadishu checkpoint claim lives of more that 90, dozens injured

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Three witnesses told Reuters that a small team of Turkish engineers were present at the time of the blast at the Ex-Control checkpoint, constructing a road from the checkpoint into the city.

A car belonging to the engineers was destroyed instantly in the blast, the witnesses said.

Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Awad later tweeted that two of the Turkish engineers died in the blast.

Many of the dead were "students with ambition, and hardworking men and women", he wrote.

Turkey's foreign ministry confirmed the death of two of its nationals.

Turkey has been a major donor to Somalia since a famine in 2011, and together with the government of Qatar is funding a number of infrastructure and medical projects in the country. In 2017, Turkey opened a military base in Mogadishu to train Somali soldiers.

The checkpoint is also a tax collection point for the government, Ali Abdi Ali Hoshow, a foreign affairs ministry official, said on Twitter.

'Screaming for help'&nbsp;

After the explosion, 55-year-old Sabdow Ali, who lives nearby, said he left his house and counted at least 13 people dead.

"Dozens of injured people were screaming for help but the police immediately opened fire and I rushed back to my house," he told Reuters.

The injured were transported to Medina Hospital, where a Reuters witness saw dozens arriving by ambulance. A nurse at the hospital, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the facility had received more than 100 wounded people.

Relatives gathered at the hospital, weeping outside the entrance as they sought information on their loved ones.

Speaking to reporters at the blast site, Mogadishu Mayor Omar Muhamoud said the government confirmed at least 90 civilians, mostly students, had been injured.

Police officials were not immediately available for comment on casualty numbers.

The Horn of Africa country has been riven by conflict since 1991, when clan warlords overthrew dictator Siad Barre and then turned on each other.

Al Shabaab grew out of a political movement that used Islamic courts to try to impose order on the country. U.S.-backed Ethiopian soldiers defeated the Islamic Courts Union in 2006, but the movement's youth wing split off and launched an insurgency.

Al Shabaab pledged loyalty to al Qaeda in 2012, as the insurgency battled African Union peacekeepers.

The group has also carried out attacks in east African countries such as Kenya and Uganda.

At least 90 people were killed and dozens were wounded when a bomb-laden vehicle exploded at a bustling checkpoint in the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday, an international organisation working in the country said, in one of the most deadly recent attacks.

At least 90 people were killed and dozens were wounded when a bomb-laden vehicle exploded at a bustling checkpoint in the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday, an international organisation working in the country said, in one of the most deadly recent attacks. The dead included many students and two Turkish nationals, the Somali foreign minister said. Rescuers carried bodies past the twisted wreckage of a vehicle and a minibus taxi smeared with blood. A report by the international organisation, which did not want to be named, said the death toll was more than 90. A Somali MP also tweeted that he had been told the death toll stands at more than 90, including 17 police officers. Abdikadir Abdirahman Haji Aden, the founder of Aamin ambulances, told Reuters that dozens of people were also wounded. No-one immediately claimed responsibility for the blast. Al Qaeda-linked Islamist group al Shabaab regularly carries out such attacks in an attempt to undermine the government, which is backed by the United Nations and African Union troops. The most deadly attack blamed on the group was in October 2017 when a bomb-laden truck exploded next to a fuel tanker in Mogadishu, creating a storm of fire that killed nearly 600 people. While al Shabaab carries out frequent attacks, the death tolls are often lower than in Saturday's blast. The group has sometimes not claimed responsibility for attacks that sparked a big public backlash, such as a 2009 suicide bombing of a graduation ceremony for medical students. Also Watch: Bomb blast at busy Mogadishu checkpoint claim lives of more that 90, dozens injured × Three witnesses told Reuters that a small team of Turkish engineers were present at the time of the blast at the Ex-Control checkpoint, constructing a road from the checkpoint into the city. A car belonging to the engineers was destroyed instantly in the blast, the witnesses said. Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Awad later tweeted that two of the Turkish engineers died in the blast. Many of the dead were "students with ambition, and hardworking men and women", he wrote. Turkey's foreign ministry confirmed the death of two of its nationals. Turkey has been a major donor to Somalia since a famine in 2011, and together with the government of Qatar is funding a number of infrastructure and medical projects in the country. In 2017, Turkey opened a military base in Mogadishu to train Somali soldiers. The checkpoint is also a tax collection point for the government, Ali Abdi Ali Hoshow, a foreign affairs ministry official, said on Twitter. 'Screaming for help' After the explosion, 55-year-old Sabdow Ali, who lives nearby, said he left his house and counted at least 13 people dead. "Dozens of injured people were screaming for help but the police immediately opened fire and I rushed back to my house," he told Reuters. The injured were transported to Medina Hospital, where a Reuters witness saw dozens arriving by ambulance. A nurse at the hospital, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the facility had received more than 100 wounded people. Relatives gathered at the hospital, weeping outside the entrance as they sought information on their loved ones. Speaking to reporters at the blast site, Mogadishu Mayor Omar Muhamoud said the government confirmed at least 90 civilians, mostly students, had been injured. Police officials were not immediately available for comment on casualty numbers. The Horn of Africa country has been riven by conflict since 1991, when clan warlords overthrew dictator Siad Barre and then turned on each other. Al Shabaab grew out of a political movement that used Islamic courts to try to impose order on the country. U.S.-backed Ethiopian soldiers defeated the Islamic Courts Union in 2006, but the movement's youth wing split off and launched an insurgency. Al Shabaab pledged loyalty to al Qaeda in 2012, as the insurgency battled African Union peacekeepers. The group has also carried out attacks in east African countries such as Kenya and Uganda.

At least 90 people killed in Mogadishu checkpoint blast in Somalia: Report

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte named two new ministers on Saturday to replace his education minister who resigned this week and outlined an ambitious agenda for next year including reform of the justice system and state bureaucracy.

In a three-hour year-end news conference, Conte accused right-wing opposition leader Matteo Salvini of "insidious" political behaviour and appealed for unity from the fractious coalition backing his own government.

"Politics doesn't need conflicts. Polemics and marking out our differences don't help us," Conte said in reference to the frequent bickering between the 5-Star Movement, the centre-left Democratic Party (PD) and smaller centrist and leftist parties.

Filling the gap left after Education Minister Lorenzo Fioramonti from the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement quit on Wednesday complaining of insufficient funding, Conte said he was dividing the ministry into two.

He named Lucia Azzolina, also from 5-Star and previously Fioramonti's junior minister, as the new minister for schools, and named a non-party technocrat Gaetano Manfredi, the rector of Naples University, as minister for universities and research.

Three 5-Star senators quit this month to join Salvini's League party and some politicians say other lawmakers from the increasingly divided movement are ready to join a new parliamentary group led by Fioramonti but loyal to Conte.

The prime minister said if any such moves were afoot he disapproved of them and had nothing to do with them.

"I don't want parliamentarians using my name to form a new group that would only make the government less stable," he said.

Conte, an unaffiliated technocrat, was originally close to 5-Star but has received growing praise from the PD since the government was formed in September, and he is now sometimes tipped as a future centre-left leader.

Conte said he would meet with the ruling parties in January to detail priorities for 2020, promising an overhaul of the state bureaucracy that was sure to meet with opposition but would make the system more efficient.

"A lot of people won't be happy," he said. "When you tell a public department to do in 30 days what it has been doing in 60 this creates resistance."

Among the government's first hurdles is a justice system reform, which sees Conte in the difficult role of arbiter between 5-Star and the PD.

A reform championed by 5-Star to relax time limits on the prosecution of crimes is due to kick in from January, but it is opposed by the PD which says defendants would face years of legal uncertainty while their trials continue interminably.

Conte said the dispute would be resolved thanks to new rules to be unveiled soon that would streamline the justice system and "ensure trials are completed within a reasonable time."

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte named two new ministers on Saturday to replace his education minister who resigned this week and outlined an ambitious agenda for next year including reform of the justice system and state bureaucracy.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte named two new ministers on Saturday to replace his education minister who resigned this week and outlined an ambitious agenda for next year including reform of the justice system and state bureaucracy. In a three-hour year-end news conference, Conte accused right-wing opposition leader Matteo Salvini of "insidious" political behaviour and appealed for unity from the fractious coalition backing his own government. "Politics doesn't need conflicts. Polemics and marking out our differences don't help us," Conte said in reference to the frequent bickering between the 5-Star Movement, the centre-left Democratic Party (PD) and smaller centrist and leftist parties. Filling the gap left after Education Minister Lorenzo Fioramonti from the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement quit on Wednesday complaining of insufficient funding, Conte said he was dividing the ministry into two. He named Lucia Azzolina, also from 5-Star and previously Fioramonti's junior minister, as the new minister for schools, and named a non-party technocrat Gaetano Manfredi, the rector of Naples University, as minister for universities and research. Three 5-Star senators quit this month to join Salvini's League party and some politicians say other lawmakers from the increasingly divided movement are ready to join a new parliamentary group led by Fioramonti but loyal to Conte. The prime minister said if any such moves were afoot he disapproved of them and had nothing to do with them. "I don't want parliamentarians using my name to form a new group that would only make the government less stable," he said. Conte, an unaffiliated technocrat, was originally close to 5-Star but has received growing praise from the PD since the government was formed in September, and he is now sometimes tipped as a future centre-left leader. Conte said he would meet with the ruling parties in January to detail priorities for 2020, promising an overhaul of the state bureaucracy that was sure to meet with opposition but would make the system more efficient. "A lot of people won't be happy," he said. "When you tell a public department to do in 30 days what it has been doing in 60 this creates resistance." Among the government's first hurdles is a justice system reform, which sees Conte in the difficult role of arbiter between 5-Star and the PD. A reform championed by 5-Star to relax time limits on the prosecution of crimes is due to kick in from January, but it is opposed by the PD which says defendants would face years of legal uncertainty while their trials continue interminably. Conte said the dispute would be resolved thanks to new rules to be unveiled soon that would streamline the justice system and "ensure trials are completed within a reasonable time."

Italian PM Conte names new ministers, sets policy agenda for 2020

US&nbsp;Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden on Saturday said there would be "no legal basis" for Republicans to subpoena his testimony in President Donald Trump's impeachment trial, clarifying remarks from Friday that drew criticism.

"I want to clarify something I said yesterday. In my 40 years in public life, I have always complied with a lawful order and in my eight years as VP, my office — unlike Donald Trump and Mike Pence — cooperated with legitimate congressional oversight requests," Biden said on Twitter.

"But I am just not going to pretend that there is any legal basis for Republican subpoenas for my testimony in the impeachment trial," Biden added.

The statement came one day after Biden said in an interview with the Des Moines Register that he would not comply with a Senate subpoena because it would be a tactic by Trump to distract from the president's wrongdoing.

Some legal experts and commentators had criticized Biden for his remarks to the Iowa newspaper, noting that the White House's refusal to comply with congressional subpoenas was part of the reason why Trump had been impeached.

Trump was impeached on December&nbsp;18 by the Democratic-led House of Representatives on two charges over his pressuring Ukraine to announce an investigation of Biden, a former vice president and a top contender for the Democratic presidential nomination, and Biden’s son. Trump has been charged with abuse of power and obstructing Congress’ investigation.

Trump has said he did nothing wrong.

A trial is anticipated in the Republican-controlled Senate to determine whether Trump should be removed from office. However, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has not yet transmitted the articles of impeachment to the upper chamber in a bid to pressure Republicans to reach an accord with the Democrats on trial rules.

Trump has raised unsubstantiated charges that Biden improperly tried to halt a Ukrainian probe of a company with ties to his son, and has said he wants Biden to testify in the impeachment trial.

Ross Garber, a Washington lawyer specializing in impeachment proceedings, said it was "incredibly unlikely" that Republican senators would back an effort to push for Biden's testimony.

US Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden on Saturday said there would be "no legal basis" for Republicans to subpoena his testimony in President Donald Trump's impeachment trial, clarifying remarks from Friday that drew criticism.

US Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden on Saturday said there would be "no legal basis" for Republicans to subpoena his testimony in President Donald Trump's impeachment trial, clarifying remarks from Friday that drew criticism. "I want to clarify something I said yesterday. In my 40 years in public life, I have always complied with a lawful order and in my eight years as VP, my office — unlike Donald Trump and Mike Pence — cooperated with legitimate congressional oversight requests," Biden said on Twitter. "But I am just not going to pretend that there is any legal basis for Republican subpoenas for my testimony in the impeachment trial," Biden added. The statement came one day after Biden said in an interview with the Des Moines Register that he would not comply with a Senate subpoena because it would be a tactic by Trump to distract from the president's wrongdoing. Some legal experts and commentators had criticized Biden for his remarks to the Iowa newspaper, noting that the White House's refusal to comply with congressional subpoenas was part of the reason why Trump had been impeached. Trump was impeached on December 18 by the Democratic-led House of Representatives on two charges over his pressuring Ukraine to announce an investigation of Biden, a former vice president and a top contender for the Democratic presidential nomination, and Biden’s son. Trump has been charged with abuse of power and obstructing Congress’ investigation. Trump has said he did nothing wrong. A trial is anticipated in the Republican-controlled Senate to determine whether Trump should be removed from office. However, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has not yet transmitted the articles of impeachment to the upper chamber in a bid to pressure Republicans to reach an accord with the Democrats on trial rules. Trump has raised unsubstantiated charges that Biden improperly tried to halt a Ukrainian probe of a company with ties to his son, and has said he wants Biden to testify in the impeachment trial. Ross Garber, a Washington lawyer specializing in impeachment proceedings, said it was "incredibly unlikely" that Republican senators would back an effort to push for Biden's testimony.

Facing blowback, Biden clarifies stance on impeachment trial testimony

Cooling operations are underway at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-level-three-fire-breaks-out-at-a-factory-in-ghatkopar-15-fire-tenders-on-spot-270637">factory in Ghatkopar area</a> where a fire broke out on Friday evening.

In the incident, two people including a woman died while one went missing.

As many as 15 fire tenders were rushed to Ghatkopar area after the blaze broke out.

Earlier, Vijaykumar Panigrahi, Deputy Chief Fire Officer said that the level-four fire has been controlled and cooling operations are underway. The reason for the fire is yet to be ascertained.&nbsp;

Cooling operations are underway at the factory in Ghatkopar area where a fire broke out on Friday evening. In the incident, two people including a woman died while one went missing.

Cooling operations are underway at the factory in Ghatkopar area where a fire broke out on Friday evening. In the incident, two people including a woman died while one went missing. As many as 15 fire tenders were rushed to Ghatkopar area after the blaze broke out. Earlier, Vijaykumar Panigrahi, Deputy Chief Fire Officer said that the level-four fire has been controlled and cooling operations are underway. The reason for the fire is yet to be ascertained.

Cooling operations underway at Ghatkopar factory where blaze killed 2

Ayodhya District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha on Thursday said Section 144, which prohibits an assembly of more than 4 people in an area, will remain in force in the district till February 25.

The decision came amid violent protests in Uttar Pradesh over the amended Citizenship Act, which grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

Under the prohibitory orders, people will have to take the permission of the administration for organising any programme in Ayodhya.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh police on Wednesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-police-beef-up-security-in-ayodhya-270256">beefed up security in the temple town of Ayodhya</a> and kept a tab on the movement of suspicious vehicles crossing through the city.

According to Circle Officer (CO) Amar Singh, security was beefed up in the city and the vehicles passing through Ayodhya were being checked.

"Routine checking is done with the same approach. Apart from that, the police is also interrogating suspicious people. Back seats of the vehicles are also being checked," Singh said.

He added, "There is no specific inputs as of now. Checking is being carried out from every point of view."

Ayodhya District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha on Thursday said Section 144, which prohibits an assembly of more than 4 people in an area, will remain in force in the district till February 25.

Ayodhya District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha on Thursday said Section 144, which prohibits an assembly of more than 4 people in an area, will remain in force in the district till February 25. The decision came amid violent protests in Uttar Pradesh over the amended Citizenship Act, which grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who came to India on or before December 31, 2014. Under the prohibitory orders, people will have to take the permission of the administration for organising any programme in Ayodhya. Uttar Pradesh police on Wednesday beefed up security in the temple town of Ayodhya and kept a tab on the movement of suspicious vehicles crossing through the city. According to Circle Officer (CO) Amar Singh, security was beefed up in the city and the vehicles passing through Ayodhya were being checked. "Routine checking is done with the same approach. Apart from that, the police is also interrogating suspicious people. Back seats of the vehicles are also being checked," Singh said. He added, "There is no specific inputs as of now. Checking is being carried out from every point of view."

Uttar Pradesh: Section 144 extended for security in Ayodhya till 25 February

Hong Kong riot police arrested at least 15 people in clashes Saturday with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-paid-17-million-in-allowances-related-to-protests-270751">dozens of pro-democracy protestors</a> who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-target-malls-during-christmas-in-hong-kong-270245">targeted a mall</a> near the border with China to demonstrate against mainland tourists and shoppers.

The fresh unrest ended a brief calm after protestors had battled riot police in shopping malls and streets of commercial districts across the city for three days over the Christmas period.

On Saturday afternoon, masked plain-clothed officers wielding batons arrested 14 people, including a 14-year-old girl, who were protesting inside the mall in Sheung Shui district, forcing shops to shut and harassing shoppers, an AFP reporter at the scene said.

Riot police charged into the mall to reinforce the officers and used pepper spray to disperse a crowd of residents who gathered to protest against the arrests.

After the police left, some protesters stayed on a footbridge linking the mall to an MTR metro station and harassed passers-by they thought were mainland Chinese tourists.

Another man was arrested by riot police in a later incident inside the mall, his head covered in blood.

Similar protests and clashes also took place in a mall in Kowloon Bay district, where a number of people were arrested Saturday evening.

Blood and a black mask were seen by an AFP reporter on the floor where plain-clothed police subdued protesters in the mall.

In recent years Sheung Shui has been swamped by a huge influx of mainlanders and parallel traders seeking to circumvent Chinese taxes, angering many residents who have seen their local shops transformed to cater to the visitors.

Hong Kong's many malls have become regular protest venues as protesters try to cause economic disruption in their push for greater democratic freedoms and police accountability.

The last month had seen a relative drop-off in violence and protests after pro-democracy candidates won a landslide at local elections.

But with Beijing and city leaders refusing further concessions, rallies and clashes reignited over the Christmas period.

The protests were initially sparked by a now-abandoned attempt to allow extraditions to the authoritarian mainland.

They have since morphed into a popular revolt against Beijing's rule, with spiralling fears that the city is losing some of its unique liberties.

Among the demands being made by protesters is an inquiry into the police, an amnesty for the more than 6,000 people arrested and the right to elect Hong Kong's leader.

Hong Kong riot police arrested at least 15 people in clashes Saturday with dozens of pro-democracy protestors who targeted a mall near the border with China to demonstrate against mainland tourists and shoppers.

Hong Kong riot police arrested at least 15 people in clashes Saturday with dozens of pro-democracy protestors who targeted a mall near the border with China to demonstrate against mainland tourists and shoppers. The fresh unrest ended a brief calm after protestors had battled riot police in shopping malls and streets of commercial districts across the city for three days over the Christmas period. On Saturday afternoon, masked plain-clothed officers wielding batons arrested 14 people, including a 14-year-old girl, who were protesting inside the mall in Sheung Shui district, forcing shops to shut and harassing shoppers, an AFP reporter at the scene said. Riot police charged into the mall to reinforce the officers and used pepper spray to disperse a crowd of residents who gathered to protest against the arrests. After the police left, some protesters stayed on a footbridge linking the mall to an MTR metro station and harassed passers-by they thought were mainland Chinese tourists. Another man was arrested by riot police in a later incident inside the mall, his head covered in blood. Similar protests and clashes also took place in a mall in Kowloon Bay district, where a number of people were arrested Saturday evening. Blood and a black mask were seen by an AFP reporter on the floor where plain-clothed police subdued protesters in the mall. In recent years Sheung Shui has been swamped by a huge influx of mainlanders and parallel traders seeking to circumvent Chinese taxes, angering many residents who have seen their local shops transformed to cater to the visitors. Hong Kong's many malls have become regular protest venues as protesters try to cause economic disruption in their push for greater democratic freedoms and police accountability. The last month had seen a relative drop-off in violence and protests after pro-democracy candidates won a landslide at local elections. But with Beijing and city leaders refusing further concessions, rallies and clashes reignited over the Christmas period. The protests were initially sparked by a now-abandoned attempt to allow extraditions to the authoritarian mainland. They have since morphed into a popular revolt against Beijing's rule, with spiralling fears that the city is losing some of its unique liberties. Among the demands being made by protesters is an inquiry into the police, an amnesty for the more than 6,000 people arrested and the right to elect Hong Kong's leader.

Hong Kong unrest: Police arrest 15 in fresh shopping mall protests

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu today called for an enlightened debate on all larger issues and stressed that dissent has to be expressed in a democratic and non-violent manner.

"Constitutional methods and violence do not go together," he said, while paying <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-polity-misses-him-amit-shah-remembers-jaitley-on-his-birth-anniversary-270771">rich tributes to Arun Jaitley on his birth anniversary</a> on Saturday and went down the memory lane recalling his long association with him.

Releasing a book titled 'The Renaissance Man - The Many Facets of Arun Jaitley' Naidu said that even months after the passing away of his closest friend, he found it difficult to come to terms with the bitter fact that Jaitley was no more.

He said, "Whenever there is a need for enlightened debate, Jaitley will be missed."

Describing Jaitley as a thorough gentleman and a man of impeccable integrity, Naidu said that he never compromised on principles and was a staunch opponent of corruption.

Stating that Jaitley was a shining example of a leader with 4Cs -- Character, Calibre, Capacity, and Conduct, VP expressed concerns that there was a worrisome trend in politics with people bringing in other 4Cs- Caste, Community, Criminality, and Cash.

Describing Jaitley as "a multi-faceted genius and a powerhouse of knowledge with a sharp analytical mind," Naidu recalled his ability to communicate effectively and explain even the most complex matters in a simple, lucid manner.

Referring to Jaitley's deft handling of the economy at a critical time, the Vice President said that his persuasive skills and the spirit of camaraderie were in full display to evolve a consensus during the tough negotiations with states for the GST.

The Vice President also referred to various measures taken by Jaitley as Union Finance Minister to ensure that the banking sector did not slip into a deeper morass due to NPAs. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code introduced during his tenure proved to be a revolutionary step, he said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu today called for an enlightened debate on all larger issues and stressed that dissent has to be expressed in a democratic and non-violent manner.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu today called for an enlightened debate on all larger issues and stressed that dissent has to be expressed in a democratic and non-violent manner. "Constitutional methods and violence do not go together," he said, while paying rich tributes to Arun Jaitley on his birth anniversary on Saturday and went down the memory lane recalling his long association with him. Releasing a book titled 'The Renaissance Man - The Many Facets of Arun Jaitley' Naidu said that even months after the passing away of his closest friend, he found it difficult to come to terms with the bitter fact that Jaitley was no more. He said, "Whenever there is a need for enlightened debate, Jaitley will be missed." Describing Jaitley as a thorough gentleman and a man of impeccable integrity, Naidu said that he never compromised on principles and was a staunch opponent of corruption. Stating that Jaitley was a shining example of a leader with 4Cs -- Character, Calibre, Capacity, and Conduct, VP expressed concerns that there was a worrisome trend in politics with people bringing in other 4Cs- Caste, Community, Criminality, and Cash. Describing Jaitley as "a multi-faceted genius and a powerhouse of knowledge with a sharp analytical mind," Naidu recalled his ability to communicate effectively and explain even the most complex matters in a simple, lucid manner. Referring to Jaitley's deft handling of the economy at a critical time, the Vice President said that his persuasive skills and the spirit of camaraderie were in full display to evolve a consensus during the tough negotiations with states for the GST. The Vice President also referred to various measures taken by Jaitley as Union Finance Minister to ensure that the banking sector did not slip into a deeper morass due to NPAs. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code introduced during his tenure proved to be a revolutionary step, he said.

Dissent should be expressed in a democratic, non-violent manner: Vice President

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