Who benefits from this mess in West Asia? Are the efforts at de-escalation genuine? How has Soleimani's killing impacted Trump's political fortunes? Are there lessons for Canada to learn from? On #WionEdit Palki Sharma explains. #WIONEdit

Wion Edit: West Asia in crisis: Who stands to benefit?

Special report of WION's Holly Hudson from London over the 'Royal-Mess'.

Harry-Meghan to shift to Canada soon

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex caught the British Royal family and the global media off guard last week when they announced their bombshell decision to quit front-line duties.

Harry and Meghan decided on this issue without consulting any senior royals from the sovereign downwards.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meet-the-half-royals-prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-how-will-the-separation-from-the-family-work-out-for-the-couple-273295">Meet the half royals;&nbsp;how will the separation from the family work out for the couple?</a>

Queen Elizabeth has consented to her grandson Harry and Meghan's desire for an increasingly autonomous future after the British regal family held emergency chats on Monday to determine an augmenting fracture among the Windsors.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/madame-tussauds-removes-waxworks-of-harry-and-meghan-from-royal-family-display-273256">Madame Tussauds removes waxworks of Harry and Meghan from royal family display</a>

Harry and his American entertainer spouse will presently start a "period of transition" that will see them split their time among Britain and Canada as they additionally look for a way of life less hampered by imperial obligations and to end their dependence on public funding.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-queen-a-great-woman-describes-royal-family-fallout-as-sad-273574">Trump calls Queen 'a great woman', describes royal family fallout as 'sad'</a>

So, what will be their future course of action and how their lives will be?

Here’s everything we know so far.

Reason for leaving? 
 
In a statement on their official Instagram account the couple said that&nbsp;“After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution. We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen. It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment. We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages. This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity. We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties. Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support.” - The Duke and Duchess of Sussex

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B7EaGS_Jpb9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">“After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution. We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen. It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment. We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages. This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity. We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties. Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support.” - The Duke and Duchess of Sussex For more information, please visit sussexroyal.com (link in bio) Image © PA</a>

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During an interview, Prince Harry talked about how Princess Diana's demise in a fender bender while attempting to escape paparazzi keeps on being such a disastrous piece of his illustrious life.

“I think being part of this family, in this role, in this job, every single time I see a camera, every single time I hear a click, every single time I see a flash it takes me straight back, so in that respect, it’s the worst reminder of her life as opposed to the best,” he said during the interview.

What will happen to their Royal residence and financial security

According to the sussexroyal.com (official website of British Royals), the couple will keep on utilizing Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, England, as their official residence – with the consent of the queen. Subtleties on their Canadian home have not yet been uncovered.

There is no data concerning who will fund their security in North America but the Royal grant is just 5 per cent&nbsp;of the couple's earning. The rest 95 per cent of the money is a piece of the pay got by Prince Charles, produced by the Duchy of Cornwall.&nbsp;

Following their venturing down, Harry and Meghan won't get the Grant, yet they would like to keep accepting assets from the Prince of Wales.&nbsp;

Canada yet to decide if it will pay Harry and Meghan security costs

The Canadian government has yet to decide whether it will assume the security costs associated with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to split their time between Canada and Britain, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday.

"I think that is part of the reflection that... needs to be had, and there are discussions going on," Trudeau said in an interview with Canadian television channel Global.

"We're not entirely sure what the final decisions will be, where the dispositions are and those are decisions for them," he said.

Canadian media have estimated that protecting the couple and their baby son Archie would cost about $1.3 million (Can$1.7 million) per year. 
Canadian taxpayers have traditionally contributed towards security costs when members of the Royal Family visit the country.

&nbsp;Shuffling between Canada and UK &nbsp;

The couple will split their time between Britain and Canada as they additionally look for a way of life less hampered by imperial obligations.

"We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages," the couple said in the statement on Instagram.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex caught the British Royal family and the global media off guard last week when they announced their bombshell decision to quit front-line duties.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex caught the British Royal family and the global media off guard last week when they announced their bombshell decision to quit front-line duties. Harry and Meghan decided on this issue without consulting any senior royals from the sovereign downwards. Meet the half royals; how will the separation from the family work out for the couple? Queen Elizabeth has consented to her grandson Harry and Meghan's desire for an increasingly autonomous future after the British regal family held emergency chats on Monday to determine an augmenting fracture among the Windsors. Madame Tussauds removes waxworks of Harry and Meghan from royal family display Harry and his American entertainer spouse will presently start a "period of transition" that will see them split their time among Britain and Canada as they additionally look for a way of life less hampered by imperial obligations and to end their dependence on public funding. Also read: Trump calls Queen 'a great woman', describes royal family fallout as 'sad' So, what will be their future course of action and how their lives will be? Here’s everything we know so far. Reason for leaving? In a statement on their official Instagram account the couple said that “After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution. We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen. It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment. We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages. This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity. We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties. Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support.” - The Duke and Duchess of Sussex View this post on Instagram “After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution. We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen. It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment. We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages. This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity. We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties. Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support.” - The Duke and Duchess of Sussex For more information, please visit sussexroyal.com (link in bio) Image © PA A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (@sussexroyal) on Jan 8, 2020 at 10:33am PST × During an interview, Prince Harry talked about how Princess Diana's demise in a fender bender while attempting to escape paparazzi keeps on being such a disastrous piece of his illustrious life. “I think being part of this family, in this role, in this job, every single time I see a camera, every single time I hear a click, every single time I see a flash it takes me straight back, so in that respect, it’s the worst reminder of her life as opposed to the best,” he said during the interview. What will happen to their Royal residence and financial security According to the sussexroyal.com (official website of British Royals), the couple will keep on utilizing Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, England, as their official residence – with the consent of the queen. Subtleties on their Canadian home have not yet been uncovered. There is no data concerning who will fund their security in North America but the Royal grant is just 5 per cent of the couple's earning. The rest 95 per cent of the money is a piece of the pay got by Prince Charles, produced by the Duchy of Cornwall. Following their venturing down, Harry and Meghan won't get the Grant, yet they would like to keep accepting assets from the Prince of Wales. Canada yet to decide if it will pay Harry and Meghan security costs The Canadian government has yet to decide whether it will assume the security costs associated with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to split their time between Canada and Britain, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday. "I think that is part of the reflection that... needs to be had, and there are discussions going on," Trudeau said in an interview with Canadian television channel Global. "We're not entirely sure what the final decisions will be, where the dispositions are and those are decisions for them," he said. Canadian media have estimated that protecting the couple and their baby son Archie would cost about $1.3 million (Can$1.7 million) per year. Canadian taxpayers have traditionally contributed towards security costs when members of the Royal Family visit the country. Shuffling between Canada and UK The couple will split their time between Britain and Canada as they additionally look for a way of life less hampered by imperial obligations. "We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages," the couple said in the statement on Instagram. (With inputs from agencies)

The Royal exit of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry: Things we know so far

By Jeremy Wildeman

Canada is caught in a mess of its own diplomatic making following the recent escalation in the conflict between the United States and Iran. This escalation seemed to contribute to the downing by Iran on its own soil of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752, with 57 Canadians aboard.

This is not just a matter of Canada being caught in an international conflagration involving the Trump administration after its targeted killing of Iranian Major-General&nbsp;Qasem Soleimani.

It is also the result of an unnecessarily aggressive posture of Canada’s own when, in 2012, Stephen Harper’s Conservative government closed its embassy in Tehran and expelled Iranian officials on short notice from Canada.

The context of war and Flight PS752 
​​​​​​​ 
Flight PS752, with its stop in Kyiv, was popular with Iranians flying to Canada because there are no direct links between the two countries. It is also a cheap alternative route in Iran, which is impoverished by sanctions, conflict and corruption.

For months, the US&nbsp;and Iran had been antagonising&nbsp;one another across the Middle East. These regional rivals have been particularly aggressive since the US&nbsp;withdrew in 2018 from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) treaty, brokered by Barack Obama’s administration, and imposed new sanctions on Iran.

The JCPOA had been designed to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Iran had been upholding its part in the agreement.

This tension escalated to dramatic new heights when the US carried out the unprecedented act of openly assassinating another country’s top official. A fate typically reserved for non-state players in the post 9/11 era, it was carried out at Baghdad’s international airport. Ten people died in the drone attack, including Iraqi factional commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis. This has effectively demolished existing international norms for conduct.

Hillary Mann Leverett, a former White House National Security official, told Al Jazeera the killing of Soleimani amounted to a “declaration of war.”

Iran retaliated

The killing led directly to Iran saying it would no longer honour the JCPOA and launching missile attacks on American military bases in Iraq three days later, with no casualties. It may not be surprising in such a tense environment if the Iranian military fired missiles at an airliner taking off from its own airport, fearing an imminent US strike. Iran, however, should likely have grounded all flights that day, too.

Iran first denied it had shot down the plane, but after Iranian social media users ran rampant with speculation that Iranian missiles were responsible, the government admitted to its actions. Protesters have since taken to the streets against the regime.

Canada’s 2012 decision to cut diplomatic ties with Iran has played a role affecting the tragic loss of Canadian citizens.

It was a decision based heavily on internal political calculations. It has been at great cost to Canada’s ability to have a presence and institutional contacts in Iran to understand the politics and society there — and provide services to Canadians.

This lack of basic intelligence on the ground has hobbled Canada at the worst possible time. Because of these poor relations, Canada also has only limited access to participate in the investigation of the downed flight.

Justin Trudeau primarily blamed Iran

Canada justified cutting ties in 2012 by saying Iran was the world’s “most significant threat to global peace and security.” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau seemed to toe that line in his January 11 news conference, laying blame primarily on Iran.

Trudeau has largely been an adherent of his predecessor’s Middle East policy. However, diplomatic representation would significantly help in the aftermath of the downing of Flight PS752. What is more, countless Iranians are looking abroad for support for their own cause of reform and liberalization, and instead have been subjected to sanctions that harm innocent citizens most.

Diplomatic ties offer opportunities for dialogue essential to avoid conflict and resolve disputes. Further, Canadians live, travel and do business around the world, and a large community of Canadians of Iranian descent need access to Canadian diplomatic representation for their own safety and well-being.

That is why Canada has representation with other states around the world, even some of the most notorious. Indeed, one of Trudeau’s campaign promises in 2015 was to restore diplomatic relations with Iran.

Though the Harper government added legislation that made it difficult to reverse the 2012 decision, it can be done with political will.

Canadians need an embassy in Iran

No one yet knows what the fallout will be from the escalation between the US and Iran. The Middle East is now even more unsafe and unstable. Iran will feel compelled to respond after so egregious an attack on its officials, to save face and show attacks on its leadership come with a cost.

Meanwhile, Iraq is in greater upheaval. And no one can determine yet what the global impact will be after the US so dramatically smashed existing norms of statecraft.

More than ever, Canada needs a presence to be able to deal on its own with the aftermath of these terrible events, with Canadian interests front and centre. As the tragedy of Flight PS752 has made explicit, Canada only hurts itself and Canadians without it. 
 
(Jeremy Wildeman is Visiting Research Fellow, University of Bath) 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/canadas-non-diplomacy-puts-canadians-at-risk-in-an-unstable-middle-east-129758">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

By Jeremy Wildeman Canada is caught in a mess of its own diplomatic making following the recent escalation in the conflict between the United States and Iran. This escalation seemed to contribute to the downing by Iran on its own soil of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752, with 57 Canadians aboard.

By Jeremy Wildeman Canada is caught in a mess of its own diplomatic making following the recent escalation in the conflict between the United States and Iran. This escalation seemed to contribute to the downing by Iran on its own soil of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752, with 57 Canadians aboard. This is not just a matter of Canada being caught in an international conflagration involving the Trump administration after its targeted killing of Iranian Major-General Qasem Soleimani. It is also the result of an unnecessarily aggressive posture of Canada’s own when, in 2012, Stephen Harper’s Conservative government closed its embassy in Tehran and expelled Iranian officials on short notice from Canada. The context of war and Flight PS752 Flight PS752, with its stop in Kyiv, was popular with Iranians flying to Canada because there are no direct links between the two countries. It is also a cheap alternative route in Iran, which is impoverished by sanctions, conflict and corruption. For months, the US and Iran had been antagonising one another across the Middle East. These regional rivals have been particularly aggressive since the US withdrew in 2018 from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) treaty, brokered by Barack Obama’s administration, and imposed new sanctions on Iran. The JCPOA had been designed to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Iran had been upholding its part in the agreement. This tension escalated to dramatic new heights when the US carried out the unprecedented act of openly assassinating another country’s top official. A fate typically reserved for non-state players in the post 9/11 era, it was carried out at Baghdad’s international airport. Ten people died in the drone attack, including Iraqi factional commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis. This has effectively demolished existing international norms for conduct. Hillary Mann Leverett, a former White House National Security official, told Al Jazeera the killing of Soleimani amounted to a “declaration of war.” Iran retaliated The killing led directly to Iran saying it would no longer honour the JCPOA and launching missile attacks on American military bases in Iraq three days later, with no casualties. It may not be surprising in such a tense environment if the Iranian military fired missiles at an airliner taking off from its own airport, fearing an imminent US strike. Iran, however, should likely have grounded all flights that day, too. Iran first denied it had shot down the plane, but after Iranian social media users ran rampant with speculation that Iranian missiles were responsible, the government admitted to its actions. Protesters have since taken to the streets against the regime. Canada’s 2012 decision to cut diplomatic ties with Iran has played a role affecting the tragic loss of Canadian citizens. It was a decision based heavily on internal political calculations. It has been at great cost to Canada’s ability to have a presence and institutional contacts in Iran to understand the politics and society there — and provide services to Canadians. This lack of basic intelligence on the ground has hobbled Canada at the worst possible time. Because of these poor relations, Canada also has only limited access to participate in the investigation of the downed flight. Justin Trudeau primarily blamed Iran Canada justified cutting ties in 2012 by saying Iran was the world’s “most significant threat to global peace and security.” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau seemed to toe that line in his January 11 news conference, laying blame primarily on Iran. Trudeau has largely been an adherent of his predecessor’s Middle East policy. However, diplomatic representation would significantly help in the aftermath of the downing of Flight PS752. What is more, countless Iranians are looking abroad for support for their own cause of reform and liberalization, and instead have been subjected to sanctions that harm innocent citizens most. Diplomatic ties offer opportunities for dialogue essential to avoid conflict and resolve disputes. Further, Canadians live, travel and do business around the world, and a large community of Canadians of Iranian descent need access to Canadian diplomatic representation for their own safety and well-being. That is why Canada has representation with other states around the world, even some of the most notorious. Indeed, one of Trudeau’s campaign promises in 2015 was to restore diplomatic relations with Iran. Though the Harper government added legislation that made it difficult to reverse the 2012 decision, it can be done with political will. Canadians need an embassy in Iran No one yet knows what the fallout will be from the escalation between the US and Iran. The Middle East is now even more unsafe and unstable. Iran will feel compelled to respond after so egregious an attack on its officials, to save face and show attacks on its leadership come with a cost. Meanwhile, Iraq is in greater upheaval. And no one can determine yet what the global impact will be after the US so dramatically smashed existing norms of statecraft. More than ever, Canada needs a presence to be able to deal on its own with the aftermath of these terrible events, with Canadian interests front and centre. As the tragedy of Flight PS752 has made explicit, Canada only hurts itself and Canadians without it. (Jeremy Wildeman is Visiting Research Fellow, University of Bath) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Canada’s non-diplomacy puts Canadians at risk in unstable Middle East

Iran on Sunday hinted de-escalation of tensions with the United States which were triggered nearly two weeks ago when top commander Qasem Soleimani was killed in a drone strike by Washington in Iraq.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani said that both countries agreed de-escalation is the "only solution" to the ongoing crisis after he met Iran's President Hassan Rouhani in his visit to Iran.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-sole-female-olympic-medalist-kimia-alizadeh-says-she-left-her-country-for-europe-273826">Iran's sole female Olympic medalist Kimia Alizadeh says she left her country for Europe</a> 
&nbsp;

<img alt="Qatar Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, Hassan Rouhani" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8b9fc5ef-312a-4883-8d35-60c6f19ae722" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1NN4XQ.jpg" />

(Emir of Qatar Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani (L) and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani | Photo Credit: AFP)

"This visit comes at a critical time in the region," Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani said. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/do-not-kill-your-protesters-us-president-trump-to-iranian-authorities-273818">'Do not kill your protesters, world is watching', Trump warns Iran</a>

"We agreed... that the only solution to these crises is de-escalation from everyone and dialogue."

Rouhani said: "We've decided to have more consultations and cooperation for the security of the entire region."

<img alt="Iran protests" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8519d58b-2ecb-4685-8a50-3ff30a643aed" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/hqL8YOpo.jpg" />

(A woman shouts slogans as she gathers with people to show their sympathy to the victims of the crash of the Boeing 737-800 plane, flight PS 752, in Tehran,&nbsp;Iran | Photo Credit: Reuters)

Earlier today, Trump tweeted that US NSA suggested that "sanctions &amp; protests have Iran choked off," and will force the country to "negotiate".&nbsp;

"Will be totally up to them but, no nuclear weapons and “don’t kill your protesters,” the tweet added.&nbsp;

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National Security Adviser suggested today that sanctions &amp; protests have Iran “choked off”, will force them to negotiate. Actually, I couldn’t care less if they negotiate. Will be totally up to them but, no nuclear weapons and “don’t kill your protesters.”
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1216506722153639942?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The protests began on Saturday in Iran after Rouhani admitted that "human error" brought down the Boeing 737, which killed 176 people.&nbsp;

Hundreds of students also shouted "death to liars" at a memorial at Tehran's Amir Kabir University on Saturday. Some protests in the Islamic Republic also demanded the resignation of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;

On Sunday, heightened tensions were observed once again after security was beefed up near the iconic Azadi Square south of the centre in Tehran.&nbsp;

Riot police were deployed in Amir Kabir, Sharif and Tehran universities and Enqelab Square in the Iranian capital.&nbsp;

Earlier, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said that "Canada and the world still have many questions, questions that must be answered". Trudeau also said it is necessary for Canada to participate in the investigation of the crashed aircraft in which 57 Canadians were killed.&nbsp;

Ukraine demanded that guilty of those responsible in the crash be brought to justice and asked for the payment of compensation to the victims' family.&nbsp;

Iran on Sunday hinted de-escalation of tensions with the United States which were triggered nearly two weeks ago when top commander Qasem Soleimani was killed in a drone strike by Washington in Iraq.

Iran on Sunday hinted de-escalation of tensions with the United States which were triggered nearly two weeks ago when top commander Qasem Soleimani was killed in a drone strike by Washington in Iraq. On Sunday, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani said that both countries agreed de-escalation is the "only solution" to the ongoing crisis after he met Iran's President Hassan Rouhani in his visit to Iran. Also read: Iran's sole female Olympic medalist Kimia Alizadeh says she left her country for Europe (Emir of Qatar Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani (L) and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani | Photo Credit: AFP) "This visit comes at a critical time in the region," Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani said. Also read: 'Do not kill your protesters, world is watching', Trump warns Iran "We agreed... that the only solution to these crises is de-escalation from everyone and dialogue." Rouhani said: "We've decided to have more consultations and cooperation for the security of the entire region." (A woman shouts slogans as she gathers with people to show their sympathy to the victims of the crash of the Boeing 737-800 plane, flight PS 752, in Tehran, Iran | Photo Credit: Reuters) Earlier today, Trump tweeted that US NSA suggested that "sanctions & protests have Iran choked off," and will force the country to "negotiate". "Will be totally up to them but, no nuclear weapons and “don’t kill your protesters,” the tweet added. National Security Adviser suggested today that sanctions & protests have Iran “choked off”, will force them to negotiate. Actually, I couldn’t care less if they negotiate. Will be totally up to them but, no nuclear weapons and “don’t kill your protesters.” — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2020 × The protests began on Saturday in Iran after Rouhani admitted that "human error" brought down the Boeing 737, which killed 176 people. Hundreds of students also shouted "death to liars" at a memorial at Tehran's Amir Kabir University on Saturday. Some protests in the Islamic Republic also demanded the resignation of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. On Sunday, heightened tensions were observed once again after security was beefed up near the iconic Azadi Square south of the centre in Tehran. Riot police were deployed in Amir Kabir, Sharif and Tehran universities and Enqelab Square in the Iranian capital. Earlier, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said that "Canada and the world still have many questions, questions that must be answered". Trudeau also said it is necessary for Canada to participate in the investigation of the crashed aircraft in which 57 Canadians were killed. Ukraine demanded that guilty of those responsible in the crash be brought to justice and asked for the payment of compensation to the victims' family.

Iran hints at de-escalating tensions with US

Over the last 10 days, Iran's second most powerful person Soleimani was killed, missiles were fired & Iran shot down a passenger plane due to a 'human error'. De-escalation is a necessity even as the world grieves for the dead. Details in this report. #Gravitas #WestAsia

Gravitas: Crisis in West Asia, Canada grieves for the victims

Canadian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-under-pressure-at-home-over-plane-crash-warns-iran-world-is-watching-273502">Justin Trudeau</a> is set on Sunday to attend what is expected to be the country's largest memorial to the victims of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pm-justin-trudeau-wants-full-investigation-into-plane-crash-273614">Ukrainian airliner</a> shot down in Iran in a disaster that killed 57 Canadians, mainly of Iranian descent.

Trudeau's office confirmed on Saturday that the prime minister will address the memorial service, due to be held in a basketball arena that seats 1,700 people in the western city of Edmonton. Thirteen of the victims lived in Edmonton.

Foreign Affairs Minister François-Philippe Champagne will also attend.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-uk-envoy-macaire-arrested-but-freed-soon-after-identified-273805">Iran</a> acknowledged on Saturday that its military shot down the plane on Wednesday, killing all 176 aboard, in what the country's president called a "disastrous mistake," with air defenses firing in error while on alert after Iranian missile strikes on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-iran-against-massacre-as-protests-erupt-over-downing-of-ukrainian-airplane-273670">US</a>&nbsp;targets in Iraq.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-airplane-brought-down-due-to-human-error-iran-273506">Great tragedy and unforgivable mistake: Iranian president on military 'unintentionally' shooting down Ukrainian airplane</a>

"Canada and the world still have many questions, questions that must be answered," Trudeau said in a news conference in Ottawa on Saturday.

"It is absolutely necessary that Canada participate in this investigation. We expect the full cooperation of Iranian authorities," Trudeau added.

The memorial in Edmonton follows several days of grief in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ottawa-lowers-canadian-death-toll-in-iran-air-crash-to-57-273604">Canada</a>, including candlelight vigils in many cities.

Memorials are also planned on Sunday in Toronto.

"The community is unbelievable. The people feel whole Canada is hugging them," said Reza Akbari, president of the Iranian Heritage Society of Edmonton.

Mourners placed flowers and scattered rose petals this week outside the office of University of Alberta engineering professor Pedram Mousavi, who died in the crash with his wife, engineering professor Mojgan Daneshmand, and their two daughters.

"They were both so kind and caring," wrote Dennis Ramsawak, who took classes with both professors, in an online memorial. "I'm so heartbroken. It's a great loss for the community."

Edmonton's Iranian community is collecting funds to pay funeral and other expenses for the victims' families.

Some Edmonton relatives have already traveled to Iran to bury relatives, Akbari said, adding that transporting remains to Canada for burial would be complex and costly.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set on Sunday to attend what is expected to be the country's largest memorial to the victims of a Ukrainian airliner shot down in Iran in a disaster that killed 57 Canadians, mainly of Iranian descent.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set on Sunday to attend what is expected to be the country's largest memorial to the victims of a Ukrainian airliner shot down in Iran in a disaster that killed 57 Canadians, mainly of Iranian descent. Trudeau's office confirmed on Saturday that the prime minister will address the memorial service, due to be held in a basketball arena that seats 1,700 people in the western city of Edmonton. Thirteen of the victims lived in Edmonton. Foreign Affairs Minister François-Philippe Champagne will also attend. Iran acknowledged on Saturday that its military shot down the plane on Wednesday, killing all 176 aboard, in what the country's president called a "disastrous mistake," with air defenses firing in error while on alert after Iranian missile strikes on US targets in Iraq. Also read: Great tragedy and unforgivable mistake: Iranian president on military 'unintentionally' shooting down Ukrainian airplane "Canada and the world still have many questions, questions that must be answered," Trudeau said in a news conference in Ottawa on Saturday. "It is absolutely necessary that Canada participate in this investigation. We expect the full cooperation of Iranian authorities," Trudeau added. The memorial in Edmonton follows several days of grief in Canada, including candlelight vigils in many cities. Memorials are also planned on Sunday in Toronto. "The community is unbelievable. The people feel whole Canada is hugging them," said Reza Akbari, president of the Iranian Heritage Society of Edmonton. Mourners placed flowers and scattered rose petals this week outside the office of University of Alberta engineering professor Pedram Mousavi, who died in the crash with his wife, engineering professor Mojgan Daneshmand, and their two daughters. "They were both so kind and caring," wrote Dennis Ramsawak, who took classes with both professors, in an online memorial. "I'm so heartbroken. It's a great loss for the community." Edmonton's Iranian community is collecting funds to pay funeral and other expenses for the victims' families. Some Edmonton relatives have already traveled to Iran to bury relatives, Akbari said, adding that transporting remains to Canada for burial would be complex and costly.

Canada's Trudeau to attend Iran crash victim memorial in hard-hit Edmonton

The Canadian government, under pressure at home to be tougher on Iran over intelligence reports it shot down a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-given-important-data-on-iran-plane-crash-ukraine-foreign-minister-273408">passenger jet</a>, on Friday reiterated calls for a full probe into the disaster and warned Tehran that "the world is watching".

Friends and families of some of the Canadians killed when a Ukrainian airliner crashed outside Tehran are demanding Prime Minister Justin Trudeau take a harder stance after accusing Iran of downing the plane, albeit probably by mistake. Iran denies the charge.

"Time will tell and the world is watching," said Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne when asked whether Iran was conducting its probe into what happened in good faith.

"I think transparency is what the international community is looking for now," he told a news conference.

Champagne said Ottawa now thought 57 Canadians died in the crash, down from an initial 63, and said an emergency task force was being created to help the families of the victims.

While Trudeau faces pressure at home to respond strongly, he has few options, especially after Canada broke off diplomatic relations with Tehran in 2012. Iran has said it will allow Canadian, US&nbsp;and other international officials to participate in the investigation into Wednesday's crash.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-gets-access-to-crashed-planes-black-boxes-foreign-minister-273477">Ukraine gets access to crashed plane's black boxes, says foreign minister</a>

The prime minister "completely misses the point" when he does not condemn the Iranian government, said Ali Ashtari, 39, a data scientist from Toronto who lost a friend in the crash.

Ashtari said Canada should designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization and impose sanctions on them. The government already lists the IRGC's overseas arm, the Quds Force, as a terrorist group.

"This is the minimum that we want from the government," Ashtari said at a vigil in Toronto. "Otherwise it's just giving speech with teary eyes, it gives nothing."

Trudeau said Ottawa had demanded Canadian access to Iran to provide consular services, identify victims and participate in the crash investigation.

Champagne said Iran had granted two visas so far to Canadian officials.

The crash on Wednesday, which killed all 176 people on board, occurred as Iran was on alert for possible reprisals after it launched missiles on bases housing US&nbsp;troops in Iraq.

"We would just urge him (Trudeau) to use all his power to find out what really happened and hold the responsible accountable," Amir Arsalani, who lost his sister, her husband and their one-year-old daughter, told Reuters.

Trudeau sidestepped questions on Thursday as to whether the United States should be held at least partially responsible given that Iran's attack on US&nbsp;forces was in retaliation for a US drone strike that killed Qassem Soleimani, former Quds Force leader.

The Canadian Broadcasting Corp. cited two government sources as saying Washington should have warned Canada in advance about the drone strike. Ottawa also wants a more thorough explanation of the thinking behind the attack, they added.

Champagne did not answer questions about whether Canada should have been warned.

Ottawa is focusing in talks with allies on how it can play as large a role as possible in the probe rather than expressing anger against either Iran or the United States, according to three sources familiar with the private conversations.

"There has been no fingerpointing or blame at this stage," said one of the sources, who requested anonymity given the sensitivity of the situation.

Relations between Trudeau and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump are formal at best, with Trudeau last month caught on camera joking about Trump, and the president calling him "two-faced".

There was no benefit to the government to further sour relations by making "a big public statement" about the United States, said Stephanie Carvin, a former national security analyst and international relations professor at Carleton University in Ottawa.

Ottawa's best option for now was to persuade like-minded nations to put pressure on Iran, she added.

Champagne said Canada had formed a coordinating group with Britain, Ukraine, Sweden and Afghanistan to help the families of the victims and pressure Iran for a full probe.

Trudeau has few ways to punish Iran in the short term. Bilateral trade - already limited by sanctions related to Iran's nuclear program - totalled just over C$200 million in 2018.

Trudeau was due to meet privately with family members of the victims in Toronto on Friday.

The Canadian government, under pressure at home to be tougher on Iran over intelligence reports it shot down a passenger jet, on Friday reiterated calls for a full probe into the disaster and warned Tehran that "the world is watching".

The Canadian government, under pressure at home to be tougher on Iran over intelligence reports it shot down a passenger jet, on Friday reiterated calls for a full probe into the disaster and warned Tehran that "the world is watching". Friends and families of some of the Canadians killed when a Ukrainian airliner crashed outside Tehran are demanding Prime Minister Justin Trudeau take a harder stance after accusing Iran of downing the plane, albeit probably by mistake. Iran denies the charge. "Time will tell and the world is watching," said Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne when asked whether Iran was conducting its probe into what happened in good faith. "I think transparency is what the international community is looking for now," he told a news conference. Champagne said Ottawa now thought 57 Canadians died in the crash, down from an initial 63, and said an emergency task force was being created to help the families of the victims. While Trudeau faces pressure at home to respond strongly, he has few options, especially after Canada broke off diplomatic relations with Tehran in 2012. Iran has said it will allow Canadian, US and other international officials to participate in the investigation into Wednesday's crash. Also read: Ukraine gets access to crashed plane's black boxes, says foreign minister The prime minister "completely misses the point" when he does not condemn the Iranian government, said Ali Ashtari, 39, a data scientist from Toronto who lost a friend in the crash. Ashtari said Canada should designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization and impose sanctions on them. The government already lists the IRGC's overseas arm, the Quds Force, as a terrorist group. "This is the minimum that we want from the government," Ashtari said at a vigil in Toronto. "Otherwise it's just giving speech with teary eyes, it gives nothing." Trudeau said Ottawa had demanded Canadian access to Iran to provide consular services, identify victims and participate in the crash investigation. Champagne said Iran had granted two visas so far to Canadian officials. The crash on Wednesday, which killed all 176 people on board, occurred as Iran was on alert for possible reprisals after it launched missiles on bases housing US troops in Iraq. "We would just urge him (Trudeau) to use all his power to find out what really happened and hold the responsible accountable," Amir Arsalani, who lost his sister, her husband and their one-year-old daughter, told Reuters. Trudeau sidestepped questions on Thursday as to whether the United States should be held at least partially responsible given that Iran's attack on US forces was in retaliation for a US drone strike that killed Qassem Soleimani, former Quds Force leader. The Canadian Broadcasting Corp. cited two government sources as saying Washington should have warned Canada in advance about the drone strike. Ottawa also wants a more thorough explanation of the thinking behind the attack, they added. Champagne did not answer questions about whether Canada should have been warned. Ottawa is focusing in talks with allies on how it can play as large a role as possible in the probe rather than expressing anger against either Iran or the United States, according to three sources familiar with the private conversations. "There has been no fingerpointing or blame at this stage," said one of the sources, who requested anonymity given the sensitivity of the situation. Relations between Trudeau and US President Donald Trump are formal at best, with Trudeau last month caught on camera joking about Trump, and the president calling him "two-faced". There was no benefit to the government to further sour relations by making "a big public statement" about the United States, said Stephanie Carvin, a former national security analyst and international relations professor at Carleton University in Ottawa. Ottawa's best option for now was to persuade like-minded nations to put pressure on Iran, she added. Champagne said Canada had formed a coordinating group with Britain, Ukraine, Sweden and Afghanistan to help the families of the victims and pressure Iran for a full probe. Trudeau has few ways to punish Iran in the short term. Bilateral trade - already limited by sanctions related to Iran's nuclear program - totalled just over C$200 million in 2018. Trudeau was due to meet privately with family members of the victims in Toronto on Friday.

Canada, under pressure at home over plane crash, warns Iran world is watching

Ukrainian airliner crash in Iran&nbsp;killed all 176 people on board. Canada's Prime Minister&nbsp;Justin Trudeau&nbsp;citing intelligence said on Thursday that the crash had occurred due to an Iranian surface-to-air missile, adding that it "may well have been unintentional".

<ul>
	<li>Washington had concluded that with the&nbsp;high degree of certainty that anti-aircraft missiles brought down the plane.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-all-passengers-aboard-ukrainian-airplane-killed-in-crash-272841">Read more</a></li>
	<li>The US believes Iran shot down the plane by mistake. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-airlines-crash-western-intelligence-agencies-iran-and-ukraine-dismiss-theory-of-missile-downing-boeing-737-273157">Read more</a></li>
	<li>The plane was airborne for two minutes after departing Tehran when the heat signatures of two surface-to-air missiles were detected. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-plane-crash-investigators-consider-several-leads-including-missile-strike-technical-malfunction-act-of-terror-273238">Read more</a></li>
	<li>US President Donald Trump said he did not believe the crash of the airliner was due to a mechanical issue. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-boxes-of-ukranian-boeing-737-airline-found-iran-273062">Read more&nbsp;</a></li>
	<li>The Ukrainian airliner took off at 6:12 am on Tuesday and was given permission to climb to 26,000 feet (7,925 m). It crashed six minutes later near the town of Sabashahr. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-boxes-of-ukranian-boeing-737-airline-found-iran-273062">Read more&nbsp;</a></li>
	<li>Iran has formally invited the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to take part in its investigation and the agency has agreed to assign an investigator. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-airplane-with-180-aboard-crashes-in-iran-272823">Read More&nbsp;</a></li>
	<li>&nbsp;Boeing is still reeling from two deadly crashes of 737 MAX planes in five months that led to the plane's grounding in March 2019. The 737-800 that crashed was built in 2016 and is the prior generation of the 737 before the MAX. Boeing has built about 5,000 of those planes, which have a good safety record. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intelligence-evidence-indicates-boeing-airliner-was-shot-down-by-iranian-surface-to-air-missile-trudeau-273282">Read more</a></li>
	<li>The FAA had banned US&nbsp;carriers from operating in the airspace over Iraq, Iran, the Gulf of Oman and the waters between Iran and Saudi Arabia in the hours after Iran's attack on US-led forces in Iraq. Several other airlines also diverted flights.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-boeing-737-airliner-turned-was-headed-to-airport-when-it-crashed-iran-civil-aviation-authority-273145"> Read more&nbsp;</a></li>
</ul>

Watch Video:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-iran-plane-crash-what-do-we-know-about-the-crash-273258/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Ukrainian airliner crash in Iran killed all 176 people on board. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau citing intelligence said on Thursday that the crash had occurred due to an Iranian surface-to-air missile, adding that it "may well have been unintentional".

Ukrainian airliner crash in Iran killed all 176 people on board. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau citing intelligence said on Thursday that the crash had occurred due to an Iranian surface-to-air missile, adding that it "may well have been unintentional". Washington had concluded that with the high degree of certainty that anti-aircraft missiles brought down the plane. Read more The US believes Iran shot down the plane by mistake. Read more The plane was airborne for two minutes after departing Tehran when the heat signatures of two surface-to-air missiles were detected. Read more US President Donald Trump said he did not believe the crash of the airliner was due to a mechanical issue. Read more The Ukrainian airliner took off at 6:12 am on Tuesday and was given permission to climb to 26,000 feet (7,925 m). It crashed six minutes later near the town of Sabashahr. Read more Iran has formally invited the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to take part in its investigation and the agency has agreed to assign an investigator. Read More Boeing is still reeling from two deadly crashes of 737 MAX planes in five months that led to the plane's grounding in March 2019. The 737-800 that crashed was built in 2016 and is the prior generation of the 737 before the MAX. Boeing has built about 5,000 of those planes, which have a good safety record. Read more The FAA had banned US carriers from operating in the airspace over Iraq, Iran, the Gulf of Oman and the waters between Iran and Saudi Arabia in the hours after Iran's attack on US-led forces in Iraq. Several other airlines also diverted flights. Read more Watch Video:

Iran plane crash news: Iran formally invites US transport board to investigate Boeing airliner crash

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/looks-like-theres-truth-to-meghan-markle-prince-harry-moving-to-canada-after-palace-refuses-to-deny-it-273019">British monarchy </a>scrambled Thursday to find urgent "workable solutions" for Prince Harry and his wife Meghan after their bombshell decision to quit front-line duties caught the royal family off guard. 
 
Queen Elizabeth II, heir to the &nbsp;throne Prince Charles and his eldest son Prince William, Harry's brother, have ordered their aides to work with Harry's household and Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government to come up with swift answers to the royal crisis. 
 
"The Queen, the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Cambridge have directed their teams to work together at pace with government and the Sussex household to find workable solutions," a Buckingham Palace source said, according to multiple British media outlets. 
This process is "expected to take days, not weeks", the source added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/madame-tussauds-removes-waxworks-of-harry-and-meghan-from-royal-family-display-273256">Madame Tussauds removes waxworks of Harry and Meghan from royal family display</a> 
 
Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, rocked the monarchy on Wednesday with an announcement made without consulting any senior royals from the sovereign downwards. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meet-the-half-royals-prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-how-will-the-separation-from-the-family-work-out-for-the-couple-273295">Meet the half royals;&nbsp;how will the separation from the family work out for the couple?</a> 
 
The couple said they would now "balance" their time between Britain and North America, rip up long-established relations with the press, and seek financial independence. 
 
They released their shock statement on a pre-prepared new website, their Instagram account and through Buckingham Palace's email communications system. 
 
An hour and 40 minutes later, the palace, seemingly rattled, issued a brief statement of its own, saying discussions were at an early stage and involved "complicated issues". 
 
The mood in the palace was understood to be one of disappointment and even "hurt", according to the BBC, while Thursday's newspapers were full of reports of a family "split" and the queen's "dismay". 
 
London's Evening Standard newspaper said they had "defied clear instructions from the queen" not to go public about any future plans at this time. 
 
It added senior courtiers had warned the couple "will be punished for this". 
 
Meanwhile Madame Tussauds London said it was moving its waxworks of the pair away from other top family figures "to reflect the upcoming change in the royal line-up". 
 
- 'Going Rogue' - 
 
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams said Harry and Meghan announcing this step without the 93-year-old monarch's blessing was "extraordinary". 
 
"This is symptomatic, clearly, of the fact that they are unhappy with royal roles and feel deeply pressurised," he told AFP. 
 
"They've chosen to... go rogue. The result, therefore, could have very serious consequences." 
 
The couple's decision follows a turbulent year, in which they admitted to struggling in the spotlight, and growing apart from William. 
They have also lashed out at negative news coverage and taken several papers to court -- another unusual move. 
 
"We intend to step back as 'senior' members of the royal family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen," they said. 
 
"We have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution." 
 
Meanwhile on their new website, they said they would no longer work with the royal rota -- a well-established system whereby media access is facilitated and the press take turns covering events and share the coverage. 
 
Instead the pair will attempt to invite only "specialist", "grassroots", "credible" and "young, up-and-coming" media to events. 
Royal analysts said the changes were unprecedented for senior family members. 
 
"We would have them as members of the royal family carrying out some official duties but also operating privately as well, and there isn't really a precedent for that," said expert Victoria Murphy. 
 
Britons passing Buckingham Palace on Thursday appeared surprised at the news. &nbsp; 
 
"They both knew what they were getting into and I think that they need to meet that challenge," said Roger Sainsbury, a member of the armed forces. 
 
- 'Different paths' - 
 
Harry, 35, and Meghan, 38, are among the core members of the royal family and -- along with William and his wife Kate -- are seen as embodying the monarchy's future. 
 
They <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markle-prince-harry-to-miss-christmas-in-uk-this-year-262066">spent six weeks over Christmas in Canada</a> after speaking of the pressure of being in the spotlight following their fairytale wedding at Windsor Castle in May 2018 and son Archie's birth 12 months later.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-and-meghan-markles-possible-move-might-affect-canadian-taxpayers-273290">Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's possible move might affect Canadian taxpayers</a> 
 
They skipped the royal family's traditional Christmas at Sandringham, the sovereign's private estate in eastern England, spending the festive season instead with Meghan's US mother Doria Ragland. 
 
Rumours that all was not well with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex surfaced in October when Harry -- sixth in line to the throne -- admitted that he and William were "on different paths" and had good and bad days in their relationship. 
 
Asked whether she was "not really OK" and if life had "really been a struggle" after becoming a mother and living under intense media scrutiny, Meghan appeared emotional and replied simply: "Yes."

The British monarchy scrambled Thursday to find urgent "workable solutions" for Prince Harry and his wife Meghan after their bombshell decision to quit front-line duties caught the royal family off guard.

The British monarchy scrambled Thursday to find urgent "workable solutions" for Prince Harry and his wife Meghan after their bombshell decision to quit front-line duties caught the royal family off guard. Queen Elizabeth II, heir to the throne Prince Charles and his eldest son Prince William, Harry's brother, have ordered their aides to work with Harry's household and Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government to come up with swift answers to the royal crisis. "The Queen, the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Cambridge have directed their teams to work together at pace with government and the Sussex household to find workable solutions," a Buckingham Palace source said, according to multiple British media outlets. This process is "expected to take days, not weeks", the source added. Madame Tussauds removes waxworks of Harry and Meghan from royal family display Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, rocked the monarchy on Wednesday with an announcement made without consulting any senior royals from the sovereign downwards. Meet the half royals; how will the separation from the family work out for the couple? The couple said they would now "balance" their time between Britain and North America, rip up long-established relations with the press, and seek financial independence. They released their shock statement on a pre-prepared new website, their Instagram account and through Buckingham Palace's email communications system. An hour and 40 minutes later, the palace, seemingly rattled, issued a brief statement of its own, saying discussions were at an early stage and involved "complicated issues". The mood in the palace was understood to be one of disappointment and even "hurt", according to the BBC, while Thursday's newspapers were full of reports of a family "split" and the queen's "dismay". London's Evening Standard newspaper said they had "defied clear instructions from the queen" not to go public about any future plans at this time. It added senior courtiers had warned the couple "will be punished for this". Meanwhile Madame Tussauds London said it was moving its waxworks of the pair away from other top family figures "to reflect the upcoming change in the royal line-up". - 'Going Rogue' - Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams said Harry and Meghan announcing this step without the 93-year-old monarch's blessing was "extraordinary". "This is symptomatic, clearly, of the fact that they are unhappy with royal roles and feel deeply pressurised," he told AFP. "They've chosen to... go rogue. The result, therefore, could have very serious consequences." The couple's decision follows a turbulent year, in which they admitted to struggling in the spotlight, and growing apart from William. They have also lashed out at negative news coverage and taken several papers to court -- another unusual move. "We intend to step back as 'senior' members of the royal family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen," they said. "We have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution." Meanwhile on their new website, they said they would no longer work with the royal rota -- a well-established system whereby media access is facilitated and the press take turns covering events and share the coverage. Instead the pair will attempt to invite only "specialist", "grassroots", "credible" and "young, up-and-coming" media to events. Royal analysts said the changes were unprecedented for senior family members. "We would have them as members of the royal family carrying out some official duties but also operating privately as well, and there isn't really a precedent for that," said expert Victoria Murphy. Britons passing Buckingham Palace on Thursday appeared surprised at the news. "They both knew what they were getting into and I think that they need to meet that challenge," said Roger Sainsbury, a member of the armed forces. - 'Different paths' - Harry, 35, and Meghan, 38, are among the core members of the royal family and -- along with William and his wife Kate -- are seen as embodying the monarchy's future. They spent six weeks over Christmas in Canada after speaking of the pressure of being in the spotlight following their fairytale wedding at Windsor Castle in May 2018 and son Archie's birth 12 months later. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's possible move might affect Canadian taxpayers They skipped the royal family's traditional Christmas at Sandringham, the sovereign's private estate in eastern England, spending the festive season instead with Meghan's US mother Doria Ragland. Rumours that all was not well with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex surfaced in October when Harry -- sixth in line to the throne -- admitted that he and William were "on different paths" and had good and bad days in their relationship. Asked whether she was "not really OK" and if life had "really been a struggle" after becoming a mother and living under intense media scrutiny, Meghan appeared emotional and replied simply: "Yes."

As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announce separation, UK monarchy scrambles for solution

As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their decision to step away from senior roles in the royal family and shift base to Canada, security experts of the country now feel that the couple's move could prove to be costly for Canadian taxpayers. The taxpayers could be on the hook for millions of dollars a year in security expenses due to the couple, security experts said. 
 
The couple, formally known as the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-meghan-markle-quit-royal-front-line-in-shock-move-273083"> Duke and Duchess of Sussex</a>, stunned Queen Elizabeth and the rest of the royal family this week by saying they plan to spend much of their time in North America. 
 
While the pair have not said where in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/looks-like-theres-truth-to-meghan-markle-prince-harry-moving-to-canada-after-palace-refuses-to-deny-it-273019">North America they planned to reside</a>, many observers pointed to Canada as a logical choice. The couple spent the last six weeks of 2019 in that nation, part of the British Commonwealth of countries that have the queen as their head of state. 
 
The Canadian government would likely have a legal obligation to provide them with security because of their royal status, security experts said. 
 
"I don`t believe they can refuse the government of Canada`s security," said Larry Busch, an ex-Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer who directed security for world leaders including U.S. presidents and the royal family.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meghan-markle-zendaya-kylie-jenner-more-among-the-top-10-most-influential-dressers-of-2019-see-pics-263682">Also see:&nbsp;Meghan Markle named top fashion icon of 2019 dethroning Kylie Jenner</a> 
 
The cost could easily run into the millions of dollars, said Mike Zimet, whose eponymous New York executive security firm has protected clients including US&nbsp;Senator Bernie Sanders and actors Lin-Manuel Miranda and Alec Baldwin.&nbsp; 
 
"If they want private protection, then a whole machine needs to be built around them," he said. 
 
The level of security they need would be defined by a threat assessment, said Joe Balz, president of GloProSec Preventative Services, a Toronto-based security company, and an ex-RCMP officer who has worked with the royal family and other heads of state in the past. 
 
"There`s always going to be the odd idiot who causes some type of problem," Balz said, adding that they would be safer in Canada than in the United States, where gun laws are much laxer. 
 
Prince Harry and Meghan have said gaining financial autonomy is a key goal, but declined to say whether this extends to the cost of security, stating that their security detail is mandated by the British Home Office. 
 
They also would need to worry about kidnapping of their son, Archie, said Zimet, who called that threat a "major situation, especially when it comes to terrorists. Kidnap a kid, hold them for ransom, what are the parents going to do?" 
 
A poll for Canadian news company Postmedia found that more than 60 percent of the 1,515 Canadians surveyed would support the appointment of Prince Harry as governor general, the queen`s representative in Canada, who acts as the head of state on her behalf. 
The poll was conducted on January 6, two days before the couple announced their plan to move away from their senior royal roles.

As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their decision to step away from senior roles in the royal family and shift base to Canada, security experts of the country now feel that the couple's move could prove to be costly for Canadian taxpayers.

As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their decision to step away from senior roles in the royal family and shift base to Canada, security experts of the country now feel that the couple's move could prove to be costly for Canadian taxpayers. The taxpayers could be on the hook for millions of dollars a year in security expenses due to the couple, security experts said. The couple, formally known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, stunned Queen Elizabeth and the rest of the royal family this week by saying they plan to spend much of their time in North America. While the pair have not said where in North America they planned to reside, many observers pointed to Canada as a logical choice. The couple spent the last six weeks of 2019 in that nation, part of the British Commonwealth of countries that have the queen as their head of state. The Canadian government would likely have a legal obligation to provide them with security because of their royal status, security experts said. "I don`t believe they can refuse the government of Canada`s security," said Larry Busch, an ex-Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer who directed security for world leaders including U.S. presidents and the royal family.Also see: Meghan Markle named top fashion icon of 2019 dethroning Kylie Jenner The cost could easily run into the millions of dollars, said Mike Zimet, whose eponymous New York executive security firm has protected clients including US Senator Bernie Sanders and actors Lin-Manuel Miranda and Alec Baldwin. "If they want private protection, then a whole machine needs to be built around them," he said. The level of security they need would be defined by a threat assessment, said Joe Balz, president of GloProSec Preventative Services, a Toronto-based security company, and an ex-RCMP officer who has worked with the royal family and other heads of state in the past. "There`s always going to be the odd idiot who causes some type of problem," Balz said, adding that they would be safer in Canada than in the United States, where gun laws are much laxer. Prince Harry and Meghan have said gaining financial autonomy is a key goal, but declined to say whether this extends to the cost of security, stating that their security detail is mandated by the British Home Office. They also would need to worry about kidnapping of their son, Archie, said Zimet, who called that threat a "major situation, especially when it comes to terrorists. Kidnap a kid, hold them for ransom, what are the parents going to do?" A poll for Canadian news company Postmedia found that more than 60 percent of the 1,515 Canadians surveyed would support the appointment of Prince Harry as governor general, the queen`s representative in Canada, who acts as the head of state on her behalf. The poll was conducted on January 6, two days before the couple announced their plan to move away from their senior royal roles.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's possible move might affect Canadian taxpayers

Trevor Noah had a good laugh on Thursday at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's expense. The South African comedian took sly digs at the royal couple hours after they announced their decision to step back from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-meghan-markle-quit-royal-front-line-in-shock-move-273083">senior roles in the royal family.&nbsp;</a>

Reacting to the news on 'The Daily Show', Trevor jokingly suggested that it seems like it was Meghan's idea.&nbsp;

“This is what happens when you bring the first black woman into the Royal Family,” Trevor quipped and added, "She looked at Harry and was like, ‘You need a job! You a grown a** man, you can’t still be living in your momma’s house, Harry.'"

Trevor also pointed out that no matter what job Prince Harry took up, his royal title would never leave him.&nbsp;

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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are leaving the royal palace to become financially independent. <a href="https://t.co/FlLC4YSTFj">pic.twitter.com/FlLC4YSTFj</a>
— The Daily Show (@TheDailyShow) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheDailyShow/status/1215319991026880512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"What’s funny is that, no matter what job Prince Harry gets, you realise that he’s still gonna be Prince Harry.&nbsp;

“Can you imagine being his boss when he screws up? What do you call him in and say? ‘Prince Harry, get in here, your majesty. You blew the Henderson account, my lord, clean out your desk and may God save the Queen.’”

The official Twitter handle of 'The Daily Show' also tweeted a 'We're hiring' post taking a direct jab at the royal couple.&nbsp;

According to the hilarious post, the prospective candidates need to speak "impeccable English, be good at waving at people, should have 2+ years experience as a member of a Royal Family' and should be willing to host 'work parties' at a castle or manor.&nbsp;

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🚨 WE’RE HIRING 🚨 <a href="https://t.co/c7aJ6jjsS1">pic.twitter.com/c7aJ6jjsS1</a>
— The Daily Show (@TheDailyShow) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheDailyShow/status/1215014341491220481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Prince Harry and Meghan's decision took the royal family by surprise and they are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/as-prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-announce-separation-uk-monarchy-scrambles-for-solution-273323">reportedly scrambling for solutions. </a>The couple has not specified where they would be settling outside of Britain, but speculations are rife that the two plan to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/looks-like-theres-truth-to-meghan-markle-prince-harry-moving-to-canada-after-palace-refuses-to-deny-it-273019">make Canada their home</a>, where they spent fi<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markle-prince-harry-to-miss-christmas-in-uk-this-year-262066">ve weeks during Christmas 2019.&nbsp;</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-and-meghan-markles-possible-move-might-affect-canadian-taxpayers-273290">Read:&nbsp;Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's possible move might affect Canadian taxpayers</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markel-goes-back-to-canada-to-be-with-son-archie-after-royal-rift-273376">Meghan Markle goes back to Canada to be with son Archie after royal rift</a>

&nbsp;

Trevor Noah had a good laugh on Thursday at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's expense. The South African comedian took sly digs at the royal couple hours after they announced their decision to step back from senior roles in the royal family.

Trevor Noah had a good laugh on Thursday at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's expense. The South African comedian took sly digs at the royal couple hours after they announced their decision to step back from senior roles in the royal family. Reacting to the news on 'The Daily Show', Trevor jokingly suggested that it seems like it was Meghan's idea. “This is what happens when you bring the first black woman into the Royal Family,” Trevor quipped and added, "She looked at Harry and was like, ‘You need a job! You a grown a** man, you can’t still be living in your momma’s house, Harry.'" Trevor also pointed out that no matter what job Prince Harry took up, his royal title would never leave him. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are leaving the royal palace to become financially independent. pic.twitter.com/FlLC4YSTFj — The Daily Show (@TheDailyShow) January 9, 2020 × "What’s funny is that, no matter what job Prince Harry gets, you realise that he’s still gonna be Prince Harry. “Can you imagine being his boss when he screws up? What do you call him in and say? ‘Prince Harry, get in here, your majesty. You blew the Henderson account, my lord, clean out your desk and may God save the Queen.’” The official Twitter handle of 'The Daily Show' also tweeted a 'We're hiring' post taking a direct jab at the royal couple. According to the hilarious post, the prospective candidates need to speak "impeccable English, be good at waving at people, should have 2+ years experience as a member of a Royal Family' and should be willing to host 'work parties' at a castle or manor. 🚨 WE’RE HIRING 🚨 pic.twitter.com/c7aJ6jjsS1 — The Daily Show (@TheDailyShow) January 8, 2020 × Prince Harry and Meghan's decision took the royal family by surprise and they are reportedly scrambling for solutions. The couple has not specified where they would be settling outside of Britain, but speculations are rife that the two plan to make Canada their home, where they spent five weeks during Christmas 2019. Read: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's possible move might affect Canadian taxpayers Meghan Markle goes back to Canada to be with son Archie after royal rift

'Should be good at waving': Trevor Noah has a job offer for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

Amid row over the crash of Ukrainian plane in Tehran, Iran's civil aviation chief Ali Abedzadeh said on Friday he was "certain" that the aircraft was not hit by a missile.&nbsp;

"One thing is for certain, this airplane was not hit by a missile," Abedzadeh said in a press conference.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intelligence-evidence-indicates-boeing-airliner-was-shot-down-by-iranian-surface-to-air-missile-trudeau-273282">Intelligence evidence indicates Boeing airliner was shot down by Iranian surface-to-air missile: Trudeau</a>

Iran's civil aviation chief's statements came after Britain and Canada claimed that intelligence sources suggested a catastrophic error by Iranian air defence batteries had crashed the aircraft.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-iran-shoot-down-the-ukrainian-jet-273279/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-rumours-missile-caused-plane-crash-make-no-sense-273278">Iran says rumours missile caused plane crash make 'no sense'</a>

Abedzadeh also said that "any remarks made before the data is extracted ... is not an expert opinion."

Earlier, a video was surfaced that showed the moment the airliner was hit.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-us-plane-crash-news-updates-iran-formally-invites-us-transport-board-to-investigate-boeing-airliner-crash-273301">Iran plane crash news: Iran formally invites US transport board to investigate Boeing airliner crash</a>

New York Times claimed that it has verified the footage, which shows a rapidly-moving object rising to an angle into the sky before a flash is noticed, which dims and continues moving forward. After several seconds, an explosion is heard.&nbsp;

"We have seen some videos. We confirm that the airplane was on fire for 60 to 70 seconds," Abedzadeh said.&nbsp;

But to say "that it was hit by something cannot be scientifically correct," the aviation chief added.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed that probe from multiple agencies showed that the plane was crashed after it was shot down by an Iranian missile.

63 Canadians were amongst the 176 people that were killed in the crash.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson also backed Trudeau's claims and said that the missile targetting the aircraft "may well have been unintentional."

The Ukranian airlines' Boeing 737 crashed after taking off from Tehran on Wednesday, nearly at the same time when Iran claimed it fired two missiles on US airbases in Iraq.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Amid row over the crash of Ukrainian plane in Tehran, Iran's civil aviation chief Ali Abedzadeh said on Friday he was "certain" that the aircraft was not hit by a missile.

Amid row over the crash of Ukrainian plane in Tehran, Iran's civil aviation chief Ali Abedzadeh said on Friday he was "certain" that the aircraft was not hit by a missile. "One thing is for certain, this airplane was not hit by a missile," Abedzadeh said in a press conference. Also read: Intelligence evidence indicates Boeing airliner was shot down by Iranian surface-to-air missile: Trudeau Iran's civil aviation chief's statements came after Britain and Canada claimed that intelligence sources suggested a catastrophic error by Iranian air defence batteries had crashed the aircraft. Watch: Also read: Iran says rumours missile caused plane crash make 'no sense' Abedzadeh also said that "any remarks made before the data is extracted ... is not an expert opinion." Earlier, a video was surfaced that showed the moment the airliner was hit. Also read: Iran plane crash news: Iran formally invites US transport board to investigate Boeing airliner crash New York Times claimed that it has verified the footage, which shows a rapidly-moving object rising to an angle into the sky before a flash is noticed, which dims and continues moving forward. After several seconds, an explosion is heard. "We have seen some videos. We confirm that the airplane was on fire for 60 to 70 seconds," Abedzadeh said. But to say "that it was hit by something cannot be scientifically correct," the aviation chief added. On Thursday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed that probe from multiple agencies showed that the plane was crashed after it was shot down by an Iranian missile. 63 Canadians were amongst the 176 people that were killed in the crash. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson also backed Trudeau's claims and said that the missile targetting the aircraft "may well have been unintentional." The Ukranian airlines' Boeing 737 crashed after taking off from Tehran on Wednesday, nearly at the same time when Iran claimed it fired two missiles on US airbases in Iraq. (with inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian aircraft was not hit by a missile: Iran's civil aviation chief

Tragedy that shocked the world: Justin Trudeau

The crash, which occurred the same night that Iran launched missile attacks against Iraqi military bases that house U.S. troops, resulted in the death of all 176 people on board, including at least 63 Canadians.

Canada’s Justin Trudeau says evidence indicates Iranians shot down plane

Institute for Economics and Peace ranks the most peaceful countries

Fractured manadate in Canada to test ties with India. #WIONEdit #Khalistanis #Canada #JagmeetSingh

Wion Edit: Is Canada silently surrendering itself to Khalistanis?

Khalistan sympathiser & leader of Canada's NDP Jagmeet Singh's comments on CAA sparks a furore. #CAA #Gravitas #JagmeetSinghOnCAA

Gravitas: Jagmeet Singh: CAA is wrong

A profile of Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canada's new Democratic Party. #Gravitas #JagmeetSingh #Canada

Gravitas: Jagmeet Singh: Trudeau's headache?

US President Donald Trump's scene from 1990s cult classic 'Home Alone 2: Lost In New York' has been deleted from the film in the version that is being aired on Canada's national broadcaster CBC.&nbsp;

CBC spokesman Chuck Thompson has stated that eight minutes from the 120-minute film had been trimmed to make way for commercials. 
 
The channel has stated that deleting Trump's scene was not in any way politically motivated and that the edit was made long before Trump was elected at the President of the United States.&nbsp;

The edited film was shown by CBC earlier this month and drew a lot of flak from Trump's supporters for the channel. 
&nbsp; 
His son Donald Trump Jr tweeted a link to a story on Thursday that called the edit 'pathetic'.

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— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) <a href="https://twitter.com/DonaldJTrumpJr/status/1210228197180297216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Later, President Trump reacted to the edit and tweeted that "the movie will never be the same! (just kidding)".

Referring to several disagreements on policies with Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, Trump further added, "I guess Justin T doesn't much like my making him pay up on Nato or trade!"

On Christmas Eve, Mr Trump addressed US troops overseas via a video conference and referred 'Home Alone 2' as "a big Christmas hit".&nbsp;

"Well I'm in 'Home Alone 2'," Mr Trump said. "A lot of people mention it every year, especially around Christmas. They say - especially young kids- they say, 'I just saw you on the movie.' They don't see me on television as they do in the movie.

"But it's been a good movie and I was a little younger, to put it mildly. And it was an honour to do it."

Released in 1992, the film starred Macaulay Culkin in the lead. Trump shared a frame with Culkin, where the latter's character Kevin arrives at New York's Plaza Hotel and asks Trump for direction. Trump was the owner of the hotel at that point in time.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump's scene from 1990s cult classic 'Home Alone 2: Lost In New York' has been deleted from the film in the version that is being aired on Canada's national broadcaster CBC.

US President Donald Trump's scene from 1990s cult classic 'Home Alone 2: Lost In New York' has been deleted from the film in the version that is being aired on Canada's national broadcaster CBC. CBC spokesman Chuck Thompson has stated that eight minutes from the 120-minute film had been trimmed to make way for commercials. The channel has stated that deleting Trump's scene was not in any way politically motivated and that the edit was made long before Trump was elected at the President of the United States. The edited film was shown by CBC earlier this month and drew a lot of flak from Trump's supporters for the channel. His son Donald Trump Jr tweeted a link to a story on Thursday that called the edit 'pathetic'. ‘Pathetic’: Canada’s CBC under fire when Trump’s cameo in ‘Home Alone 2’ disappears from Christmas broadcast https://t.co/zJUij9qrLe — Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) December 26, 2019 × Later, President Trump reacted to the edit and tweeted that "the movie will never be the same! (just kidding)". Referring to several disagreements on policies with Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, Trump further added, "I guess Justin T doesn't much like my making him pay up on Nato or trade!" On Christmas Eve, Mr Trump addressed US troops overseas via a video conference and referred 'Home Alone 2' as "a big Christmas hit". "Well I'm in 'Home Alone 2'," Mr Trump said. "A lot of people mention it every year, especially around Christmas. They say - especially young kids- they say, 'I just saw you on the movie.' They don't see me on television as they do in the movie. "But it's been a good movie and I was a little younger, to put it mildly. And it was an honour to do it." Released in 1992, the film starred Macaulay Culkin in the lead. Trump shared a frame with Culkin, where the latter's character Kevin arrives at New York's Plaza Hotel and asks Trump for direction. Trump was the owner of the hotel at that point in time.

Canadian channel deletes Donald Trump's scene from 'Home Alone 2'; claim it's not politically motivated

Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh has strongly condemned the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) which has triggered widespread protests in India. His comments have sparked a furore, online and offline.

This could have a bearing on the India-Canada relationship. Since Justin Trudeau came to power in 2013, things haven't been smooth sailing. Jagmeet Singh's NDP is the only party Trudeau can count on. Trudeau will court Jagmeet Singh to get his bills passed. This complicates Canada's relationship with India.

Discussions on Jagmeet Singh often fall under the 'grey' category. Soon after Jagmeet Singh became the leader of NDP in October 2017, he gave an interview to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC).&nbsp;

In the interview, Singh was quizzed repeatedly on his view on Talwinder Singh Parmar - the Khalistani terrorist who orchestrated the Air India bombing in 1985. Not once did he take a stand.

On the issue of terrorism, Jagmeet Singh's record is far from being acceptable. And now he's a political heavyweight whom the Canadian PM cannot ignore.

New Delhi has been observing what's happening in Canada. India can only offer to revive ties, Canada has to meet India at the half-way mark.&nbsp;

Local political compulsions could derail Trudeau's India strategy. Especially with a pro-Khalistani voice having a major say in the country's politics. There is a stark difference between how Canadian Sikhs view the issue and how Indian Sikhs see it.

Jagmeet Singh supports the Khalistani cause. Even if it is only to earn brownie points among his voters. As long as the Canadian government relies on Jagmeet Singh, there is a real risk of Canada surrendering itself to Khalistani separatists.

As long as Khalistani sympathisers threatening India exist in the power centres of Canada, the bilateral ties will suffer.

Now, the ball is in Trudeau's court. Does Trudeau value the 'historically strong' ties with India? Or would he court parties that interfere in India's sovereignty?

The answer to this question alone will define the future of this relationship. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh has strongly condemned the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) which has triggered widespread protests in India.

Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh has strongly condemned the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) which has triggered widespread protests in India. His comments have sparked a furore, online and offline. This could have a bearing on the India-Canada relationship. Since Justin Trudeau came to power in 2013, things haven't been smooth sailing. Jagmeet Singh's NDP is the only party Trudeau can count on. Trudeau will court Jagmeet Singh to get his bills passed. This complicates Canada's relationship with India. Discussions on Jagmeet Singh often fall under the 'grey' category. Soon after Jagmeet Singh became the leader of NDP in October 2017, he gave an interview to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). In the interview, Singh was quizzed repeatedly on his view on Talwinder Singh Parmar - the Khalistani terrorist who orchestrated the Air India bombing in 1985. Not once did he take a stand. On the issue of terrorism, Jagmeet Singh's record is far from being acceptable. And now he's a political heavyweight whom the Canadian PM cannot ignore. New Delhi has been observing what's happening in Canada. India can only offer to revive ties, Canada has to meet India at the half-way mark. Local political compulsions could derail Trudeau's India strategy. Especially with a pro-Khalistani voice having a major say in the country's politics. There is a stark difference between how Canadian Sikhs view the issue and how Indian Sikhs see it. Jagmeet Singh supports the Khalistani cause. Even if it is only to earn brownie points among his voters. As long as the Canadian government relies on Jagmeet Singh, there is a real risk of Canada surrendering itself to Khalistani separatists. As long as Khalistani sympathisers threatening India exist in the power centres of Canada, the bilateral ties will suffer. Now, the ball is in Trudeau's court. Does Trudeau value the 'historically strong' ties with India? Or would he court parties that interfere in India's sovereignty? The answer to this question alone will define the future of this relationship. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Is Canada silently surrendering itself to Khalistanis?

An official from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/why-aung-san-suu-kyi-is-in-the-hague-defending-myanmar-against-allegations-of-genocide-267828">Aung San Suu Kyi</a>'s political party was killed in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-deportation-of-rakhine-insurgent-leaders-family-delayed-266973">Rakhine </a>state after planning a show of support for the leader's defence of Myanmar against genocide allegations at The Hague, a spokesman said Thursday.

The National League for Democracy's Ye Thein, party chairman in Buthidaung township, had been held for weeks by the Arakan Army, insurgents fighting for more autonomy for ethnic Rakhine Buddhists.

The rebels said he was killed in military attacks on Christmas day but the claim could not be verified and NLD spokesman Myo Nyunt said the group bore responsibility.

Ye Thein was detained on December 11 ahead of demonstrations backing Suu Kyi's high-profile opening statements at the UN's top court the same day.

"We, all members of NLD, are very sorry for the loss," Myo Nyunt told AFP. "His gathering to support her was righteous and it was not a crime."

The Arakan Army has carried out a series of daring kidnappings, bombings and raids against the army and local officials in Rakhine state.

Myanmar's military has hit back hard, deploying thousands of additional soldiers to the western state and carrying out what Amnesty International called enforced disappearances, torture and extrajudicial executions.

The clashes are taking place in the same area where the military drove around 740,000 Rohingya Muslims over the border to Bangladesh in a bloody 2017 campaign.

The small African, mainly Muslim state of Gambia opened arguments against Buddhist-majority Myanmar at the International Court of Justice on December 10 accusing it of breaching the 1948 UN genocide convention in its operations against the Rohingya.

Backed by the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-raonic-withdraws-from-canadas-davis-cup-team-261552">Canada</a> and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-world-cup-india-vs-netherlands-its-an-equal-contest-says-india-coach-harendra-singh-183679">Netherlands</a>, Gambia sought emergency measures to prevent further violence against the Rohingya, pending a fuller case that could take years.

The Arakan Army said ahead of the hearings that it endorsed the case in a rare display of solidarity with Rohingya who is seen in Myanmar as non-citizens.

Suu Kyi stunned observers when she agreed to lead a team to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-objects-to-ukraine-sea-dispute-case-in-the-hague-226002">The Hague</a> in mid-December to represent Myanmar.

The former democracy icon's reputation lies in tatters over the crisis but at home, she enjoys broad support and several events across the country were organised to cheer her on.

Suu Kyi said in her opening statement there was no proof of "genocidal intent" and said army operations were in response to Rohingya militant attacks.

An official from Aung San Suu Kyi's political party was killed in Rakhine state after planning a show of support for the leader's defence of Myanmar against genocide allegations at The Hague, a spokesman said Thursday.

An official from Aung San Suu Kyi's political party was killed in Rakhine state after planning a show of support for the leader's defence of Myanmar against genocide allegations at The Hague, a spokesman said Thursday. The National League for Democracy's Ye Thein, party chairman in Buthidaung township, had been held for weeks by the Arakan Army, insurgents fighting for more autonomy for ethnic Rakhine Buddhists. The rebels said he was killed in military attacks on Christmas day but the claim could not be verified and NLD spokesman Myo Nyunt said the group bore responsibility. Ye Thein was detained on December 11 ahead of demonstrations backing Suu Kyi's high-profile opening statements at the UN's top court the same day. "We, all members of NLD, are very sorry for the loss," Myo Nyunt told AFP. "His gathering to support her was righteous and it was not a crime." The Arakan Army has carried out a series of daring kidnappings, bombings and raids against the army and local officials in Rakhine state. Myanmar's military has hit back hard, deploying thousands of additional soldiers to the western state and carrying out what Amnesty International called enforced disappearances, torture and extrajudicial executions. The clashes are taking place in the same area where the military drove around 740,000 Rohingya Muslims over the border to Bangladesh in a bloody 2017 campaign. The small African, mainly Muslim state of Gambia opened arguments against Buddhist-majority Myanmar at the International Court of Justice on December 10 accusing it of breaching the 1948 UN genocide convention in its operations against the Rohingya. Backed by the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Canada and the Netherlands, Gambia sought emergency measures to prevent further violence against the Rohingya, pending a fuller case that could take years. The Arakan Army said ahead of the hearings that it endorsed the case in a rare display of solidarity with Rohingya who is seen in Myanmar as non-citizens. Suu Kyi stunned observers when she agreed to lead a team to The Hague in mid-December to represent Myanmar. The former democracy icon's reputation lies in tatters over the crisis but at home, she enjoys broad support and several events across the country were organised to cheer her on. Suu Kyi said in her opening statement there was no proof of "genocidal intent" and said army operations were in response to Rohingya militant attacks.

Aung San Suu Kyi party official killed in Myanmar's Rakhine

An&nbsp;earthquake&nbsp;of&nbsp;magnitude&nbsp;6.3&nbsp;struck 177 km (109.98 miles)&nbsp;west&nbsp;of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-67-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-off-british-columbia-no-casualties-reported-172768">Port&nbsp;Hardy</a>, British Columbia,&nbsp;Canada&nbsp;on Tuesday, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-killed-as-earthquake-strikes-southern-philippines-268381">US&nbsp;Geological Survey</a> said.

There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage from the quake, which was 10 km deep.

According to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tremors-felt-in-delhi-national-capital-region-269364">European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre</a> (EMSC), the quake struck 518 kms&nbsp;west&nbsp;of Vancouver.

There is no current tsunami warning in effect, according to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.

An earthquake of magnitude 6.3 struck 177 km (109.98 miles) west of Port Hardy, British Columbia, Canada on Tuesday, the US Geological Survey said. There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage from the quake, which was 10 km deep.

An earthquake of magnitude 6.3 struck 177 km (109.98 miles) west of Port Hardy, British Columbia, Canada on Tuesday, the US Geological Survey said. There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage from the quake, which was 10 km deep. According to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), the quake struck 518 kms west of Vancouver. There is no current tsunami warning in effect, according to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.

Earthquake of magnitude 6.3 strikes west of Port Hardy, Canada

A panel of judges reserved its&nbsp;decision&nbsp;on Wednesday after hearing arguments from indigenous groups that the Canadian government had failed to properly consult them on expanding its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thunberg-brings-her-climate-protest-to-canadas-oil-patch-256810">oil&nbsp;pipeline</a>.

The&nbsp;challenge&nbsp;to the Federal&nbsp;Court&nbsp;of Appeal is the latest obstacle to tripling capacity on the Alberta-to-British Columbia Trans Mountain&nbsp;pipeline, which the Canadian&nbsp;oil&nbsp;industry says is badly needed.

"It feels like an acrimonious divorce. Obviously there’s a lot of tension here,” Chief Justice Marc Noël said, before saying the judges needed time to make a&nbsp;decision&nbsp;after a three-day hearing.

The operator of&nbsp;Canada's state-owned&nbsp;oil&nbsp;pipeline&nbsp;had asked the&nbsp;court&nbsp;to dismiss the legal&nbsp;challenge&nbsp;by four indigenous groups.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Canada approves oil pipeline expansion, says construction should start soon

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The indigenous groups "did not negotiate in good faith, or at all," Trans Mountain Corp&nbsp;lawyer Maureen Killoran said. Effectively, the groups are attempting to hold a veto over the C$10 billion project despite the government's best attempts to address their concerns, she said.

"This was not a drive-by consultation," Killoran said.

Coldwater Indian Band, one of the four groups, refused to allow drilling for a hydro-geological study to determine risks to its aquifer, she said. The band said earlier this week that protecting its drinking water was its main concern.

The indigenous groups alleged that the Canadian government shared key reports on the project's impact late, or even after the consultation period and that it revised documents. Their concerns include possible&nbsp;oil&nbsp;spills and threats to endangered southern resident killer whales.

Ottawa bought the&nbsp;pipeline&nbsp;last year to ensure expansion proceeded, offering a lifeline to Alberta's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-canadian-national-railway-workers-go-on-strike-263133">struggling&nbsp;oil&nbsp;patch</a>. Congested&nbsp;pipelines have forced the Alberta provincial government to curtail production.

A&nbsp;court&nbsp;ruled in August 2018 that Ottawa had failed to properly consult indigenous people, prompting the government to redo the consultation process before reapproving the expansion in June. But in September, the&nbsp;Court&nbsp;of Appeal agreed to hear fresh concerns that the government fell short again.

In a written submission, Alberta's government said consultation for Trans Mountain was more extensive than that of any other Canadian infrastructure project, and federal approval should remain in place.

"Regulatory instability and legal uncertainty negatively affect reliable planning and put a chill on investor confidence," lawyers for Alberta's attorney general wrote.

"Consultation is unworkable when, as in this case, it appears the only compromise acceptable to an indigenous group is the abandonment of the project," they added.

A panel of judges reserved its decision on Wednesday after hearing arguments from indigenous groups that the Canadian government had failed to properly consult them on expanding its oil pipeline.

A panel of judges reserved its decision on Wednesday after hearing arguments from indigenous groups that the Canadian government had failed to properly consult them on expanding its oil pipeline. The challenge to the Federal Court of Appeal is the latest obstacle to tripling capacity on the Alberta-to-British Columbia Trans Mountain pipeline, which the Canadian oil industry says is badly needed. "It feels like an acrimonious divorce. Obviously there’s a lot of tension here,” Chief Justice Marc Noël said, before saying the judges needed time to make a decision after a three-day hearing. The operator of Canada's state-owned oil pipeline had asked the court to dismiss the legal challenge by four indigenous groups. Also Watch: Canada approves oil pipeline expansion, says construction should start soon × The indigenous groups "did not negotiate in good faith, or at all," Trans Mountain Corp lawyer Maureen Killoran said. Effectively, the groups are attempting to hold a veto over the C$10 billion project despite the government's best attempts to address their concerns, she said. "This was not a drive-by consultation," Killoran said. Coldwater Indian Band, one of the four groups, refused to allow drilling for a hydro-geological study to determine risks to its aquifer, she said. The band said earlier this week that protecting its drinking water was its main concern. The indigenous groups alleged that the Canadian government shared key reports on the project's impact late, or even after the consultation period and that it revised documents. Their concerns include possible oil spills and threats to endangered southern resident killer whales. Ottawa bought the pipeline last year to ensure expansion proceeded, offering a lifeline to Alberta's struggling oil patch. Congested pipelines have forced the Alberta provincial government to curtail production. A court ruled in August 2018 that Ottawa had failed to properly consult indigenous people, prompting the government to redo the consultation process before reapproving the expansion in June. But in September, the Court of Appeal agreed to hear fresh concerns that the government fell short again. In a written submission, Alberta's government said consultation for Trans Mountain was more extensive than that of any other Canadian infrastructure project, and federal approval should remain in place. "Regulatory instability and legal uncertainty negatively affect reliable planning and put a chill on investor confidence," lawyers for Alberta's attorney general wrote. "Consultation is unworkable when, as in this case, it appears the only compromise acceptable to an indigenous group is the abandonment of the project," they added.

Court reserves decision on challenge to Canada oil pipeline

Sinclair, who helped Canada to bronze medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, has scored 183 times in 289 appearances for her country and sits one goal away from equalling American Abby Wambach's record of 184.

The 36-year-old striker will have an opportunity to surpass Wambach's mark in February when Canada attempts to secure a spot at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-unveils-50-official-sport-pictograms-202813">2020 Tokyo</a> Summer Games through the CONCACAF Women’s Olympic qualifying tournament.

"Christine Sinclair is a once-in-a-generation athlete that has been at the heart of Canadian sport for over 20 years but what she accomplished in the past 10 years has changed the sport forever in our country,” said Canada Soccer president Steven Reed in a statement.

“Christine is the Canada Soccer Player of the Decade and unquestionably one of the greatest and most-loved athletes Canada has ever watched."

The honour is the latest of many for Sinclair, who won the Lou Marsh Trophy as Canada's top athlete in 2012 and was Canada's flag bearer for the closing ceremony at the 2012 London Olympics.

A four-time finalist for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fifa-251742">FIFA</a> World Player of the Year, Sinclair has been crowned Canada soccer's female player of the year 14 times.

The first soccer player appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada and the first to have her name engraved on Canada’s Walk of Fame, Sinclair has played in five World Cups scoring 10 goals in 21 matches.

Sinclair, who helped Canada to bronze medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, has scored 183 times in 289 appearances for her country and sits one goal away from equalling American Abby Wambach's record of 184.

Sinclair, who helped Canada to bronze medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, has scored 183 times in 289 appearances for her country and sits one goal away from equalling American Abby Wambach's record of 184. The 36-year-old striker will have an opportunity to surpass Wambach's mark in February when Canada attempts to secure a spot at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Games through the CONCACAF Women’s Olympic qualifying tournament. "Christine Sinclair is a once-in-a-generation athlete that has been at the heart of Canadian sport for over 20 years but what she accomplished in the past 10 years has changed the sport forever in our country,” said Canada Soccer president Steven Reed in a statement. “Christine is the Canada Soccer Player of the Decade and unquestionably one of the greatest and most-loved athletes Canada has ever watched." The honour is the latest of many for Sinclair, who won the Lou Marsh Trophy as Canada's top athlete in 2012 and was Canada's flag bearer for the closing ceremony at the 2012 London Olympics. A four-time finalist for FIFA World Player of the Year, Sinclair has been crowned Canada soccer's female player of the year 14 times. The first soccer player appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada and the first to have her name engraved on Canada’s Walk of Fame, Sinclair has played in five World Cups scoring 10 goals in 21 matches.

Sinclair named Canada's soccer player of the decade

Nicole Walker was part of the four-member&nbsp;jumping&nbsp;team&nbsp;that finished fourth in the&nbsp;team&nbsp;event at the Pan Am Games in Lima to secure an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-imposes-four-year-ban-on-russia-over-doping-data-manipulation-267195">Olympic</a>&nbsp;berth for Canada in that event.

"My priority right now is to continue to fight for the&nbsp;Canadian&nbsp;Equestrian&nbsp;Team. The&nbsp;team&nbsp;deserves to go to the&nbsp;Olympics," said Walker, who is appealing the decision.

The FEI had provisionally suspended Walker from the sport after a sample taken from her on the day of the&nbsp;team&nbsp;final at the Pan Am Games in August tested positive for Benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine.

After a confirmatory analysis of the 'B' sample, Walker had a hearing two weeks ago with the Panam Sports Disciplinary Commission which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/laura-zeng-top-us-rhythmic-gymnast-handed-6-month-doping-ban-185462">disqualified</a> her results in both the individual and&nbsp;team&nbsp;competitions, according to the FEI.

The resulting calculation, which replaced Walker's score with that of&nbsp;team&nbsp;member Lisa Carlsen, dropped Canada three&nbsp;spots to seventh place and therefore cost the squad its&nbsp;team&nbsp;quota place for Tokyo, the FEI said.

Canada's&nbsp;spot&nbsp;in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-women-hockey-team-qualifies-for-tokyo-olympics-259565">2020&nbsp;Olympics</a> has now been reallocated to Argentina, which originally finished fifth in Lima.

"I am confident that&nbsp;Team&nbsp;Canada and Nicole will receive a fair hearing before the Court of Arbitration for Sport," Walker's lawyer, Tim Danson, said in a statement.

Equestrian Canada (EC) said it will support Walker through the appeals process.

"EC remains firmly committed to clean sport and to standing behind our athletes," the national governing body said in a statement. "We fully support Nicole's decision to bring an appeal forward to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)."

Nicole Walker was part of the four-member jumping team that finished fourth in the team event at the Pan Am Games in Lima to secure an Olympic berth for Canada in that event.

Nicole Walker was part of the four-member jumping team that finished fourth in the team event at the Pan Am Games in Lima to secure an Olympic berth for Canada in that event. "My priority right now is to continue to fight for the Canadian Equestrian Team. The team deserves to go to the Olympics," said Walker, who is appealing the decision. The FEI had provisionally suspended Walker from the sport after a sample taken from her on the day of the team final at the Pan Am Games in August tested positive for Benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine. After a confirmatory analysis of the 'B' sample, Walker had a hearing two weeks ago with the Panam Sports Disciplinary Commission which disqualified her results in both the individual and team competitions, according to the FEI. The resulting calculation, which replaced Walker's score with that of team member Lisa Carlsen, dropped Canada three spots to seventh place and therefore cost the squad its team quota place for Tokyo, the FEI said. Canada's spot in the 2020 Olympics has now been reallocated to Argentina, which originally finished fifth in Lima. "I am confident that Team Canada and Nicole will receive a fair hearing before the Court of Arbitration for Sport," Walker's lawyer, Tim Danson, said in a statement. Equestrian Canada (EC) said it will support Walker through the appeals process. "EC remains firmly committed to clean sport and to standing behind our athletes," the national governing body said in a statement. "We fully support Nicole's decision to bring an appeal forward to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)."

Canadian equestrian jumping team denied Olympic spot over doping violation

Three people dead in a plane crash in Gabriola island in Canada. Transport Canada suggests that their is a equipment issue in plane

Plane crashed in Gabriola island in Canada

The head of Canada's main opposition Conservatives quit on Thursday after losing an October election to Liberal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-trudeau-unveils-new-cabinet-with-focus-on-domestic-issues-263495">Prime Minister Justin Trudeau</a>, leaving the party in search of a more effective leader.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chastened-trudeau-to-reach-out-to-opponents-after-canada-election-blow-rules-out-coalition-257800">Andrew Scheer</a> said his resignation was "the best thing for our Conservative Party," adding that he would stay on in his role until a replacement was chosen. Scheer, 40, is a fiscal and social conservative who was first elected at age 25.

Scheer was under pressure over his failure to beat Trudeau, who opinion polls showed was vulnerable after a series of scandals. When pictures of Trudeau in blackface emerged during the campaign, Scheer got a bump in the polls that faded before election day.

It is unclear when the party will elect another leader. The country's most prominent Conservative, Alberta government head Jason Kenney, has no intention of running, said a well-placed Conservative source.

Dustin van Vugt, the Conservatives' executive director, denied a report by Global News saying Scheer quit after it was discovered he had secretly used party money to pay for private schooling for his children.

Van Vugt said the party did indeed pay school costs, but he said all the proper procedures had been followed.

Former Conservative Cabinet minister Peter MacKay, lawmaker Erin O'Toole, now the party's critic for foreign affairs, and former interim Conservative leader Rona Ambrose are other potential leadership candidates.

Garry Keller, Ambrose's former chief of staff, said Scheer would have faced a battle to hold onto his job.

"He either had to decide to fight to the end through a leadership race, or he could leave on his own volition. If he had stayed on, it would have been a bloody fight," said Keller.&nbsp;

October's election was the second in a row that the Conservatives lost to Trudeau.

Although <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-election-justin-trudeau-clings-to-power-but-loses-some-of-his-lustre-257402">Scheer won more votes</a>, his support was concentrated in Western provinces that have fewer parliamentary seats than Quebec and Ontario, where Trudeau prevailed.

Conservative critics complained Scheer's personal opposition to abortion and his reluctance to champion gay rights had hurt him among those who live in the eastern provinces of Canada.

"I felt it was time to put my family first," Scheer, a father of five, said when he announced his decision.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-leaders-including-trudeau-macron-caught-mocking-trump-on-camera-266158">Trudeau</a>, who has three children, thanked Scheer for his service and said he understood the difficulties of balancing the job with a family.

Trudeau lost his majority in the election and now must govern with the support of at least one opposition party. One senior Liberal source, who requested anonymity given the sensitivity of the situation, said chaos in the opposition was always good for the government.

But another well-placed Liberal said a leadership change could be problematic.

The resignation "relieves some of the short-term pressures, but the key question is, who replaces Scheer? If it's a superstar, then we have a problem", said the source.

The head of Canada's main opposition Conservatives quit on Thursday after losing an October election to Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, leaving the party in search of a more effective leader.

The head of Canada's main opposition Conservatives quit on Thursday after losing an October election to Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, leaving the party in search of a more effective leader. Andrew Scheer said his resignation was "the best thing for our Conservative Party," adding that he would stay on in his role until a replacement was chosen. Scheer, 40, is a fiscal and social conservative who was first elected at age 25. Scheer was under pressure over his failure to beat Trudeau, who opinion polls showed was vulnerable after a series of scandals. When pictures of Trudeau in blackface emerged during the campaign, Scheer got a bump in the polls that faded before election day. It is unclear when the party will elect another leader. The country's most prominent Conservative, Alberta government head Jason Kenney, has no intention of running, said a well-placed Conservative source. Dustin van Vugt, the Conservatives' executive director, denied a report by Global News saying Scheer quit after it was discovered he had secretly used party money to pay for private schooling for his children. Van Vugt said the party did indeed pay school costs, but he said all the proper procedures had been followed. Former Conservative Cabinet minister Peter MacKay, lawmaker Erin O'Toole, now the party's critic for foreign affairs, and former interim Conservative leader Rona Ambrose are other potential leadership candidates. Garry Keller, Ambrose's former chief of staff, said Scheer would have faced a battle to hold onto his job. "He either had to decide to fight to the end through a leadership race, or he could leave on his own volition. If he had stayed on, it would have been a bloody fight," said Keller. October's election was the second in a row that the Conservatives lost to Trudeau. Although Scheer won more votes, his support was concentrated in Western provinces that have fewer parliamentary seats than Quebec and Ontario, where Trudeau prevailed. Conservative critics complained Scheer's personal opposition to abortion and his reluctance to champion gay rights had hurt him among those who live in the eastern provinces of Canada. "I felt it was time to put my family first," Scheer, a father of five, said when he announced his decision. Trudeau, who has three children, thanked Scheer for his service and said he understood the difficulties of balancing the job with a family. Trudeau lost his majority in the election and now must govern with the support of at least one opposition party. One senior Liberal source, who requested anonymity given the sensitivity of the situation, said chaos in the opposition was always good for the government. But another well-placed Liberal said a leadership change could be problematic. The resignation "relieves some of the short-term pressures, but the key question is, who replaces Scheer? If it's a superstar, then we have a problem", said the source.

Leader of Canada's main opposition party quits after loss to Justin Trudeau

The world's first fully-electric commercial aircraft took its inaugural test flight on Tuesday, taking off from the Canadian city of Vancouver and offering hope that airlines may one day end their polluting emissions.

"This proves that commercial aviation in all-electric form can work," said Roei Ganzarski, chief executive of Seattle-based engineering firm magniX.

The company designed the plane's motor and worked in partnership with Harbour Air, which ferries half a million passengers a year between Vancouver, Whistler ski resort and nearby islands and coastal communities.

Ganzarski said the technology would mean significant cost savings for airlines -- not to mention zero emissions.

"This signifies the start of the electric aviation age," he told reporters.

Civil aviation is one of the fastest-growing sources of carbon emissions as people increasingly take to the skies and new technologies have been slow to get off the ground.

At 285 grammes of CO2 emitted per kilometre (mile) travelled by each passenger, airline industry emissions far exceed those from all other modes of transport, according to the European Environment Agency. The emissions contribute to global warming and climate change, which scientists say will unleash ever harsher droughts, superstorms, and sea-level rise.

The e-plane -- a 62-year-old, six-passenger DHC-2 de Havilland Beaver seaplane retrofitted with an electric motor –- was piloted by Greg McDougall, founder and chief executive of Harbour Air.

"For me, that flight was just like flying a Beaver, but it was a Beaver on electric steroids. I actually had to back off on the power," he said.&nbsp;

McDougall took the plane on a short loop along the Fraser River near Vancouver International Airport in front of around 100 onlookers soon after sunrise.&nbsp;

Environmentally-friendly flying&nbsp;

The flight lasted less than 15 minutes, according to an AFP journalist on the scene.

"Our goal is to actually electrify the entire fleet. There's no reason not to," said McDougall.

On top of fuel efficiency, the company would save millions in maintenance costs, as electric motors require "drastically" less upkeep, McDougall said.

However, Harbour Air will have to wait at least two years before it can begin electrifying its fleet of more than 40 seaplanes.

The e-plane has to be tested further to confirm it is reliable and safe. In addition, the electric motor must be approved and certified by regulators.

In Ottawa, Transport Minister Marc Garneau told reporters ahead of the maiden flight that he had his "fingers crossed that the electric plane will work well."

If it does, he said, "it could set a trend for more environmentally friendly flying."

Battery power is also a challenge. An aircraft like the one flown on Tuesday could only fly about 100 miles (160 kilometers) on lithium battery power, said Ganzarski.

While that's not far, it's sufficient for the majority of short-haul flights run by Harbour Air.

"The range now is not where we'd love it to be, but it's enough to start the revolution," said Ganzarski, who predicts batteries and electric motors will eventually be developed to power longer flights.&nbsp;

While the world waits, he said cheaper short-haul flights powered by electricity could transform the way people connect and where they work.

"If people are willing to drive an hour to work, why not fly 15 minutes to work?" he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The world's first fully-electric commercial aircraft took its inaugural test flight on Tuesday, taking off from the Canadian city of Vancouver and offering hope that airlines may one day end their polluting emissions.

The world's first fully-electric commercial aircraft took its inaugural test flight on Tuesday, taking off from the Canadian city of Vancouver and offering hope that airlines may one day end their polluting emissions. "This proves that commercial aviation in all-electric form can work," said Roei Ganzarski, chief executive of Seattle-based engineering firm magniX. The company designed the plane's motor and worked in partnership with Harbour Air, which ferries half a million passengers a year between Vancouver, Whistler ski resort and nearby islands and coastal communities. Ganzarski said the technology would mean significant cost savings for airlines -- not to mention zero emissions. "This signifies the start of the electric aviation age," he told reporters. Civil aviation is one of the fastest-growing sources of carbon emissions as people increasingly take to the skies and new technologies have been slow to get off the ground. At 285 grammes of CO2 emitted per kilometre (mile) travelled by each passenger, airline industry emissions far exceed those from all other modes of transport, according to the European Environment Agency. The emissions contribute to global warming and climate change, which scientists say will unleash ever harsher droughts, superstorms, and sea-level rise. The e-plane -- a 62-year-old, six-passenger DHC-2 de Havilland Beaver seaplane retrofitted with an electric motor –- was piloted by Greg McDougall, founder and chief executive of Harbour Air. "For me, that flight was just like flying a Beaver, but it was a Beaver on electric steroids. I actually had to back off on the power," he said. McDougall took the plane on a short loop along the Fraser River near Vancouver International Airport in front of around 100 onlookers soon after sunrise. Environmentally-friendly flying The flight lasted less than 15 minutes, according to an AFP journalist on the scene. "Our goal is to actually electrify the entire fleet. There's no reason not to," said McDougall. On top of fuel efficiency, the company would save millions in maintenance costs, as electric motors require "drastically" less upkeep, McDougall said. However, Harbour Air will have to wait at least two years before it can begin electrifying its fleet of more than 40 seaplanes. The e-plane has to be tested further to confirm it is reliable and safe. In addition, the electric motor must be approved and certified by regulators. In Ottawa, Transport Minister Marc Garneau told reporters ahead of the maiden flight that he had his "fingers crossed that the electric plane will work well." If it does, he said, "it could set a trend for more environmentally friendly flying." Battery power is also a challenge. An aircraft like the one flown on Tuesday could only fly about 100 miles (160 kilometers) on lithium battery power, said Ganzarski. While that's not far, it's sufficient for the majority of short-haul flights run by Harbour Air. "The range now is not where we'd love it to be, but it's enough to start the revolution," said Ganzarski, who predicts batteries and electric motors will eventually be developed to power longer flights. While the world waits, he said cheaper short-haul flights powered by electricity could transform the way people connect and where they work. "If people are willing to drive an hour to work, why not fly 15 minutes to work?" he said.

First commercial electric plane takes flight in Canada

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-trudeau-and-enrique-pena-sign-mexico-canada-agreement-replace-nafta-180510">United States, Mexico and Canada</a> signed a deal Tuesday to finalize their new trade agreement, paving the way to ratification after more than two years of arduous negotiations.

However, the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump in the US Senate would likely delay Congressional ratification of the agreement until next year, said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

In reality, it is the second time the three countries have triumphantly announced the conclusion of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the deal meant to replace the 25-year-old NAFTA, which President Donald Trump complains has been "a disaster" for the US.

First signed in November 2018, USMCA got bogged down in political complications, particularly in the United States, where opposition Democrats questioned whether it would really force Mexico to deliver on labour reforms meant to level the playing field between Mexican and American workers.

But another year of talks produced a series of additions — notably including tougher enforcement of labour provisions — that won the blessing of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the key Democrat needed to move the agreement forward, as well as the largest US labour federation, the AFL-CIO.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who presided over the signing ceremony, said the deal "will benefit both Mexican and American workers." He hailed it as a "driver of growth" for all three countries' economies.

"Some people thought it was impossible to reach this deal. Some people thought we wouldn't be able to agree on anything (with Trump). But look what we've done," said the leftist leader.

From 'worst' to 'best'

The final deal, which must now be ratified in all three countries' legislatures, will replace the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement, the historic pact that erased nearly all tariffs across the region, deeply integrated its economies and helped turn Mexico into an export powerhouse.

Under NAFTA, the region -- which represents close to 30 per cent of the global economy and is home to nearly 500 million people -- did $1.2 trillion in trade last year.

But Trump bashed NAFTA as "the worst trade deal in the history of the country," blaming it for shipping American jobs south of the border.

He insisted on overhauling it -- a long, fraught process that kicked off in August 2017, and which produced what Trump swaggeringly tweeted "will be the best and most important trade deal ever made by the USA."

Analysts say USMCA is similar to NAFTA in many respects, but there is improved access for US agricultural goods, including dairy products, which Canada, in particular, had tried to limit.

It includes rules designed to improve US auto workers' competitiveness, requiring 40 per cent of each duty-free car to be made by people earning at least $16 an hour.

Besides labour enforcement rules, the additions signed Tuesday include tougher measures to monitor environmental provisions and remove the requirement for the countries to provide at least 10 years of exclusivity for biologic drugs, which blocks cheaper generic versions.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer signed the annexe to the deal in Mexico City along with Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and Mexico's top negotiator on the accord, Jesus Seade.

Senior Trump advisor Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law, also attended.

"It's nothing short of a miracle that we have all come together," Lighthizer said.

"We have accomplished this together at a moment when around the world it is increasingly difficult to get trade deals done," said Freeland.

Down to the wire

The path to ratification now looks clear in all three countries.

Pelosi — acutely aware of the need to win back blue-collar voters the Democrats lost to Trump in 2016 — sought to claim victory over the president by calling the final deal "infinitely better than what was initially proposed by the administration."

USMCA's fate had looked precarious in recent weeks.

Lopez Obrador firmly rejected the initial US proposal for labour inspections, and the deal seemed likely to get mixed up in Trump's impeachment drama and 2020 re-election bid.

Mexico emphasized that there would be no American "inspectors" visiting Mexican factories or businesses, but rather panels of "independent labour experts" which Mexico would help to choose.

The United States, Mexico and Canada signed a deal Tuesday to finalize their new trade agreement, paving the way to ratification after more than two years of arduous negotiations.

The United States, Mexico and Canada signed a deal Tuesday to finalize their new trade agreement, paving the way to ratification after more than two years of arduous negotiations. However, the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump in the US Senate would likely delay Congressional ratification of the agreement until next year, said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. In reality, it is the second time the three countries have triumphantly announced the conclusion of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the deal meant to replace the 25-year-old NAFTA, which President Donald Trump complains has been "a disaster" for the US. First signed in November 2018, USMCA got bogged down in political complications, particularly in the United States, where opposition Democrats questioned whether it would really force Mexico to deliver on labour reforms meant to level the playing field between Mexican and American workers. But another year of talks produced a series of additions — notably including tougher enforcement of labour provisions — that won the blessing of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the key Democrat needed to move the agreement forward, as well as the largest US labour federation, the AFL-CIO. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who presided over the signing ceremony, said the deal "will benefit both Mexican and American workers." He hailed it as a "driver of growth" for all three countries' economies. "Some people thought it was impossible to reach this deal. Some people thought we wouldn't be able to agree on anything (with Trump). But look what we've done," said the leftist leader. From 'worst' to 'best' The final deal, which must now be ratified in all three countries' legislatures, will replace the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement, the historic pact that erased nearly all tariffs across the region, deeply integrated its economies and helped turn Mexico into an export powerhouse. Under NAFTA, the region -- which represents close to 30 per cent of the global economy and is home to nearly 500 million people -- did $1.2 trillion in trade last year. But Trump bashed NAFTA as "the worst trade deal in the history of the country," blaming it for shipping American jobs south of the border. He insisted on overhauling it -- a long, fraught process that kicked off in August 2017, and which produced what Trump swaggeringly tweeted "will be the best and most important trade deal ever made by the USA." Analysts say USMCA is similar to NAFTA in many respects, but there is improved access for US agricultural goods, including dairy products, which Canada, in particular, had tried to limit. It includes rules designed to improve US auto workers' competitiveness, requiring 40 per cent of each duty-free car to be made by people earning at least $16 an hour. Besides labour enforcement rules, the additions signed Tuesday include tougher measures to monitor environmental provisions and remove the requirement for the countries to provide at least 10 years of exclusivity for biologic drugs, which blocks cheaper generic versions. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer signed the annexe to the deal in Mexico City along with Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and Mexico's top negotiator on the accord, Jesus Seade. Senior Trump advisor Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law, also attended. "It's nothing short of a miracle that we have all come together," Lighthizer said. "We have accomplished this together at a moment when around the world it is increasingly difficult to get trade deals done," said Freeland. Down to the wire The path to ratification now looks clear in all three countries. Pelosi — acutely aware of the need to win back blue-collar voters the Democrats lost to Trump in 2016 — sought to claim victory over the president by calling the final deal "infinitely better than what was initially proposed by the administration." USMCA's fate had looked precarious in recent weeks. Lopez Obrador firmly rejected the initial US proposal for labour inspections, and the deal seemed likely to get mixed up in Trump's impeachment drama and 2020 re-election bid. Mexico emphasized that there would be no American "inspectors" visiting Mexican factories or businesses, but rather panels of "independent labour experts" which Mexico would help to choose.

United States, Mexico, Canada sign deal finalizing USMCA trade pact

After the initial euphoria had subsided,&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;business leaders emerged bruised and resigned to a new stricter&nbsp;trade&nbsp;deal&nbsp;with the United States and Canada that could usher in more intrusive enforcement of labor rules in Mexico.

Moises Kalach, a leader of the CCE business lobby, which represented Mexico's private sector in the negotiation of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usmca-united-states-mexico-and-canada-finalize-new-trade-agreement-267552">US-Mexico-Canada Agreement </a>(USMCA) that will replace the 1994 North American Free&nbsp;Trade&nbsp;Agreement (NAFTA), said that&nbsp;businesses&nbsp;felt sidelined.

"We would have liked to have been (in the negotiations) more to give our opinion more. This is the reality, we participated but not as much as we would have liked," said Kalach.

USMCA&nbsp;was signed more than a year ago to replace NAFTA, but Democrats controlling the US&nbsp;House of Representatives insisted on major changes to labor and environmental enforcement before bringing it to a vote.

In an unusual display of bipartisan and cross-border cooperation in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-in-the-trump-era-the-eu-needs-to-rethink-its-approach-to-liberal-order-160809">Trump era</a> of global&nbsp;trade&nbsp;conflicts, top officials from Canada, Mexico, and the United States on Tuesday signed a fresh overhaul of the quarter-century-old&nbsp;trade&nbsp;pact.

Some&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;business groups bemoaned a lack of&nbsp;clarity&nbsp;and conflicting information on how the rules would actually be enforced under the&nbsp;deal, the text of which has not been made public.

Gustavo Hoyos, president of employers federation Coparmex and a vocal critic of President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morales-victim-of-coup-mexican-president-amlo-265630">Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador,</a> said: "up to now virtually no one but government officials have seen the&nbsp;deal's fine print". He called the government "a bad negotiator."

Others were more positive.

"There were many things we would have liked to have seen but in general we can say this&nbsp;deal&nbsp;is very beneficial for Mexico, it will bring investment to the country and I have no doubt will make the North American region more competitive," said Antonio del Valle, head of the&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;Business Council.

The&nbsp;deal&nbsp;included a new mechanism under which the United States and Canada can create panels of labor experts to investigate union complaints at&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;factories.

The experts&nbsp;will be able to penalize goods and services exported from that plant if violations of the freedom to organize or collectively bargain are detected, Canada and the US&nbsp;House Ways and Means Committee said.

Mexico's chief negotiator Jesus Seade sought to play down&nbsp;the impact of such "rapid panels," saying he had fended off US&nbsp;union demands to place foreign labor inspectors in&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;factories.

The rapid panels would be formed after three months and only in response to repeated complaints and they would be selected from a roster of experts, including one from each country involved in the dispute and one chosen by a third party, Seade said.

The&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;official denied there would be anything like foreign labor inspectors in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-business-as-usual-at-mexicos-southern-border-despite-trump-deal-225581">Mexico</a>.

Canada said that, under the new&nbsp;deal, the burden of proof has been reversed, in that failure to comply with an obligation in the chapter is now presumed to be "in a manner affecting&nbsp;trade&nbsp;or investment between the parties," unless the defending party can demonstrate otherwise.

"If I'm reading this correctly now the country defending itself is guilty until proven otherwise," said a former senior&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;USMCA&nbsp;negotiator.

"This can become an incentive to block&nbsp;trade&nbsp;you just gave the US&nbsp;an instrument to impose tariffs and close markets because it is going to be accusing you of not complying with your labor standards."

Duncan Wood, director of the Wilson Center's Mexico Institute in Washington, said: "that while the word 'inspections' has been avoided, 'facility-based enforcement' and in-country 'labor attaches' will raise the specter of foreign interference for some in Mexico."

&nbsp;

After the initial euphoria had subsided, Mexican business leaders emerged bruised and resigned to a new stricter trade deal with the United States and Canada that could usher in more intrusive enforcement of labor rules in Mexico.

After the initial euphoria had subsided, Mexican business leaders emerged bruised and resigned to a new stricter trade deal with the United States and Canada that could usher in more intrusive enforcement of labor rules in Mexico. Moises Kalach, a leader of the CCE business lobby, which represented Mexico's private sector in the negotiation of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) that will replace the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), said that businesses felt sidelined. "We would have liked to have been (in the negotiations) more to give our opinion more. This is the reality, we participated but not as much as we would have liked," said Kalach. USMCA was signed more than a year ago to replace NAFTA, but Democrats controlling the US House of Representatives insisted on major changes to labor and environmental enforcement before bringing it to a vote. In an unusual display of bipartisan and cross-border cooperation in the Trump era of global trade conflicts, top officials from Canada, Mexico, and the United States on Tuesday signed a fresh overhaul of the quarter-century-old trade pact. Some Mexican business groups bemoaned a lack of clarity and conflicting information on how the rules would actually be enforced under the deal, the text of which has not been made public. Gustavo Hoyos, president of employers federation Coparmex and a vocal critic of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, said: "up to now virtually no one but government officials have seen the deal's fine print". He called the government "a bad negotiator." Others were more positive. "There were many things we would have liked to have seen but in general we can say this deal is very beneficial for Mexico, it will bring investment to the country and I have no doubt will make the North American region more competitive," said Antonio del Valle, head of the Mexican Business Council. The deal included a new mechanism under which the United States and Canada can create panels of labor experts to investigate union complaints at Mexican factories. The experts will be able to penalize goods and services exported from that plant if violations of the freedom to organize or collectively bargain are detected, Canada and the US House Ways and Means Committee said. Mexico's chief negotiator Jesus Seade sought to play down the impact of such "rapid panels," saying he had fended off US union demands to place foreign labor inspectors in Mexican factories. The rapid panels would be formed after three months and only in response to repeated complaints and they would be selected from a roster of experts, including one from each country involved in the dispute and one chosen by a third party, Seade said. The Mexican official denied there would be anything like foreign labor inspectors in Mexico. Canada said that, under the new deal, the burden of proof has been reversed, in that failure to comply with an obligation in the chapter is now presumed to be "in a manner affecting trade or investment between the parties," unless the defending party can demonstrate otherwise. "If I'm reading this correctly now the country defending itself is guilty until proven otherwise," said a former senior Mexican USMCA negotiator. "This can become an incentive to block trade you just gave the US an instrument to impose tariffs and close markets because it is going to be accusing you of not complying with your labor standards." Duncan Wood, director of the Wilson Center's Mexico Institute in Washington, said: "that while the word 'inspections' has been avoided, 'facility-based enforcement' and in-country 'labor attaches' will raise the specter of foreign interference for some in Mexico."

Mexican businesses want clarity on details of USMCA trade deal

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