Hezbollah said Wednesday it had fired a ballistic missile targeting Israeli spy agency Mossad's headquarters near Tel Aviv, saying that recent attacks on the militant group had been planned there.

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It is the first time the group has claimed a ballistic missile strike since its nearly year-long battle with Israel began after Hamas carried out its October 7 attack.

Earlier Wednesday, Israel's military had said it intercepted a missile fired from Lebanon after sirens sounded in Tel Aviv.

"The Islamic Resistance launched a 'Qader 1' ballistic missile at 6:30 am (0330 GMT) on Wednesday, 25-9-2024, targeting the Mossad headquarters in the outskirts of Tel Aviv," Hezbollah said in a statement.

"This headquarters is responsible for the assassination of leaders and the explosion of pagers and wireless devices," it added, referring to attacks last week that killed scores in Lebanon including a top commander.

It also said the strike was carried out in support of the people of Gaza and "in defence of Lebanon and its people".

Longtime foes Hezbollah and Israel have been locked in near-daily exchanges of cross-border fire since Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7.

The Hamas attack sparked a war in Gaza that has drawn in Hezbollah and other Iran-backed militants from across the Middle East.

The focus of Israel's firepower has shifted sharply from Gaza to Lebanon in recent days.

The Lebanese health ministry said Israeli strikes killed at least 558 people on Monday -- the deadliest day of violence in the country since its 1975-90 civil war.&nbsp;

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Hezbollah said Wednesday it had fired a ballistic missile targeting Israeli spy agency Mossad's headquarters near Tel Aviv, saying that recent attacks on the militant group had been planned there.

Hezbollah said Wednesday it had fired a ballistic missile targeting Israeli spy agency Mossad's headquarters near Tel Aviv, saying that recent attacks on the militant group had been planned there. It is the first time the group has claimed a ballistic missile strike since its nearly year-long battle with Israel began after Hamas carried out its October 7 attack. Earlier Wednesday, Israel's military had said it intercepted a missile fired from Lebanon after sirens sounded in Tel Aviv. "The Islamic Resistance launched a 'Qader 1' ballistic missile at 6:30 am (0330 GMT) on Wednesday, 25-9-2024, targeting the Mossad headquarters in the outskirts of Tel Aviv," Hezbollah said in a statement. "This headquarters is responsible for the assassination of leaders and the explosion of pagers and wireless devices," it added, referring to attacks last week that killed scores in Lebanon including a top commander. It also said the strike was carried out in support of the people of Gaza and "in defence of Lebanon and its people". Longtime foes Hezbollah and Israel have been locked in near-daily exchanges of cross-border fire since Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7. The Hamas attack sparked a war in Gaza that has drawn in Hezbollah and other Iran-backed militants from across the Middle East. The focus of Israel's firepower has shifted sharply from Gaza to Lebanon in recent days. The Lebanese health ministry said Israeli strikes killed at least 558 people on Monday -- the deadliest day of violence in the country since its 1975-90 civil war. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hezbollah claims ballistic missile strike on Mossad HQ near Tel Aviv

Amid the controversy surrounding Tirupati laddus, the Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has collected 13 samples of items being sold as 'prasadam' outside the temples here and sent them for testing, an official said on Sunday.

The samples were collected over the past two days from the famous Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple of Mathura, Thakur Banke Bihari temple of Vrindavan and the Daan Ghati temple of Govardhan.

FSDA Assistant Commissioner Dhirendra Pratap Singh said the action has been taken in light of the alleged adulteration of Tirupati laddus.

After the laboratory report comes in, it will be known if there is any kind of adulteration in the items being sold here as 'prasadam', he said.

Singh said a campaign will be run in the entire district from Monday and teams will go to every area to collect samples.

He said that in the last two days, the team had collected samples from about 13 places and sent them to the laboratory.

Further action will be taken based on the report, he said.

The assistant commissioner also said all the shopkeepers have been warned not to mix any unwanted substance in any food item, let alone 'prasadam'.

Playing with the health of people will not be tolerated at any cost, he said.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's claim that animal fat was used in Tirupati laddus during the previous government has triggered a massive political row, with the YSRCP accusing Naidu of indulging in "heinous allegations" for political gains and the TDP circulating a lab report to back its claim.

During an NDA legislature party meeting on Wednesday, Naidu claimed that the previous YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government did not even spare the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirupati and used substandard ingredients and animal fat to make laddus. 
&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Amid the controversy surrounding Tirupati laddus, the Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has collected 13 samples of items being sold as 'prasadam' outside the temples here and sent them for testing, an official said on Sunday.

Amid the controversy surrounding Tirupati laddus, the Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has collected 13 samples of items being sold as 'prasadam' outside the temples here and sent them for testing, an official said on Sunday. The samples were collected over the past two days from the famous Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple of Mathura, Thakur Banke Bihari temple of Vrindavan and the Daan Ghati temple of Govardhan. FSDA Assistant Commissioner Dhirendra Pratap Singh said the action has been taken in light of the alleged adulteration of Tirupati laddus. After the laboratory report comes in, it will be known if there is any kind of adulteration in the items being sold here as 'prasadam', he said. Singh said a campaign will be run in the entire district from Monday and teams will go to every area to collect samples. He said that in the last two days, the team had collected samples from about 13 places and sent them to the laboratory. Further action will be taken based on the report, he said. The assistant commissioner also said all the shopkeepers have been warned not to mix any unwanted substance in any food item, let alone 'prasadam'. Playing with the health of people will not be tolerated at any cost, he said. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's claim that animal fat was used in Tirupati laddus during the previous government has triggered a massive political row, with the YSRCP accusing Naidu of indulging in "heinous allegations" for political gains and the TDP circulating a lab report to back its claim. During an NDA legislature party meeting on Wednesday, Naidu claimed that the previous YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government did not even spare the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirupati and used substandard ingredients and animal fat to make laddus. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tirupati laddu row: 'Prasadam' samples collected from famous temples of Mathura

The UN&nbsp;human rights chief on Tuesday (Sep 24) called on anyone with influence in the Middle East to seek to avert an escalation in hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, as intensifying cross-border attacks increased fears of a full-blown war.

Israel struck Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon and its Iran-backed arch-foe attacked military facilities in northern Israel on Tuesday, after Lebanon suffered its deadliest day in decades with more than 500 people killed.

"UN High Commissioner Volker Turk calls on all states and actors with influence in the region and beyond to avert further escalation and do everything they can to ensure full respect for international law," Ravina Shamdasani, the spokesperson for Turk said at a Geneva press briefing.

"The methods and means of warfare that are being used raise very serious concerns about whether this is compliant with international humanitarian law," she added.

Asked about reports that Israel had warned people through phone messages ahead of the strikes, she said: "Whether you've sent out a warning you're telling civilians to flee doesn't make it okay to then strike those areas, knowing full well that the impact on civilians will be huge."

At the same press briefing, Abdinasir Abubakar, a World Health Organization (WHO) official in Lebanon, said that some hospitals in the country were "overwhelmed" by the thousands of wounded people arriving. At least four healthcare workers had been killed on Monday, he added.

"We have some evidence, and we have some documentation that shows that at least there were some attacks on health facilities, even the ambulances as well," he told the briefing, condemning the impact on Lebanon's fragile health sector.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Lebanon's people on Monday, saying: "Israel's war is not with you, it's with Hezbollah." For too long Hezbollah has been using you as human shields."

The UN&nbsp;refugee agency's spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh said more people are expected to flee their homes and that the agency is seeking to identify new shelters for displaced people around Beirut and the Bekaa valley.

"We're looking at tens of thousands (of displaced), but we expect that those figures will start to rise," he said. "The situation is extremely alarming. It's very chaotic, and we are doing what we can to support the government."

Schools have been closed across the country as some facilities have been transformed into shelters, said Ettie Higgins, UNICEF Deputy Representative in Lebanon.

"This is leaving many children at home or in shelters in total fear," she said. Hundreds of other children had travelled out of southern areas overnight, she added, some with no belongings besides the clothes they were wearing.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The UN human rights chief on Tuesday (Sep 24) called on anyone with influence in the Middle East to seek to avert an escalation in hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, as intensifying cross-border attacks increased fears of a full-blown war.

The UN human rights chief on Tuesday (Sep 24) called on anyone with influence in the Middle East to seek to avert an escalation in hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, as intensifying cross-border attacks increased fears of a full-blown war. Israel struck Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon and its Iran-backed arch-foe attacked military facilities in northern Israel on Tuesday, after Lebanon suffered its deadliest day in decades with more than 500 people killed. "UN High Commissioner Volker Turk calls on all states and actors with influence in the region and beyond to avert further escalation and do everything they can to ensure full respect for international law," Ravina Shamdasani, the spokesperson for Turk said at a Geneva press briefing. "The methods and means of warfare that are being used raise very serious concerns about whether this is compliant with international humanitarian law," she added. Asked about reports that Israel had warned people through phone messages ahead of the strikes, she said: "Whether you've sent out a warning you're telling civilians to flee doesn't make it okay to then strike those areas, knowing full well that the impact on civilians will be huge." At the same press briefing, Abdinasir Abubakar, a World Health Organization (WHO) official in Lebanon, said that some hospitals in the country were "overwhelmed" by the thousands of wounded people arriving. At least four healthcare workers had been killed on Monday, he added. "We have some evidence, and we have some documentation that shows that at least there were some attacks on health facilities, even the ambulances as well," he told the briefing, condemning the impact on Lebanon's fragile health sector. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Lebanon's people on Monday, saying: "Israel's war is not with you, it's with Hezbollah." For too long Hezbollah has been using you as human shields." The UN refugee agency's spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh said more people are expected to flee their homes and that the agency is seeking to identify new shelters for displaced people around Beirut and the Bekaa valley. "We're looking at tens of thousands (of displaced), but we expect that those figures will start to rise," he said. "The situation is extremely alarming. It's very chaotic, and we are doing what we can to support the government." Schools have been closed across the country as some facilities have been transformed into shelters, said Ettie Higgins, UNICEF Deputy Representative in Lebanon. "This is leaving many children at home or in shelters in total fear," she said. Hundreds of other children had travelled out of southern areas overnight, she added, some with no belongings besides the clothes they were wearing. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UN human rights chief calls for diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation between Israel and Hezbollah

The Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad on Tuesday said mishri (sugar crystals), cardamom seeds and dry fruits offered traditionally to the Hindu deities as 'bhog' should be distributed among devotees as prasad at temples instead of prepared delicacies such as laddu to prevent adulteration.

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The statement by the seers' body comes amid the outrage over alleged adulteration of the laddu prasad offered to devotees in Andhra Pradesh's Tirupati Balaji Temple.

This system of prasad should be operational in all temples across the country until the government and the management of temples guarantee the purity of ghee used to prepare prasad, said Mahant Ravindra Puri, president of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, an important body of seers.

"Items like rock sugar, cardamom and dry fruits are traditionally offered as Bhog to Hindu deities. Their distribution as prasad will leave no room for adulteration," he said.

Expressing his disgust at the adulteration of 'prasadam' at the Tirupati Balaji Temple, Puri said it had hurt the sentiments of Hindus all over the world.

He suggested that Hindus feeling guilty about having eaten adulterated prasad unknowingly at Tirupati Balaji can purify their system by consuming Ganga jal or Gomutra (cow urine).

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad on Tuesday said mishri (sugar crystals), cardamom seeds and dry fruits offered traditionally to the Hindu deities as 'bhog' should be distributed among devotees as prasad at temples instead of prepared delicacies such as laddu to prevent adulteration.

The Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad on Tuesday said mishri (sugar crystals), cardamom seeds and dry fruits offered traditionally to the Hindu deities as 'bhog' should be distributed among devotees as prasad at temples instead of prepared delicacies such as laddu to prevent adulteration. The statement by the seers' body comes amid the outrage over alleged adulteration of the laddu prasad offered to devotees in Andhra Pradesh's Tirupati Balaji Temple. This system of prasad should be operational in all temples across the country until the government and the management of temples guarantee the purity of ghee used to prepare prasad, said Mahant Ravindra Puri, president of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, an important body of seers. "Items like rock sugar, cardamom and dry fruits are traditionally offered as Bhog to Hindu deities. Their distribution as prasad will leave no room for adulteration," he said. Expressing his disgust at the adulteration of 'prasadam' at the Tirupati Balaji Temple, Puri said it had hurt the sentiments of Hindus all over the world. He suggested that Hindus feeling guilty about having eaten adulterated prasad unknowingly at Tirupati Balaji can purify their system by consuming Ganga jal or Gomutra (cow urine). Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tirupati Laddu Row: Cardamom, mishri be offered as prasad instead of prepared delicacies to avoid adulteration

Sri Lanka’s newly-elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has promised to thoroughly investigate the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks carried out by the ISIS-backed suicide bombers that killed 270 people, including 45 foreign nationals and injured over 500.

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Dissanayake paid a visit to the Archbishop of Colombo, Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, following his election victory and assured him of taking steps “towards uncovering the truth” regarding the attacks that rocked hotels and churches in the country, the President’s Media Division (PMD) revealed on Tuesday.

In June, then Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe had appointed a Committee of Inquiry (CoI) to investigate the actions taken by Lankan intelligence services on the prior information received from their Indian counterparts regarding the Easter Sunday bombings.

Wicremesinghe’s decision followed the findings of the Final Report of the Commission of Inquiry, dated January 31, 2021, which highlighted that Indian intelligence agencies and other sources had provided advance warnings about the impending attacks.

“The committee’s mandate includes examining whether adequate actions and measures were taken by the State Intelligence Service (SIS), Chief of National Intelligence (CNI), and other relevant authorities based on the prior intelligence and evaluating the sufficiency of these measures,” the PMD said in a statement on June 12, this year.

The president had also given full powers to the committee headed by retired High Court judge A.N.J. De Alwis to question relevant officials and examine important documents to thoroughly investigate these matters.

A compact disk containing the Final Report of the Commission of Inquiry on the 2019 bomb attacks was provided to the committee, with a Senior Assistant Secretary to the President serving as the Secretary to the Committee of Inquiry.

Meanwhile, the Archbishop of Colombo acknowledged that the people have entrusted the new president with the significant responsibility of bringing about the necessary changes in the country, a task that may prove to be challenging.

The Cardinal also assured the Lankan President of his “full support and blessings” in this endeavour and urged him to prioritise the needs of the poor in his efforts.

On Tuesday, Dissanayake visited the Most Venerable Mahanayake Theros of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters to receive their blessings, following his visit to pay homage at the ‘Dalada Maligawa’ the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sri Lanka’s newly-elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has promised to thoroughly investigate the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks carried out by the ISIS-backed suicide bombers that killed 270 people, including 45 foreign nationals and injured over 500.

Sri Lanka’s newly-elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has promised to thoroughly investigate the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks carried out by the ISIS-backed suicide bombers that killed 270 people, including 45 foreign nationals and injured over 500. Dissanayake paid a visit to the Archbishop of Colombo, Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, following his election victory and assured him of taking steps “towards uncovering the truth” regarding the attacks that rocked hotels and churches in the country, the President’s Media Division (PMD) revealed on Tuesday. In June, then Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe had appointed a Committee of Inquiry (CoI) to investigate the actions taken by Lankan intelligence services on the prior information received from their Indian counterparts regarding the Easter Sunday bombings. Wicremesinghe’s decision followed the findings of the Final Report of the Commission of Inquiry, dated January 31, 2021, which highlighted that Indian intelligence agencies and other sources had provided advance warnings about the impending attacks. “The committee’s mandate includes examining whether adequate actions and measures were taken by the State Intelligence Service (SIS), Chief of National Intelligence (CNI), and other relevant authorities based on the prior intelligence and evaluating the sufficiency of these measures,” the PMD said in a statement on June 12, this year. The president had also given full powers to the committee headed by retired High Court judge A.N.J. De Alwis to question relevant officials and examine important documents to thoroughly investigate these matters. A compact disk containing the Final Report of the Commission of Inquiry on the 2019 bomb attacks was provided to the committee, with a Senior Assistant Secretary to the President serving as the Secretary to the Committee of Inquiry. Meanwhile, the Archbishop of Colombo acknowledged that the people have entrusted the new president with the significant responsibility of bringing about the necessary changes in the country, a task that may prove to be challenging. The Cardinal also assured the Lankan President of his “full support and blessings” in this endeavour and urged him to prioritise the needs of the poor in his efforts. On Tuesday, Dissanayake visited the Most Venerable Mahanayake Theros of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters to receive their blessings, following his visit to pay homage at the ‘Dalada Maligawa’ the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sri Lanka’s President Dissanayake promises thorough probe into 2019 Easter Sunday attacks

The Karnataka High Court quashed Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's petition on Tuesday and said the beneficiaries in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) case were not outsiders but the petitioner's (CM's) wife.

The Karnataka High Court quashed Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's petition on Tuesday and said the beneficiaries in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) case were not outsiders but the petitioner's (CM's) wife. The bench headed by Justice M Nagaprasanna passed the order upholding Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot's decision. The order of the High Court stated, "The facts narrated in the petition would undoubtedly require an investigation. In the teeth of the fact that the beneficiary of all these acts is not anybody outside, but the wife of the petitioner (CM Siddaramaiah)." The order stated, "The complaints were justified in registering the complaint or seeking approval at the hands of the Governor." "The approval under Section 17 A of the PC Act is mandatory in the fact situation. Section 17 A nowhere requires a police officer to seek approval in a private complaint registered under Section 200 of the Cr PC/223 of BNSS against a public servant for offences punishable under the provisions of the act. It is the duty of the complainant to seek such approval. The Governor in normal circumstances has to act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers as obtaining under Article 163 of the Constitution of India, but can take independent decision in exceptional circumstances and the present cases on such exception. No fault can be found in the action of the Governor exercising independent discretion to pass the impugned order," it said. "It would suffice if the reasons are recorded in the file of the decision-making authority, particularly of high office, and those reasons succinctly form part of the impugned order. A caveat, reasons must be in the file. Reasons for the first time cannot be brought before the constitutional Court, by way of objections. The Gubernatorial order nowhere suffers from want of application of mind. It is not a case of not even a semblance of application of mind, by the Governor, but abundance of application of mind. Grant of an opportunity of hearing prior to approval under Section 17A is not mandatory. If the authority chooses to do so, it is open to it," the court said. The court's order further mentioned, "The decision of the Governor of alleged hottest haste has not vitiated the order. The order is read to be restrictive to an approval under Section 17A of the Act and not an order granting Sanction 218 of BNSS. Before I say omega, I deem it appropriate to quote what BENJAMIN DISRAELI had to say: 'I repeat… that all power is a trust – that we are accountable for its exercise – that, from the people, and for the people, all springs, and all must exist'. For the praefatus reasons, the petition lacking in merit, would necessarily meet its dismissal, and is accordingly dismissed. Interim order of any kind subsisting today, shall stand dissolved. The applications, if any, stand disposed as unnecessary," the order underlined. Snehamayi Krishna, one of the petitioners in the case has submitted a caveat in the High Court Division Bench regarding the case and pleaded that no order should be passed in the MUDA case without hearing his arguments. The move has come ahead of CM Siddaramaiah's counsels preparing to file an appeal against the High Court single bench order. Now, that the verdict has gone against CM Siddaramaiah, the lower court will initiate legal proceedings such as filing of FIR against him in the MUDA case. This will lead to further pressure on the Chief Minister to resign. Sources confirmed that CM Siddaramaiah will now approach the Supreme Court to challenge the High Court order. The High Court on September 12 completed the hearing of arguments and counterarguments on the writ petition filed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. While Abhishek Manu Singhvi appeared for the CM, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented the Governor's office. Social activists Pradeep Kumar SP, T J Abraham and Snehamayi Krishna had filed petitions against CM Siddaramaiah in connection with the alleged MUDA land scam. They had claimed that Siddaramaiah had misused his office to create fraudulent documents over 3.17 acres of land near Mysuru city and got 14 sites allotted from the MUDA in the name of his wife. CM Siddaramaiah had refuted the allegations and maintained that the Congress government would fight politically and legally over the permission for prosecution against him in the case granted by the Governor. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Karnataka High Court clears way for CM Siddaramaiah’s prosecution in land scam case

Behind the smiles, as Joe Biden bids farewell to world leaders at the UN General Assembly this week, will be one goal -- shoring up his legacy against a possible White House comeback by Donald Trump.

Countries around the world are nervously watching November's US presidential election amid fears that a Trump victory over Kamala Harris would bring back his hardline, isolationist foreign policy.

And as Biden makes his final appearance at the UN General Assembly in New York, after dropping out of the race in July and endorsing his vice president as the Democratic nominee, the 81-year-old is not taking any chances.

Viewing his presidency as a return from the brink after Republican Trump's four years in the Oval Office, Biden will be trying to make sure his achievements are, in the words of one advisor, "irreversible.”

From his keynote address to the United Nations and a major climate speech on Tuesday, to talks on the wars in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan, Biden will be trying to lay the groundwork for US alliances and leadership that could outlast Trump.

"When President Biden came to office nearly four years ago, he pledged to restore American leadership on the world stage," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters travelling with him to New York.

Biden would now use his UN address to outline his "vision" for how that should continue -- and to "reaffirm how this approach has produced results for the American people and for the world," she added.

His UN swan song is part of a wider attempt to burnish his legacy at home and abroad after a one-term presidency cut short when a disastrous debate against Trump fuelled concerns about his age.&nbsp;

In an emotional moment Sunday, on the eve of the assembly, former president Bill Clinton presented Biden with the "Clinton Global Citizen Award" at a surprise ceremony in New York.

<h2>- 'Irreversible momentum' -</h2>

Biden held a cabinet meeting last week to urge a "sprint to the finish" to promote his policies -- and to give any reflected glory to Harris in an agonizingly close election.

His director of communications, Ben LaBolt, said in a memo to White House staff that the administration should "put a stake in the ground for the future" -- and, in a clear swipe at Trump, spoke of how Biden had restored "decency and dignity to the White House."&nbsp;

With an eye on the history books, Biden is seeking to put his stamp on policy across the board.

On international alliances -- where Trump threatened to drop Western allies if they did not spend more money on defence and held summits with Russia's Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong-un -- Biden hosted the leaders of Japan, India, and Australia for a farewell summit in his hometown on Saturday.

On climate -- where Trump pulled the United States out of the Paris accords -- Biden wanted to build an "irreversible momentum behind climate action," his National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi said Monday.

And on Ukraine -- where Trump praised Putin and has been distinctly cool in supporting Kyiv -- Biden is hosting a farewell meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House on Thursday to discuss more US support.&nbsp;

"The fact that we do have Gaza, the fact that we do have Ukraine and Sudan issues in our world, just underscores the need for that kind of cooperation," a senior US official told reporters, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Yet the greatest prize of all -- the Gaza ceasefire that Biden set his sights on before he leaves office in January 2025 -- seems further away than ever.

Instead, the situation in the Middle East is becoming ever more dangerous, with the UN General Assembly likely to be dominated by recent Israeli attacks on Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon, which have killed at least 500 people.

Biden "will address the Middle East, especially this very difficult year that we have all gone through" in his speech, the senior US official said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Behind the smiles, as Joe Biden bids farewell to world leaders at the UN General Assembly this week, will be one goal -- shoring up his legacy against a possible White House comeback by Donald Trump.

Behind the smiles, as Joe Biden bids farewell to world leaders at the UN General Assembly this week, will be one goal -- shoring up his legacy against a possible White House comeback by Donald Trump. Countries around the world are nervously watching November's US presidential election amid fears that a Trump victory over Kamala Harris would bring back his hardline, isolationist foreign policy. And as Biden makes his final appearance at the UN General Assembly in New York, after dropping out of the race in July and endorsing his vice president as the Democratic nominee, the 81-year-old is not taking any chances. Viewing his presidency as a return from the brink after Republican Trump's four years in the Oval Office, Biden will be trying to make sure his achievements are, in the words of one advisor, "irreversible.” From his keynote address to the United Nations and a major climate speech on Tuesday, to talks on the wars in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan, Biden will be trying to lay the groundwork for US alliances and leadership that could outlast Trump. "When President Biden came to office nearly four years ago, he pledged to restore American leadership on the world stage," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters travelling with him to New York. Biden would now use his UN address to outline his "vision" for how that should continue -- and to "reaffirm how this approach has produced results for the American people and for the world," she added. His UN swan song is part of a wider attempt to burnish his legacy at home and abroad after a one-term presidency cut short when a disastrous debate against Trump fuelled concerns about his age. In an emotional moment Sunday, on the eve of the assembly, former president Bill Clinton presented Biden with the "Clinton Global Citizen Award" at a surprise ceremony in New York. - 'Irreversible momentum' - Biden held a cabinet meeting last week to urge a "sprint to the finish" to promote his policies -- and to give any reflected glory to Harris in an agonizingly close election. His director of communications, Ben LaBolt, said in a memo to White House staff that the administration should "put a stake in the ground for the future" -- and, in a clear swipe at Trump, spoke of how Biden had restored "decency and dignity to the White House." With an eye on the history books, Biden is seeking to put his stamp on policy across the board. On international alliances -- where Trump threatened to drop Western allies if they did not spend more money on defence and held summits with Russia's Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong-un -- Biden hosted the leaders of Japan, India, and Australia for a farewell summit in his hometown on Saturday. On climate -- where Trump pulled the United States out of the Paris accords -- Biden wanted to build an "irreversible momentum behind climate action," his National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi said Monday. And on Ukraine -- where Trump praised Putin and has been distinctly cool in supporting Kyiv -- Biden is hosting a farewell meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House on Thursday to discuss more US support. "The fact that we do have Gaza, the fact that we do have Ukraine and Sudan issues in our world, just underscores the need for that kind of cooperation," a senior US official told reporters, speaking on condition of anonymity. Yet the greatest prize of all -- the Gaza ceasefire that Biden set his sights on before he leaves office in January 2025 -- seems further away than ever. Instead, the situation in the Middle East is becoming ever more dangerous, with the UN General Assembly likely to be dominated by recent Israeli attacks on Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon, which have killed at least 500 people. Biden "will address the Middle East, especially this very difficult year that we have all gone through" in his speech, the senior US official said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Joe Biden bids farewell to world leaders as he makes his final appearance at UN

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Roughly 60% of the foreign parts found in Russian weapons on the battlefield in Ukraine come via China, Ukraine's presidential adviser Vladyslav Vlasiuk told reporters on Tuesday.

"If you take all the usual types of weapons and count the foreign made components – about 60% would be coming from China. We have had lengthy discussions with some manufacturers about this," Vlasiuk said.

"The PRC (China) is the biggest problem I would say."

He said important parts used in surveillance, drones and missiles have also originated from the United States, the Netherlands, Japan and Switzerland among other western countries.

Despite strong trade ties between Russia and China, Beijing has repeatedly denied supplying weaponry to any party and says it is not involved in the Ukraine crisis.

Russia began a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and despite sweeping western sanctions, Moscow has been able to replenish its military machine with western microchips and semiconductors.

The European Union could do more to stop the flow of western products, Vlasiuk said, including taking measures against Russia's nuclear firm Rosatom.

"Rosatom...we believe it (Russia) has been using its networks to supply the Russian army," he said. European capitals have been reluctant to take any action owing to Russia's dominance in nuclear plant supplies.

The bloc could also target Russia's logistics, such as airports and seaports, and financial institutions that facilitate the sales, he said. Vlasiuk also pointed to a U.S. package of sanctions on IT, which he said has been very effective after coming into force earlier this month.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Roughly 60% of the foreign parts found in Russian weapons on the battlefield in Ukraine come via China, Ukraine's presidential adviser Vladyslav Vlasiuk told reporters on Tuesday.

Roughly 60% of the foreign parts found in Russian weapons on the battlefield in Ukraine come via China, Ukraine's presidential adviser Vladyslav Vlasiuk told reporters on Tuesday. "If you take all the usual types of weapons and count the foreign made components – about 60% would be coming from China. We have had lengthy discussions with some manufacturers about this," Vlasiuk said. "The PRC (China) is the biggest problem I would say." He said important parts used in surveillance, drones and missiles have also originated from the United States, the Netherlands, Japan and Switzerland among other western countries. Despite strong trade ties between Russia and China, Beijing has repeatedly denied supplying weaponry to any party and says it is not involved in the Ukraine crisis. Russia began a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and despite sweeping western sanctions, Moscow has been able to replenish its military machine with western microchips and semiconductors. The European Union could do more to stop the flow of western products, Vlasiuk said, including taking measures against Russia's nuclear firm Rosatom. "Rosatom...we believe it (Russia) has been using its networks to supply the Russian army," he said. European capitals have been reluctant to take any action owing to Russia's dominance in nuclear plant supplies. The bloc could also target Russia's logistics, such as airports and seaports, and financial institutions that facilitate the sales, he said. Vlasiuk also pointed to a U.S. package of sanctions on IT, which he said has been very effective after coming into force earlier this month. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine reveals China’s role in providing foreign technology for Russian weapons

Qatar Airways said Tuesday it had suspended flights to Beirut until Wednesday as tensions escalated between Israel and Hezbollah in the deadliest bombardment in nearly a year of cross-border clashes.

"Due to the ongoing situation in Lebanon, Qatar Airways has temporarily suspended flights to and from Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport until September 25," the Qatari national carrier said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The safety of our passengers remains our highest priority," it added.

Israeli air strikes on Lebanon killed at least 492 people on Monday, including 35 children, Lebanon's health ministry said.

The cross-border exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah began last October after Hamas and other Palestinian militants launched an unprecedented attack on Israel.

Last week, Qatar Airways announced a ban on pagers and walkie-talkies on its Beirut flights after communications device explosions, blamed on Israel, killed 37 people and wounded thousands over two days.

Germany's Lufthansa, Air France and Delta Air Lines of the United States have also suspended flights to Beirut in recent days with some carriers' services to Israel and Iran also affected.&nbsp; 
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Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Qatar Airways said Tuesday it had suspended flights to Beirut until Wednesday as tensions escalated between Israel and Hezbollah in the deadliest bombardment in nearly a year of cross-border clashes.

Qatar Airways said Tuesday it had suspended flights to Beirut until Wednesday as tensions escalated between Israel and Hezbollah in the deadliest bombardment in nearly a year of cross-border clashes. "Due to the ongoing situation in Lebanon, Qatar Airways has temporarily suspended flights to and from Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport until September 25," the Qatari national carrier said in a statement. "The safety of our passengers remains our highest priority," it added. Israeli air strikes on Lebanon killed at least 492 people on Monday, including 35 children, Lebanon's health ministry said. The cross-border exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah began last October after Hamas and other Palestinian militants launched an unprecedented attack on Israel. Last week, Qatar Airways announced a ban on pagers and walkie-talkies on its Beirut flights after communications device explosions, blamed on Israel, killed 37 people and wounded thousands over two days. Germany's Lufthansa, Air France and Delta Air Lines of the United States have also suspended flights to Beirut in recent days with some carriers' services to Israel and Iran also affected. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israel-Hezbollah conflict: Qatar Airways suspends Beirut flights until Sept 26

The International Monetary Fund is ready to discuss its controversial $2.9 billion bailout programme for Sri Lanka with the country's new government, a spokesman said.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake, sworn in Monday as the country's first leftist president, has said he wants to renegotiate the deal, which has brought unpopular austerity measures.

"We look forward to working together with President Dissanayake... towards building on the hard-won gains that have helped put Sri Lanka on a path to economic recovery," an IMF spokesperson in Washington said Monday.

The lender of last resort noted that the South Asian nation, which defaulted on its debt in April 2022, had stabilised since the bailout.

"We will discuss the timing of the third review of the IMF-supported programme with the new administration as soon as practicable," the spokesperson said referring to the periodic review of the bailout.

A senior aide of the new president told AFP a day after the election that his People's Liberation Front party will "not tear up" the IMF deal.

"Our plan is to engage with the IMF and introduce certain amendments," Bimal Ratnayake said.&nbsp;

"We will not tear up the IMF programme. It is a binding document, but there is a provision to renegotiate."

Sri Lanka's tiny stock market fell sharply within the first few minutes of trading on Monday, when Dissanayake took office, but recovered quickly and ended the day with the main All Share Price index 1.19 percent higher.

Dissanayake has pledged to reduce income taxes that were doubled by his predecessor Ranil Wickremesinghe, and also slash sales taxes on food and medicines.

"We think we can get those reductions into the programme and continue with the four-year bailout programme," Ratnayake said.

Dissanayake's rivals had raised fears that his Marxist party would scrap the IMF programme and push the country back into an economic crisis similar to the chaos of 2022.

A foreign exchange crisis led to shortages of essentials sparking street protests which eventually forced then leader Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country and resign.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The International Monetary Fund is ready to discuss its controversial $2.9 billion bailout programme for Sri Lanka with the country's new government, a spokesman said.

The International Monetary Fund is ready to discuss its controversial $2.9 billion bailout programme for Sri Lanka with the country's new government, a spokesman said. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, sworn in Monday as the country's first leftist president, has said he wants to renegotiate the deal, which has brought unpopular austerity measures. "We look forward to working together with President Dissanayake... towards building on the hard-won gains that have helped put Sri Lanka on a path to economic recovery," an IMF spokesperson in Washington said Monday. The lender of last resort noted that the South Asian nation, which defaulted on its debt in April 2022, had stabilised since the bailout. "We will discuss the timing of the third review of the IMF-supported programme with the new administration as soon as practicable," the spokesperson said referring to the periodic review of the bailout. A senior aide of the new president told AFP a day after the election that his People's Liberation Front party will "not tear up" the IMF deal. "Our plan is to engage with the IMF and introduce certain amendments," Bimal Ratnayake said. "We will not tear up the IMF programme. It is a binding document, but there is a provision to renegotiate." Sri Lanka's tiny stock market fell sharply within the first few minutes of trading on Monday, when Dissanayake took office, but recovered quickly and ended the day with the main All Share Price index 1.19 percent higher. Dissanayake has pledged to reduce income taxes that were doubled by his predecessor Ranil Wickremesinghe, and also slash sales taxes on food and medicines. "We think we can get those reductions into the programme and continue with the four-year bailout programme," Ratnayake said. Dissanayake's rivals had raised fears that his Marxist party would scrap the IMF programme and push the country back into an economic crisis similar to the chaos of 2022. A foreign exchange crisis led to shortages of essentials sparking street protests which eventually forced then leader Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country and resign. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ready to talk about bailout programme with Sri Lanka's new leftist government, says IMF

Australia all-rounder Annabel Sutherland has been bought by Delhi Capitals for Rs 2 crore ($240,000) in the ongoing Women's Premier League 2024 auction here in Mumbai on Saturday.

Capitals and Mumbai Indians went head to head for the Australia all-rounder. She crossed the Rs 1-crore mark quite comfortably. After much fierce bidding competition between teams for Australia all-rounder, Sutherland was roped in by Delhi Capitals for Rs 2 crore.

Sutherland turned her form around during the Women's Ashes, scoring a Test century and a critical half-century in Australia's lone ODI victory. She thrived in the 2023 WBBL, hitting 288 runs (the most for the Melbourne Stars) and taking 23 wickets (tied for third-most for the season). In Meg Lanning's absence, she has led Australia in the last three matches.

In a turn of events, West Indies all-rounder Deandra Dottin, with a base price of Rs 50 lakhs, remained unsold.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-2023-training-under-rahul-dravid-felt-great-says-rinku-singh-ahead-of-durban-t20i-667888">SA vs IND 2023: Training under Rahul Dravid felt great, says Rinku Singh ahead of Durban T20I</a>

Indian all-rounder Devika Vaidya remained unsold. Meghna was the first Indian player picked up at this year's WPL auction.

Sri Lanka batter Chamari Athapaththu remained unsold. She led Sri Lanka to a historic T20I series win in England and had a smashing WBBL season where she was Player of the Tournament.

Meanwhile, Meghana Singh was sold to Gujarat Giants for 30 lakh at a base price by the Gujarat Giants.

Earlier, Phoebe Litchfield made for a stirring bidding bar as she was roped in by Gujarat Giants for Rs 1 crore in the second season of the Women's Premier League (WPL) auction. Australia's Phoebe Litchfield was the first player to come up for bidding at a base price of INR 30 lakh, she earned a first bid from Gujarat Giants. After a bit of a tussle between UP Warriorz and Gujarat, the auction price zoomed past the 60-lakh mark in no time. Gujarat Giants eventually got her for Rs 1 crore.

Australia all-rounder Annabel Sutherland has been bought by Delhi Capitals for Rs 2 crore ($240,000) in the ongoing Women's Premier League 2024 auction here in Mumbai on Saturday.

Australia all-rounder Annabel Sutherland has been bought by Delhi Capitals for Rs 2 crore ($240,000) in the ongoing Women's Premier League 2024 auction here in Mumbai on Saturday. Capitals and Mumbai Indians went head to head for the Australia all-rounder. She crossed the Rs 1-crore mark quite comfortably. After much fierce bidding competition between teams for Australia all-rounder, Sutherland was roped in by Delhi Capitals for Rs 2 crore. Sutherland turned her form around during the Women's Ashes, scoring a Test century and a critical half-century in Australia's lone ODI victory. She thrived in the 2023 WBBL, hitting 288 runs (the most for the Melbourne Stars) and taking 23 wickets (tied for third-most for the season). In Meg Lanning's absence, she has led Australia in the last three matches. In a turn of events, West Indies all-rounder Deandra Dottin, with a base price of Rs 50 lakhs, remained unsold. ALSO READ | SA vs IND 2023: Training under Rahul Dravid felt great, says Rinku Singh ahead of Durban T20I Indian all-rounder Devika Vaidya remained unsold. Meghna was the first Indian player picked up at this year's WPL auction. Sri Lanka batter Chamari Athapaththu remained unsold. She led Sri Lanka to a historic T20I series win in England and had a smashing WBBL season where she was Player of the Tournament. Meanwhile, Meghana Singh was sold to Gujarat Giants for 30 lakh at a base price by the Gujarat Giants. Earlier, Phoebe Litchfield made for a stirring bidding bar as she was roped in by Gujarat Giants for Rs 1 crore in the second season of the Women's Premier League (WPL) auction. Australia's Phoebe Litchfield was the first player to come up for bidding at a base price of INR 30 lakh, she earned a first bid from Gujarat Giants. After a bit of a tussle between UP Warriorz and Gujarat, the auction price zoomed past the 60-lakh mark in no time. Gujarat Giants eventually got her for Rs 1 crore.

WPL 2024 Auction: Australia all-rounder Annabel Sutherland sold to Delhi Capitals for $240,000

A Canberra court has dismissed charges against Australian rugby league internationals Latrell Mitchell and Jack Wighton who were arrested for fighting with each other at a nightclub in February. Police had charged both players with fighting in a public place, while charging Wighton with ignoring an exclusion order and his cousin Mitchell with affray and resisting police.

Wighton was celebrating his 30th birthday when police removed him from the nightclub and ordered him to leave the city area. The case was dismissed on Wednesday, a day after a senior police officer admitted evidence he had given in court about Wighton's behaviour was inaccurate.

The police officer told the court on Monday that Wighton had "pushed and shoved" a man at the nightclub and appeared aggressive but on Tuesday conceded his evidence did not match CCTV and police body-camera footage. "Sorry Jack, if that's what happened. I thought I saw something different," Australian media quoted the police officer as saying to Wighton in court on Tuesday.

Australia Capital Territory (ACT) Magistrates Court judge Jane Campbell dismissed the case, triggering criticism of police and prosecutors. The arrests were prominently reported by national broadcasters, with video showing four police officers pinning Aboriginal Australian Mitchell face-down to the ground.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spaniard-carlos-alcaraz-shines-in-mexico-city-as-fans-get-glimpse-of-world-class-tennis-664949">Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz shines in Mexico City as fans get glimpse of world class tennis</a>

Mitchell was heard screaming "my shoulders" and bystanders were heard telling the police the pair had done nothing wrong. "I hope everyone knows and understands the seriousness of what's gone on," South Sydney fullback Mitchell told reporters outside the court.

"Through the last 10 months it's been very hard for myself - not only myself but my family and what they've had to read and endure. A traumatic experience that I've had of Canberra." Mitchell's team mate Wighton thanked his former club Canberra Raiders and his family for their support. Raiders CEO Don Furner called the case "an extraordinary waste" of the court's time and taxpayers' money, while Mitchell's lawyer called for a review.

ACT Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury described the case as "obviously really concerning". ACT Policing said they would work with prosecutors to review the proceedings.

A Canberra court has dismissed charges against Australian rugby league internationals Latrell Mitchell and Jack Wighton who were arrested for fighting with each other at a nightclub in February.

A Canberra court has dismissed charges against Australian rugby league internationals Latrell Mitchell and Jack Wighton who were arrested for fighting with each other at a nightclub in February. Police had charged both players with fighting in a public place, while charging Wighton with ignoring an exclusion order and his cousin Mitchell with affray and resisting police. Wighton was celebrating his 30th birthday when police removed him from the nightclub and ordered him to leave the city area. The case was dismissed on Wednesday, a day after a senior police officer admitted evidence he had given in court about Wighton's behaviour was inaccurate. The police officer told the court on Monday that Wighton had "pushed and shoved" a man at the nightclub and appeared aggressive but on Tuesday conceded his evidence did not match CCTV and police body-camera footage. "Sorry Jack, if that's what happened. I thought I saw something different," Australian media quoted the police officer as saying to Wighton in court on Tuesday. Australia Capital Territory (ACT) Magistrates Court judge Jane Campbell dismissed the case, triggering criticism of police and prosecutors. The arrests were prominently reported by national broadcasters, with video showing four police officers pinning Aboriginal Australian Mitchell face-down to the ground. Also Read: Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz shines in Mexico City as fans get glimpse of world class tennis Mitchell was heard screaming "my shoulders" and bystanders were heard telling the police the pair had done nothing wrong. "I hope everyone knows and understands the seriousness of what's gone on," South Sydney fullback Mitchell told reporters outside the court. "Through the last 10 months it's been very hard for myself - not only myself but my family and what they've had to read and endure. A traumatic experience that I've had of Canberra." Mitchell's team mate Wighton thanked his former club Canberra Raiders and his family for their support. Raiders CEO Don Furner called the case "an extraordinary waste" of the court's time and taxpayers' money, while Mitchell's lawyer called for a review. ACT Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury described the case as "obviously really concerning". ACT Policing said they would work with prosecutors to review the proceedings.

Rugby: Canberra court dismisses charges against Latrell Mitchell, Jack Wighton

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