Britain will warn Israel on Wednesday that its patience is running thin over the "dreadful suffering" in Gaza, where a lack of aid is leading people to die of hunger. Watch in for more details!

Britain to warn Israel's Benny Gantz over famine in Gaza

<p>In a rare address outside No.10 Downing Street on Friday (Mar 1) night, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak issued a stark warning about the challenges facing British democracy. In his address, he said that British democracy is facing "intimidation, threats and planned acts of violence."&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes a day after&nbsp;Sunak met police chiefs to deliberate on ways to safeguard the "people, processes and institutions" in British democracy.</p>

<p>"In recent weeks and months, we've seen a shocking increase in extremist disruption and criminality," Sunak said in his address and added,&nbsp;"We are a country where we love our neighbours, and we are building Britain together. But I fear that our great achievement in building the world's most successful multi-ethnic multi-faith democracy is being deliberately undermined."</p>

<p>Taking aim at newly elected pro-Palestinian MP George Galloway, Sunak accused him of trivialising the severity of the October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel. The British PM termed the tragic attack on Israel by the militant group as "horror."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nicaragua-drags-germany-to-world-court-for-aiding-israels-genocide-in-gaza-695802">Nicaragua drags Germany to World Court for aiding Israel’s ‘genocide’ in Gaza</a></p>

<p>Notably, Galloway's victory in the Rochdale by-election after a contentious campaign added fuel to the ongoing political turmoil&nbsp;a day ago.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Vote on Gaza ceasefire and demonstrations&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sunak's address followed recent chaotic scenes in the British Parliament, including a tumultuous House of Commons vote on a ceasefire in Gaza.</p>

<p>The Speaker's decision to prioritise MPs' safety disrupted parliamentary conventions, reflecting the growing concern over safety amid vocal protests and even death threats faced by lawmakers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Don’t let the extremist hijack your marches,” Sunak had said to the people adding, “You have a chance in the coming weeks to show that you can protest decently, peacefully and with empathy for your fellow citizens.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/americans-who-test-covid-positive-dont-need-to-isolate-for-five-days-us-cdc-695818">Americans who test Covid positive don't need to isolate for five days: US CDC</a></p>

<p>The looming election has added urgency to Sunak's message, as he battles dwindling support for his governing Tories. As the Conservatives face potential internal dissent, voices calling for the return of Boris Johnson are also growing louder.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/president-biden-refers-to-gaza-as-ukraine-in-airdrop-announcement-white-house-clarifies-later-695811">President Biden refers to Gaza as 'Ukraine' in airdrop announcement, White House clarifies later</a></strong></p>

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<p>Former Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng's suggestion that Rishi Sunak should reconcile with his rival underscored the deepening divisions within the party.&nbsp;Rishi Sunak “should swallow some pride,”&nbsp;Kwarteng earlier said.&nbsp;Despite the challenges and calls for change, the prospect of Johnson's return remains contentious, particularly in light of past controversies and divisions within the party.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a rare address outside No.10 Downing Street on Friday (Mar 1) night, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak issued a stark warning about the challenges facing British democracy.

In a rare address outside No.10 Downing Street on Friday (Mar 1) night, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak issued a stark warning about the challenges facing British democracy. In his address, he said that British democracy is facing "intimidation, threats and planned acts of violence." This comes a day after Sunak met police chiefs to deliberate on ways to safeguard the "people, processes and institutions" in British democracy. "In recent weeks and months, we've seen a shocking increase in extremist disruption and criminality," Sunak said in his address and added, "We are a country where we love our neighbours, and we are building Britain together. But I fear that our great achievement in building the world's most successful multi-ethnic multi-faith democracy is being deliberately undermined." Taking aim at newly elected pro-Palestinian MP George Galloway, Sunak accused him of trivialising the severity of the October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel. The British PM termed the tragic attack on Israel by the militant group as "horror." Also Read | Nicaragua drags Germany to World Court for aiding Israel’s ‘genocide’ in Gaza Notably, Galloway's victory in the Rochdale by-election after a contentious campaign added fuel to the ongoing political turmoil a day ago. Vote on Gaza ceasefire and demonstrations Sunak's address followed recent chaotic scenes in the British Parliament, including a tumultuous House of Commons vote on a ceasefire in Gaza. The Speaker's decision to prioritise MPs' safety disrupted parliamentary conventions, reflecting the growing concern over safety amid vocal protests and even death threats faced by lawmakers. “Don’t let the extremist hijack your marches,” Sunak had said to the people adding, “You have a chance in the coming weeks to show that you can protest decently, peacefully and with empathy for your fellow citizens. Also Read | Americans who test Covid positive don't need to isolate for five days: US CDC The looming election has added urgency to Sunak's message, as he battles dwindling support for his governing Tories. As the Conservatives face potential internal dissent, voices calling for the return of Boris Johnson are also growing louder. Watch | President Biden refers to Gaza as 'Ukraine' in airdrop announcement, White House clarifies later × Former Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng's suggestion that Rishi Sunak should reconcile with his rival underscored the deepening divisions within the party. Rishi Sunak “should swallow some pride,” Kwarteng earlier said. Despite the challenges and calls for change, the prospect of Johnson's return remains contentious, particularly in light of past controversies and divisions within the party. (With inputs from agencies)

Sunak warns of 'threats' to British democracy, takes swipe at pro-Palestinian MP George Galloway

Ahead of the British elections, there seems to be no end to the troubles in the Tory campaign. The Housing Secretary Michael Gove has now pushed for the return of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Michael Gove wants Boris Johnson to frontline Tories poll campaign

A Bulgarian man living in the UK has been accused of being part of spy ring who attempted to collect information for Russia. He is the sixth person to be charged as part of an investigation into a suspected espionage plot, after five others were accused of carrying out surveillance for Vladimir Putin's regime last Autumn.

Sixth individual accused of Russian espionage in the UK

Sixth member of 'Russian spy ring' in Britain is charged with espionage

Paul Maynard is under investigation by MPs' expenses watchdog over claims he charged taxpayers for political campaign services.

UK: More trouble mounts for PM Rishi Sunak, Tory MP accused of misusing taxpayers' money: Reports

<p>In a major embarrassment to the UK Royal Navy, a Trident nuclear missile misfired and crashed into the ocean near the submarine that launched it, last month. The test firing&nbsp;was conducted off&nbsp;the coast of Florida and it was the second consecutive time a Trident nuclear missile had failed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Feb 20), the Ministry of Defence seemingly confirmed the failed test&nbsp;saying an "anomaly" occurred during the firing of the&nbsp;'Trident 2' ballistic missile.</p>

<p>Notably, Defence Secretary&nbsp;Grant Shapps and&nbsp;First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key were on board HMS Vanguard when the nuclear missile failed to get going.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, the crew responsible for the launch in the nuclear sub completed the doomsday drill perfectly before the Trident 2 missile&nbsp;was propelled into the air by compressed gas in the launch tube. However, its first-stage boosters failed to ignite and the 58-tonne missile – fitted with dummy warheads – splashed into the ocean and sank.</p>

<p>According to a source, quoted as saying by <em>The Sun</em>, the missile left the submarine but "just went plop", right next to the vessel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-nukes-to-return-to-uk-evidence-suggests-process-underway-632762"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US nukes to return to UK? Evidence suggests process underway</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Statement by the government</strong></h2>

<p>The MoD looked at the silver lining after the failure and said "we are confident that the anomaly was event specific, and therefore there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Tory ministers are expected to make a statement about what happened during the launch to the House of Commons on Wednesday (Feb 21).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, it is the second time that a Trident missile launch has failed after a similar misfire was reported during the 2016 test. At the time, HMS Vengeance was used to fire the missile but moments after the launch, the Trident missile veered off course and automatically self-destructed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usas-new-intel-report-warns-of-russian-nuclear-capabilities-in-space-690379"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'Satellite killer': Russia's name was not supposed to be revealed, but somebody leaked it</strong></a></p>

<p>Afterwards, the then-Theresa May government was accused of covering up the failed launch as parliament was due to vote on renewing the UK’s nuclear deterrent.</p>

<p>The failure of the missile launch comes at a time when a recent report stated that UK armed forces were overstretched and that in a peer-to-peer conflict, they would exhaust their capabilities in a "couple of months".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major embarrassment to the UK Royal Navy, a Trident nuclear missile misfired and crashed into the ocean near the submarine that launched it, last month. The test firing was conducted off the coast of Florida and it was the second consecutive time a Trident nuclear missile had failed.

In a major embarrassment to the UK Royal Navy, a Trident nuclear missile misfired and crashed into the ocean near the submarine that launched it, last month. The test firing was conducted off the coast of Florida and it was the second consecutive time a Trident nuclear missile had failed. On Tuesday (Feb 20), the Ministry of Defence seemingly confirmed the failed test saying an "anomaly" occurred during the firing of the 'Trident 2' ballistic missile. Notably, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps and First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key were on board HMS Vanguard when the nuclear missile failed to get going. According to reports, the crew responsible for the launch in the nuclear sub completed the doomsday drill perfectly before the Trident 2 missile was propelled into the air by compressed gas in the launch tube. However, its first-stage boosters failed to ignite and the 58-tonne missile – fitted with dummy warheads – splashed into the ocean and sank. According to a source, quoted as saying by The Sun, the missile left the submarine but "just went plop", right next to the vessel. Watch | US nukes to return to UK? Evidence suggests process underway × Statement by the government The MoD looked at the silver lining after the failure and said "we are confident that the anomaly was event specific, and therefore there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile". The Tory ministers are expected to make a statement about what happened during the launch to the House of Commons on Wednesday (Feb 21). Notably, it is the second time that a Trident missile launch has failed after a similar misfire was reported during the 2016 test. At the time, HMS Vengeance was used to fire the missile but moments after the launch, the Trident missile veered off course and automatically self-destructed. Also read | 'Satellite killer': Russia's name was not supposed to be revealed, but somebody leaked it Afterwards, the then-Theresa May government was accused of covering up the failed launch as parliament was due to vote on renewing the UK’s nuclear deterrent. The failure of the missile launch comes at a time when a recent report stated that UK armed forces were overstretched and that in a peer-to-peer conflict, they would exhaust their capabilities in a "couple of months". (With inputs from agencies)

Britain's Trident nuclear missile test fails for the second time in a row

In a new immigration scandal, it has emerged that the so-called 'high-risk' passengers and their planes are landing in Britain without going through the necessary security checks that means the passengers categorised as high-risk reach the London airport.

UK: 'High-risk flights' land in the UK without going through security checks

<p>Britain's Labour Party dealt a crushing blow to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservatives on Friday, winning contests for two new lawmakers in votes that indicated the opposition party was on track to win a national election later this year.</p>

<p>The double defeat underlined the flagging fortunes of the governing party and will do little to silence Sunak's critics, who fear the Conservatives could be trounced at the national election and want him to change course.</p>

<p>The 43-year-old former investment banker has struggled to restore his party's fortunes despite recasting himself at various points over the past year as a bold reformer, a stable technocrat and now as someone who needs more time "to stick to the plan" because, he says, that plan is working.</p>

<p>But with the Labour Party ahead in the polls, Sunak might feel the need to bend to the demands of some in his party to offer an increasingly disaffected electorate a more right-wing conservative agenda before the election.</p>

<p>Labour was jubilant.</p>

<p>"By winning in these Tory strongholds, we can confidently say that Labour is back in the service of working people and we will work tirelessly to deliver for them," Labour leader Keir Starmer said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The Tories (Conservatives) have failed. Rishi's recession proves that. That's why we've seen so many former Conservative voters switching directly to this changed Labour Party."</p>

<p>Labour overturned a hefty Conservative majority in the central English town of Wellingborough to win the parliamentary seat with 13,844 votes against 7,408 in what polling expert John Curtice described as the governing party's "worst ever by-election reverse."</p>

<p>In another threat to Sunak's party, the candidate for the right-wing Reform Party won 3,919 votes, a sign, Curtice said, it had "now entered the electoral battle in a serious way ... that potentially adds to the Conservatives' difficulties".</p>

<p>Addressing that threat, Conservative Party Chairman Richard Holden told Times Radio a vote for Reform was a vote for Labour.</p>

<p>"I don't think what we're seeing is that big switch to Labour ... but I think you are seeing Conservative voters, not at this stage willing to come out at the moment and support the government."</p>

<p>In Kingswood, southwestern England, Labour won with 11,176 votes against 8,675 for the Conservative candidate. Reform received 2,578 votes.</p>

<h2><strong>Pressure on Sunak&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>It appeared that the Conservatives had all but written off the two by-elections. While Labour sent many of its lawmakers and activists to campaign in both places, the Conservatives had a muted presence.</p>

<p>The party has only won four out of 21 by-elections since the last national election in 2019.</p>

<p>While so-called by-elections are often lost by the governing party, the scale of the defeat in two parliamentary seats the Conservatives have held for years piles pressure on Sunak, who became prime minister just over a year ago.</p>

<p>The challenge from the Reform Party adds a new dimension. Senior Conservative lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg said at least in Kingswood, if Reform supporters had voted for the governing party as part of the "Conservative family", the Conservatives would have held the parliamentary seat.</p>

<p>Few Conservatives believed they had any chance of winning in either place - the contest in Wellingborough was triggered after the former member of parliament was forced out over a bullying and harassment scandal, while in Kingswood, former minister Chris Skidmore resigned over Sunak's climate change policies.</p>

<p>But some had hoped Labour might have been damaged this week when Starmer did not move immediately to censure a Labour candidate who was recorded espousing conspiracy theories about Israel and for scrapping a green investment target.</p>

<p>But with turnout low, voters punished the governing party and Sunak, who is struggling to meet his election promises, including a vow to grow the economy. Data on Thursday showed it had slipped into recession in the second half of 2023.</p>

<p>With many voters angry over a punishing cost-of-living crisis, long waiting times to use the state-run health service and strikes on public transport, Sunak is running out of time to close the gap with Labour.</p>

<p>Polling expert Curtice said Labour's Starmer still looks "on course to be our next prime minister".</p>


Britain's Labour Party dealt a crushing blow to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservatives on Friday, winning contests for two new lawmakers in votes that indicated the opposition party was on track to win a national election later this year.

Britain's Labour Party dealt a crushing blow to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservatives on Friday, winning contests for two new lawmakers in votes that indicated the opposition party was on track to win a national election later this year. The double defeat underlined the flagging fortunes of the governing party and will do little to silence Sunak's critics, who fear the Conservatives could be trounced at the national election and want him to change course. The 43-year-old former investment banker has struggled to restore his party's fortunes despite recasting himself at various points over the past year as a bold reformer, a stable technocrat and now as someone who needs more time "to stick to the plan" because, he says, that plan is working. But with the Labour Party ahead in the polls, Sunak might feel the need to bend to the demands of some in his party to offer an increasingly disaffected electorate a more right-wing conservative agenda before the election. Labour was jubilant. "By winning in these Tory strongholds, we can confidently say that Labour is back in the service of working people and we will work tirelessly to deliver for them," Labour leader Keir Starmer said in a statement. "The Tories (Conservatives) have failed. Rishi's recession proves that. That's why we've seen so many former Conservative voters switching directly to this changed Labour Party." Labour overturned a hefty Conservative majority in the central English town of Wellingborough to win the parliamentary seat with 13,844 votes against 7,408 in what polling expert John Curtice described as the governing party's "worst ever by-election reverse." In another threat to Sunak's party, the candidate for the right-wing Reform Party won 3,919 votes, a sign, Curtice said, it had "now entered the electoral battle in a serious way ... that potentially adds to the Conservatives' difficulties". Addressing that threat, Conservative Party Chairman Richard Holden told Times Radio a vote for Reform was a vote for Labour. "I don't think what we're seeing is that big switch to Labour ... but I think you are seeing Conservative voters, not at this stage willing to come out at the moment and support the government." In Kingswood, southwestern England, Labour won with 11,176 votes against 8,675 for the Conservative candidate. Reform received 2,578 votes. Pressure on Sunak It appeared that the Conservatives had all but written off the two by-elections. While Labour sent many of its lawmakers and activists to campaign in both places, the Conservatives had a muted presence. The party has only won four out of 21 by-elections since the last national election in 2019. While so-called by-elections are often lost by the governing party, the scale of the defeat in two parliamentary seats the Conservatives have held for years piles pressure on Sunak, who became prime minister just over a year ago. The challenge from the Reform Party adds a new dimension. Senior Conservative lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg said at least in Kingswood, if Reform supporters had voted for the governing party as part of the "Conservative family", the Conservatives would have held the parliamentary seat. Few Conservatives believed they had any chance of winning in either place - the contest in Wellingborough was triggered after the former member of parliament was forced out over a bullying and harassment scandal, while in Kingswood, former minister Chris Skidmore resigned over Sunak's climate change policies. But some had hoped Labour might have been damaged this week when Starmer did not move immediately to censure a Labour candidate who was recorded espousing conspiracy theories about Israel and for scrapping a green investment target. But with turnout low, voters punished the governing party and Sunak, who is struggling to meet his election promises, including a vow to grow the economy. Data on Thursday showed it had slipped into recession in the second half of 2023. With many voters angry over a punishing cost-of-living crisis, long waiting times to use the state-run health service and strikes on public transport, Sunak is running out of time to close the gap with Labour. Polling expert Curtice said Labour's Starmer still looks "on course to be our next prime minister".

Britain's Labour Party deals double blow to PM Sunak's Conservatives in by-elections

Consumers open wallets but only for essentials

<p>Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension&nbsp;to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the start of the war nearly two years ago, more than 200,000 Ukrainians have sought sanctuary in the UK. Now, with the first visas issued in March 2022 set to expire next year, the Home Office said the new scheme would provide&nbsp;“certainty and assurance” for Ukrainians in the UK.</p>

<p>“This new visa extension scheme provides certainty and reassurance for Ukrainians in the UK on their future as this war continues, and we will continue to provide a safe haven for those fleeing the conflict,” said migration minister Tom Pursglov, adding that the&nbsp;extension would affect more than 283,000 Ukrainians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, Britain has two schemes for Ukrainian refugees - one for those having a family in the UK while the other allows Britons to offer accommodation to those fleeing the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from extending the visa duration, Britain also said it would supply thousands of drones to Kyiv and urged US lawmakers to vote for a $95 billion security aid package for Ukraine and other allies.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-announces-withdrawal-from-avdiivka-big-win-for-moscow-world-news-691300"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv announces withdrawal from Avdiivka, big win for Moscow | World News</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Ukraine's struggles in the war</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement comes a day after Russia said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city of&nbsp;Avdiivka. Kyiv also confirmed it had indeed&nbsp;pulled out of the former stronghold to save soldiers' lives.</p>

<p>Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an&nbsp;important victory".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the&nbsp;capture of Avdiivka represents Russia's biggest victory in the war since May last year and signals that the conflict&nbsp;could drag on.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-withdraws-forces-from-avdiivka-hours-after-signing-french-security-deal-691084">Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive last year, the Ukrainian troops under President Volodymyr Zelensky have made little to no inroads.</p>

<p>With the weapons arsenal and funding drying up, Zelensky is anxiously looking towards the US Congress to approve another tranche of aid money. However, friction between the Republicans and Democrats has stopped the aid bill from passing through.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18).

Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18). Since the start of the war nearly two years ago, more than 200,000 Ukrainians have sought sanctuary in the UK. Now, with the first visas issued in March 2022 set to expire next year, the Home Office said the new scheme would provide “certainty and assurance” for Ukrainians in the UK. “This new visa extension scheme provides certainty and reassurance for Ukrainians in the UK on their future as this war continues, and we will continue to provide a safe haven for those fleeing the conflict,” said migration minister Tom Pursglov, adding that the extension would affect more than 283,000 Ukrainians. Currently, Britain has two schemes for Ukrainian refugees - one for those having a family in the UK while the other allows Britons to offer accommodation to those fleeing the war. Apart from extending the visa duration, Britain also said it would supply thousands of drones to Kyiv and urged US lawmakers to vote for a $95 billion security aid package for Ukraine and other allies. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv announces withdrawal from Avdiivka, big win for Moscow | World News × Ukraine's struggles in the war The announcement comes a day after Russia said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka. Kyiv also confirmed it had indeed pulled out of the former stronghold to save soldiers' lives. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an important victory". Notably, the capture of Avdiivka represents Russia's biggest victory in the war since May last year and signals that the conflict could drag on. Also read | Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal Despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive last year, the Ukrainian troops under President Volodymyr Zelensky have made little to no inroads. With the weapons arsenal and funding drying up, Zelensky is anxiously looking towards the US Congress to approve another tranche of aid money. However, friction between the Republicans and Democrats has stopped the aid bill from passing through. (With inputs from agencies)

UK announces 18-month visa extension scheme for Ukrainians

In a bid to boost diversity and promote inclusion, the united Kingdom's army is aiming to relax security checks for overseas recruits. The current ethnic minority representation stands at 14 percent in the UK army which is struggling to achieve recruitment targets and attract talent from ethnic minority backgrounds. However, the easing of policy has received backlash from former senior military officers. Watch to know more!

UK's Defence Secretary orders review of army's inclusion policy, receives backlash

UK's Labour party has confirmed that it has formally dropped its target of spending £28bn a year on green investment. It made the announcement in a briefing to journalists giving new details of its green prosperity plan.

Labour drops green pledge, blames Tories for crashing UK's economy

King Charles was seen in public on Tuesday for the first time since it was revealed he was suffering from a form of cancer as his estranged younger son Prince Harry flew into London to see him.

King Charles seen in public for first time since cancer announcement

Buckingham Palace said that King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer and will postpone public-facing duties while undergoing treatment. The palace said that the king "remains wholly positive" and "looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible".

King Charles III diagnosed with cancer, King to continue with his royal engagement

UK's King Charles diagnosed with cancer, continue with royal engagements

Britain's King Charles III diagnosed with cancer, receiving treatment

Britain's King Charles diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace says

The British armed forces do not have enough weapons to fight a prolonged war against Russia, a report has warned.

Can Britain afford a third world war?

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<p>The United Kingdom (UK) warned on Saturday (Feb 4) that it is “too weak” to fight a prolonged war, adding that since Feb 2022, its stockpile of munitions was far below the level required to counter with certainty a threat from Russia. In a <strong><a href="https://committees.parliament.uk/publications/43178/documents/214880/default/">73-page report</a></strong>, the House of Commons Defence Committee said that the country's armed forces had deployed above their capacity in response to the worsening security situation.</p>

<p>"But all have capability shortfalls and stockpile shortages, and are losing personnel faster than they can recruit them," the report said. The committee said that the armed forces are also consistently overstretched, and this has negatively impacted retention as well as delayed the development of warfighting readiness.</p>

<p>"Either the Ministry of Defence must be fully funded to engage in operations whilst also developing warfighting readiness, or the Government must reduce the operational burden on the Armed Forces," the report added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Sustained ongoing investment needed'</strong></h2>

<p>The defence committee said that to be able to fight a sustained, high-intensity war, the military requires sustained ongoing investment. "There is no easy answer to these problems. We recognise that the Government is considering options for improving recruitment and retention of personnel whilst also aiming to reform its procurement system with a view to building industrial capacity so that munitions stockpiles can be replenished," the committee said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-carry-out-joint-air-raids-against-houthi-targets-in-yemen-hit-36-sites-686775">US, UK carry out joint air raids against Houthi targets in Yemen, hit 36 sites</a></strong></p>

<p>It added that it welcomed the above initiatives but highlighted that previous reforms have not had the desired effect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is clear that the Government will never achieve warfighting or strategic readiness without a thriving industrial base and without an offer that can attract, develop and sustain enough service personnel skilled to meet the increasing and evolving military challenges that we as a nation face. These reforms need to work, and at pace," the report further said.</p>

<h2><strong>The concerns about Russia's war in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The committee also said on Saturday that Russia's war in Ukraine, which started in late Feb 2022, has fundamentally changed the threat — demonstrating that Russia has both the capability and intent to prosecute a war in Europe. "This requires a wholesale shift in approach towards warfighting resilience both in the UK and Allies," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv's case of Moscow violating genocide convention moves to top court</strong></p>

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<p>Professor Justin Bronk from the Royal United Services Institute said that when it comes to fighting Russians, “We would have to beat them on the ground, but, ultimately, our armies will never be resourced or the size required to beat them land for land.”</p>

<p>“Our strategy is predicated, as is the entire Western military instrument, on air superiority. Put bluntly, we have a Russia problem if we cannot establish air superiority over where we have to fight,” Professor Bronk said.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Kingdom (UK) warned on Saturday (Feb 4) that it is “too weak” to fight a prolonged war, adding that since Feb 2022, its stockpile of munitions was far below the level required to counter with certainty a threat from Russia.

The United Kingdom (UK) warned on Saturday (Feb 4) that it is “too weak” to fight a prolonged war, adding that since Feb 2022, its stockpile of munitions was far below the level required to counter with certainty a threat from Russia. In a 73-page report, the House of Commons Defence Committee said that the country's armed forces had deployed above their capacity in response to the worsening security situation. "But all have capability shortfalls and stockpile shortages, and are losing personnel faster than they can recruit them," the report said. The committee said that the armed forces are also consistently overstretched, and this has negatively impacted retention as well as delayed the development of warfighting readiness. "Either the Ministry of Defence must be fully funded to engage in operations whilst also developing warfighting readiness, or the Government must reduce the operational burden on the Armed Forces," the report added. 'Sustained ongoing investment needed' The defence committee said that to be able to fight a sustained, high-intensity war, the military requires sustained ongoing investment. "There is no easy answer to these problems. We recognise that the Government is considering options for improving recruitment and retention of personnel whilst also aiming to reform its procurement system with a view to building industrial capacity so that munitions stockpiles can be replenished," the committee said. Also read | US, UK carry out joint air raids against Houthi targets in Yemen, hit 36 sites It added that it welcomed the above initiatives but highlighted that previous reforms have not had the desired effect. "It is clear that the Government will never achieve warfighting or strategic readiness without a thriving industrial base and without an offer that can attract, develop and sustain enough service personnel skilled to meet the increasing and evolving military challenges that we as a nation face. These reforms need to work, and at pace," the report further said. The concerns about Russia's war in Ukraine The committee also said on Saturday that Russia's war in Ukraine, which started in late Feb 2022, has fundamentally changed the threat — demonstrating that Russia has both the capability and intent to prosecute a war in Europe. "This requires a wholesale shift in approach towards warfighting resilience both in the UK and Allies," it said. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv's case of Moscow violating genocide convention moves to top court × Professor Justin Bronk from the Royal United Services Institute said that when it comes to fighting Russians, “We would have to beat them on the ground, but, ultimately, our armies will never be resourced or the size required to beat them land for land.” “Our strategy is predicated, as is the entire Western military instrument, on air superiority. Put bluntly, we have a Russia problem if we cannot establish air superiority over where we have to fight,” Professor Bronk said. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain warns it is ‘too weak’ to fight a prolonged war: Report gives details

A married British couple of Indian origin, Arti Dhir, 59, and Kavaljitsinh Raijada, 35, were found guilty of leading a drug-smuggling operation and exporting more than half a tonne of cocaine from the United Kingdom to Australia.

British couple convicted for smuggling cocaine

<p>Britain's King Charles III will not be carrying out his&nbsp;duties for up to one month as he recovers from prostate surgery. The King underwent a medical procedure for an enlarged prostate last week. He is said to be 'doing well' at the London Clinic where he is presently admitted.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Queen Camilla visited her husband on Sunday as he continues to rest at The London Clinic following the treatment on Friday.<br />
<br />
She has shared that the King is “doing well” and it has also been reported that the monarch visited his daughter-in-law, the Princess of Wales who is admitted to the same hospital. Kate went through an abdominal surgery last week.<br />
<br />
According to reports, the King will be undergoing a "period of recuperation" for the time being. He will be available for state matters while in hospital and can attend to red boxes with government papers when he is discharged.<br />
<br />
The King had last carried out duties in private on Thursday, ahead of arriving in London from Norfolk to prepare for the procedure.<br />
<br />
Charles acceded to the throne 16 months ago and had to cancel engagements ahead of the surgery as his doctors urged him to rest, though the exact nature of his treatment is not known.<br />
<br />
The King had been staying at the royal Sandringham estate and completing some tasks there before reaching London for the medical procedure on Friday.<br />
<br />
The King was diagnosed with the benign condition on January 17 while staying at Birkhall, Aberdeenshire, after going for a check-up because he was experiencing symptoms.<br />
<br />
He also urged other men to get themselves checked and undergo medical intervention if needed.</p>


Britain's King Charles III will not be carrying out his duties for up to one month as he recovers from prostate surgery. The King underwent a medical procedure for an enlarged prostate last week.

Britain's King Charles III will not be carrying out his duties for up to one month as he recovers from prostate surgery. The King underwent a medical procedure for an enlarged prostate last week. He is said to be 'doing well' at the London Clinic where he is presently admitted. Queen Camilla visited her husband on Sunday as he continues to rest at The London Clinic following the treatment on Friday. She has shared that the King is “doing well” and it has also been reported that the monarch visited his daughter-in-law, the Princess of Wales who is admitted to the same hospital. Kate went through an abdominal surgery last week. According to reports, the King will be undergoing a "period of recuperation" for the time being. He will be available for state matters while in hospital and can attend to red boxes with government papers when he is discharged. The King had last carried out duties in private on Thursday, ahead of arriving in London from Norfolk to prepare for the procedure. Charles acceded to the throne 16 months ago and had to cancel engagements ahead of the surgery as his doctors urged him to rest, though the exact nature of his treatment is not known. The King had been staying at the royal Sandringham estate and completing some tasks there before reaching London for the medical procedure on Friday. The King was diagnosed with the benign condition on January 17 while staying at Birkhall, Aberdeenshire, after going for a check-up because he was experiencing symptoms. He also urged other men to get themselves checked and undergo medical intervention if needed.

King Charles recovering after surgery, will not carry out royal duties for a month

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?

British snack food manufacturer Walkers is facing quite a situation as a tax tribunal ruled that its mini Poppadoms are not exempt from VAT and must be treated as crisps. The debate over the nature of these bite-sized snacks has unfolded, drawing parallels with past VAT battles involving Pringles and flapjacks.

Debate over British company, Walkers' mini 'Poppadoms'

India's Tata Steel said on Friday it will close its two blast furnaces in Britain by the end of this year. This, the company said, will lead to at least 2,800 workers losing their jobs at its port talbot steelworks in Wales.

Tata Steel to close two blast furnaces by end of 2024

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

Britain has invented a laser gun which can blow up drones. The formidable prototype weapon has been dubbed 'Dragonfire'. Priyanka Sharma explains what it's capable of.

Gravitas: A Sci-fi laser that can shoot drones

<p>The United Kingdom is set to label the Sunni Islamist political organisation Hizb ut-Tahrir as a designated terrorist group. The group had organised several pro-Palestinian rallies in the country in recent months in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<p>The government had initiated the process to impose a ban on the group, said UK's Interior Minister James Cleverly on Monday (Jan 15), claiming that it was anti-Semitic and also promoted "terrorism".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The organisation is already banned in Bangladesh, Egypt, Germany, Pakistan and several Central Asian and Arab countries.</p>

<p>"Hizb ut-Tahrir is an anti-Semitic organisation that actively promotes and encourages terrorism, including praising and celebrating the appalling 7 October attacks (on Israel)," Cleverly said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have made the decision to ban Hizb ut-Tahrir in the UK.<br />
<br />
Their promotion and encouragement of the abhorrent attacks perpetrated by Hamas goes against everything our country stands for.<br />
<br />
Belonging to and inviting support for this group will be a criminal offence. <a href="https://t.co/WOanBzzAy8">https://t.co/WOanBzzAy8</a></p>
— James Cleverly🇬🇧 (@JamesCleverly) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesCleverly/status/1746898750289650017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>If agreed by the parliament, the British government's prohibition of the Sunni Islamist political group will come into effect on Jan 19, placing it on par with al-Qaeda or ISIS.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ship-hit-by-missile-off-yemen-uk-maritime-security-agency-680257">US-owned cargo ship hit by missile off the coast of Yemen in latest attack</a></p>

<p>The proscription would also make it an offence to back the group, endorse it, arrange its meetings or carry its logo in public.</p>

<p>Those violating the rules could face punishment of up to 14 years in jail.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK to send 20,000 service personnel for NATO’s military exercises</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Hizb ut-Tahrir’s praise of the 7 October attacks and associated incidents, as well as describing Hamas as 'heroes' on their central website constitutes promoting and encouraging terrorism," a government statement said.</p>

<p>"Hizb ut-Tahrir has a history of praising and celebrating attacks against Israel and attacks against Jews more widely. The UK stands strongly against anti-Semitism and will not tolerate the promotion of terrorism in any form," it added.</p>

<p>Cleverly, as per the government's website, is authorised to proscribe an organisation under British law if the group is believed to be "concerned in terrorism, and it is proportionate to do".</p>

<p>Founded in 1953, the group has its headquarters in Lebanon and operates in at least 32 countries including the UK, United States, Canada and Australia, according to UK's Home Office.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Kingdom is set to label the Sunni Islamist political organisation Hizb ut-Tahrir as a designated terrorist group. The group had organised several pro-Palestinian rallies in the country in recent months in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war.

The United Kingdom is set to label the Sunni Islamist political organisation Hizb ut-Tahrir as a designated terrorist group. The group had organised several pro-Palestinian rallies in the country in recent months in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war. The government had initiated the process to impose a ban on the group, said UK's Interior Minister James Cleverly on Monday (Jan 15), claiming that it was anti-Semitic and also promoted "terrorism". The organisation is already banned in Bangladesh, Egypt, Germany, Pakistan and several Central Asian and Arab countries. "Hizb ut-Tahrir is an anti-Semitic organisation that actively promotes and encourages terrorism, including praising and celebrating the appalling 7 October attacks (on Israel)," Cleverly said. I have made the decision to ban Hizb ut-Tahrir in the UK. Their promotion and encouragement of the abhorrent attacks perpetrated by Hamas goes against everything our country stands for. Belonging to and inviting support for this group will be a criminal offence. https://t.co/WOanBzzAy8 — James Cleverly🇬🇧 (@JamesCleverly) January 15, 2024 × If agreed by the parliament, the British government's prohibition of the Sunni Islamist political group will come into effect on Jan 19, placing it on par with al-Qaeda or ISIS. Also read: US-owned cargo ship hit by missile off the coast of Yemen in latest attack The proscription would also make it an offence to back the group, endorse it, arrange its meetings or carry its logo in public. Those violating the rules could face punishment of up to 14 years in jail. WATCH | UK to send 20,000 service personnel for NATO’s military exercises × "Hizb ut-Tahrir’s praise of the 7 October attacks and associated incidents, as well as describing Hamas as 'heroes' on their central website constitutes promoting and encouraging terrorism," a government statement said. "Hizb ut-Tahrir has a history of praising and celebrating attacks against Israel and attacks against Jews more widely. The UK stands strongly against anti-Semitism and will not tolerate the promotion of terrorism in any form," it added. Cleverly, as per the government's website, is authorised to proscribe an organisation under British law if the group is believed to be "concerned in terrorism, and it is proportionate to do". Founded in 1953, the group has its headquarters in Lebanon and operates in at least 32 countries including the UK, United States, Canada and Australia, according to UK's Home Office. (With inputs from agencies)

UK initiates process to ban pro-Palestinian organisation Hizb ut-Tahrir over promoting terrorism

Brexit did more harm than good to the British economy. That's what one can infer from london mayor Sadiq Khan's latest statement, which has pegged Britain's economic losses since brexit at $178 billion per year.

Brexit costs UK economy $178 bn

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