Beyond the geopolitics and tactical recalibrations around the fall of the Assad regime, there's the huge human implication of it—the return of hundreds of thousands of people who fled Syria down the decades and whether the new administration lives up to their aspirations and onto the even bigger task of repair of the shattered Syrian canvas. Watch in for more details!

Syria: Thousands Who Left During Civil War Are Heading Back Home

Syria is under siege again, but this time from all sides in the aftermath of President Bashar al-Assad's abrupt ouster and rebels taking charge -- Global powers are rushing to protect their interests. Watch in for more details!

Syria Civil War: Netanyahu Says, 'Approved Strikes On Military Facilities In Syria'

Israel continues to aerial campaign against Syria. The Israeli military said it conducted more than 350 strikes on strategic military targets in Syria over the past 48 hours. The targets included 15 naval vessels, anti-aircraft barriers and manufacturing sites in several cities. The Israeli military released several videos that showed strike on Syria including the port of Latakia. On Tuesday, Syria's Muhammad Al-Basher announced that he would assume the role of caretaker prime minister of the country. In a brief address on state television, al-Basher stated that he would lead the interim government until March 1st. Before this, he had headed the Reel Salvation Government prior to a 12-day lightning offensive that swept into Damascus. Later in the day, al-Basher held a meeting with his government and, speaking to Al Jazeera, emphasized the urgent need for peace and stability in Syria after nearly 14 years of conflict.

Syria: Rebel Leader Golani Says Syria Will Not Get Into Another War

After the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime, the rebels appointed Mohammed al-Bashir as the caretaker prime minister of the transitional Syrian government till March 1, 2025. Mohammed al-Bashir is a politician and Syrian engineer who started his fifth tenure as the prime minister of the Syrian Salvation Government, which is affiliated with HTS, in January. As per media reports, Syria’s Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani met outgoing Syrian prime minister Mohammed al-Jalali and discussed the “transfer of power". Watch in for more details!

Who Is Mohammed Al-Bashir, The New Caretaker Prime Minister Of Syria? Explained

Ahmed Al-Shara the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham addressed a cheering crowd at the iconic Umayyad mosque in Damascus after the fall of Bashar Al Assad in Syria. Watch in for more details!

Syrian Civil War: Assad Flees As Rebels Declare Syria 'Liberated

In Syria, Ahmed Al Shar, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), addressed a cheering crowd at the iconic Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. This occurred after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Following Assad's downfall, Assad and his family reportedly landed in Moscow, where they were granted asylum by Russia, according to Russian state media. This development came just hours after rebels took control of Syria. Watch in for more details!

Syria Civil War: Damascus Falls To Rebels; Presidential Palace Ransacked, Banks Looted

Syria: From Idlib To Damascus: Areas Under Rebel's Control | Who Controls What In Syria ? Explained

Syrian rebel forces have entered Damascus amid reports that President Bashar al-Assad has fled the country by plane for an unknown destination after 13 years of civil war. Watch for more details!

Syria Civil War: US To 'Work With Partners In Syria To Manage Risk'

A lightning offensive led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) culminated with the historic toppling of President Bashar-al Assad's regime in Syria's 13-year-long conflict.&nbsp;

HTS, which had emerged from al-Qaeda-affiliated Jabhat al-Nusra, in its surprise assault captured more than 50&nbsp;towns and villages in Syria followed by some of its strategic cities and eventually stormed into the capital Damascus on Sunday (Dec 8).&nbsp;

The United Nations, United States, Turkey and other nations have designated HTS as a terrorist organisation.

<h2>All about Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)</h2>

In 2011, HTS started as Jabhat al-Nusra, which was an affiliate of Al Qaeda and was famous for its brutality and effectiveness.

In English, “Hayat Tahrir al-Sham” means "Organisation for the Liberation of the Levant".

Earlier, it was aligned with the Free Syrian Army in the uprising against President Assad.&nbsp;

However, the group's strict jihadist ideology soon led to its alienation from other rebel groups.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bashar-al-assad-syrias-tyrant-who-pushed-the-country-into-a-decade-long-civil-war-782409">Bashar Al-Assad: Syria's 'tyrant' who pushed the country into a decade-long civil war</a>

HTS is headed by Abu Mohammed al-Golani, who is a former leader of Jabhat al-Nusra.

The group follows the Salafi-jihadist ideology and its aim has always been toppling the government of Assad and establishing Islamic rule in the country. 
&nbsp; 
Islamic State (IS) group's leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was also involved in the formation of HTS.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-13-year-war-a-timeline-of-key-events-since-2011-782392">Syria's 13-year civil war: Timeline of key events since 2011 - What you should know</a>

The group was renamed HTS in 2016 after the leader of the group Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani publicly broke ranks with Al Qaeda.

HTS had set up its power base in the north-western province of Idlib and worked as the region's de facto local administration.

Watch:&nbsp;Syrian Army Command Tells Officers That Assad's Rule Has Ended, Officer Says

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HTS has also been governing parts of the country through the Syrian Salvation Government (SSG), providing essential services like food aid and welfare programmes for nearly four million residents in its territories.&nbsp;

The group has also taken under its control critical resources such as the Bab al-Hawa border crossing with Turkey, through which humanitarian aid is facilitated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

A lightning offensive led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) culminated with the historic toppling of President Bashar-al Assad's regime in Syria's 13-year-long conflict.

A lightning offensive led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) culminated with the historic toppling of President Bashar-al Assad's regime in Syria's 13-year-long conflict. HTS, which had emerged from al-Qaeda-affiliated Jabhat al-Nusra, in its surprise assault captured more than 50 towns and villages in Syria followed by some of its strategic cities and eventually stormed into the capital Damascus on Sunday (Dec 8). The United Nations, United States, Turkey and other nations have designated HTS as a terrorist organisation. All about Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) In 2011, HTS started as Jabhat al-Nusra, which was an affiliate of Al Qaeda and was famous for its brutality and effectiveness. In English, “Hayat Tahrir al-Sham” means "Organisation for the Liberation of the Levant". Earlier, it was aligned with the Free Syrian Army in the uprising against President Assad. However, the group's strict jihadist ideology soon led to its alienation from other rebel groups. Also Read: Bashar Al-Assad: Syria's 'tyrant' who pushed the country into a decade-long civil war HTS is headed by Abu Mohammed al-Golani, who is a former leader of Jabhat al-Nusra. The group follows the Salafi-jihadist ideology and its aim has always been toppling the government of Assad and establishing Islamic rule in the country. Islamic State (IS) group's leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was also involved in the formation of HTS. Also Read: Syria's 13-year civil war: Timeline of key events since 2011 - What you should know The group was renamed HTS in 2016 after the leader of the group Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani publicly broke ranks with Al Qaeda. HTS had set up its power base in the north-western province of Idlib and worked as the region's de facto local administration. Watch: Syrian Army Command Tells Officers That Assad's Rule Has Ended, Officer Says HTS has also been governing parts of the country through the Syrian Salvation Government (SSG), providing essential services like food aid and welfare programmes for nearly four million residents in its territories. The group has also taken under its control critical resources such as the Bab al-Hawa border crossing with Turkey, through which humanitarian aid is facilitated. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Who are the Syrian rebels who overthrew Bashar-al Assad's 24-year-old regime in two weeks?

On the morning of Sunday (Dec 8), Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad was nowhere to be found in Damascus when the rebel forces stormed the capital city after taking over five other cities in a span of a few days.

As the leader now appeared to have been left to fend for himself, the sequence of tumultuous events marked the end of the 24-year rule of the man who has often been called a "tyrant".

Years ago, it was the same President Assad who spearheaded the merciless crackdown on the people who were carrying out the pro-democracy revolt that soon turned into one of the bloodiest wars of the century and eventually toppled the leader.

President&nbsp; Assad faced nationwide protests demanding his resignation and also battled an armed rebellion. He eventually crushed it, and took back control of much of the country embroiled in the civil war which had started in 2011.

<h2>Who is Bashar al-Assad?</h2>

Bashar al-Assad became the president of Syria in 2000 after his father Hafez al-Assad, who was the country's ruler for almost 30 years, died of a heart attack in the same year.

Bashar was born in Damascus on 11 September 1965, and was the second son of Hafez, the leader of the Ba'ath Party and a military officer who became Syria's president after a coup in 1971.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-13-year-war-a-timeline-of-key-events-since-2011-782392">Syria's 13-year civil war: Timeline of key events since 2011 - What you should know</a>

The Assad family came from the Shia minority sect of Alawites. Shias are only around&nbsp;13 per cent of the population. But the Alawites, and particularly the Assad family, are known to have been dominant in politics since the 1960s.

Bashar studied in a school in Damascus and completed his medical degree specialising in&nbsp; ophthalmology from the University of Damascus in 1988. He worked as an army doctor and later shifted to London in 1992 for further studies.

Bashar's older brother Basil, who was expected to succeed their father, lost his life in a car accident in 1994.&nbsp;

<h2>Bashar al-Assad comes to power&nbsp;</h2>

The then 29-year-old Bashar came back to Syria to take the place of his brother. After his father's death on June 10, 2000, the Syrian parliament amended the constitution swiftly and decreased the minimum age for presidential candidates from 40 to 34 to bring Bashar al-Assad to the helm.

On July 11, 2000, Bashar officially took office and became commander-in-chief of the military and the leader of the Ba'ath Party. As soon as he came to power, Bashar refused to adopt democracy as a model for Syria.&nbsp;

He followed the hardline stance of his father on the conflict between Syria and Israel, and also opposed the US invasion of Iraq.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/damascus-falls-syrian-rebels-announce-capital-city-free-pm-says-ready-for-handover-782370">Damascus falls: Syrian rebels announce capital city 'free', PM says ready for handover</a>

Assad's regime also saw strained relations between Syria and Lebanon after the involvement of Damascus was suspected in the assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri as Syrian troops withdrew from Lebanon.

<h2>Civil war in Syria&nbsp;</h2>

Mass protests started in Syria in March 2011, inspired by the Arab Spring. Initially, Assad promised to bring reforms like releasing political prisoners and abolishing emergency laws, however, violence escalated against the protesters.

Troops and tanks were deployed by the government as Assad played the role of a victim of what he called an international conspiracy.&nbsp;

The armed opposition groups picked up the momentum by September 2011 and it soon turned into a full-blown civil war by mid-2012.

Hundreds were killed near Damascus in August 2019 in attacks which involved chemical weapons, which led to calls for international military action.&nbsp;

The United States, Russia and Syria signed an agreement as per which the country's chemical weapons were placed under international control.

Watch:&nbsp;Syrian Army Command Tells Officers That Assad's Rule Has Ended, Officer Says

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Even after this, indiscriminate use of weapons was seen in the war, including barrel bombs dropped by Assad's forces in rebel-controlled areas.

A controversial measure, Law 10, was also implemented in which the government was free to seize property from the displaced Syrians which were then redistributed to loyalists.

Elections were held by Assad in June 2014 which kept him in power, but the polls were widely believed to be a sham.

After 13 long years, the Syrian rebel forces finally stormed into Damascus and toppled Bashar al-Assad's regime which marked the historic end of the Assad family's 50-year rule of Syria.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

On the morning of Sunday (Dec 8), Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad was nowhere to be found in Damascus when the rebel forces stormed the capital city after taking over five other cities in a span of a few days.

On the morning of Sunday (Dec 8), Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad was nowhere to be found in Damascus when the rebel forces stormed the capital city after taking over five other cities in a span of a few days. As the leader now appeared to have been left to fend for himself, the sequence of tumultuous events marked the end of the 24-year rule of the man who has often been called a "tyrant". Years ago, it was the same President Assad who spearheaded the merciless crackdown on the people who were carrying out the pro-democracy revolt that soon turned into one of the bloodiest wars of the century and eventually toppled the leader. President Assad faced nationwide protests demanding his resignation and also battled an armed rebellion. He eventually crushed it, and took back control of much of the country embroiled in the civil war which had started in 2011. Who is Bashar al-Assad? Bashar al-Assad became the president of Syria in 2000 after his father Hafez al-Assad, who was the country's ruler for almost 30 years, died of a heart attack in the same year. Bashar was born in Damascus on 11 September 1965, and was the second son of Hafez, the leader of the Ba'ath Party and a military officer who became Syria's president after a coup in 1971. Also Read: Syria's 13-year civil war: Timeline of key events since 2011 - What you should know The Assad family came from the Shia minority sect of Alawites. Shias are only around 13 per cent of the population. But the Alawites, and particularly the Assad family, are known to have been dominant in politics since the 1960s. Bashar studied in a school in Damascus and completed his medical degree specialising in ophthalmology from the University of Damascus in 1988. He worked as an army doctor and later shifted to London in 1992 for further studies. Bashar's older brother Basil, who was expected to succeed their father, lost his life in a car accident in 1994. Bashar al-Assad comes to power The then 29-year-old Bashar came back to Syria to take the place of his brother. After his father's death on June 10, 2000, the Syrian parliament amended the constitution swiftly and decreased the minimum age for presidential candidates from 40 to 34 to bring Bashar al-Assad to the helm. On July 11, 2000, Bashar officially took office and became commander-in-chief of the military and the leader of the Ba'ath Party. As soon as he came to power, Bashar refused to adopt democracy as a model for Syria. He followed the hardline stance of his father on the conflict between Syria and Israel, and also opposed the US invasion of Iraq. Also Read: Damascus falls: Syrian rebels announce capital city 'free', PM says ready for handover Assad's regime also saw strained relations between Syria and Lebanon after the involvement of Damascus was suspected in the assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri as Syrian troops withdrew from Lebanon. Civil war in Syria Mass protests started in Syria in March 2011, inspired by the Arab Spring. Initially, Assad promised to bring reforms like releasing political prisoners and abolishing emergency laws, however, violence escalated against the protesters. Troops and tanks were deployed by the government as Assad played the role of a victim of what he called an international conspiracy. The armed opposition groups picked up the momentum by September 2011 and it soon turned into a full-blown civil war by mid-2012. Hundreds were killed near Damascus in August 2019 in attacks which involved chemical weapons, which led to calls for international military action. The United States, Russia and Syria signed an agreement as per which the country's chemical weapons were placed under international control. Watch: Syrian Army Command Tells Officers That Assad's Rule Has Ended, Officer Says Even after this, indiscriminate use of weapons was seen in the war, including barrel bombs dropped by Assad's forces in rebel-controlled areas. A controversial measure, Law 10, was also implemented in which the government was free to seize property from the displaced Syrians which were then redistributed to loyalists. Elections were held by Assad in June 2014 which kept him in power, but the polls were widely believed to be a sham. After 13 long years, the Syrian rebel forces finally stormed into Damascus and toppled Bashar al-Assad's regime which marked the historic end of the Assad family's 50-year rule of Syria. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Bashar Al-Assad: Syria's 'tyrant' who pushed the country into a decade-long civil war

Syrian rebels fighting against President Bashar al-Assad's regime have now surrounded the key city of Hamama from all three sides and directions, according to a war monitor. Syria's Human Rights Observatory has reported that the rebel forces are now just 3 to 4 kilometers away from Hamama city, with only one exit toward homs in the south. Watch in for more details!

Syrian Rebels: Over 115,000 People Displaced From Aleppo City: United Nations

Evo Morales, former president of Bolivia, has survived an assassination attempt following a shooting incident. He alleges that the attack is part of a broader conspiracy against him, raising alarms about political violence and instability in the country.

Bolivia: Ex-President Evo Morales Survives Shooting, Alleges Assassination Plot

Over the past 10 years, the Republican Party has been reshaped as an outpost of Donald Trump's views, but the Grand Old Party of US politics has a storied history far from its current right-wing avatar.

Not many know that the Republican Party was founded by anti-slavery activists in 1854.

Watch: Trump at Republican Convention after assassination bid | Republicans formally nominate Trump

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Along with groups like former Whigs and Free Soilers, they created the party to fight against the expansion of slavery of Africans into new areas in the United States.

Equally unbelievable when compared to the present stance of Democrats is that that party had supported slavery. The Republicans became the main opposition to the Democratic party with their fight against slavery.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-comes-up-with-a-shocking-idea-to-end-violent-crime-in-us-suggests-a-day-like-the-purge-763269">Also read: Trump comes up with shocking idea to end violent crime in US, suggests a day like 'The Purge'</a>

Possibly the most well-known figure in the Republican party is&nbsp;Abraham Lincoln, who became the first Republican president and went on to serve from 1861 to 1865 till his assassination.

Lincoln's election in 1860 took place amid the conflict between the pro-slavery southern states and the rest of the union, which eventually led to the American Civil War following the secession move by the South.

Under Lincoln, the abolitionist North won the Civil War, and the Republican president made the Emancipation Proclamation, which set the US on a path towards ending slavery.

Republican party gave several other prominent presidents including Ulysses S Grant, Theodore Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan. It also has the not-so-bright record of Richard Nixon, the only US president who was forced to resign.&nbsp;

The slow move of the party towards conservative and right-wing politics and economic policies was cemented by Reagan, and his Republican successors George HW Bush, his son George W Bush and then, Donald Trump.

At various times, the Republicans controlled Congress and the US legislature. They had the majority in the House of Representatives in 1947-49 and 2011-2019. In the Senate, they were in the majority in the 1980s and early 2000s, wresting majority again in the 2015-2021 period.

When compared to the anti-slavery idealism of its founders which was progressive for its time, the current politics of the Republicans is almost unbelievable.&nbsp;

The party currently advocates free-market policies and limited government intervention in people's lives, particularly in taxation.

While it endorses individual freedom away from government authority, the party is also conservative in its fiscal and social policies.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/liz-cheney-urges-republican-women-to-side-with-harris-in-us-elections-over-abortion-rights-769821">Also read: Liz Cheney urges Republican women to side with Harris in US elections over abortion rights</a>

Amplified by Trump, who has changed the composition of the Republican party in the past eight years with his relatives or allies in key positions, the Republicans have a relatively hardline approach towards immigration and race relations, appearing to favour the white majority.

Trump is an ardent opponent of immigration, particularly from Latin American and Muslim nations.&nbsp;

His party is also opposed to taxing the rich, and government intervention in healthcare and medical insurance.

On the issue of abortion, the current Republicans prefer the right to life to the right of choice.

Republican presidents like George Bush and George W Bush have led the meddling of the US in global issues, including W's move to export democracy that led to civil wars, conflicts and the rise of Islamic terrorism in West Asia, and at least partially caused the 9/11 attacks of 2001.&nbsp;

Under Trump, the Republican Party seemed to favour American isolationism, with his key slogan being Make America Great Again.

Will Trump lead the Grand Old Party back into power and shape the legislative and policy landscape of the US?

We will know in November. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Over the past 10 years, the Republican Party has been reshaped as an outpost of Donald Trump's views, but the Grand Old Party of US politics has a storied history far from its current right-wing avatar.

Over the past 10 years, the Republican Party has been reshaped as an outpost of Donald Trump's views, but the Grand Old Party of US politics has a storied history far from its current right-wing avatar. Not many know that the Republican Party was founded by anti-slavery activists in 1854. Watch: Trump at Republican Convention after assassination bid | Republicans formally nominate Trump × Along with groups like former Whigs and Free Soilers, they created the party to fight against the expansion of slavery of Africans into new areas in the United States. Equally unbelievable when compared to the present stance of Democrats is that that party had supported slavery. The Republicans became the main opposition to the Democratic party with their fight against slavery. Also read: Trump comes up with shocking idea to end violent crime in US, suggests a day like 'The Purge' Possibly the most well-known figure in the Republican party is Abraham Lincoln, who became the first Republican president and went on to serve from 1861 to 1865 till his assassination. Lincoln's election in 1860 took place amid the conflict between the pro-slavery southern states and the rest of the union, which eventually led to the American Civil War following the secession move by the South. Under Lincoln, the abolitionist North won the Civil War, and the Republican president made the Emancipation Proclamation, which set the US on a path towards ending slavery. Republican party gave several other prominent presidents including Ulysses S Grant, Theodore Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan. It also has the not-so-bright record of Richard Nixon, the only US president who was forced to resign. The slow move of the party towards conservative and right-wing politics and economic policies was cemented by Reagan, and his Republican successors George HW Bush, his son George W Bush and then, Donald Trump. At various times, the Republicans controlled Congress and the US legislature. They had the majority in the House of Representatives in 1947-49 and 2011-2019. In the Senate, they were in the majority in the 1980s and early 2000s, wresting majority again in the 2015-2021 period. When compared to the anti-slavery idealism of its founders which was progressive for its time, the current politics of the Republicans is almost unbelievable. The party currently advocates free-market policies and limited government intervention in people's lives, particularly in taxation. While it endorses individual freedom away from government authority, the party is also conservative in its fiscal and social policies. Also read: Liz Cheney urges Republican women to side with Harris in US elections over abortion rights Amplified by Trump, who has changed the composition of the Republican party in the past eight years with his relatives or allies in key positions, the Republicans have a relatively hardline approach towards immigration and race relations, appearing to favour the white majority. Trump is an ardent opponent of immigration, particularly from Latin American and Muslim nations. His party is also opposed to taxing the rich, and government intervention in healthcare and medical insurance. On the issue of abortion, the current Republicans prefer the right to life to the right of choice. Republican presidents like George Bush and George W Bush have led the meddling of the US in global issues, including W's move to export democracy that led to civil wars, conflicts and the rise of Islamic terrorism in West Asia, and at least partially caused the 9/11 attacks of 2001. Under Trump, the Republican Party seemed to favour American isolationism, with his key slogan being Make America Great Again. Will Trump lead the Grand Old Party back into power and shape the legislative and policy landscape of the US? We will know in November. (With inputs from agencies)

US Elections 2024: Republican party of Donald Trump - What you should know

Supporters of former Bolivian president Evo Morales have clashed with police after a prosecutor said she would order his arrest. Morales, who governed Bolivia from 2006 to 2019, is under investigation for alleged statutory rape and human trafficking, which he denies.

Bolivia: Evo Morales Faces Potential Arrest Over Child Sex Abuse Charges

Myanmar's Junta targets hotels and civilian areas in Lashio. They are using 500-LB Bombs against targets in Lashio. Watch to know more.

Myanmar: Junta Air Force Bombs Rebel-Held City Of Lashing

The war in Sudan is not just posing a threat to the country's future, the rich history of the country is also a victim. Historical artifacts were listed for sale on the popular auction site eBay as per reports. eBay has now removed the link. Watch in for more details!

Sudan's priceless treasures put up for sale

On the 23rd of August, as Sudan marked the five hundredth day of a gruesome civil war that has ravaged the nation, U.S. Brokered truce talks in Switzerland aiming to finally end the conflict, collapsed after mediators failed to convince the military to come to the negotiation table. While agreements over aid transit were signed, the deals are being seen more as symbolic progress than a concrete path to peace. Watch in for more details!

Sudanese Civil War crosses 500-day-mark | World of Africa

In Sudan Millions have been displaced by a nearly 16-month long Civil War and they are now grappling with worsening conditions due to heavy seasonal rains and flooding

Sudan grappling with heavy rain and flooding

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.&nbsp;

Women and girls as young as nine were raped by Sudan's RSF, which is engaged in conflict with Sudan Armed Forces, also engaged in sexual violence, since the conflict broke out in 2023, according to a report by Human Rights Watch.

Both RSF or Rapid Support Forces and SAF&nbsp;engaged in rape, gang rape, and other forms of sexual violence of girls and women aged up to 60. RSF appears to have been the worst perpetrators when compared to SAF, according to the HRW report released on Sunday (July 28).

HRW was able to document at least 262 survivors of sexual violence since the conflict broke out.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-report-exposes-extreme-levels-of-child-abuse-in-armed-conflicts-especially-in-gaza-and-sudan-730923">UN report exposes 'extreme levels' of child abuse in armed conflicts, especially in Gaza and Sudan</a>

According to survivors, many were gang-raped by up to four RSF fighters, in some cases, in front of family members.

"RSF members sexually assaulted women and girls in front of their family members," said the report, particularly noting a case where a mother and her four daughters were raped "repeatedly for days" in front of their father and brothers after putting them under house arrest.

The rights group cited a lawyer who received “reports of rape of six girls, one girl aged 9 years old” and a psychologist who said out of over&nbsp;25 survivor cases he recorded, “at least 80 per cent were aged between 12 and 18."

Men and boys have also been victims of sexual violence, it said.

The conflict-related sexual violence in the impoverished African country was recorded by the rights group from interviews with healthcare professionals, psychiatrists and other care providers&nbsp;in the capital of Khartoum Bahri and Omdurman cities.

<h2>Forced child marriages</h2>

"Women and girls have also been subjected to forced marriage and child marriage," the rights body said in the report, which was compiled&nbsp;based on interviews conducted between September 2023 and February 2024.

The HRW report claimed that RSF forced some women and children into marriage in Khartoum.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;UN calls for immediate ceasefire and international efforts in Sudan

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Some relatives agreed to such marriages for financial reasons, or in the hope that they would not be raped outside of marriage.

<h3>Sudan conflict</h3>

RSF is&nbsp;an independent military group&nbsp;engaged in conflict with SAF since April 2023. The conflict broke out as a result of rivalry between two military chiefs who together ousted a civilian transitional government in 2021:&nbsp;General Abdelfattah al-Burhan who leads SAF and Gen&nbsp;Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the RSF leader.

Al-Burhan and Dagalo led the coup against the civilian government of Abdalla Hamdok in October 2021.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Women and girls as young as nine were raped by Sudan's RSF, which is engaged in conflict with Sudan Armed Forces, also engaged in sexual violence, since the conflict broke out in 2023, according to a report by Human Rights Watch.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Women and girls as young as nine were raped by Sudan's RSF, which is engaged in conflict with Sudan Armed Forces, also engaged in sexual violence, since the conflict broke out in 2023, according to a report by Human Rights Watch. Both RSF or Rapid Support Forces and SAF engaged in rape, gang rape, and other forms of sexual violence of girls and women aged up to 60. RSF appears to have been the worst perpetrators when compared to SAF, according to the HRW report released on Sunday (July 28). HRW was able to document at least 262 survivors of sexual violence since the conflict broke out. Also read | UN report exposes 'extreme levels' of child abuse in armed conflicts, especially in Gaza and Sudan According to survivors, many were gang-raped by up to four RSF fighters, in some cases, in front of family members. "RSF members sexually assaulted women and girls in front of their family members," said the report, particularly noting a case where a mother and her four daughters were raped "repeatedly for days" in front of their father and brothers after putting them under house arrest. The rights group cited a lawyer who received “reports of rape of six girls, one girl aged 9 years old” and a psychologist who said out of over 25 survivor cases he recorded, “at least 80 per cent were aged between 12 and 18." Men and boys have also been victims of sexual violence, it said. The conflict-related sexual violence in the impoverished African country was recorded by the rights group from interviews with healthcare professionals, psychiatrists and other care providers in the capital of Khartoum Bahri and Omdurman cities. Forced child marriages "Women and girls have also been subjected to forced marriage and child marriage," the rights body said in the report, which was compiled based on interviews conducted between September 2023 and February 2024. The HRW report claimed that RSF forced some women and children into marriage in Khartoum. Also watch | UN calls for immediate ceasefire and international efforts in Sudan × Some relatives agreed to such marriages for financial reasons, or in the hope that they would not be raped outside of marriage. Sudan conflict RSF is an independent military group engaged in conflict with SAF since April 2023. The conflict broke out as a result of rivalry between two military chiefs who together ousted a civilian transitional government in 2021: General Abdelfattah al-Burhan who leads SAF and Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the RSF leader. Al-Burhan and Dagalo led the coup against the civilian government of Abdalla Hamdok in October 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

Shocking cases of rape in Sudan: Children as young as nine were raped, says rights group report

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Assange to plead guilty in US court - US urges Israel to avoid Lebanon escalation - Zelensky replaces chief of joint forces - Poland's Duda meets Xi in Beijing - North Korea sending more 'trash' balloons

WION Headlines | Macron warns of 'civil war' | North Korea sending more 'trash' balloons

One week before snap elections in France President Emanuel Macron cautioned that a victory for the far left or far right could bring a civil war in the country. Watch in for more details!

France elections: Macron's 'civil war' warning ahead of polls

Countdown to France elections, polls predict far-right win in Snap Elections

Western Sudan's main hospital in Al-Fashir city has been shut. This followed an attack by the Parliamentary rapid support forces that put the hospital out of commission this was confirmed by the MSF which supports a facility.

Sudan: Biggest hospital in Al Fashir city goes out of service

Sudan: Main hospital comes under attacks from rapid support forces

Voters in eastern areas of South Sudan, which have been engulfed in violence in recent years due to the country's civil war, say they are excited about the chance to cast their ballots in elections slated for December.

Power jostling as South Sudan heads to polls in December

UN warns of possible imminent attack on city in Sudan's north Darfur. The agency added that an attack on Al-Fashir would have devastating consequences for civilians in area already on brink of famine. Watch in for more details!

Sudan: Darfur on the Precipice

Alex Garland's upcoming flick Civil War comes at a time when people of the US are active politically considering the elections. The same can be said about India as the film gears for its premiere in the country.&nbsp;

Civil War promises to show a different side of the US with ordinary citizens taking up arms against each other leading to a bloodbath on the streets. Calling itself a war epic, Alex’s film is a wholly consuming and thought-provoking war epic that uses the experience and motivations of a group of military-embedded journalists to highlight the chilling reality of living in a world that never learns.

In the film, the maker explores the unwavering commitment to truth through the lens of journalism with an aim to spark vital discourse and inspire viewers to critically evaluate the information they encounter on a daily basis via traditional or social media channels.&nbsp;

In the film, Academy Award nominee Kirsten Dunst plays a jaded photojournalist documenting the end of democracy as we know it in what's sure to be one of the year’s most controversial films. This gritty, war-torn film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny, Stephen McKinley Henderson, and Jesse Plemons.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-jewish-celebs-issue-letter-denouncing-zone-of-interests-jonathan-glazers-oscars-speech-701685">Jewish celebs issue letter denouncing Zone of Interest's Jonathan Glazer's Oscars speech</a> 
&nbsp; 
One of the most anticipated movies in a contentious Red vs. Blue election year, A24‘s Civil War promises to make you face harsh realities of a world where we have forgotten what living in a democracy feels like.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Set in the dystopian future, the film will be depicting the harrowing and senseless realities of war. The story is that of the US in which a three-term demagogue president rules. Civil War follows a war journalist, played by Kirsten Dunst, as she traverses a very hostile America. 
&nbsp; 
Speaking on the film, Alex said that he wanted to make journalists the heroes in Civil War because in “every democracy they aren’t a luxury, but a necessity.”

<h2>Synopsis of Civil War</h2>

Civil War follows a group of journalists. At the center of this is veteran war photographer Lee, played by Kirsten Dunst, who has seen more death than many would in a lifetime. Now, she must cover a conflict in her own country and grapple with what this means. She takes aspiring young photographer Jessie (Cailee Spaeny) under her wing as she plans to travel across the country with her colleagues Joel (Wagner Moura) and Sammy (Stephen McKinley Henderson) to interview the president (Offerman) before what is believed to be the violent end of his regime.

Civil War will release in India and elsewhere on April 12.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-ariana-grandes-we-cant-be-friends-debuts-at-no-1-on-billboard-hot-100-701660">Ariana Grande's We Can't Be Friends debuts at no 1 on Billboard Hot 100</a>

Alex Garland's upcoming flick Civil War comes at a time when people of the US are active politically considering the elections. The same can be said about India as the film gears for its premiere in the country.

Alex Garland's upcoming flick Civil War comes at a time when people of the US are active politically considering the elections. The same can be said about India as the film gears for its premiere in the country. Civil War promises to show a different side of the US with ordinary citizens taking up arms against each other leading to a bloodbath on the streets. Calling itself a war epic, Alex’s film is a wholly consuming and thought-provoking war epic that uses the experience and motivations of a group of military-embedded journalists to highlight the chilling reality of living in a world that never learns. In the film, the maker explores the unwavering commitment to truth through the lens of journalism with an aim to spark vital discourse and inspire viewers to critically evaluate the information they encounter on a daily basis via traditional or social media channels. In the film, Academy Award nominee Kirsten Dunst plays a jaded photojournalist documenting the end of democracy as we know it in what's sure to be one of the year’s most controversial films. This gritty, war-torn film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny, Stephen McKinley Henderson, and Jesse Plemons. Also read: Jewish celebs issue letter denouncing Zone of Interest's Jonathan Glazer's Oscars speech One of the most anticipated movies in a contentious Red vs. Blue election year, A24‘s Civil War promises to make you face harsh realities of a world where we have forgotten what living in a democracy feels like. Set in the dystopian future, the film will be depicting the harrowing and senseless realities of war. The story is that of the US in which a three-term demagogue president rules. Civil War follows a war journalist, played by Kirsten Dunst, as she traverses a very hostile America. Speaking on the film, Alex said that he wanted to make journalists the heroes in Civil War because in “every democracy they aren’t a luxury, but a necessity.” Synopsis of Civil War Civil War follows a group of journalists. At the center of this is veteran war photographer Lee, played by Kirsten Dunst, who has seen more death than many would in a lifetime. Now, she must cover a conflict in her own country and grapple with what this means. She takes aspiring young photographer Jessie (Cailee Spaeny) under her wing as she plans to travel across the country with her colleagues Joel (Wagner Moura) and Sammy (Stephen McKinley Henderson) to interview the president (Offerman) before what is believed to be the violent end of his regime. Civil War will release in India and elsewhere on April 12. Also read: Ariana Grande's We Can't Be Friends debuts at no 1 on Billboard Hot 100

Alex Garland's Civil War to release in India on April 12

Sudan's Army has seized control of the country's National radio and television headquarters from rival paramilitary rapid support forces of the RSF. The capture comes after weeks of siege and follows the destruction of a large RSF Force attempting to escape the besieged headquarters. Watch to know more!

Sudan Civil War: Army claims control of broadcast building

More than 10 months since the Civil War in Sudan broke out. Sudanese Army says that it has succeeded in connecting its two main bases in the city of Omdurman. Soldiers of the Sudanese armed forces were seen inspecting destroyed residential buildings and shops after months of the city being a raging battlefield.

Sudanese army re-capture key bases being used by rival RSF

Myanmar's military conscription plan seemingly reveals the heavy toll that months of incessant fighting against Rebels has had on its troops. It also points to the struggles the generals are facing to replenish their ranks. The plan comes after the Junta lost control of swathes of territory along the front line that stretches from the highlands bordering China to the coastline near Bangladesh. Watch to know more!

Myanmar Civil war: Conscription shows Junta's weakening grip?

US Republican Party Presidential hopeful Nikki Haley was in a damage-control mode on Thursday (Dec 28) after her apparent avoidance of linking&nbsp;the American Civil War with slavery drew flak from the public, her opponents from within the Republican Party and even US President Joe Biden.

"Of course, the Civil War was about slavery, that's the easy part," said Haley on The Pulse of NH, a radio show

"Yes, I know it was about slavery. I am from the South."

Earlier, on Wednesday, Haley held a town hall in the northern state of New Hampshire during which she was asked by an audience member what she thought was the cause of the Civil War.

Gravitas: Spy wars: US vs China

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Haley paused before saying, "Well, don't come at me with an easy question."

"I mean, I think the cause of the Civil War was basically how government was going to run, what you could and couldn't do, the freedoms in what people could and couldn't do," she said.

There was some back-and-forth between Haley and the audience member after which he said, "In the year 2023, it's astonishing to me that you answer that question without mentioning the word 'slavery.'"

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-woman-falls-to-her-death-after-slipping-off-a-cliff-at-new-york-state-park-674400">US: Woman falls to her death after slipping off a cliff at New York State park</a>

Historians and scholars agree that the issue of slavery was deeply associated with the American Civil War which was fought between 1861 and 1865 after southern states seceded from the union opposing efforts of the northern states to limit slavery.

<h2>The backlash</h2>

Haley's opponents within the Republican Party jumped at the opportunity to criticise her.

"If Nikki Haley can't answer this basic political 101 question and then it takes her over 12 hrs to sloppily attempt to clean it up, she just isn't ready for the bright lights of the nomination process," wrote David Polyansky, senior advisor to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, on X.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestine-rallies-block-jfk-and-lax-airports-dozens-arrested-as-protests-turn-unruly-674306">Pro-Palestine rallies in US block JFK and LAX airports, dozens arrested as protesters turn unruly</a>

DeSantis is also trying to win the Republican presidential nomination.

US President Joe Biden quoted a post on X which had a video of Haley's interaction at the town hall.

"It was about slavery," wrote Biden.

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It was about slavery. <a href="https://t.co/q9bTDvtPne">https://t.co/q9bTDvtPne</a>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1740221284284256645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Haley has a history of defending some aspects of the Confederacy, as the seceded states were known. From 2011 to 2017, Haley was governor of South Carolina, the first state that seceded.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Republican Party Presidential hopeful Nikki Haley was in a damage-control mode on Thursday (Dec 28) after her apparent avoidance of linking the American Civil War with slavery drew flak from the public, her opponents from within the Republican Party and even US President Joe Biden.

US Republican Party Presidential hopeful Nikki Haley was in a damage-control mode on Thursday (Dec 28) after her apparent avoidance of linking the American Civil War with slavery drew flak from the public, her opponents from within the Republican Party and even US President Joe Biden. "Of course, the Civil War was about slavery, that's the easy part," said Haley on The Pulse of NH, a radio show "Yes, I know it was about slavery. I am from the South." Earlier, on Wednesday, Haley held a town hall in the northern state of New Hampshire during which she was asked by an audience member what she thought was the cause of the Civil War. Gravitas: Spy wars: US vs China × Haley paused before saying, "Well, don't come at me with an easy question." "I mean, I think the cause of the Civil War was basically how government was going to run, what you could and couldn't do, the freedoms in what people could and couldn't do," she said. There was some back-and-forth between Haley and the audience member after which he said, "In the year 2023, it's astonishing to me that you answer that question without mentioning the word 'slavery.'" Also Read | US: Woman falls to her death after slipping off a cliff at New York State park Historians and scholars agree that the issue of slavery was deeply associated with the American Civil War which was fought between 1861 and 1865 after southern states seceded from the union opposing efforts of the northern states to limit slavery. The backlash Haley's opponents within the Republican Party jumped at the opportunity to criticise her. "If Nikki Haley can't answer this basic political 101 question and then it takes her over 12 hrs to sloppily attempt to clean it up, she just isn't ready for the bright lights of the nomination process," wrote David Polyansky, senior advisor to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, on X. Also Read | Pro-Palestine rallies in US block JFK and LAX airports, dozens arrested as protesters turn unruly DeSantis is also trying to win the Republican presidential nomination. US President Joe Biden quoted a post on X which had a video of Haley's interaction at the town hall. "It was about slavery," wrote Biden. It was about slavery. https://t.co/q9bTDvtPne — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) December 28, 2023 × Haley has a history of defending some aspects of the Confederacy, as the seceded states were known. From 2011 to 2017, Haley was governor of South Carolina, the first state that seceded. (With inputs from agencies)

Nikki Haley clarifies after backlash over not linking slavery and Civil War

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