Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial resumed on Monday (Dec 4) amid the nation's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-200-hamas-terror-targets-struck-claims-idf-666026">ongoing war against Hamas</a>, which is a Palestine-based militant group.&nbsp;

The trial was suspended two months ago when Israel launched war terming it a retaliatory action to Hamas' October 7 attack, which killed around 1,200 people, according to Israeli officials.&nbsp;

Netanyahu is accused of fraud and breach of trust over his relationship with Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan and other wealthy personalities.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-yonatan-samerano-abducted-during-music-festival-confirmed-dead-in-hamas-captivity-666047">Israeli hostage Jonatan Samerano abducted during music festival, confirmed dead in Hamas captivity</a>&nbsp;

The prosecutors have said that Netanyahu allegedly received gifts valued at 700,000 shekels ($195,000) between 2007 and 2016. The gifts included boxes of cigars, bottles of champagne and jewellery, in exchange for financial or personal favours.

The leader of Israel's right-wing Likud party has denied the claims and said that the gifts were only accepted by friends and without him having asked for them.&nbsp;

Netanyahu is Israel's first sitting prime minister to stand trial and in October 2019, his lawyers said they had received an expert legal opinion that concluded he had a right to accept gifts from close friends.&nbsp;

Netanyahu is suspected of promoting a tax project in return that would have brought Milchan millions of dollars. The finance ministry has since vetoed this proposal.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-revolutionary-guard-chiefs-open-threat-to-israel-you-will-collapse-in-48-hrs-if-666008">Iran Revolutionary Guard chief's open threat to Israel: 'You will collapse in 48 hours if...'</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Over 700 killed in last 24 hours as Israel expands ground offensive in Gaza&nbsp;

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<h2>October 7 attack&nbsp;</h2>

During the October 7 attack, Hamas had also taken around 250 as hostages, around 100 of which were released during the recent week-long pause in fighting in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;

Israel said that around 130 hostages still remained in Gaza but the country has not provided evidence to support its estimate. Reports have also claimed that some Israeli hostages are unaccounted for.&nbsp;

Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas and began an air, sea and ground offensive that has killed more than 15,500 people, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Netanyahu 'will be tried as war criminal'&nbsp;</h2>

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that Netanyahu would eventually be tried as a war criminal over Israel's ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip. He also slammed the Western countries supporting Israel.&nbsp;

In a speech to an Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) committee meeting in Istanbul, Erdogan said the Western nations supporting Israel were giving it "unconditional support to kill babies" and were complicit in its crimes.&nbsp;

"Beyond being a war criminal, Netanyahu, who is the butcher of Gaza right now, will be tried as the butcher of Gaza, just as Milosevic was tried," Erdogan said, in reference to Yugoslav ex-President Slobodan Milosevic who was tried for genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes at a tribunal in The Hague.&nbsp;

"Those who try to skip over the deaths of all those innocent people by using the excuse of Hamas have nothing left to say to humanity," he added.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial resumed on Monday (Dec 4) amid the nation's ongoing war against Hamas, which is a Palestine-based militant group.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial resumed on Monday (Dec 4) amid the nation's ongoing war against Hamas, which is a Palestine-based militant group. The trial was suspended two months ago when Israel launched war terming it a retaliatory action to Hamas' October 7 attack, which killed around 1,200 people, according to Israeli officials. Netanyahu is accused of fraud and breach of trust over his relationship with Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan and other wealthy personalities. Also read: Israeli hostage Jonatan Samerano abducted during music festival, confirmed dead in Hamas captivity The prosecutors have said that Netanyahu allegedly received gifts valued at 700,000 shekels ($195,000) between 2007 and 2016. The gifts included boxes of cigars, bottles of champagne and jewellery, in exchange for financial or personal favours. The leader of Israel's right-wing Likud party has denied the claims and said that the gifts were only accepted by friends and without him having asked for them. Netanyahu is Israel's first sitting prime minister to stand trial and in October 2019, his lawyers said they had received an expert legal opinion that concluded he had a right to accept gifts from close friends. Netanyahu is suspected of promoting a tax project in return that would have brought Milchan millions of dollars. The finance ministry has since vetoed this proposal. Also read: Iran Revolutionary Guard chief's open threat to Israel: 'You will collapse in 48 hours if...' Watch: Over 700 killed in last 24 hours as Israel expands ground offensive in Gaza × October 7 attack During the October 7 attack, Hamas had also taken around 250 as hostages, around 100 of which were released during the recent week-long pause in fighting in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners. Israel said that around 130 hostages still remained in Gaza but the country has not provided evidence to support its estimate. Reports have also claimed that some Israeli hostages are unaccounted for. Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas and began an air, sea and ground offensive that has killed more than 15,500 people, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza. Netanyahu 'will be tried as war criminal' Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that Netanyahu would eventually be tried as a war criminal over Israel's ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip. He also slammed the Western countries supporting Israel. In a speech to an Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) committee meeting in Istanbul, Erdogan said the Western nations supporting Israel were giving it "unconditional support to kill babies" and were complicit in its crimes. "Beyond being a war criminal, Netanyahu, who is the butcher of Gaza right now, will be tried as the butcher of Gaza, just as Milosevic was tried," Erdogan said, in reference to Yugoslav ex-President Slobodan Milosevic who was tried for genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes at a tribunal in The Hague. "Those who try to skip over the deaths of all those innocent people by using the excuse of Hamas have nothing left to say to humanity," he added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel-Hamas war: PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s graft trial resumes in Israel

China on Monday (Dec 4) accused the United States of escalating tensions in the South China Sea after it claimed that an American combat ship "illegally" entered waters near the Second Thomas Shoal, which is a disputed atoll.&nbsp;

Beijing also described the US as "the biggest threat to peace and stability" in the region. Notably, China refers to Second Thomas Shoal as Renai Reef and it is about 200 kilometres from the western Philippine island of Palawan.&nbsp;

The disputed South China Sea atoll is more than 1,000 kilometres from China's nearest major landmass, Hainan Island.&nbsp;

In a statement, a spokesperson for China's Southern Theatre Command said: "The United States has deliberately disrupted the South China Sea, seriously violated China's sovereignty and security, severely undermined regional peace and stability, and seriously violated international law and basic norms governing international relations."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-defence-contractors-register-stellar-profit-for-fourth-consecutive-year-in-a-row-sipri-666019">China defence contractors register stellar profit for fourth consecutive year in a row: SIPRI</a>&nbsp;

Southern Theatre Command spokesman Tian Junli said: "On December 4, littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords illegally entered the waters adjacent to Ren'ai Reef in the Nansha region of China without the approval of the Chinese government."&nbsp;

Tian further said that China's military on Monday "followed the entire operation" and also added that the "deliberate stirring up of the South China Sea by the United States is a serious infringement of China's sovereignty and security".&nbsp;

"Troops in the theatre of command maintain a high state of alert at all times, resolutely defending national sovereignty and security," Tian added.&nbsp;

As translated by the news agency Reuters, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said: "The Whitsun Reef is part of China's Nansha Islands, and the relevant waters in the South China Sea, including the Whitsun Reef and its neighbouring waters, have always been an important operating area and shelter for Chinese fishing vessels."&nbsp;

"It is reasonable and lawful for Chinese fishing vessels to operate in and take shelter from the wind in those waters, the Philippines should not make irresponsible remarks about it," Wang added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prominent-jailed-hong-kong-activist-agnes-chow-moves-to-canada-breaks-silence-after-more-than-2-years-665978">Prominent jailed Hong Kong activist Agnes Chow moves to Canada, breaks silence after more than 2 years</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US Navy destroyer shoots down three drones in Red Sea that hit commercial ships by missiles &amp; drones&nbsp;

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<h2>South China Sea conflict&nbsp;</h2>

Territorial disputes in the South China Sea grab the attention of the world. It involves conflicting island and maritime claims in the region by several sovereign states, namely Brunei, China Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Vietnam.&nbsp;

Beijing has ignored a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague that its claims to almost the entire sea have no legal basis.&nbsp;

In recent years, China has ramped up patrols of the waters and reefs in the South China Sea and built artificial islands that it has militarised to reinforce its assertion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Monday (Dec 4) accused the United States of escalating tensions in the South China Sea after it claimed that an American combat ship "illegally" entered waters near the Second Thomas Shoal, which is a disputed atoll.

China on Monday (Dec 4) accused the United States of escalating tensions in the South China Sea after it claimed that an American combat ship "illegally" entered waters near the Second Thomas Shoal, which is a disputed atoll. Beijing also described the US as "the biggest threat to peace and stability" in the region. Notably, China refers to Second Thomas Shoal as Renai Reef and it is about 200 kilometres from the western Philippine island of Palawan. The disputed South China Sea atoll is more than 1,000 kilometres from China's nearest major landmass, Hainan Island. In a statement, a spokesperson for China's Southern Theatre Command said: "The United States has deliberately disrupted the South China Sea, seriously violated China's sovereignty and security, severely undermined regional peace and stability, and seriously violated international law and basic norms governing international relations." Also read: China defence contractors register stellar profit for fourth consecutive year in a row: SIPRI Southern Theatre Command spokesman Tian Junli said: "On December 4, littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords illegally entered the waters adjacent to Ren'ai Reef in the Nansha region of China without the approval of the Chinese government." Tian further said that China's military on Monday "followed the entire operation" and also added that the "deliberate stirring up of the South China Sea by the United States is a serious infringement of China's sovereignty and security". "Troops in the theatre of command maintain a high state of alert at all times, resolutely defending national sovereignty and security," Tian added. As translated by the news agency Reuters, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said: "The Whitsun Reef is part of China's Nansha Islands, and the relevant waters in the South China Sea, including the Whitsun Reef and its neighbouring waters, have always been an important operating area and shelter for Chinese fishing vessels." "It is reasonable and lawful for Chinese fishing vessels to operate in and take shelter from the wind in those waters, the Philippines should not make irresponsible remarks about it," Wang added. Also read: Prominent jailed Hong Kong activist Agnes Chow moves to Canada, breaks silence after more than 2 years Watch: US Navy destroyer shoots down three drones in Red Sea that hit commercial ships by missiles & drones × South China Sea conflict Territorial disputes in the South China Sea grab the attention of the world. It involves conflicting island and maritime claims in the region by several sovereign states, namely Brunei, China Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Vietnam. Beijing has ignored a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague that its claims to almost the entire sea have no legal basis. In recent years, China has ramped up patrols of the waters and reefs in the South China Sea and built artificial islands that it has militarised to reinforce its assertion. (With inputs from agencies)

China slams US for 'illegally' entering waters near disputed Second Thomas Shoal

The Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu are on orange alert for cyclone Michaung. Rains lashed parts of Southern India as a tropical Cyclone began its approach towards the region. Both states are bracing themselves for the Cyclone to make landfall on December 5th.

India: Red alert in 10 districts, thousands evacuate as Cyclone Michaung nears

Paul Whelan, the former active duty US Marine, who has been jailed in Russia on espionage charges, was reportedly assaulted on Tuesday (Nov 28) by a fellow inmate, his family said.&nbsp;

The United States claims that Whelan was wrongfully detained by Russia. He is currently at the labour camp where he has been serving a 16-year sentence since 2018.&nbsp;

As quoted in media, his brother David Whelan said on Tuesday that Whelan was "hit in the face" by a new prisoner, who broke his glasses.&nbsp;

He further informed that the incident occurred in a clothing workshop in the Mordovia penal colony in central Russia. He said that guards do not enter that part of the prison, and other inmates eventually came to Whelan's aid.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alex-murdaugh-sentenced-to-additional-27-years-in-state-prison-for-financial-crimes-664110">Alex Murdaugh sentenced to additional 27 years in state prison for financial crimes</a>&nbsp;

David said in an email that Paul detailed the incident in a phone call to his parents. He&nbsp;further added&nbsp;Paul as saying that a fellow prisoner blocked part of a production line as he was working at a sewing table.&nbsp;

When Paul asked the other prisoner to move, "the prisoner hit Paul in the face, breaking Paul's glasses in the process, and attempted to hit him a second time," his brother wrote.&nbsp;

David added in the mail: "Paul stood up to block the second hit and other prisoners intervened to prevent the prisoner from continuing to attack Paul".&nbsp;

David also stated that his brother described the attack as "relatively minor".&nbsp;

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He added that "Paul is a target because he is an American, and anti-American sentiment is not uncommon among the other prisoners".&nbsp;

He admitted in the mail that "Paul says he believes the prison administration is taking the attack seriously".&nbsp;

CBS News said that a State Department spokesperson told the outlet that the US Embassy in Moscow has taken stock of the matter. They have been in contact with Paul over the phone and he is receiving medical treatment.&nbsp;

"We call on Russia to ensure Paul Whelan and all US&nbsp;citizen detainees are safe. We urge the Russian government to ensure fair treatment and appropriate medical care for all US&nbsp;citizens detained in Russia. Russia should immediately release Paul Whelan," the spokesperson said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-serial-killers-widow-on-trial-over-decades-old-murders-664027">French serial killer's widow on trial over decades-old murders</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Paul Whelan's arrest&nbsp;</h2>

Whelan was working in security for a US vehicle parts firm and has always claimed that the evidence against him was manufactured when he was arrested in Moscow in 2018. In&nbsp;2020, he was sentenced to 16 years in prison.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Paul Whelan, the former active duty US Marine, who has been jailed in Russia on espionage charges, was reportedly assaulted on Tuesday (Nov 28) by a fellow inmate, his family said.

Paul Whelan, the former active duty US Marine, who has been jailed in Russia on espionage charges, was reportedly assaulted on Tuesday (Nov 28) by a fellow inmate, his family said. The United States claims that Whelan was wrongfully detained by Russia. He is currently at the labour camp where he has been serving a 16-year sentence since 2018. As quoted in media, his brother David Whelan said on Tuesday that Whelan was "hit in the face" by a new prisoner, who broke his glasses. He further informed that the incident occurred in a clothing workshop in the Mordovia penal colony in central Russia. He said that guards do not enter that part of the prison, and other inmates eventually came to Whelan's aid. Also read: Alex Murdaugh sentenced to additional 27 years in state prison for financial crimes David said in an email that Paul detailed the incident in a phone call to his parents. He further added Paul as saying that a fellow prisoner blocked part of a production line as he was working at a sewing table. When Paul asked the other prisoner to move, "the prisoner hit Paul in the face, breaking Paul's glasses in the process, and attempted to hit him a second time," his brother wrote. David added in the mail: "Paul stood up to block the second hit and other prisoners intervened to prevent the prisoner from continuing to attack Paul". David also stated that his brother described the attack as "relatively minor". Also read: Politically powerful Koch network puts weight behind Haley in GOP prez race He added that "Paul is a target because he is an American, and anti-American sentiment is not uncommon among the other prisoners". He admitted in the mail that "Paul says he believes the prison administration is taking the attack seriously". CBS News said that a State Department spokesperson told the outlet that the US Embassy in Moscow has taken stock of the matter. They have been in contact with Paul over the phone and he is receiving medical treatment. "We call on Russia to ensure Paul Whelan and all US citizen detainees are safe. We urge the Russian government to ensure fair treatment and appropriate medical care for all US citizens detained in Russia. Russia should immediately release Paul Whelan," the spokesperson said in a statement. Also read: French serial killer's widow on trial over decades-old murders Paul Whelan's arrest Whelan was working in security for a US vehicle parts firm and has always claimed that the evidence against him was manufactured when he was arrested in Moscow in 2018. In 2020, he was sentenced to 16 years in prison. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-US Marine Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, assaulted by fellow inmate

Is there any planet with life? Are there aliens? Is water available on another planet? Scientists and experts have launched various probes to find answers to these intriguing questions.&nbsp;

One of them was the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which is the world's largest and most powerful telescope ever launched into space.&nbsp;

In research published on Monday (Nov 27) in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-023-02140-4?utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=commission_junction&amp;utm_campaign=CONR_PF018_ECOM_GL_PHSS_ALWYS_DEEPLINK&amp;utm_content=textlink&amp;utm_term=PID100052171&amp;CJEVENT=3c132c928ec811ee823300670a18ba73">Nature Astronomy</a>, the scientists have noted what makes it difficult to identify water on alien worlds.&nbsp;

The research, titled "Optical properties of organic haze analogues in water-rich exoplanet atmospheres observable with JWST", stated that hazy atmospheres of exoplanets create hurdles for scientists.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/supermassive-black-hole-in-our-galaxy-spinning-rapidly-altering-space-time-around-it-scientists-664371">Supermassive black hole in our galaxy spinning rapidly, altering space-time around it: scientists</a>

During its journey so far, James Webb has done atmospheric characterisation of transiting exoplanets.&nbsp;

It observed some of the exoplanets to have equilibrium temperatures below 1,000 K, which is a regime where "photochemical hazes are expected to form".&nbsp;

However, scientists need clear image to analyse what's present in the atmosphere of exoplanets - but something as trivial as haze is making it difficult.&nbsp;

In common language, haze means an aggregation in the atmosphere of very fine, widely dispersed, solid or liquid particles, or both. It turns the air into an opalescent appearance that subdues colours.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/cia-has-recovered-ufos-and-at-least-nine-of-them-report-664376">CIA has recovered UFOs, and at least nine of them: Report</a>

This is a very common phenomenon because of the pollution and smog. People living in the Indian capital New Delhi are well aware of this situation.&nbsp;

The hazes control how they interact with light depending upon their optical properties. The process is critical for interpreting exoplanet observations.&nbsp;

However, scientists have been simulating these hazy conditions in Earth-based laboratories in order to solve this issue.&nbsp;

Chao He, who is a researcher at Johns Hopkins University and lead author of a study on these simulations, said in a statement quoted by Space.com: "Water is the first thing we look for when we're trying to see if a planet is habitable, and there are already exciting observations of water in exoplanet atmospheres."&nbsp;

"But our experiments and modeling suggest these planets most likely also contain haze," Chao added.&nbsp;

One of the major goals of James Webb is to solve mysteries in our solar system and look beyond to distant worlds around other stars. It also probed the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it.&nbsp;

He added, "This haze really complicates our observations, as it clouds our view of an exoplanet’s atmospheric chemistry and molecular features." &nbsp;

The researchers have said that the study emphasizes the need to "investigate the optical properties of hazes formed in different exoplanet atmospheres and establishes a practical procedure for determining such properties".&nbsp;

Is there any planet with life? Are there aliens? Is water available on another planet? Scientists and experts have launched various probes to find answers to these intriguing questions.

Is there any planet with life? Are there aliens? Is water available on another planet? Scientists and experts have launched various probes to find answers to these intriguing questions. One of them was the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which is the world's largest and most powerful telescope ever launched into space. In research published on Monday (Nov 27) in the journal Nature Astronomy, the scientists have noted what makes it difficult to identify water on alien worlds. The research, titled "Optical properties of organic haze analogues in water-rich exoplanet atmospheres observable with JWST", stated that hazy atmospheres of exoplanets create hurdles for scientists. Also Read | Supermassive black hole in our galaxy spinning rapidly, altering space-time around it: scientists During its journey so far, James Webb has done atmospheric characterisation of transiting exoplanets. It observed some of the exoplanets to have equilibrium temperatures below 1,000 K, which is a regime where "photochemical hazes are expected to form". However, scientists need clear image to analyse what's present in the atmosphere of exoplanets - but something as trivial as haze is making it difficult. In common language, haze means an aggregation in the atmosphere of very fine, widely dispersed, solid or liquid particles, or both. It turns the air into an opalescent appearance that subdues colours. Also Read | CIA has recovered UFOs, and at least nine of them: Report This is a very common phenomenon because of the pollution and smog. People living in the Indian capital New Delhi are well aware of this situation. The hazes control how they interact with light depending upon their optical properties. The process is critical for interpreting exoplanet observations. However, scientists have been simulating these hazy conditions in Earth-based laboratories in order to solve this issue. Chao He, who is a researcher at Johns Hopkins University and lead author of a study on these simulations, said in a statement quoted by Space.com: "Water is the first thing we look for when we're trying to see if a planet is habitable, and there are already exciting observations of water in exoplanet atmospheres." "But our experiments and modeling suggest these planets most likely also contain haze," Chao added. One of the major goals of James Webb is to solve mysteries in our solar system and look beyond to distant worlds around other stars. It also probed the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it. He added, "This haze really complicates our observations, as it clouds our view of an exoplanet’s atmospheric chemistry and molecular features." The researchers have said that the study emphasizes the need to "investigate the optical properties of hazes formed in different exoplanet atmospheres and establishes a practical procedure for determining such properties".

What's creating hurdles to find alien worlds? Something as trivial as HAZE

Alex Murdaugh, the disgraced South Carolina attorney, was sentenced on Tuesday (Nov 28) to an additional 27 years in state prison for financial crimes. Murdaugh is a convicted double murderer as he is already serving life sentences without parole for killing his wife and younger son.&nbsp;

The 55-year-old pleaded guilty to 22 counts earlier this month for charges, including fraud and money laundering. During Tuesday's hearing, his plea and the plea agreement were accepted by Judge Clifton Newman.&nbsp;

Murdaugh was accused of financial crimes, which involved scheming to steal millions of dollars from his law firm and clients.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/politically-powerful-koch-network-puts-weight-behind-haley-in-gop-prez-race-664064">Politically powerful Koch network puts weight behind Haley in GOP prez race</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by the US-based media reports, state prosecutor Creighton Waters called the plea deal a "unique and unprecedented sentence" on white collar crimes "the likes of which no one can find another example, state or federal, throughout the country".&nbsp;

Waters referred to the ruling as a "practical life sentence" as Murdaugh will be required to serve at least 85 per cent of his sentence, or more than 22 years, under the terms of the plea agreement.&nbsp;

Waters said that Murdaugh took more than $12 million from vulnerable individuals who trusted him while working as a personal injury attorney at his Hampton County law company.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-serial-killers-widow-on-trial-over-decades-old-murders-664027">French serial killer's widow on trial over decades-old murders</a>&nbsp;

<h2>'Stern sentence'&nbsp;</h2>

In his remarks, Newman, who presided over the murder trial, said it was a "stern sentence" and told Murdaugh that "it's so disappointing to see you again in this setting". He further added that he takes "no joy at all in imposing this sentence".&nbsp;

The judge called Murdaugh "empty", however, he said he hoped that "something will emerge within your soul".&nbsp;

Newman said: "Many of us do things that we shouldn't do. It's just unimaginable - unimaginable to me that you have done some of the things that you've done. Whether it's you or someone you become upon using drugs or through the process of just committing the crimes over and over over a period of years, I don't know. I don't know."&nbsp;

He added, "I don't even know who I'm speaking to now."&nbsp;

The victims and their family members in a way got closure as some of them addressed the court on Tuesday prior to Murdaugh's sentencing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Alex Murdaugh, the disgraced South Carolina attorney, was sentenced on Tuesday (Nov 28) to an additional 27 years in state prison for financial crimes. Murdaugh is a convicted double murderer as he is already serving life sentences without parole for killing his wife and younger son.

Alex Murdaugh, the disgraced South Carolina attorney, was sentenced on Tuesday (Nov 28) to an additional 27 years in state prison for financial crimes. Murdaugh is a convicted double murderer as he is already serving life sentences without parole for killing his wife and younger son. The 55-year-old pleaded guilty to 22 counts earlier this month for charges, including fraud and money laundering. During Tuesday's hearing, his plea and the plea agreement were accepted by Judge Clifton Newman. Murdaugh was accused of financial crimes, which involved scheming to steal millions of dollars from his law firm and clients. Also read: Politically powerful Koch network puts weight behind Haley in GOP prez race As quoted by the US-based media reports, state prosecutor Creighton Waters called the plea deal a "unique and unprecedented sentence" on white collar crimes "the likes of which no one can find another example, state or federal, throughout the country". Waters referred to the ruling as a "practical life sentence" as Murdaugh will be required to serve at least 85 per cent of his sentence, or more than 22 years, under the terms of the plea agreement. Waters said that Murdaugh took more than $12 million from vulnerable individuals who trusted him while working as a personal injury attorney at his Hampton County law company. Also read: French serial killer's widow on trial over decades-old murders 'Stern sentence' In his remarks, Newman, who presided over the murder trial, said it was a "stern sentence" and told Murdaugh that "it's so disappointing to see you again in this setting". He further added that he takes "no joy at all in imposing this sentence". The judge called Murdaugh "empty", however, he said he hoped that "something will emerge within your soul". Newman said: "Many of us do things that we shouldn't do. It's just unimaginable - unimaginable to me that you have done some of the things that you've done. Whether it's you or someone you become upon using drugs or through the process of just committing the crimes over and over over a period of years, I don't know. I don't know." He added, "I don't even know who I'm speaking to now." The victims and their family members in a way got closure as some of them addressed the court on Tuesday prior to Murdaugh's sentencing. (With inputs from agencies)

Alex Murdaugh sentenced to additional 27 years in state prison for financial crimes

Seventy-eight-year-old Ruthy Munder was among the hostages who were released by Hamas, a Palestine-based group that has been designated&nbsp;a terrorist organisation by many nations including the US and the UK. She spoke&nbsp;about the darkness, shortage of food, poor sanitation, and other ordeals she faced when she was held hostage by Hamas.&nbsp;

Sky News posted a video crediting Channel 13 News Israel, in which Munder can be heard saying that she spent the entirety of her time with her daughter, Keren, and grandson, Ohad Munder-Zichri. She also said that Ohad celebrated his ninth birthday in captivity.

Munder was seen in a video released by the Israeli government on Saturday (Nov 25) of those who were released from captivity in Gaza on Friday.

Hamas has released around 60 Israeli women and children as part of the deal which took effect on Friday. They have also released several other foreign nationals. In return, Israel freed Palestinian detainees from prisons. 
&nbsp; 
But more than 160 other hostages taken in the Hamas attacks on October 7 are still held in the Gaza Strip. Dozens have even gone missing.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-israel-are-missing-in-gaza-where-are-they-are-they-even-alive-664197">Qatar says dozens of Israeli hostages have gone missing in Gaza</a>&nbsp;

<h2>'Poor nutrition and solitary confinement'&nbsp;</h2>

Israeli hostages have not spoken directly to the media about the conditions they were kept in. The hospitals have been asked to not reveal any details about the hostages and their experiences.&nbsp;

But some details are emerging. As quoted by the news agency AFP, Ronit Zaidenstein, head of the medical team at Shamir Medical Centre where 17 released Thai nationals were treated, said they had been fed "very unnutritious food" in captivity.&nbsp;

"The people who came to us lost a significant amount of their body weight in such a short time - 10 per cent or more."&nbsp;

Margarita Mashavi, a doctor at Wolfson Medical Centre, which is one of the main facilities caring for freed hostages, said those she spoke to described being kept several stories underground. The remarks came in an interview which is now taken offline.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-frees-12-more-hostages-in-exchange-for-30-palestinian-detainees-in-latest-swap-664073">Hamas frees 12 more hostages in exchange for 30 Palestinian detainees in latest swap</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

"They didn't give them light. They gave it to them for only two hours," she was quoted as saying by the Ynet news site on Monday.&nbsp;

The patient said her meals consisted of "rice, canned hummus and fava beans, and sometimes salted cheese with pita, but not more than that. No fruit, no vegetables, no eggs," she said.&nbsp;

"Even when they asked for a pencil or pen to write in order to pass the time, the Hamas men didn't allow it because they were afraid they would transmit information in writing, so they were without television or reading, and therefore passed the time only in conversation with one another," Mashavi said.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Palestinian movements flag 'truce violations by the occupier'&nbsp;

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<h2>'Horrible conditions'</h2>

Esther Yaeli, the grandmother of 12-year-old French-Israeli boy Eitan Yahalomi, who was released on Monday, told the Walla news website he was held in solitary confinement for 16 days.

"The days that he was alone were horrible," she said. "Now Eitan appears very withdrawn. The noises of the bombs hurt him, his ears hurt for a very long time," Yaeli said he told her.&nbsp;

Hagar Mizrahi, who is the head of the Israeli health ministry's operations for returning hostages, told AFP that they had been held in "horrible conditions" and that "the medical consequences are pretty clear".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Seventy-eight-year-old Ruthy Munder was among the hostages who were released by Hamas, a Palestine-based group that has been designated a terrorist organisation by many nations including the US and the UK.

Seventy-eight-year-old Ruthy Munder was among the hostages who were released by Hamas, a Palestine-based group that has been designated a terrorist organisation by many nations including the US and the UK. She spoke about the darkness, shortage of food, poor sanitation, and other ordeals she faced when she was held hostage by Hamas. Sky News posted a video crediting Channel 13 News Israel, in which Munder can be heard saying that she spent the entirety of her time with her daughter, Keren, and grandson, Ohad Munder-Zichri. She also said that Ohad celebrated his ninth birthday in captivity. Munder was seen in a video released by the Israeli government on Saturday (Nov 25) of those who were released from captivity in Gaza on Friday. Hamas has released around 60 Israeli women and children as part of the deal which took effect on Friday. They have also released several other foreign nationals. In return, Israel freed Palestinian detainees from prisons. But more than 160 other hostages taken in the Hamas attacks on October 7 are still held in the Gaza Strip. Dozens have even gone missing. Also read: Qatar says dozens of Israeli hostages have gone missing in Gaza 'Poor nutrition and solitary confinement' Israeli hostages have not spoken directly to the media about the conditions they were kept in. The hospitals have been asked to not reveal any details about the hostages and their experiences. But some details are emerging. As quoted by the news agency AFP, Ronit Zaidenstein, head of the medical team at Shamir Medical Centre where 17 released Thai nationals were treated, said they had been fed "very unnutritious food" in captivity. "The people who came to us lost a significant amount of their body weight in such a short time - 10 per cent or more." Margarita Mashavi, a doctor at Wolfson Medical Centre, which is one of the main facilities caring for freed hostages, said those she spoke to described being kept several stories underground. The remarks came in an interview which is now taken offline. Also read: Hamas frees 12 more hostages in exchange for 30 Palestinian detainees in latest swap "They didn't give them light. They gave it to them for only two hours," she was quoted as saying by the Ynet news site on Monday. The patient said her meals consisted of "rice, canned hummus and fava beans, and sometimes salted cheese with pita, but not more than that. No fruit, no vegetables, no eggs," she said. "Even when they asked for a pencil or pen to write in order to pass the time, the Hamas men didn't allow it because they were afraid they would transmit information in writing, so they were without television or reading, and therefore passed the time only in conversation with one another," Mashavi said. Watch: Palestinian movements flag 'truce violations by the occupier' × 'Horrible conditions' Esther Yaeli, the grandmother of 12-year-old French-Israeli boy Eitan Yahalomi, who was released on Monday, told the Walla news website he was held in solitary confinement for 16 days. "The days that he was alone were horrible," she said. "Now Eitan appears very withdrawn. The noises of the bombs hurt him, his ears hurt for a very long time," Yaeli said he told her. Hagar Mizrahi, who is the head of the Israeli health ministry's operations for returning hostages, told AFP that they had been held in "horrible conditions" and that "the medical consequences are pretty clear". (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Darkness, hunger & poor sanitation: Hamas kept Israeli hostages in ‘horrible conditions’

Israel claimed that Hamas militants kidnapped around 240 hostages when they launched the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-released-hostages-handed-over-to-red-cross-in-gaza-664012">surprise attack on October 7</a>, but in a recent report, Qatar said that at least 40 women and children are not with Hamas, and unaccounted for.&nbsp;

Thousands were killed on both sides during the war which started after the October 7 attack, but a four-day true came as a brief respite which was extended for 48 hours. As part of the deal, Israel returned Palestinian detainees from prisons, and Hamas agreed to free some hostages.&nbsp;

A total of 60 Israeli hostages have been freed so far, and the families are hoping that the authorities will free the rest of them. But amidst the truce, the report of missing hostages is concerning. Qatar's PM, a mediator in the negotiations, told The Financial Times on Sunday that Hamas was unable to locate some 40 women and children being held.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-frees-12-more-hostages-in-exchange-for-30-palestinian-detainees-in-latest-swap-664073">Hamas frees 12 more hostages in exchange for 30 Palestinian detainees in latest swap</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Where are the hostages?&nbsp;</h2>

Hamas leaders have previously accused other militant groups for some&nbsp;hostages going missing. They have claimed that they sent their militants to Israel to get their own captives on October 7.&nbsp;

Qatar's claim aligns with what Hamas' rival militant group, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, has said. As per reports, it claimed that it is holding Israeli 30 hostages.&nbsp;

As quoted by Sky News, Hans-Jakob Schindler, who is a senior director at the transatlantic think tank the Counter Extremism Project, said that the situation is "terribly unclear".&nbsp;

Watch: WHO&nbsp;warns Gaza over rising diseases, says disease could kill more people than bombs&nbsp;

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"It's important to note that Islamic Jihad and Hamas don't have a cooperative relationship - they're actually competitors," he told the outlet.&nbsp;

"So it's not entirely clear if Hamas can get Islamic Jihad to release any of the hostages it may be holding. And it seems it wasn't just them and Hamas involved in the 7 October attack. There's been a well-developed smuggling economy in Gaza for decades - long before Hamas took control - organised by networks of crime families."

"So it's possible hostages are neither under the control of Hamas nor Islamic Jihad - but these crime organisations," he added. Some hostages are probably being held by independent criminals. But there's no confirmation.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-invites-criticism-for-chanting-crush-zionism-at-pro-palestinian-protest-in-sweden-664075">Greta Thunberg invites criticism for chanting 'crush Zionism' at pro-Palestinian protest in Sweden</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Are they even alive?&nbsp;</h2>

The reports have established one thing,&nbsp;that some of the hostages are unaccounted for, but there's a possibility that Hamas lied to Qatar to indirectly mislead Israel. There's no concrete evidence for all the claims related to the missing hostages. &nbsp;

Hamas has already claimed that between 50 and 60 hostages have been killed in airstrikes from late October. They haven't provided evidence to support their claims.&nbsp;

Hence, the fate of dozens of hostages is not clear yet as their families hope and pray for their safe return.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel claimed that Hamas militants kidnapped around 240 hostages when they launched the surprise attack on October 7, but in a recent report, Qatar said that at least 40 women and children are not with Hamas, and unaccounted for.

Israel claimed that Hamas militants kidnapped around 240 hostages when they launched the surprise attack on October 7, but in a recent report, Qatar said that at least 40 women and children are not with Hamas, and unaccounted for. Thousands were killed on both sides during the war which started after the October 7 attack, but a four-day true came as a brief respite which was extended for 48 hours. As part of the deal, Israel returned Palestinian detainees from prisons, and Hamas agreed to free some hostages. A total of 60 Israeli hostages have been freed so far, and the families are hoping that the authorities will free the rest of them. But amidst the truce, the report of missing hostages is concerning. Qatar's PM, a mediator in the negotiations, told The Financial Times on Sunday that Hamas was unable to locate some 40 women and children being held. Also read: Hamas frees 12 more hostages in exchange for 30 Palestinian detainees in latest swap Where are the hostages? Hamas leaders have previously accused other militant groups for some hostages going missing. They have claimed that they sent their militants to Israel to get their own captives on October 7. Qatar's claim aligns with what Hamas' rival militant group, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, has said. As per reports, it claimed that it is holding Israeli 30 hostages. As quoted by Sky News, Hans-Jakob Schindler, who is a senior director at the transatlantic think tank the Counter Extremism Project, said that the situation is "terribly unclear". Watch: WHO warns Gaza over rising diseases, says disease could kill more people than bombs × "It's important to note that Islamic Jihad and Hamas don't have a cooperative relationship - they're actually competitors," he told the outlet. "So it's not entirely clear if Hamas can get Islamic Jihad to release any of the hostages it may be holding. And it seems it wasn't just them and Hamas involved in the 7 October attack. There's been a well-developed smuggling economy in Gaza for decades - long before Hamas took control - organised by networks of crime families." "So it's possible hostages are neither under the control of Hamas nor Islamic Jihad - but these crime organisations," he added. Some hostages are probably being held by independent criminals. But there's no confirmation. Also read: Greta Thunberg invites criticism for chanting 'crush Zionism' at pro-Palestinian protest in Sweden Are they even alive? The reports have established one thing, that some of the hostages are unaccounted for, but there's a possibility that Hamas lied to Qatar to indirectly mislead Israel. There's no concrete evidence for all the claims related to the missing hostages. Hamas has already claimed that between 50 and 60 hostages have been killed in airstrikes from late October. They haven't provided evidence to support their claims. Hence, the fate of dozens of hostages is not clear yet as their families hope and pray for their safe return. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Qatar says dozens of Israeli hostages have gone missing in Gaza

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak cancelled a meeting with his Greek counterpart scheduled to take place on Tuesday (November 28) over the Parthenon Sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, triggering a diplomatic row between the two nations.&nbsp;

Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed his disappointment over the last-minute cancellation of a bilateral meeting in London set to discuss their long-running dispute over the Parthenon Marbles. While speaking to reporters, Mitsotakis said that he was "deeply disappointed by the abrupt cancellation" of the meeting and he also rejected an alternative meeting with the deputy prime minister.&nbsp;

In a brief statement, the Greek leader said: "I would like to express my displeasure at the British Prime Minister's cancellation of our meeting just a few hours before it was due to take place."&nbsp;

He further told reporters on Monday evening that "those who firmly believe in the correctness and justice of their positions are never hesitant to engage in constructive argumentation and debate". The Greek PM added: "Greece and Britain share longstanding ties of friendship, and the scope of our bilateral relations is extensive."&nbsp;

"Our positions on the matter of the Parthenon Sculptures are well-known. I had anticipated engaging in a discussion with my British counterpart on this issue, as well as addressing significant global challenges such as the situations in Gaza and Ukraine, the climate crisis, and migration," Mitsotakis added.&nbsp;

A Downing Street spokesperson said that the "UK-Greece relationship is hugely important", without referring to the marbles issue.&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency AFP, the spokesperson cited joint work within NATO and "tackling shared challenges like illegal migration" and the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. "The deputy prime minister was available to meet with the Greek PM to discuss these important issues," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/neanderthals-were-able-to-produce-human-like-speech-claims-study-662800">How did Neanderthals speak? Study points to human-like speech</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Cancellation of the meeting&nbsp;</h2>

The scheduled meeting was cancelled a day after Mitsotakis told BBC that the marbles should be returned. He compared the Parthenon Sculptures to the Mona Lisa painting, as he said that to have some of the artefacts in London's British Museum and the rest in Athens was like cutting the portrait by&nbsp;Leonardo da Vinci in half. He said it was not a question of ownership but "reunification".&nbsp;

"We have not made as much progress as I would like in the negotiations. I'm a patient man and we've waited for hundreds of years, and I will persist in these discussions," Mitsotakis told BBC during a programme.&nbsp;

"This is not in my mind an ownership question, this is a reunification argument – where can you best appreciate what is essentially one monument?" he added.&nbsp;

"It's as if I told you that you would cut the Mona Lisa in half, and you will have half of it at the Louvre and half of it at the British Museum, do you think your viewers would appreciate the beauty of the painting in such a way? Well, this is exactly what happened with the Parthenon sculptures," the Greek PM further added.&nbsp;

"We feel that the sculptures belong to Greece and that they were essentially stolen. I think the answer is very clear. They do look better in the Acropolis Museum, a state-of-the-art museum that was built for that purpose," Mitsotakis said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/unique-lost-city-deep-in-the-ocean-is-a-marvel-but-it-now-faces-mining-threats-660251">Unique 'Lost City' deep in the ocean is a marvel, but it now faces mining threats</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Sculptures of the Parthenon&nbsp;</h2>

The sculptures were taken from the Parthenon temple at the Acropolis in Greece in the early 19th century by the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, then ruling Greece, Thomas Bruce, the Earl of Elgin. For a very long time, Athens has campaigned for their return. The main sculptural decorations of the Parthenon include the Chryselephantine statue of Athena, the East and West pediments, the metopes of the peristyle, and the continuous frieze of the cellar. The sculptures were exhibited on the exterior of the temple.&nbsp;

As defined by AncientGreece.org, the pediments of the Parthenon were decorated with elaborate marble statues dedicated to mythological aspects of Athena. The report stated that the huge sculptures were arranged in dynamic compositions in order to fill the confined triangular spaces. However, the sculptures of the pediments (aetomata) were reported to be damaged severely when the Parthenon was converted to a Christian church.&nbsp;

Notably, Athens claims that the marble was stolen, however, Britain denies it. The issue remains to be discussed with an aim to arrive at a consensus and has been a source of contention between the countries for decades.&nbsp;

The Acropolis Museum was built by Greece in 2009 to keep the historic sculptures that remained in the country, along with other artefacts. The Greeks wanted the rest of the sculptures&nbsp;to complete the collection.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mummies-of-children-about-1000-year-old-unearthed-in-peru-661887">Mummies of children from at least 1,000 years ago unearthed near residential area in Peru</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Conflict within UK&nbsp;</h2>

UK-based media reports said that Mitsotakis had said that he would raise the issue with Sunak during the now-cancelled meeting on Tuesday.&nbsp;His remarks came after he met with the Labour leader Keir Starmer. As reported by The Financial Times, Starmer said he would not block a "mutually acceptable" loan deal between both countries for the sculptures. An important point - Starmer represents the Holborn and St Pancras constituency, where the British Museum is located.&nbsp;

Earlier this year in March, Sunak ruled out any change to a law that stops the British Museum from handing the marble back to Greece permanently. Sunak's spokesman said earlier Monday that the UK has "no plans" to facilitate their return to Athens.&nbsp;

However, it can happen as the legislation won't deny a loan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak cancelled a meeting with his Greek counterpart scheduled to take place on Tuesday (November 28) over the Parthenon Sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, triggering a diplomatic row between the two nations.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak cancelled a meeting with his Greek counterpart scheduled to take place on Tuesday (November 28) over the Parthenon Sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, triggering a diplomatic row between the two nations. Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed his disappointment over the last-minute cancellation of a bilateral meeting in London set to discuss their long-running dispute over the Parthenon Marbles. While speaking to reporters, Mitsotakis said that he was "deeply disappointed by the abrupt cancellation" of the meeting and he also rejected an alternative meeting with the deputy prime minister. In a brief statement, the Greek leader said: "I would like to express my displeasure at the British Prime Minister's cancellation of our meeting just a few hours before it was due to take place." He further told reporters on Monday evening that "those who firmly believe in the correctness and justice of their positions are never hesitant to engage in constructive argumentation and debate". The Greek PM added: "Greece and Britain share longstanding ties of friendship, and the scope of our bilateral relations is extensive." "Our positions on the matter of the Parthenon Sculptures are well-known. I had anticipated engaging in a discussion with my British counterpart on this issue, as well as addressing significant global challenges such as the situations in Gaza and Ukraine, the climate crisis, and migration," Mitsotakis added. A Downing Street spokesperson said that the "UK-Greece relationship is hugely important", without referring to the marbles issue. As quoted by the news agency AFP, the spokesperson cited joint work within NATO and "tackling shared challenges like illegal migration" and the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. "The deputy prime minister was available to meet with the Greek PM to discuss these important issues," the spokesperson added. Also read: How did Neanderthals speak? Study points to human-like speech Cancellation of the meeting The scheduled meeting was cancelled a day after Mitsotakis told BBC that the marbles should be returned. He compared the Parthenon Sculptures to the Mona Lisa painting, as he said that to have some of the artefacts in London's British Museum and the rest in Athens was like cutting the portrait by Leonardo da Vinci in half. He said it was not a question of ownership but "reunification". "We have not made as much progress as I would like in the negotiations. I'm a patient man and we've waited for hundreds of years, and I will persist in these discussions," Mitsotakis told BBC during a programme. "This is not in my mind an ownership question, this is a reunification argument – where can you best appreciate what is essentially one monument?" he added. "It's as if I told you that you would cut the Mona Lisa in half, and you will have half of it at the Louvre and half of it at the British Museum, do you think your viewers would appreciate the beauty of the painting in such a way? Well, this is exactly what happened with the Parthenon sculptures," the Greek PM further added. "We feel that the sculptures belong to Greece and that they were essentially stolen. I think the answer is very clear. They do look better in the Acropolis Museum, a state-of-the-art museum that was built for that purpose," Mitsotakis said. Also read: Unique 'Lost City' deep in the ocean is a marvel, but it now faces mining threats Sculptures of the Parthenon The sculptures were taken from the Parthenon temple at the Acropolis in Greece in the early 19th century by the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, then ruling Greece, Thomas Bruce, the Earl of Elgin. For a very long time, Athens has campaigned for their return. The main sculptural decorations of the Parthenon include the Chryselephantine statue of Athena, the East and West pediments, the metopes of the peristyle, and the continuous frieze of the cellar. The sculptures were exhibited on the exterior of the temple. As defined by AncientGreece.org, the pediments of the Parthenon were decorated with elaborate marble statues dedicated to mythological aspects of Athena. The report stated that the huge sculptures were arranged in dynamic compositions in order to fill the confined triangular spaces. However, the sculptures of the pediments (aetomata) were reported to be damaged severely when the Parthenon was converted to a Christian church. Notably, Athens claims that the marble was stolen, however, Britain denies it. The issue remains to be discussed with an aim to arrive at a consensus and has been a source of contention between the countries for decades. The Acropolis Museum was built by Greece in 2009 to keep the historic sculptures that remained in the country, along with other artefacts. The Greeks wanted the rest of the sculptures to complete the collection. Also read: Mummies of children from at least 1,000 years ago unearthed near residential area in Peru Conflict within UK UK-based media reports said that Mitsotakis had said that he would raise the issue with Sunak during the now-cancelled meeting on Tuesday. His remarks came after he met with the Labour leader Keir Starmer. As reported by The Financial Times, Starmer said he would not block a "mutually acceptable" loan deal between both countries for the sculptures. An important point - Starmer represents the Holborn and St Pancras constituency, where the British Museum is located. Earlier this year in March, Sunak ruled out any change to a law that stops the British Museum from handing the marble back to Greece permanently. Sunak's spokesman said earlier Monday that the UK has "no plans" to facilitate their return to Athens. However, it can happen as the legislation won't deny a loan. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: The Parthenon Sculptures row between United Kingdom and Greece

Researchers in the United Kingdom are preparing to unveil the secrets of a sample of rock retrieved from the asteroid Bennu after its dust arrived at the Natural History Museum in London. Notably, the asteroid has a 1-in-1,750 chance of colliding with Earth in the next 300 years.&nbsp;

A capsule returned in late September with material collected by the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft from the near-Earth asteroid, whose 100mg sample is given to the researchers at the museum. The sample will be subjected to several tests at the museum and the Open, Manchester and Oxford universities.&nbsp;

During the extraordinary challenge, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) spacecraft touched down on Bennu and collected more than 60g of untouched material, which is the largest amount — more than what was brought back during the Apollo programme.&nbsp;

As quoted by The Guardian, Dr Ashley King, a planetary scientist who will work on the grains at the museum, said: "It's amazing. It's like a little treasure trove that takes us back to the start of the solar system. I can't wait to get my hands on them and see what we can learn about the early solar system."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/milestone-for-isros-astrosat-as-it-detects-600th-gamma-ray-burst-663812">Milestone for ISRO's AstroSat as it detects 600th gamma-ray burst</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Asteroid Bennu contains water: NASA&nbsp;</h2>

NASA last month confirmed that the sample from the asteroid Bennu contains water and carbon molecules, both are building blocks for life. This finding has offered more evidence for the theory that life on Earth was seeded from outer space.&nbsp;

Last month, NASA administrator Bill Nelson said at a press event at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, that this is the biggest "carbon-rich asteroid sample ever returned to Earth". &nbsp;

He added that carbon accounted for almost five per cent of the sample's total weight, and was present in both organic and mineral form. He further said that the water was locked inside the crystal structure of clay minerals.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-is-what-happens-to-astronauts-fingernails-after-a-walk-in-space-and-it-is-terrifying-663760">This is what happens to astronauts' fingernails after a walk in space, and it's scary</a>&nbsp;

At the London Museum, the researchers will be focussed on analysing hydrogen isotopes in the water bound up in Bennu in order to find if any of them matches that found in Earth's oceans.&nbsp;

The sample will also help scientists in future to understand asteroids and establish whether or not they are dangerous; and know how to destroy or deflect or destroy them if they pose a potential threat to Earth.&nbsp;

King said: "It doesn't sound like a lot of material, but it's plenty to work with. The museum is home to one of the world's leading meteorite collections, and the staff are well-used to handling small amounts of extremely precious materials from outer space."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Researchers in the United Kingdom are preparing to unveil the secrets of a sample of rock retrieved from the asteroid Bennu after its dust arrived at the Natural History Museum in London.

Researchers in the United Kingdom are preparing to unveil the secrets of a sample of rock retrieved from the asteroid Bennu after its dust arrived at the Natural History Museum in London. Notably, the asteroid has a 1-in-1,750 chance of colliding with Earth in the next 300 years. A capsule returned in late September with material collected by the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft from the near-Earth asteroid, whose 100mg sample is given to the researchers at the museum. The sample will be subjected to several tests at the museum and the Open, Manchester and Oxford universities. During the extraordinary challenge, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) spacecraft touched down on Bennu and collected more than 60g of untouched material, which is the largest amount — more than what was brought back during the Apollo programme. As quoted by The Guardian, Dr Ashley King, a planetary scientist who will work on the grains at the museum, said: "It's amazing. It's like a little treasure trove that takes us back to the start of the solar system. I can't wait to get my hands on them and see what we can learn about the early solar system." Also read: Milestone for ISRO's AstroSat as it detects 600th gamma-ray burst Asteroid Bennu contains water: NASA NASA last month confirmed that the sample from the asteroid Bennu contains water and carbon molecules, both are building blocks for life. This finding has offered more evidence for the theory that life on Earth was seeded from outer space. Last month, NASA administrator Bill Nelson said at a press event at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, that this is the biggest "carbon-rich asteroid sample ever returned to Earth". He added that carbon accounted for almost five per cent of the sample's total weight, and was present in both organic and mineral form. He further said that the water was locked inside the crystal structure of clay minerals. Also read: This is what happens to astronauts' fingernails after a walk in space, and it's scary At the London Museum, the researchers will be focussed on analysing hydrogen isotopes in the water bound up in Bennu in order to find if any of them matches that found in Earth's oceans. The sample will also help scientists in future to understand asteroids and establish whether or not they are dangerous; and know how to destroy or deflect or destroy them if they pose a potential threat to Earth. King said: "It doesn't sound like a lot of material, but it's plenty to work with. The museum is home to one of the world's leading meteorite collections, and the staff are well-used to handling small amounts of extremely precious materials from outer space." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists at London Museum to study dust from Bennu asteroid and unveil secrets

The United States, Britain and more than a dozen other countries on Sunday unveiled what a senior U.S. official described as the first detailed international agreement on how to keep artificial intelligence safe from rogue actors, pushing for companies to create&nbsp;AI&nbsp;systems that are "secure by design."

In a 20-page document unveiled Sunday, the 18 countries agreed that companies designing and using&nbsp;AI&nbsp;need to develop and deploy it in a way that keeps customers and the wider public safe from misuse.

The agreement is non-binding and carries mostly general recommendations such as monitoring&nbsp;AI&nbsp;systems for abuse, protecting data from tampering and vetting software suppliers.

Still, the director of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Jen Easterly, said it was important that so many countries put their names to the idea that&nbsp;AI&nbsp;systems needed to put safety first.

"This is the first time that we have seen an affirmation that these capabilities should not just be about cool features and how quickly we can get them to market or how we can compete to drive down costs," Easterly told Reuters, saying the guidelines represent "an agreement that the most important thing that needs to be done at the design phase is security."

The agreement is the latest in a series of initiatives - few of which carry teeth - by governments around the world to shape the development of&nbsp;AI, whose weight is increasingly being felt in industry and society at large.

In addition to the United States and Britain, the 18 countries that signed on to the new guidelines include Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Poland, Australia, Chile, Israel, Nigeria and Singapore.

The framework deals with questions of how to keep&nbsp;AI&nbsp;technology from being hijacked by hackers and includes recommendations such as only releasing models after appropriate security testing.

It does not tackle thorny questions around the appropriate uses of&nbsp;AI, or how the data that feeds these models is gathered.

The rise of&nbsp;AI&nbsp;has fed a host of concerns, including the fear that it could be used to disrupt the democratic process, turbocharge fraud, or lead to dramatic job loss, among other harms.

Europe is ahead of the United States on regulations around&nbsp;AI, with lawmakers there drafting&nbsp;AI&nbsp;rules. France, Germany and Italy also recently reached an agreement on how artificial intelligence should be regulated that supports "mandatory self-regulation through codes of conduct" for so-called foundation models of&nbsp;AI, which are designed to produce a broad range of outputs.

The Biden administration has been pressing lawmakers for&nbsp;AI&nbsp;regulation, but a polarized U.S. Congress has made little headway in passing effective regulation.

The White House sought to reduce&nbsp;AI&nbsp;risks to consumers, workers, and minority groups while bolstering national security with a new executive order in October.

The United States, Britain and more than a dozen other countries on Sunday unveiled what a senior U.S. official described as the first detailed international agreement on how to keep artificial intelligence safe from rogue actors, pushing for companies to create AI systems that are "secure by design.

The United States, Britain and more than a dozen other countries on Sunday unveiled what a senior U.S. official described as the first detailed international agreement on how to keep artificial intelligence safe from rogue actors, pushing for companies to create AI systems that are "secure by design." In a 20-page document unveiled Sunday, the 18 countries agreed that companies designing and using AI need to develop and deploy it in a way that keeps customers and the wider public safe from misuse. The agreement is non-binding and carries mostly general recommendations such as monitoring AI systems for abuse, protecting data from tampering and vetting software suppliers. Still, the director of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Jen Easterly, said it was important that so many countries put their names to the idea that AI systems needed to put safety first. "This is the first time that we have seen an affirmation that these capabilities should not just be about cool features and how quickly we can get them to market or how we can compete to drive down costs," Easterly told Reuters, saying the guidelines represent "an agreement that the most important thing that needs to be done at the design phase is security." The agreement is the latest in a series of initiatives - few of which carry teeth - by governments around the world to shape the development of AI, whose weight is increasingly being felt in industry and society at large. In addition to the United States and Britain, the 18 countries that signed on to the new guidelines include Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Poland, Australia, Chile, Israel, Nigeria and Singapore. The framework deals with questions of how to keep AI technology from being hijacked by hackers and includes recommendations such as only releasing models after appropriate security testing. It does not tackle thorny questions around the appropriate uses of AI, or how the data that feeds these models is gathered. The rise of AI has fed a host of concerns, including the fear that it could be used to disrupt the democratic process, turbocharge fraud, or lead to dramatic job loss, among other harms. Europe is ahead of the United States on regulations around AI, with lawmakers there drafting AI rules. France, Germany and Italy also recently reached an agreement on how artificial intelligence should be regulated that supports "mandatory self-regulation through codes of conduct" for so-called foundation models of AI, which are designed to produce a broad range of outputs. The Biden administration has been pressing lawmakers for AI regulation, but a polarized U.S. Congress has made little headway in passing effective regulation. The White House sought to reduce AI risks to consumers, workers, and minority groups while bolstering national security with a new executive order in October.

US, Britain, other countries ink agreement to make AI 'secure by design'

The Indian government has asked all the states and union territories to closely monitor the respiratory illness cases among children and adolescents in order to analyse its seriousness. In the aftermath of an alarming situation in China where a sudden surge of respiratory illnesses among children has been reported, India has asked the authorities to report all cases of serious respiratory illnesses — Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI), the Hindustan Times reported citing people familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

As quoted, a senior central government official said on condition of anonymity that "this is being done purely as a precautionary measure; so far no red flags have been seen but it is important to step up the vigil".&nbsp;

"There is already a surveillance system in place for tracking respiratory illnesses owing to COVID-19, which will be made use of for further surveillance. As has been said before, the risk for India continues to remain low," he said as quoted.&nbsp;

Dr Neeraj Kumar Gupta, Pulmonary Department Head at Safadarjung Hospital, told ANI recently that the latest respiratory illness outbreak in China is no threat to India and mentioned that "we are well prepared".&nbsp;

"I don't personally see any threat to India because we are well prepared. Even if it is a novel virus, we are well prepared because we have our past experience with us. Even the health ministry has issued guidelines so remain vigilant on this," Dr Gupta told the news agency.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/another-covid-like-scare-from-china-experts-tell-wion-what-exactly-it-is-662463">Another Covid-like scare from China? Experts tell WION what exactly it is</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Covid-like scare again?&nbsp;</h2>

As per recent reports, China is reporting a large number of respiratory infections, particularly among children, and hospital wards are reportedly running full. So far, there's no confirmation of deaths, but the trends have triggered a scare similar to the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, which killed millions and left a million others with symptoms of long Covid.&nbsp;

On November 25, Dr Sushila Kataria, who is the Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Medanta in Gurugram, told WION that the recent cases in China prompted concerns "reminiscent of the events in November and December 2019".&nbsp;

She said that the Chinese government has clarified that these cases are attributed to known pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, including the influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, some Covid cases, and some mycoplasma cases.&nbsp;

"Given that the incidence of pneumonia typically increases during winter, it is hoped that this surge is seasonal," Dr Kataria said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/psychological-impact-of-israel-hamas-war-use-anti-depressants-rise-in-israel-663758">Psychological impact of Israel-Hamas war: Use of anti-depressants on the rise in Israel</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Pneumonia worry in the Netherlands&nbsp;

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<h2>Similar cases in Europe&nbsp;</h2>

A report in The Messenger published on November 28 stated that the Netherlands is experiencing a rise in pneumonia cases among children as it becomes the second nation besides China to report an outbreak of such cases.&nbsp;

The Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (NIVEL), a research institute in Utrecht, reported that 80 of every 100,000 children between ages five and 14 came down with pneumonia last week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Indian government has asked all the states and union territories to closely monitor the respiratory illness cases among children and adolescents in order to analyse its seriousness.

The Indian government has asked all the states and union territories to closely monitor the respiratory illness cases among children and adolescents in order to analyse its seriousness. In the aftermath of an alarming situation in China where a sudden surge of respiratory illnesses among children has been reported, India has asked the authorities to report all cases of serious respiratory illnesses — Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI), the Hindustan Times reported citing people familiar with the matter. As quoted, a senior central government official said on condition of anonymity that "this is being done purely as a precautionary measure; so far no red flags have been seen but it is important to step up the vigil". "There is already a surveillance system in place for tracking respiratory illnesses owing to COVID-19, which will be made use of for further surveillance. As has been said before, the risk for India continues to remain low," he said as quoted. Dr Neeraj Kumar Gupta, Pulmonary Department Head at Safadarjung Hospital, told ANI recently that the latest respiratory illness outbreak in China is no threat to India and mentioned that "we are well prepared". "I don't personally see any threat to India because we are well prepared. Even if it is a novel virus, we are well prepared because we have our past experience with us. Even the health ministry has issued guidelines so remain vigilant on this," Dr Gupta told the news agency. Also read: Another Covid-like scare from China? Experts tell WION what exactly it is Covid-like scare again? As per recent reports, China is reporting a large number of respiratory infections, particularly among children, and hospital wards are reportedly running full. So far, there's no confirmation of deaths, but the trends have triggered a scare similar to the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, which killed millions and left a million others with symptoms of long Covid. On November 25, Dr Sushila Kataria, who is the Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Medanta in Gurugram, told WION that the recent cases in China prompted concerns "reminiscent of the events in November and December 2019". She said that the Chinese government has clarified that these cases are attributed to known pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, including the influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, some Covid cases, and some mycoplasma cases. "Given that the incidence of pneumonia typically increases during winter, it is hoped that this surge is seasonal," Dr Kataria said. Also read: Psychological impact of Israel-Hamas war: Use of anti-depressants on the rise in Israel Watch: Pneumonia worry in the Netherlands × Similar cases in Europe A report in The Messenger published on November 28 stated that the Netherlands is experiencing a rise in pneumonia cases among children as it becomes the second nation besides China to report an outbreak of such cases. The Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (NIVEL), a research institute in Utrecht, reported that 80 of every 100,000 children between ages five and 14 came down with pneumonia last week. (With inputs from agencies)

India closely monitoring respiratory illness in children amid scare from China

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Zee News Rajasthan

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