The Hong Kong Zoo reported the death of a 12th monkey on Thursday (Oct 24) amid a bacterial outbreak probably caused by infected soil that has already killed 11 other primates including some critically endangered species.

The melioidosis infection deaths happened within a short span of 10 days at the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, the city's oldest park sprawled over 14 acres.&nbsp;

Watch: Bacterial infection causing sudden deaths: Here's what you should know | Gravitas

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The latest casualty was a De Brazza's monkey that had been in quarantine since October 13 when the first deaths were reported. It had signs of sepsis and lesions similar to the others that died.

The autopsies of the other monkeys had revealed the bacteria's presence. Some of the dead included critically endangered species such as cotton-top tamarins and white-faced sakis.

Zoo workers may have carried the bacteria in their shoes and accidentally contaminated the soil near the enclosures, according to the Hong Kong tourism secretary who spoke with the RTHK channel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/absolutely-wild-your-toothbrushes-and-shower-heads-are-teeming-with-viruses-and-bacteria-study-finds-767284">Also read: ‘Absolutely Wild’: Your toothbrushes and shower heads are teeming with viruses and bacteria, study finds</a>

The sudden spike in monkey deaths is concerning, veterinary epidemiologist Dirk Pfeiffer was quoted by BBC as saying.

The zoo has closed its mammals section since October 14 and started cleaning and disinfection.

The other 78 animals in the section are reported to be healthy.

The melioidosis outbreak in Hong Kong was first reported in the 1970s, leading to the deaths of 24 dolphins at Ocean Park.

<h2>What is Melioidosis?</h2>

Melioidosis is an infection caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei or B pseudomallei.&nbsp;

It mostly affects animals and in rare cases, humans could be affected too. Human-to-human infection is also low.

The infection usually spreads via soil, air or water through inhalation, or physical contact through cuts in skin.

Infections usually spike in areas hit by weather events like hurricanes and heavy rains when the bacteria rise to the soil surface, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDS.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-flesh-eating-bacteria-kils-13-in-hurricane-hit-florida-cases-at-record-what-is-vibrio-vulnificus-769936">Also read: 'Flesh-eating' bacteria kills 13 in Hurricane-hit Florida, cases at record: What is vibrio vulnificus?</a> 
&nbsp;

The infection mainly affects animals like sheep, pigs, horses, cats, dogs and cows

The bacteria usually live in tropical climates in Southeast Asia and North Australia&nbsp;

<h2>Symptoms and treatment of Melioidosis&nbsp;</h2>

Symptoms appear between one to four weeks of exposure or could take months or years.

Melioidosis could affect the entire body or parts of it, like the liver, spleen, prostate, joints, bones, lymph nodes, skin, or brain.&nbsp;

These factors make diagnosis very difficult, often leading to misdiagnosis.

The most common symptom is lung infection, apart from ulcers, skin sores, fever, swelling and muscle aches.

Patients may also show up with a cough, chest pain, high fever, headache and lack of appetite.

Melioidosis can lead to a dangerous bloodstream infection or sepsis.

It is treated with antibiotics pills or injections.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Hong Kong Zoo reported the death of a 12th monkey on Thursday (Oct 24) amid a bacterial outbreak probably caused by infected soil that has already killed 11 other primates including some critically endangered species.

The Hong Kong Zoo reported the death of a 12th monkey on Thursday (Oct 24) amid a bacterial outbreak probably caused by infected soil that has already killed 11 other primates including some critically endangered species. The melioidosis infection deaths happened within a short span of 10 days at the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, the city's oldest park sprawled over 14 acres. Watch: Bacterial infection causing sudden deaths: Here's what you should know | Gravitas × The latest casualty was a De Brazza's monkey that had been in quarantine since October 13 when the first deaths were reported. It had signs of sepsis and lesions similar to the others that died. The autopsies of the other monkeys had revealed the bacteria's presence. Some of the dead included critically endangered species such as cotton-top tamarins and white-faced sakis. Zoo workers may have carried the bacteria in their shoes and accidentally contaminated the soil near the enclosures, according to the Hong Kong tourism secretary who spoke with the RTHK channel. Also read: ‘Absolutely Wild’: Your toothbrushes and shower heads are teeming with viruses and bacteria, study finds The sudden spike in monkey deaths is concerning, veterinary epidemiologist Dirk Pfeiffer was quoted by BBC as saying. The zoo has closed its mammals section since October 14 and started cleaning and disinfection. The other 78 animals in the section are reported to be healthy. The melioidosis outbreak in Hong Kong was first reported in the 1970s, leading to the deaths of 24 dolphins at Ocean Park. What is Melioidosis? Melioidosis is an infection caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei or B pseudomallei. It mostly affects animals and in rare cases, humans could be affected too. Human-to-human infection is also low. The infection usually spreads via soil, air or water through inhalation, or physical contact through cuts in skin. Infections usually spike in areas hit by weather events like hurricanes and heavy rains when the bacteria rise to the soil surface, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDS. Also read: 'Flesh-eating' bacteria kills 13 in Hurricane-hit Florida, cases at record: What is vibrio vulnificus? The infection mainly affects animals like sheep, pigs, horses, cats, dogs and cows The bacteria usually live in tropical climates in Southeast Asia and North Australia Symptoms and treatment of Melioidosis Symptoms appear between one to four weeks of exposure or could take months or years. Melioidosis could affect the entire body or parts of it, like the liver, spleen, prostate, joints, bones, lymph nodes, skin, or brain. These factors make diagnosis very difficult, often leading to misdiagnosis. The most common symptom is lung infection, apart from ulcers, skin sores, fever, swelling and muscle aches. Patients may also show up with a cough, chest pain, high fever, headache and lack of appetite. Melioidosis can lead to a dangerous bloodstream infection or sepsis. It is treated with antibiotics pills or injections. (With inputs from agencies)

12 monkeys die in Hong Kong zoo amid bacterial infection: What's sepsis-causing melioidosis?

Rudy Giuliani, the former New York mayor and Donald Trump ally, has been ordered by a US court to hand over keys to his New York apartment and Mercedez Benz once owned by Hollywood legend Lauren Bacall to two Georgia election workers who he had defamed.

Giuliani is appealing the ruling.

Judge Lewis Liman ruled on Tuesday (Oct 22) in favour of the mother-daughter duo Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss whom he defamed following the 2020 presidential election after Trump rejected the verdict.

Guiliani was at the forefront of the election rejection campaign and shared videos accusing Freeman and Moss of engaging in illegal activities.

Guiliani has seven days to turn over the assets, which is part of a $150 mn settlement awarded to the women by a jury in 2023.

Watch: Trump's ex lawyer Rudy Giuliani ordered to pay $148 million for defaming poll workers

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To evade having to pay up, Guiliani had filed for bankruptcy&nbsp;but his plea was rejected.

Besides the Upper East Side apartment and 1980s Mercedes-Benz, he will have to hand over some&nbsp;Yankees memorabilia and around two dozen watches.

The judge ruled that Freeman and Moss can sell the assets to start getting compensation.

The apartments were listed by Guiliani for sale at&nbsp;$6.5 mn in 2023, but the price dropped this year to around $5.1mn.&nbsp; 
 
The judge also ruled that Guiliani cannot sell his Palm Beach condo pending legal proceedings.

The two women will also get the fees Giuliani had charged Trump for his legal work in 2020.

Guiliani, who was debarred from legal practice earlier this year, had claimed that the two women engaged in illegal activities during ballot counting.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rudy-giuliani-disbarred-for-making-false-statements-about-2020-presidential-election-737241">Rudy Giuliani disbarred for making 'false statements' about 2020 presidential election</a>

During the months-long hearings, Freeman and her daughter Moss told the court that they faced harassment online and in real life, as well as depression and personal turmoil after Giuliani's disparaging comments and actions.

They even got death threats and lost their jobs.&nbsp;

Giuliani insisted publicly that his claims were true in spite of Freeman and Moss being cleared of any wrongdoing after an official probe.

Being an ardent supporter and spokesperson has come at a heavy price for Guiliani.

He is also facing criminal charges over his actions and statements during the contentious 2020 election.

Trump's denial of the results eventually led to the Capitol riots of January 6, 2021, when his supporters stormed the seat of US parliament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-led-desperate-criminal-scheme-to-stay-in-power-prosecutors-reveal-new-evidence-revealed-764015">Also read: Trump led ‘desperate criminal scheme’ to stay in power, prosecutors reveal new evidence</a> 
 
The election workers have already&nbsp;settled similar defamation cases against some far-right media outlets that circulated false claims about them.

“The road to justice for Ruby and Shaye has been long, but they have never wavered,” said Aaron Nathan, a lawyer representing Freeman and Moss.

“Last December, a jury delivered a powerful verdict in their favour, and we’re proud that today’s ruling makes that verdict a reality,” The Guardian newspaper quoted Nathan as saying.

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Rudy Giuliani, the former New York mayor and Donald Trump ally, has been ordered by a US court to hand over keys to his New York apartment and Mercedez Benz once owned by Hollywood legend Lauren Bacall to two Georgia election workers who he had defamed.

Rudy Giuliani, the former New York mayor and Donald Trump ally, has been ordered by a US court to hand over keys to his New York apartment and Mercedez Benz once owned by Hollywood legend Lauren Bacall to two Georgia election workers who he had defamed. Giuliani is appealing the ruling. Judge Lewis Liman ruled on Tuesday (Oct 22) in favour of the mother-daughter duo Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss whom he defamed following the 2020 presidential election after Trump rejected the verdict. Guiliani was at the forefront of the election rejection campaign and shared videos accusing Freeman and Moss of engaging in illegal activities. Guiliani has seven days to turn over the assets, which is part of a $150 mn settlement awarded to the women by a jury in 2023. Watch: Trump's ex lawyer Rudy Giuliani ordered to pay $148 million for defaming poll workers × To evade having to pay up, Guiliani had filed for bankruptcy but his plea was rejected. Besides the Upper East Side apartment and 1980s Mercedes-Benz, he will have to hand over some Yankees memorabilia and around two dozen watches. The judge ruled that Freeman and Moss can sell the assets to start getting compensation. The apartments were listed by Guiliani for sale at $6.5 mn in 2023, but the price dropped this year to around $5.1mn. The judge also ruled that Guiliani cannot sell his Palm Beach condo pending legal proceedings. The two women will also get the fees Giuliani had charged Trump for his legal work in 2020. Guiliani, who was debarred from legal practice earlier this year, had claimed that the two women engaged in illegal activities during ballot counting. Rudy Giuliani disbarred for making 'false statements' about 2020 presidential election During the months-long hearings, Freeman and her daughter Moss told the court that they faced harassment online and in real life, as well as depression and personal turmoil after Giuliani's disparaging comments and actions. They even got death threats and lost their jobs. Giuliani insisted publicly that his claims were true in spite of Freeman and Moss being cleared of any wrongdoing after an official probe. Being an ardent supporter and spokesperson has come at a heavy price for Guiliani. He is also facing criminal charges over his actions and statements during the contentious 2020 election. Trump's denial of the results eventually led to the Capitol riots of January 6, 2021, when his supporters stormed the seat of US parliament. Also read: Trump led ‘desperate criminal scheme’ to stay in power, prosecutors reveal new evidence The election workers have already settled similar defamation cases against some far-right media outlets that circulated false claims about them. “The road to justice for Ruby and Shaye has been long, but they have never wavered,” said Aaron Nathan, a lawyer representing Freeman and Moss. “Last December, a jury delivered a powerful verdict in their favour, and we’re proud that today’s ruling makes that verdict a reality,” The Guardian newspaper quoted Nathan as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Rudy Giuliani ordered to give New York apartment, Benz to two Georgia election workers for this reason

Lee Hsien Yang, the youngest son of Singapore's founding leader Lee Kuan Yew, has been granted asylum in the UK after alleging prosecution by the government of his brother, Lee Hsien Loong, who was prime minister till recently.&nbsp;

The BBC said in a report on Wednesday (Oct 23) that Yang, who is a businessmen and a military brigadier, claimed he and his family have faced oppression and legal action.

The bickering was over the estate of their father, which had led to a bitter family feud for years that captivated Singapore, especially over a family home at 38 Oxley Road.

The late leader had wanted the home to be demolished after his death.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-singapore-visit-has-given-turbo-boosting-to-ties-hc-simon-wong-762620">Also read: PM Modi's Singapore visit has given turbo boosting to ties: HC Simon Wong</a>

Yang and his sister Lee Wei Ling who died recently had accused their brother&nbsp; Lee Hsien Loong, who continues to be in the current government, of exploiting their father's legacy to keep himself in power.

Yang has said multiple times that he and his family were political refugees, even as the Singapore government denied any persecution, while maintaining that they are free to return to the southeast Asian city state.

For several years now, Yang has been living in a self-imposed exile with his wife and one of his sons.

According to the BBC report, Yang said he sought UK asylum "as a last resort", hoping to return to Singapore some day.&nbsp;

He will continue to be politically active as a member of the opposition Progress Singapore Party.&nbsp;

The UK asylum was granted after confirmation that Yang had "well-founded fear of persecution," as per&nbsp;documents seen by BBC.

The Lee siblings' father&nbsp;Lee Kuan Yew, considered the founding father of modern Singapore,&nbsp;died in 2015.

Till he fell out with his brother, Yang himself was very much part of the so-called first family of Singapore, and once was the chief of the country's largest telecom firm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-singapore-ex-minister-s-iswaran-sentenced-to-12-months-in-jail-in-graft-case-764028">Also read: Indian-origin Singapore ex-minister S Iswaran sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case</a>

After the feud, he joined the opposition ranks and became an ardent critic of the government.

Yang and his family have been investigated by the government, which he described as a 'pattern of persecution.'

 
Watch: India, Singapore sign MoUs in semiconductors, digital tech and more

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His elder brother Lee Hsien Loong said in 2024 that he will not seek re-election, and in May he became a minister in the cabinet of current Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

For its part, the Singapore government said Yang's allegations are 'without' basis. It said in a statement that Yang and family had no legal restraints. "They are and have always been free to return to Singapore," it said in a staetment.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lee Hsien Yang, the youngest son of Singapore's founding leader Lee Kuan Yew, has been granted asylum in the UK after alleging prosecution by the government of his brother, Lee Hsien Loong, who was prime minister till recently.

Lee Hsien Yang, the youngest son of Singapore's founding leader Lee Kuan Yew, has been granted asylum in the UK after alleging prosecution by the government of his brother, Lee Hsien Loong, who was prime minister till recently. The BBC said in a report on Wednesday (Oct 23) that Yang, who is a businessmen and a military brigadier, claimed he and his family have faced oppression and legal action. The bickering was over the estate of their father, which had led to a bitter family feud for years that captivated Singapore, especially over a family home at 38 Oxley Road. The late leader had wanted the home to be demolished after his death. Also read: PM Modi's Singapore visit has given turbo boosting to ties: HC Simon Wong Yang and his sister Lee Wei Ling who died recently had accused their brother Lee Hsien Loong, who continues to be in the current government, of exploiting their father's legacy to keep himself in power. Yang has said multiple times that he and his family were political refugees, even as the Singapore government denied any persecution, while maintaining that they are free to return to the southeast Asian city state. For several years now, Yang has been living in a self-imposed exile with his wife and one of his sons. According to the BBC report, Yang said he sought UK asylum "as a last resort", hoping to return to Singapore some day. He will continue to be politically active as a member of the opposition Progress Singapore Party. The UK asylum was granted after confirmation that Yang had "well-founded fear of persecution," as per documents seen by BBC. The Lee siblings' father Lee Kuan Yew, considered the founding father of modern Singapore, died in 2015. Till he fell out with his brother, Yang himself was very much part of the so-called first family of Singapore, and once was the chief of the country's largest telecom firm. Also read: Indian-origin Singapore ex-minister S Iswaran sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case After the feud, he joined the opposition ranks and became an ardent critic of the government. Yang and his family have been investigated by the government, which he described as a 'pattern of persecution.' Watch: India, Singapore sign MoUs in semiconductors, digital tech and more × His elder brother Lee Hsien Loong said in 2024 that he will not seek re-election, and in May he became a minister in the cabinet of current Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. For its part, the Singapore government said Yang's allegations are 'without' basis. It said in a statement that Yang and family had no legal restraints. "They are and have always been free to return to Singapore," it said in a staetment. (With inputs from agencies)

Lee Hsien Yang, son of Singapore's founding leader, has been granted asylum in the UK

Trigger warning: Some readers might find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.

Gisele Pelicot, who was drugged by her former husband who then invited several men to rape her, took the stance at a French court in the mass rape trial, saying the shame of rape should be on the perpetrators,&nbsp;not the victims.

Noting that rape exists at all levels, the 57-year old grandmother said victims of rape should be able to say, "Mrs Pelicot did it, we can do it too."

"When you’re raped there is shame, and it’s not for us to have shame – it’s for them," she said during the detailed, harrowing and often emotional testimony.

Watch: France: Mass rape shocks nation, support pours in for survivor Gisele Pelicot

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About her former husband Dominique Pelicot, she said that so many times, she told herself how lucky she was "to have you at my side,” assuming that he was supporting her when she felt sick with neurological issues that later turned out to be resulting from him drugging her.

"He was someone I trusted entirely," The Guardian newspaper quoted her as saying. 
 
"How can the perfect man have got to this? How could you have betrayed me to this point? How could you have brought these strangers into my bedroom?”

Pelicot, who has support from scores of women who now consider her a feminist icon, said it's not bravery, but "the will and determination to change society" that led her to take the stand.

It was pointed out in the court that Dominique Pelicot was caught filming up women's skirts in 2020, but Gisele said she thought it was the first time and she could forgive him.

But it was found out during the police probe that he had done the same offence a decade ago in a supermarket.

Gisele said, if she had been informed about that incident in 2010, she would have left him instead of enduring a decade of rape since then, adding she lost 10 years of her life.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-case-accused-man-a-father-of-three-admits-to-sexual-assault-of-gisele-pelicot-760285">Also read: France mass rape case: Accused man, a father of three, admits to sexual assault of Gisele Pelicot</a>

The disturbing testimony included questions about a video that had been shown to the court in which she is heard asking to stop.

"It was rape," she said, when asked if her words amounted to consent.

Describing herself as a woman who is 'totally destroyed,' Gisele said rapists could be in families 'and among our friends'.

"This man, who came to rape an unconscious, 57-year-old woman...I am also a mother and grandmother...I could have been his grandmother," she said about one of the accused.

Her private life was dragged into the court too, including questions about her extramarital relationship.

She said she had told her former husband about it.&nbsp;

She noted it was very hard for him. "He couldn’t imagine for a moment I could do that.”

The question about the extramarital affair was raised in the context of an accused man saying Dominique Pelicot had acted out of revenge over it.

There was also a question about what she was wearing in the videos recorded by Dominique Pelicot during the assaults.&nbsp;

The court heard last week how Dominique Pelicot would take off her pyjamas and dress her up in undergarments after drugging her, and before the assaults took place.

She told the court that the undergarments in the videos were not hers, as the man must have kept them somewhere and dressed her up when she was sedated and&nbsp;unconscious.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drugged-and-raped-for-decades-hundreds-gather-in-support-of-gisele-pelicot-in-france-758730">Also read: 'Drugged and raped for decades,' Hundreds gather in support of Gisele Pelicot in France</a> 
 
She shared having consulted three gynaecologists after feeling unwell, and told the court that he may have spiked her food.

Once, she said, he insisted on driving her to a hairdresser, and afterwards she didn't remember the rest of the appoinment at the place.

The court had been told that Dominique Pelicot kept the drugs in the house and mixed them in meals or ice cream after dinner.

She said he had made a lot of meals, which she saw as a sign of him being caring.

On one occasion when she returned after a visit to her grandchildren, he had already made a meal of mashed potatoes, she told the court.&nbsp;

Often, he would bring her ice cream after dinner. "And I thought, ‘How lucky I am, he’s a love."&nbsp;

She said she hardly had any inkling of having been drugged, as she never felt her heart flutter.

"I didn’t feel anything, I must have gone under very quickly. I would wake up with my pyjamas on. The mornings I must have been more tired than usual, but I walk a lot and thought it was that," she told the court, as per the Guardian report.

Gisele Pelicot is expected to return to the court and make more statements as the trial that gripped France and the world would continue into December.

(With inputs from agencies)

Trigger warning: Some readers might find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Gisele Pelicot, who was drugged by her former husband who then invited several men to rape her, took the stance at a French court in the mass rape trial, saying the shame of rape should be on the perpetrators, not the victims.

Trigger warning: Some readers might find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Gisele Pelicot, who was drugged by her former husband who then invited several men to rape her, took the stance at a French court in the mass rape trial, saying the shame of rape should be on the perpetrators, not the victims. Noting that rape exists at all levels, the 57-year old grandmother said victims of rape should be able to say, "Mrs Pelicot did it, we can do it too." "When you’re raped there is shame, and it’s not for us to have shame – it’s for them," she said during the detailed, harrowing and often emotional testimony. Watch: France: Mass rape shocks nation, support pours in for survivor Gisele Pelicot × About her former husband Dominique Pelicot, she said that so many times, she told herself how lucky she was "to have you at my side,” assuming that he was supporting her when she felt sick with neurological issues that later turned out to be resulting from him drugging her. "He was someone I trusted entirely," The Guardian newspaper quoted her as saying. "How can the perfect man have got to this? How could you have betrayed me to this point? How could you have brought these strangers into my bedroom?” Pelicot, who has support from scores of women who now consider her a feminist icon, said it's not bravery, but "the will and determination to change society" that led her to take the stand. It was pointed out in the court that Dominique Pelicot was caught filming up women's skirts in 2020, but Gisele said she thought it was the first time and she could forgive him. But it was found out during the police probe that he had done the same offence a decade ago in a supermarket. Gisele said, if she had been informed about that incident in 2010, she would have left him instead of enduring a decade of rape since then, adding she lost 10 years of her life. Also read: France mass rape case: Accused man, a father of three, admits to sexual assault of Gisele Pelicot The disturbing testimony included questions about a video that had been shown to the court in which she is heard asking to stop. "It was rape," she said, when asked if her words amounted to consent. Describing herself as a woman who is 'totally destroyed,' Gisele said rapists could be in families 'and among our friends'. "This man, who came to rape an unconscious, 57-year-old woman...I am also a mother and grandmother...I could have been his grandmother," she said about one of the accused. Her private life was dragged into the court too, including questions about her extramarital relationship. She said she had told her former husband about it. She noted it was very hard for him. "He couldn’t imagine for a moment I could do that.” The question about the extramarital affair was raised in the context of an accused man saying Dominique Pelicot had acted out of revenge over it. There was also a question about what she was wearing in the videos recorded by Dominique Pelicot during the assaults. The court heard last week how Dominique Pelicot would take off her pyjamas and dress her up in undergarments after drugging her, and before the assaults took place. She told the court that the undergarments in the videos were not hers, as the man must have kept them somewhere and dressed her up when she was sedated and unconscious. Also read: 'Drugged and raped for decades,' Hundreds gather in support of Gisele Pelicot in France She shared having consulted three gynaecologists after feeling unwell, and told the court that he may have spiked her food. Once, she said, he insisted on driving her to a hairdresser, and afterwards she didn't remember the rest of the appoinment at the place. The court had been told that Dominique Pelicot kept the drugs in the house and mixed them in meals or ice cream after dinner. She said he had made a lot of meals, which she saw as a sign of him being caring. On one occasion when she returned after a visit to her grandchildren, he had already made a meal of mashed potatoes, she told the court. Often, he would bring her ice cream after dinner. "And I thought, ‘How lucky I am, he’s a love." She said she hardly had any inkling of having been drugged, as she never felt her heart flutter. "I didn’t feel anything, I must have gone under very quickly. I would wake up with my pyjamas on. The mornings I must have been more tired than usual, but I walk a lot and thought it was that," she told the court, as per the Guardian report. Gisele Pelicot is expected to return to the court and make more statements as the trial that gripped France and the world would continue into December. (With inputs from agencies)

French mass rape trial: Gisele Pelicot makes explosive testimony, says shame is on accused

A rare but deadly 'flesh-eating' bacteria has killed at least 13 people in Florida as the southern US state recovers from the aftermath of two hurricanes.

Cases of Vibrio vulnificus are at a record high of 74 this year in the state, according to media reports citing local health authorities.

This is a sharp increase from 46 cases and 11 deaths for the whole of 2023.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-kerala-reports-fourth-case-of-rare-brain-eating-amoeba-infection-death-toll-at-three-738465">Also read: India's Kerala reports fourth case of rare brain-eating amoeba infection; death toll at three</a>

The people of the state are still picking up the pieces after the devastation by Hurricane Helene in September, which was followed by Hurricane Milton in early October.

The storms led to massive flooding and mixing of freshwater with saltwater, which is ideal for the vibriobacteria to grow.

Watch: &nbsp;Gravitas: 'Flesh-eating disease' spreading at record rate in Japan

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&nbsp;

<h2>What is Vibrio vulnificus?</h2>

Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria living in warm, brackish seawater. It infects people through open wounds or when ingested. To this extent, some experts say that 'flesh-eating bacteria' may be a misnomer, as it cannot infect intact skin.

Heavy rainfall can help the bacteria population to grow, particularly in coastal areas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deaths-happen-within-48-hours-rare-flesh-eating-bacteria-spreads-in-japan-732080">Also read: 'Deaths happen within 48 hours': Rare flesh-eating bacteria spreads in Japan</a> 
 
Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare but can be fatal, with nearly 20 per cent of those infected dying from it.&nbsp;

Once infected, Vibrio vulnificus can prompt the breakdown of skin and soft tissue.

Immuno-compromised people, like the elderly and those suffering from liver diseases, are at greater risk of infection.

As per data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 150 to 200 Vibrio vulnificus cases are reported in the US each year.

<h2>Vibrio vultificus bacteria symptoms</h2>

Fever, redness, and severe tissue damage, which may need amputation to prevent further spread, are among the symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus.

It can also cause watery diarrhoea with stomach cramping, nausea and vomiting.

Chills, low blood pressure and blistering skin lesions are other symptoms.

<h2>Treatment for&nbsp;Vibrio vulnificus </h2>

Those exposed to floodwaters and showing these symptoms should seek medical help&nbsp;immediately.

Treatment includes antibiotics.

In some rare cases, limb amputation may be required to prevent further damage to infected tissue.

<h2>How to prevent vibrio-bacteria&nbsp;infection</h2>

Authorities have asked people to avoid exposure of skin to floodwaters. 
 
Wounds and open cuts should be covered, and exposed skin should be washed thoroughly.

"While floodwaters are present, there is an increased risk of Vibrio infections, such as Vibrio vulnificus, which can be life-threatening," the Florida Health Department said in a release. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A rare but deadly 'flesh-eating' bacteria has killed at least 13 people in Florida as the southern US state recovers from the aftermath of two hurricanes. Cases of Vibrio vulnificus are at a record high of 74 this year in the state, according to media reports citing local health authorities.

A rare but deadly 'flesh-eating' bacteria has killed at least 13 people in Florida as the southern US state recovers from the aftermath of two hurricanes. Cases of Vibrio vulnificus are at a record high of 74 this year in the state, according to media reports citing local health authorities. This is a sharp increase from 46 cases and 11 deaths for the whole of 2023. Also read: India's Kerala reports fourth case of rare brain-eating amoeba infection; death toll at three The people of the state are still picking up the pieces after the devastation by Hurricane Helene in September, which was followed by Hurricane Milton in early October. The storms led to massive flooding and mixing of freshwater with saltwater, which is ideal for the vibriobacteria to grow. Watch: Gravitas: 'Flesh-eating disease' spreading at record rate in Japan × What is Vibrio vulnificus? Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria living in warm, brackish seawater. It infects people through open wounds or when ingested. To this extent, some experts say that 'flesh-eating bacteria' may be a misnomer, as it cannot infect intact skin. Heavy rainfall can help the bacteria population to grow, particularly in coastal areas. Also read: 'Deaths happen within 48 hours': Rare flesh-eating bacteria spreads in Japan Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare but can be fatal, with nearly 20 per cent of those infected dying from it. Once infected, Vibrio vulnificus can prompt the breakdown of skin and soft tissue. Immuno-compromised people, like the elderly and those suffering from liver diseases, are at greater risk of infection. As per data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 150 to 200 Vibrio vulnificus cases are reported in the US each year. Vibrio vultificus bacteria symptoms Fever, redness, and severe tissue damage, which may need amputation to prevent further spread, are among the symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus. It can also cause watery diarrhoea with stomach cramping, nausea and vomiting. Chills, low blood pressure and blistering skin lesions are other symptoms. Treatment for Vibrio vulnificus Those exposed to floodwaters and showing these symptoms should seek medical help immediately. Treatment includes antibiotics. In some rare cases, limb amputation may be required to prevent further damage to infected tissue. How to prevent vibrio-bacteria infection Authorities have asked people to avoid exposure of skin to floodwaters. Wounds and open cuts should be covered, and exposed skin should be washed thoroughly. "While floodwaters are present, there is an increased risk of Vibrio infections, such as Vibrio vulnificus, which can be life-threatening," the Florida Health Department said in a release. (With inputs from agencies)

'Flesh-eating' bacteria kills 13 in Hurricane-hit Florida, cases at record: What is vibrio vulnificus?

People born without the sense of smell breath differently, according to a new study.&nbsp;

The study published in Nature Communications Journal said those with the condition anosmia have a different breathing pattern than those with functioning olfactory systems.

To reach this conclusion, researchers from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel examined 21 people born with anosmia and 31 who had normal smell capabilities.

Watch: Is sense of smell linked to cognitive health?

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Tacking their breathing patterns for 24 hours with airflow measurement devices, they found that those with sense of smell took more frequent sniffs, especially in environments with different odours.

The participants went through their normal daily lives while wearing the devices fitted into their nostrils to measure their airflow.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/our-sense-of-smell-may-not-be-as-good-as-dogs-but-we-are-better-than-earlier-thought-says-study-767685">Also read: Our sense of smell may not be as good as dogs', but we are better than earlier thought, says study</a>

The findings suggest that sniffing is a response to detect smells.

Those with anosmia exhibited more pauses in their breathing when awake, and also had lower airflow rates during exhalation.

The different breathing patterns were present during sleep and even when external smells were consistent, found the study.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/babies-use-scent-of-their-mothers-to-see-faces-of-people-study-742706">Also read: Babies use scent of their mothers to 'see' faces of people: Study</a>

But how are some people without a sense of smell?

“There’s this notion that this sense is completely unimportant, and yet if you lose it then a lot of bad things happen,” Noam Sobel, a co-author of the research, was quoted as saying in The Guardian.

While much of it is congenital, the loss of small has also been linked to various physical and mental health issues like depression.

In recent years, many people infected with Covid lost their sense of smell.

Though the study used machine learning to achieve an 83 per cent accuracy, the sample size is still small.&nbsp;

It nevertheless said that respiratory patterns could significantly impact physical and mental wellbeing.

(With inputs from agencies)

People born without the sense of smell breath differently, according to a new study. The study published in Nature Communications Journal said those with the condition anosmia have a different breathing pattern than those with functioning olfactory systems.

People born without the sense of smell breath differently, according to a new study. The study published in Nature Communications Journal said those with the condition anosmia have a different breathing pattern than those with functioning olfactory systems. To reach this conclusion, researchers from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel examined 21 people born with anosmia and 31 who had normal smell capabilities. Watch: Is sense of smell linked to cognitive health? × Tacking their breathing patterns for 24 hours with airflow measurement devices, they found that those with sense of smell took more frequent sniffs, especially in environments with different odours. The participants went through their normal daily lives while wearing the devices fitted into their nostrils to measure their airflow. Also read: Our sense of smell may not be as good as dogs', but we are better than earlier thought, says study The findings suggest that sniffing is a response to detect smells. Those with anosmia exhibited more pauses in their breathing when awake, and also had lower airflow rates during exhalation. The different breathing patterns were present during sleep and even when external smells were consistent, found the study. Also read: Babies use scent of their mothers to 'see' faces of people: Study But how are some people without a sense of smell? “There’s this notion that this sense is completely unimportant, and yet if you lose it then a lot of bad things happen,” Noam Sobel, a co-author of the research, was quoted as saying in The Guardian. While much of it is congenital, the loss of small has also been linked to various physical and mental health issues like depression. In recent years, many people infected with Covid lost their sense of smell. Though the study used machine learning to achieve an 83 per cent accuracy, the sample size is still small. It nevertheless said that respiratory patterns could significantly impact physical and mental wellbeing. (With inputs from agencies)

Do people without sense of smell breathe differently? Study suggests so

The New York Magazine has parted ways with reporter Olivia Nuzzi, who was in headlines over nude pics sent to former US presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr during a brief text-based affair.

While it was reported that RFK Jr used to boast about having her nudes, his camp later said he had tried to block her number and was 'tricked' into unblocking.

She told him to unblock her as she had information about a hit piece being prepared against RFK Jr, according to his team, which also denied him having boasted about the nudes.

In August, RFK Jr exited his low-chance yet high-profile campaign for president as an independent candidate and endorsed Republican Donald Trump.

Watch: Robert F Kennedy Jr to drop&nbsp;out of US Presidential race&nbsp;

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<h2> 
Who is Olivia Nuzzi?</h2>

Olivia Nuzzi is a political journalist who became the story.&nbsp;

Nuzzi was the &nbsp;Washington Correspondent of New York Magazine for nearly eight years from 2017.

She was earlier a writer for The Daily Beast and covered Trump's 2016 presidential campaign.&nbsp;

She developed what has been described as an 'emotional and digital' relationship over text messages with RFK Jr at a time when he was considering running for president. The affair started after she did an article on RFK Jr, a scion of the storied Kennedy political family.

At some point, she reportedly sent him nudes of herself.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-f-kennedy-jr-had-sexting-affair-with-reporter-who-allegedly-sent-him-nudes-report-760703">Also read: Olivia Nuzzi allegedly sent nudes to Robert F Kennedy Jr during 'sexting' affair: Report</a> 
 
Nuzzi had initially remained silent about the relationship, but later admitted to the magazine about an 'affair with a source', without naming RFK Jr. She eventually named the politician as media reports on the affair started piling up.

She was sent on leave by New ork Magazine, which conducted an internal investigation into whether her relationship caused any bias in her reporting of him.

It found none.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rfk-jr-allegedly-bragged-about-having-intimate-photos-of-us-journalist-reports-761118">Also read: RFK Jr allegedly bragged about having intimate photos of US journalist: Reports</a>

In a statement on Monday (Oct 21), the New York magazine said the law firm it had hired to review Nuzzi’s work found "no inaccuracies nor evidence of bias" in her reporting.&nbsp;

The reporter and the magazine, nevertheless, decided mutually that parting ways was the best option, it said.&nbsp;

The magazine praised Nuzzi's talent and thanked her for her contributions.&nbsp;

"Nuzzi is a uniquely talented writer and we have been proud to publish her work over her nearly eight years as our Washington Correspondent. We wish her the best,” it said.

For her part, Nuzzi's lawyer said she was satisfied with the conclusions of the investigations and noted her successful tenure. &nbsp;

The attorney was 'gratified though not surprised that two different investigations have determined that her reporting on the 2024 campaign was sound and that she did nothing wrong.'

When the issue blew up, Nuzzi issued a statement saying the relationship should have been disclosed to avoid any appearance of conflict of interest.&nbsp;

While she regretted the oversight and apologised to her colleagues and readers, Nuzzi insisted that the relationship was never physical and that she did not report on RFK Jr during the affair.

In an earlier statement in September, the publication had said her conduct violated its standards regarding&nbsp;conflicts of interest and disclosures.

“Had the magazine been aware of this relationship, she would not have continued to cover the presidential campaign,” said the statement issued on 19 September.

Speaking to CNN, an RFK Jr spokesperson had said&nbsp;that Kennedy met Olivia Nuzzi only once in his life for an interview she requested, "which yielded a hit piece”. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The New York Magazine has parted ways with reporter Olivia Nuzzi, who was in headlines over nude pics sent to former US presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr during a brief text-based affair.

The New York Magazine has parted ways with reporter Olivia Nuzzi, who was in headlines over nude pics sent to former US presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr during a brief text-based affair. While it was reported that RFK Jr used to boast about having her nudes, his camp later said he had tried to block her number and was 'tricked' into unblocking. She told him to unblock her as she had information about a hit piece being prepared against RFK Jr, according to his team, which also denied him having boasted about the nudes. In August, RFK Jr exited his low-chance yet high-profile campaign for president as an independent candidate and endorsed Republican Donald Trump. Watch: Robert F Kennedy Jr to drop out of US Presidential race × Who is Olivia Nuzzi? Olivia Nuzzi is a political journalist who became the story. Nuzzi was the Washington Correspondent of New York Magazine for nearly eight years from 2017. She was earlier a writer for The Daily Beast and covered Trump's 2016 presidential campaign. She developed what has been described as an 'emotional and digital' relationship over text messages with RFK Jr at a time when he was considering running for president. The affair started after she did an article on RFK Jr, a scion of the storied Kennedy political family. At some point, she reportedly sent him nudes of herself. Also read: Olivia Nuzzi allegedly sent nudes to Robert F Kennedy Jr during 'sexting' affair: Report Nuzzi had initially remained silent about the relationship, but later admitted to the magazine about an 'affair with a source', without naming RFK Jr. She eventually named the politician as media reports on the affair started piling up. She was sent on leave by New ork Magazine, which conducted an internal investigation into whether her relationship caused any bias in her reporting of him. It found none. Also read: RFK Jr allegedly bragged about having intimate photos of US journalist: Reports In a statement on Monday (Oct 21), the New York magazine said the law firm it had hired to review Nuzzi’s work found "no inaccuracies nor evidence of bias" in her reporting. The reporter and the magazine, nevertheless, decided mutually that parting ways was the best option, it said. The magazine praised Nuzzi's talent and thanked her for her contributions. "Nuzzi is a uniquely talented writer and we have been proud to publish her work over her nearly eight years as our Washington Correspondent. We wish her the best,” it said. For her part, Nuzzi's lawyer said she was satisfied with the conclusions of the investigations and noted her successful tenure. The attorney was 'gratified though not surprised that two different investigations have determined that her reporting on the 2024 campaign was sound and that she did nothing wrong.' When the issue blew up, Nuzzi issued a statement saying the relationship should have been disclosed to avoid any appearance of conflict of interest. While she regretted the oversight and apologised to her colleagues and readers, Nuzzi insisted that the relationship was never physical and that she did not report on RFK Jr during the affair. In an earlier statement in September, the publication had said her conduct violated its standards regarding conflicts of interest and disclosures. “Had the magazine been aware of this relationship, she would not have continued to cover the presidential campaign,” said the statement issued on 19 September. Speaking to CNN, an RFK Jr spokesperson had said that Kennedy met Olivia Nuzzi only once in his life for an interview she requested, "which yielded a hit piece”. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Olivia Nuzzi? Reporter who sent nudes to RFK Jr out of New York Magazine

Microsoft announces Copilot Studio: A sales agent to prioritise leads and craft personalised outreach. A communications agent that will monitor supply chain performance. Customer intent and knowledge management agents that will resolve issues and disseminate best practices autonomously. These are some of the artificial intelligence-powered virtual employees Microsoft is unveiling in November under its Copilot Studio programme.

'AI employees' are autonomous AI virtual assistants&nbsp;that can perform tasks without human intervention.

Watch: Microsoft bets on Germany in $3.4 bn AI push

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In a blog post on Monday (Oct 21), the tech giant said the Copilot Assistants will be available for public preview next month on Copilot Studio.&nbsp;

Copilot users can create and manage agents through&nbsp;Copilot Studio, part of Microsoft Dynamics 365 productivity applications. 
 
It&nbsp;is like a Play Store of AI bots. 
 
Ten such virtual assistants will be launched in the first phase, the blog post said.

The Copilot bots can do simple inquiries as well as complex operations in sales, service, finance, and supply chain management.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-trudges-towards-for-profit-structure-amid-high-profile-exits-762285">Also read: OpenAI trudges towards for-profit structure amid high-profile exits</a>

Some of these pre-built bots have already been adopted by big companies like McKinsey.

Microsoft itself has been using these agents internally to improve sales revenue, customer case resolution, and marketing conversion rates.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said that AI agents can enhance productivity and reduce monotonous tasks.

“These tools are fundamentally changing outsourcing, increasing value and reducing waste,” he said.

The Copilot Studio will allow users, including those without coding skills, to build agents using Microsoft’s AI models, some of which are developed by OpenAI, which made ChatGPT.

Nadella called this a 'no-code way for you to be able to build agents'.&nbsp;

Charles Lamanna, a corporate vice president at Microsoft, was dismissive when asked about the impact the Copilots can have on employment.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/openai-secures-66-billion-in-funding-now-valued-at-157-billion-764082">Also read: OpenAI secures $6.6 billion in funding, now valued at $157 Billion</a>

Saying that the bots will help remove 'mundane, monotonous' aspects of jobs, Lamanna told The Guardian newspaper, “It’s much more of an enabler and an empowerment tool than anything else.”&nbsp;

He compared AI tools such as agents to the arrival of personal computers decades ago.

“The personal computer didn’t show up on every desk to begin with, but eventually it was on every desk because it brought so much capability and information to the fingertips of every employee. 
 
"We think that AI is going to have the same type of journey," he was quoted as saying. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Microsoft announces Copilot Studio: A sales agent to prioritise leads and craft personalised outreach. A communications agent that will monitor supply chain performance.

Microsoft announces Copilot Studio: A sales agent to prioritise leads and craft personalised outreach. A communications agent that will monitor supply chain performance. Customer intent and knowledge management agents that will resolve issues and disseminate best practices autonomously. These are some of the artificial intelligence-powered virtual employees Microsoft is unveiling in November under its Copilot Studio programme. 'AI employees' are autonomous AI virtual assistants that can perform tasks without human intervention. Watch: Microsoft bets on Germany in $3.4 bn AI push × In a blog post on Monday (Oct 21), the tech giant said the Copilot Assistants will be available for public preview next month on Copilot Studio. Copilot users can create and manage agents through Copilot Studio, part of Microsoft Dynamics 365 productivity applications. It is like a Play Store of AI bots. Ten such virtual assistants will be launched in the first phase, the blog post said. The Copilot bots can do simple inquiries as well as complex operations in sales, service, finance, and supply chain management. Also read: OpenAI trudges towards for-profit structure amid high-profile exits Some of these pre-built bots have already been adopted by big companies like McKinsey. Microsoft itself has been using these agents internally to improve sales revenue, customer case resolution, and marketing conversion rates. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said that AI agents can enhance productivity and reduce monotonous tasks. “These tools are fundamentally changing outsourcing, increasing value and reducing waste,” he said. The Copilot Studio will allow users, including those without coding skills, to build agents using Microsoft’s AI models, some of which are developed by OpenAI, which made ChatGPT. Nadella called this a 'no-code way for you to be able to build agents'. Charles Lamanna, a corporate vice president at Microsoft, was dismissive when asked about the impact the Copilots can have on employment. Also read: OpenAI secures $6.6 billion in funding, now valued at $157 Billion Saying that the bots will help remove 'mundane, monotonous' aspects of jobs, Lamanna told The Guardian newspaper, “It’s much more of an enabler and an empowerment tool than anything else.” He compared AI tools such as agents to the arrival of personal computers decades ago. “The personal computer didn’t show up on every desk to begin with, but eventually it was on every desk because it brought so much capability and information to the fingertips of every employee. "We think that AI is going to have the same type of journey," he was quoted as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

AI employees are here: Microsoft Copilot assistants coming to a device near you in November

If 'leaked' US intelligence documents are to be believed, Israel will strike Iran in the coming days using air-launched missiles that would target Tehran's military facilities.

Israel has been reportedly planning a response to Iran after Tehran fired a volley of ballistic missiles at the Jewish nation on October 1&nbsp;following the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon on 27 September in an Israeli intelligence-led operation.

Watch:&nbsp;Iran-Israel War: What Are Israel's Targets In Iran?

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The purportedly&nbsp;leaked documents shared on the messaging app Telegram were dated 15-16 October and are alleged to contain the assessment of the US National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency on Israel's military plans.

The two documents were based on satellite imagery and other intelligence, with very specific details of Israeli preparations, according to reports.&nbsp;

The US is investigating how the alleged intelligence documents got leaked online, which in itself is a possible proof that those are genuine, at least partially.

There is speculation that the documents were leaked deliberately to thwart Israel's plans.

The highly classified documents, marked 'Top Secret', could have been obtained through hacking by Iran.

Noting that President Joe Biden was "deeply concerned" about the leak, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Monday (Oct 21) that it was not yet determined if they were a result of a hack or a leak.

The whole thing is an embarrassment for the US, as the documents, if true, showed how Washington spies on its allies as much as its enemies.

The documents are being seen as genuine by analysts due to the presence of a bunch of code words and acronyms such as FGI and TK.&nbsp;

FGI &nbsp;means Foreign Government Intelligence and TK stands for Talent Keyhole, denoting satellite-based Signals Intelligence or SIGINT and Imagery Intelligence or IMINT, the BBC said in a report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israeli-pm-netanyahu-asked-my-opinion-about-what-to-do-with-iran-trump-769302">Also read: West Asia crisis | Israeli PM Netanyahu asked my opinion about what to do with Iran: Trump</a> 
 
The documents were possibly meant for the Five Eyes, the intelligence alliance of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

The plan's details were outed even as the US was trying to dissuade Israel from attacking oil facilities and nuclear installations of Iran, for fear of repercussions for global trade.

<h2>So, how will Israel's attack on Iran unfold as per alleged US intel documents?</h2>

The documents indicate that the Israeli Air Force would use long-range Air-Launched Ballistic Missiles or ABLMs on Iran.

These ABLMs were named in the documents as the Golden Horizon and Rocks systems.

Rocks system can be launched on targets both above and below ground.

Golden Horizon might be a reference to the Blue Sparrow missile system which has a range of around 2,000km, according to the BBC report.

The ABLMs may be chosen due to their capability to target Iran without having to fly over other countries in the region like Jordan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-dismantles-alleged-iran-spy-network-in-country-arrests-seven-citizens-769538">Also read: Israel dismantles Iran ‘spy network’ in country, arrests seven citizens</a> 
 
The attack might be a far greater version of its ABLM strike on Iran's radar site near Isfahan in April, as per analysts.

Contrary to the fears that Israel might hit oil facilities, the documents suggest it might strike Iran's military targets, though these targets were not named, nor the timing of the possible operation.

So if Tel Aviv will not target Iran's nuclear or energy facilities, the next possible option could be the military bases of the Iran &nbsp;Revolutionary Guards Corps or IRGC and its Basij militia.

IRGC and Basij are known to have trained and equipped Iran's proxies in West Asian countries like Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen and Syria, including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthi rebels, who target Israel.

<h2>When will Israel attack Iran?</h2>

The timing of Israel's possible strike on&nbsp;Iran is still up in the air.&nbsp;

Iran itself had waited nearly two weeks to respond to an Israeli strike in Damascus, Syria, that killed some senior IRGC commanders in April.

There's fear in Washington that the Israeli strike any time before the US presidential election on November 5 would be damaging to the process. Israel could utilise the twilight zone between the two US presidencies to carry out the attack.

<h2>Will Iran- Israel conflict become a nuclear war?</h2>

The US documents do not mention any nuclear deterrent preparations from Israel.&nbsp;

This is significant as there's consternation in the US and international community that Iran may go nuclear on Israel.

Though officially still a non-nuclear nation that uses atomic energy for peaceful purposes, Iran has the capability to enrich uranium to weapons-grade as per Israeli assessments.&nbsp;

Israel is a nuclear power but does not publicly acknowledge it, and there's no certainty on the exact nature or number of its arsenal.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

If 'leaked' US intelligence documents are to be believed, Israel will strike Iran in the coming days using air-launched missiles that would target Tehran's military facilities.

If 'leaked' US intelligence documents are to be believed, Israel will strike Iran in the coming days using air-launched missiles that would target Tehran's military facilities. Israel has been reportedly planning a response to Iran after Tehran fired a volley of ballistic missiles at the Jewish nation on October 1 following the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon on 27 September in an Israeli intelligence-led operation. Watch: Iran-Israel War: What Are Israel's Targets In Iran? × The purportedly leaked documents shared on the messaging app Telegram were dated 15-16 October and are alleged to contain the assessment of the US National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency on Israel's military plans. The two documents were based on satellite imagery and other intelligence, with very specific details of Israeli preparations, according to reports. The US is investigating how the alleged intelligence documents got leaked online, which in itself is a possible proof that those are genuine, at least partially. There is speculation that the documents were leaked deliberately to thwart Israel's plans. The highly classified documents, marked 'Top Secret', could have been obtained through hacking by Iran. Noting that President Joe Biden was "deeply concerned" about the leak, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Monday (Oct 21) that it was not yet determined if they were a result of a hack or a leak. The whole thing is an embarrassment for the US, as the documents, if true, showed how Washington spies on its allies as much as its enemies. The documents are being seen as genuine by analysts due to the presence of a bunch of code words and acronyms such as FGI and TK. FGI means Foreign Government Intelligence and TK stands for Talent Keyhole, denoting satellite-based Signals Intelligence or SIGINT and Imagery Intelligence or IMINT, the BBC said in a report. Also read: West Asia crisis | Israeli PM Netanyahu asked my opinion about what to do with Iran: Trump The documents were possibly meant for the Five Eyes, the intelligence alliance of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The plan's details were outed even as the US was trying to dissuade Israel from attacking oil facilities and nuclear installations of Iran, for fear of repercussions for global trade. So, how will Israel's attack on Iran unfold as per alleged US intel documents? The documents indicate that the Israeli Air Force would use long-range Air-Launched Ballistic Missiles or ABLMs on Iran. These ABLMs were named in the documents as the Golden Horizon and Rocks systems. Rocks system can be launched on targets both above and below ground. Golden Horizon might be a reference to the Blue Sparrow missile system which has a range of around 2,000km, according to the BBC report. The ABLMs may be chosen due to their capability to target Iran without having to fly over other countries in the region like Jordan. Also read: Israel dismantles Iran ‘spy network’ in country, arrests seven citizens The attack might be a far greater version of its ABLM strike on Iran's radar site near Isfahan in April, as per analysts. Contrary to the fears that Israel might hit oil facilities, the documents suggest it might strike Iran's military targets, though these targets were not named, nor the timing of the possible operation. So if Tel Aviv will not target Iran's nuclear or energy facilities, the next possible option could be the military bases of the Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps or IRGC and its Basij militia. IRGC and Basij are known to have trained and equipped Iran's proxies in West Asian countries like Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen and Syria, including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthi rebels, who target Israel. When will Israel attack Iran? The timing of Israel's possible strike on Iran is still up in the air. Iran itself had waited nearly two weeks to respond to an Israeli strike in Damascus, Syria, that killed some senior IRGC commanders in April. There's fear in Washington that the Israeli strike any time before the US presidential election on November 5 would be damaging to the process. Israel could utilise the twilight zone between the two US presidencies to carry out the attack. Will Iran- Israel conflict become a nuclear war? The US documents do not mention any nuclear deterrent preparations from Israel. This is significant as there's consternation in the US and international community that Iran may go nuclear on Israel. Though officially still a non-nuclear nation that uses atomic energy for peaceful purposes, Iran has the capability to enrich uranium to weapons-grade as per Israeli assessments. Israel is a nuclear power but does not publicly acknowledge it, and there's no certainty on the exact nature or number of its arsenal. (With inputs from agencies)

How will Israel attack Iran? Strike plan as revealed by documents leaked online

British model Bianca Gascoigne has come out publicly to accuse Mohamed al-Fayed, the&nbsp;late owner of Harrods,&nbsp;of grooming and sexually assaulting her when she was a teenager employed at the luxury department store.

Speaking to Sky News on Monday (Oct 21), the daughter of former footballer Paul Gascoigne recalled how Fayed tried to force her into sexual acts after offering her an apartment room for a night's stay when she was around 16 years of age.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/mohamed-al-fayed-was-a-rapist-20-women-come-out-against-father-of-lady-dianas-boyfriend-dodi-al-fayed-760351">Also read: Mohamed Al Fayed was a rapist? 20 women come out against father of Lady Diana's boyfriend Dodi Al Fayed</a> 
 
She said Fayed, who used to be charming and generous to her and family, made a surprise visit to the apartment, and made sexual advances.

She said Fayed turned up at the apartment to her shock. "I was just gobsmacked, I was kind of very shell-shocked, I just didn't really know what to do," she told the channel.

In her telling, Fayad tried to push her hands to his private parts after exposing himself, and at one point pushed her head to his lap.

"And I don't know how but I managed to wiggle away...And I think possibly you know, that him knowing my parents ... I don't know, that might have saved me at that moment. But it was horrific."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-60-more-women-allege-ex-harrods-owner-al-fayed-of-sexual-abuse-766371">Also read: Over 60 more women accuse ex-Harrods owner Al-Fayed of sexual abuse</a>

The 37-year-old model opened up about the ordeal in the wake of scores of complaints against Fayed who died at the age of 94 in 2023.

The sexual assault claims range from misconduct to rape, and lasted over decades.&nbsp;

The current owners of Harrods are settling more than 250 compensation claims from sexual assault survivors including incidents recounted in a BBC documentary, Al Fayed: Predator At Harrods.&nbsp;

Watch: Sean 'Diddy' Combs Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Minor

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The documentary had interviews and stories of several women who faced sexual misconduct over decades from the Egyptian-origin businessman, whose son Dodi was once the boyfriend of Princess Diana. They both died together in a Paris car crash.

Harrods said&nbsp;several former staff came forward after the airing of the documentary which led the luxury department store to facilitate direct settlement processes.&nbsp;

The Metropolitan Police have initiated a thorough review of allegations against Fayed.

It is looking into whether to charge him based on allegations made by two out of 21 women who reported abuse from 2005 to 2023.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

British model Bianca Gascoigne has come out publicly to accuse Mohamed al-Fayed, the late owner of Harrods, of grooming and sexually assaulting her when she was a teenager employed at the luxury department store.

British model Bianca Gascoigne has come out publicly to accuse Mohamed al-Fayed, the late owner of Harrods, of grooming and sexually assaulting her when she was a teenager employed at the luxury department store. Speaking to Sky News on Monday (Oct 21), the daughter of former footballer Paul Gascoigne recalled how Fayed tried to force her into sexual acts after offering her an apartment room for a night's stay when she was around 16 years of age. Also read: Mohamed Al Fayed was a rapist? 20 women come out against father of Lady Diana's boyfriend Dodi Al Fayed She said Fayed, who used to be charming and generous to her and family, made a surprise visit to the apartment, and made sexual advances. She said Fayed turned up at the apartment to her shock. "I was just gobsmacked, I was kind of very shell-shocked, I just didn't really know what to do," she told the channel. In her telling, Fayad tried to push her hands to his private parts after exposing himself, and at one point pushed her head to his lap. "And I don't know how but I managed to wiggle away...And I think possibly you know, that him knowing my parents ... I don't know, that might have saved me at that moment. But it was horrific." Also read: Over 60 more women accuse ex-Harrods owner Al-Fayed of sexual abuse The 37-year-old model opened up about the ordeal in the wake of scores of complaints against Fayed who died at the age of 94 in 2023. The sexual assault claims range from misconduct to rape, and lasted over decades. The current owners of Harrods are settling more than 250 compensation claims from sexual assault survivors including incidents recounted in a BBC documentary, Al Fayed: Predator At Harrods. Watch: Sean 'Diddy' Combs Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Minor × The documentary had interviews and stories of several women who faced sexual misconduct over decades from the Egyptian-origin businessman, whose son Dodi was once the boyfriend of Princess Diana. They both died together in a Paris car crash. Harrods said several former staff came forward after the airing of the documentary which led the luxury department store to facilitate direct settlement processes. The Metropolitan Police have initiated a thorough review of allegations against Fayed. It is looking into whether to charge him based on allegations made by two out of 21 women who reported abuse from 2005 to 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Mohamed al-Fayed sex abuse: UK model Bianca Gascoigne speaks out; Harrods settling with 250 accusers

Chinese Navy's training ship Qi Jiguang and amphibious dock landing ship Jinggangshan docked at Bangladesh's Chittagong this weekend, a move that should raise security concerns for India.

The docking on Saturday (Oct 13) as part of a three-day goodwill visit was the first since the dramatic events of August that saw the ouster of Sheikh Hasina as Bangladesh prime minister after months-long student-led protests and the installation of an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus.&nbsp;

Watch: Bangladesh crisis: India expresses concern over Bangladesh crisis

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The port call, characterised by Chinese envoy to Bangladesh Yao Wen as a symbol of strengthening of Bangladesh-China ties, aims to enhance cooperation with the Bangladesh Navy.

Delhi circles are viewing this as another instance of China exerting its influence in the region.&nbsp;Some security analysts are setting off alarm bells about the increasing Chinese influence in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This is a threat to India's influence, with Frédéric Grare of the Australian National University noting that the China-Bangladesh dynamics could unsettle India.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-ambassador-to-bangladesh-praises-students-who-protested-against-previous-hasina-govt-766810">Also read: Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh praises students who protested against previous Hasina govt</a> 
 
While the port visit of Chinese ships is a mark of continuity and not a qualitative change in relationship, Delhi should and is probably worried about the overall dynamic and uncomfortable with the present uncertainty, The South China Morning Post quoted him as saying.

The Bangladesh port call comes close on the heels of similar military gengagesments by China in South Asia, including&nbsp;the establishment of a submarine base in Bangladesh in May and presence of Chinese ships in Sri Lanaka.&nbsp;

“These facilities can also host Chinese research vessels, whose increasing presence in the Indian Ocean, particularly around the Maldives and Sri Lanka, is a growing concern for New Delhi,” Viraj Solanki from the International Institute for Strategic Studies told the paper.

A Chinese naval ship recently docked in Sri Lanka, amid consternation in India about the so-called 'research vessels' visiting ports in the island nation,&nbsp;which India suspects are maritime surveillance operations.

India and the current regime in Bangladesh have not started off well, particularly as New Delhi was seen to be supporting Hasina, who had sought refuge in the neighbouring country after the political upheaval of August.

The support China shows to Yunus regime&nbsp;should make India shift its approach towards Bangladesh, according to analysts.

Bangladesh is strategically significant in regional geopolitics, a fact underscored by the Chinese naval diplomacy.

In May, the two nations held the first joint military training exercise, The Golden Friendship, focused on anti-terrorism and UN peacekeeping operations. Chinese defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian said it included hostage rescue&nbsp; and counter-terror drills.

With China in mind, India is also enhancing its defence cooperation with neighbours.

Earlier in October, India and the Maldives agreed to enhance maritime security cooperation after a visit by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-president-in-india-new-delhi-male-sign-key-projects-including-launch-of-rupay-card-in-maldives-765134">Also read: Indian, Maldivian govts sign MoUs including currency swap deal worth $400 million</a>

With Sri Lanka, India established maritime rescue coordination centres in June in Hambantota and Colombo. India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Mauritius are part of the Colombo Security Conclave on maritime cooperation.

For its part, China had entered into several pacts with Bangladesh before the August uprising. Pooja Bhatt at the Jindal School of International Affairs in India noted that Beijing is keen to continue these engagements and revive its military ties with Bangladesh under its new government.

Lailufar Yasmin at the University of Dhaka said the arrival of Chinese vessels should prompt Delhi to reassess its relationship with the new Bangladeshi government. “It should also carefully consider the overwhelming support that the new regime of Bangladesh received worldwide, including in China and carefully recalibrate its relationship with Bangladesh 2.0.”&nbsp;

"India should start recognising the rationale behind the Bangladesh revolution instead of pointing fingers at external actors,” SCMP quoted her as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese Navy's training ship Qi Jiguang and amphibious dock landing ship Jinggangshan docked at Bangladesh's Chittagong this weekend, a move that should raise security concerns for India.

Chinese Navy's training ship Qi Jiguang and amphibious dock landing ship Jinggangshan docked at Bangladesh's Chittagong this weekend, a move that should raise security concerns for India. The docking on Saturday (Oct 13) as part of a three-day goodwill visit was the first since the dramatic events of August that saw the ouster of Sheikh Hasina as Bangladesh prime minister after months-long student-led protests and the installation of an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. Watch: Bangladesh crisis: India expresses concern over Bangladesh crisis × The port call, characterised by Chinese envoy to Bangladesh Yao Wen as a symbol of strengthening of Bangladesh-China ties, aims to enhance cooperation with the Bangladesh Navy. Delhi circles are viewing this as another instance of China exerting its influence in the region. Some security analysts are setting off alarm bells about the increasing Chinese influence in the region. This is a threat to India's influence, with Frédéric Grare of the Australian National University noting that the China-Bangladesh dynamics could unsettle India. Also read: Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh praises students who protested against previous Hasina govt While the port visit of Chinese ships is a mark of continuity and not a qualitative change in relationship, Delhi should and is probably worried about the overall dynamic and uncomfortable with the present uncertainty, The South China Morning Post quoted him as saying. The Bangladesh port call comes close on the heels of similar military gengagesments by China in South Asia, including the establishment of a submarine base in Bangladesh in May and presence of Chinese ships in Sri Lanaka. “These facilities can also host Chinese research vessels, whose increasing presence in the Indian Ocean, particularly around the Maldives and Sri Lanka, is a growing concern for New Delhi,” Viraj Solanki from the International Institute for Strategic Studies told the paper. A Chinese naval ship recently docked in Sri Lanka, amid consternation in India about the so-called 'research vessels' visiting ports in the island nation, which India suspects are maritime surveillance operations. India and the current regime in Bangladesh have not started off well, particularly as New Delhi was seen to be supporting Hasina, who had sought refuge in the neighbouring country after the political upheaval of August. The support China shows to Yunus regime should make India shift its approach towards Bangladesh, according to analysts. Bangladesh is strategically significant in regional geopolitics, a fact underscored by the Chinese naval diplomacy. In May, the two nations held the first joint military training exercise, The Golden Friendship, focused on anti-terrorism and UN peacekeeping operations. Chinese defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian said it included hostage rescue and counter-terror drills. With China in mind, India is also enhancing its defence cooperation with neighbours. Earlier in October, India and the Maldives agreed to enhance maritime security cooperation after a visit by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu. Also read: Indian, Maldivian govts sign MoUs including currency swap deal worth $400 million With Sri Lanka, India established maritime rescue coordination centres in June in Hambantota and Colombo. India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Mauritius are part of the Colombo Security Conclave on maritime cooperation. For its part, China had entered into several pacts with Bangladesh before the August uprising. Pooja Bhatt at the Jindal School of International Affairs in India noted that Beijing is keen to continue these engagements and revive its military ties with Bangladesh under its new government. Lailufar Yasmin at the University of Dhaka said the arrival of Chinese vessels should prompt Delhi to reassess its relationship with the new Bangladeshi government. “It should also carefully consider the overwhelming support that the new regime of Bangladesh received worldwide, including in China and carefully recalibrate its relationship with Bangladesh 2.0.” "India should start recognising the rationale behind the Bangladesh revolution instead of pointing fingers at external actors,” SCMP quoted her as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese Navy ships docked in Bangladesh this weekend. Why should it be of concern to India?

British officials splurging on taxpayers' money is nothing new, but former foreign secretary James Cleverly might come among the top spenders, having blown up around 165,561 pounds on a trip to Rwanda with officials and a TV crew. That trip, which works out to 655 pounds per person, was for a Quixotic deportation deal of Britain with Rwanda that eventually did not send even a single person to the African nation.

Cleverly, who was vying for the leadership of Conservatives just recently before being ousted from the race, took the trip in December 2023, according to a report in The Guardian on Monday (Oct 21). The 11-hour trip was to the Rwandan capital of Kigali to sign a deportation deal to house asylum seekers in the African nation.

As per details obtained under a Freedom of Information request, Cleverly used a chartered private jet whose in-flight catering expenses alone were more than 9,800 pounds. The TV crew paid for its own food.

Watch: UK Public Finances under spotlight as Labour announces spending cuts

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&nbsp;

The catering cost included transporting of cookware. The deal which Cleverly signed at the time was part of the Rwanda Bill introduced by the Tory government, which the new Labour administration of Prime Minister Kier Starmer overturned soon after coming into power.

The bill, described by Labour as a gimmick and a waste of money, was dead on arrival as the then Tory Prime Minister Rishi Sunak could not overcome legal challenges and political opposition to operate the flights that were to have taken the migrants to the African nation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-labour-party-received-gifts-worth-1bn-from-betting-and-gambling-firms-763889">Also read: UK's Labour Party received gifts worth $1bn from betting and gambling firms</a>

The Guardian report also said that during his stint as the former foreign secretary, Cleverly spent more than 22,320 pounds on in-flight catering during a July 2023 journey of five nations, including Japan and Indonesia.

That works out to 1,488 per person. The full cost of the flights for Cleverly and his 14-person entourage was 561,531 pounds.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keir-starmer-unwilling-to-proceed-with-rwanda-migrant-deportation-plan-738517">Also read: UK PM Keir Starmer unwilling to proceed with Rwanda migrant deportation plan</a>

The Guardian quoted a Labour Party source as saying that, despite spending 700 million pounds on the Rwanda scheme, including Cleverly’s flight to Kigali, the Tories "did not stop one small boat or deport one single person as a result of that scheme."

“On the contrary, 84,000 people crossed the Channel from the day the scheme was introduced to the day it was scrapped, and the only people who ended up in Rwanda were four volunteers," said the source.

(With inputs from agencies)

British officials splurging on taxpayers' money is nothing new, but former foreign secretary James Cleverly might come among the top spenders, having blown up around 165,561 pounds on a trip to Rwanda with officials and a TV crew.

British officials splurging on taxpayers' money is nothing new, but former foreign secretary James Cleverly might come among the top spenders, having blown up around 165,561 pounds on a trip to Rwanda with officials and a TV crew. That trip, which works out to 655 pounds per person, was for a Quixotic deportation deal of Britain with Rwanda that eventually did not send even a single person to the African nation. Cleverly, who was vying for the leadership of Conservatives just recently before being ousted from the race, took the trip in December 2023, according to a report in The Guardian on Monday (Oct 21). The 11-hour trip was to the Rwandan capital of Kigali to sign a deportation deal to house asylum seekers in the African nation. As per details obtained under a Freedom of Information request, Cleverly used a chartered private jet whose in-flight catering expenses alone were more than 9,800 pounds. The TV crew paid for its own food. Watch: UK Public Finances under spotlight as Labour announces spending cuts × The catering cost included transporting of cookware. The deal which Cleverly signed at the time was part of the Rwanda Bill introduced by the Tory government, which the new Labour administration of Prime Minister Kier Starmer overturned soon after coming into power. The bill, described by Labour as a gimmick and a waste of money, was dead on arrival as the then Tory Prime Minister Rishi Sunak could not overcome legal challenges and political opposition to operate the flights that were to have taken the migrants to the African nation. Also read: UK's Labour Party received gifts worth $1bn from betting and gambling firms The Guardian report also said that during his stint as the former foreign secretary, Cleverly spent more than 22,320 pounds on in-flight catering during a July 2023 journey of five nations, including Japan and Indonesia. That works out to 1,488 per person. The full cost of the flights for Cleverly and his 14-person entourage was 561,531 pounds. Also read: UK PM Keir Starmer unwilling to proceed with Rwanda migrant deportation plan The Guardian quoted a Labour Party source as saying that, despite spending 700 million pounds on the Rwanda scheme, including Cleverly’s flight to Kigali, the Tories "did not stop one small boat or deport one single person as a result of that scheme." “On the contrary, 84,000 people crossed the Channel from the day the scheme was introduced to the day it was scrapped, and the only people who ended up in Rwanda were four volunteers," said the source. (With inputs from agencies)

James Cleverly, UK ex-home secy, spent tens of thousands of pounds on a Rwanda trip, all for nothing

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