It's been months since China has been dealing with COVID-19. While many cities are now easing coronavirus restrictions, Xinjiang has suspended all passenger trains in an effort to stop the spread of the virus.

As per Xinjiang Daily, the authorities said that they are trying to stop the spread of the virus. Xinjiang's vice chairman, Liu Sushe, said, "The outbreak that was effectively controlled by the end of August saw a rebound because people became relaxed and measures were not strictly put in place."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zero-covid-a-crumbling-real-estate-market-and-more-chinese-economy-and-the-challenges-it-faces-522534">Also read |&nbsp;Zero-Covid, a crumbling real estate market and more: Chinese economy and the challenges it faces</a>

He further said that infection cases in various places have increased, making the situation difficult for authorities to handle&nbsp;and conveyed his apologies for the situation, the South China Morning Post reported.&nbsp;

Many workers in the region have tested positive for infection. The chairman claimed it was because of lack of professionalism and low testing capabilities.&nbsp;

Sushe said, "We have not been able to achieve dynamic Zero Covid for more than two months because of the highly infectious BA.5.2 variant and the ineffectiveness of our control measures."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-economy-continues-to-struggle-amid-erratic-policies-and-decisions-521091">Also read |&nbsp;Chinese economy continues to struggle amid 'erratic' policies and decisions</a>

Residents in the area last month complained about the scarcity of food and supplies of necessities.

The vice-mayor of Xinjiang has declared that no one will be allowed to leave the city, not even people with "reasons."

The authorities continue to impose harsh restrictions, which irritate and annoy the citizens. Has the Communist Party failed in its goal? Will China be able to achieve its Zero-Covid goal?&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)

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It's been months since China has been dealing with COVID-19. While many cities are now easing coronavirus restrictions, Xinjiang has suspended all passenger trains in an effort to stop the spread of the virus.

It's been months since China has been dealing with COVID-19. While many cities are now easing coronavirus restrictions, Xinjiang has suspended all passenger trains in an effort to stop the spread of the virus. As per Xinjiang Daily, the authorities said that they are trying to stop the spread of the virus. Xinjiang's vice chairman, Liu Sushe, said, "The outbreak that was effectively controlled by the end of August saw a rebound because people became relaxed and measures were not strictly put in place." Also read | Zero-Covid, a crumbling real estate market and more: Chinese economy and the challenges it faces He further said that infection cases in various places have increased, making the situation difficult for authorities to handle and conveyed his apologies for the situation, the South China Morning Post reported. Many workers in the region have tested positive for infection. The chairman claimed it was because of lack of professionalism and low testing capabilities. Sushe said, "We have not been able to achieve dynamic Zero Covid for more than two months because of the highly infectious BA.5.2 variant and the ineffectiveness of our control measures." Also read | Chinese economy continues to struggle amid 'erratic' policies and decisions Residents in the area last month complained about the scarcity of food and supplies of necessities. The vice-mayor of Xinjiang has declared that no one will be allowed to leave the city, not even people with "reasons." The authorities continue to impose harsh restrictions, which irritate and annoy the citizens. Has the Communist Party failed in its goal? Will China be able to achieve its Zero-Covid goal? (With input from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

COVID-19: China's Xinjiang suspends all passenger trains in attempt to control outbreak

In a meeting held last month, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) had emphasised not lowering guard against COVID due to upcoming festivals even as it decided to do away with wearing face masks after September 30.

According to the minutes of the meeting held on September 22, and accessed by PTI, a notification revoking the Rs 500 fine on not wearing masks is expected to be issued by the health department on Wednesday.

The decision to revoke the mask mandate was anything but unanimous and differences abound, as per the minutes of the meeting issued by Sushil Singh, special CEO, disaster management.

Chief Secretary of Delhi Naresh Kumar had in the meeting said that the current situation was comfortable but the guard against Coronavirus could not be lowered as the variants keep coming up.

The health ministry has advised caution in view of multiple festivals from September 26 to December 31 and likely mass gatherings across the country.

Niti Aayog member Dr V K Paul had in the meeting emphasised that surveillance was still needed as the virus is still present and its mutations and variants have emerged from time to time.

Dr Rajendra Singh, member NDMA, came up with a suggestion that wearing of masks be continued up to November 15 in view of coming festivals.

Delhi Police Commissioner sought clarity and complete set of instructions on the enforcement of mask mandate.

The Chief Secretary suggested that a 'self discipline mode'&nbsp;may be tried now as the public is well aware of its responsibilities and what constitutes a COVID-appropriate behaviour.

Revenue minister Kailash Gahlot in the same meeting reiterated that there were "practical difficulties" in the enforcement of the mask mandate, and stressed the need to relax the rule.

Kunal Satyarthi, joint secretary NDMA, agreed with him saying that wearing of masks may not be advisable in the present circumstances, the minutes said.

The meeting chaired by LG V K Saxena and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in attendance, summarily agreed that though wearing of masks was useful in maintaining a Covid -appropriate behaviour, the order of compulsory wearing of masks under the Epidemic Act may not be extended beyond September 30.

The DDMA also agreed that the fine of Rs 500 for not wearing masks in public places will stand withdrawn after September 30, it added.

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In a meeting held last month, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) had emphasised not lowering guard against COVID due to upcoming festivals even as it decided to do away with wearing face masks after September 30.

In a meeting held last month, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) had emphasised not lowering guard against COVID due to upcoming festivals even as it decided to do away with wearing face masks after September 30. According to the minutes of the meeting held on September 22, and accessed by PTI, a notification revoking the Rs 500 fine on not wearing masks is expected to be issued by the health department on Wednesday. The decision to revoke the mask mandate was anything but unanimous and differences abound, as per the minutes of the meeting issued by Sushil Singh, special CEO, disaster management. Chief Secretary of Delhi Naresh Kumar had in the meeting said that the current situation was comfortable but the guard against Coronavirus could not be lowered as the variants keep coming up. The health ministry has advised caution in view of multiple festivals from September 26 to December 31 and likely mass gatherings across the country. Niti Aayog member Dr V K Paul had in the meeting emphasised that surveillance was still needed as the virus is still present and its mutations and variants have emerged from time to time. Dr Rajendra Singh, member NDMA, came up with a suggestion that wearing of masks be continued up to November 15 in view of coming festivals. Delhi Police Commissioner sought clarity and complete set of instructions on the enforcement of mask mandate. The Chief Secretary suggested that a 'self discipline mode' may be tried now as the public is well aware of its responsibilities and what constitutes a COVID-appropriate behaviour. Revenue minister Kailash Gahlot in the same meeting reiterated that there were "practical difficulties" in the enforcement of the mask mandate, and stressed the need to relax the rule. Kunal Satyarthi, joint secretary NDMA, agreed with him saying that wearing of masks may not be advisable in the present circumstances, the minutes said. The meeting chaired by LG V K Saxena and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in attendance, summarily agreed that though wearing of masks was useful in maintaining a Covid -appropriate behaviour, the order of compulsory wearing of masks under the Epidemic Act may not be extended beyond September 30. The DDMA also agreed that the fine of Rs 500 for not wearing masks in public places will stand withdrawn after September 30, it added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Officials not on same page on revocation of mask mandate in Delhi, reveals document

With Pakistan's situation deteriorating every day in the wake of devastating floods, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has refused to inaugurate the dashboard built by the IT ministry for flood relief assistance because he wasn't satisfied with its performance.

Sharif called this dashboard a "joke" and said that this is not what they imagined. In order to provide necessary&nbsp;flood relief digital assistance to people and have necessary features and information,&nbsp;PM Sharif had earlier given the go-ahead for this dashboard.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-drops-contempt-of-court-case-against-ex-pm-khan-522043">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan court drops contempt of court case against ex-PM Khan</a>

But later, Shehbaz said, "If real-time information doesn't arrive in this, then it's of no use. Then we are wasting each other's time. I`m not going to inaugurate this today." Additionally, he mentioned that data from Pakistan's meteorological department has not been added to the dashboard, Dawn reported.&nbsp;

In order to improve the flood relief, PM Sharif gave proper instructions to the authorities to update the board with all the necessary information and features that are required for proper communication to the world and develop this dashboard as a "world-class" platform.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hospitals-overwhelmed-as-water-borne-illnesses-spread-522037">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan: Hospitals overwhelmed as water-borne illnesses spread</a>

The South Asian country is facing its worst floods yet. Over 2 million homes in Pakistan have been submerged or severely damaged, and nearly 7.9 million people have been displaced as of now, with over 590,000 living in relief camps.

The United Nations has revised its humanitarian assistance for the country from $160 million to $810 million. Other foreign countries are also providing the country with assistance.

Ismail Miftah, the former finance minister, had resigned following economic and climate turmoil in the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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With Pakistan's situation deteriorating every day in the wake of devastating floods, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has refused to inaugurate the dashboard built by the IT ministry for flood relief assistance because he wasn't satisfied with its performance.

With Pakistan's situation deteriorating every day in the wake of devastating floods, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has refused to inaugurate the dashboard built by the IT ministry for flood relief assistance because he wasn't satisfied with its performance. Sharif called this dashboard a "joke" and said that this is not what they imagined. In order to provide necessary flood relief digital assistance to people and have necessary features and information, PM Sharif had earlier given the go-ahead for this dashboard. Also read | Pakistan court drops contempt of court case against ex-PM Khan But later, Shehbaz said, "If real-time information doesn't arrive in this, then it's of no use. Then we are wasting each other's time. I`m not going to inaugurate this today." Additionally, he mentioned that data from Pakistan's meteorological department has not been added to the dashboard, Dawn reported. In order to improve the flood relief, PM Sharif gave proper instructions to the authorities to update the board with all the necessary information and features that are required for proper communication to the world and develop this dashboard as a "world-class" platform. Also read | Pakistan: Hospitals overwhelmed as water-borne illnesses spread The South Asian country is facing its worst floods yet. Over 2 million homes in Pakistan have been submerged or severely damaged, and nearly 7.9 million people have been displaced as of now, with over 590,000 living in relief camps. The United Nations has revised its humanitarian assistance for the country from $160 million to $810 million. Other foreign countries are also providing the country with assistance. Ismail Miftah, the former finance minister, had resigned following economic and climate turmoil in the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif refuses to inaugurate flood relief dashboard, calls it a 'joke'

Former US President Donald Trump has sued CNN for defamation and will be seeking damages worth $475 million. In other news, the US will impose “further costs” on the Iranian officials responsible for violence during the anti-government protests over Amini's death. Finally, North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile off its east coast on Tuesday, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Japanese coast guard.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-sues-cnn-for-defamation-seeks-damages-worth-475-million-522201">Donald Trump sues CNN for defamation, seeks damages worth $475 million</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/04/300989-00032hl9rd.jpg" />

Trump’s lawyers said that CNN attempted to ruin his name “with a series of ever-more scandalous, false, and defamatory labels of ‘racist,’ ‘Russian lackey,’ ‘insurrectionist,’ and ultimately ‘Hitler’”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-to-impose-further-costs-on-iran-for-crackdown-on-protests-joe-biden-says-522203">United States to impose 'further costs' on Iran for crackdown on protests, Joe Biden says</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/04/300990-00032jq6vj.jpg" />

In the official statement, Biden said he was "gravely concerned about reports of the intensifying violent crackdown on peaceful protesters in Iran" and promised to come up with a swift response.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-ballistic-missile-towards-the-east-says-south-korea-522205">North Korea conducts longest-range missile test yet over Japan</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/04/300991-00032kd3rg.jpg" />

This was North Korea’s fifth test in 10 days as South Korea continue to hold military drills along with the United States military.

Watch |&nbsp;Zelensky hits back as Elon Musk sets up Twitter poll on annexed areas of Ukraine

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Watch |&nbsp;Tech Talk: India's first passenger drone for naval warships

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Former US President Donald Trump has sued CNN for defamation and will be seeking damages worth $475 million. In other news, the US will impose “further costs” on the Iranian officials responsible for violence during the anti-government protests over Amini's death.

Former US President Donald Trump has sued CNN for defamation and will be seeking damages worth $475 million. In other news, the US will impose “further costs” on the Iranian officials responsible for violence during the anti-government protests over Amini's death. Finally, North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile off its east coast on Tuesday, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Japanese coast guard. Click on the headlines to read more: Donald Trump sues CNN for defamation, seeks damages worth $475 million Trump’s lawyers said that CNN attempted to ruin his name “with a series of ever-more scandalous, false, and defamatory labels of ‘racist,’ ‘Russian lackey,’ ‘insurrectionist,’ and ultimately ‘Hitler’”. United States to impose 'further costs' on Iran for crackdown on protests, Joe Biden says In the official statement, Biden said he was "gravely concerned about reports of the intensifying violent crackdown on peaceful protesters in Iran" and promised to come up with a swift response. North Korea conducts longest-range missile test yet over Japan This was North Korea’s fifth test in 10 days as South Korea continue to hold military drills along with the United States military. Watch | Zelensky hits back as Elon Musk sets up Twitter poll on annexed areas of Ukraine Watch | Tech Talk: India's first passenger drone for naval warships

Morning news brief: Donald Trump sues CNN for defamation, US to impose 'further cost' on Iran, & more

A group of archaeologists in Israel has discovered 44 pure gold coins dating back to the seventh century in a wall at a natural reserve.&nbsp;

Each coin weighs about 170 grammes. As per experts, the coins were found at the Hermon Stream, where they were hidden during the Muslim conquest of the region in 635, the BBC reported.&nbsp;

The experts further added that these coins indicated the end of Byzantine rule in the region at that time. The Byzantine Empire ruled the eastern half of the Roman Empire.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-king-charles-iii-to-appear-on-coins-with-the-queens-new-images-on-the-reverse-side-521042">Also read |&nbsp;UK: King Charles III to appear on coins with queen's new images on the reverse side&nbsp;</a>

Yoav Lere, the director of the group, said, "We can imagine the owner concealing his fortune in the threat of war, hoping to return one day to retrieve his property." However, Lere further added, "In retrospect, we know that he was less fortunate," BBC reported.&nbsp;

The archaeologists not only discovered gold coins from the ancient city but also found a few remains of the ancient buildings, water channels, pipes, a few bronze coins and even more, the Israeli authorities said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/treasure-from-spanish-shipwreck-found-in-the-bahamas-after-more-than-350-years-502259">Also read |&nbsp;Treasure from Spanish shipwreck found in the Bahamas after more than 350 years</a>

The currency expert, Dr Gabriela Bijovsky of the Israel Antiquities Authority, said some of the found coins belonged to Emperor Phocas (602–610), but most of them belonged to his successor, Heraclius, the BBC reported.&nbsp;

A few days back, an archaeologist in Israel by accident discovered a 3,300-year-old chamber and described it as like being on the set of an Indiana Jones movie. DW reported that, as defined, the structure had several intact potteries with bronze artefacts.

The ancient artefacts and pottery found appear to have served as a family tomb back then.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A group of archaeologists in Israel has discovered 44 pure gold coins dating back to the seventh century in a wall at a natural reserve. Each coin weighs about 170 grammes.

A group of archaeologists in Israel has discovered 44 pure gold coins dating back to the seventh century in a wall at a natural reserve. Each coin weighs about 170 grammes. As per experts, the coins were found at the Hermon Stream, where they were hidden during the Muslim conquest of the region in 635, the BBC reported. The experts further added that these coins indicated the end of Byzantine rule in the region at that time. The Byzantine Empire ruled the eastern half of the Roman Empire. Also read | UK: King Charles III to appear on coins with queen's new images on the reverse side Yoav Lere, the director of the group, said, "We can imagine the owner concealing his fortune in the threat of war, hoping to return one day to retrieve his property." However, Lere further added, "In retrospect, we know that he was less fortunate," BBC reported. The archaeologists not only discovered gold coins from the ancient city but also found a few remains of the ancient buildings, water channels, pipes, a few bronze coins and even more, the Israeli authorities said. Also read | Treasure from Spanish shipwreck found in the Bahamas after more than 350 years The currency expert, Dr Gabriela Bijovsky of the Israel Antiquities Authority, said some of the found coins belonged to Emperor Phocas (602–610), but most of them belonged to his successor, Heraclius, the BBC reported. A few days back, an archaeologist in Israel by accident discovered a 3,300-year-old chamber and described it as like being on the set of an Indiana Jones movie. DW reported that, as defined, the structure had several intact potteries with bronze artefacts. The ancient artefacts and pottery found appear to have served as a family tomb back then. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel: Archaeologists discover 44 pure gold coins of seventh century in a wall

Nine people, including senior regional officials, were killed in twin car bombings claimed by Al-Shabaab in central&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;on Monday, police said, as the government escalates an offensive against the Islamists.&nbsp;

Two cars packed with explosives were detonated minutes apart outside local government offices in Beledweyne, a city at the heart of recent offensives against the Al-Qaeda-linked militants who control swathes of&nbsp;Somalia.

"The initial information we have received confirms the death of nine people" including a state minister and a commissioner, said Mohamed Moalim Ali, a local police commander.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-says-it-killed-al-shabaab-co-founder-522004">Also read |&nbsp;Somalia says it killed al Shabaab co-founder</a>

The health minister of Hirshabelle state -- where Beledweyne is located -- and a deputy district commissioner were among the dead, Ali added, with 10 others injured in the "suicide attacks."

Somali forces and "international security partners" have been waging an aggressive counterinsurgency in recent weeks, with the government on Monday announcing the killing of Abdullahi Yare, a top Al-Shabaab operative, in a joint air strike on Saturday in the south of the country.

"This leader... was the head preacher of the group and one of the most notorious members of the Shabaab group," the ministry of information said.

A co-founder of Al-Shabaab with a $3 million US bounty on his head, Yare was believed to be next in line to take over the leadership of the movement from its ailing chief Ahmed Diriye, according to the ministry.

The US Africa Command said Monday that it carried out a drone strike targeting Al-Shabaab two days earlier in coordination with&nbsp;Somalia's federal government.

"The command's initial assessment is that the strike killed an Al-Shabaab leader and that no civilians were injured or killed," it said in a statement.

Somalia's recently elected President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vowed an all-out war on the jihadists, after a string of deadly attacks, including a 30-hour hotel siege in the capital Mogadishu that killed 21 people.

Mohamud last month urged citizens to stay away from areas controlled by Al-Shabaab as government forces supported by local clan militias launched offensives in Hiraan region, of which Beledweyne is the capital.

Military officials and clan elders told AFP that local residents had decided to take up arms against the militants, who have been accused of extorting money from them.

Huge explosion

Witnesses of Monday's twin bombings described a smaller blast followed by a massive second explosion.

"The explosion was huge, and it destroyed most buildings" nearby, said Mohamud Addow, who witnessed the attack.&nbsp;

"I saw several people rushed to hospital and some dead bodies... some were unrecognisable."

The United States, which recently restored a military presence in&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;to fight the jihadists, condemned the bombings.

The attacks "targeted gov't officials working to bring peace to the region &amp; healthcare workers tending to the wounded," the US embassy in Mogadishu said on Twitter.

Al-Shabaab, which claimed responsibility for the bombings, has waged a bloody insurrection against the Mogadishu government for 15 years and remains a potent force despite an African Union operation against the group.

Its fighters were ousted from the capital in 2011 but continue to stage attacks on military, government and civilian targets.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-30-hours-somali-forces-end-deadly-siege-on-mogadishu-hotel-508754">Also read |&nbsp;After 30 hours, Somali forces end deadly siege on Mogadishu hotel</a>

The group last week claimed responsibility for a bomb blast that killed a top Somali police officer near the Al-Shabaab-controlled village of Bursa, some 30 kilometres (20 miles) north of Mogadishu.&nbsp;

US forces have in the past partnered with African Union soldiers and Somali troops in counterterrorism operations, and have conducted frequent raids and drone strikes on Al-Shabaab training camps throughout&nbsp;Somalia.

Last month, the US military said it had killed 27 jihadist fighters in an air strike near Bulobarde, the main town on the road linking Mogadishu to Beledweyne.

It said the air strike was carried out "at the request" of the Somali government.

President Joe Biden decided to restore a US military presence in&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;in May, approving a request from the Pentagon, which deemed his predecessor Donald Trump's rotation system too risky and ineffective.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Nine people, including senior regional officials, were killed in twin car bombings claimed by Al-Shabaab in central Somalia on Monday, police said, as the government escalates an offensive against the Islamists.

Nine people, including senior regional officials, were killed in twin car bombings claimed by Al-Shabaab in central Somalia on Monday, police said, as the government escalates an offensive against the Islamists. Two cars packed with explosives were detonated minutes apart outside local government offices in Beledweyne, a city at the heart of recent offensives against the Al-Qaeda-linked militants who control swathes of Somalia. "The initial information we have received confirms the death of nine people" including a state minister and a commissioner, said Mohamed Moalim Ali, a local police commander. Also read | Somalia says it killed al Shabaab co-founder The health minister of Hirshabelle state -- where Beledweyne is located -- and a deputy district commissioner were among the dead, Ali added, with 10 others injured in the "suicide attacks." Somali forces and "international security partners" have been waging an aggressive counterinsurgency in recent weeks, with the government on Monday announcing the killing of Abdullahi Yare, a top Al-Shabaab operative, in a joint air strike on Saturday in the south of the country. "This leader... was the head preacher of the group and one of the most notorious members of the Shabaab group," the ministry of information said. A co-founder of Al-Shabaab with a $3 million US bounty on his head, Yare was believed to be next in line to take over the leadership of the movement from its ailing chief Ahmed Diriye, according to the ministry. The US Africa Command said Monday that it carried out a drone strike targeting Al-Shabaab two days earlier in coordination with Somalia's federal government. "The command's initial assessment is that the strike killed an Al-Shabaab leader and that no civilians were injured or killed," it said in a statement. Somalia's recently elected President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vowed an all-out war on the jihadists, after a string of deadly attacks, including a 30-hour hotel siege in the capital Mogadishu that killed 21 people. Mohamud last month urged citizens to stay away from areas controlled by Al-Shabaab as government forces supported by local clan militias launched offensives in Hiraan region, of which Beledweyne is the capital. Military officials and clan elders told AFP that local residents had decided to take up arms against the militants, who have been accused of extorting money from them. Huge explosion Witnesses of Monday's twin bombings described a smaller blast followed by a massive second explosion. "The explosion was huge, and it destroyed most buildings" nearby, said Mohamud Addow, who witnessed the attack. "I saw several people rushed to hospital and some dead bodies... some were unrecognisable." The United States, which recently restored a military presence in Somalia to fight the jihadists, condemned the bombings. The attacks "targeted gov't officials working to bring peace to the region & healthcare workers tending to the wounded," the US embassy in Mogadishu said on Twitter. Al-Shabaab, which claimed responsibility for the bombings, has waged a bloody insurrection against the Mogadishu government for 15 years and remains a potent force despite an African Union operation against the group. Its fighters were ousted from the capital in 2011 but continue to stage attacks on military, government and civilian targets. Also read | After 30 hours, Somali forces end deadly siege on Mogadishu hotel The group last week claimed responsibility for a bomb blast that killed a top Somali police officer near the Al-Shabaab-controlled village of Bursa, some 30 kilometres (20 miles) north of Mogadishu. US forces have in the past partnered with African Union soldiers and Somali troops in counterterrorism operations, and have conducted frequent raids and drone strikes on Al-Shabaab training camps throughout Somalia. Last month, the US military said it had killed 27 jihadist fighters in an air strike near Bulobarde, the main town on the road linking Mogadishu to Beledweyne. It said the air strike was carried out "at the request" of the Somali government. President Joe Biden decided to restore a US military presence in Somalia in May, approving a request from the Pentagon, which deemed his predecessor Donald Trump's rotation system too risky and ineffective. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Senior officials among nine dead in Somalia car bombings

Ever since the Russian president announced the country's first mobilisation, Russians have been trying to escape the country with every means of transport you can think of, especially through air flight.

This is what recent data from Spain-based ForwardKeys on Tuesday revealed. According to it, the issue of one-way tickets from Russia has increased by nearly 27 per cent.&nbsp;

The data compared flight bookings for the last week of September (Sept 21 to 27) to the weeks prior to it, which revealed that the issue of one-way tickets from Russia increased to 73 per cent in the week of the announcement as compared to 47 per cent in the previous weeks.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-make-significant-gains-in-south-east-seize-russia-annexed-territories-522220">Also read |&nbsp;Ukrainian forces make significant gains in south&nbsp;&amp; east, seize Russia-annexed territories</a>

The departure date of 60 per cent of the tickets purchased within the week of the announcement was within 15 days, approximately 45 per cent up from the ones done in previous weeks.&nbsp;

According to ForwardKey's air booking data, there was a three-times increase in booking tickets in the last days of September (Sept 28-30).

Reuters reported that Olivier Ponti, ForwardKeys' vice president of insights, said, "These numbers are quite remarkable and correlate with reports at the time of a sudden increase in ticket sales."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-warns-russia-may-have-deployed-its-weapon-of-the-apocalypse-poseidon-heres-all-you-need-to-know-522213">Also read |&nbsp;NATO warns Russia may have deployed its 'weapon of the Apocalypse' Poseidon. Here's all you need to know</a>

As per the authority,&nbsp;the average departure time was between 22 and 34 days.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 21 declared the country's first mobilisation after World War II.

The mobilisation announcement stated that now Russian men are required to fight in the war with Ukraine, which prompted thousands of Russians of fighting age to flee to Russia to avoid the situation. The majority of Russians have fled to Kazakhstan, the United Arab Emirates, Istanbul, and Georgia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ever since the Russian president announced the country's first mobilisation, Russians have been trying to escape the country with every means of transport you can think of, especially through air flight.

Ever since the Russian president announced the country's first mobilisation, Russians have been trying to escape the country with every means of transport you can think of, especially through air flight. This is what recent data from Spain-based ForwardKeys on Tuesday revealed. According to it, the issue of one-way tickets from Russia has increased by nearly 27 per cent. The data compared flight bookings for the last week of September (Sept 21 to 27) to the weeks prior to it, which revealed that the issue of one-way tickets from Russia increased to 73 per cent in the week of the announcement as compared to 47 per cent in the previous weeks. Also read | Ukrainian forces make significant gains in south & east, seize Russia-annexed territories The departure date of 60 per cent of the tickets purchased within the week of the announcement was within 15 days, approximately 45 per cent up from the ones done in previous weeks. According to ForwardKey's air booking data, there was a three-times increase in booking tickets in the last days of September (Sept 28-30). Reuters reported that Olivier Ponti, ForwardKeys' vice president of insights, said, "These numbers are quite remarkable and correlate with reports at the time of a sudden increase in ticket sales." Also read | NATO warns Russia may have deployed its 'weapon of the Apocalypse' Poseidon. Here's all you need to know As per the authority, the average departure time was between 22 and 34 days. Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 21 declared the country's first mobilisation after World War II. The mobilisation announcement stated that now Russian men are required to fight in the war with Ukraine, which prompted thousands of Russians of fighting age to flee to Russia to avoid the situation. The majority of Russians have fled to Kazakhstan, the United Arab Emirates, Istanbul, and Georgia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

One-way flight tickets from Russia increase by 27% amid Putin's mobilisation call 

Former US president Donald Trump has yet again made his way to the headlines, but this time it's not him but a book that has brought him the attention.&nbsp;

The book 'Confidence Man,' written by New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman and published on Tuesday (October 4), covers Trump's life from his days as a New York business tycoon to his presidency.

The book is based on information from nearly 200 sources, including his aides, and even includes info from his own interviews.

However, in response to the launch and the hype, Trump, taking it to his social media platform Truth Social, said this book has many made-up stories with "zero-fact checking."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-sues-cnn-for-defamation-seeks-damages-worth-475-million-522201">Also read |&nbsp;Donald Trump sues CNN for defamation, seeks damages worth $475 million</a>

The following are some shocking revelations from 'Confidence Man':

Flushed documents in 'toilet'

Haberman's book alleges White House staff discovered that the toilet was clogged with some documents believed to have been flushed by Trump when he was in office.&nbsp;

It was also found that Trump tore documents related to the Presidential Records Act.&nbsp;

The former president is already under investigation by the Department of Justice for keeping a few government records at his residence even after leaving office.

Trump wanted to fire his daughter and son-in-law

The most major claim in the book is that Trump wanted to remove his daughter Ivanka and Jared Kushner, his son-in-law, from their positions. Both were senior White House aides. In his meeting with the chief of staff, the chief advised him to talk to both of them, but Trump never spoke to Ivanka and Kushner, and they both remained part of the White House until the end of Trump's presidency.

Scared of dying from coronavirus

Despite several measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the US, Trump's position at the White House was declining due to the virus. He later tested positive for Covid.&nbsp;

The book stated that Trump was scared of dying from Covid. He wrote that he asked his staff to take off their masks and advised New York's governor to not mention this on television.

"Go wild, do anything" to overturn the 2020 election

It was anticipated by many that Trump would lose his presidency to Joe Biden, which he did, but Trump asked the New York City mayor and his attorney to take charge of his campaign and go wild and do anything to gather people in his favour ahead of the elections, BBC reported, citing the book.

‘She say anything about me?’ Trump raised Ghislaine Maxwell link with aides

Then-president voiced concern after the socialite’s sex trafficking arrest, according to a book by New York Times’s Maggie Haberman

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-white-house-staffers-still-keeping-documents-us-archives-521875">Also read |&nbsp;Trump White House staffers still keeping documents: US Archives</a>

Trump refused to release his tax returns

During his 2016 presidential campaign, Trump refused to release his tax returns to his press secretary and his campaign manager. When questioned about this, Trump said that his taxes are always under investigation and that he will release his tax returns once they are not under audit, indicating that his taxes will never be out of the audit.&nbsp;

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Former US president Donald Trump has yet again made his way to the headlines, but this time it's not him but a book that has brought him the attention. The book 'Confidence Man,' written by New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman and published on Tuesday (October 4), covers Trump's life from his days as a New York business tycoon to his presidency.

Former US president Donald Trump has yet again made his way to the headlines, but this time it's not him but a book that has brought him the attention. The book 'Confidence Man,' written by New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman and published on Tuesday (October 4), covers Trump's life from his days as a New York business tycoon to his presidency. The book is based on information from nearly 200 sources, including his aides, and even includes info from his own interviews. However, in response to the launch and the hype, Trump, taking it to his social media platform Truth Social, said this book has many made-up stories with "zero-fact checking." Also read | Donald Trump sues CNN for defamation, seeks damages worth $475 million The following are some shocking revelations from 'Confidence Man': Flushed documents in 'toilet' Haberman's book alleges White House staff discovered that the toilet was clogged with some documents believed to have been flushed by Trump when he was in office. It was also found that Trump tore documents related to the Presidential Records Act. The former president is already under investigation by the Department of Justice for keeping a few government records at his residence even after leaving office. Trump wanted to fire his daughter and son-in-law The most major claim in the book is that Trump wanted to remove his daughter Ivanka and Jared Kushner, his son-in-law, from their positions. Both were senior White House aides. In his meeting with the chief of staff, the chief advised him to talk to both of them, but Trump never spoke to Ivanka and Kushner, and they both remained part of the White House until the end of Trump's presidency. Scared of dying from coronavirus Despite several measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the US, Trump's position at the White House was declining due to the virus. He later tested positive for Covid. The book stated that Trump was scared of dying from Covid. He wrote that he asked his staff to take off their masks and advised New York's governor to not mention this on television. "Go wild, do anything" to overturn the 2020 election It was anticipated by many that Trump would lose his presidency to Joe Biden, which he did, but Trump asked the New York City mayor and his attorney to take charge of his campaign and go wild and do anything to gather people in his favour ahead of the elections, BBC reported, citing the book. ‘She say anything about me?’ Trump raised Ghislaine Maxwell link with aides Then-president voiced concern after the socialite’s sex trafficking arrest, according to a book by New York Times’s Maggie Haberman Also read | Trump White House staffers still keeping documents: US Archives Trump refused to release his tax returns During his 2016 presidential campaign, Trump refused to release his tax returns to his press secretary and his campaign manager. When questioned about this, Trump said that his taxes are always under investigation and that he will release his tax returns once they are not under audit, indicating that his taxes will never be out of the audit. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Confidence Man' : Maggie Haberman's book on Donald Trump has some shocking revelations

The Joint Engineering Exam, or JEE Main, which decides the future of thousands of Indian students, was allegedly hacked last year, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said in its statement.

Giving details about this instance, the CBI stated that it was done by a Russian named Mikhail Shargan in 2021.&nbsp;

Shargan hacked into the software of JEE provided by IT major TCS, or Tata Consultancy Services.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-man-forbids-wife-from-playing-garba-she-files-complaint-522178">Also read |&nbsp;India: Man forbids wife from playing Garba, she files complaint</a>

JEE is a computer-based entrance test where over a million students appear and are administered throughout India to determine admission to engineering colleges such as IIT, NIT, and NIIT.

As per the sources, Shargan hacked the TCS software, which the JEE was using as a platform to conduct exams to provide remote connectivity to take over the computer terminals of students appearing for the exam. To simplify, this means that through hacking, students will be able to cheat easily, as now the teachers or their coaches will be able to access their computers and give exams on their behalf.&nbsp;

An instance was reported of a private coaching centre in Uttar Pradesh named 'Affinity Education' that solved the question paper on behalf of students who paid the institute nearly $1227 to $1841.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-jk-dgp-prisons-found-dead-at-friends-residence-cops-suspect-murder-522206">Also read |&nbsp;Terror outfit PAFF claims responsibility for killing Jammu and Kashmir Police's prison chief</a>

This remote access was provided through an examination centre in Sonepat, Haryana.&nbsp;

Approximately 20 students were believed to have cheated through this method and are now banned from taking the exam for the next three years.

Shargan was taken into custody at Delhi airport by the authorities after he landed from&nbsp;Kazakhstan, and was later arrested. &nbsp;

The case was then registered by the CBI, which conducted raids in different cities and seized laptops involved in the examination scam.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Joint Engineering Exam, or JEE Main, which decides the future of thousands of Indian students, was allegedly hacked last year, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said in its statement.

The Joint Engineering Exam, or JEE Main, which decides the future of thousands of Indian students, was allegedly hacked last year, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said in its statement. Giving details about this instance, the CBI stated that it was done by a Russian named Mikhail Shargan in 2021. Shargan hacked into the software of JEE provided by IT major TCS, or Tata Consultancy Services. Also read | India: Man forbids wife from playing Garba, she files complaint JEE is a computer-based entrance test where over a million students appear and are administered throughout India to determine admission to engineering colleges such as IIT, NIT, and NIIT. As per the sources, Shargan hacked the TCS software, which the JEE was using as a platform to conduct exams to provide remote connectivity to take over the computer terminals of students appearing for the exam. To simplify, this means that through hacking, students will be able to cheat easily, as now the teachers or their coaches will be able to access their computers and give exams on their behalf. An instance was reported of a private coaching centre in Uttar Pradesh named 'Affinity Education' that solved the question paper on behalf of students who paid the institute nearly $1227 to $1841. Also read | Terror outfit PAFF claims responsibility for killing Jammu and Kashmir Police's prison chief This remote access was provided through an examination centre in Sonepat, Haryana. Approximately 20 students were believed to have cheated through this method and are now banned from taking the exam for the next three years. Shargan was taken into custody at Delhi airport by the authorities after he landed from Kazakhstan, and was later arrested. The case was then registered by the CBI, which conducted raids in different cities and seized laptops involved in the examination scam. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Russian man arrested for hacking JEE Mains software to help students cheat

'Cypher' is a keyword in Pakistan politics now. The term that evokes images of secret diplomatic and intelligence communications crept its way into the South Asian country's daily news terminology after claims from former prime minister Imran Khan about a conspiracy to oust him. He was indeed removed from office, but his oft-repeated references to a 'cypher' has led to a controversy that refuses to die down.&nbsp;

The latest development is that a&nbsp;former diplomat on Sunday questioned the federal cabinet's decision to reevaluate the cypher's details in a cabinet report.

The 'cypher controversy' escalated in the wake of recent audio leaks of several political leaders, including that of Khan.&nbsp;

The diplomat in conversation with The Express Tribune said, "By revealing the date and number and stating that it was annexed with the summary, an impression arises that the whole cabinet has read it and thus violated the secrets act."&nbsp;

"Even citing cypher No and date is a violation of the official secret act," the ex-diplomat said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-drops-contempt-of-court-case-against-ex-pm-khan-522043">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan court drops contempt of court case against ex-PM Khan</a>

So what exactly is a cypher?

Simply put, cypher is a secret, restricted diplomatic communication written in some kind of code language, with a specif number and date assigned to it. Deeply encrypted and difficult to decode, a cypher is divided as per its grade. There are two grades for circulation; grade I and grade II. The first grade has limited circulation in comparison to the second one. Cypher details are machine-generated as per the distribution list unless it has been specified by a dignified person.&nbsp;

The original copy is kept at the Foreign Office and making copies is against the law.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Arrest Warrant issued against former Pak PM Imran Khan

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The controversy about cyphers revived last week when the current government charged Imran Khan with violating his oath as a prime minister by providing false information on a diplomatic cypher for his political gains. This controversy surfaced when the former PM accused a US diplomat of threatening a Pakistani diplomat, the latter being informed about this through a cypher.&nbsp;

Last week, two audio recordings of Imran Khan, along with his secretary and cabinet ministers, allegedly discussing how to play up the cypher issue went viral on social media. After the leak of the first audio, Khan said that it was good that this audio got leaked and he wanted the cypher to also get leaked.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-refuses-to-inaugurate-flood-relief-dashboard-calls-it-a-joke-522215">Also read |&nbsp;Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif refuses to inaugurate&nbsp;flood relief dashboard, calls it a 'joke'</a>

The Shehbaz Sharif administration on Friday noted that a copy of the cypher was missing from the PM's house.&nbsp;

However, the former diplomat said that the prime mover cannot be held responsible for it, as he doesn't keep the cypher nor do the filing. The cypher is kept in the principal secretary's office, where several others keep an eye on secret communication.&nbsp;

When asked about what happens if the cypher goes missing, a renowned attorney said that it cannot be specially stated.

In Pakistan, leaked audio and video calls have troubled the ruling government, but there has never been a thorough investigation into this to accept or deny the claims. Will this be repeated?

(With inputs from agencies)

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'Cypher' is a keyword in Pakistan politics now. The term that evokes images of secret diplomatic and intelligence communications crept its way into the South Asian country's daily news terminology after claims from former prime minister Imran Khan about a conspiracy to oust him.

'Cypher' is a keyword in Pakistan politics now. The term that evokes images of secret diplomatic and intelligence communications crept its way into the South Asian country's daily news terminology after claims from former prime minister Imran Khan about a conspiracy to oust him. He was indeed removed from office, but his oft-repeated references to a 'cypher' has led to a controversy that refuses to die down. The latest development is that a former diplomat on Sunday questioned the federal cabinet's decision to reevaluate the cypher's details in a cabinet report. The 'cypher controversy' escalated in the wake of recent audio leaks of several political leaders, including that of Khan. The diplomat in conversation with The Express Tribune said, "By revealing the date and number and stating that it was annexed with the summary, an impression arises that the whole cabinet has read it and thus violated the secrets act." "Even citing cypher No and date is a violation of the official secret act," the ex-diplomat said. Also read | Pakistan court drops contempt of court case against ex-PM Khan So what exactly is a cypher? Simply put, cypher is a secret, restricted diplomatic communication written in some kind of code language, with a specif number and date assigned to it. Deeply encrypted and difficult to decode, a cypher is divided as per its grade. There are two grades for circulation; grade I and grade II. The first grade has limited circulation in comparison to the second one. Cypher details are machine-generated as per the distribution list unless it has been specified by a dignified person. The original copy is kept at the Foreign Office and making copies is against the law. Watch | Pakistan: Arrest Warrant issued against former Pak PM Imran Khan The controversy about cyphers revived last week when the current government charged Imran Khan with violating his oath as a prime minister by providing false information on a diplomatic cypher for his political gains. This controversy surfaced when the former PM accused a US diplomat of threatening a Pakistani diplomat, the latter being informed about this through a cypher. Last week, two audio recordings of Imran Khan, along with his secretary and cabinet ministers, allegedly discussing how to play up the cypher issue went viral on social media. After the leak of the first audio, Khan said that it was good that this audio got leaked and he wanted the cypher to also get leaked. Also read | Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif refuses to inaugurate flood relief dashboard, calls it a 'joke' The Shehbaz Sharif administration on Friday noted that a copy of the cypher was missing from the PM's house. However, the former diplomat said that the prime mover cannot be held responsible for it, as he doesn't keep the cypher nor do the filing. The cypher is kept in the principal secretary's office, where several others keep an eye on secret communication. When asked about what happens if the cypher goes missing, a renowned attorney said that it cannot be specially stated. In Pakistan, leaked audio and video calls have troubled the ruling government, but there has never been a thorough investigation into this to accept or deny the claims. Will this be repeated? (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: What's the 'cypher controversy' roiling Pakistan politics? Here's what you should know

Despite Sri Lanka's economic turmoil, in an effort to assist women and girls who couldn't afford sanitary products due to the current economic difficulties, the government has cut taxes on them.

The office of President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Sunday announced that imports of raw materials used to create feminine hygiene products will now be exempt from customs duties, airport duties, and other taxes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-sri-lanka-bent-toward-economic-crisis-know-these-5-reasons-497442">Also read |&nbsp;Why Sri Lanka bent toward economic crisis? Know these five reasons</a>

Wickremesinghe's official statement stated that due to a decrease in import duties, imported pads and tampons will cost 20 per cent less. The announcement aims to "make hygiene products more affordable to ensure cleanliness among females."

Many schoolgirls and women in Sri Lanka, like in other developing nations, would stay at home during their menstruations because they couldn't afford sanitary products even before the crisis last year.&nbsp;

According to research conducted by Advocata, nearly half of Sri Lanka's 5.3 million women of reproductive age live in "period poverty", which means that they cannot afford sanitary products.&nbsp;

Campaigners contend that the situation has gotten worse as a result of chronic shortages of basic necessities and high inflation in the South Asian country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-power-cut-govt-official-blames-poor-oil-quality-minister-threatens-legal-action-520217">Also read |&nbsp;Sri Lanka power cut: Govt official blames poor oil quality, minister threatens legal action&nbsp;</a>

Not just this, the new Wickremesinghe administration started enforcing a new tax of 2.5 per cent on all goods and services on Sunday (October 2). The government further reduced petrol prices by a small margin to match global prices, but diesel prices remained unchanged.

The nation fell behind on its $51 billion foreign debt in April, and now it is negotiating a $2.9 billion bailout with the IMF. The resignation of former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa in July came after months of demonstrations against him and his government against economic har

(With inputs from agencies)

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Despite Sri Lanka's economic turmoil, in an effort to assist women and girls who couldn't afford sanitary products due to the current economic difficulties, the government has cut taxes on them.

Despite Sri Lanka's economic turmoil, in an effort to assist women and girls who couldn't afford sanitary products due to the current economic difficulties, the government has cut taxes on them. The office of President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Sunday announced that imports of raw materials used to create feminine hygiene products will now be exempt from customs duties, airport duties, and other taxes. Also read | Why Sri Lanka bent toward economic crisis? Know these five reasons Wickremesinghe's official statement stated that due to a decrease in import duties, imported pads and tampons will cost 20 per cent less. The announcement aims to "make hygiene products more affordable to ensure cleanliness among females." Many schoolgirls and women in Sri Lanka, like in other developing nations, would stay at home during their menstruations because they couldn't afford sanitary products even before the crisis last year. According to research conducted by Advocata, nearly half of Sri Lanka's 5.3 million women of reproductive age live in "period poverty", which means that they cannot afford sanitary products. Campaigners contend that the situation has gotten worse as a result of chronic shortages of basic necessities and high inflation in the South Asian country. Also read | Sri Lanka power cut: Govt official blames poor oil quality, minister threatens legal action Not just this, the new Wickremesinghe administration started enforcing a new tax of 2.5 per cent on all goods and services on Sunday (October 2). The government further reduced petrol prices by a small margin to match global prices, but diesel prices remained unchanged. The nation fell behind on its $51 billion foreign debt in April, and now it is negotiating a $2.9 billion bailout with the IMF. The resignation of former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa in July came after months of demonstrations against him and his government against economic har (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sri Lanka: Ranil's administration cuts tax on female sanitary products; diesel prices remain same 

According to the Turkish Defense Ministry, Turkish warplanes "neutralised" 23 Kurdish militants who were killed during 140 kilometres (90 miles) in Iraq.

Whenever a militant is killed, the ministry uses the term "neutralised." It further stated that more causalities are anticipated during the expedition in the Asos region of northern Iraq, which is governed by the independent Kurdistan Regional Government.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-refuses-to-ratify-sweden-and-finlands-nato-membership-bid-521606">Also read |&nbsp;Turkey refuses to ratify Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid</a>

The Defence Minister, Hulusi Akar, in a statement on Thursday, said that airstrikes had hit 16 targets in the Asos region.

Since 2019, Turkey has carried out several operations in northern Iraq, claiming that the military is targeting the Kurdistan Worker's Party, or PKK, to restrain it from launching assaults across the border into Turkey.

A joint effort, "Operation Claw-Lock," between ground and air forces, was started in April. Since 1984, the PKK has been engaged in an intermittent insurgency against the Turkish government, resulting in the deaths of thousands of people.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-and-turkey-pushing-back-afghan-refugees-violating-international-law-says-amnesty-511623">Also read |&nbsp;Iran and Turkey pushing back Afghan refugees, violating international law, says Amnesty</a>

Turkey, along with the United States and the European Union, has designated the group as a "terrorist" organisation. In response to the death of a Turkish police officer in a missile assault on Sunday, the defence ministry later&nbsp;claimed that seven terrorists have been neutralised in northern Syria.

As per official claims, Kurdish militants from the People's Protection Units, or YPG, attacked a Turkish base close to Al Bab.

Despite having ties to the PKK and participating in the US-led campaign against the Islamic State, the YPG has not been regarded as a terrorist organisation by the United States and the European Union till now.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

According to the Turkish Defense Ministry, Turkish warplanes "neutralised" 23 Kurdish militants who were killed during 140 kilometres (90 miles) in Iraq. Whenever a militant is killed, the ministry uses the term "neutralised.

According to the Turkish Defense Ministry, Turkish warplanes "neutralised" 23 Kurdish militants who were killed during 140 kilometres (90 miles) in Iraq. Whenever a militant is killed, the ministry uses the term "neutralised." It further stated that more causalities are anticipated during the expedition in the Asos region of northern Iraq, which is governed by the independent Kurdistan Regional Government. Also read | Turkey refuses to ratify Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid The Defence Minister, Hulusi Akar, in a statement on Thursday, said that airstrikes had hit 16 targets in the Asos region. Since 2019, Turkey has carried out several operations in northern Iraq, claiming that the military is targeting the Kurdistan Worker's Party, or PKK, to restrain it from launching assaults across the border into Turkey. A joint effort, "Operation Claw-Lock," between ground and air forces, was started in April. Since 1984, the PKK has been engaged in an intermittent insurgency against the Turkish government, resulting in the deaths of thousands of people. Also read | Iran and Turkey pushing back Afghan refugees, violating international law, says Amnesty Turkey, along with the United States and the European Union, has designated the group as a "terrorist" organisation. In response to the death of a Turkish police officer in a missile assault on Sunday, the defence ministry later claimed that seven terrorists have been neutralised in northern Syria. As per official claims, Kurdish militants from the People's Protection Units, or YPG, attacked a Turkish base close to Al Bab. Despite having ties to the PKK and participating in the US-led campaign against the Islamic State, the YPG has not been regarded as a terrorist organisation by the United States and the European Union till now. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkish warplanes 'neutralises' 23 Kurdish militants in Iraq

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