With no end to the war in sight, Ukraine's army is struggling to find enough soldiers. A controversial mobilisation bill -- designed to make it easier to draft troops and give those serving respite -- has triggered a bitter debate over Kyiv's recruitment policy. Will Ukraine find the next wave of troops?

Russia-Ukraine war | Ukrainian troops' angry push for new recruits

<p>Myanmar's military service on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the enforcement of the People's Military Service Law under which all men aged 18-35 and women aged 18-27 are supposed to serve a minimum of two years in the military. This decision comes as the junta faces continued resistance to its 2021 coup, which has plunged the nation into a state of unrest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move is further set to intensify junta's grip on power.</p>

<p>While junta's statement did not provide intricate details, it added that the junta's defence ministry would soon release essential bylaws, procedures, announcements, orders, notifications, and instructions related to the implementation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-suspends-free-movement-of-people-with-myanmar-over-demography-concerns-688170">India suspends Free Movement Regime with Myanmar over demography concerns</a></strong></p>

<p>The junta "issued the notification of the effectiveness of People's Military Service Law starting from February 10th, 2024," the junta's information team said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Myanmar's conscription law?</strong></h2>

<p>The controversial law, originally formulated by a previous junta in 2010, was never activated until now. According to its provisions, during a state of emergency, the terms of military service can be extended up to five years, and individuals failing to comply with summons may face imprisonment for the same period.</p>

<p>The military junta declared a state of emergency when it seized power in 2021, a situation that has persisted, with the army recently extending it for an additional six months.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India scraps free movement regime with Myanmar to secure border</strong></p>

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<p>This move has drawn widespread criticism, as it not only solidifies the junta's authority but also raises concerns about the potential abuse of power and violation of human rights.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>As Myanmar grapples with ongoing turmoil, marked by pro-democracy protests evolving into armed resistance, the junta's imposition of compulsory military service adds another layer of complexity to the nation's fraught political landscape.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The international community closely watches these developments, expressing apprehension about the implications for the people of Myanmar and their struggle for democratic governance.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Myanmar's military service on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the enforcement of the People's Military Service Law under which all men aged 18-35 and women aged 18-27 are supposed to serve a minimum of two years in the military.

Myanmar's military service on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the enforcement of the People's Military Service Law under which all men aged 18-35 and women aged 18-27 are supposed to serve a minimum of two years in the military. This decision comes as the junta faces continued resistance to its 2021 coup, which has plunged the nation into a state of unrest. The move is further set to intensify junta's grip on power. While junta's statement did not provide intricate details, it added that the junta's defence ministry would soon release essential bylaws, procedures, announcements, orders, notifications, and instructions related to the implementation. Also read | India suspends Free Movement Regime with Myanmar over demography concerns The junta "issued the notification of the effectiveness of People's Military Service Law starting from February 10th, 2024," the junta's information team said in a statement. What is Myanmar's conscription law? The controversial law, originally formulated by a previous junta in 2010, was never activated until now. According to its provisions, during a state of emergency, the terms of military service can be extended up to five years, and individuals failing to comply with summons may face imprisonment for the same period. The military junta declared a state of emergency when it seized power in 2021, a situation that has persisted, with the army recently extending it for an additional six months. Also watch | India scraps free movement regime with Myanmar to secure border × This move has drawn widespread criticism, as it not only solidifies the junta's authority but also raises concerns about the potential abuse of power and violation of human rights. What does it mean? As Myanmar grapples with ongoing turmoil, marked by pro-democracy protests evolving into armed resistance, the junta's imposition of compulsory military service adds another layer of complexity to the nation's fraught political landscape. The international community closely watches these developments, expressing apprehension about the implications for the people of Myanmar and their struggle for democratic governance. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar: All men and women of eligible age now required to serve in army

Myanmar's Junta has begun enforcing conscription in the country. As for the latest announcement, the military now can summon all men aged 18 to 25 and women aged between 18 to 27 for at least two years.

Myanmar Junta enforces complusory military service for 2 years

The Myanmar Junta is facing the toughest challenge to its authority since seizing power in a February 2021 coup. A coalition of three armed ethnic minority groups called the Brotherhood Alliance, have made significant gains in the north, thereby galvanizing other opponents of the Junta. Increasingly losing ground, the military has stepped up its air assaults, with civilians frequently at the receiving end. Since the 2021 coup, more than 4,400 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent. United Nations estimates about 2.3 million have been displaced by the violence so far. On the eve of the coup's third anniversary, Myanmar's military rulers extended a state of emergency, in place since the 2021 coup, by another six months, once again delaying the promised elections. While announcing the extension of the state of emergency, Myanmar army chief, Min Aung Hlaing, pledged to crush all opposition to the military rule.

Myanmar army chief pledges to crush all opposition

Families of Nepalese citizens recruited by the Russian army to fight in Ukraine staged protests outside the Russian embassy in Nepal and demanded repatriation of the bodies of their loved ones who had died in the conflict. They also demanded the safe return of the people still serving in the Russian Army.

Nepal government alarmed by citizens recruited in Russian Army

Russian mercenaries are strengthening their presence in Africa. The deployment of the Kremlin's private Army signals a strategic shift replacing the notorious Wagner group and expanding Moscow's influence in the continent.

Russia's Africa Corps: The Wagner group's successor

India's 75th Republic Day was an ode to the Women of India. Women took the lead in military contingents and tableaus at the parade. In a historic first, the all-women tri-service contingent took centre-stage.

Gravitas | Indian Republic Day: All-Women Contingent of Army, IAF, Navy show military prowess

<p lang="en-US">Nepal called back hundreds of Nepali nationals who were recruited by Russia in its army and also demanded repatriation of the bodies of those who gave their lives in the war, said Nepal’s top diplomat on Thursday (Jan 25).<br />
<br />
Speaking with The Associated Press, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud said that it is estimated that more than 200 Nepali nationals have been recruited by the Russian army to fight against Ukraine and at least 14 of them have been killed so far.<br />
<br />
“We have asked Russia to immediately stop the recruitment of Nepali nationals in their army, immediately return those who are already serving in the army, repatriate the bodies of those killed, and treat and return those who were wounded in the fighting,” said Saud.<br />
<br />
Saud added that Nepal has been seeking monetary compensation for the families of those Nepalis who died in the war with Russia.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-accuses-russia-of-playing-with-lives-in-deadly-plane-crash-calls-for-international-inquiry-683529">Zelensky accuses Russia of 'playing with lives' in deadly plane crash, calls for international inquiry</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">Among the 14 Nepali nationals who have been confirmed to have died in the war, Russia said that it has been in possession of 12 bodies. Most Nepalis want their deceased relatives' dead body be returned so that they can be cremated with religious rituals.<br />
<br />
“We have information that five of our citizens who fought on behalf of the Russians are being held captive by the Ukraine side. We are asking the Russian side to take initiatives to get them freed,” said Saud.<br />
<br />
No comment has been made by Russian officials on the foreign nationals' recruitment for the military service in Ukraine, however, media reports have suggested that not only Nepal, people have also been recruited into the Russian military from Cuba.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Nepal bans citizens from travelling to Ukraine, Russia</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Russian law permits foreign nationals to be recruited&nbsp;into its army after signing a contract with the Defence Ministry. The Cuban authorities in September arrested 17 people, who were connected with what they called a network for the recruitment of Cuban nationals to fight for Russia against Ukraine.<br />
<br />
Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this month signed a decree which made it easier for foreigners who are enlisted in the country’s military to get Russian citizenship. The step was taken at a time when Moscow has been trying to replenish its army troops in Ukraine through different ways, which include the recruitment of migrants.<br />
<br />
It is also believed that Ukraine has hired some Nepalis to fight as soldiers, however, Saud said he did not have more information on this.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russian military plane crash: Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for an international probe</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">The government of Nepal has placed a ban on its citizens from travelling to Ukraine or Russia for employment, stating that the Russian army has recruited many people to fight in the conflict in Ukraine.<br />
<br />
Saud had held talks with Russian officials earlier this month, on the sidelines of the Non-Aligned Movement conference in Uganda and spoke about the issues.<br />
<br />
“We have clearly conveyed to them that our citizens are not allowed to be recruited in the army and to immediately send them back,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nepal called back hundreds of Nepali nationals who were recruited by Russia in its army and also demanded repatriation of the bodies of those who gave their lives in the war, said Nepal’s top diplomat on Thursday (Jan 25).

Nepal called back hundreds of Nepali nationals who were recruited by Russia in its army and also demanded repatriation of the bodies of those who gave their lives in the war, said Nepal’s top diplomat on Thursday (Jan 25). Speaking with The Associated Press, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud said that it is estimated that more than 200 Nepali nationals have been recruited by the Russian army to fight against Ukraine and at least 14 of them have been killed so far. “We have asked Russia to immediately stop the recruitment of Nepali nationals in their army, immediately return those who are already serving in the army, repatriate the bodies of those killed, and treat and return those who were wounded in the fighting,” said Saud. Saud added that Nepal has been seeking monetary compensation for the families of those Nepalis who died in the war with Russia. Also read: Zelensky accuses Russia of 'playing with lives' in deadly plane crash, calls for international inquiry Among the 14 Nepali nationals who have been confirmed to have died in the war, Russia said that it has been in possession of 12 bodies. Most Nepalis want their deceased relatives' dead body be returned so that they can be cremated with religious rituals. “We have information that five of our citizens who fought on behalf of the Russians are being held captive by the Ukraine side. We are asking the Russian side to take initiatives to get them freed,” said Saud. No comment has been made by Russian officials on the foreign nationals' recruitment for the military service in Ukraine, however, media reports have suggested that not only Nepal, people have also been recruited into the Russian military from Cuba. Nepal bans citizens from travelling to Ukraine, Russia Russian law permits foreign nationals to be recruited into its army after signing a contract with the Defence Ministry. The Cuban authorities in September arrested 17 people, who were connected with what they called a network for the recruitment of Cuban nationals to fight for Russia against Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this month signed a decree which made it easier for foreigners who are enlisted in the country’s military to get Russian citizenship. The step was taken at a time when Moscow has been trying to replenish its army troops in Ukraine through different ways, which include the recruitment of migrants. It is also believed that Ukraine has hired some Nepalis to fight as soldiers, however, Saud said he did not have more information on this. Watch: Russian military plane crash: Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for an international probe The government of Nepal has placed a ban on its citizens from travelling to Ukraine or Russia for employment, stating that the Russian army has recruited many people to fight in the conflict in Ukraine. Saud had held talks with Russian officials earlier this month, on the sidelines of the Non-Aligned Movement conference in Uganda and spoke about the issues. “We have clearly conveyed to them that our citizens are not allowed to be recruited in the army and to immediately send them back,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Nepal calls back its citizens recruited in Russian Army to fight against Ukraine

The British Army's top official alerted the nation. General Patrick Sanders asked citizens to be ready to serve in the military in the event of a war with Russia as Britain has limited military capacity to manage such a confrontation independently. He called for Britain to train a “citizen army” ready for a land war.

Why did British Army Chief ask citizens to be ready to fight the war against Russia?

The British military is currently experiencing its lowest number of active-duty personnel. According to a report, the size of the UK Army is to be reduced to 72,000 soldiers by 2026.

British Army will have less than 72,000 personnel by 2026: Report

The British military is currently experiencing its lowest number of active-duty personnel. According to a report, the size of the UK army is to be reduced to 72,000 soldiers by 2026. This decision forms a key part of the “future soldier” strategy, targeting a comprehensive force of over 100,000, which will include 30,100 army reserve personnel. WION's Eric Njoka speaks to Prof. David Dunn, a security and defense expert and also the professor of international politics, at the university of Birmingham.

British army is reducing its personnel, here's why

Global firepower has released the latest rankings for the world's most powerful militaries. Which country ranks first? Which country has the world's weakest military? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Which is the world's most powerful military?

Ahead of India's Army day on January 15th the Indian chief of Army staff General Manoj Pande has called the security situation on the northern border stable but sensitive addressing an annual press conference. The Army Chief said in Jammu and Kashmir infiltration attempts continue but are being constantly thwarted.

Indian Army Chief Manoj Pande's annual press conference

<p>For about two years, says 24-year-old Yan, a former Myanmar police officer, he risked his life pretending to serve the military junta while secretly spying for the armed resistance.</p>

<p>“I freed myself from unfair orders,” he told <em>Reuters </em>from a room in a town near the Myanmar border where he said he was taking refuge after fleeing the country in April. Yan declined to give his full name because of the threat to his life.<br />
&nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
Myanmar's junta is facing the fiercest threat to its power since seizing control in a 2021 coup as it battles an unprecedented alliance of opponents while weakened by some internal dissent and defections.</p>

<p>The junta did not respond to requests for comment by <em>Reuters</em>. It has acknowledged some loss of control.<br />
<br />
The junta has not commented on spies within its ranks, but pro-military social media channels have exposed soldiers who appear sympathetic to the rebels.</p>

<p>Opposition groups said it was difficult to determine how many members of the security forces supplied information to the resistance, and their number was likely small given the risk, but they play a crucial role.</p>

<p>They have supplied intelligence, including about the transportation of military supplies, that has helped opposition groups plan attacks, a spokesperson for People’s Goal, a group that supports defectors, told Reuters.</p>

<p>“We have received information which has saved lives,” the spokesperson said, referring to tip-offs about impending attacks or air strikes.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drop-bombs-retaking-myanmar-sky-675089"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;'Drop Bombs' retaking Myanmar sky</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Watermelons</strong></h2>

<p>Yan, who joined the police force in late 2020, following in the footsteps of his brother, said he became disillusioned after the coup when he witnessed the arbitrary arrest of protesters during a brutal military crackdown.</p>

<p>“People started treating us like ghosts,” Yan said. “They hated us.”</p>

<p>He said his brother fled the country and connected Yan to opposition groups cultivating sources inside the security forces known in Burmese as “watermelons” – green on the outside, appearing loyal to the army, but red, the colour of the ousted National League for Democracy government, on the inside.</p>

<p>Yan said he crept out of the police station and sent messages by phone out of sight of his colleagues, including about routes taken by senior junta figures and the number of police, fuel, and weapons in various places. He said he did not know how the rebel groups used the information he supplied.</p>

<p><em>Reuters</em> could not independently confirm his account.<br />
<br />
One military defector told Reuters it was rare for members of the armed forces to spy for rebel groups but there were many who “turned a blind eye” to rebel activities.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-rebel-groups-launch-attacks-against-military-junta-652067"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Myanmar: Rebel groups launch attacks against military junta</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Mass defections</strong></h2>

<p>Internal dissent poses a serious problem for the junta, some analysts say. Washington D.C-based think-tank the United States Institute for Peace estimates as many as 8,000 people have fled the security forces.</p>

<p>Yan and his brother, Ye, said the junta was struggling to recruit while police were poorly equipped and trained, making them reluctant to fight and quick to surrender, the pair said.</p>

<p>Previously, military battalions were made up of several hundred members but now most number little more than 130, a figure analysts agree with, former army captain Htet Myat told Reuters by phone.</p>

<p>Htet Myat, now a prominent opposition figure helping defectors, said the recent offensive had accelerated defections.</p>

<p>But, stranded in a foreign country, life can be a hard scrabble. Yan, who is single, and his brother and sister-in-law have started a business making and selling fabric printed with leaves from their home country.</p>

<p>Yan said their sacrifice amounted to a fraction of that made by others.</p>

<p>“I did what I had to do,” he said.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


For about two years, says 24-year-old Yan, a former Myanmar police officer, he risked his life pretending to serve the military junta while secretly spying for the armed resistance.

For about two years, says 24-year-old Yan, a former Myanmar police officer, he risked his life pretending to serve the military junta while secretly spying for the armed resistance. “I freed myself from unfair orders,” he told Reuters from a room in a town near the Myanmar border where he said he was taking refuge after fleeing the country in April. Yan declined to give his full name because of the threat to his life. Myanmar's junta is facing the fiercest threat to its power since seizing control in a 2021 coup as it battles an unprecedented alliance of opponents while weakened by some internal dissent and defections. The junta did not respond to requests for comment by Reuters. It has acknowledged some loss of control. The junta has not commented on spies within its ranks, but pro-military social media channels have exposed soldiers who appear sympathetic to the rebels. Opposition groups said it was difficult to determine how many members of the security forces supplied information to the resistance, and their number was likely small given the risk, but they play a crucial role. They have supplied intelligence, including about the transportation of military supplies, that has helped opposition groups plan attacks, a spokesperson for People’s Goal, a group that supports defectors, told Reuters. “We have received information which has saved lives,” the spokesperson said, referring to tip-offs about impending attacks or air strikes. Watch | 'Drop Bombs' retaking Myanmar sky × Watermelons Yan, who joined the police force in late 2020, following in the footsteps of his brother, said he became disillusioned after the coup when he witnessed the arbitrary arrest of protesters during a brutal military crackdown. “People started treating us like ghosts,” Yan said. “They hated us.” He said his brother fled the country and connected Yan to opposition groups cultivating sources inside the security forces known in Burmese as “watermelons” – green on the outside, appearing loyal to the army, but red, the colour of the ousted National League for Democracy government, on the inside. Yan said he crept out of the police station and sent messages by phone out of sight of his colleagues, including about routes taken by senior junta figures and the number of police, fuel, and weapons in various places. He said he did not know how the rebel groups used the information he supplied. Reuters could not independently confirm his account. One military defector told Reuters it was rare for members of the armed forces to spy for rebel groups but there were many who “turned a blind eye” to rebel activities. Also read | Myanmar: Rebel groups launch attacks against military junta Mass defections Internal dissent poses a serious problem for the junta, some analysts say. Washington D.C-based think-tank the United States Institute for Peace estimates as many as 8,000 people have fled the security forces. Yan and his brother, Ye, said the junta was struggling to recruit while police were poorly equipped and trained, making them reluctant to fight and quick to surrender, the pair said. Previously, military battalions were made up of several hundred members but now most number little more than 130, a figure analysts agree with, former army captain Htet Myat told Reuters by phone. Htet Myat, now a prominent opposition figure helping defectors, said the recent offensive had accelerated defections. But, stranded in a foreign country, life can be a hard scrabble. Yan, who is single, and his brother and sister-in-law have started a business making and selling fabric printed with leaves from their home country. Yan said their sacrifice amounted to a fraction of that made by others. “I did what I had to do,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar junta’s ‘watermelons’ challenge; soldiers on the outside, spies inside

China has expelled nine military officials in a sudden move from its Parliament and this includes four generals of the army strategic missile unit. These nine officials fired from the national people's Congress sat in Parliament as non-elected representatives.

China expels nine military officials, including four Army Generals

<p>Israeli soldiers failed to heed the cries for "help" of three hostages when they entered a building in Gaza just days before they were killed by the troops by mistake, revealed a military investigation which was published on Thursday (Dec 28).<br />
<br />
As per the probe, the soldiers heard "hostages" shout in the Hebrew language on December 10, however, it was interpreted as a "terrorist deception attempt" being made by Hamas operatives to lure them into the building which was located in&nbsp;Gaza City's district of Shejaiya.<br />
<br />
It added that the soldiers believed the building was rigged with explosives and they exited it and killed five Hamas militants trying to escape.<br />
<br />
As per the investigation, the hostages then probably also escaped from the building and were shot dead by Israeli soldiers on December 15 after they were mistakenly identified as a threat.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/son-of-hamas-deputy-commander-marwan-issa-killed-in-israeli-airstrike-reports-674444">Son of Hamas Deputy Commander Marwan Issa killed in Israeli airstrike: Reports</a></p>

<p>Two of the hostages were instantly killed by the soldiers. The third hostage escaped and soldiers were asked to hold fire so as to identify them, said the probe.<br />
<br />
When the Israeli commanders heard cries of "help!" and "they're shooting at me", they asked the surviving hostage to move towards the soldiers. However, two soldiers "who did not hear the order" because of "noise", shot the hostage dead from a nearby tank.</p>

<h2><strong>Signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" in building</strong></h2>

<p>All three hostages were shirtless and a white flag was being carried by one of them. On December 14, signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" were identified by an army drone on a building which was close to where the three hostages were shot.<br />
<br />
The army "failed in its mission to rescue the hostages in this event," said army chief Herzi Halevi, in a statement published with the investigation report. The three fatalities "could have been prevented", he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: UN deplores 'rapid deterioration' of rights in West Bank</strong></p>

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<p>After the three hostages' killing was announced, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the news "broke my heart" and "broke the whole nation's heart".<br />
<br />
The deaths of the hostages – who were identified as Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samer El-Talalqa – left entire Israel in a state of mourning.<br />
<br />
The death of the three hostages also triggered protests in Tel Aviv where demonstrators asked the authorities to come up with a fresh plan for bringing home the rest of the 129 hostages, who are still being held in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli soldiers failed to heed the cries for "help" of three hostages when they entered a building in Gaza just days before they were killed by the troops by mistake, revealed a military investigation which was published on Thursday (Dec 28).

Israeli soldiers failed to heed the cries for "help" of three hostages when they entered a building in Gaza just days before they were killed by the troops by mistake, revealed a military investigation which was published on Thursday (Dec 28). As per the probe, the soldiers heard "hostages" shout in the Hebrew language on December 10, however, it was interpreted as a "terrorist deception attempt" being made by Hamas operatives to lure them into the building which was located in Gaza City's district of Shejaiya. It added that the soldiers believed the building was rigged with explosives and they exited it and killed five Hamas militants trying to escape. As per the investigation, the hostages then probably also escaped from the building and were shot dead by Israeli soldiers on December 15 after they were mistakenly identified as a threat. Also read: Son of Hamas Deputy Commander Marwan Issa killed in Israeli airstrike: Reports Two of the hostages were instantly killed by the soldiers. The third hostage escaped and soldiers were asked to hold fire so as to identify them, said the probe. When the Israeli commanders heard cries of "help!" and "they're shooting at me", they asked the surviving hostage to move towards the soldiers. However, two soldiers "who did not hear the order" because of "noise", shot the hostage dead from a nearby tank. Signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" in building All three hostages were shirtless and a white flag was being carried by one of them. On December 14, signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" were identified by an army drone on a building which was close to where the three hostages were shot. The army "failed in its mission to rescue the hostages in this event," said army chief Herzi Halevi, in a statement published with the investigation report. The three fatalities "could have been prevented", he said. Watch: Israel-Hamas War: UN deplores 'rapid deterioration' of rights in West Bank After the three hostages' killing was announced, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the news "broke my heart" and "broke the whole nation's heart". The deaths of the hostages – who were identified as Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samer El-Talalqa – left entire Israel in a state of mourning. The death of the three hostages also triggered protests in Tel Aviv where demonstrators asked the authorities to come up with a fresh plan for bringing home the rest of the 129 hostages, who are still being held in the Gaza Strip. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli soldiers mistook hostages' cries for help as 'ambush': Probe report

The visit comes days after terrorists ambushed an army convoy. Army Chief General Manoj Pande's message to the Indian Army, 'remain resolute & steadfast against all challenges."

Poonch Terror Attack: Indian army chief visits J&K's Poonch district

A retired police officer has been shot dead by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla District this morning. According to the police the incident happened as a retired senior superintendent of police Mohammad Shafi was praying in a mosque.

J&K Terror attack: Terrorists reportedly open fire at a retired police officer

The Army claimed four soldiers were killed and three were injured during a battle with militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Thursday. At 3:45 PM on Thursday, terrorists ambushed two army trucks heading through Dera Ki Gali in Rajouri's Poonch area.

J&K: Army vehicle ambushed in Poonch area

The Army claimed five soldiers were killed and two were injured during a battle with militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Thursday. At 3:45 PM on Thursday, terrorists ambushed two army trucks heading through Dera Ki Gali in Rajouri's Poonch area.

India: Army vehicle ambushed in Jammu and Kashmir | 5 army personnel killed in action

The Army claimed three soldiers were killed and three were injured during a battle with militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Thursday. At 3:45 PM on Thursday, terrorists ambushed two army trucks heading through Dera Ki Gali in Rajouri's Poonch area.

J&K: Terrorists ambush police vehicle in Rajouri, killing three Indian Army personnel

<p>The first pictures of BTS members Jimin and Jungkook are here, and netizens can't keep calm. On December 12, Jimin and Jungkook became the last members of the famous K-pop group to join the military and complete their mandatory service. The two youngest members are undergoing training at the 5th Infantry Division Recruit Training Center.</p>

<p>Just a few days after BTS members joined the military, the first photos of them from their training session made their way to the internet. The photos, which have been widely shared on social media, show Jimin and Jungkook in a lecture class.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The photo shows Jimin&nbsp;and Jungkook sitting in a classroom with their fellow trainee soldiers&nbsp;as they&nbsp;listen to the instructor. All of them are dressed in black attire with their masks on. One photo shows Jungkook patiently listening to the instructor. In another picture, we can see Jimin clapping.</p>

<p>The pictures quickly became viral. The emotional Army - BTS fandom - were quick to show their love to their favourite BTS members.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ahh.. finally we got the first pic 😍 He's look fine. Everyone busy writing but he is busy listening. He just memorized. 😘😘</p>
— ¢ʊ†℮55 📀🅖🅞🅛🅓🅔🅝💫 by ⱼₖ (@melkb_55) <a href="https://twitter.com/melkb_55/status/1736247144234041569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>One user wrote, ''Finally I can see Jimin and JungKook,but why are they sitting separately 😭JiKook,,is seen receiving educational and reading program training.Dont daydream and don't be sleepy, there is brother Jin,Spirit of ARMY'S two beloved Busan🤗,JiKook's❤️💜.''</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">JUNGKOOK attending the lecture ♥️ <a href="https://t.co/wsUTzZiaZq">pic.twitter.com/wsUTzZiaZq</a></p>
— JK DAILYʲᵏ (@Daily_JKUpdate) <a href="https://twitter.com/Daily_JKUpdate/status/1736241557282705679?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The second user wrote, ''Ahh.. finally we got the first pic 😍 He's look fine. Everyone busy writing but he is busy listening. He just memorized. 😘😘''</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jungkook?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jungkook</a> 💜<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jimin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jimin</a> 💜<br />
Attending the lecture 😶‍🌫️💜😭<br />
Look at them how listening carefully and taking notes 😭 <a href="https://t.co/bHkUCLyQkh">pic.twitter.com/bHkUCLyQkh</a></p>
— mycookii (@jeoncook7777777) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeoncook7777777/status/1736242640155226538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">jimin and jungkook sitting next to eaxh other but the pictures are cropped. just look at the people in front of them :) <a href="https://t.co/ijRYOIEL9l">pic.twitter.com/ijRYOIEL9l</a></p>
— naz (@lilsunnymimi) <a href="https://twitter.com/lilsunnymimi/status/1736257387957481564?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Third user wrote, ''Jungkook attending the lecture.''</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="qme">💜 <a href="https://t.co/nZEQExCESb">pic.twitter.com/nZEQExCESb</a></p>
— 방탄소년단 (@BTS_twt) <a href="https://twitter.com/BTS_twt/status/1734456389295366485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>On December 12, the first photos were shared on X, showing Jimin and Jungkook sporting their buzz cuts. In one photo, Jimin and Jungkook are playfully touching each other's bald heads.<br />
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Another showed Jimin and Jungkook posing with J-hope and Suga. All of them are dressed in casual black outfits with their masks on.<br />
<br />
Before starting his military duty, Jungkook penned a heartfelt note for his fans, reading, "In December, I will start a new journey. I'm leaving you for a short while to serve in the military."</p>

<p>He added, "As I share this news, I feel heavy on one hand, and on the other hand, I'm reminded of precious memories with ARMY, so my heart warms up."</p>

<p>The&nbsp;seven members of the band&nbsp;will reunite in 2025.</p>


The first pictures of BTS members Jimin and Jungkook are here, and netizens can't keep calm. On December 12, Jimin and Jungkook became the last members of the famous K-pop group to join the military and complete their mandatory service.

The first pictures of BTS members Jimin and Jungkook are here, and netizens can't keep calm. On December 12, Jimin and Jungkook became the last members of the famous K-pop group to join the military and complete their mandatory service. The two youngest members are undergoing training at the 5th Infantry Division Recruit Training Center. Just a few days after BTS members joined the military, the first photos of them from their training session made their way to the internet. The photos, which have been widely shared on social media, show Jimin and Jungkook in a lecture class. The photo shows Jimin and Jungkook sitting in a classroom with their fellow trainee soldiers as they listen to the instructor. All of them are dressed in black attire with their masks on. One photo shows Jungkook patiently listening to the instructor. In another picture, we can see Jimin clapping. The pictures quickly became viral. The emotional Army - BTS fandom - were quick to show their love to their favourite BTS members. Ahh.. finally we got the first pic 😍 He's look fine. Everyone busy writing but he is busy listening. He just memorized. 😘😘 — ¢ʊ†℮55 📀🅖🅞🅛🅓🅔🅝💫 by ⱼₖ (@melkb_55) December 17, 2023 × One user wrote, ''Finally I can see Jimin and JungKook,but why are they sitting separately 😭JiKook,,is seen receiving educational and reading program training.Dont daydream and don't be sleepy, there is brother Jin,Spirit of ARMY'S two beloved Busan🤗,JiKook's❤️💜.'' JUNGKOOK attending the lecture ♥️ pic.twitter.com/wsUTzZiaZq — JK DAILYʲᵏ (@Daily_JKUpdate) December 17, 2023 × The second user wrote, ''Ahh.. finally we got the first pic 😍 He's look fine. Everyone busy writing but he is busy listening. He just memorized. 😘😘'' #jungkook 💜#jimin 💜 Attending the lecture 😶‍🌫️💜😭 Look at them how listening carefully and taking notes 😭 pic.twitter.com/bHkUCLyQkh — mycookii (@jeoncook7777777) December 17, 2023 × jimin and jungkook sitting next to eaxh other but the pictures are cropped. just look at the people in front of them :) pic.twitter.com/ijRYOIEL9l — naz (@lilsunnymimi) December 17, 2023 × Third user wrote, ''Jungkook attending the lecture.'' 💜 pic.twitter.com/nZEQExCESb — 방탄소년단 (@BTS_twt) December 12, 2023 × On December 12, the first photos were shared on X, showing Jimin and Jungkook sporting their buzz cuts. In one photo, Jimin and Jungkook are playfully touching each other's bald heads. Another showed Jimin and Jungkook posing with J-hope and Suga. All of them are dressed in casual black outfits with their masks on. Before starting his military duty, Jungkook penned a heartfelt note for his fans, reading, "In December, I will start a new journey. I'm leaving you for a short while to serve in the military." He added, "As I share this news, I feel heavy on one hand, and on the other hand, I'm reminded of precious memories with ARMY, so my heart warms up." The seven members of the band will reunite in 2025.

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