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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Wednesday that India does not identify itself as a middle power but rather as a power in the middle. He pointed out that India is the world’s most populous country with a GDP of around four trillion dollars and significant growth potential, and hence the term ‘middle power’ does not reflect India’s position and ambitions adequately.&nbsp;He also quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his definition of a “middle power” as “the countries who have the power to empower”.&nbsp;“More than a middle power, in a way, we are powers in the middle. What would really define a middle power? To use the Prime Minister’s words, the countries who have the power to empower,” EAM Jaishankar said at a Bloomberg event in New Delhi.“Would India be a middle power? It’s not a comfortable description because if you are the most populous country in the world, you have a GDP of $4 trillion, give or take, and you have a lot of growth ahead of you, staring you in the face, then the middle power somehow seems to be limiting itself by that definition,” he added.&nbsp;The EAM further said that middle powers will now define their own interests, formulate independent policies and reach agreements with one another. “This would enable middle powers to play a more active role in shaping the emerging international order,” he said.&nbsp;“The middle powers would now each apply their own mind, stake out their own interests, figure out their own policies, and then reach arrangements with each other,” Jaishankar said.&nbsp;EAM also highlighted the growing importance of economic interdependence and the risks posed by the weaponisation of strategic resources in the changing global order.&nbsp;<h2>‘World of choke points’</h2>&nbsp;Describing the current international environment as a “world of choke points”, Jaishankar said countries could use their control over critical resources and financial mechanisms to exert pressure on others.“It’s also today a world of choke points, and you know the tendency to weaponise. We tend to think of rare earths as an example, but the fact is even finance is a choke point. I mean, sanctions are a choke point. I mean, people are weaponising their grip on finance or on the US dollar,” Jaishankar said.&nbsp;He said global competition would increasingly revolve around what different countries could offer and the agreements they could negotiate to advance their respective interests.&nbsp;“The point, I think, is we are moving to a world where the competition is going to be, to some degree, who has what to bring to the table, and then deals among them saying, you know, you do this, I do this. Let’s develop this together. Let’s trade this for each other,” he said in a discussion with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.&nbsp;Jaishankar also cautioned against viewing the ongoing changes in the global order pessimistically. He added that the current transition should not be seen as a shift from order to disorder but as the evolution of a different kind of order.

Describing the current international environment as a “world of choke points”, EAM S Jaishankar said countries could use their control over critical resources and finances to exert pressure on others. He also cautioned against viewing the ongoing changes in the global order pessimistically.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Wednesday that India does not identify itself as a middle power but rather as a power in the middle. He pointed out that India is the world’s most populous country with a GDP of around four trillion dollars and significant growth potential, and hence the term ‘middle power’ does not reflect India’s position and ambitions adequately. He also quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his definition of a “middle power” as “the countries who have the power to empower”. “More than a middle power, in a way, we are powers in the middle. What would really define a middle power? To use the Prime Minister’s words, the countries who have the power to empower,” EAM Jaishankar said at a Bloomberg event in New Delhi. “Would India be a middle power? It’s not a comfortable description because if you are the most populous country in the world, you have a GDP of $4 trillion, give or take, and you have a lot of growth ahead of you, staring you in the face, then the middle power somehow seems to be limiting itself by that definition,” he added. The EAM further said that middle powers will now define their own interests, formulate independent policies and reach agreements with one another. “This would enable middle powers to play a more active role in shaping the emerging international order,” he said. “The middle powers would now each apply their own mind, stake out their own interests, figure out their own policies, and then reach arrangements with each other,” Jaishankar said. EAM also highlighted the growing importance of economic interdependence and the risks posed by the weaponisation of strategic resources in the changing global order. ‘World of choke points’ Describing the current international environment as a “world of choke points”, Jaishankar said countries could use their control over critical resources and financial mechanisms to exert pressure on others. “It’s also today a world of choke points, and you know the tendency to weaponise. We tend to think of rare earths as an example, but the fact is even finance is a choke point. I mean, sanctions are a choke point. I mean, people are weaponising their grip on finance or on the US dollar,” Jaishankar said. He said global competition would increasingly revolve around what different countries could offer and the agreements they could negotiate to advance their respective interests. “The point, I think, is we are moving to a world where the competition is going to be, to some degree, who has what to bring to the table, and then deals among them saying, you know, you do this, I do this. Let’s develop this together. Let’s trade this for each other,” he said in a discussion with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Jaishankar also cautioned against viewing the ongoing changes in the global order pessimistically. He added that the current transition should not be seen as a shift from order to disorder but as the evolution of a different kind of order.

Describing the current international environment as a “world of choke points”, EAM S Jaishankar said countries could use their control over critical resources and finances to exert pressure on others. He also cautioned against viewing the ongoing changes in the global order pessimistically.

India not a ‘middle power’ but a power in the middle, says EAM Jaishankar, cites PM Modi’s definition

With the US midterm elections approaching, candidates are talking about inflation, jobs, healthcare, and the cost of living. Immigration remains part of the debate, particularly for Republicans. Yet one policy with direct consequences for Indian professionals and US employers, the $100,000 H-1B visa fee, has received far less attention in the broader campaign conversation.President Donald Trump’s administration has presented the fee as a way to protect American workers from cheaper foreign labour. For Indian professionals, technology companies and families planning careers in the United States, however, it has raised questions about the cost and accessibility of one of the country's main skilled-worker visa routes.<h2>A policy with consequences beyond Silicon Valley</h2>The Trump administration introduced the $100,000 payment requirement in September 2025 for certain new H-1B petitions. It argued that employers had used the programme to replace American workers with lower-paid foreign employees. In September 2026, the White House renewed the measure, extending its intended duration through September 2027.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-how-grocery-bills-cost-of-living-are-turning-the-nov-3-election-into-a-test-of-trump-1791022350055">US Midterms 2026: How grocery bills, cost of living are turning the Nov 3 election into a test of Trump</a>The fee was a dramatic departure from the previous cost structure. Reuters reported that H-1B-related fees had typically totalled around $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the circumstances. The new payment requirement therefore raised concerns about whether some employers would reconsider hiring workers from abroad.India has a particularly large stake in the debate. According to the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, citing US Citizenship and Immigration Services data, people of Indian origin accounted for 71 per cent of new H-1B petitions in fiscal year 2024. In Carnegie's 2026 Indian American Attitudes Survey, about two-thirds of respondents opposed the $100,000 fee.<h2>Why the issue struggles to break through</h2>The first reason is the campaign's broader economic focus. In an analysis published on October 8, The Washington Post reviewed more than 8,000 advertisements in competitive congressional and gubernatorial races. Nearly three in five mentioned the economy, with affordability, housing, groceries and other costs featuring prominently. Immigration remained a major Republican advertising issue, but it was no longer as prominent as in the 2024 election. Democrats, in comparison, devoted relatively little advertising to immigration.For Republicans, mentioning the issue comes with its own political complication. The fee is part of Trump's effort to restrict what his administration describes as abuse of the H-1B programme. Challenging it could alienate voters who believe foreign workers compete with Americans for jobs. On the other hand, defending it without qualification, meanwhile, risks concerns among technology employers and skilled workers who depend on international recruitment.For Democrats, opposing the fee offers a way to challenge a Trump administration policy and appeal to workers, employers and immigrant communities. But a broad defence of immigration can be politically difficult in an environment where campaigns are concentrating on affordability and where candidates in competitive districts must respond to local concerns.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-mamdani-factor-how-nyc-s-mayor-could-influence-the-november-2026-midterm-elections-1791622472019">US midterm elections: Why Zohran Mamdani's influence could become a headache for Democrats and Republicans</a><h2>Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Latest court order</h2>There is another reason the issue may be difficult to campaign on: the fee's legal status has changed. On September 30, a federal judge in California blocked the requirement in a separate case brought by a coalition of unions, employers and nonprofit organisations. In Global Nurse Force v. Trump, U.S. District Judge Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr., in the Northern District of California, wrote, “The Agency Policies are VACATED and REMANDED to Agency Defendants. Agency Defendants, and all persons acting under their direction, are enjoined from enforcing or implementing the Agency Policies made pursuant to or in implementation of Proclamation No. 10973 and its extension in Proclamation No. 11069, until notice-and-comment rulemaking under the APA (Administrative Procedure Act) and regulatory flexibility analyses under the RFA have been conducted.”The decision followed an earlier ruling in June by a federal judge in Boston, which was upheld when an appeals court declined to pause it in July. The legal challenges concern the administration's authority and its failure to follow required procedures.<h2>What happens after November?</h2>The November 3 midterms will determine who controls Congress, but the result will not automatically settle the H-1B dispute. The immediate outcome will depend heavily on the courts and on the administration's next legal steps. Three broad possibilities remain.- First, the legal challenge continues. If the court orders remain in force, the administration cannot simply treat the fee as enforceable because it has renewed the proclamation. Further proceedings will determine the limits of its authority and whether the policy can survive judicial review.- Second, Congress takes up the question. Lawmakers could debate legislation governing H-1B fees, employer obligations and protections for American workers.- Third, the dispute moves into a different policy framework. Reuters reported that the Department of Homeland Security had moved in August to adopt a permanent fee of about $103,000. Notably, the agency's proposal could raise separate legal questions from those challenging Trump's original requirement.

The $100,000 H-1B fee has major implications for Indian professionals, but it has yet to become a defining issue in the US midterm campaign. Why are neither Republicans nor Democrats making it a 2026 US Midterm issue?

With the US midterm elections approaching, candidates are talking about inflation, jobs, healthcare, and the cost of living. Immigration remains part of the debate, particularly for Republicans. Yet one policy with direct consequences for Indian professionals and US employers, the $100,000 H-1B visa fee, has received far less attention in the broader campaign conversation. President Donald Trump’s administration has presented the fee as a way to protect American workers from cheaper foreign labour. For Indian professionals, technology companies and families planning careers in the United States, however, it has raised questions about the cost and accessibility of one of the country's main skilled-worker visa routes. A policy with consequences beyond Silicon Valley The Trump administration introduced the $100,000 payment requirement in September 2025 for certain new H-1B petitions. It argued that employers had used the programme to replace American workers with lower-paid foreign employees. In September 2026, the White House renewed the measure, extending its intended duration through September 2027. Also read | US Midterms 2026: How grocery bills, cost of living are turning the Nov 3 election into a test of Trump The fee was a dramatic departure from the previous cost structure. Reuters reported that H-1B-related fees had typically totalled around $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the circumstances. The new payment requirement therefore raised concerns about whether some employers would reconsider hiring workers from abroad. India has a particularly large stake in the debate. According to the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, citing US Citizenship and Immigration Services data, people of Indian origin accounted for 71 per cent of new H-1B petitions in fiscal year 2024. In Carnegie's 2026 Indian American Attitudes Survey, about two-thirds of respondents opposed the $100,000 fee. Why the issue struggles to break through The first reason is the campaign's broader economic focus. In an analysis published on October 8, The Washington Post reviewed more than 8,000 advertisements in competitive congressional and gubernatorial races. Nearly three in five mentioned the economy, with affordability, housing, groceries and other costs featuring prominently. Immigration remained a major Republican advertising issue, but it was no longer as prominent as in the 2024 election. Democrats, in comparison, devoted relatively little advertising to immigration. For Republicans, mentioning the issue comes with its own political complication. The fee is part of Trump's effort to restrict what his administration describes as abuse of the H-1B programme. Challenging it could alienate voters who believe foreign workers compete with Americans for jobs. On the other hand, defending it without qualification, meanwhile, risks concerns among technology employers and skilled workers who depend on international recruitment. For Democrats, opposing the fee offers a way to challenge a Trump administration policy and appeal to workers, employers and immigrant communities. But a broad defence of immigration can be politically difficult in an environment where campaigns are concentrating on affordability and where candidates in competitive districts must respond to local concerns. Also read | US midterm elections: Why Zohran Mamdani's influence could become a headache for Democrats and Republicans Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Latest court order There is another reason the issue may be difficult to campaign on: the fee's legal status has changed. On September 30, a federal judge in California blocked the requirement in a separate case brought by a coalition of unions, employers and nonprofit organisations. In Global Nurse Force v. Trump, U.S. District Judge Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr., in the Northern District of California, wrote, “The Agency Policies are VACATED and REMANDED to Agency Defendants. Agency Defendants, and all persons acting under their direction, are enjoined from enforcing or implementing the Agency Policies made pursuant to or in implementation of Proclamation No. 10973 and its extension in Proclamation No. 11069, until notice-and-comment rulemaking under the APA (Administrative Procedure Act) and regulatory flexibility analyses under the RFA have been conducted.” The decision followed an earlier ruling in June by a federal judge in Boston, which was upheld when an appeals court declined to pause it in July. The legal challenges concern the administration's authority and its failure to follow required procedures. What happens after November? The November 3 midterms will determine who controls Congress, but the result will not automatically settle the H-1B dispute. The immediate outcome will depend heavily on the courts and on the administration's next legal steps. Three broad possibilities remain. - First, the legal challenge continues. If the court orders remain in force, the administration cannot simply treat the fee as enforceable because it has renewed the proclamation. Further proceedings will determine the limits of its authority and whether the policy can survive judicial review. - Second, Congress takes up the question. Lawmakers could debate legislation governing H-1B fees, employer obligations and protections for American workers. - Third, the dispute moves into a different policy framework. Reuters reported that the Department of Homeland Security had moved in August to adopt a permanent fee of about $103,000. Notably, the agency's proposal could raise separate legal questions from those challenging Trump's original requirement.

The $100,000 H-1B fee has major implications for Indian professionals, but it has yet to become a defining issue in the US midterm campaign. Why are neither Republicans nor Democrats making it a 2026 US Midterm issue?

Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Why neither Republicans nor Democrats want to make it a 2026 US Midterm issue

While the US remains the top destination for Indian students wanting to pursue Undergraduate-level courses abroad, there has been a 10 per cent decline in Indian student applications to the country between 2024-26, SAT entrance exam data shows. "Three years ago, about 80 to 85percent of Indian students' SAT scores were heading to the United States. Now in 2026, that 80 to 85percent is closer to 70 to 75 per cent. So within three years, a 10percent drop, which to us is significant," Mr Rushi Sheth, Vice President, College Board, highlighted in a conversation with this author. College Board has been conducting the SAT exam for 100years.When this author asked Rushi about the reasons he assigned for this US-specific decline, he cited "changing geopolitical conditions." Different countries create or remove policies, which send different signals. As a result of this, families take time to reflect and re-assess, adjust accordingly, he reasoned.Interestingly, the 2024-26 period broadly coincides with the ongoing Trump Presidency 2.0. Donald Trump and his officials and supporters have repeatedly made hostile speeches and blatantly racist public remarks against India and its people, while the policies of the Trump administration have further cemented this animosity towards India. It is widely acknowledged that hateful and racist content targeting Indians has been spreading rampantly on controversial US tech mogul Elon Musk's social media platform X(formerly Twitter). Several accounts linked with Elon Musk and Trump's MAGA political movement are known to be creating and spreading such content targeting Indians.Queried if such a decline in Indian student applications to the US was unprecedented, College Board's VP told this author that similar trends were seen during the 2008-10 economic slowdown and the COVID-19 pandemic, both of which were major global disruptions and crises.Asked if he saw this US-aversion among a section of Indian students as a temporary or a long-term trend, Sheth replied that he was not a politician and that he did not have a qualified opinion on future policies or geopolitical conditions. "About one generation ago, I imagine most Indian students thought of the SAT as a one-way ticket to the United States. And today, that is no longer true. The SAT is more of a global passport, and I don't think that will ever reverse," he added.<h2>Amid decline in US applications, where are Indian students heading?</h2>Referring to the 2024-26 period, Rushi mentioned that the number of Indian students taking the SAT had risen during the period. While there has been a drop in applications going to the US, Indian students are applying in larger numbers to Universities in the UK, European Union, Canada, Singapore, among other destinations, he added."The one country that's really surprising us with how fast it's growing is Australia... For Indian student applications, Australia has now replaced Canada as the number two destination after the United States. Within the Group of Eight, which are some of the most selective and highly prestigious universities in Australia, six of eight universities give unconditional offers to students based on their SAT scores. That's among the reasons driving this spike in applications heading for Australia," shared Rushi.Further, he expressed surprise to see Japan as a trending destination among Indian students. He explained that the Japanese government is welcoming talented young men and young women from India to attend university, to learn, to help build jobs that are in high demand and to enter the workforce in Japan. We are seeing more SAT scores heading to Japan than we'd ever seen historically, he said.When asked about the growth of the SAT exam globally, he said that they are seeing huge uptake in China, India, Vietnam, Egypt, and Uzbekistan.<h2>SAT scores are accepted in a few Indian Universities</h2>According to data from College Board, there has been a rise in the number of Indian students taking the SAT, and a small number of those students are sending their applications to Indian universities that are accepting SAT score-based admission. "There are now 70 universities in India which are accepting the SAT score. Flame and Ashoka are among the Indian universities accepting SAT scores", Rushi added.Asked specifically if the $111 fee for taking the SAT, plus the associated coaching charges, is affordable for a vast majority of Indian students who wish to apply to Indian universities that accept SAT, Rushi said that SAT has created some partnerships in India to give fee waivers for the SAT registration for students who can demonstrate financial need. "Generally, students who can demonstrate family income of less than 8 lakh rupees are eligible for a reduced fee waiver or a full fee waiver. Students can also access free SAT practice tests online, based on the results of which they can decide their approach towards taking the SAT," he said.Further, he mentioned that SAT has more than 200 Test centres in India presently, compared to barely 50 metrocity-centric centres about two decades ago.&nbsp;<h2>In the era of all-pervasive AI, is SAT using AI to assess students?</h2>According to Vice President Rushi Sheth, College Board, like any company, is experimenting with AI, but SAT still very much has human design at the centre. "Being a multiple-choice test, machines can score a multiple-choice test, not only for our SAT, but just about any assessment company. With AI, we are still looking into what it can do in terms of evaluation or insights. And these are very exciting technologies. There's nothing that we have even come close to perfecting. And so we will not deploy anything to a student unless it has evidence-based research that supports the value. But we do think, hopefully, AI will allow us to deliver more value to students in terms of insights, career readiness mechanisms, or just new and novel ways of testing. So it's early for us, as I imagine it is for most people, but we're excited to experiment," he elaborated.&nbsp;

According to data from College Board, there has been a rise in the number of Indian students taking the SAT, and a small number of those students are sending their applications to Indian universities that are accepting SAT score-based admission.

While the US remains the top destination for Indian students wanting to pursue Undergraduate-level courses abroad, there has been a 10 per cent decline in Indian student applications to the country between 2024-26, SAT entrance exam data shows. "Three years ago, about 80 to 85percent of Indian students' SAT scores were heading to the United States. Now in 2026, that 80 to 85percent is closer to 70 to 75 per cent. So within three years, a 10percent drop, which to us is significant," Mr Rushi Sheth, Vice President, College Board, highlighted in a conversation with this author. College Board has been conducting the SAT exam for 100years. When this author asked Rushi about the reasons he assigned for this US-specific decline, he cited "changing geopolitical conditions." Different countries create or remove policies, which send different signals. As a result of this, families take time to reflect and re-assess, adjust accordingly, he reasoned. Interestingly, the 2024-26 period broadly coincides with the ongoing Trump Presidency 2.0. Donald Trump and his officials and supporters have repeatedly made hostile speeches and blatantly racist public remarks against India and its people, while the policies of the Trump administration have further cemented this animosity towards India. It is widely acknowledged that hateful and racist content targeting Indians has been spreading rampantly on controversial US tech mogul Elon Musk's social media platform X(formerly Twitter). Several accounts linked with Elon Musk and Trump's MAGA political movement are known to be creating and spreading such content targeting Indians. Queried if such a decline in Indian student applications to the US was unprecedented, College Board's VP told this author that similar trends were seen during the 2008-10 economic slowdown and the COVID-19 pandemic, both of which were major global disruptions and crises. Asked if he saw this US-aversion among a section of Indian students as a temporary or a long-term trend, Sheth replied that he was not a politician and that he did not have a qualified opinion on future policies or geopolitical conditions. "About one generation ago, I imagine most Indian students thought of the SAT as a one-way ticket to the United States. And today, that is no longer true. The SAT is more of a global passport, and I don't think that will ever reverse," he added. Amid decline in US applications, where are Indian students heading? Referring to the 2024-26 period, Rushi mentioned that the number of Indian students taking the SAT had risen during the period. While there has been a drop in applications going to the US, Indian students are applying in larger numbers to Universities in the UK, European Union, Canada, Singapore, among other destinations, he added. "The one country that's really surprising us with how fast it's growing is Australia... For Indian student applications, Australia has now replaced Canada as the number two destination after the United States. Within the Group of Eight, which are some of the most selective and highly prestigious universities in Australia, six of eight universities give unconditional offers to students based on their SAT scores. That's among the reasons driving this spike in applications heading for Australia," shared Rushi. Further, he expressed surprise to see Japan as a trending destination among Indian students. He explained that the Japanese government is welcoming talented young men and young women from India to attend university, to learn, to help build jobs that are in high demand and to enter the workforce in Japan. We are seeing more SAT scores heading to Japan than we'd ever seen historically, he said. When asked about the growth of the SAT exam globally, he said that they are seeing huge uptake in China, India, Vietnam, Egypt, and Uzbekistan. SAT scores are accepted in a few Indian Universities According to data from College Board, there has been a rise in the number of Indian students taking the SAT, and a small number of those students are sending their applications to Indian universities that are accepting SAT score-based admission. "There are now 70 universities in India which are accepting the SAT score. Flame and Ashoka are among the Indian universities accepting SAT scores", Rushi added. Asked specifically if the $111 fee for taking the SAT, plus the associated coaching charges, is affordable for a vast majority of Indian students who wish to apply to Indian universities that accept SAT, Rushi said that SAT has created some partnerships in India to give fee waivers for the SAT registration for students who can demonstrate financial need. "Generally, students who can demonstrate family income of less than 8 lakh rupees are eligible for a reduced fee waiver or a full fee waiver. Students can also access free SAT practice tests online, based on the results of which they can decide their approach towards taking the SAT," he said. Further, he mentioned that SAT has more than 200 Test centres in India presently, compared to barely 50 metrocity-centric centres about two decades ago. In the era of all-pervasive AI, is SAT using AI to assess students? According to Vice President Rushi Sheth, College Board, like any company, is experimenting with AI, but SAT still very much has human design at the centre. "Being a multiple-choice test, machines can score a multiple-choice test, not only for our SAT, but just about any assessment company. With AI, we are still looking into what it can do in terms of evaluation or insights. And these are very exciting technologies. There's nothing that we have even come close to perfecting. And so we will not deploy anything to a student unless it has evidence-based research that supports the value. But we do think, hopefully, AI will allow us to deliver more value to students in terms of insights, career readiness mechanisms, or just new and novel ways of testing. So it's early for us, as I imagine it is for most people, but we're excited to experiment," he elaborated.

According to data from College Board, there has been a rise in the number of Indian students taking the SAT, and a small number of those students are sending their applications to Indian universities that are accepting SAT score-based admission.

Trump's racism? 10% drop in Indian applications to US Universities in 3 yrs

Around 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a single year, according to a study by Unicef, ECPAT International and INTERPOL. The findings come as a senior United Nations official warns that artificial intelligence, conflict and climate-related emergencies are exposing children to new and overlapping risks.Najat Maalla M’jid, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Violence Against Children, presented her final report to the UN General Assembly on Monday (Oct 12), urging governments to strengthen protections for children facing multiple crises. “Almost 45 million children are displaced because of conflict, but also because of natural disasters, because of the climate crisis,” she told journalists at UN Headquarters in New York.M’jid also warned that rapid advances in technology, while creating opportunities for learning and communication, were opening new avenues for abuse. She pointed to AI-enabled sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, deepfakes and the recruitment of children into criminal activities.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/imf-world-economic-outlook-10-economies-to-watch-for-growth-in-fy27-and-fy28-where-does-india-stand-1791868386918">IMF World Economic Outlook: 10 economies to watch for growth in FY27 and FY28 - Where does India stand?</a><h2>Most children knew their alleged abusers</h2>The study, Disrupting Harm in Pakistan, published in September 2026, found that nearly one in 16 internet-using children aged 12 to 17 had experienced at least one form of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse over 12 months.The reported abuse included unwanted sexual images or conversations, demands for intimate photographs, the non-consensual sharing of children's images, and sexual threats or blackmail.The findings also challenge the assumption that strangers primarily committed online abuse. Shockingly, in 85 per cent of the incidents reported by children, the perpetrator was someone they already knew. Social media was the most commonly reported digital setting, accounting for 44 per cent of cases.Fear and stigma can make it difficult for children to seek help, it noted. Some worry that their families will blame them, humiliate them or impose restrictions on their internet access. Boys may face additional barriers because of social expectations around masculinity and reluctance to discuss sexual abuse.According to UNICEF, more than half of the children who experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse did not tell anyone. None of the children surveyed reported their experiences through formal channels such as helplines, social workers or the police.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whatsapp-parental-controls-for-teens-what-parents-can-see-and-change-is-it-available-in-india-and-more-all-you-need-to-know-meta-ai-1790834115201">WhatsApp parental controls for teens: Can parents read messages? What they can see and change. All you need to know</a><h2>Poverty and displacement deepen risks</h2>Online abuse is part of a broader child-protection crisis shaped by poverty, displacement and interruptions to essential services, M’jid warned. Food insecurity and rising prices can leave families struggling to protect children, while conflict and natural disasters can disrupt schooling and weaken support networks.Climate-related emergencies have also caused widespread disruption across South Asia. Unicef estimates that weather-related disasters displaced 15.6 million children in the region between 2016 and 2022. In Bangladesh, climate-related events disrupted schooling for 35 million children in 2024. &nbsp;

Around 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a year, a study has found. The UN is warning that AI, poverty, conflict and climate emergencies are creating overlapping risks for children.


Around 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a single year, according to a study by Unicef, ECPAT International and INTERPOL. The findings come as a senior United Nations official warns that artificial intelligence, conflict and climate-related emergencies are exposing children to new and overlapping risks. Najat Maalla M’jid, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Violence Against Children, presented her final report to the UN General Assembly on Monday (Oct 12), urging governments to strengthen protections for children facing multiple crises. “Almost 45 million children are displaced because of conflict, but also because of natural disasters, because of the climate crisis,” she told journalists at UN Headquarters in New York. M’jid also warned that rapid advances in technology, while creating opportunities for learning and communication, were opening new avenues for abuse. She pointed to AI-enabled sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, deepfakes and the recruitment of children into criminal activities. Also read | IMF World Economic Outlook: 10 economies to watch for growth in FY27 and FY28 - Where does India stand? Most children knew their alleged abusers The study, Disrupting Harm in Pakistan, published in September 2026, found that nearly one in 16 internet-using children aged 12 to 17 had experienced at least one form of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse over 12 months. The reported abuse included unwanted sexual images or conversations, demands for intimate photographs, the non-consensual sharing of children's images, and sexual threats or blackmail. The findings also challenge the assumption that strangers primarily committed online abuse. Shockingly, in 85 per cent of the incidents reported by children, the perpetrator was someone they already knew. Social media was the most commonly reported digital setting, accounting for 44 per cent of cases. Fear and stigma can make it difficult for children to seek help, it noted. Some worry that their families will blame them, humiliate them or impose restrictions on their internet access. Boys may face additional barriers because of social expectations around masculinity and reluctance to discuss sexual abuse. According to UNICEF, more than half of the children who experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse did not tell anyone. None of the children surveyed reported their experiences through formal channels such as helplines, social workers or the police. Also read | WhatsApp parental controls for teens: Can parents read messages? What they can see and change. All you need to know Poverty and displacement deepen risks Online abuse is part of a broader child-protection crisis shaped by poverty, displacement and interruptions to essential services, M’jid warned. Food insecurity and rising prices can leave families struggling to protect children, while conflict and natural disasters can disrupt schooling and weaken support networks. Climate-related emergencies have also caused widespread disruption across South Asia. Unicef estimates that weather-related disasters displaced 15.6 million children in the region between 2016 and 2022. In Bangladesh, climate-related events disrupted schooling for 35 million children in 2024.

Around 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a year, a study has found. The UN is warning that AI, poverty, conflict and climate emergencies are creating overlapping risks for children.

UN study exposes Pakistan's child abuse crisis; 1.5 million children experienced online sexual abuse in a year

New Zealand’s first resident defence advisor in New Delhi has described the rapidly expanding India–New Zealand military relationship as moving beyond novelty, with both sides planning a first bilateral naval exercise next year and deeper involvement in India’s Tarang Shakti air exercise in 2028.&nbsp;Commodore Andy Dowling said the relationship has been revived after New Zealand commanded Combined Task Force 150 and India served as deputy commander. Subsequent high-level visits, including by New Zealand’s prime minister in March last year and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to New Zealand in July, produced a Defence Cooperation Agreement. A strategic dialogue has since produced a joint plan covering the next two to three years.&nbsp;“I’m now here as the first resident, so we are taking this relationship very seriously,” Dowling said. “The aim is to remove the novelty so that we see each other as business-as-usual partners who are happy and comfortable working together.”New Zealand’s participation in the recent Tarang Shakti multinational air exercise, hosted by India, offered a practical test. Dowling praised the Indian Air Force’s organisation of a complex event involving multiple nations and aircraft types, saying it generated genuine training value in a geographical setting unfamiliar to New Zealand crews.&nbsp;“That was good. That was something we want to do,” he said. “When it comes back again in a couple of years’ time, then we’d like to be more involved.” He expressed hope that New Zealand aircraft would take part in a more substantial way in 2028.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-politicians-mistakenly-use-indian-russian-warship-images-for-navy-s-birthday-posts-1791955000426">US politicians mistakenly use Indian, Russian warship images for Navy's birthday posts</a>&nbsp;Maritime cooperation is expected to remain the central pillar. Under the maritime cooperation agreement signed in July, the two navies are already discussing the shape of a bilateral exercise next year. Dowling said the aim was not merely to hold an activity for its own sake but to produce relevant training for both forces. “We’re both maritime nations by heart; we’re both trading nations. We depend on free and open oceans,” he noted.&nbsp;On defence industry, Dowling highlighted the rapid expansion of India’s production and export base, citing systems such as the BrahMos missile supplied to the Philippines. With the India–New Zealand free-trade agreement entering into force on 20 October, he said the framework would make defence-industry partnerships easier to operationalise. “It offers opportunities for us to partner together and not be transactional,” he said. “The FTA for us will be really good. The trick is now to operationalise it and to use it.”&nbsp;Dowling also pointed to a longer shared military history, from Gallipoli and the two world wars to the wartime service of a New Zealand ship that later became the Indian Navy’s flagship.

Under the maritime cooperation agreement signed in July, the two navies are already discussing the shape of a bilateral exercise next year. Dowling said the aim was not merely to hold an activity for its own sake but to produce relevant training for both forces.

New Zealand’s first resident defence advisor in New Delhi has described the rapidly expanding India–New Zealand military relationship as moving beyond novelty, with both sides planning a first bilateral naval exercise next year and deeper involvement in India’s Tarang Shakti air exercise in 2028. Commodore Andy Dowling said the relationship has been revived after New Zealand commanded Combined Task Force 150 and India served as deputy commander. Subsequent high-level visits, including by New Zealand’s prime minister in March last year and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to New Zealand in July, produced a Defence Cooperation Agreement. A strategic dialogue has since produced a joint plan covering the next two to three years. “I’m now here as the first resident, so we are taking this relationship very seriously,” Dowling said. “The aim is to remove the novelty so that we see each other as business-as-usual partners who are happy and comfortable working together.” New Zealand’s participation in the recent Tarang Shakti multinational air exercise, hosted by India, offered a practical test. Dowling praised the Indian Air Force’s organisation of a complex event involving multiple nations and aircraft types, saying it generated genuine training value in a geographical setting unfamiliar to New Zealand crews. “That was good. That was something we want to do,” he said. “When it comes back again in a couple of years’ time, then we’d like to be more involved.” He expressed hope that New Zealand aircraft would take part in a more substantial way in 2028. Also read: US politicians mistakenly use Indian, Russian warship images for Navy's birthday posts Maritime cooperation is expected to remain the central pillar. Under the maritime cooperation agreement signed in July, the two navies are already discussing the shape of a bilateral exercise next year. Dowling said the aim was not merely to hold an activity for its own sake but to produce relevant training for both forces. “We’re both maritime nations by heart; we’re both trading nations. We depend on free and open oceans,” he noted. On defence industry, Dowling highlighted the rapid expansion of India’s production and export base, citing systems such as the BrahMos missile supplied to the Philippines. With the India–New Zealand free-trade agreement entering into force on 20 October, he said the framework would make defence-industry partnerships easier to operationalise. “It offers opportunities for us to partner together and not be transactional,” he said. “The FTA for us will be really good. The trick is now to operationalise it and to use it.” Dowling also pointed to a longer shared military history, from Gallipoli and the two world wars to the wartime service of a New Zealand ship that later became the Indian Navy’s flagship.

Under the maritime cooperation agreement signed in July, the two navies are already discussing the shape of a bilateral exercise next year. Dowling said the aim was not merely to hold an activity for its own sake but to produce relevant training for both forces.

New Zealand aiming to firm up defence ties with India, says Defence Advisor Commodore Andy Dowling

Katie Zacharia, the new White House Press Secretary who replaced Karoline Leavitt, made headlines on Tuesday (Oct 13) as she made her briefing room debut. A conservative commentator and former State Department employee, Zacharia had a disastrous debut that was marked by remarkably few questions from journalists and loads of praise for US President Donald Trump. Notably, the briefing lasted only 14 minutes and included questions from only three conservative outlets before she deferred all questions to Trump himself.A key moment from the debut briefing was when the 'visibly nervous' Zacharia slipped up, referring to "my president" as "excuse me, my husband," triggering ripples of laughter. She also raised eyebrows when she said that she had passed her bar exam when she moved to China.The disastrous debut has already prompted a Polymarket bet about when Zacharia would be "out as press secretary".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/my-president-i-mean-my-husband-trump-s-new-press-secretary-katie-zacharia-s-first-briefing-goes-off-the-rails-in-14-minutes-1791915462032">‘My president, I mean my husband’: Trump's new press secretary Katie Zacharia's first briefing goes off the rails in 14 minutes</a><h2>Bets placed on how long Zacharia will last as press secretary</h2>Prediction market Polymarket wagers have given Zacharia a mere 29 per cent chance of lasting the year.Her performance has triggered backlash online, with netizens wondering if she would even last as long as ex-White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci, who held the position for a record-short stint of 10 days in 2017 during Trump’s first term. For now, the odds of her being ousted by the end of the month (October) are low at just eight per cent.<h2>Is Zacharia a "joke hire"?</h2>Talking to The Independent, a former Trump admin official dubbed Zacharia's debut a "train wreck". The former Trump official, as per the report, previously described her as a "joke hire" who would likely be "gone in six months".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-how-grocery-bills-cost-of-living-are-turning-the-nov-3-election-into-a-test-of-trump-1791022350055">US Midterms 2026: How grocery bills, cost of living are turning the Nov 3 election into a test of Trump</a><h2>Katie Zacharia- Donald Trump: Previous links</h2>A 41-year-old devotee of Trump's hard-right MAGA movement, Zacharia, is known to make frequent appearances on conservative outlets Fox News and Newsmax. According to her LinkedIn profile, she previously worked as a legal adviser for Fix California, a conservative group founded by Trump's former Venezuela envoy Richard Grenell. The group aims to address what it described as "the left's stranglehold" on state politics.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261014/image-1791963567398.png"></figure>She has also previously served as an adviser to Trump Media and Technology, the group behind the president's Truth Social platform.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261014/image-1791963609730.png"></figure>Zacharia also had a brief stint as a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security before departing in March. She interned at the White House during President George W. Bush's administration.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261014/image-1791963669525.png"></figure><h2>Zacahria's Chinese law degree</h2>The new press secretary's debut also saw her fielding questions about her law degree and bar accreditation. Talking to the press alongside Trump before the POTUS left for Alaska, Zacharia was asked where she passed the bar exam: "China", she answered.“Where did she pass the bar exam? Which state?” a reporter asked Trump, who then turned to Zacharia to ask her, "Which state?”Her reply has since become a point of contention. “When I moved to China,” Zacharia responded.The White House has sought to clarify the remark and has clarified that Zacharia passed the bar exam and had moved to China with her husband after graduating due to his job at a US private equity firm. She, meanwhile, worked on international transaction law, reported The Hill.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Katie Zacharia's first White House briefing was over in just 14 minutes, but not before a China-related bar exam remark raised eyebrows. Her past links to Trump Media and conservative groups are now drawing fresh attention.

Katie Zacharia, the new White House Press Secretary who replaced Karoline Leavitt, made headlines on Tuesday (Oct 13) as she made her briefing room debut. A conservative commentator and former State Department employee, Zacharia had a disastrous debut that was marked by remarkably few questions from journalists and loads of praise for US President Donald Trump. Notably, the briefing lasted only 14 minutes and included questions from only three conservative outlets before she deferred all questions to Trump himself. A key moment from the debut briefing was when the 'visibly nervous' Zacharia slipped up, referring to "my president" as "excuse me, my husband," triggering ripples of laughter. She also raised eyebrows when she said that she had passed her bar exam when she moved to China. The disastrous debut has already prompted a Polymarket bet about when Zacharia would be "out as press secretary". Also read | ‘My president, I mean my husband’: Trump's new press secretary Katie Zacharia's first briefing goes off the rails in 14 minutes Bets placed on how long Zacharia will last as press secretary Prediction market Polymarket wagers have given Zacharia a mere 29 per cent chance of lasting the year. Her performance has triggered backlash online, with netizens wondering if she would even last as long as ex-White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci, who held the position for a record-short stint of 10 days in 2017 during Trump’s first term. For now, the odds of her being ousted by the end of the month (October) are low at just eight per cent. Is Zacharia a "joke hire"? Talking to The Independent, a former Trump admin official dubbed Zacharia's debut a "train wreck". The former Trump official, as per the report, previously described her as a "joke hire" who would likely be "gone in six months". Also read | US Midterms 2026: How grocery bills, cost of living are turning the Nov 3 election into a test of Trump Katie Zacharia- Donald Trump: Previous links A 41-year-old devotee of Trump's hard-right MAGA movement, Zacharia, is known to make frequent appearances on conservative outlets Fox News and Newsmax. According to her LinkedIn profile, she previously worked as a legal adviser for Fix California, a conservative group founded by Trump's former Venezuela envoy Richard Grenell. The group aims to address what it described as "the left's stranglehold" on state politics. She has also previously served as an adviser to Trump Media and Technology, the group behind the president's Truth Social platform. Zacharia also had a brief stint as a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security before departing in March. She interned at the White House during President George W. Bush's administration. Zacahria's Chinese law degree The new press secretary's debut also saw her fielding questions about her law degree and bar accreditation. Talking to the press alongside Trump before the POTUS left for Alaska, Zacharia was asked where she passed the bar exam: "China", she answered. “Where did she pass the bar exam? Which state?” a reporter asked Trump, who then turned to Zacharia to ask her, "Which state?” Her reply has since become a point of contention. “When I moved to China,” Zacharia responded. The White House has sought to clarify the remark and has clarified that Zacharia passed the bar exam and had moved to China with her husband after graduating due to his job at a US private equity firm. She, meanwhile, worked on international transaction law, reported The Hill.

Katie Zacharia's first White House briefing was over in just 14 minutes, but not before a China-related bar exam remark raised eyebrows. Her past links to Trump Media and conservative groups are now drawing fresh attention.

Trump's new press secretary under fire after China bar exam remark; Polymarket bets on how long Katie Zacharia will last

Recent polls suggest that many Americans have doubts about the fairness and integrity of the November 3 midterm elections. A NewsNation–Decision Desk HQ poll among likely voters from October 5 to 9, pointed to concerns about election administration and vote-counting. &nbsp;Other surveys highlighted concerns about fairness, honesty, and accuracy. A nationwide survey by the University of California, San Diego, found that fewer than half of respondents expected the elections to be free and fair. Here is a roundup<h2>What polls and surveys say about Americans' distrust of their election</h2>In the survey of 5,016 American adults, conducted on September 1 -9 by UC San Diego’s Center for Transparent and Trusted Elections, 49 per cent - &nbsp;or less than half of respondents - expected the elections to be free and fair. Another 23 per cent did not, while 28 per cent said they did not know what to expect. The survey also found that 55 per cent trusted that ballots would be counted accurately. This was down from 77 per cent confidence expressed after the 2024 election and 60 per cent in January 2026.The Pew Research Center’s survey of 3,554 US adults, done on July 6 - 12, found that 55 per cent were confident the midterms would be conducted fairly and accurately. This confidence level was lower than the 61 per cent recorded ahead of the 2024 elections and the 64 per cent before the 2022 midterms.Gallup’s 2026 survey found that 49 per cent of Americans were confident in the honesty of US elections, while 51 per cent were not.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-brings-iran-war-into-us-midterm-election-debate-1791773417784/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-brings-iran-war-into-us-midterm-election-debate-1791773417784/embed</a><h2>Why are voters losing trust in US midterms?</h2>Concerns about mail-in ballots are a key issue in the NewsNation–Decision Desk HQ poll. While 27 per cent of respondents cited the handling of mail-in ballots as the main concern, 14 per cent believe Republicans would manipulate the count, and 13 per cent think Democrats would do so.Decision Desk HQ chief elections analyst Geoffrey Skelley said Republicans expressed greater doubts, reflecting concerns associated with the 2020 presidential election and President Donald Trump’s repeated claims of electoral fraud. Trump lost that election to Democrat Joe Biden, but till date, he claims he had won.&nbsp;Such claims, amplified by Trump aides and surrogates, shaped debate about election integrity, despite courts and election officials finding no evidence of fraud sufficient to overturn the results.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-democratic-house-india-trump-modi-relations-1791131467809">US midterms: Could a Democratic House be good for India?</a><h2>Both Republicans and Democrats distrust the election</h2>Supporters of both parties have doubts about the election administration, voter access, and the potential politicisation of election oversight.The UC San Diego survey identified artificial intelligence, foreign interference and cyberattacks as sources of anxiety. It also found sharp partisan divisions over mail-in voting, and federal immigration enforcement.&nbsp;At least 36 new voting laws took effect in Republican-controlled states in 2026, including measures tightening identification requirements and restricting aspects of mail voting. While supporters of the measures argue it protects election integrity, critics feel voting would become more difficult for eligible citizens.An Associated Press-NORC survey from September found that trust in federal government information about elections and politics is down from 22 per cent in 2024 to 13 per cent in 2026.&nbsp;These surveys and polls are a reflection of what voters think about the process, transparency, impartiality, and reliability of information from public institutions.

A new survey found that less than half of Americans expect the upcoming 2026 US midterms to be free and fair. Other polls have revealed declining trust in vote counting, mail-in ballots, election security, and government certifications. Can the oldest democracy ‘fix’ its elections?

Recent polls suggest that many Americans have doubts about the fairness and integrity of the November 3 midterm elections. A NewsNation–Decision Desk HQ poll among likely voters from October 5 to 9, pointed to concerns about election administration and vote-counting. Other surveys highlighted concerns about fairness, honesty, and accuracy. A nationwide survey by the University of California, San Diego, found that fewer than half of respondents expected the elections to be free and fair. Here is a roundup What polls and surveys say about Americans' distrust of their election In the survey of 5,016 American adults, conducted on September 1 -9 by UC San Diego’s Center for Transparent and Trusted Elections, 49 per cent - or less than half of respondents - expected the elections to be free and fair. Another 23 per cent did not, while 28 per cent said they did not know what to expect. The survey also found that 55 per cent trusted that ballots would be counted accurately. This was down from 77 per cent confidence expressed after the 2024 election and 60 per cent in January 2026. The Pew Research Center’s survey of 3,554 US adults, done on July 6 - 12, found that 55 per cent were confident the midterms would be conducted fairly and accurately. This confidence level was lower than the 61 per cent recorded ahead of the 2024 elections and the 64 per cent before the 2022 midterms. Gallup’s 2026 survey found that 49 per cent of Americans were confident in the honesty of US elections, while 51 per cent were not. https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-brings-iran-war-into-us-midterm-election-debate-1791773417784/embed Why are voters losing trust in US midterms? Concerns about mail-in ballots are a key issue in the NewsNation–Decision Desk HQ poll. While 27 per cent of respondents cited the handling of mail-in ballots as the main concern, 14 per cent believe Republicans would manipulate the count, and 13 per cent think Democrats would do so. Decision Desk HQ chief elections analyst Geoffrey Skelley said Republicans expressed greater doubts, reflecting concerns associated with the 2020 presidential election and President Donald Trump’s repeated claims of electoral fraud. Trump lost that election to Democrat Joe Biden, but till date, he claims he had won. Such claims, amplified by Trump aides and surrogates, shaped debate about election integrity, despite courts and election officials finding no evidence of fraud sufficient to overturn the results. Also read: US midterms: Could a Democratic House be good for India? Both Republicans and Democrats distrust the election Supporters of both parties have doubts about the election administration, voter access, and the potential politicisation of election oversight. The UC San Diego survey identified artificial intelligence, foreign interference and cyberattacks as sources of anxiety. It also found sharp partisan divisions over mail-in voting, and federal immigration enforcement. At least 36 new voting laws took effect in Republican-controlled states in 2026, including measures tightening identification requirements and restricting aspects of mail voting. While supporters of the measures argue it protects election integrity, critics feel voting would become more difficult for eligible citizens. An Associated Press-NORC survey from September found that trust in federal government information about elections and politics is down from 22 per cent in 2024 to 13 per cent in 2026. These surveys and polls are a reflection of what voters think about the process, transparency, impartiality, and reliability of information from public institutions.

A new survey found that less than half of Americans expect the upcoming 2026 US midterms to be free and fair. Other polls have revealed declining trust in vote counting, mail-in ballots, election security, and government certifications. Can the oldest democracy ‘fix’ its elections?

US Midterms 2026 in shadow of public distrust: Less than half in a poll believe elections will be free and fair. Other surveys say...

America’s Navy turned 251 on Tuesday (Oct 13), and some US politicians, eager to join the birthday celebrations, committed a big blunder. The wishes were meant for US Navy fleet, but the ships in the posts that several prominent Republican lawmakers and state governors shared were from India and Russia instead. While the US Navy Day is observed annually on October 27, a separate commemoration from the official US Navy Birthday is celebrated on October 13.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-president-zi-blunder-goes-viral-as-trump-campaign-mocked-over-tiktok-typo-during-china-visit-1778892424559">'President Zi' blunder goes viral as Trump campaign mocked over TikTok typo during China visit</a>&nbsp;The incident came to limelight when Dave Brown, a journalist with The Wall Street Journal pointed out on X that Georgia Governor Brian P Kemp, a Republican, had shared Indian warships in his post wishing US Navy. He wrote on X, "From the early days of our nation's founding, the Navy has stood watch over our country and defended freedom across the seas. On its birthday, we salute the sailors whose service, sacrifice, and courage carry that legacy forward." The image shared by Kemp had three warships sailing in line astern, emblazoned with the words "Happy Birthday US Navy" and the seal of the state of Georgia. Brown reshared the post and wrote on X: "Those are Indian warships". The three warships were Indian Navy frigates, INS Godavari, INS Brahmaputra and INS Beas. &nbsp;A Community Note on Kemp's X post also identified the vessels as Kolkata-class guided-missile destroyers.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HUhRB80WYAAVBkc?format=png&amp;name=small" alt="Image"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viral-gaffe-trump-mixes-up-india-and-brazil-in-social-post-attacking-us-voting-speed-1791181445745">Viral gaffe: Trump mixes up India and Brazil in social post attacking us voting speed</a>&nbsp;Jeffrey J Dinise, an official with the US Border Patrol, used an image of a Russian Kirov-class battlecruiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261014/image-1791963309557.png"></figure>&nbsp;US Congressman Tim Moore of North Carolina, meanwhile, used the same image of the three Indian Navy frigates shared by Kemp.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2026-10/huhaszzwcaavjgq.png?VersionId=01EuFcfUXACQcVG34gY2dY7hwDeQ0s.r"></figure>&nbsp;Ohio State Representative Mike Dovilla, a Republican and, a former US Navy lieutenant commander, was seen wishing the US Navy a happy birthday with an image of warships that Brown identified as belonging to the Russian Navy.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HUhRuVBXsAExefX?format=png&amp;name=small" alt="Image"></figure>&nbsp; Democratic politician and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, whose city is home to one of the US Navy's largest naval bases, used an image of the Soviet-era cruiser Mikhail Kutuzov, which is now a museum ship in Novorossiysk, Russia.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2026-10/huiqgx3wkaa4tzm.png?VersionId=W6UchGExdkTt_a1o9M0SwpAw8Q2ZDtIa"></figure>&nbsp; Additionally, the social media account of the Freedom Caucus Foundation, a Republican-aligned think tank, also joined in, using an image of the Indian Navy frigate INS Trikand.&nbsp;<img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2026-10/huiw4ukwmaa8xbi.jpg?VersionId=HltVRzbYqxpASZcouqyy1oUe3beSNq6p&amp;size=750:*"> &nbsp;

American politicians and public figures marked the US Navy's 251st birthday by sharing images of Indian and Russian warships. The posts included Indian Navy frigates and Russian vessels, with a journalist pointing out the errors on social media.

America’s Navy turned 251 on Tuesday (Oct 13), and some US politicians, eager to join the birthday celebrations, committed a big blunder. The wishes were meant for US Navy fleet, but the ships in the posts that several prominent Republican lawmakers and state governors shared were from India and Russia instead. While the US Navy Day is observed annually on October 27, a separate commemoration from the official US Navy Birthday is celebrated on October 13. Also Read: 'President Zi' blunder goes viral as Trump campaign mocked over TikTok typo during China visit The incident came to limelight when Dave Brown, a journalist with The Wall Street Journal pointed out on X that Georgia Governor Brian P Kemp, a Republican, had shared Indian warships in his post wishing US Navy. He wrote on X, "From the early days of our nation's founding, the Navy has stood watch over our country and defended freedom across the seas. On its birthday, we salute the sailors whose service, sacrifice, and courage carry that legacy forward." The image shared by Kemp had three warships sailing in line astern, emblazoned with the words "Happy Birthday US Navy" and the seal of the state of Georgia. Brown reshared the post and wrote on X: "Those are Indian warships". The three warships were Indian Navy frigates, INS Godavari, INS Brahmaputra and INS Beas. A Community Note on Kemp's X post also identified the vessels as Kolkata-class guided-missile destroyers. Also Read: Viral gaffe: Trump mixes up India and Brazil in social post attacking us voting speed Jeffrey J Dinise, an official with the US Border Patrol, used an image of a Russian Kirov-class battlecruiser. US Congressman Tim Moore of North Carolina, meanwhile, used the same image of the three Indian Navy frigates shared by Kemp. Ohio State Representative Mike Dovilla, a Republican and, a former US Navy lieutenant commander, was seen wishing the US Navy a happy birthday with an image of warships that Brown identified as belonging to the Russian Navy. Democratic politician and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, whose city is home to one of the US Navy's largest naval bases, used an image of the Soviet-era cruiser Mikhail Kutuzov, which is now a museum ship in Novorossiysk, Russia. Additionally, the social media account of the Freedom Caucus Foundation, a Republican-aligned think tank, also joined in, using an image of the Indian Navy frigate INS Trikand.

American politicians and public figures marked the US Navy's 251st birthday by sharing images of Indian and Russian warships. The posts included Indian Navy frigates and Russian vessels, with a journalist pointing out the errors on social media.

US politicians mistakenly use Indian, Russian warship images for Navy's birthday posts

Iran is reportedly strengthening its military capabilities and defenses around sensitive locations, such as nuclear sites, anticipating renewed US attacks after the November midterm elections. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the Islamic establishment has been telling regional officials that Tehran will retaliate to any new strikes across the Middle East.&nbsp;The WSJ report stated that Iran is preparing to respond with a wider retaliation in response to any fresh US strikes. The US military has continued enforcing a blockade around the Strait of Hormuz. A commercial cargo ship was recently stopped from attempting to run the blockade.<h2>Iran preparing its population for war</h2>The report further claims that the regime is holding rallies to prepare its citizens for war. Paramilitary forces are reading war stories to young children. Training in firing defensive missiles is being advertised. Iran is almost sure of a wider war once the midterm elections in US are over, the report states. US President Donald Trump has said that it would not attack Iran before the midterm election. However, at a campaign rally, he issued a warning, saying, "Wait till you see what we do to Iran."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-strikes-yemen-oil-sites-as-houthi-missiles-target-riyadh-and-aramco-1791927799375">Saudi Arabia strikes Yemen oil sites as Houthi missiles target Riyadh; 'limited fire' breaks out at Aramco</a>&nbsp;Iran is also trying to keep oil prices high ahead of US midterms. Two senior Iranian officials told Reuters that deploying new tactics to target ships sailing through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has imposed blockade on the Strait after the US started a war with Iran on February 28.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-claim-riyadh-airport-attacks-aramco-strikes-issue-fresh-warning-to-airlines-travellers-and-workers-1791737446536">Houthis claim Riyadh airport attacks, Aramco strikes; issue fresh warning to airlines, travellers and workers</a>&nbsp;The passage is used to carry approximately 20 million barrels per day of crude oil, condensate, and refined petroleum products. The blockade inflicted a huge blow to these operations, thus decreasing supply and increasing prices.<h2>Riyadh airport attacked</h2> Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi rebels have launched a series of ballistic missiles and drones targeting Saudi Arabia. Riyadh has been under attack since last week, with energy facilities and airports being struck. Several people died in an attack on the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. A pilot working for Saudi carrier Saudia was among those dead.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-killed-in-attack-on-riyadh-airport-part-of-airport-fell-on-mohammad-yousuf-during-attack-1791789653517/embed&nbsp;The Riyadh airport was shut down and the closure has been extended until Saturday. On Monday, the US Federal Aviation Administration urged airlines to exercise caution when flying above or near Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition launched targeted airstrikes against Houthi-held oil and military sites across Sanaa and western Yemen. &nbsp;

Iran is preparing for a wider war and strengthening its nuclear sites in preparation of possible fresh attack by the United States attacks after the midterm elections. A report said the country is also preparing its population for a war and soldiers are reading war stories to young children.

Iran is reportedly strengthening its military capabilities and defenses around sensitive locations, such as nuclear sites, anticipating renewed US attacks after the November midterm elections. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the Islamic establishment has been telling regional officials that Tehran will retaliate to any new strikes across the Middle East. The WSJ report stated that Iran is preparing to respond with a wider retaliation in response to any fresh US strikes. The US military has continued enforcing a blockade around the Strait of Hormuz. A commercial cargo ship was recently stopped from attempting to run the blockade. Iran preparing its population for war The report further claims that the regime is holding rallies to prepare its citizens for war. Paramilitary forces are reading war stories to young children. Training in firing defensive missiles is being advertised. Iran is almost sure of a wider war once the midterm elections in US are over, the report states. US President Donald Trump has said that it would not attack Iran before the midterm election. However, at a campaign rally, he issued a warning, saying, "Wait till you see what we do to Iran." Also Read: Saudi Arabia strikes Yemen oil sites as Houthi missiles target Riyadh; 'limited fire' breaks out at Aramco Iran is also trying to keep oil prices high ahead of US midterms. Two senior Iranian officials told Reuters that deploying new tactics to target ships sailing through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has imposed blockade on the Strait after the US started a war with Iran on February 28. Also Read: Houthis claim Riyadh airport attacks, Aramco strikes; issue fresh warning to airlines, travellers and workers The passage is used to carry approximately 20 million barrels per day of crude oil, condensate, and refined petroleum products. The blockade inflicted a huge blow to these operations, thus decreasing supply and increasing prices. Riyadh airport attacked Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi rebels have launched a series of ballistic missiles and drones targeting Saudi Arabia. Riyadh has been under attack since last week, with energy facilities and airports being struck. Several people died in an attack on the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. A pilot working for Saudi carrier Saudia was among those dead. https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-killed-in-attack-on-riyadh-airport-part-of-airport-fell-on-mohammad-yousuf-during-attack-1791789653517/embed The Riyadh airport was shut down and the closure has been extended until Saturday. On Monday, the US Federal Aviation Administration urged airlines to exercise caution when flying above or near Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition launched targeted airstrikes against Houthi-held oil and military sites across Sanaa and western Yemen.

Iran is preparing for a wider war and strengthening its nuclear sites in preparation of possible fresh attack by the United States attacks after the midterm elections. A report said the country is also preparing its population for a war and soldiers are reading war stories to young children.

Iran bolstering nuclear sites, preparing people for war: Report

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in an alert has warned that North Korean IT workers are expanding their efforts to secure jobs at Western companies by using American intermediaries, stolen identities and increasingly complex recruitment schemes. In an alert issued on Tuesday (Oct 13), the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center said North Korean operatives were paying people in the US to help conceal their identities and locations while working remotely for American businesses. The agency said the money generated through these jobs helps fund the North Korean government, including its nuclear weapons and military programmes.The latest warning describes a growing network of facilitators who help applicants get hired, attend interviews, verify identities and keep company-issued laptops connected to the internet from locations in the United States. Some are asked to lend their social media or professional networking accounts, receive work devices at home or complete identity checks on behalf of someone else."These actions are illegal, and participating in them puts individuals at risk of law enforcement scrutiny," it warned.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-hits-bank-of-america-with-over-1-2-billion-in-penalties-over-suspicious-transactions-and-chinese-money-laundering-links-1791946441112">US Treasury hits Bank of America with over $1.2 billion in penalties over suspicious transactions and Chinese money-laundering links</a><h2>Americans facing financial pressure among targets</h2>According to the FBI, North Korean IT workers are increasingly "strategically target(ing) those under financial stress," offering payment in exchange for help with employment-related tasks. <a href="https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2026/PSA261013">FBI alert here</a>.The agency said some use elaborate backstories, fake companies and forged documents to make their requests appear legitimate. In some cases, they claim to be Chinese or other East Asian nationals seeking a temporary presence in the US, or Eastern Europeans displaced by the Russia-Ukraine war.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261014/image-1791968839807.png"></figure>The arrangements can extend well beyond recruitment. The FBI said facilitators are sometimes paid to host laptops in their homes, allowing North Korean workers to access the devices remotely while appearing to work from within the United States. These setups, commonly known as “laptop farms”, have been used for years, but operators are now spreading devices across more locations to reduce the risk of disruption.The agency also reported that North Korean workers are subcontracting some assignments to freelancers, often in countries including India, Pakistan and Nigeria. Other freelancers are hired to submit job applications or attend interviews on their behalf.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-peace-prize-winner-navi-pillay-calls-on-us-to-get-back-to-being-defender-of-human-rights-1791948321793">Nobel Peace Prize winner Navi Pillay calls on US to 'get back to' being defender of human rights</a><h2>FBI reports threats and attempts to extort companies</h2>The warning describes a more troubling aspect of the operation: intimidation and extortion.The FBI said it had observed North Korean IT workers threatening former managers and their families after being dismissed, demanding additional payments. Others allegedly threatened to leak sensitive company data, publish proprietary information or damage a business’s reputation unless they received large sums of money.In some cases, US-based facilitators were allegedly sent to companies or the homes of people operating laptop farms to intimidate them.The agency said stolen personal information remains central to the scheme. Operatives use identities belonging to other people to apply for jobs and may obtain access to sensitive personal data through their employment. The FBI also reported cases in which people whose identities had been stolen were contacted and threatened.<h2>Companies urged to strengthen hiring checks</h2>The FBI cautioned employers against relying on a single warning sign to identify fraudulent applicants. Instead, it recommended combining identity checks, access controls and monitoring throughout the recruitment and employment process.Companies were also advised to bring together human resources, IT, security and management teams to identify suspicious patterns. The agency warned that overly broad screening could wrongly exclude legitimate applicants or harm people whose identities have been stolen.

The FBI has warned that North Korean IT workers are using American facilitators, stolen identities and fake job applications to infiltrate US companies. The agency says the schemes are evolving, with some operatives now using threats and extortion to demand payments.


The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in an alert has warned that North Korean IT workers are expanding their efforts to secure jobs at Western companies by using American intermediaries, stolen identities and increasingly complex recruitment schemes. In an alert issued on Tuesday (Oct 13), the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center said North Korean operatives were paying people in the US to help conceal their identities and locations while working remotely for American businesses. The agency said the money generated through these jobs helps fund the North Korean government, including its nuclear weapons and military programmes. The latest warning describes a growing network of facilitators who help applicants get hired, attend interviews, verify identities and keep company-issued laptops connected to the internet from locations in the United States. Some are asked to lend their social media or professional networking accounts, receive work devices at home or complete identity checks on behalf of someone else. "These actions are illegal, and participating in them puts individuals at risk of law enforcement scrutiny," it warned. Also read | US Treasury hits Bank of America with over $1.2 billion in penalties over suspicious transactions and Chinese money-laundering links Americans facing financial pressure among targets According to the FBI, North Korean IT workers are increasingly "strategically target(ing) those under financial stress," offering payment in exchange for help with employment-related tasks. FBI alert here. The agency said some use elaborate backstories, fake companies and forged documents to make their requests appear legitimate. In some cases, they claim to be Chinese or other East Asian nationals seeking a temporary presence in the US, or Eastern Europeans displaced by the Russia-Ukraine war. The arrangements can extend well beyond recruitment. The FBI said facilitators are sometimes paid to host laptops in their homes, allowing North Korean workers to access the devices remotely while appearing to work from within the United States. These setups, commonly known as “laptop farms”, have been used for years, but operators are now spreading devices across more locations to reduce the risk of disruption. The agency also reported that North Korean workers are subcontracting some assignments to freelancers, often in countries including India, Pakistan and Nigeria. Other freelancers are hired to submit job applications or attend interviews on their behalf. Also read | Nobel Peace Prize winner Navi Pillay calls on US to 'get back to' being defender of human rights FBI reports threats and attempts to extort companies The warning describes a more troubling aspect of the operation: intimidation and extortion. The FBI said it had observed North Korean IT workers threatening former managers and their families after being dismissed, demanding additional payments. Others allegedly threatened to leak sensitive company data, publish proprietary information or damage a business’s reputation unless they received large sums of money. In some cases, US-based facilitators were allegedly sent to companies or the homes of people operating laptop farms to intimidate them. The agency said stolen personal information remains central to the scheme. Operatives use identities belonging to other people to apply for jobs and may obtain access to sensitive personal data through their employment. The FBI also reported cases in which people whose identities had been stolen were contacted and threatened. Companies urged to strengthen hiring checks The FBI cautioned employers against relying on a single warning sign to identify fraudulent applicants. Instead, it recommended combining identity checks, access controls and monitoring throughout the recruitment and employment process. Companies were also advised to bring together human resources, IT, security and management teams to identify suspicious patterns. The agency warned that overly broad screening could wrongly exclude legitimate applicants or harm people whose identities have been stolen.

The FBI has warned that North Korean IT workers are using American facilitators, stolen identities and fake job applications to infiltrate US companies. The agency says the schemes are evolving, with some operatives now using threats and extortion to demand payments.

North Korean IT workers a 'global threat'? FBI warns thousands infiltrating companies, gaining access to sensitive corporate networks

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay tuned to this live blog for all the latest news and breaking developments from India and around the world. In the Middle East, tensions are escalating between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis, with reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought Riyadh’s approval for Israel to join the campaign against the Iran-linked group, only for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to reject the proposal.In India, the detention of Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka following the Jantar Mantar protest continues to draw attention, with the duo being sent to five-day judicial custody. Meanwhile, an Air India Frankfurt-Delhi flight was diverted to Jaipur after a hijacking alert, with authorities launching a probe into the incident.In the United States, the midterm election campaign is gathering pace as political parties and candidates step up their outreach ahead of the crucial polls. The campaigns are expected to dominate the US political landscape as candidates focus on key issues and seek to consolidate support.Stay with us for more latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Restrictions of Starlink internet terminal operations were "depriving" Ukraine of defence against Russia's jet-powered drones, a technology adviser to the Ukrainian president said Wednesday after a night of&nbsp;massive Russian strikes."Through their actions, our partners are depriving us of one of the few chances we have to defend the country against jet-powered Shahed drones," Sergiy Beskrestnov said on Telegram.

Starlink restrictions 'depriving' Ukraine of defence means: Zelensky adviser

NATO chief Mark Rutte on Wednesday urged alliance members to step up support for Ukraine's air defences, as Russia's strikes pound the country."With winter coming and with Russia's aggression unrelenting, allies need to do more, especially in support of air defence," Rutte said at a press conference in Estonia.

NATO countries 'need to do more' to boost Ukraine air defences: Rutte

France's tallest mountain was nearly two metres higher last month than its last reported measurement in 2023, surveyors said Wednesday, putting the Alpine peak at 4,807.47 metres (15,772.5 feet).

Mont Blanc nearly two metres taller than in 2023: French surveyors

The Income Tax Department has notified amendments to the India-Mauritius Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), introducing a principal purpose test (PPT) that allows tax treaty benefits to be denied if obtaining such benefits was one of the main purposes of a transaction or arrangement. According to the notification, treaty benefits will not be granted if, based on the relevant facts and circumstances, it is reasonable to conclude that obtaining the benefit was one of the principal purposes of an arrangement or transaction, unless granting the benefit is consistent with the objectives of the relevant treaty provisions. The amendment aims to prevent the misuse of tax treaty provisions to avoid or reduce taxes through tax evasion or avoidance.

India notifies amended tax treaty with Mauritius, introduces principal purpose test

Traders across Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) shut down markets in protest against taxation policies and the implementation of the Food Act 2022, accusing the authorities of imposing additional financial burdens on local businesses already struggling with economic pressures. The protest was directed against strict fee structures, mandatory registration requirements and tax enforcement measures introduced under the Food Act 2022. Traders and their representative unions have raised concerns over the government’s policies, arguing that the measures are creating further difficulties for the business community in the region.

Traders shut markets in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan over taxation, food act

The trial opened in Germany on Wednesday of a Ukrainian former military officer over the bombing of the Nord Stream pipelines, an AFP journalist said.Sergiy Kuznietsov, accused of leading a team of Ukrainians that blew up the gas pipelines in 2022, entered the courtroom in Hamburg accompanied by officials and gave his personal details in response to questions from a judge.

Trial begins in Germany of Ukrainian over Nord Stream sabotage

NVIDIA has announced a USD 250 million investment over five years to strengthen artificial intelligence (AI) safety and security research in the United Kingdom, according to a statement by the company. Under the initiative, NVIDIA will provide USD 50 million annually in computing resources to support research on agentic AI safety and security across the UK. Most of the funding will support the wider AI research community, while a portion will be allocated to the British Open-Ended Learning and Discovery Lab (BOLD), the Science of Fundamental AI Research Lab (SOFAIR) and Imperial College London.

NVIDIA to invest USD 250 million in UK AI safety research over five years

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday said the state government has imposed a one-year ban on the sale of gutkha, paan masala and tobacco products, stressing the need to curb addiction and protect the younger generation.Explaining the decision, Dhami said the matter is reviewed every year and the adverse effects of narcotic substances necessitate steps to restrict their use.He said, “This is reviewed every year, and after the review, the conclusion that emerges is that all these things need to be stopped. The adverse effects of narcotic substances are evident to all of us, and there should be a curb on them. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also has a clear goal and resolve to prevent the country's new generation from going astray due to addiction. If the new generation veers in the wrong direction, it will undoubtedly have a negative impact on the nation's future. Uttarakhand is the land of the gods, and we are advancing this effort at every level.”

Uttarakhand bans sale of gutkha, paan masala, tobacco products for one year: Uttarakhand CM Dhami

Iran on Wednesday said it had hanged a man convicted of carrying out "terrorist attacks" in support of Israel, as authorities step up executions linked to the Middle East war.The judiciary said Ali-Sina Mostafavi, "an armed terrorist and agent of the American-Zionist enemy during the war", had been executed, according to a report by state media.It did not disclose the date of his arrest or trial.

Iran executes man accused of attacks in support of Israel

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis said on Wednesday they had targeted facilities belonging to Saudi oil giant Aramco as well as Riyadh airport, as they vowed to conduct more attacks."The Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a high-quality military operation targeting Aramco in Dhahran, in the Eastern Province, King Khalid International Airport, and the Aramco refinery in Riyadh. This was carried out using a large number of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones," military spokesperson Yahya Saree said, adding, "operations toward Saudi depths will continue in the coming days, targeting Saudi enemy airports and oil facilities".

Houthis say they targeted Saudi oil giant Aramco, airport, refinery

Demand for diesel fuel will remain unusually high into 2027 because of reduced supply from Gulf producers stemming from the US war against Iran, the International Energy Agency said Wednesday."The gasoil market balance will remain tight well into 2027 and is dependent on a recovery of product supply from the Middle East," the Paris-based agency said in its monthly energy markets report.

Diesel supplies to remain 'tight' into 2027, warns IEA

Massive students protests have erupted in Albania as hundreds of students took to streets to seek Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation and better education. Riot police was seen on the street using tear gas and water cannons on the protesting students and protesters were seen throwing stones and eggs at the security personnel. AFP reported that the protesting students smashed windows of the education ministry, defaced the property, tore down a fence and set billboards on fire. In a statement, police said that six officers and one female journalist were injured and at least 23 people were arrested. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tear-gas-molotov-cocktails-smashed-windows-violence-erupts-in-albania-as-students-protest-for-better-education-seeks-pm-s-resignation-1791953312357">READ MORE</a>

Tear gas, Molotov cocktails, smashed windows: Violence erupts in Albania as students protest for better education, seeks PM's resignation

Iran is reportedly strengthening its military capabilities and defenses around sensitive locations, such as nuclear sites, anticipating renewed US attacks after the November midterm elections. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the Islamic establishment has been telling regional officials that Tehran will retaliate to any new strikes across the Middle East. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-bolstering-nuclear-sites-preparing-people-for-war-report-1791961067159">READ MORE</a>

Some AI researchers are such firm believers in the power of the technology that they have taken up smoking. As bizarre as it might sound, this is a claim made by Palantir chief technology officer Shyam Sankar. He said that "mass psychosis" has gripped the Silicon Valley where companies are racing to create artificial general intelligence, or AGI, a machine as intelligent as, or even more than humans.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/case-of-mass-psychosis-ai-researchers-are-smoking-to-prove-it-can-cure-cancer-1791962968140"> READ MORE</a> &nbsp;

Case of 'mass psychosis': AI researchers are smoking because they are sure AGI can cure cancer

Katie Zacharia, the new White House Press Secretary who replaced Karoline Leavitt, made headlines on Tuesday (Oct 13) as she made her briefing room debut. A conservative commentator and former State Department employee, Zacharia had a disastrous debut that was marked by remarkably few questions from journalists and loads of praise for US President Donald Trump. Notably, the briefing lasted only 14 minutes and included questions from only three conservative outlets before she deferred all questions to Trump himself.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-katie-zacharia-trump-s-new-press-secretary-under-fire-after-china-law-degree-gaffe-past-links-to-maga-inner-circle-emerge-1791963477582"> READ MORE</a>

Talismanic Indian batter Virat Kohli broke the internet with his LinkedIn debut, joining Sachin Tendulkar, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, and Robin Uthappa on the professional networking platform. His move is significant, considering his reach and social media following are among the top five athletes worldwide. Kohli has over 273 million Instagram followers, the third-highest behind Cristiano Ronaldo (680 million) and Lionel Messi (517 million), making him the most-followed Indian on Instagram. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-linkedin-debut-agilitas-one8world-1791965696854">READ MORE</a>

Virat Kohli breaks the internet with LinkedIn debut: ‘Time to build something’

In the first public display of support for the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi slammed the arrest of the group's leaders for protesting at Jantar Mantar on Tuesday morning. The support evoked a prompt thank you message from the CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261014/image-1791966248223.png"></figure>

Rahul Gandhi backs jailed CJP leaders, questions action over hoisting national flag

The house of the man accused of shooting anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota is being demolished in Mansa. Police personnel are present at the spot. The accused was arrested in Churu, Rajasthan, earlier today.

Man accused of shooting anti-drug activist arrested, house demolished 

At least six people have been killed after Russia launched air attacks in Ukraine, causing power cuts in parts of the capital, Kyiv. This comes days after United States President Donald Trump announced an “energy ceasefire” in the more-than-four-year war. The ⁠Russian Defence Ministry stated on Wednesday (October 14) that its forces had carried out a “massive” strike ‌against communications and energy infrastructure facilities ⁠in Ukraine, the Interfax ⁠news ⁠agency reported.

At least six die after Russia launches attack on Ukraine, cuts power in Kyiv

Congress leader Pawan Khera on Wednesday (October 14) said Jantar Mantar “belongs to the people of India”, days after it was de-notified as a protest site. “Jantar Mantar belongs to the people of India. It is not anyone’s private property that they can decide who gets to enter and who must stay away,” Khera said in a post on X.He added, “The RSS-BJP’s project of dividing Indians and turning them against one another has suffered a massive setback. Rahul Gandhi’s unifying call has brought the focus back where it belongs: a united struggle against this Vote Chor regime to save our Constitution, democracy and Republic.”

‘Jantar Mantar belongs to people of India…not private property,’ says Congress leader Pawan Khera

At the ASEAN-India Defence Think Tank Forum, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says, "I would like to suggest some practical outcomes from this forum. First, let us develop a joint India-ASEAN research agenda on maritime security, cyber threats, emerging technologies, disaster response, and defence industry cooperation. Second, let us encourage regular exchanges among researchers, including young scholars, through fellowships, visiting programs, and joint publications. Third, let us identify a small number of pilot projects, for example, a tabletop exercise on maritime disaster response, a joint study on counter-drone solutions, or a research project on secure maritime information sharing. Fourth, let us promote Track 1.5 and Track 2 dialogues so that researchers, practitioners, and policymakers can continue their discussions between formal meetings... India seeks an Indo-Pacific where all countries, large and small, can make their own choices, protect their interests, and pursue development in peace... Let this forum help us move from shared understanding to practical cooperation, from discussion to joint research, and from joint research to solutions to improve the security and well-being of our people..."

Rajnath Singh on joint India-ASEAN research agenda

An Air India flight from Frankfurt to Delhi was diverted to Jaipur following a security alert and landed safely at Jaipur International Airport. While preliminary reports suggested a bomb threat, an airport source said that the alert was related to a hijacking rumour.&nbsp;

Frankfurt-Delhi Air India flight diverted to Jaipur after security alert, probe on

A Special Executive Magistrate (SEM) on Wednesday (October 14) sent Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka to five days of judicial custody. Action against them was taken a day after the duo, along with several others from the outfit, breached the de-notified Jantar Mantar protest site.&nbsp;

CJP's Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were sent to 5-day judicial custody

Saudi Arabia’s energy ministry claimed that a strike caused a small fire at an Aramco building in Dhahran with no injuries, following a Houthi warning for civilians to evacuate Saudi oil sites it described as a “legitimate target”.

Houthis hit Aramco hours after Saudi-led coalition strikes Sanaa Oil site

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including India's immediate neighbourhood, major developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global security, and other breaking stories shaping the world.

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay tuned to this live blog for all the latest news and breaking developments from India and around the world. In the Middle East, tensions are escalating between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis, with reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought Riyadh’s approval for Israel to join the campaign against the Iran-linked group, only for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to reject the proposal. In India, the detention of Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka following the Jantar Mantar protest continues to draw attention, with the duo being sent to five-day judicial custody. Meanwhile, an Air India Frankfurt-Delhi flight was diverted to Jaipur after a hijacking alert, with authorities launching a probe into the incident. In the United States, the midterm election campaign is gathering pace as political parties and candidates step up their outreach ahead of the crucial polls. The campaigns are expected to dominate the US political landscape as candidates focus on key issues and seek to consolidate support. Stay with us for more latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including India's immediate neighbourhood, major developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global security, and other breaking stories shaping the world.

Latest News India & World LIVE updates: Rahul Gandhi backs CJP, Virat Kohli joins LinkedIn and more

Massive students protests have erupted in Albania as hundreds of students took to streets to seek Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation and better education. Riot police was seen on the street using tear gas and water cannons on the protesting students and protesters were seen throwing stones and eggs at the security personnel. AFP reported that the protesting students smashed windows of the education ministry, defaced the property, &nbsp;tore down a fence and set billboards on fire. In a statement, police said that six officers and one female journalist were injured and at least 23 people were arrested. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Ervin Demo condemned the violence. "I call on all participants to remain calm, violence is unjustifiable," he said in a Facebook post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The brutality-and above all, the terrifying amateurism-of the Albanian police is out of control.
​Demonstrating total recklessness, they are firing tear gas deep inside densely populated neighborhoods of Tirana, causing severe distress inside citizens' homes. This must stop. 🇦🇱🦩 https://t.co/vREFRbP49R&mdash; Tirana Report (@Tirana_Report) <a href="https://x.com/Tirana_Report/status/2110049019779219804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/delhi-protest-delhi-braces-for-major-monday-showdown-amid-political-tensions-1791789618988">Delhi Protest: Delhi braces for major Monday showdown amid political tensions</a>&nbsp;Video footage published by local media appeared to show officers striking and dragging protesters, prompting allegations of excessive force. Other footage showed demonstrators throwing objects at police and damaging property. &nbsp;The Albanian Helsinki Committee, a human rights organization, expressed concern over violence during the demonstration and called for an independent investigation into allegations of excessive police force. The organization condemned violence by any party and said the actions of individual demonstrators should not be used to justify treating all participants as violent.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-adjourns-hearing-on-delhi-protest-metro-train-curbs-pleas-to-october-15-1791876640187">SC adjourns hearing on Delhi protest, metro-train curbs pleas to October 15</a>&nbsp;Anti-government protests have been taking place in Albania since four months. It was sparked by a luxury tourism project linked to US President Donald Trump's family. Protesters have opposed plans for a luxury hotel in a coastal nature reserve linked to Trump's daughter, Ivanka, and her husband, Jared Kushner. The project has fuelled anger over alleged corruption and a lack of transparency, with protesters demanding Rama's resignation.&nbsp;Students echoed those demands but told local media that Tuesday's rally was also to decry university conditions, tuition fees and a lack of support for young people. "Problems are not solved by pretending they do not exist. Students have questions, demands and plenty of reasons to be heard," one of the organisers said on Instagram.&nbsp;

Police used tear gas and water cannons as hundreds of students protested in Albania's capital, Tirana, demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation and better education. Seven people, including six officers and a journalist, were injured, while 23 protesters were arrested.

Massive students protests have erupted in Albania as hundreds of students took to streets to seek Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation and better education. Riot police was seen on the street using tear gas and water cannons on the protesting students and protesters were seen throwing stones and eggs at the security personnel. AFP reported that the protesting students smashed windows of the education ministry, defaced the property, tore down a fence and set billboards on fire. In a statement, police said that six officers and one female journalist were injured and at least 23 people were arrested. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Ervin Demo condemned the violence. "I call on all participants to remain calm, violence is unjustifiable," he said in a Facebook post.

Police used tear gas and water cannons as hundreds of students protested in Albania's capital, Tirana, demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation and better education. Seven people, including six officers and a journalist, were injured, while 23 protesters were arrested.

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Navi Pillay on Tuesday (Oct 13) urged the United States to return to its traditional role as a global defender of human rights, criticising Washington’s campaign against the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its decision to impose sanctions on the institution. “My message is: ‘You have to get back to playing your serious role as a leader, playing a liberatory role for the rest of the world,'" Pillay, 85, told Reuters in The Hague on Tuesday, where she serves as a judge at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations’ highest court.The remarks came days after Pillay was announced as this year’s Nobel Peace Prize winner. Hours after the announcement on Friday, the US unveiled sweeping sanctions targeting the ICC, where Pillay previously worked.Pillay said she did not believe the timing was coincidental, arguing that efforts to weaken international criminal justice through the court had been developing for some time. Notably, US President Donald Trump was also a contender for the Nobel Peace Prize; he was nominated for the honour by the leaders or governments of Pakistan, Israel, and Cambodia. “I think it’s very unfortunate. However, the plans of targeting international criminal justice through the ICC were brewing all the time,” she said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-navi-pillay-nobel-peace-prize-2026-goes-to-indian-origin-human-rights-pioneer-1791536597215">Nobel Peace Prize 2026 goes to Indian-Origin Human Rights Pioneer Navi Pillay</a><h2>Pillay condemns US sanctions against ICC</h2>Pillay said she visited ICC staff after returning from Nuremberg to The Hague to express solidarity with those working to advance international criminal justice and support personnel who have already been sanctioned.The sanctions have raised concerns about the pressure facing international judicial institutions. On Friday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the ICC as a “rogue court” and said Washington would not allow it to prosecute Americans.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-end-icc-us-sanctions-international-court-threatens-to-cripple-hours-after-navi-pillay-wins-nobel-peace-prize-1791559336980">‘We will end ICC’: US sanctions International court, threatens to cripple hours after Navi Pillay wins Nobel Peace Prize</a><h2>What does the US have against the ICC?</h2>The US has long opposed aspects of the ICC’s jurisdiction, particularly its ability to prosecute alleged atrocity crimes committed on the territory of member states even when the accused is a national of a country that has not joined the court.President Donald Trump has been particularly angered by arrest warrants issued by the ICC in 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant. His administration has intensified pressure on the court in recent months.Speaking at an event at the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo on Saturday, Pillay described the sanctions as “unheard of, unacceptable”.“There are hundreds of staff who feel they are under threat,” she said via video link from Nuremberg, adding that the measures targeted judges over the judicial orders they issue.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Navi Pillay has urged the US to resume its role as a defender of human rights, criticising sanctions against the International Criminal Court. She also raised concerns about threats to international justice and the prosecution of sexual violence in conflict.


Nobel Peace Prize laureate Navi Pillay on Tuesday (Oct 13) urged the United States to return to its traditional role as a global defender of human rights, criticising Washington’s campaign against the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its decision to impose sanctions on the institution. “My message is: ‘You have to get back to playing your serious role as a leader, playing a liberatory role for the rest of the world,'" Pillay, 85, told Reuters in The Hague on Tuesday, where she serves as a judge at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations’ highest court. The remarks came days after Pillay was announced as this year’s Nobel Peace Prize winner. Hours after the announcement on Friday, the US unveiled sweeping sanctions targeting the ICC, where Pillay previously worked. Pillay said she did not believe the timing was coincidental, arguing that efforts to weaken international criminal justice through the court had been developing for some time. Notably, US President Donald Trump was also a contender for the Nobel Peace Prize; he was nominated for the honour by the leaders or governments of Pakistan, Israel, and Cambodia. “I think it’s very unfortunate. However, the plans of targeting international criminal justice through the ICC were brewing all the time,” she said. Also read | Nobel Peace Prize 2026 goes to Indian-Origin Human Rights Pioneer Navi Pillay Pillay condemns US sanctions against ICC Pillay said she visited ICC staff after returning from Nuremberg to The Hague to express solidarity with those working to advance international criminal justice and support personnel who have already been sanctioned. The sanctions have raised concerns about the pressure facing international judicial institutions. On Friday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the ICC as a “rogue court” and said Washington would not allow it to prosecute Americans. Also read | ‘We will end ICC’: US sanctions International court, threatens to cripple hours after Navi Pillay wins Nobel Peace Prize What does the US have against the ICC? The US has long opposed aspects of the ICC’s jurisdiction, particularly its ability to prosecute alleged atrocity crimes committed on the territory of member states even when the accused is a national of a country that has not joined the court. President Donald Trump has been particularly angered by arrest warrants issued by the ICC in 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant. His administration has intensified pressure on the court in recent months. Speaking at an event at the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo on Saturday, Pillay described the sanctions as “unheard of, unacceptable”. “There are hundreds of staff who feel they are under threat,” she said via video link from Nuremberg, adding that the measures targeted judges over the judicial orders they issue.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Navi Pillay has urged the US to resume its role as a defender of human rights, criticising sanctions against the International Criminal Court. She also raised concerns about threats to international justice and the prosecution of sexual violence in conflict.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Navi Pillay calls on US to 'get back to' being defender of human rights

Amid rising Saudi-Houthi conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly sought Saudi Arabia's approval, through US mediation, for Israel to join the campaign against Houthis. A report in Haaretz quoted a diplomatic source adding that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman opposed Israeli military involvement because of the likely backlash among the kingdom's public. Israel wants to become the part of the fight as Houthis are linked with Iran's Axis of Resistance.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-accuses-houthis-of-driving-up-oil-prices-before-us-polls-warns-of-consequences-1791919871695">Trump accuses Houthis of driving up oil prices before US midterms</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had long pushed for Saudi Arabia to normalise ties with Israel, following the UAE, Bahrain and Morocco's moves to establish relations with Tel Aviv in 2020 under the Abraham Accords. However, efforts to bring Riyadh on board have faced significant hurdles, particularly since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023. Saudi Arabia has maintained that it will not establish diplomatic ties with Israel without substantial progress towards the creation of an independent Palestinian state, a position that remains at odds with Netanyahu's opposition to Palestinian statehood.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-erdogan-saudi-arabia-houthi-attacks-yemen-conflict-1791907334418">Trump warns Houthis, says Erdogan would do as asked on Saudi Arabia</a><h2>Saudi-Houthi conflict</h2> The tensions between Saudi and Houthis rose mid July this year when Saudi-backed Yemeni forces bombed the runway at Sanaa International Airport to block an Iranian civilian flight carrying Houthi delegates returning from Tehran. Riyadh claimed the flight also covertly carried Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) military personnel and equipment intended to help the Houthis enforce a chokehold on the Red Sea. After months of a war of words, the Houthis have launched coordinated, multi-wave aerial attacks on Saudi. Recent attacks have directly struck Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport and Saudi Aramco in Dhahran and Ras Tanura. The Saudi-led coalition has responded with intensive air campaigns targeting Houthi military sites, fuel depots, and positions around Sanaa and Hodeidah. Earlier in the week, deadly Houthi strikes hit King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, killed at least 13 people. Flights remain suspended and countries like the US, India and UK issue travel warnings for Saudi airports.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly sought Saudi Arabia's approval, through US mediation, for Israel to join the campaign against Yemen's Houthis. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman opposed the proposal, citing fears of a public backlash, Haaretz reported.

Amid rising Saudi-Houthi conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly sought Saudi Arabia's approval, through US mediation, for Israel to join the campaign against Houthis. A report in Haaretz quoted a diplomatic source adding that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman opposed Israeli military involvement because of the likely backlash among the kingdom's public. Israel wants to become the part of the fight as Houthis are linked with Iran's Axis of Resistance. Also Read: Trump accuses Houthis of driving up oil prices before US midterms US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had long pushed for Saudi Arabia to normalise ties with Israel, following the UAE, Bahrain and Morocco's moves to establish relations with Tel Aviv in 2020 under the Abraham Accords. However, efforts to bring Riyadh on board have faced significant hurdles, particularly since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023. Saudi Arabia has maintained that it will not establish diplomatic ties with Israel without substantial progress towards the creation of an independent Palestinian state, a position that remains at odds with Netanyahu's opposition to Palestinian statehood. Also Read: Trump warns Houthis, says Erdogan would do as asked on Saudi Arabia Saudi-Houthi conflict The tensions between Saudi and Houthis rose mid July this year when Saudi-backed Yemeni forces bombed the runway at Sanaa International Airport to block an Iranian civilian flight carrying Houthi delegates returning from Tehran. Riyadh claimed the flight also covertly carried Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) military personnel and equipment intended to help the Houthis enforce a chokehold on the Red Sea. After months of a war of words, the Houthis have launched coordinated, multi-wave aerial attacks on Saudi. Recent attacks have directly struck Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport and Saudi Aramco in Dhahran and Ras Tanura. The Saudi-led coalition has responded with intensive air campaigns targeting Houthi military sites, fuel depots, and positions around Sanaa and Hodeidah. Earlier in the week, deadly Houthi strikes hit King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, killed at least 13 people. Flights remain suspended and countries like the US, India and UK issue travel warnings for Saudi airports.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly sought Saudi Arabia's approval, through US mediation, for Israel to join the campaign against Yemen's Houthis. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman opposed the proposal, citing fears of a public backlash, Haaretz reported.

Nepal's Himalayan Cross Border Commerce Association has asked China to reopen the Tatopani-Khasa border point, saying the crossing has remained closed on the Chinese side and left festive goods stranded during the Dashain shopping season. In a letter to Chinese Ambassador Zhang Maoming on Tuesday (Oct 13), the association said the Tatopani crossing remained the most viable route for cross-border trade after recent weather-related disruptions damaged other routes. The association said hundreds of containers carrying festival-related cargo remained stranded at the border, including perishable goods, agricultural products and seasonal merchandise. It warned that delays could cause losses for small traders and contribute to shortages in Nepal's markets. The association said authorities on the Nepali side had cleared obstacles and restored safe passage, making the road operational for customs clearance and vehicle movement.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-hits-bank-of-america-with-over-1-2-billion-in-penalties-over-suspicious-transactions-and-chinese-money-laundering-links-1791946441112">US fines Bank of America $1.2 billion, flags Chinese money-laundering links</a> It urged the Chinese Embassy to coordinate with customs authorities and relevant departments in China's Tibet Autonomous Region to facilitate the reopening of the crossing and clearance of stranded vehicles and goods. The request comes as Nepal enters Dashain, one of the country's biggest shopping periods, when demand typically rises for clothes, footwear, electronics, decorative lights and other household goods. But this year's festive supply chain has been disrupted by floods, landslides and damage to key trade routes.<img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261014/image-1791952602511.jpeg"> The Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods on August 26 severely disrupted the Rasuwa and Tatopani routes, while heavy rainfall and landslides between September 24 and 27 further affected transportation, including the Korala route. Customs data for the first two months of Nepal's current fiscal year, from mid-July to mid-September 2026, shows imports worth around 7.92 billion Nepali rupees through Rasuwa and 8.33 billion rupees through Mustang. Imports through Tatopani during the period stood at around 134.6 million rupees. Mustang's share of Nepal's total imports rose from 0.31% in the first month of the fiscal year to 2.08% in the first two months, an increase of 1.77 percentage points. After the Rasuwa route was devastated by floods, traders redirected some goods through other crossings, including Korala. But road damage following heavy rainfall has also disrupted movement there. Ramachandra Parajuli, secretary general of the Himalayan Cross-Himalayan Border Chamber of Commerce, told WION that trade through Nepal-China land routes was now "almost at a standstill". He said the Tatopani crossing was closed by the Chinese side a few days after the floods. "The other one, Tatopani border point, which was operating and was in a healthy condition, was also closed unilaterally by the Chinese side, by the Chinese government, a few days ago or let us say three or four days after the floods."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-presses-lipulekh-pass-claim-in-talks-with-china-1756571311530">Nepal presses Lipulekh Pass claim in talks with China</a> Parajuli said goods that normally enter Nepal through Tatopani had not been able to move into the country and called for diplomatic initiatives to reopen the crossing. "There are many perishable goods stuck there. There are many daily-consumption goods and various kinds of tools and other goods used in Nepal that are stuck there," he said. He said the government, private sector and other agencies should work together to bring the crossing back into operation. The disruption is also being felt in Kathmandu's festive market. Shopkeepers say the usual Dashain rush has been weaker this year, with damaged roads also making it harder for customers from outside the capital to travel to Kathmandu for shopping. Yagya Raj Bhatta, a shopkeeper, told WION the disruption had severely affected his business. "It has immensely affected our business. First, Tatopani was closed following the earthquake. Then the Rasuwa border point, which was convenient for us, was destroyed by floods. Now, there are road problems at Korala as well." He said goods from the hills had not arrived and customers from outside Kathmandu were also unable to travel for festive shopping. "Earlier, we used to do good business during Dashain, but this time it has been unusually quiet. Sales are at their lowest," he said. &nbsp;

Nepal's festive trade is under pressure as goods pile up at the Tatopani-Khasa border. Traders say the key China-Nepal crossing remains closed, leaving essential and seasonal supplies stranded just as Dashain shopping picks up.

Nepal's Himalayan Cross Border Commerce Association has asked China to reopen the Tatopani-Khasa border point, saying the crossing has remained closed on the Chinese side and left festive goods stranded during the Dashain shopping season. In a letter to Chinese Ambassador Zhang Maoming on Tuesday (Oct 13), the association said the Tatopani crossing remained the most viable route for cross-border trade after recent weather-related disruptions damaged other routes. The association said hundreds of containers carrying festival-related cargo remained stranded at the border, including perishable goods, agricultural products and seasonal merchandise. It warned that delays could cause losses for small traders and contribute to shortages in Nepal's markets. The association said authorities on the Nepali side had cleared obstacles and restored safe passage, making the road operational for customs clearance and vehicle movement. Also read | US fines Bank of America $1.2 billion, flags Chinese money-laundering links It urged the Chinese Embassy to coordinate with customs authorities and relevant departments in China's Tibet Autonomous Region to facilitate the reopening of the crossing and clearance of stranded vehicles and goods. The request comes as Nepal enters Dashain, one of the country's biggest shopping periods, when demand typically rises for clothes, footwear, electronics, decorative lights and other household goods. But this year's festive supply chain has been disrupted by floods, landslides and damage to key trade routes. The Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods on August 26 severely disrupted the Rasuwa and Tatopani routes, while heavy rainfall and landslides between September 24 and 27 further affected transportation, including the Korala route. Customs data for the first two months of Nepal's current fiscal year, from mid-July to mid-September 2026, shows imports worth around 7.92 billion Nepali rupees through Rasuwa and 8.33 billion rupees through Mustang. Imports through Tatopani during the period stood at around 134.6 million rupees. Mustang's share of Nepal's total imports rose from 0.31% in the first month of the fiscal year to 2.08% in the first two months, an increase of 1.77 percentage points. After the Rasuwa route was devastated by floods, traders redirected some goods through other crossings, including Korala. But road damage following heavy rainfall has also disrupted movement there. Ramachandra Parajuli, secretary general of the Himalayan Cross-Himalayan Border Chamber of Commerce, told WION that trade through Nepal-China land routes was now "almost at a standstill". He said the Tatopani crossing was closed by the Chinese side a few days after the floods. "The other one, Tatopani border point, which was operating and was in a healthy condition, was also closed unilaterally by the Chinese side, by the Chinese government, a few days ago or let us say three or four days after the floods." Also read | Nepal presses Lipulekh Pass claim in talks with China Parajuli said goods that normally enter Nepal through Tatopani had not been able to move into the country and called for diplomatic initiatives to reopen the crossing. "There are many perishable goods stuck there. There are many daily-consumption goods and various kinds of tools and other goods used in Nepal that are stuck there," he said. He said the government, private sector and other agencies should work together to bring the crossing back into operation. The disruption is also being felt in Kathmandu's festive market. Shopkeepers say the usual Dashain rush has been weaker this year, with damaged roads also making it harder for customers from outside the capital to travel to Kathmandu for shopping. Yagya Raj Bhatta, a shopkeeper, told WION the disruption had severely affected his business. "It has immensely affected our business. First, Tatopani was closed following the earthquake. Then the Rasuwa border point, which was convenient for us, was destroyed by floods. Now, there are road problems at Korala as well." He said goods from the hills had not arrived and customers from outside Kathmandu were also unable to travel for festive shopping. "Earlier, we used to do good business during Dashain, but this time it has been unusually quiet. Sales are at their lowest," he said.

Nepal's festive trade is under pressure as goods pile up at the Tatopani-Khasa border. Traders say the key China-Nepal crossing remains closed, leaving essential and seasonal supplies stranded just as Dashain shopping picks up.

Nepal traders ask China to reopen Tatopani border point for festival trade

Donald Trump’s new press secretary, Katie Zacharia, once talked about Natalie Harp, a long-time trusted aide of the president, calling her a "true, true patriot." Harp has become a key part of Trump's entourage and is also known for writing and publishing his Truth Social posts. Meanwhile, Zacharia started in her new role on October 12, and is already being slammed for the 14-minute briefing in which she only took three questions.&nbsp;Harp has been criticised for sharing controversial posts and content that was later deleted or caused political pushback. She has been slammed for curating positive news and social media commentary, acting as a strict gatekeeper.<h2>Zacharia slams those targeting Natalie Harp</h2>Zacharia has defended Harp in the past, slamming media houses for their persistent and shameful "obsession" with Harp. She pushed back against narratives and controversies surrounding the aide's high-profile role in the administration. In an interview with News24 presenter Gabriella Power, Zacharia said, "Natalie Harp is a true, pure patriot. She absolutely loves this country and serves the president in a capacity that many others cannot and will not."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/my-president-i-mean-my-husband-trump-s-new-press-secretary-katie-zacharia-s-first-briefing-goes-off-the-rails-in-14-minutes-1791915462032">‘My president, I mean my husband’: Trump's new press secretary Katie Zacharia's first briefing goes off the rails in 14 minutes</a>&nbsp;She added that most people in Washington are pursuing career opportunities, Harp is not running towards any such thing, and she is motivated "truly to serve" because "she does love her country."&nbsp;Zacharia had also slammed Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff who said Trump wanted to "build his ballroom and travel with Natalie". She said, "There just is this vitriol by the left-wing media for her," and that they are "making something up out of thin air on Natalie Harp." Zacharia said Ossoff "wanted to set off this firestorm for her and for the president" when he made such comments.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-natalie-harp-trump-s-human-printer-is-making-headlines-again-here">Who is Natalie Harp? Trump’s ‘human printer’ is making headlines again. Here’s why</a>&nbsp;Zacharia was appointed as the new White House Press Secretary on October 9 and started the role on October 12. She has appeared regularly on Fox News, Newsmax and other outlets as a legal and political commentator. At her first briefing, she praised and thanked Trump for giving her the opportunity to become his press secretary, saying she wanted to work for him for a long time.&nbsp;According to her LinkedIn profile, she has served as senior communications adviser to Trump Media and Technology Group since June 2026. Zacharia was also the deputy assistant secretary and spokesperson for former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. &nbsp;

Katie Zacharia, the new White House press secretary, defended Natalie Harp and slammed those taking shots at the 35-year-old Trump aide who handles his social media and other communication. Zacharia said no one could do what she was doing. 

Donald Trump’s new press secretary, Katie Zacharia, once talked about Natalie Harp, a long-time trusted aide of the president, calling her a "true, true patriot." Harp has become a key part of Trump's entourage and is also known for writing and publishing his Truth Social posts. Meanwhile, Zacharia started in her new role on October 12, and is already being slammed for the 14-minute briefing in which she only took three questions. Harp has been criticised for sharing controversial posts and content that was later deleted or caused political pushback. She has been slammed for curating positive news and social media commentary, acting as a strict gatekeeper. Zacharia slams those targeting Natalie Harp Zacharia has defended Harp in the past, slamming media houses for their persistent and shameful "obsession" with Harp. She pushed back against narratives and controversies surrounding the aide's high-profile role in the administration. In an interview with News24 presenter Gabriella Power, Zacharia said, "Natalie Harp is a true, pure patriot. She absolutely loves this country and serves the president in a capacity that many others cannot and will not." Also Read: ‘My president, I mean my husband’: Trump's new press secretary Katie Zacharia's first briefing goes off the rails in 14 minutes She added that most people in Washington are pursuing career opportunities, Harp is not running towards any such thing, and she is motivated "truly to serve" because "she does love her country." Zacharia had also slammed Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff who said Trump wanted to "build his ballroom and travel with Natalie". She said, "There just is this vitriol by the left-wing media for her," and that they are "making something up out of thin air on Natalie Harp." Zacharia said Ossoff "wanted to set off this firestorm for her and for the president" when he made such comments. Also Read: Who is Natalie Harp? Trump’s ‘human printer’ is making headlines again. Here’s why Zacharia was appointed as the new White House Press Secretary on October 9 and started the role on October 12. She has appeared regularly on Fox News, Newsmax and other outlets as a legal and political commentator. At her first briefing, she praised and thanked Trump for giving her the opportunity to become his press secretary, saying she wanted to work for him for a long time. According to her LinkedIn profile, she has served as senior communications adviser to Trump Media and Technology Group since June 2026. Zacharia was also the deputy assistant secretary and spokesperson for former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Katie Zacharia, the new White House press secretary, defended Natalie Harp and slammed those taking shots at the 35-year-old Trump aide who handles his social media and other communication. Zacharia said no one could do what she was doing.&nbsp;

White House press secretary Katie Zacharia slammed those taking shots at Natalie Harp

A federal judge on Tuesday (Oct 13) ordered the Trump administration to allow journalists from CNN, MS NOW and Politico to access the White House while a lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s press ban moves through the courts. US District Judge Timothy Kelly directed the administration not to enforce its September 18, 2026, decision to revoke the White House “hard pass” press credentials held by employees of the three news organisations. The ruling extends protections for the outlets as the legal battle continues and sets the stage for a potential government appeal.Kelly’s earlier order blocking the ban was due to expire on Tuesday.<h2>Why did Trump ban the three media organisations from the White House?</h2>Trump has repeatedly defended the decision to restrict the outlets, pointing to what he described as their “negative” or “one-sided” coverage of his administration.In court filings, however, the Justice Department presented an additional justification, arguing that the decision was linked to national security concerns. It cited reporting by the organisations on the Iran war, construction of a ballroom in the White House’s East Wing and the midterm Republican convention.The news organisations have argued that the ban interferes with their ability to report on the president and risks discouraging other media outlets from pursuing critical coverage.<h2>Judge questions government’s rationale</h2>During a hearing last Thursday, Kelly questioned the differing explanations offered by Trump and government lawyers for the decision. The judge described it as “unusual” for the decision-maker to have publicly cited one set of reasons for an action while the government subsequently advanced another explanation in court.Justice Department attorney Michael Velchik argued that the president has discretion to remove reporters or news organisations from the White House. He also said CNN had been on notice for years, pointing to Trump’s repeated description of the network as “fake news”.“Trump doesn’t mind negative press stories if he deserves them,” Velchik told the court.<h2>Media organisations challenge the ban</h2>Ted Boutrous Jr., the lawyer representing the three news organisations, argued that Trump had personally made the decision and had repeatedly explained his reasons in public. “We know what he decided. He said it over and over again,” Boutrous said, adding that the president had issued the ban himself.Boutrous also questioned the basis for the decision, saying the only explanation he could come up with was that the president had “woke up on the wrong side of the bed” and decided to impose the restrictions.The latest order keeps the three organisations’ White House access in place as the case proceeds.

A US federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore White House access for CNN, MS NOW and Politico while their lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s press ban continues. All you need to know.

A federal judge on Tuesday (Oct 13) ordered the Trump administration to allow journalists from CNN, MS NOW and Politico to access the White House while a lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s press ban moves through the courts. US District Judge Timothy Kelly directed the administration not to enforce its September 18, 2026, decision to revoke the White House “hard pass” press credentials held by employees of the three news organisations. The ruling extends protections for the outlets as the legal battle continues and sets the stage for a potential government appeal. Kelly’s earlier order blocking the ban was due to expire on Tuesday. Why did Trump ban the three media organisations from the White House? Trump has repeatedly defended the decision to restrict the outlets, pointing to what he described as their “negative” or “one-sided” coverage of his administration. In court filings, however, the Justice Department presented an additional justification, arguing that the decision was linked to national security concerns. It cited reporting by the organisations on the Iran war, construction of a ballroom in the White House’s East Wing and the midterm Republican convention. The news organisations have argued that the ban interferes with their ability to report on the president and risks discouraging other media outlets from pursuing critical coverage. Judge questions government’s rationale During a hearing last Thursday, Kelly questioned the differing explanations offered by Trump and government lawyers for the decision. The judge described it as “unusual” for the decision-maker to have publicly cited one set of reasons for an action while the government subsequently advanced another explanation in court. Justice Department attorney Michael Velchik argued that the president has discretion to remove reporters or news organisations from the White House. He also said CNN had been on notice for years, pointing to Trump’s repeated description of the network as “fake news”. “Trump doesn’t mind negative press stories if he deserves them,” Velchik told the court. Media organisations challenge the ban Ted Boutrous Jr., the lawyer representing the three news organisations, argued that Trump had personally made the decision and had repeatedly explained his reasons in public. “We know what he decided. He said it over and over again,” Boutrous said, adding that the president had issued the ban himself. Boutrous also questioned the basis for the decision, saying the only explanation he could come up with was that the president had “woke up on the wrong side of the bed” and decided to impose the restrictions. The latest order keeps the three organisations’ White House access in place as the case proceeds.

A US federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore White House access for CNN, MS NOW and Politico while their lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s press ban continues. All you need to know.

Judge indefinitely blocks Trump from banning CNN, MS NOW, Politico from White House

Days after his office denied any such visit, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has admitted that Egypt’s then-intelligence chief Abbas Kamel visited Israel shortly before the Oct 7, 2023 attack by Hamas. In an interview with Israel’s Channel 14, Netanyahu confirmed that Kamel had spent 59 minutes in the country but denied speaking to him or meeting him. Netanyahu said that he has no information on whom did Kamel meet. The Israeli PM said that he was attending a memorial ceremony for Israeli Defence Forces soldiers at the time of Kamel's visit. This is the first clarification by Netanyahu ahead of Israeli elections and after a row broke out over warnings given to Israeli government before 2023 Hamas attack. Earlier, his office has dismissed the report as “fake news.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-warned-netanyahu-about-oct-7-hamas-attack-but-he-ignored-report-1790565510309">Egypt warned Netanyahu thrice about Oct 7 Hamas attack but he ignored: Report</a>

“He didn’t meet with me, he didn’t speak with me. I want to know whom he met? When does an intelligence chief meet with a head of state? I was not there…because I was in a memorial ceremony for IDF soldiers at that time," he said. He blamed the security chiefs wfor not waking him on the night of October 7, claiming that despite signs indicating a Hamas attack they were afraid he would cause a “miscalculation” by striking the terror group hard. According to Netanyahu, the intelligence and military heads believed Hamas was carrying out a drill or preparing for a minor attack. "If they had woken me up, they knew I’d have woken everybody and canceled Nova and put the air force on alert. If we wake up the prime minister, he’ll cause Hamas to attack us without meaning to,” Netanyahu claimed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-confirms-netanyahu-s-visit-six-hour-talks-amid-oct-7-hamas-attack-report-1790652144700">UAE confirms Netanyahu's visit: Six-hour talks amid Oct 7 Hamas attack report</a><h2>Egypt’s intelligence chief warned about Oct 7 attack</h2>In September last week, it was reported that Egypt’s intelligence chief Abbas Kamel called Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu just days before Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack and warned him of the onslaught from Gaza. Not only this, Egypt had reportedly issued two more warnings to Israel previous to Kamel's message. However, all the warnings were ignored by Israel, The Wall Street Journal reported. This came day after it was reported that UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed had spoken to Netanyahu and warned him about a major operation being planned by Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar ahead of Oct 7 attack.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged that Egypt's then-intelligence chief Abbas Kamel visited Israel shortly before the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, but denied meeting him. Netanyahu questioned who Kamel met, as reports of Egyptian warnings before the assault resurfaced.

Days after his office denied any such visit, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has admitted that Egypt’s then-intelligence chief Abbas Kamel visited Israel shortly before the Oct 7, 2023 attack by Hamas. In an interview with Israel’s Channel 14, Netanyahu confirmed that Kamel had spent 59 minutes in the country but denied speaking to him or meeting him. Netanyahu said that he has no information on whom did Kamel meet. The Israeli PM said that he was attending a memorial ceremony for Israeli Defence Forces soldiers at the time of Kamel's visit. This is the first clarification by Netanyahu ahead of Israeli elections and after a row broke out over warnings given to Israeli government before 2023 Hamas attack. Earlier, his office has dismissed the report as “fake news.” Also Read: Egypt warned Netanyahu thrice about Oct 7 Hamas attack but he ignored: Report

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged that Egypt's then-intelligence chief Abbas Kamel visited Israel shortly before the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, but denied meeting him. Netanyahu questioned who Kamel met, as reports of Egyptian warnings before the assault resurfaced.

'Didn’t speak with me': Netanyahu admits Egypt intelligence chief visited Israel before Oct 7 Hamas attack, but declines meeting him

The US Treasury Department on Tuesday (Oct 13) announced penalties exceeding $1.2 billion against Bank of America, accusing the lender of violating anti-money laundering and sanctions laws, including failing to report more than $5 billion in suspicious transactions. The department said some of the transactions raised national security concerns, including activity allegedly linked to Chinese money laundering networks and illicit finance along the US-Mexico border. Bank of America shares fell 2.6 per cent in after-hours trading following the announcement.The penalties include $1.2 billion assessed by the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), alongside a $750 million civil penalty imposed by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), one of the bank’s key regulators.Separately, the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced an $11.6 million settlement over what it described as apparent violations of multiple sanctions programmes covering Iran, Russia, narcotics and global terrorism.“Today’s actions send a clear message that even the biggest financial institutions are not above the law,” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. He added that failures by a major bank to meet its anti-money laundering and sanctions obligations could expose the wider US financial system to significant risks from illicit finance.<h2>Bank of America faces fresh compliance scrutiny</h2>The announcement comes a day before Bank of America is scheduled to report its third-quarter earnings, putting the regulatory action in focus for investors.A bank spokesperson told AFP that the results would include a $1.2 billion charge, reducing net income by around 17 cents per share. The spokesperson said the institution remained committed to addressing concerns raised by regulators. “We will continue to support federal and local law enforcement across thousands of investigations and report hundreds of thousands of suspicious activity reports each year,” the spokesperson said.US regulators have also issued a consent order requiring the bank to work with a third party to identify and report suspicious transactions that had previously gone undetected. The institution must undergo an independent review of its suspicious-activity monitoring systems and other due-diligence procedures.<h2>Regulators cite earlier order and continued violations</h2>Bank of America was already subject to a December 2024 cease-and-desist order directing it to address deficiencies in its anti-money laundering programme and compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act. The Treasury said the bank failed to give compliance the required priority despite agreeing to the earlier order.OCC Comptroller Jonathan Gould described the violations as “egregious and continued” and said the $750 million civil penalty was the largest the regulator had imposed on a bank.

The US Treasury has announced more than $1.2 billion in penalties against Bank of America over alleged anti-money laundering and sanctions violations. Regulators say the bank failed to report more than $5 billion in suspicious transactions.


The US Treasury Department on Tuesday (Oct 13) announced penalties exceeding $1.2 billion against Bank of America, accusing the lender of violating anti-money laundering and sanctions laws, including failing to report more than $5 billion in suspicious transactions. The department said some of the transactions raised national security concerns, including activity allegedly linked to Chinese money laundering networks and illicit finance along the US-Mexico border. Bank of America shares fell 2.6 per cent in after-hours trading following the announcement. The penalties include $1.2 billion assessed by the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), alongside a $750 million civil penalty imposed by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), one of the bank’s key regulators. Separately, the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced an $11.6 million settlement over what it described as apparent violations of multiple sanctions programmes covering Iran, Russia, narcotics and global terrorism. “Today’s actions send a clear message that even the biggest financial institutions are not above the law,” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. He added that failures by a major bank to meet its anti-money laundering and sanctions obligations could expose the wider US financial system to significant risks from illicit finance. Bank of America faces fresh compliance scrutiny The announcement comes a day before Bank of America is scheduled to report its third-quarter earnings, putting the regulatory action in focus for investors. A bank spokesperson told AFP that the results would include a $1.2 billion charge, reducing net income by around 17 cents per share. The spokesperson said the institution remained committed to addressing concerns raised by regulators. “We will continue to support federal and local law enforcement across thousands of investigations and report hundreds of thousands of suspicious activity reports each year,” the spokesperson said. US regulators have also issued a consent order requiring the bank to work with a third party to identify and report suspicious transactions that had previously gone undetected. The institution must undergo an independent review of its suspicious-activity monitoring systems and other due-diligence procedures. Regulators cite earlier order and continued violations Bank of America was already subject to a December 2024 cease-and-desist order directing it to address deficiencies in its anti-money laundering programme and compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act. The Treasury said the bank failed to give compliance the required priority despite agreeing to the earlier order. OCC Comptroller Jonathan Gould described the violations as “egregious and continued” and said the $750 million civil penalty was the largest the regulator had imposed on a bank.

The US Treasury has announced more than $1.2 billion in penalties against Bank of America over alleged anti-money laundering and sanctions violations. Regulators say the bank failed to report more than $5 billion in suspicious transactions.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) questioned Congresswoman Ilhan Omar over a reported revision in her declared net worth, alleging possible financial irregularities. In a post on Truth Social, Trump questioned why the Democrat had reportedly declared a net worth of up to USD 30 million before subsequently saying that the figure was an accounting error and that it was actually USD 100,000. He also questioned whether the original figure had been accurate before being withdrawn, while alleging that Omar may have been unable to explain the source of such wealth. &nbsp;"Why did Ilhan Omar report a Net Worth of up to 30 Million Dollars just a short time ago, and then immediately say, 'Oh, I made a mistake! It’s really $100,000.' Could it be that her highly paid accountant actually reported the money that was stolen from her fraudulent activities in Minnesota?" Trump said. "Would something like that be possible? Do you think the accountant actually gave the right number the first time, 30 Million Dollars, and then she was forced to disavow because she never would have been able to report where that much money came from? She must have freaked out when she saw that money!" he added. Trump also questioned the couple's property and assets, writing, “Where did her house come from, where did her cars come from, and what about her lovely place in Washington, D.C.?” "I didn’t know that Congressmen and women made that kind of money, but I do know her husband, according to information and belief, makes almost nothing, so it couldn’t have come from him," he said. He also asked, "How many people did she illegally bring into our Country from Somalia?" before concluding, "America wants answers, and we want them, NOW!" &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/she-s-a-disaster-trump-attacks-ilhan-omar-at-ohio-rally-calls-abdul-el-sayed-a-jihadist-1791859756329">‘She’s a disaster’: Trump attacks Ilhan Omar at Ohio rally, calls Abdul El-Sayed a ‘jihadist’</a><h2>What was Trump referring to?</h2>According to a report by the New York Post, Omar's husband, Tim Mynett, initially valued his venture capital firm, Rose Lake Capital, and his now-defunct California-based wine business, eStCru, at up to USD 30 million in the congresswoman's 2024 financial disclosure. However, the report said that in Omar's 2025 financial disclosure, Mynett reported no income from his venture capital firm and between USD 200 and USD 1,000 in income from the wine business, which shut down in April.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-will-not-be-silenced-ilhan-omar-alleges-political-intimidation-after-federal-officers-search-her-washington-home-1791835502590">'I will not be silenced': Ilhan Omar alleges political intimidation</a><h2>Search at Ilhan Omar's house</h2>On Oct 12, the Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the search was conducted on Ilhan Omar's house as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. A Justice Department spokesperson said that Homeland Security Investigations “executed a judicially authorized search warrant” as “part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation.” The statement did not specify that the investigation was related to Omar, nor did it provide more information about the search.&nbsp;&nbsp;Omar, a Democratic representative from Minnesota reacted saying “I'm ok.” “Make no mistake: this is an attempt to target political enemies and weaponise federal law enforcement. For ten years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns. This is just the latest escalation in his campaign of political intimidation. I will not be silenced,” she added in a post on X. However, speaking to reporters Monday afternoon, Trump said he had “nothing to do” with the search of Omar’s home.

US President Donald Trump questioned Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's finances after a reported revision in her husband's business valuations, alleging possible irregularities. The remarks came after federal investigators searched Omar's Washington home as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) questioned Congresswoman Ilhan Omar over a reported revision in her declared net worth, alleging possible financial irregularities. In a post on Truth Social, Trump questioned why the Democrat had reportedly declared a net worth of up to USD 30 million before subsequently saying that the figure was an accounting error and that it was actually USD 100,000. He also questioned whether the original figure had been accurate before being withdrawn, while alleging that Omar may have been unable to explain the source of such wealth. "Why did Ilhan Omar report a Net Worth of up to 30 Million Dollars just a short time ago, and then immediately say, 'Oh, I made a mistake! It’s really $100,000.' Could it be that her highly paid accountant actually reported the money that was stolen from her fraudulent activities in Minnesota?" Trump said. "Would something like that be possible? Do you think the accountant actually gave the right number the first time, 30 Million Dollars, and then she was forced to disavow because she never would have been able to report where that much money came from? She must have freaked out when she saw that money!" he added. Trump also questioned the couple's property and assets, writing, “Where did her house come from, where did her cars come from, and what about her lovely place in Washington, D.C.?” "I didn’t know that Congressmen and women made that kind of money, but I do know her husband, according to information and belief, makes almost nothing, so it couldn’t have come from him," he said. He also asked, "How many people did she illegally bring into our Country from Somalia?" before concluding, "America wants answers, and we want them, NOW!" Also Read: ‘She’s a disaster’: Trump attacks Ilhan Omar at Ohio rally, calls Abdul El-Sayed a ‘jihadist’ What was Trump referring to? According to a report by the New York Post, Omar's husband, Tim Mynett, initially valued his venture capital firm, Rose Lake Capital, and his now-defunct California-based wine business, eStCru, at up to USD 30 million in the congresswoman's 2024 financial disclosure. However, the report said that in Omar's 2025 financial disclosure, Mynett reported no income from his venture capital firm and between USD 200 and USD 1,000 in income from the wine business, which shut down in April. Also Read: 'I will not be silenced': Ilhan Omar alleges political intimidation Search at Ilhan Omar's house On Oct 12, the Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the search was conducted on Ilhan Omar's house as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. A Justice Department spokesperson said that Homeland Security Investigations “executed a judicially authorized search warrant” as “part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation.” The statement did not specify that the investigation was related to Omar, nor did it provide more information about the search. Omar, a Democratic representative from Minnesota reacted saying “I'm ok.” “Make no mistake: this is an attempt to target political enemies and weaponise federal law enforcement. For ten years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns. This is just the latest escalation in his campaign of political intimidation. I will not be silenced,” she added in a post on X. However, speaking to reporters Monday afternoon, Trump said he had “nothing to do” with the search of Omar’s home.

US President Donald Trump questioned Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's finances after a reported revision in her husband's business valuations, alleging possible irregularities. The remarks came after federal investigators searched Omar's Washington home as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.

President Donald Trump and his advisers are weighing whether to call off the plans to livestream the execution of Nidal Hasan, the former Army psychiatrist convicted of carrying out the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, according to sources familiar with the discussions cited by CNN. Trump reportedly did not initially know that Hasan was paralysed from the waist down and uses a wheelchair. Two sources familiar with the discussions told CNN that the president was uncertain about the proposed public broadcast after learning more about Hasan’s physical condition.&nbsp;Although Trump strongly supports executing Hasan by firing squad, multiple officials told CNN that he was unaware Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had announced plans to allow the public to watch the execution live. After Hegseth confirmed the Pentagon’s plans in a post on X last Thursday, Trump consulted several advisers and allies about whether the administration should proceed with the broadcast.&nbsp;&nbsp;During those discussions, the president learned that Hasan had been shot in the back by law enforcement during the 2009 Fort Hood attack, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. One source familiar with the discussions said Trump’s understanding of the political and public impact of visual imagery could influence his decision to cancel the livestream. The president has also reportedly considered concerns that broadcasting the execution could provide terrorist groups and foreign adversaries with propaganda material, potentially allowing them to portray Hasan as a martyr, a Trump adviser told CNN.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/don-t-ever-mess-with-nature-trump-s-tiger-attack-post-triggers-social-media-backlash-as-victim-s-family-issues-heartbreaking-tribute-1791939439769">'Don't ever mess with nature!': Trump’s tiger attack post triggers social media backlash as victim's family issues heartbreaking tribute</a>&nbsp;The White House referred CNN to Trump's remarks on Saturday, when he acknowledged that the administration was considering two approaches before making a final decision. “He was vicious. He was violent,” Trump told reporters about Hasan over the weekend. “There are two thoughts: Don’t show it and show it. Because, you know, by showing it, maybe other people won’t be doing what he did. So, I’ll make a decision ultimately. I know what the military would like to do, but we’ll make a decision.”&nbsp;Trump told reporters on Friday that he had not been involved in the decision but indicated that he understood the reasoning behind it. “I understand the decision,” he said, adding that some people want to set an example by livestreaming the execution. Hegseth initially recommended that Hasan be executed by firing squad, and Trump approved the recommendation. Hasan was convicted of killing 13 people and wounding dozens of others in the 2009 Fort Hood shooting in Texas.&nbsp;The execution is scheduled for December 3 at Fort Hood. If carried out, it would mark the US Army’s first execution of a soldier since World War II and its first imposition of the death penalty on an active-duty service member in 65 years. Hasan, a US-born citizen of Palestinian descent, said he targeted soldiers he was scheduled to deploy with to Afghanistan. He said he wanted to protect the Taliban and its leaders from the US military.

Trump weighs canceling the livestream of Nidal Hasan’s execution as the Pentagon reassesses broadcast plans amid bipartisan backlash and propaganda concerns

President Donald Trump and his advisers are weighing whether to call off the plans to livestream the execution of Nidal Hasan, the former Army psychiatrist convicted of carrying out the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, according to sources familiar with the discussions cited by CNN. Trump reportedly did not initially know that Hasan was paralysed from the waist down and uses a wheelchair. Two sources familiar with the discussions told CNN that the president was uncertain about the proposed public broadcast after learning more about Hasan’s physical condition. Although Trump strongly supports executing Hasan by firing squad, multiple officials told CNN that he was unaware Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had announced plans to allow the public to watch the execution live. After Hegseth confirmed the Pentagon’s plans in a post on X last Thursday, Trump consulted several advisers and allies about whether the administration should proceed with the broadcast. During those discussions, the president learned that Hasan had been shot in the back by law enforcement during the 2009 Fort Hood attack, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. One source familiar with the discussions said Trump’s understanding of the political and public impact of visual imagery could influence his decision to cancel the livestream. The president has also reportedly considered concerns that broadcasting the execution could provide terrorist groups and foreign adversaries with propaganda material, potentially allowing them to portray Hasan as a martyr, a Trump adviser told CNN. Also Read: 'Don't ever mess with nature!': Trump’s tiger attack post triggers social media backlash as victim's family issues heartbreaking tribute The White House referred CNN to Trump's remarks on Saturday, when he acknowledged that the administration was considering two approaches before making a final decision. “He was vicious. He was violent,” Trump told reporters about Hasan over the weekend. “There are two thoughts: Don’t show it and show it. Because, you know, by showing it, maybe other people won’t be doing what he did. So, I’ll make a decision ultimately. I know what the military would like to do, but we’ll make a decision.” Trump told reporters on Friday that he had not been involved in the decision but indicated that he understood the reasoning behind it. “I understand the decision,” he said, adding that some people want to set an example by livestreaming the execution. Hegseth initially recommended that Hasan be executed by firing squad, and Trump approved the recommendation. Hasan was convicted of killing 13 people and wounding dozens of others in the 2009 Fort Hood shooting in Texas. The execution is scheduled for December 3 at Fort Hood. If carried out, it would mark the US Army’s first execution of a soldier since World War II and its first imposition of the death penalty on an active-duty service member in 65 years. Hasan, a US-born citizen of Palestinian descent, said he targeted soldiers he was scheduled to deploy with to Afghanistan. He said he wanted to protect the Taliban and its leaders from the US military.

Trump is reconsidering plans to livestream Nidal Hasan’s execution as advisers warn of propaganda risks and concerns over broadcasting the firing squad

US President Donald Trump has sparked widespread backlash after sharing disturbing footage of a fatal tiger attack in Britain on his Truth Social account, prompting criticism on social media as the victim’s family mourns their loss. The 41-second video showed a man being attacked by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster on Saturday. Trump shared the footage on Tuesday with the caption, "Don't ever mess with nature!"&nbsp;The White House's "Rapid Response 47" account subsequently reposted the clip on X. Trump later shared another video featuring apparently AI-generated visuals of people being mauled by big cats, accompanied by tinny synthesizer music. The posts drew criticism from social media users, some of whom questioned the president’s decision to share graphic content involving a fatal incident. One user described the post as “sick.” "I'm a big supporter but not a fan of this post. To each his own," another user wrote. The victim was identified as William Chapman, who died at the scene after entering the tiger enclosure, according to reports by the BBC and statements from police.<h2>William Chapman’s family issues emotional tribute</h2>Chapman’s family has paid tribute to the 23-year-old, describing him as a much-loved young man who had struggled with significant mental health issues for several years. In a statement released on Tuesday evening, the family said Chapman had experienced "significant mental illness" over a number of years and had been prescribed ‘strong medication’.&nbsp;The family stressed that it was for the coroner to determine whether his mental health played a role in the fatal incident and urged the public to respect the investigative process. "William was a bright, warm and engaging young man whom his family dearly loved - and William loved them back," the statement said. His relatives also expressed distress over the circulation of graphic and offensive material related to his death, asking for privacy during an exceptionally difficult period.&nbsp;"The family are utterly devastated by their loss and are struggling to come to terms with what has happened," the statement continued. “The family are hopeful that the relevant authorities will do their upmost to get to the bottom of why our amazing son did what he did.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/marco-rubio-to-visit-india-next-week-focus-on-energy-cooperation-and-strategic-ties-1791933894229">Marco Rubio to visit India next week, focus on energy cooperation and strategic ties</a><h2>Watch the video. Viewer discretion is advised</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">https://t.co/5Rz7TQow2b&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/2110098796856365196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What happened at Yorkshire Wildlife park?</h2>British police responded to reports of a man entering the tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, near Doncaster on Saturday."The tiger subsequently attacked the man, resulting in serious injury," police said in a statement. "Emergency services attended and sadly, despite the best efforts of medical personnel, the man was pronounced dead at the scene," it added. Yorkshire Ambulance Service dispatched two road ambulances and an air ambulance to the park. Mobile phone footage, believed to have been recorded by Chapman, appeared to show the inside of the enclosure as he approached the tiger across a grassy area. The incident led to the evacuation and continued closure of the wildlife park. The City of Doncaster Council has launched a health and safety investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.<h2>Rare Amur tiger will not be euthanised</h2>The tiger involved in the incident, named Altai, is an Amur tiger, an endangered subspecies whose wild population is estimated at around 500. Yorkshire Wildlife Park’s "Land of the Tigers" attraction features a 300-metre raised walkway that allows visitors to observe the animals in an enclosure containing woodland, grassland and a waterfall pool. Park staff have expressed their sympathy for Chapman’s family and confirmed that Altai would remain in the enclosure and would not be euthanised. The decision means the animal will not be put down following the fatal encounter.

Donald Trump faces backlash after sharing a fatal tiger attack video from Yorkshire Wildlife Park as William Chapman’s family pays tribute

US President Donald Trump has sparked widespread backlash after sharing disturbing footage of a fatal tiger attack in Britain on his Truth Social account, prompting criticism on social media as the victim’s family mourns their loss. The 41-second video showed a man being attacked by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster on Saturday. Trump shared the footage on Tuesday with the caption, "Don't ever mess with nature!" The White House's "Rapid Response 47" account subsequently reposted the clip on X. Trump later shared another video featuring apparently AI-generated visuals of people being mauled by big cats, accompanied by tinny synthesizer music. The posts drew criticism from social media users, some of whom questioned the president’s decision to share graphic content involving a fatal incident. One user described the post as “sick.” "I'm a big supporter but not a fan of this post. To each his own," another user wrote. The victim was identified as William Chapman, who died at the scene after entering the tiger enclosure, according to reports by the BBC and statements from police. William Chapman’s family issues emotional tribute Chapman’s family has paid tribute to the 23-year-old, describing him as a much-loved young man who had struggled with significant mental health issues for several years. In a statement released on Tuesday evening, the family said Chapman had experienced "significant mental illness" over a number of years and had been prescribed ‘strong medication’. The family stressed that it was for the coroner to determine whether his mental health played a role in the fatal incident and urged the public to respect the investigative process. "William was a bright, warm and engaging young man whom his family dearly loved - and William loved them back," the statement said. His relatives also expressed distress over the circulation of graphic and offensive material related to his death, asking for privacy during an exceptionally difficult period. "The family are utterly devastated by their loss and are struggling to come to terms with what has happened," the statement continued. “The family are hopeful that the relevant authorities will do their upmost to get to the bottom of why our amazing son did what he did.” Also Read: Marco Rubio to visit India next week, focus on energy cooperation and strategic ties Watch the video. Viewer discretion is advised

Donald Trump faces backlash for sharing a fatal tiger attack video as victim William Chapman’s family pays tribute and calls for privacy

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit India from October 17 to 22 to strengthen bilateral strategic ties, expand energy cooperation and promote commercial investment, the US Department of State announced on Tuesday. During his visit, Rubio is scheduled to travel to Mumbai and Jamnagar, where he will hold discussions with senior government officials and business leaders. The India leg of his tour follows his visit to Samarkand, Uzbekistan, where he will participate in high-level diplomatic meetings with Central Asian nations.&nbsp;“He will meet with senior government officials to strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, exchange views on regional and global dynamics, and discuss prospects for enhanced energy cooperation,” the State Department said. Rubio will also engage with business leaders to explore opportunities for increased investment, trade and economic collaboration between the two countries, the department added.<h2>Marco Rubio’s second India visit since May</h2>The upcoming trip will mark Rubio’s second visit to India since May, when he attended the Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting in New Delhi hosted by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The visit comes amid continued efforts by Washington and New Delhi to deepen their strategic partnership, expand economic engagement and strengthen cooperation on energy and regional security. Discussions are expected to cover bilateral relations, international developments and opportunities to boost commercial ties, with energy cooperation emerging as a key area of interest.<h2>Why is Marco Rubio visiting Jamnagar?</h2>Rubio’s planned visit to Jamnagar is drawing attention because the Gujarat city is home to Reliance Industries’ refinery complex, the world’s largest single-site refining facility. The complex has the capacity to process approximately 1.4 million barrels of crude oil per day, making it a major centre of India’s energy and refining industry. Energy ties between India and the United States have gained prominence amid discussions about investment, trade and expanding cooperation in the global energy sector.&nbsp;In March, US President Donald Trump announced plans for the construction of a new refinery in Brownsville, Texas, describing it as the first US refinery project in 50 years. Trump said the project would involve an investment of USD 300 billion from Reliance Industries. Rubio’s visit to Jamnagar could provide an opportunity for discussions on energy-related investment and broader commercial cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ken-paxton-s-dubai-night-out-with-two-us-fugitives-sparks-political-storm-as-texas-senate-race-tightens-1791932130429">Ken Paxton's Dubai night out with two US fugitives sparks political storm as Texas Senate race tightens</a><h2>Rubio to hold high-level talks in Uzbekistan before India visit</h2>Before travelling to India, Rubio will attend the C5+1 Ministerial meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The diplomatic platform brings together the United States and five Central Asian countries to advance regional cooperation. According to the State Department, the meeting will focus on how strategic engagement can support a more peaceful and prosperous future for the United States and Central Asia. Rubio is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with senior officials from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and the Kyrgyz Republic.<h2>US business delegation to promote trade and investment</h2>More than 200 business leaders will accompany Rubio as part of a US commercial delegation travelling to Central Asia. The delegation aims to strengthen commercial partnerships and identify new investment opportunities across the region.

Marco Rubio will visit India from October 17–22, holding talks on US-India strategic ties, energy cooperation, trade and investment in Mumbai and Jamnagar

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit India from October 17 to 22 to strengthen bilateral strategic ties, expand energy cooperation and promote commercial investment, the US Department of State announced on Tuesday. During his visit, Rubio is scheduled to travel to Mumbai and Jamnagar, where he will hold discussions with senior government officials and business leaders. The India leg of his tour follows his visit to Samarkand, Uzbekistan, where he will participate in high-level diplomatic meetings with Central Asian nations. “He will meet with senior government officials to strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, exchange views on regional and global dynamics, and discuss prospects for enhanced energy cooperation,” the State Department said. Rubio will also engage with business leaders to explore opportunities for increased investment, trade and economic collaboration between the two countries, the department added. Marco Rubio’s second India visit since May The upcoming trip will mark Rubio’s second visit to India since May, when he attended the Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting in New Delhi hosted by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The visit comes amid continued efforts by Washington and New Delhi to deepen their strategic partnership, expand economic engagement and strengthen cooperation on energy and regional security. Discussions are expected to cover bilateral relations, international developments and opportunities to boost commercial ties, with energy cooperation emerging as a key area of interest. Why is Marco Rubio visiting Jamnagar? Rubio’s planned visit to Jamnagar is drawing attention because the Gujarat city is home to Reliance Industries’ refinery complex, the world’s largest single-site refining facility. The complex has the capacity to process approximately 1.4 million barrels of crude oil per day, making it a major centre of India’s energy and refining industry. Energy ties between India and the United States have gained prominence amid discussions about investment, trade and expanding cooperation in the global energy sector. In March, US President Donald Trump announced plans for the construction of a new refinery in Brownsville, Texas, describing it as the first US refinery project in 50 years. Trump said the project would involve an investment of USD 300 billion from Reliance Industries. Rubio’s visit to Jamnagar could provide an opportunity for discussions on energy-related investment and broader commercial cooperation between the two countries. Also Read: Ken Paxton's Dubai night out with two US fugitives sparks political storm as Texas Senate race tightens Rubio to hold high-level talks in Uzbekistan before India visit Before travelling to India, Rubio will attend the C5+1 Ministerial meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The diplomatic platform brings together the United States and five Central Asian countries to advance regional cooperation. According to the State Department, the meeting will focus on how strategic engagement can support a more peaceful and prosperous future for the United States and Central Asia. Rubio is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with senior officials from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and the Kyrgyz Republic. US business delegation to promote trade and investment More than 200 business leaders will accompany Rubio as part of a US commercial delegation travelling to Central Asia. The delegation aims to strengthen commercial partnerships and identify new investment opportunities across the region.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit India October 17–22 to strengthen strategic ties, boost energy cooperation and promote trade and investment

President Donald Trump’s decision to endorse Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over incumbent Republican Sen. John Cornyn is facing renewed scrutiny as fresh revelations threaten to complicate the upcoming midterm elections.According to people familiar with the conversations, Trump was warned this spring that damaging information about Paxton could emerge before he decided to back the controversial attorney general. Trump reportedly dismissed the concerns, suggesting that negative material about Democratic nominee James Talarico would also surface.&nbsp;Trump ultimately stood by Paxton, helping him secure victory in the Republican primary runoff in May. However, the endorsement is increasingly appearing to be a major political gamble as the November 3 election approaches. Despite Paxton’s attempts to portray Talarico as a far-left candidate, the Democrat has consistently maintained a narrow lead in polls. The trend has raised the possibility of a historic Democratic victory in Texas, where no Democrat has won a statewide election since 1994. Now, another controversy surrounding Paxton is drawing attention: a previously unreported New Year’s Eve celebration in Dubai, where he allegedly spent the evening with his girlfriend and two Americans facing federal criminal charges in the United States.<h2>Ken Paxton’s Dubai celebration raises eyebrows</h2>As fireworks illuminated the Burj Khalifa to welcome 2025, Paxton and his girlfriend, Tracy Duhon, watched the celebrations from the balcony of a luxury high-rise surrounded by other guests. The gathering was documented in a video viewed by The Wall Street Journal. Details about the event appeared in court filings and were confirmed by people familiar with the matter. Among the attendees were Anosh Ahmed and Sameer Suhail, two Americans who had been indicted months earlier on federal healthcare-fraud charges but had not returned to the United States, according to court records and people familiar with the gathering. Ahmed, a healthcare executive, had contributed $190,000 to Paxton, including a $25,000 donation made days after his indictment, campaign-finance records show.<h2>Healthcare fraud charges against Dubai party guests</h2>Ahmed and Suhail were indicted in federal court in Illinois in 2024 over allegations that they embezzled $15 million from a Chicago hospital where Ahmed served as chief financial officer. Ahmed, a businessman with interests in Texas, was subsequently charged in a separate and much larger alleged scheme involving at least $195 million in government payments for fraudulent COVID-19 testing. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.&nbsp;Both men have since returned to the United States to face the allegations. Ahmed is in custody, while his attorneys have argued in court filings that he was overseas when the initial indictment was issued and that family health issues delayed his return. Suhail’s attorney, Adam Sheppard, said civil matters in Dubai prevented his client from traveling after the indictment. He added that Suhail returned voluntarily once those issues were resolved. The video documenting the New Year’s Eve gathering was referenced in a filing in a Texas civil court case in which the person who recorded the event is a defendant.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-strikes-yemen-oil-sites-as-houthi-missiles-target-riyadh-and-aramco-1791927799375">Saudi Arabia strikes Yemen oil sites as Houthi missiles target Riyadh; 'limited fire' breaks out at Aramco</a><h2>Paxton’s long history of political controversies</h2>Despite years of investigations and allegations, Paxton has repeatedly survived political challenges. The 63-year-old attorney general has won re-election twice while securities-fraud charges remained pending against him. In 2020, eight of his deputies reported him to law enforcement, accusing him of using his office to benefit a major donor. The allegations prompted an FBI investigation.&nbsp;The controversy eventually led Republican lawmakers in the Texas House to impeach Paxton in 2023 on abuse-of-office allegations, which he denied. The Texas Senate acquitted him, allowing him to return to office. His personal life has also drawn attention. Last year, his wife of 38 years filed for divorce, citing adultery, following public reports of two alleged affairs, including one involving Duhon.&nbsp;Paxton’s political allies argue that the controversies have failed to weaken his support among Republican voters and insist that his standing with the MAGA movement could carry him to victory in November. In a statement, Paxton senior adviser Nick Maddux did not directly address the Dubai trip. “Like President Trump, Ken Paxton has been politically persecuted for years, and every time, voters have seen through it and sent him back to office because they know he has always fought for Texas,” Maddux said.<h2>Can James Talarico turn controversy into a historic win?</h2>With the Texas Senate race drawing national attention, Paxton’s latest controversy could become another vulnerability for Republicans seeking to retain the seat. Talarico’s narrow polling advantage has intensified speculation about whether Democrats can break their decades-long statewide losing streak in Texas. However, Paxton’s history of surviving scandals suggests that Republican support could remain resilient despite the latest revelations.&nbsp;Kent Schaffer, a special prosecutor who filed charges against Paxton in 2015, expressed frustration over the attorney general’s continued political survival. “It’s just amazing to me that he’s never been held accountable,” Schaffer said.

Ken Paxton faces renewed scrutiny over a Dubai party with two indicted Americans as James Talarico gains ground in the Texas Senate race

President Donald Trump’s decision to endorse Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over incumbent Republican Sen. John Cornyn is facing renewed scrutiny as fresh revelations threaten to complicate the upcoming midterm elections. According to people familiar with the conversations, Trump was warned this spring that damaging information about Paxton could emerge before he decided to back the controversial attorney general. Trump reportedly dismissed the concerns, suggesting that negative material about Democratic nominee James Talarico would also surface. Trump ultimately stood by Paxton, helping him secure victory in the Republican primary runoff in May. However, the endorsement is increasingly appearing to be a major political gamble as the November 3 election approaches. Despite Paxton’s attempts to portray Talarico as a far-left candidate, the Democrat has consistently maintained a narrow lead in polls. The trend has raised the possibility of a historic Democratic victory in Texas, where no Democrat has won a statewide election since 1994. Now, another controversy surrounding Paxton is drawing attention: a previously unreported New Year’s Eve celebration in Dubai, where he allegedly spent the evening with his girlfriend and two Americans facing federal criminal charges in the United States. Ken Paxton’s Dubai celebration raises eyebrows As fireworks illuminated the Burj Khalifa to welcome 2025, Paxton and his girlfriend, Tracy Duhon, watched the celebrations from the balcony of a luxury high-rise surrounded by other guests. The gathering was documented in a video viewed by The Wall Street Journal. Details about the event appeared in court filings and were confirmed by people familiar with the matter. Among the attendees were Anosh Ahmed and Sameer Suhail, two Americans who had been indicted months earlier on federal healthcare-fraud charges but had not returned to the United States, according to court records and people familiar with the gathering. Ahmed, a healthcare executive, had contributed $190,000 to Paxton, including a $25,000 donation made days after his indictment, campaign-finance records show. Healthcare fraud charges against Dubai party guests Ahmed and Suhail were indicted in federal court in Illinois in 2024 over allegations that they embezzled $15 million from a Chicago hospital where Ahmed served as chief financial officer. Ahmed, a businessman with interests in Texas, was subsequently charged in a separate and much larger alleged scheme involving at least $195 million in government payments for fraudulent COVID-19 testing. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Both men have since returned to the United States to face the allegations. Ahmed is in custody, while his attorneys have argued in court filings that he was overseas when the initial indictment was issued and that family health issues delayed his return. Suhail’s attorney, Adam Sheppard, said civil matters in Dubai prevented his client from traveling after the indictment. He added that Suhail returned voluntarily once those issues were resolved. The video documenting the New Year’s Eve gathering was referenced in a filing in a Texas civil court case in which the person who recorded the event is a defendant. Also Read: Saudi Arabia strikes Yemen oil sites as Houthi missiles target Riyadh; 'limited fire' breaks out at Aramco Paxton’s long history of political controversies Despite years of investigations and allegations, Paxton has repeatedly survived political challenges. The 63-year-old attorney general has won re-election twice while securities-fraud charges remained pending against him. In 2020, eight of his deputies reported him to law enforcement, accusing him of using his office to benefit a major donor. The allegations prompted an FBI investigation. The controversy eventually led Republican lawmakers in the Texas House to impeach Paxton in 2023 on abuse-of-office allegations, which he denied. The Texas Senate acquitted him, allowing him to return to office. His personal life has also drawn attention. Last year, his wife of 38 years filed for divorce, citing adultery, following public reports of two alleged affairs, including one involving Duhon. Paxton’s political allies argue that the controversies have failed to weaken his support among Republican voters and insist that his standing with the MAGA movement could carry him to victory in November. In a statement, Paxton senior adviser Nick Maddux did not directly address the Dubai trip. “Like President Trump, Ken Paxton has been politically persecuted for years, and every time, voters have seen through it and sent him back to office because they know he has always fought for Texas,” Maddux said. Can James Talarico turn controversy into a historic win? With the Texas Senate race drawing national attention, Paxton’s latest controversy could become another vulnerability for Republicans seeking to retain the seat. Talarico’s narrow polling advantage has intensified speculation about whether Democrats can break their decades-long statewide losing streak in Texas. However, Paxton’s history of surviving scandals suggests that Republican support could remain resilient despite the latest revelations. Kent Schaffer, a special prosecutor who filed charges against Paxton in 2015, expressed frustration over the attorney general’s continued political survival. “It’s just amazing to me that he’s never been held accountable,” Schaffer said.

Ken Paxton faces fresh scrutiny over a Dubai party with two US fugitives as Democrat James Talarico challenges Republicans in the Texas Senate race

Saudi Arabia’s Saudi-led coalition launched strikes against oil facilities across western Yemen, including the capital, Sanaa, following a deadly Houthi attack on Saudi territory that has sharply escalated the conflict. The strikes took place on Tuesday as explosions were subsequently reported in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, and near an Aramco facility in eastern Saudi Arabia, according to witnesses and journalists cited by AFP. The coalition said it had intercepted several Houthi missiles targeting the kingdom, including Riyadh. Debris reportedly fell in a residential area in Dhahran, home to the headquarters of Saudi oil giant Aramco.&nbsp;Coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki said the attacks in Sanaa and the western provinces of Dhamar and Saada targeted facilities used to supply the war effort by the Houthis to threaten the kingdom, Yemen, the southern Red Sea and waterways. Shortly afterwards, a powerful explosion was heard in Riyadh. Residents also received a phone alert warning that the city of Riyadh is facing a hostile aerial threat. A witness walking along a major avenue in the Saudi capital told AFP he saw a projectile cutting across the sky above a shopping mall. He said it left a yellowish trail of light followed by a trail of smoke. Then, we heard an explosion. "People were calm; no one was speaking. We were scared and all looking up at the sky," he added, requesting anonymity.&nbsp;The coalition subsequently targeted a Yemen Petroleum Company facility on the outskirts of the capital. An AFP correspondent in Sanaa reported an explosion, while the Houthi-affiliated Al-Masirah television channel issued a breaking news alert describing the attack as ‘Saudi aggression’.<h2>Saudi Arabia issues warning over Red Sea security</h2>The latest exchange of attacks has heightened concerns about the security of Saudi Arabia’s critical infrastructure and major shipping routes. A strike on Riyadh’s international airport on Saturday reportedly killed 13 people and forced operations to be suspended, marking the deadliest attack on Saudi territory since 2015, according to the report.Saudi Arabia’s cabinet, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, issued a strong warning during a meeting on Tuesday. The government said it will not allow its security or freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait to be threatened.&nbsp;Meanwhile, fears of fuel shortages prompted residents in Sanaa to queue outside petrol stations after the coalition’s evacuation warning. The Houthis had previously threatened to target Riyadh’s international airport, a refinery and an Aramco facility in Dammam if the coalition proceeded with its planned strikes. The group also urged civilians to stay away from the locations. Several countries have issued travel advisories for their citizens in Saudi Arabia. France was the latest to advise its nationals to avoid Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam airports.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-employee-arrested-by-fbi-after-allegedly-hiding-recording-device-in-office-1791926556119">OpenAI employee arrested by FBI after allegedly hiding recording device in office</a><h2>Saudi economy faces growing pressure</h2>The intensifying conflict is adding to the economic challenges facing Saudi Arabia, which has already been affected by disruptions to regional energy supplies and shipping. Traffic in Riyadh, usually notorious for heavy congestion, was noticeably lighter this week. Authorities introduced remote learning for schools and work-from-home arrangements for some businesses amid heightened security concerns.&nbsp;The International Monetary Fund said on Tuesday that Saudi Arabia’s gross domestic product was expected to contract by 3.3 per cent this year, with the broader regional outlook also affected by Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The kingdom had already faced economic headwinds following the disruption of shipping through the strategic waterway after the Middle East war began in February, when the United States and Israel attacked Iran.&nbsp;The resumption of fighting in Yemen in July has added another source of instability, bringing the conflict closer to Saudi territory and threatening critical infrastructure. Houthi attacks have also targeted oil tankers in the Red Sea, a strategically important route that Saudi Arabia uses as an alternative for exporting crude oil when access through the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted.<h2>Trump weighs possible US involvement</h2>The attack on Riyadh airport has raised the prospect of deeper US involvement in the conflict. US President Donald Trump said he was considering joining Saudi strikes against the Houthis following the deadly attack. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote that the Houthis are behaving very badly, accusing the group of acting probably at the behest of Iran. "I'll be there after the elections, and I will never forget!" he wrote, referring to next month’s midterm elections. The statement prompted a warning from the Houthis against any American military intervention. Mohammed Al Bukhaiti, a member of the group’s political bureau, told AFP that the Houthis would target American interests in the region if Washington intervened. Bukhaiti said the campaign against Saudi targets was intended to send a message to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that he can no longer wage aggression against Yemen from a safe position.<h2>Aramco building targeted in Dhahran, limited fire reported</h2>Saudi Arabia’s Energy Ministry said on Wednesday that a ‘limited fire’ broke out at an administrative building belonging to oil giant Saudi Aramco in Dhahran, in the eastern province’s Dammam metropolitan area, after the facility was targeted on Tuesday evening. In a statement published on X, a ministry official said an administrative building belonging to Saudi Aramco in the city of Dhahran, Eastern Province, was targeted, resulting in a limited fire. Authorities responded to the incident and implemented the necessary measures, the ministry said. The statement added that no injuries or fatalities had been reported following the incident.

Saudi Arabia strikes Yemen oil facilities after deadly Houthi attacks as explosions rock Riyadh, Aramco faces threats and Trump weighs US involvement

Saudi Arabia’s Saudi-led coalition launched strikes against oil facilities across western Yemen, including the capital, Sanaa, following a deadly Houthi attack on Saudi territory that has sharply escalated the conflict. The strikes took place on Tuesday as explosions were subsequently reported in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, and near an Aramco facility in eastern Saudi Arabia, according to witnesses and journalists cited by AFP. The coalition said it had intercepted several Houthi missiles targeting the kingdom, including Riyadh. Debris reportedly fell in a residential area in Dhahran, home to the headquarters of Saudi oil giant Aramco. Coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki said the attacks in Sanaa and the western provinces of Dhamar and Saada targeted facilities used to supply the war effort by the Houthis to threaten the kingdom, Yemen, the southern Red Sea and waterways. Shortly afterwards, a powerful explosion was heard in Riyadh. Residents also received a phone alert warning that the city of Riyadh is facing a hostile aerial threat. A witness walking along a major avenue in the Saudi capital told AFP he saw a projectile cutting across the sky above a shopping mall. He said it left a yellowish trail of light followed by a trail of smoke. Then, we heard an explosion. "People were calm; no one was speaking. We were scared and all looking up at the sky," he added, requesting anonymity. The coalition subsequently targeted a Yemen Petroleum Company facility on the outskirts of the capital. An AFP correspondent in Sanaa reported an explosion, while the Houthi-affiliated Al-Masirah television channel issued a breaking news alert describing the attack as ‘Saudi aggression’. Saudi Arabia issues warning over Red Sea security The latest exchange of attacks has heightened concerns about the security of Saudi Arabia’s critical infrastructure and major shipping routes. A strike on Riyadh’s international airport on Saturday reportedly killed 13 people and forced operations to be suspended, marking the deadliest attack on Saudi territory since 2015, according to the report. Saudi Arabia’s cabinet, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, issued a strong warning during a meeting on Tuesday. The government said it will not allow its security or freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait to be threatened. Meanwhile, fears of fuel shortages prompted residents in Sanaa to queue outside petrol stations after the coalition’s evacuation warning. The Houthis had previously threatened to target Riyadh’s international airport, a refinery and an Aramco facility in Dammam if the coalition proceeded with its planned strikes. The group also urged civilians to stay away from the locations. Several countries have issued travel advisories for their citizens in Saudi Arabia. France was the latest to advise its nationals to avoid Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam airports. Also Read: OpenAI employee arrested by FBI after allegedly hiding recording device in office Saudi economy faces growing pressure The intensifying conflict is adding to the economic challenges facing Saudi Arabia, which has already been affected by disruptions to regional energy supplies and shipping. Traffic in Riyadh, usually notorious for heavy congestion, was noticeably lighter this week. Authorities introduced remote learning for schools and work-from-home arrangements for some businesses amid heightened security concerns. The International Monetary Fund said on Tuesday that Saudi Arabia’s gross domestic product was expected to contract by 3.3 per cent this year, with the broader regional outlook also affected by Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The kingdom had already faced economic headwinds following the disruption of shipping through the strategic waterway after the Middle East war began in February, when the United States and Israel attacked Iran. The resumption of fighting in Yemen in July has added another source of instability, bringing the conflict closer to Saudi territory and threatening critical infrastructure. Houthi attacks have also targeted oil tankers in the Red Sea, a strategically important route that Saudi Arabia uses as an alternative for exporting crude oil when access through the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted. Trump weighs possible US involvement The attack on Riyadh airport has raised the prospect of deeper US involvement in the conflict. US President Donald Trump said he was considering joining Saudi strikes against the Houthis following the deadly attack. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote that the Houthis are behaving very badly, accusing the group of acting probably at the behest of Iran. "I'll be there after the elections, and I will never forget!" he wrote, referring to next month’s midterm elections. The statement prompted a warning from the Houthis against any American military intervention. Mohammed Al Bukhaiti, a member of the group’s political bureau, told AFP that the Houthis would target American interests in the region if Washington intervened. Bukhaiti said the campaign against Saudi targets was intended to send a message to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that he can no longer wage aggression against Yemen from a safe position. Aramco building targeted in Dhahran, limited fire reported Saudi Arabia’s Energy Ministry said on Wednesday that a ‘limited fire’ broke out at an administrative building belonging to oil giant Saudi Aramco in Dhahran, in the eastern province’s Dammam metropolitan area, after the facility was targeted on Tuesday evening. In a statement published on X, a ministry official said an administrative building belonging to Saudi Aramco in the city of Dhahran, Eastern Province, was targeted, resulting in a limited fire. Authorities responded to the incident and implemented the necessary measures, the ministry said. The statement added that no injuries or fatalities had been reported following the incident.

Saudi strikes hit Houthi-linked oil sites in Yemen as missile threats and explosions in Riyadh raise fears of a wider Middle East conflict

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