Donald Trump reportedly spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone and discussed the Ukraine war, the US president told the New York Post in an interview aboard Air Force One on Friday (Feb 7). The report didn't mention when the interview exactly took place.&nbsp;
During the interview, Trump said he believes that the Russian leader &ldquo;does care&rdquo; about people dying on the battlefield. He added that he&rsquo;d better not say how many he times spoke with Putin.
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&ldquo;He wants to see people stop dying,&rdquo; said Trump. &ldquo;All those dead people. Young, young, beautiful people. They&rsquo;re like your kids, two million of them &ndash; and for no reason.&rdquo;
Trump added that the war that began three years ago &ldquo;never would have happened&rdquo; if he were the president in 2022. He said that he always had a good relationship with Putin, unlike his predecessor Joe Biden, who he believes was &ldquo;a complete embarrassment&rdquo; to the nation.
<h2>Kremlin says cannot confirm or deny Putin's call with Trump</h2>
The Kremlin has declined to confirm or deny the call between the two leaders on Sunday (Feb 9). Neither Washington nor Moscow have officially confirmed any communication between the leaders since the US president took office and vowed to end the war.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov in comments to TASS state news agency said, &ldquo;What can I say about this news item? As the administration in Washington expands its work, many different communications arise. And these communications are held through various channels.&rdquo;
&ldquo;And of course, given these multiple communications, I personally can not know something, not be aware of something. Therefore in this case I can't either confirm or deny this.&rdquo;
<h2>Trump has a &lsquo;strong plan&rsquo; to end war</h2>
The US president said that he has a strong plan to bring the war to an end.
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&ldquo;I hope it&rsquo;s fast. Every day people are dying. This war is so bad in Ukraine. I want to end this damn thing.&rdquo;
Speaking to National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who was also present during the interview, Trump said, &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s get these meetings going. They want to meet. Every day people are dying. Young handsome soldiers are being killed. Young men, like my sons. On both sides. All over the battlefield.&rdquo;
The president said that he wants to strike a $500 million deal with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky to access rare minerals and gas in exchange for security guarantees in any potential peace agreement.
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Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to meet Zelensky at the Munich Security Conference next week.
<h2>&lsquo;Would like a deal done with Iran&rsquo;</h2>
On Iran, Trump told the New York Post that he would like to make a deal with Iran on 'non-nuclear'.
&ldquo;I would prefer that to bombing the hell out of it... They don&rsquo;t want to die. Nobody wants to die,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;If we made the deal, Israel wouldn&rsquo;t bomb them.&rdquo;
However, he added that he would not reveal the details of any potential talks with Iran, saying, &ldquo;In a way, I don&rsquo;t like telling you what I&rsquo;m going to tell them. You know, it&rsquo;s not nice.&rdquo;
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&ldquo;I could tell what I have to tell them, and I hope they decide that they&rsquo;re not going to do what they&rsquo;re currently thinking of doing. And I think they&rsquo;ll really be happy,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;d tell them I&rsquo;d make a deal.&rdquo;
When asked about what he would offer Iran in return, Trump said, &ldquo;I can&rsquo;t say that because it&rsquo;s too nasty. I won&rsquo;t bomb them.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trump added that the war that began three years ago “never would have happened” if he were the president in 2022. He said that he always had a good relationship with Putin, unlike his predecessor Joe Biden.

Donald Trump reportedly spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone and discussed the Ukraine war, the US president told the New York Post in an interview aboard Air Force One on Friday (Feb 7). The report didn't mention when the interview exactly took place. During the interview, Trump said he believes that the Russian leader “does care” about people dying on the battlefield. He added that he’d better not say how many he times spoke with Putin. Also read | South Africa slams Trump’s aid freeze over land reform ‘misinformation’ “He wants to see people stop dying,” said Trump. “All those dead people. Young, young, beautiful people. They’re like your kids, two million of them – and for no reason.” Trump added that the war that began three years ago “never would have happened” if he were the president in 2022. He said that he always had a good relationship with Putin, unlike his predecessor Joe Biden, who he believes was “a complete embarrassment” to the nation. Kremlin says cannot confirm or deny Putin's call with Trump The Kremlin has declined to confirm or deny the call between the two leaders on Sunday (Feb 9). Neither Washington nor Moscow have officially confirmed any communication between the leaders since the US president took office and vowed to end the war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov in comments to TASS state news agency said, “What can I say about this news item? As the administration in Washington expands its work, many different communications arise. And these communications are held through various channels.” “And of course, given these multiple communications, I personally can not know something, not be aware of something. Therefore in this case I can't either confirm or deny this.” Trump has a ‘strong plan’ to end war The US president said that he has a strong plan to bring the war to an end. Also read | How Donald Trump's 'tremendous resentment for Japan' fueled his tariff obsession “I hope it’s fast. Every day people are dying. This war is so bad in Ukraine. I want to end this damn thing.” Speaking to National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who was also present during the interview, Trump said, “Let’s get these meetings going. They want to meet. Every day people are dying. Young handsome soldiers are being killed. Young men, like my sons. On both sides. All over the battlefield.” The president said that he wants to strike a $500 million deal with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky to access rare minerals and gas in exchange for security guarantees in any potential peace agreement. Also read | 'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations', Zelensky claims Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to meet Zelensky at the Munich Security Conference next week. ‘Would like a deal done with Iran’ On Iran, Trump told the New York Post that he would like to make a deal with Iran on 'non-nuclear'. “I would prefer that to bombing the hell out of it... They don’t want to die. Nobody wants to die,” he said. “If we made the deal, Israel wouldn’t bomb them.” However, he added that he would not reveal the details of any potential talks with Iran, saying, “In a way, I don’t like telling you what I’m going to tell them. You know, it’s not nice.” Also read | 'Demise has arrived': Iranian dissidents, empowered by Trump's 'maximum pressure' policy, demand regime’s fall “I could tell what I have to tell them, and I hope they decide that they’re not going to do what they’re currently thinking of doing. And I think they’ll really be happy,” he said. “I’d tell them I’d make a deal.” When asked about what he would offer Iran in return, Trump said, “I can’t say that because it’s too nasty. I won’t bomb them.” (With inputs from agencies)

Trump talks to Putin, says Russian president ‘wants to see people stop dying’ in Ukraine war: Report

A day after a Treasury Department employee linked to Elon Musk&rsquo;s DOGE cost-cutting initiative stepped down following a Wall Street Journal report exposing his racist social media activity, the Trump administration has pledged to reinstate him.
&ldquo;He will be brought back,&rdquo; Musk announced on X. &ldquo;To err is human, to forgive divine.&rdquo;
Musk&rsquo;s statement came after both Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump showed support for the return of 25-year-old software engineer Marko Elez.
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Vice President Vance publicly defended Elez, one of two government employees associated with Musk who had been granted access to sensitive taxpayer data.
"Here's my view: I obviously disagree with some of Elez's posts, but I don't think stupid social media activity should ruin a kid's life," Vance wrote.
During a press conference on Friday, Trump was asked about the demands for Elez&rsquo;s reinstatement. He indicated that he supported Vance&rsquo;s position.
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&ldquo;Well, I don&rsquo;t know about that particular thing, but if the vice president said that,&rdquo; Trump stated, before turning to Vance, who was present at the event, and confirming his stance. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m with the vice president.&rdquo;
Elez was one of only two individuals linked to DOGE who had been permitted by a federal court to access the Treasury Department system, which oversees the distribution of over $5 trillion annually. A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked DOGE from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans.&nbsp;
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-donald-trumps-tremendous-resentment-for-japan-fueled-his-tariff-obsession-8703283"></a>Earlier on Friday, Musk conducted a poll on X, asking users whether Elez should be reinstated. The results showed that 78% supported his return to the Department of Government Efficiency.
Elez resigned on Thursday after the Wall Street Journal revealed his past racist social media comments. According to the report, one of his posts from July read: "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool."
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Other posts reportedly included statements such as "Normalize Indian hate" and "You could not pay me to marry outside of my ethnicity."
Before his brief tenure in the federal government, Elez had worked at two of Musk&rsquo;s private companies&mdash;SpaceX and X.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Musk’s statement came after both Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump showed support for the return of 25-year-old software engineer Marko Elez.

A day after a Treasury Department employee linked to Elon Musk’s DOGE cost-cutting initiative stepped down following a Wall Street Journal report exposing his racist social media activity, the Trump administration has pledged to reinstate him. “He will be brought back,” Musk announced on X. “To err is human, to forgive divine.” Musk’s statement came after both Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump showed support for the return of 25-year-old software engineer Marko Elez. Also read: How Donald Trump's 'tremendous resentment for Japan' fueled his tariff obsession Vice President Vance publicly defended Elez, one of two government employees associated with Musk who had been granted access to sensitive taxpayer data. "Here's my view: I obviously disagree with some of Elez's posts, but I don't think stupid social media activity should ruin a kid's life," Vance wrote. During a press conference on Friday, Trump was asked about the demands for Elez’s reinstatement. He indicated that he supported Vance’s position. Also read: American Transgenders woe as passport process gets complicated for them amid Trump's new policy “Well, I don’t know about that particular thing, but if the vice president said that,” Trump stated, before turning to Vance, who was present at the event, and confirming his stance. “I’m with the vice president.” Elez was one of only two individuals linked to DOGE who had been permitted by a federal court to access the Treasury Department system, which oversees the distribution of over $5 trillion annually. A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked DOGE from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans. Also read: Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center Earlier on Friday, Musk conducted a poll on X, asking users whether Elez should be reinstated. The results showed that 78% supported his return to the Department of Government Efficiency. Elez resigned on Thursday after the Wall Street Journal revealed his past racist social media comments. According to the report, one of his posts from July read: "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool." Also read: Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing' Other posts reportedly included statements such as "Normalize Indian hate" and "You could not pay me to marry outside of my ethnicity." Before his brief tenure in the federal government, Elez had worked at two of Musk’s private companies—SpaceX and X. (With inputs from agencies)

‘To err is human’: Musk to reinstate DOGE staffer ousted over racist posts after Trump, Vance back him

Justin Trudeau has warned that Donald Trump's intention to absorb Canada into the United States is a "real thing" as he aims to acquire the country's rich natural resources. Trudeau also suggested ways to deal with Trump's threats of imposing hefty tariffs on all Canadian imports.&nbsp;
Trump, on various occasions, has mocked Trudeau, calling him "governor" instead of prime minister and referring to Canada as the "51st state".&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-intercepts-people-attempting-to-cross-the-border-in-incredibly-cold-weather-8700643">Canada intercepts people attempting to cross the border in 'incredibly cold' weather</a>
While speaking in Toronto at the opening of a one-day summit on the Canada-US economic relationship, the outgoing prime minister said that the country must work with the US to avoid tariffs. It was a closed-door session of business and labour leaders.&nbsp;
Trump withdrew tariffs earlier this week that would have destroyed Canada's economy. The US gave Canada a 30-day reprieve for additional talks.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icc-condemns-trumps-sanctions-says-it-seeks-to-harm-its-independent-impartial-judicial-work-8700398">ICC condemns Trump's sanctions, says it seeks to 'harm its independent, impartial judicial work'</a>&nbsp;
As quoted by media reports, Trudeau told attendees, "I suggest that not only does the Trump administration know how many critical minerals we have but that may be even why they keep talking about absorbing us and making us the 51st state."&nbsp;
"They're very aware of our resources, of what we have and they very much want to be able to benefit from those. But Mr Trump has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country," he added.&nbsp;
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<h2>'...it is a real thing'&nbsp;</h2>
So far, there aren't any official remarks on Trudeau's comments, which were first reported by the Toronto Star. It said that the comments were mistakenly carried by a loudspeaker. News agency Reuters reported that the government source confirmed that the Star's account of the remarks was accurate.&nbsp;
"They're very aware of our resources, of what we have and they very much want to be able to benefit from those," the Star quoted Trudeau as saying.&nbsp;
"But Mr. Trump has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country. And it is a real thing."&nbsp;
While responding to reporters about Trudeau's comments, Trade Minister Anita Anand said Canada was resolved to resist any US expansionism.&nbsp;
"There will be no messing with the 49th parallel, period," Anand said as she referred to the US-Canadian border.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Justin Trudeau warns that Donald Trump's plan to absorb Canada into the US is a real threat, aiming to acquire Canada's rich natural resources amid economic tensions.

Justin Trudeau has warned that Donald Trump's intention to absorb Canada into the United States is a "real thing" as he aims to acquire the country's rich natural resources. Trudeau also suggested ways to deal with Trump's threats of imposing hefty tariffs on all Canadian imports. Trump, on various occasions, has mocked Trudeau, calling him "governor" instead of prime minister and referring to Canada as the "51st state". Also read: Canada intercepts people attempting to cross the border in 'incredibly cold' weather While speaking in Toronto at the opening of a one-day summit on the Canada-US economic relationship, the outgoing prime minister said that the country must work with the US to avoid tariffs. It was a closed-door session of business and labour leaders. Trump withdrew tariffs earlier this week that would have destroyed Canada's economy. The US gave Canada a 30-day reprieve for additional talks. Also read: ICC condemns Trump's sanctions, says it seeks to 'harm its independent, impartial judicial work' As quoted by media reports, Trudeau told attendees, "I suggest that not only does the Trump administration know how many critical minerals we have but that may be even why they keep talking about absorbing us and making us the 51st state." "They're very aware of our resources, of what we have and they very much want to be able to benefit from those. But Mr Trump has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country," he added. Also read: 'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump slams Biden's paper straws, to sign executive order next week to undo ban '...it is a real thing' So far, there aren't any official remarks on Trudeau's comments, which were first reported by the Toronto Star. It said that the comments were mistakenly carried by a loudspeaker. News agency Reuters reported that the government source confirmed that the Star's account of the remarks was accurate. "They're very aware of our resources, of what we have and they very much want to be able to benefit from those," the Star quoted Trudeau as saying. "But Mr. Trump has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country. And it is a real thing." While responding to reporters about Trudeau's comments, Trade Minister Anita Anand said Canada was resolved to resist any US expansionism. "There will be no messing with the 49th parallel, period," Anand said as she referred to the US-Canadian border. (With inputs from agencies)

Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing'

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 7) said that the USAID is driving the "radical left" crazy but they can not do anything about it. He stressed that the "corruption" is at levels rarely seen before".&nbsp;
Trump took to Truth Social and posted, "USAID is driving the radical left crazy, and there is nothing they can do about it because the way in which the money has been spent, so much of it fraudulently, is totally unexplainable."
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He further stressed to "close it down".&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113963085497636545/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

The US aid agency could see its staff reduced from about 10,000 workers to around 300 workers amid Trump's move.&nbsp;
Some of the essential staff are already set to be placed on administration leave at midnight on Friday. According to an online notice, a plan is being prepared for return travel and the termination of non-essential contractors.&nbsp;
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Amid this cut on USAID, hundreds of programmes have already been frozen in countries worldwide.&nbsp;
Moreover, the US president signed an executive order to pause foreign assistance by the agency for 90 days, alleging &ldquo;USAID is being run by radical lunatics", vowing he would end the "waste, fraud and abuse" by the agency.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, in a video on the social media platform YouTube, House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Brian Mast exposed a list of shocking spending by the agency. It included allocating condoms worth millions to the Taliban for funding LGBTQ propaganda.&nbsp;
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The critics reacted to the foreign aid cuts, saying that it could have dire consequences for global aid efforts.&nbsp;
&ldquo;That&rsquo;s outrageous,&rdquo; said J Brian Atwood, who led USAID for over six years. He warned that gutting the agency would effectively dismantle a program that has saved millions of lives. &ldquo;A lot of people will not survive,&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790" rel="dofollow">President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The US aid agency could see its staff reduced from about 10,000 workers to around 300 workers amid US President Donald Trump's move. 

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 7) said that the USAID is driving the "radical left" crazy but they can not do anything about it. He stressed that the "corruption" is at levels rarely seen before". Trump took to Truth Social and posted, "USAID is driving the radical left crazy, and there is nothing they can do about it because the way in which the money has been spent, so much of it fraudulently, is totally unexplainable." Also read: From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ propaganda, shocking spending by USAID under Biden He further stressed to "close it down". The US aid agency could see its staff reduced from about 10,000 workers to around 300 workers amid Trump's move. Some of the essential staff are already set to be placed on administration leave at midnight on Friday. According to an online notice, a plan is being prepared for return travel and the termination of non-essential contractors. Also read: Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home Amid this cut on USAID, hundreds of programmes have already been frozen in countries worldwide. Moreover, the US president signed an executive order to pause foreign assistance by the agency for 90 days, alleging “USAID is being run by radical lunatics", vowing he would end the "waste, fraud and abuse" by the agency. Meanwhile, in a video on the social media platform YouTube, House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Brian Mast exposed a list of shocking spending by the agency. It included allocating condoms worth millions to the Taliban for funding LGBTQ propaganda. Also read: ‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director The critics reacted to the foreign aid cuts, saying that it could have dire consequences for global aid efforts. “That’s outrageous,” said J Brian Atwood, who led USAID for over six years. He warned that gutting the agency would effectively dismantle a program that has saved millions of lives. “A lot of people will not survive,” Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk (With inputs from agencies)

'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300

The International Criminal Court slammed sanctions Friday slapped by US President Donald Trump over its probes targeting America and Israel and pledged to press on with its aim to fight for "justice and hope" around the world.
The United Nations and the European Union also urged Trump on Friday to reverse the decision ordering asset freezes and travel bans against ICC officials, employees and their family members, along with anyone deemed to have helped the court's investigations.
The sanctions could impact the court's technical and IT operations, including evidence gathering. There are fears victims of alleged atrocities may hesitate to come forward.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-slaps-sanctions-on-icc-over-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-baseless-arrest-warrant-8697704" rel="dofollow">Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu</a>
Trump signed an executive order Thursday saying the court in The Hague had "abused its power" by issuing an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who held talks with the US president on Tuesday.
The ICC said the move sought to "harm its independent and impartial judicial work".
"The Court stands firmly by its personnel and pledges to continue providing justice and hope to millions of innocent victims of atrocities across the world," it said.&nbsp;
The United Nations said it deeply regretted Trump's decision and urged him to reverse the move.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-executive-order-sanctioning-icc-for-targeting-us-israel-8697513" rel="dofollow">Trump to sign executive order sanctioning ICC for targeting US, Israel</a>
<h2>'Undermines' justice system&nbsp;</h2>
"The court should be fully able to undertake its independent work -- where a state is unwilling or unable genuinely to carry out the investigation or prosecution," UN human rights office OHCHR spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told AFP in an email.
"The rule of law remains essential to our collective peace and security. Seeking accountability globally makes the world a safer place for everyone."
Antonio Costa, who heads the European Council representing the EU's 27 member states, wrote on X that the move "undermines the international criminal justice system".
The European Commission separately expressed "regret", stressing the ICC's "key importance in upholding international criminal justice and the fight against impunity."
The executive order risks "affecting ongoing investigations and proceedings, including as regards Ukraine, impacting years of efforts to ensure accountability around the world," said a commission spokesman.
The names of the individuals affected by the sanctions were not immediately released, but previous US sanctions under Trump had targeted the court's prosecutor.
Trump's order said the tribunal had engaged in "illegitimate and baseless actions targeting America and our close ally Israel," referring to ICC probes into alleged war crimes by US service members in Afghanistan and Israeli troops in Gaza.
Israel's foreign minister applauded Trump, calling the court's actions against Israel illegitimate.
"I strongly commend @POTUS President Trump's executive order imposing sanctions on the so-called 'international criminal court'," Gideon Saar wrote on X, adding that the ICC's actions were "immoral and have no legal basis".
Neither the United States nor Israel are members of the court.
<h2>'Criminal responsibility'&nbsp;</h2>
Following a request by ICC prosecutor Karim Khan, judges issued arrest warrants on November 21 for Netanyahu, his former defence minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas's military chief Mohammed Deif -- whom Israel says is dead.
The court said it had found "reasonable grounds" to believe Netanyahu and Gallant bore "criminal responsibility" for the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare during the Gaza war, as well as the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts.
Netanyahu has accused the court of anti-Semitism.
During his first term, Trump imposed financial sanctions and a visa ban on the ICC's then prosecutor Fatou Bensouda, and other senior officials and staff in 2020.&nbsp;
His administration made the move after Gambian-born Bensouda launched an investigation into allegations of war crimes against US soldiers in Afghanistan.
While his order at the time did not name Israel, Trump administration officials said they were also angered by Bensouda's opening of a probe into the situation in the Palestinian territories in 2019.
President Joe Biden lifted the sanctions soon after taking office in 2021.
Prosecutor Khan later effectively dropped the US from the Afghan investigation and focused on the Taliban instead. &nbsp;
Biden strongly condemned the "outrageous" warrant against Netanyahu in November.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The sanctions could impact the court's technical and IT operations, including evidence gathering. There are fears victims of alleged atrocities may hesitate to come forward.

The International Criminal Court slammed sanctions Friday slapped by US President Donald Trump over its probes targeting America and Israel and pledged to press on with its aim to fight for "justice and hope" around the world. The United Nations and the European Union also urged Trump on Friday to reverse the decision ordering asset freezes and travel bans against ICC officials, employees and their family members, along with anyone deemed to have helped the court's investigations. The sanctions could impact the court's technical and IT operations, including evidence gathering. There are fears victims of alleged atrocities may hesitate to come forward. Also read: Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu Trump signed an executive order Thursday saying the court in The Hague had "abused its power" by issuing an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who held talks with the US president on Tuesday. The ICC said the move sought to "harm its independent and impartial judicial work". "The Court stands firmly by its personnel and pledges to continue providing justice and hope to millions of innocent victims of atrocities across the world," it said. The United Nations said it deeply regretted Trump's decision and urged him to reverse the move. Also read: Trump to sign executive order sanctioning ICC for targeting US, Israel 'Undermines' justice system "The court should be fully able to undertake its independent work -- where a state is unwilling or unable genuinely to carry out the investigation or prosecution," UN human rights office OHCHR spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told AFP in an email. "The rule of law remains essential to our collective peace and security. Seeking accountability globally makes the world a safer place for everyone." Antonio Costa, who heads the European Council representing the EU's 27 member states, wrote on X that the move "undermines the international criminal justice system". The European Commission separately expressed "regret", stressing the ICC's "key importance in upholding international criminal justice and the fight against impunity." The executive order risks "affecting ongoing investigations and proceedings, including as regards Ukraine, impacting years of efforts to ensure accountability around the world," said a commission spokesman. The names of the individuals affected by the sanctions were not immediately released, but previous US sanctions under Trump had targeted the court's prosecutor. Trump's order said the tribunal had engaged in "illegitimate and baseless actions targeting America and our close ally Israel," referring to ICC probes into alleged war crimes by US service members in Afghanistan and Israeli troops in Gaza. Israel's foreign minister applauded Trump, calling the court's actions against Israel illegitimate. "I strongly commend @POTUS President Trump's executive order imposing sanctions on the so-called 'international criminal court'," Gideon Saar wrote on X, adding that the ICC's actions were "immoral and have no legal basis". Neither the United States nor Israel are members of the court. 'Criminal responsibility' Following a request by ICC prosecutor Karim Khan, judges issued arrest warrants on November 21 for Netanyahu, his former defence minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas's military chief Mohammed Deif -- whom Israel says is dead. The court said it had found "reasonable grounds" to believe Netanyahu and Gallant bore "criminal responsibility" for the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare during the Gaza war, as well as the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts. Netanyahu has accused the court of anti-Semitism. During his first term, Trump imposed financial sanctions and a visa ban on the ICC's then prosecutor Fatou Bensouda, and other senior officials and staff in 2020. His administration made the move after Gambian-born Bensouda launched an investigation into allegations of war crimes against US soldiers in Afghanistan. While his order at the time did not name Israel, Trump administration officials said they were also angered by Bensouda's opening of a probe into the situation in the Palestinian territories in 2019. President Joe Biden lifted the sanctions soon after taking office in 2021. Prosecutor Khan later effectively dropped the US from the Afghan investigation and focused on the Taliban instead. Biden strongly condemned the "outrageous" warrant against Netanyahu in November. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

ICC condemns Trump's sanctions, says it seeks to 'harm its independent, impartial judicial work'

US President Donald Trump announced he wants to end "anti-Christian bias" from America for which he was creating a White House faith office which will be led by the newly chosen Attorney General Pam Bondi. The task force will work to investigate the "targeting" of Christians across the US.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-attorney-general-pick-pam-bondi-says-shell-end-weaponisation-of-us-justice-8625169">Trump's attorney general pick Pam Bondi says she'll end 'weaponisation' of US justice</a>
The US president, while addressing an event in Washington surrounding the National Prayer Breakfast, said the force would be directed to &ldquo;immediately halt all forms of anti-Christian targeting and discrimination within the federal government, including at the DOJ, which was terrible, the IRS, the FBI &mdash; terrible &mdash; and other agencies."
Trump further added that Bondi would work to &ldquo;fully prosecute anti-Christian violence" and vandalism in American society. The force would "move heaven and earth to defend the rights of Christians and religious believers nationwide," said Trump. &nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-regretting-taking-this-job-susie-wiles-wide-eye-stare-at-trump-while-he-announces-jaw-dropping-plan-for-gaza-8698142">Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable</a>
Hours after the event, Trump signed an executive order directing the new task force to identify policies and practices that are unlawful. They are further instructed to suggest any additional presidential or legislative action.&nbsp;
Trump's Thursday announcement could raise questions on the law that separates church and state, as per the US &nbsp;Constitution's First Amendment. The law limits government endorsement of religions.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-of-these-aliens-donald-trump-administration-sues-chicago-over-sanctuary-laws-8697819">'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws</a>
Trump has repeatedly tried creating a religious anointing since he faced his first assassination attempt during the 2024 presidential campaign. "Many people have told me that God spared my life for a reason," Trump had said in his speeches around the country.&nbsp;
Moreover, he has also gained the faith of American Christians via his conservative policies such as changing gender norms in sports and the US military.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-slaps-sanctions-on-icc-over-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-baseless-arrest-warrant-8697704">Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | Hours after the event, Trump signed an executive order directing the new task force to identify the policies and practices that are unlawful.

US President Donald Trump announced he wants to end "anti-Christian bias" from America for which he was creating a White House faith office which will be led by the newly chosen Attorney General Pam Bondi. The task force will work to investigate the "targeting" of Christians across the US. Also read: Trump's attorney general pick Pam Bondi says she'll end 'weaponisation' of US justice The US president, while addressing an event in Washington surrounding the National Prayer Breakfast, said the force would be directed to “immediately halt all forms of anti-Christian targeting and discrimination within the federal government, including at the DOJ, which was terrible, the IRS, the FBI — terrible — and other agencies." Trump further added that Bondi would work to “fully prosecute anti-Christian violence" and vandalism in American society. The force would "move heaven and earth to defend the rights of Christians and religious believers nationwide," said Trump. Also read: Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable Hours after the event, Trump signed an executive order directing the new task force to identify policies and practices that are unlawful. They are further instructed to suggest any additional presidential or legislative action. Trump's Thursday announcement could raise questions on the law that separates church and state, as per the US Constitution's First Amendment. The law limits government endorsement of religions. Also read: 'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws Trump has repeatedly tried creating a religious anointing since he faced his first assassination attempt during the 2024 presidential campaign. "Many people have told me that God spared my life for a reason," Trump had said in his speeches around the country. Moreover, he has also gained the faith of American Christians via his conservative policies such as changing gender norms in sports and the US military. Also read: Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu (With inputs from agencies)

Trump to create faith office to end 'anti-Christian bias' in America

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> will sign an executive order on Thursday (Feb 6) sanctioning the International Criminal Court (ICC), accusing the global body of improperly targeting America and Israel, NBC News reported, as it obtained a copy of a fact sheet supporting the order.&nbsp;
The upcoming order will also include both financial sanctions and visa restrictions against unspecified ICC officials and their family members who have assisted in ICC investigations of US citizens or allies.&nbsp;
The ICC triggered a bipartisan backlash in Washington in November last year as it issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and several Hamas leaders.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-criminal-court-prosecutor-seeks-arrest-warrants-for-netanyahu-3-hamas-leaders-723520" rel="dofollow"> International Criminal Court prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Netanyahu, 3 Hamas leaders</a>
<h2>'Shameful moral equivalency'</h2>
According to the Trump administration's order, it claimed that this created a "shameful moral equivalency."
The ICC stressed that there was a reason to believe that the Israeli PM and Gallant used "starvation as a method of warfare" by restricting humanitarian aid and intentionally targeting civilians in Gaza.&nbsp;
The Israeli officials dismissed the allegations, calling them false and antisemitic.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-us-soldiers-needed-trump-restates-his-take-over-plan-says-israel-would-handover-gaza-after-fighting-8697112" rel="dofollow">'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting</a>
On the first day of his office, Trump signed an executive order reinstating an earlier order that could serve as a legal basis for future sanctions against the ICC and its personnel.&nbsp;
Last month, the US House of Representatives also voted to impose sanctions on the ICC, although the legislation has yet to be okayed in the Senate.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-foreign-aid-freeze-to-ending-birthright-citizenship-series-of-trumps-actions-that-defy-us-laws-8697369">From foreign aid freeze to ending birthright citizenship, series of Trump's actions that defy US laws</a>
Trump, during his first term, said that the ICC has "no jurisdiction, no legitimacy, and no authority" in the US, and neither the US nor Israel are parties to the "so-called Rome Statute", which established the court.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The ICC said that there was a reason to believe that the Israeli PM and Gallant used "starvation as a method of warfare" by intentionally targeting civilians in Gaza. 

US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order on Thursday (Feb 6) sanctioning the International Criminal Court (ICC), accusing the global body of improperly targeting America and Israel, NBC News reported, as it obtained a copy of a fact sheet supporting the order. The upcoming order will also include both financial sanctions and visa restrictions against unspecified ICC officials and their family members who have assisted in ICC investigations of US citizens or allies. The ICC triggered a bipartisan backlash in Washington in November last year as it issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and several Hamas leaders. Also read: International Criminal Court prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Netanyahu, 3 Hamas leaders 'Shameful moral equivalency' According to the Trump administration's order, it claimed that this created a "shameful moral equivalency." The ICC stressed that there was a reason to believe that the Israeli PM and Gallant used "starvation as a method of warfare" by restricting humanitarian aid and intentionally targeting civilians in Gaza. The Israeli officials dismissed the allegations, calling them false and antisemitic. Also read: 'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting On the first day of his office, Trump signed an executive order reinstating an earlier order that could serve as a legal basis for future sanctions against the ICC and its personnel. Last month, the US House of Representatives also voted to impose sanctions on the ICC, although the legislation has yet to be okayed in the Senate. Also read: From foreign aid freeze to ending birthright citizenship, series of Trump's actions that defy US laws Trump, during his first term, said that the ICC has "no jurisdiction, no legitimacy, and no authority" in the US, and neither the US nor Israel are parties to the "so-called Rome Statute", which established the court. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump to sign executive order sanctioning ICC for targeting US, Israel

Soon after US President Donald Trump took office, he and his administration took several stringent measures against various old policies, defying legal limits.&nbsp;
However, other US presidents have occasionally claimed a constitutional right to bypass particular rights. But, Trump, in his opening weeks, blew through apparent legal limits.&nbsp;
Although some of Trump's actions have prompted legal challenges, his administration may be betting on rulings in its favour with a Republican-appointed Supreme Court supermajority.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-us-soldiers-needed-trump-restates-his-take-over-plan-says-israel-would-handover-gaza-after-fighting-8697112" rel="dofollow"> 'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his take over plan, says Israel would handover Gaza after fighting</a>
<h2>Here are some of the Trump administration's law-defying examples:</h2>
<h3>TikTok ban&nbsp;</h3>
The Trump administration ordered the Justice Department not to enforce a ban on TikTok for 75 days. It further asked them to notify the app and its business partners that defying the law is no criminal offence.
It could be violating the law barring TikTok from operating in the US unless and until its Chinese owner sells it.&nbsp;
<h3>Foreign aid freeze&nbsp;</h3>
The administration gave a blanket order to pause US-funded programmes and temporarily freeze most foreign aid.&nbsp;
As the longer it lasts, blocking congressionally approved spending comes into greater tension with Impoundment Control Act, The New York Times reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-push-to-ban-deepseek-americans-could-face-20-years-in-prison-or-1-mn-fine-for-downloading-app-8697172" rel="dofollow">US lawmakers push to ban DeepSeek; Americans could face 20 years in prison or $1 mn fine for downloading app</a>
<h3>US Agency for International Development&nbsp;</h3>
Trump moved to dismantle the USAID and turn its functions into the US State Department, as it also made Secretary of State Marco Rubio its acting director.
It could be violating a law in which Congress created USAID and structured it as a stand-alone entity.&nbsp;
<h3>Inspectors General&nbsp;</h3>
The Trump administration fired 17 inspectors general, including the watchdog officials who hunt for waste, fraud, abuse, and illegality in government agencies.
It might violate the law that states presidents have to give Congress 30 days&rsquo; notice and a written &ldquo;substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons&rdquo; before any such dismissal.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/federal-judge-temporary-halts-trumps-birthright-citizenship-order-8694258" rel="dofollow">Federal judge temporarily halts Trump&rsquo;s birthright citizenship order</a>
<h3>Domestic grants freeze</h3>
The Office of Management and Budget ordered agencies to carry out a blanket temporary freeze of up to $3 trillion in domestic grants and other government spending.
Following this, the freeze was temporarily blocked by two courts after plaintiffs raised challenges, including provisions in the Administrative Procedure Act and First Amendment rights.
<h3>National Labor Relations Board</h3>
Trump summarily fired a Democratic member of the independent agency before her term was up, hammering the board by leaving it without a quorum.&nbsp;
It violated the law, which states that presidents may only remove board members "upon notice and hearing, for neglect of duty or malfeasance in office, but for no other cause.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-places-usaid-global-staff-on-leave-orders-them-to-return-home-8694295">Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home</a>
<h3>Federal prosecutors&nbsp;</h3>
Trump fired prosecutors involved in the cases against him or the January 6 riots.&nbsp;
It could violate the law stating civil service job protections against arbitrarily firing federal workers without a reasonable cause and without holding hearings before the Merit System Protection Board.
<h3>Birthright citizenship</h3>
The Trump administration declared that the constitution's 14th Amendment will no longer be interpreted as granting citizenship to babies born on US soil to undocumented parents or visitors.&nbsp;
It could be violating the longstanding understanding that the 14th Amendment does grant citizenship to such infants. The federal judge on Tuesday barred agencies from following this order as of now.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Other US presidents have occasionally claimed a constitutional right to bypass particular rights. But, Trump, in his opening weeks, blew through apparent legal limits. 

Soon after US President Donald Trump took office, he and his administration took several stringent measures against various old policies, defying legal limits. However, other US presidents have occasionally claimed a constitutional right to bypass particular rights. But, Trump, in his opening weeks, blew through apparent legal limits. Although some of Trump's actions have prompted legal challenges, his administration may be betting on rulings in its favour with a Republican-appointed Supreme Court supermajority. Also read: 'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his take over plan, says Israel would handover Gaza after fighting Here are some of the Trump administration's law-defying examples: TikTok ban The Trump administration ordered the Justice Department not to enforce a ban on TikTok for 75 days. It further asked them to notify the app and its business partners that defying the law is no criminal offence. It could be violating the law barring TikTok from operating in the US unless and until its Chinese owner sells it. Foreign aid freeze The administration gave a blanket order to pause US-funded programmes and temporarily freeze most foreign aid. As the longer it lasts, blocking congressionally approved spending comes into greater tension with Impoundment Control Act, The New York Times reported. Also read: US lawmakers push to ban DeepSeek; Americans could face 20 years in prison or $1 mn fine for downloading app US Agency for International Development Trump moved to dismantle the USAID and turn its functions into the US State Department, as it also made Secretary of State Marco Rubio its acting director. It could be violating a law in which Congress created USAID and structured it as a stand-alone entity. Inspectors General The Trump administration fired 17 inspectors general, including the watchdog officials who hunt for waste, fraud, abuse, and illegality in government agencies. It might violate the law that states presidents have to give Congress 30 days’ notice and a written “substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons” before any such dismissal. Also read: Federal judge temporarily halts Trump’s birthright citizenship order Domestic grants freeze The Office of Management and Budget ordered agencies to carry out a blanket temporary freeze of up to $3 trillion in domestic grants and other government spending. Following this, the freeze was temporarily blocked by two courts after plaintiffs raised challenges, including provisions in the Administrative Procedure Act and First Amendment rights. National Labor Relations Board Trump summarily fired a Democratic member of the independent agency before her term was up, hammering the board by leaving it without a quorum. It violated the law, which states that presidents may only remove board members "upon notice and hearing, for neglect of duty or malfeasance in office, but for no other cause.” Also read: Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home Federal prosecutors Trump fired prosecutors involved in the cases against him or the January 6 riots. It could violate the law stating civil service job protections against arbitrarily firing federal workers without a reasonable cause and without holding hearings before the Merit System Protection Board. Birthright citizenship The Trump administration declared that the constitution's 14th Amendment will no longer be interpreted as granting citizenship to babies born on US soil to undocumented parents or visitors. It could be violating the longstanding understanding that the 14th Amendment does grant citizenship to such infants. The federal judge on Tuesday barred agencies from following this order as of now. (With inputs from agencies)

From foreign aid freeze to ending birthright citizenship, series of Trump's actions that defy US laws

Once again putting light on the Washington DC plane crash, US President Donald Trump said on Thursday (Feb 6) that the crew in the control tower at the airport were "understaffed" and promised to "cut the old system loose" and make a great new system.
Trump arrived at the Capitol for the National Prayer Breakfast with Speaker of the House of Representatives Mike Johnson.&nbsp;
While talking about the Washington, DC, plane crash, which happened last week, Trump reiterated to have better control and equipment.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-all-67-bodies-recovered-from-deadly-collision-8693363">Washington DC plane crash: All 67 bodies recovered from deadly collision</a>
"We should have better control, better equipment&mdash;we have to find out what exactly happened. It should have never happened. We have to sit down and have a better computerized system," he said.&nbsp;
He said the odds of two things colliding in space are so small that "we should have had proper controls in place."
Stressing that the crew in the control tower at the airport was understaffed, Trump said, "I guess the helicopter was too high, but we'll find out what happened."
"Let's make a great system, they used 39 different companies, which may add many complex. We need only one company and one set system," the US president added.
He vowed to cut the old system loose and "spend less money to build a great new system."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-50501-movement-protesters-rally-across-us-against-trumps-policies-8696409">What is 50501 movement? Protesters rally across US against Trump's policies</a>
<h2>'Reminds me of assassination attempt'</h2>
Trump said that the deadly plane crash tragedy reminds him of the attempt on his life last July, when a shooter fired on him at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, and struck his ear.&nbsp;
He then talked for a while about the assassination attempt before returning to the deadly crash.&nbsp;
The US president said the incident has reminded him that one could never know when their time would come.
"I feel even stronger," Trump said of his belief, saying that God was involved in such events.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-man-sitting-in-restaurant-hit-by-debris-from-philadelphia-plane-crash-8685220">Video: Man sitting in restaurant hit by debris from Philadelphia plane crash</a>
He began his remarks by saying, "Very beautiful", adding that the US is starting to do very well again. "It's happening fast, a little faster than people thought."
He said that the US will be celebrating its 250th anniversary in July next year, adding that he intends to honour the nation's heroes and celebrate by signing an executive order for the creation of a new national park.
<h2>What is National Prayer Breakfast?</h2>
The National Prayer Breakfast is an annual event, held on the first Thursday in February. It goes back to 1953 when President Dwight D Eisenhower was invited to join a prayer circle founded by Christian minister Abraham Vereide.
It has become one of the most important political events in Washington. It is a tradition for the US president to speak on the occasion.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sean-curran-agent-who-saved-trump-from-assassination-named-secret-service-chief-8645687">Sean Curran, agent who foiled Trump assassination bid, named Secret Service chief</a>
In past years, thousands of members of the American political establishment have met for a morning of eggs, coffee, and prayer.&nbsp;
However, this year it is being hosted by Congress inside the Capitol.&nbsp;
"An opportunity for Members of Congress to pray collectively for our nation, the President of the United States, and other national and international leaders in the spirit of love and reconciliation as Jesus of Nazareth taught 2,000 years ago," the National Prayer Breakfast Foundation website states.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: While talking about the Washington DC plane crash which happened last week, US President Trump reiterated to have better control and equipment. 

Once again putting light on the Washington DC plane crash, US President Donald Trump said on Thursday (Feb 6) that the crew in the control tower at the airport were "understaffed" and promised to "cut the old system loose" and make a great new system. Trump arrived at the Capitol for the National Prayer Breakfast with Speaker of the House of Representatives Mike Johnson. While talking about the Washington, DC, plane crash, which happened last week, Trump reiterated to have better control and equipment. Also read: Washington DC plane crash: All 67 bodies recovered from deadly collision "We should have better control, better equipment—we have to find out what exactly happened. It should have never happened. We have to sit down and have a better computerized system," he said. He said the odds of two things colliding in space are so small that "we should have had proper controls in place." Stressing that the crew in the control tower at the airport was understaffed, Trump said, "I guess the helicopter was too high, but we'll find out what happened." "Let's make a great system, they used 39 different companies, which may add many complex. We need only one company and one set system," the US president added. He vowed to cut the old system loose and "spend less money to build a great new system." Also read: What is 50501 movement? Protesters rally across US against Trump's policies 'Reminds me of assassination attempt' Trump said that the deadly plane crash tragedy reminds him of the attempt on his life last July, when a shooter fired on him at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, and struck his ear. He then talked for a while about the assassination attempt before returning to the deadly crash. The US president said the incident has reminded him that one could never know when their time would come. "I feel even stronger," Trump said of his belief, saying that God was involved in such events. Also read: Video: Man sitting in restaurant hit by debris from Philadelphia plane crash He began his remarks by saying, "Very beautiful", adding that the US is starting to do very well again. "It's happening fast, a little faster than people thought." He said that the US will be celebrating its 250th anniversary in July next year, adding that he intends to honour the nation's heroes and celebrate by signing an executive order for the creation of a new national park. What is National Prayer Breakfast? The National Prayer Breakfast is an annual event, held on the first Thursday in February. It goes back to 1953 when President Dwight D Eisenhower was invited to join a prayer circle founded by Christian minister Abraham Vereide. It has become one of the most important political events in Washington. It is a tradition for the US president to speak on the occasion. Also read: Sean Curran, agent who foiled Trump assassination bid, named Secret Service chief In past years, thousands of members of the American political establishment have met for a morning of eggs, coffee, and prayer. However, this year it is being hosted by Congress inside the Capitol. "An opportunity for Members of Congress to pray collectively for our nation, the President of the United States, and other national and international leaders in the spirit of love and reconciliation as Jesus of Nazareth taught 2,000 years ago," the National Prayer Breakfast Foundation website states. (With inputs from agencies)

Crew at airport's control tower 'understaffed',  says Trump as he vows to cut old system loose

The protesters gathered all across the US to protest President Donald Trump's administration's actions, from his immigration crackdown to the taking away of transgender rights and proposal to forcibly transfer Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
The demonstrators were protesting in 50 states across the country on Wednesday. They were seen taking part in the 50501 Movement.&nbsp;
The 50501 Movement, as it is being called, refers to "50 protests in 50 states on one day."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-signs-order-banning-transgender-athletes-from-womens-sports-in-teh-us-to-push-for-similar-ban-in-olympics-next-8694512">'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports</a>
The protesters in Philadelphia and at state capitols in California, Minnesota, Michigan, Texas, Wisconsin, Indiana, and beyond waved signs criticising President Donald Trump, billionaire Elon Musk, the leader of Trump&rsquo;s new Department of Government Efficiency; and Project 2025, a hard-right playbook for American government and society.
<h2>What is the 50501 movement?</h2>
The movement is a grassroots initiative mobilising mass protests against US President Trump's policies.&nbsp;
The organisers of the movement included moderators of the 50501 movement. They also collaborated with Political Revolution, a PAC and volunteer-based activist group that emerged following Senator Bernie Sanders's 2016 presidential campaign.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/trumps-gaza-takeover-plan-and-non-nuclear-iran-a-game-changer-or-a-political-fantasy-8695161">Trump&rsquo;s Gaza Takeover Plan and Non-Nuclear Iran: A Game-Changer or a Political Fantasy?</a>
The 50501 Movement and Political Revolution, in a joint press release, called for the removal or resignation of Trump, investigations into his appointees, including Elon Musk, repeal of &ldquo;oppressive&rdquo; executive orders, and the restoration of frameworks for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
"Our goal is to unite the American people against our common enemy: the Trump administration, anyone involved in dismantling our democracy, and anyone who wishes to divide us by our differences instead of unite us by what makes us American," the joint press release read.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rights-groups-sue-trump-against-order-banning-transgender-service-members-8673272">Rights groups sue Trump against order banning transgender service members</a>
<h2>What is happening at the protest?</h2>
The organisers of the protest described the movement as a "decentralized rapid response to the anti-democratic, destructive, and, in many cases, illegal actions being undertaken by the Trump administration and his plutocrats."
Margaret Wilmeth, a protester from Ohio, said she is appalled by democracy's changes in the last, specifically two weeks, but it started a long time ago.&nbsp;
&ldquo;So I&rsquo;m just trying to put a presence into resistance," she said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinians-in-gaza-reject-trumps-take-over-plan-we-will-remain-steadfast-in-our-homeland-8694651">Palestinians in Gaza reject Trump's takeover plan: 'We will remain steadfast in our homeland'</a>
A crowd of hundreds of people were gathered outside the state capital in Lansing, Michigan, in freezing temperatures.&nbsp;
Catie Miglietti, from the Ann Arbor area, said Musk&rsquo;s access to Treasury Department data was especially concerning.&nbsp;
&ldquo;If we don&rsquo;t stop it and get Congress to do something, it&rsquo;s an attack on democracy,&rdquo; Miglietti said.
Another protester was seen slamming Musk's DOGE. "DOGE is not legit,&rdquo; read one poster on the state Capitol steps in Jefferson City, Missouri. &ldquo;Why does Elon have your Social Security info???&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The demonstrators were protesting in 50 states across the country on Wednesday. They were seen taking part in the 50501 Movement, which refers to "50 protests in 50 states on one day."

The protesters gathered all across the US to protest President Donald Trump's administration's actions, from his immigration crackdown to the taking away of transgender rights and proposal to forcibly transfer Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. The demonstrators were protesting in 50 states across the country on Wednesday. They were seen taking part in the 50501 Movement. The 50501 Movement, as it is being called, refers to "50 protests in 50 states on one day." Also read: 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports The protesters in Philadelphia and at state capitols in California, Minnesota, Michigan, Texas, Wisconsin, Indiana, and beyond waved signs criticising President Donald Trump, billionaire Elon Musk, the leader of Trump’s new Department of Government Efficiency; and Project 2025, a hard-right playbook for American government and society. What is the 50501 movement? The movement is a grassroots initiative mobilising mass protests against US President Trump's policies. The organisers of the movement included moderators of the 50501 movement. They also collaborated with Political Revolution, a PAC and volunteer-based activist group that emerged following Senator Bernie Sanders's 2016 presidential campaign. Also read: Trump’s Gaza Takeover Plan and Non-Nuclear Iran: A Game-Changer or a Political Fantasy? The 50501 Movement and Political Revolution, in a joint press release, called for the removal or resignation of Trump, investigations into his appointees, including Elon Musk, repeal of “oppressive” executive orders, and the restoration of frameworks for diversity, equity, and inclusion. "Our goal is to unite the American people against our common enemy: the Trump administration, anyone involved in dismantling our democracy, and anyone who wishes to divide us by our differences instead of unite us by what makes us American," the joint press release read. Also read: Rights groups sue Trump against order banning transgender service members What is happening at the protest? The organisers of the protest described the movement as a "decentralized rapid response to the anti-democratic, destructive, and, in many cases, illegal actions being undertaken by the Trump administration and his plutocrats." Margaret Wilmeth, a protester from Ohio, said she is appalled by democracy's changes in the last, specifically two weeks, but it started a long time ago. “So I’m just trying to put a presence into resistance," she said. Also read: Palestinians in Gaza reject Trump's takeover plan: 'We will remain steadfast in our homeland' A crowd of hundreds of people were gathered outside the state capital in Lansing, Michigan, in freezing temperatures. Catie Miglietti, from the Ann Arbor area, said Musk’s access to Treasury Department data was especially concerning. “If we don’t stop it and get Congress to do something, it’s an attack on democracy,” Miglietti said. Another protester was seen slamming Musk's DOGE. "DOGE is not legit,” read one poster on the state Capitol steps in Jefferson City, Missouri. “Why does Elon have your Social Security info???” (With inputs from agencies)

What is 50501 movement? Protesters rally across US against Trump's policies

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released the uncut version of the CBS "60 minutes" interview with the former US vice president Kamala Harris on Wednesday (Feb 5). The FCC demanded the "unedited" version of the interview from the network after US President Donald Trump filed a lawsuit against it for editing the interview to show a specific version of Harris before the 2024 presidential election.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-interview-debacle-demand-grows-for-full-transcript-as-cbs-accused-of-deceptive-editing-767294">Kamala Harris interview debacle: Demand grows for full transcript as CBS accused of 'deceptive editing'&nbsp;</a>
The full interview showed that Harris had given a detailed answer to a question regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but only 28 seconds of the response were aired. The first 21 seconds were shown in the preview of "Face of Nation" and the remaining seven seconds were broadcast on the "60 minutes".&nbsp;
When the correspondent Bill Whitaker of the network asked what the US could do to stop the Israel-Hamas war from spinning out of control, Harris gave a 140-word answer as per the uncut version.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Well, let&rsquo;s start with October 7th. Because obviously, what we do now must be in the context of what has happened. And as I reflect on a year ago, and that 1,200 people were massacred, young people at a festival, at a music festival, 250 hostages were taken, including Americans, women were brutally raped,&rdquo; Harris began her response.&nbsp;
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kamala-harris-divorce-doug-emhoff-plastic-ban-hypocrite-kamala-plstic-bags-8650853">'Hypocrite': Kamala Harris spotted shopping with husband, carrying plastic bags after supporting ban</a>
&ldquo;And as I said then, I maintain Israel has a right to defend itself. We would. And how it does so matters. And as we fast forward to what we have seen in the ensuing weeks and months, far too many innocent Palestinians have been killed. And we know that, and I think most agree, this war has to end. And that has to be our number one imperative, and that has been our number one imperative. How can we get this war to end?&rdquo; she further added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-doug-emhoff-kamala-harris-divorce-2024-presidential-election-dead-weight-8647124">Is Kamala Harris getting divorce? Ex-US VP calls husband 'dead weight' and blames him for election loss: Report</a>
But the version that was broadcast had only a 56-word response.&nbsp;
"Twelve hundred people were massacred, and 250 hostages were taken, including Americans. Women were brutally raped. And as I said then, I maintain Israel has a right to defend itself. We would. And how it does so matters. Far too many innocent Palestinians have been killed. This war has to end,&rdquo; Harris said in the uncut version.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-kamala-harris-under-fire-for-pledge-of-allegiance-slip-up-jd-vance-caught-laughing-8590956">Watch: Kamala Harris under fire for Pledge of Allegiance slip-up; JD Vance caught laughing</a>
Donald Trump sued CBS after the interview was aired, claiming that "60 minutes" edited the interview to interfere in the presidential election.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released the uncut version of an interview of CBS "60 minutes" with the former US vice president Kamala Harris on Wednesday (Feb 5). 

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released the uncut version of the CBS "60 minutes" interview with the former US vice president Kamala Harris on Wednesday (Feb 5). The FCC demanded the "unedited" version of the interview from the network after US President Donald Trump filed a lawsuit against it for editing the interview to show a specific version of Harris before the 2024 presidential election. Also read: Kamala Harris interview debacle: Demand grows for full transcript as CBS accused of 'deceptive editing' The full interview showed that Harris had given a detailed answer to a question regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but only 28 seconds of the response were aired. The first 21 seconds were shown in the preview of "Face of Nation" and the remaining seven seconds were broadcast on the "60 minutes". When the correspondent Bill Whitaker of the network asked what the US could do to stop the Israel-Hamas war from spinning out of control, Harris gave a 140-word answer as per the uncut version. “Well, let’s start with October 7th. Because obviously, what we do now must be in the context of what has happened. And as I reflect on a year ago, and that 1,200 people were massacred, young people at a festival, at a music festival, 250 hostages were taken, including Americans, women were brutally raped,” Harris began her response. Also read: 'Hypocrite': Kamala Harris spotted shopping with husband, carrying plastic bags after supporting ban “And as I said then, I maintain Israel has a right to defend itself. We would. And how it does so matters. And as we fast forward to what we have seen in the ensuing weeks and months, far too many innocent Palestinians have been killed. And we know that, and I think most agree, this war has to end. And that has to be our number one imperative, and that has been our number one imperative. How can we get this war to end?” she further added. Also read: Is Kamala Harris getting divorce? Ex-US VP calls husband 'dead weight' and blames him for election loss: Report But the version that was broadcast had only a 56-word response. "Twelve hundred people were massacred, and 250 hostages were taken, including Americans. Women were brutally raped. And as I said then, I maintain Israel has a right to defend itself. We would. And how it does so matters. Far too many innocent Palestinians have been killed. This war has to end,” Harris said in the uncut version. Also read: Watch: Kamala Harris under fire for Pledge of Allegiance slip-up; JD Vance caught laughing Donald Trump sued CBS after the interview was aired, claiming that "60 minutes" edited the interview to interfere in the presidential election. (With inputs from agencies)

FCC releases full version of Kamala Harris' '60 minutes' interview. Here's what she said in uncut version

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Wednesday he would skip Group of 20 talks this month in South Africa, accusing the host government of an "anti-American" agenda.
Rubio's announcement comes days after US President Donald Trump lashed out at South Africa over land reforms aimed at redressing inequalities perpetrated during the apartheid era.
In a post on X that took on the tone of Trump, Rubio said he would boycott the G20 talks of foreign ministers in Johannesburg on February 20-21.
"South Africa is doing very bad things. Expropriating private property. Using G20 to promote 'solidarity, equality, &amp; sustainability,'" Rubio wrote in his post.
"In other words: DEI and climate change."&nbsp;
DEI, or diversity, equity and inclusion, has been attacked relentlessly by Trump since he returned to the White House last month.
"My job is to advance America's national interests, not waste taxpayer money or coddle anti-Americanism."
South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola on Thursday rejected Rubio's claims, saying in a statement that "there is no arbitrary dispossession of land / private property" with the new land reform law.&nbsp;
"This law is similar to the Eminent domain laws," he said, referring to longtime US laws allowing the federal government to acquire property for public use.
Lamola added that South Africa is "a sovereign and democratic country committed to human dignity, equality and rights."
"Our G20 presidency, is not confined to just climate change but also equitable treatment for nations of the Global South, ensuring equal global system for all."&nbsp;
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa had dismissed Trump's assertions earlier this week that South Africa was "confiscating" land and said he was ready to explain his government's land reform policy to his US counterpart.
On Tuesday, Ramaphosa raised concerns about "disinformation" being spread by the US president with top Trump ally Elon Musk, who was born in South Africa and the world's richest man.
Land ownership is a contentious issue in South Africa with most farmland still owned by white people three decades after the end of apartheid. The government is under pressure to implement reforms.
The absence of the United States, the world's largest economy, would mark a major blow to the G20, which is meant to represent the world's largest economies.
The meeting could have offered a first opportunity for Rubio to meet his Russian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, as Trump pushes for diplomacy on the Ukraine war.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Wednesday he would skip Group of 20 talks this month in South Africa, accusing the host government of an "anti-American" agenda.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Wednesday he would skip Group of 20 talks this month in South Africa, accusing the host government of an "anti-American" agenda. Rubio's announcement comes days after US President Donald Trump lashed out at South Africa over land reforms aimed at redressing inequalities perpetrated during the apartheid era. In a post on X that took on the tone of Trump, Rubio said he would boycott the G20 talks of foreign ministers in Johannesburg on February 20-21. "South Africa is doing very bad things. Expropriating private property. Using G20 to promote 'solidarity, equality, & sustainability,'" Rubio wrote in his post. "In other words: DEI and climate change." DEI, or diversity, equity and inclusion, has been attacked relentlessly by Trump since he returned to the White House last month. "My job is to advance America's national interests, not waste taxpayer money or coddle anti-Americanism." South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola on Thursday rejected Rubio's claims, saying in a statement that "there is no arbitrary dispossession of land / private property" with the new land reform law. "This law is similar to the Eminent domain laws," he said, referring to longtime US laws allowing the federal government to acquire property for public use. Lamola added that South Africa is "a sovereign and democratic country committed to human dignity, equality and rights." "Our G20 presidency, is not confined to just climate change but also equitable treatment for nations of the Global South, ensuring equal global system for all." South African President Cyril Ramaphosa had dismissed Trump's assertions earlier this week that South Africa was "confiscating" land and said he was ready to explain his government's land reform policy to his US counterpart. On Tuesday, Ramaphosa raised concerns about "disinformation" being spread by the US president with top Trump ally Elon Musk, who was born in South Africa and the world's richest man. Land ownership is a contentious issue in South Africa with most farmland still owned by white people three decades after the end of apartheid. The government is under pressure to implement reforms. The absence of the United States, the world's largest economy, would mark a major blow to the G20, which is meant to represent the world's largest economies. The meeting could have offered a first opportunity for Rubio to meet his Russian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, as Trump pushes for diplomacy on the Ukraine war. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio boycotts G20 talks, accuses South Africa of anti-American agenda

Lara Trump, US President Donald Trump's daughter-in-law will soon be hosting a show on Fox News during prime time. The show has been titled 'My View with Lara Trump,' and will air on Saturdays at 9 pm ET, announced FOX News Media Chief Executive Officer Suzanne Scott on Wednesday (Jan 5).
"A gifted communicator who knows how to connect to the viewers, successful entrepreneur and working mother, Lara&rsquo;s innate understanding of the American public and today&rsquo;s political landscape will be a compelling addition to our weekend line up," said Scott while announcing the show.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinians-in-gaza-reject-trumps-take-over-plan-we-will-remain-steadfast-in-our-homeland-8694651">Palestinians in Gaza reject Trump's takeover plan: 'We will remain steadfast in our homeland'</a>
<h2>Who is Lara Trump?</h2>
Lara Trump is Donald Trump's daughter-in-law and is married to his second son, Eric Trump. Her joining a TV network as host while her father-in-law is in office is unprecedented, as no close relative of a sitting US president has ever hosted a major news show. &nbsp;
The 42-year-old is no stranger to broadcasting. She has previously worked with Fox as a contributor when, in 2021, she worked as a producer for Inside Edition. She has hosted an online series, 'The Right View', since 2020.&nbsp;
Her return to Fox News is expected to feature big-picture political analysis and interviews with prominent figures. As per Fox News, &nbsp;"'My View with Lara Trump' will focus on the return of common sense to all corners of American life as the country ushers in a new era of practicality."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-generous-move-donald-trump-administartion-backtracks-from-us-presidents-gaza-take-over-remark-8694608">Not 'hostile': Trump administration backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark</a>
<h2>The Trump-Fox relationship</h2>
As per the New York Times, Fox News has maintained a close relationship with Donald Trump and his administration. Several Fox personalities have taken positions in Trump's cabinet, including Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defence and Sean Duffy as Transportation Secretary.&nbsp;&nbsp;
The network has also been a platform for the Trump family, with the former president and his children frequently appearing as guests. However, Lara Trump's hiring as a host, while her father-in-law remains a prominent political figure, represents a new chapter in the Trump-Fox saga.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-signs-order-banning-transgender-athletes-from-womens-sports-in-teh-us-to-push-for-similar-ban-in-olympics-next-8694512">'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports</a>
<h2>Objectivity under threat?</h2>
This unprecedented hiring of a close family member of a prominent political leader can potentially undermine journalistic objectivity. Reports have drawn comparisons to Jenna Bush Hager (daughter of former US president George Bush) and Chelsea Clinton (daughter of former US president Bill Clinton), who both joined TV, but only after their respective fathers' presidencies.
(With inputs from agencies)

Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of Donald Trump, is set to host a new prime-time show on Fox News, marking a significant addition to the network's weekend lineup.

Lara Trump, US President Donald Trump's daughter-in-law will soon be hosting a show on Fox News during prime time. The show has been titled 'My View with Lara Trump,' and will air on Saturdays at 9 pm ET, announced FOX News Media Chief Executive Officer Suzanne Scott on Wednesday (Jan 5). "A gifted communicator who knows how to connect to the viewers, successful entrepreneur and working mother, Lara’s innate understanding of the American public and today’s political landscape will be a compelling addition to our weekend line up," said Scott while announcing the show. Also read | Palestinians in Gaza reject Trump's takeover plan: 'We will remain steadfast in our homeland' Who is Lara Trump? Lara Trump is Donald Trump's daughter-in-law and is married to his second son, Eric Trump. Her joining a TV network as host while her father-in-law is in office is unprecedented, as no close relative of a sitting US president has ever hosted a major news show. The 42-year-old is no stranger to broadcasting. She has previously worked with Fox as a contributor when, in 2021, she worked as a producer for Inside Edition. She has hosted an online series, 'The Right View', since 2020. Her return to Fox News is expected to feature big-picture political analysis and interviews with prominent figures. As per Fox News, "'My View with Lara Trump' will focus on the return of common sense to all corners of American life as the country ushers in a new era of practicality." Also read | Not 'hostile': Trump administration backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark The Trump-Fox relationship As per the New York Times, Fox News has maintained a close relationship with Donald Trump and his administration. Several Fox personalities have taken positions in Trump's cabinet, including Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defence and Sean Duffy as Transportation Secretary. The network has also been a platform for the Trump family, with the former president and his children frequently appearing as guests. However, Lara Trump's hiring as a host, while her father-in-law remains a prominent political figure, represents a new chapter in the Trump-Fox saga. Also read | 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports Objectivity under threat? This unprecedented hiring of a close family member of a prominent political leader can potentially undermine journalistic objectivity. Reports have drawn comparisons to Jenna Bush Hager (daughter of former US president George Bush) and Chelsea Clinton (daughter of former US president Bill Clinton), who both joined TV, but only after their respective fathers' presidencies. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump to host prime time TV news show on THIS major US TV network

A day after US President Donald Trump announced his plan to take over Gaza, his administration on Wednesday (Feb 5) seemed to backtrack from his proposal. Amid global criticism of the American president's plan, Trump's Secretary of State Marco Rubio tried to placate the situation, insisting any transfer would be temporary. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt assured US citizens that their money would not fund the reconstruction of Gaza which has been battered by a war for 15 months.
On Tuesday (Feb 4) Trump declared that "The US will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it, too. We'll own it," to audible gasps during a White House press conference.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-signs-order-banning-transgender-athletes-from-womens-sports-in-teh-us-to-push-for-similar-ban-in-olympics-next-8694512">'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports</a>
<h2>A 'generous move'</h2>
Facing a wave of criticism from world leaders, Palestinians, and Arab governments, among others, Trump's Secretary of State Rubio said that the idea was not meant to be "hostile" and was a "generous move &mdash; the offer to rebuild and to be in charge of the rebuilding". &nbsp;
Trump insists that "everybody loves" the plan, but White House Press Secretary Leavitt had to elaborate on Rubio's comment and reassure Americans that Washington, or rather their tax money, would not fund Gaza's reconstruction.
US involvement "does not mean boots on the ground" or that "American taxpayers will be funding this effort", said Leavitt.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-follows-donald-trumps-lead-withdraws-from-world-health-organization-covid-19-covid-pandemic-us-covid-pandemic-handling-covid-lockdowns-8694529">Argentina follows Trump's lead, withdraws from World Health Organization</a>
<h2>'Ethnic cleansing'?</h2>
Trump's proposal was labelled an attempt at "ethnic cleansing" by the United Nations.
In a speech to a UN committee that deals with the rights of Palestinians, Secretary-General Ant&oacute;nio Guterres said, "At its essence, the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people is about the right of Palestinians to simply live as human beings in their own land".
The UN chief's spokesperson St&eacute;phane Dujarric, previewing Guterres's speech, told the press: "Any forced displacement of people is tantamount to ethnic cleansing."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-key-barriers-to-trumps-gaza-control-plan-8694375">Five key barriers to Trump&rsquo;s Gaza control plan</a>
Meanwhile, France President Emanuel Macron and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi also said that any forced displacement of the Palestinians would be unacceptable. &nbsp; "It would be a serious violation of international law, an obstacle to the two-state solution and a major destabilising force for Egypt and Jordan," they said, according to a statement from the French president's office.&nbsp;
Watch | PM Netanyahu, Israelis welcome Trump's plan to empty out Gaza
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0602_WION_TRUMP_GAZA_TAKEOVER_7AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0602_WION_TRUMP_GAZA_TAKEOVER_7AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=233&amp;tags=donald trump, gaza, netanyahu" title="PM Netanyahu, Israelis welcome Trump's plan to empty out Gaza" id="PL_iframe_block-m6sro34v-ro7tduui-dx346fxv"></iframe>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Discover how Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt attempt to calm tensions by clarifying Donald Trump's proposed Gaza take over.

A day after US President Donald Trump announced his plan to take over Gaza, his administration on Wednesday (Feb 5) seemed to backtrack from his proposal. Amid global criticism of the American president's plan, Trump's Secretary of State Marco Rubio tried to placate the situation, insisting any transfer would be temporary. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt assured US citizens that their money would not fund the reconstruction of Gaza which has been battered by a war for 15 months. On Tuesday (Feb 4) Trump declared that "The US will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it, too. We'll own it," to audible gasps during a White House press conference. Also read | 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports A 'generous move' Facing a wave of criticism from world leaders, Palestinians, and Arab governments, among others, Trump's Secretary of State Rubio said that the idea was not meant to be "hostile" and was a "generous move — the offer to rebuild and to be in charge of the rebuilding". Trump insists that "everybody loves" the plan, but White House Press Secretary Leavitt had to elaborate on Rubio's comment and reassure Americans that Washington, or rather their tax money, would not fund Gaza's reconstruction. US involvement "does not mean boots on the ground" or that "American taxpayers will be funding this effort", said Leavitt. Also read | Argentina follows Trump's lead, withdraws from World Health Organization 'Ethnic cleansing'? Trump's proposal was labelled an attempt at "ethnic cleansing" by the United Nations. In a speech to a UN committee that deals with the rights of Palestinians, Secretary-General António Guterres said, "At its essence, the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people is about the right of Palestinians to simply live as human beings in their own land". The UN chief's spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, previewing Guterres's speech, told the press: "Any forced displacement of people is tantamount to ethnic cleansing." Also read | Five key barriers to Trump’s Gaza control plan Meanwhile, France President Emanuel Macron and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi also said that any forced displacement of the Palestinians would be unacceptable. "It would be a serious violation of international law, an obstacle to the two-state solution and a major destabilising force for Egypt and Jordan," they said, according to a statement from the French president's office. Watch | PM Netanyahu, Israelis welcome Trump's plan to empty out Gaza (With inputs from agencies)

Not 'hostile': Trump administration backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark

'Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery,' and Argentina's decision comes just two weeks after Trump &mdash; whom Milei openly admires &mdash; pulled America out of the WHO. The Republican US president had also cited grievances to the ones Milei voiced. Milei seems to be trying his damnedest to flatter US President Donald Trump. On Wednesday (Feb 5), the ultraconservative Argentinian President announced that following in America's footsteps, his nation is also withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO).
<h2>A mirror copy?</h2>
Echoing Donald Trump's criticism of the UN agency's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, Melei lamented about the Covid lockdowns, which he labelled "one of the most bizarre crimes against humanity".&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-may-consider-rejoining-world-health-organization-after-signing-withdrawal-order-8654504">Donald Trump may consider rejoining World Health Organization after signing withdrawal order</a>
In his statement, President Milei lambasted the WHO as the "executing arm of what was the greatest experiment in social control in history.".&nbsp;
Milei's spokesman, Manuel Adorni, argued that the decision based on "deep differences regarding health management, especially during the pandemic," would grant Argentina greater autonomy in crafting health policies tailored to its local context. He emphasised that Argentina would not "allow an international body to interfere in our sovereignty."&nbsp;
Adorni also argued that the move would lead to "greater availability of resources," and enable "greater flexibility to implement policies adapted to the context" locally.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-executive-order-to-pull-us-out-of-world-health-organization-who-8639655">Trump signs executive order to pull US out of World Health Organization</a>
WHO data shows that across 2022 and 2023 Argentina contributed approximately $8.75 million in membership fees to the WHO but receives no funding in return. For 2024-24, the nation was slated to contribute $8.25 million. &nbsp;
Accusing the UN agency of "a lack of independence," Adorni stressed that since Argentina "does not receive funding from the WHO, so this measure does not represent a loss of funds for the country."
The WHO has not yet commented on Argentina&rsquo;s departure.
<h2>Criticism follows Argentina's decision</h2>
Critics, as per AFP, warn the withdrawal could isolate Argentina from crucial global health initiatives and leave the country vulnerable to future pandemics. Federico Merke, an international relations expert, highlighted the risk of losing access to vital information-sharing and cooperation mechanisms in health emergencies. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/world-health-organization-issues-warning-says-ai-in-healthcare-poses-risks-593037">World Health Organization issues warning, says AI in healthcare poses risks, could be misused</a>
<h2>Trump's influence?</h2>
Argentina's decision comes just two weeks after Trump &mdash; whom Milei openly admires &mdash; pulled America out of the WHO. The Republican US president had also cited grievances to the ones Milei voiced. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Argentina follows the footsteps of Donald Trump as President Milei announces the country's withdrawal from the World Health Organization citing autonomy in health policies.

'Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery,' and Argentina's decision comes just two weeks after Trump — whom Milei openly admires — pulled America out of the WHO. The Republican US president had also cited grievances to the ones Milei voiced. Milei seems to be trying his damnedest to flatter US President Donald Trump. On Wednesday (Feb 5), the ultraconservative Argentinian President announced that following in America's footsteps, his nation is also withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO). A mirror copy? Echoing Donald Trump's criticism of the UN agency's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, Melei lamented about the Covid lockdowns, which he labelled "one of the most bizarre crimes against humanity". Also read | Donald Trump may consider rejoining World Health Organization after signing withdrawal order In his statement, President Milei lambasted the WHO as the "executing arm of what was the greatest experiment in social control in history.". Milei's spokesman, Manuel Adorni, argued that the decision based on "deep differences regarding health management, especially during the pandemic," would grant Argentina greater autonomy in crafting health policies tailored to its local context. He emphasised that Argentina would not "allow an international body to interfere in our sovereignty." Adorni also argued that the move would lead to "greater availability of resources," and enable "greater flexibility to implement policies adapted to the context" locally. Also read | Trump signs executive order to pull US out of World Health Organization WHO data shows that across 2022 and 2023 Argentina contributed approximately $8.75 million in membership fees to the WHO but receives no funding in return. For 2024-24, the nation was slated to contribute $8.25 million. Accusing the UN agency of "a lack of independence," Adorni stressed that since Argentina "does not receive funding from the WHO, so this measure does not represent a loss of funds for the country." The WHO has not yet commented on Argentina’s departure. Criticism follows Argentina's decision Critics, as per AFP, warn the withdrawal could isolate Argentina from crucial global health initiatives and leave the country vulnerable to future pandemics. Federico Merke, an international relations expert, highlighted the risk of losing access to vital information-sharing and cooperation mechanisms in health emergencies. Also read | World Health Organization issues warning, says AI in healthcare poses risks, could be misused Trump's influence? Argentina's decision comes just two weeks after Trump — whom Milei openly admires — pulled America out of the WHO. The Republican US president had also cited grievances to the ones Milei voiced. (With inputs from agencies)

Argentina follows Trump's lead, withdraws from World Health Organization

US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order today banning transgender athletes from participating in women's sports, fulfilling a promise that was at the centre of his election campaign 2024.
According to a White House document on the upcoming executive order obtained by ABC News, dubbed &ldquo;No Men in Women&rsquo;s Sports&rdquo;, the order will change how the administration interprets Title IX, a civil rights law that addresses sex discrimination at schools that receive federal funding, including in athletics.
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<h2 dir="ltr">What have people to say?</h2>
Deputy assistant to the president and senior policy strategist May Mailman told ABC News, "We want to take actions to affirmatively protect women's sports." She said that the executive order is designed to further overturn Biden-era policies that required schools and athletic organisations to treat gender identity and sex as equivalent.
She noted that a court ruling determined such requirements were not necessary and that the president's executive order would explicitly ban them.
Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson said in a statement on Tuesday that Trump's executive order will lead to increased discrimination and harassment.
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"This order could expose young people to harassment and discrimination, emboldening people to question the gender of kids who don't fit a narrow view of how they're supposed to dress or look," Robinson said. "Participating in sports is about learning the values of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. And for so many students, sports are about finding somewhere to belong. We should want that for all kids&mdash;not partisan policies that make life harder for them."
<h2 dir="ltr">What else changes will the order make?</h2>
The executive order is set to make significant changes to various policies. The Secretary of State will be pushing for changes within the International Olympic Committee to maintain single-sex competitions.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trumps-patronising-reply-to-afghan-reporters-accent-netizens-raise-eyebrows-8693167">Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;patronising&rsquo; reply to Afghan reporter&rsquo;s accent raises netizens&rsquo; eyebrows</a>
Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security will review visa policies to prevent transgender women from identifying as female, which would allow them to compete in women's sports.&nbsp;
Private sporting bodies will also be required to attend an in-person White House meeting, where they will hear accounts from female athletes firsthand.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: President Trump is set to sign an executive order today, enforcing a ban on transgender athletes in women's sports, a key promise from his campaign agenda.

US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order today banning transgender athletes from participating in women's sports, fulfilling a promise that was at the centre of his election campaign 2024. According to a White House document on the upcoming executive order obtained by ABC News, dubbed “No Men in Women’s Sports”, the order will change how the administration interprets Title IX, a civil rights law that addresses sex discrimination at schools that receive federal funding, including in athletics. Also read | Cocaine ‘not worse than whisky’: Colombian president challenges US ties What have people to say? Deputy assistant to the president and senior policy strategist May Mailman told ABC News, "We want to take actions to affirmatively protect women's sports." She said that the executive order is designed to further overturn Biden-era policies that required schools and athletic organisations to treat gender identity and sex as equivalent. She noted that a court ruling determined such requirements were not necessary and that the president's executive order would explicitly ban them. Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson said in a statement on Tuesday that Trump's executive order will lead to increased discrimination and harassment. Also read | Everything to know about shooter behind Swedish’s deadliest mass shooting "This order could expose young people to harassment and discrimination, emboldening people to question the gender of kids who don't fit a narrow view of how they're supposed to dress or look," Robinson said. "Participating in sports is about learning the values of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. And for so many students, sports are about finding somewhere to belong. We should want that for all kids—not partisan policies that make life harder for them." What else changes will the order make? The executive order is set to make significant changes to various policies. The Secretary of State will be pushing for changes within the International Olympic Committee to maintain single-sex competitions. Also read | Trump’s ‘patronising’ reply to Afghan reporter’s accent raises netizens’ eyebrows Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security will review visa policies to prevent transgender women from identifying as female, which would allow them to compete in women's sports. Private sporting bodies will also be required to attend an in-person White House meeting, where they will hear accounts from female athletes firsthand. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports

US President Donald Trump has said that he wants his nominated education secretary Linda McMahon to &ldquo;put herself out of a job.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I told Linda &mdash; &lsquo;Linda, I hope you do a great job and put yourself out of a job,'&rdquo; Trump told reporters in his Oval Office on Tuesday (Feb 4). &ldquo;I want her to put herself out of a job [in the] Education Department.&rdquo;
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This comes after speculations that Trump is planning to issue an executive order to dismantle the government agency as part of his bigger goal of scaling down federal spending and departments.
According to a USA Today report, a White House official confirmed that Trump is reevaluating the future of the Education Department. McMahon, who was the administrator of the Small Business Administration during Trump&rsquo;s first term, has expressed similar views for abolishing the department.
<h2>Can Trump dismantle education department with executive order?</h2>
Legal critics believe that Trump will require Congress to pass new legislation to end the department.&nbsp;
When asked whether he could abolish the agency by an executive order, the president said, &ldquo;There are some people that say I could.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/that-was-a-great-operation-trump-says-as-netanyahu-gifts-us-president-a-golden-pager-8693078">'That was a great operation': Trump says as Netanyahu gifts US president a golden pager</a>
&ldquo;I think I&rsquo;d work with Congress,&rdquo; Trump added, as quoted by The New York Post. &ldquo;We&rsquo;d have to work with the teachers union because the teachers union is the only one that&rsquo;s opposed to it.&rdquo;
&ldquo;We have to tell the teachers union we&rsquo;re rated last in the world in education of the top 40,&rdquo; he said, not clearing about which rating system he was speaking of.
The Education Department was created in 1979 under the late former President Jimmy Carter. Last year, the department had $241.66 billion in budgetary resources, according to USASpending.gov data.
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Trump argued that returning the power from the department back to the states is better suited for education systems.
&ldquo;I think that if you moved our schools into some of these states that are really well-run states, they would be as good as Denmark and Norway and Sweden,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;But you&rsquo;d have the laggards, the same laggards that are laggards with everything else, including crime.&rdquo;
Trump, along with his biggest supporter billionaire Elon Musk, who is leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have started working on dismantling several government agencies like the US Agency for International Development (USAID) to narrow down the federal department and its spending.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The Education Department was created in 1979 under late former President Jimmy Carter. Last year, the department had $241.66 billion in budgetary resources, according to USASpending.gov data.

US President Donald Trump has said that he wants his nominated education secretary Linda McMahon to “put herself out of a job.” “I told Linda — ‘Linda, I hope you do a great job and put yourself out of a job,'” Trump told reporters in his Oval Office on Tuesday (Feb 4). “I want her to put herself out of a job [in the] Education Department.” Also read | Trump’s Justice Department reportedly has records of 5,000 Jan 6 investigators: FBI 'purge' incoming? This comes after speculations that Trump is planning to issue an executive order to dismantle the government agency as part of his bigger goal of scaling down federal spending and departments. According to a USA Today report, a White House official confirmed that Trump is reevaluating the future of the Education Department. McMahon, who was the administrator of the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first term, has expressed similar views for abolishing the department. Can Trump dismantle education department with executive order? Legal critics believe that Trump will require Congress to pass new legislation to end the department. When asked whether he could abolish the agency by an executive order, the president said, “There are some people that say I could.” Also read | 'That was a great operation': Trump says as Netanyahu gifts US president a golden pager “I think I’d work with Congress,” Trump added, as quoted by The New York Post. “We’d have to work with the teachers union because the teachers union is the only one that’s opposed to it.” “We have to tell the teachers union we’re rated last in the world in education of the top 40,” he said, not clearing about which rating system he was speaking of. The Education Department was created in 1979 under the late former President Jimmy Carter. Last year, the department had $241.66 billion in budgetary resources, according to USASpending.gov data. Also read | Trump’s ‘patronising’ reply to Afghan reporter’s accent raises netizens’ eyebrows Trump argued that returning the power from the department back to the states is better suited for education systems. “I think that if you moved our schools into some of these states that are really well-run states, they would be as good as Denmark and Norway and Sweden,” he said. “But you’d have the laggards, the same laggards that are laggards with everything else, including crime.” Trump, along with his biggest supporter billionaire Elon Musk, who is leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have started working on dismantling several government agencies like the US Agency for International Development (USAID) to narrow down the federal department and its spending. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump hopes Linda McMahon 'puts herself out of job' by shutting down education department

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday reportedly gifted US President Donald Trump a golden pager and a regular one, during his meeting at the White House.&nbsp;
The gift was a reference to the deadly operation that hit the Hezbollah terror group hard.&nbsp;
"That was a great operation,&rdquo; Trump responded, according to a Channel 12 report.&nbsp;
Israel PM&rsquo;s office has confirmed that Netanyahu gifted Trump a golden pager during the White House meeting. Pictures of the pager are being circulated widely on the internet. Take a look:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6u7p6p6-l3nrrlzf-pevfj7u4">
a golden pager gifted to president trump from israel pm netanyahu during their washington meeting <a href="https://t.co/gXnRGBGDYm">pic.twitter.com/gXnRGBGDYm</a>
&mdash; ian bremmer (@ianbremmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianbremmer/status/1887593011443298584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-vows-to-take-over-gaza-says-palestinians-can-live-in-harmony-elsewhere-8691504" rel="dofollow">'We will own it': Donald Trump vows to 'take over' Gaza in press conference with Netanyahu</a>
In a gesture of return gift, Trump gave Netanyahu a photo of the two of them from the visit, with the dedication &ldquo;To Bibi, a great leader.&rdquo;
In September last year, thousands of pagers used by Hezbollah operatives in Lebanon exploded and killed and injured dozens of them.&nbsp;
A day after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=pager+" rel="dofollow">pager attack</a>, hundreds of walkie-talkies exploded, which killed many people.&nbsp;
Iran and Hezbollah accused Israel of orchestrating the blasts, setting off explosions in pagers that Hezbollah members used as a discreet communication method to avoid Israeli surveillance.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-trump-netanyahu-meet-white-house-official-calls-gaza-a-demolition-site-8691243" rel="dofollow">Ahead of Trump-Netanyahu meet, White House official calls Gaza a &lsquo;demolition site&rsquo;</a>
Two months later, Israel's Netanyahu officially took responsibility for the attack.
Combined, these operations resulted in approximately 30 deaths, including two children, and left around 3,000 people injured. The strikes were conducted shortly after Israel declared its intent to expand its military efforts against Hezbollah along the Lebanon border.
Netanyahu and Trump met in the White House on Tuesday and held a joint press briefing.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-skips-gaza-ceasefire-talks-deadline-with-hamas-to-meet-trump-8689866" rel="dofollow">Netanyahu skips Gaza ceasefire talks deadline with Hamas to meet Trump</a>
During the meeting, Trump vowed that the United States would "take over" and "own" the Gaza Strip and deploy American troops in the region if necessary.&nbsp;
Adding that Palestinians could live their lives in &ldquo;peace and harmony&rdquo; somewhere else, Trump said, "The US will take over the Gaza Strip and we will do a job with it, too. We&rsquo;ll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site."&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In a gesture of return gift, US President Donald Trump gave Netanyahu a photo of the two of them from the visit, with the dedication “To Bibi, a great leader.”

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday reportedly gifted US President Donald Trump a golden pager and a regular one, during his meeting at the White House. The gift was a reference to the deadly operation that hit the Hezbollah terror group hard. "That was a great operation,” Trump responded, according to a Channel 12 report. Israel PM’s office has confirmed that Netanyahu gifted Trump a golden pager during the White House meeting. Pictures of the pager are being circulated widely on the internet. Take a look: a golden pager gifted to president trump from israel pm netanyahu during their washington meeting pic.twitter.com/gXnRGBGDYm — ian bremmer (@ianbremmer) February 6, 2025 Also read: 'We will own it': Donald Trump vows to 'take over' Gaza in press conference with Netanyahu In a gesture of return gift, Trump gave Netanyahu a photo of the two of them from the visit, with the dedication “To Bibi, a great leader.” In September last year, thousands of pagers used by Hezbollah operatives in Lebanon exploded and killed and injured dozens of them. A day after the pager attack, hundreds of walkie-talkies exploded, which killed many people. Iran and Hezbollah accused Israel of orchestrating the blasts, setting off explosions in pagers that Hezbollah members used as a discreet communication method to avoid Israeli surveillance. Also read: Ahead of Trump-Netanyahu meet, White House official calls Gaza a ‘demolition site’ Two months later, Israel's Netanyahu officially took responsibility for the attack. Combined, these operations resulted in approximately 30 deaths, including two children, and left around 3,000 people injured. The strikes were conducted shortly after Israel declared its intent to expand its military efforts against Hezbollah along the Lebanon border. Netanyahu and Trump met in the White House on Tuesday and held a joint press briefing. Also read: Netanyahu skips Gaza ceasefire talks deadline with Hamas to meet Trump During the meeting, Trump vowed that the United States would "take over" and "own" the Gaza Strip and deploy American troops in the region if necessary. Adding that Palestinians could live their lives in “peace and harmony” somewhere else, Trump said, "The US will take over the Gaza Strip and we will do a job with it, too. We’ll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site." (With inputs from agencies)

‘That was a great operation’: Trump says as Netanyahu gifts golden pager to US president

Ahead of President Donald Trump&rsquo;s meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a senior White House official has called Gaza a &lsquo;demolition site&rsquo;, predicting it will take more than a decade to rebuild the land.&nbsp;
The official noted that Trump&rsquo;s priority is ensuring the return of Hamas-held hostages and removing the terrorist group from power. &ldquo;Trump believes that Gaza is a demolition site, he thinks it is inhumane to force people to live in an area that is not fit for habitation,&rdquo; the official was quoted before the two leaders are scheduled to meet.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-to-meet-trump-as-israel-hamas-eye-gaza-truce-talks-8690020" rel="dofollow">Netanyahu to meet Trump as Israel, Hamas await talks for Gaza truce phase 2</a>
Trump&rsquo;s administration has proposed relocating Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan, but officials emphasised that the focus remains on humanitarian efforts and regional stability. &ldquo;President Trump sees Gaza as uninhabitable, with unexploded ordnance and rubble. He believes rebuilding will take 10 to 15 years and considers it inhumane to force people to stay there in current conditions,&rdquo; an official was quoted by the Washington Examiner.&nbsp;
Trump&rsquo;s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, became the first US official in 15 years to visit Gaza. Witkoff described the enclave&rsquo;s reconstruction as a long-term project requiring extensive infrastructure rebuilding.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-on-historic-us-visit-to-discuss-gaza-ceasefire-with-trump-hamas-signals-readiness-for-next-phase-8687643" rel="dofollow">Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire with President Trump during &lsquo;historic&rsquo; US visit</a>
<h2>'Creative solutions'</h2>
Another official said that the US has urged Arab partners to collaborate on &lsquo;creative solutions&rsquo; for displaced Palestinians, highlighting the importance of a collective effort rather than a unilateral US approach.&nbsp;
The Trump administration has been cautious in addressing whether Netanyahu will be pressured to move to the second phase of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">ceasefire </a>deal. The first phase, expected to end by February 18, includes the release of 33 Israeli hostages and more Palestinian prisoners, Israel's withdrawal from most of Gaza, and increased humanitarian aid.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-confirms-receiving-list-of-three-gaza-hostages-to-be-freed-on-jan-30-8669104" rel="dofollow">Eight Gaza hostages, 3 Israelis and 5 Thais, to be released tomorrow, says Netanyahu's office</a>
The second phase involves releasing younger Israeli male hostages and discussions on ending the war, while the third phase entails full Israeli withdrawal and beginning Gaza&rsquo;s reconstruction.&nbsp;
A senior official criticized past US policies toward Israel, stating they had prolonged the conflict unnecessarily. &ldquo;That will be corrected immediately, as seen by Netanyahu being the first head of state to visit the White House and Trump&rsquo;s first call being to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman,&rdquo; the official said.&nbsp;
Trump and Netanyahu are scheduled for a bilateral meeting, a press conference, and a dinner to discuss the ceasefire and broader regional stability.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The official noted that US President Trump’s priority is ensuring the return of Hamas-held hostages and removing the terrorist group from power. 

Ahead of President Donald Trump’s meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a senior White House official has called Gaza a ‘demolition site’, predicting it will take more than a decade to rebuild the land. The official noted that Trump’s priority is ensuring the return of Hamas-held hostages and removing the terrorist group from power. “Trump believes that Gaza is a demolition site, he thinks it is inhumane to force people to live in an area that is not fit for habitation,” the official was quoted before the two leaders are scheduled to meet. Also read: Netanyahu to meet Trump as Israel, Hamas await talks for Gaza truce phase 2 Trump’s administration has proposed relocating Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan, but officials emphasised that the focus remains on humanitarian efforts and regional stability. “President Trump sees Gaza as uninhabitable, with unexploded ordnance and rubble. He believes rebuilding will take 10 to 15 years and considers it inhumane to force people to stay there in current conditions,” an official was quoted by the Washington Examiner. Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, became the first US official in 15 years to visit Gaza. Witkoff described the enclave’s reconstruction as a long-term project requiring extensive infrastructure rebuilding. Also read: Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire with President Trump during ‘historic’ US visit 'Creative solutions' Another official said that the US has urged Arab partners to collaborate on ‘creative solutions’ for displaced Palestinians, highlighting the importance of a collective effort rather than a unilateral US approach. The Trump administration has been cautious in addressing whether Netanyahu will be pressured to move to the second phase of the ceasefire deal. The first phase, expected to end by February 18, includes the release of 33 Israeli hostages and more Palestinian prisoners, Israel's withdrawal from most of Gaza, and increased humanitarian aid. Also read: Eight Gaza hostages, 3 Israelis and 5 Thais, to be released tomorrow, says Netanyahu's office The second phase involves releasing younger Israeli male hostages and discussions on ending the war, while the third phase entails full Israeli withdrawal and beginning Gaza’s reconstruction. A senior official criticized past US policies toward Israel, stating they had prolonged the conflict unnecessarily. “That will be corrected immediately, as seen by Netanyahu being the first head of state to visit the White House and Trump’s first call being to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman,” the official said. Trump and Netanyahu are scheduled for a bilateral meeting, a press conference, and a dinner to discuss the ceasefire and broader regional stability. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of Trump-Netanyahu meet, White House official calls Gaza a ‘demolition site’

The city of Maryland and three other groups have sued US President Donald Trump and his administration to block Trump's executive orders, which are collectively the "Anti-DEIA Executive Orders" and are seeking to end diversity programmes in America.
The diverse coalition of groups includes the nation's leading academics and higher education officials, restaurant workers, and the City of Baltimore.&nbsp;
The challenge was filed in federal court in Maryland and was brought by the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, Restaurant Opportunities Centers United, and the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, Maryland, represented by Democracy Forward and Asian Americans Advancing Justice.&nbsp;
Recently, Trump has attempted to remove any US government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion practices within the federal government.&nbsp;
The Trump administration issued executive orders two days after he took control of the White House, threatening economic sanctions and dismissals.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fires-first-female-coast-guard-chief-admiral-linda-lee-fagan-elon-musk-reacts-8642254" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Racist, sexist diversity nonsense&rsquo;: Trump fires first female Coast Guard chief, Admiral Linda Lee Fagan</a>
The lawsuit alleges that the orders exceeded the president's authority under the US Constitution and asks the court for preliminary and permanent injunctions to block the orders, in addition to finding them unlawful and unconstitutional.
"In the United States, there is no king," reads the lawsuit from the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, the Restaurant Opportunities Centres United and the mayor and city council of Baltimore.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-closes-its-diversity-office-ahead-of-donald-trumps-return-to-white-house-us-president-elect-alleges-corruption-8629574" rel="dofollow">FBI closes its diversity office ahead of Trump's return to White House, US president-elect alleges 'corruption'</a>
The suit named as defendants Trump, nine government departments and their corresponding cabinet officers, the National Science Foundation, and the Office of Management and Budget.
Trump has been making efforts to end programmes that help women, ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ people obtain government jobs and contracts, saying such practices unfairly punish more qualified applicants.&nbsp;
The civil rights and pro-equality groups argued that the programmes were necessary to remove discrimination in a country where women and African Americans did not achieve legal equality until the 20th century and continued to remain behind their white male counterparts in pay and opportunity.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-fact-checking-meta-dismantles-diversity-programmes-is-mark-zuckerberg-trying-to-appease-president-elect-donald-trump-8609188" rel="dofollow">Meta dismantles diversity programmes after ending fact-checks. Is Zuckerberg trying to appease Trump?</a>
<h2>'Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of purse'</h2>
"In his crusade to erase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility from our country, President Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of the purse, nor can he silence those who disagree with him by threatening them with the loss of federal funds and other enforcement action," the lawsuit read.&nbsp;
Trump's executive order against the diversity policies sought the widespread dismissal of federal government employees with the directive to "terminate, to the maximum extent allowed by law, all DEI, DEIA, and 'environmental justice' offices and positions."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-judge-orders-boeing-and-doj-to-clarify-diversity-policy-before-ruling-on-plea-767944" rel="dofollow">US judge orders Boeing and DOJ to clarify diversity policy before ruling on plea</a>
The order targeted publicly traded corporations, large non-profit corporations, state and local bar and medical associations, foundations, and university endowments, seeking to deter them from engaging in diversity programmes.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Recently, Trump has attempted to remove any US government support for diversity, equity and inclusion practices within the federal government. 

The city of Maryland and three other groups have sued US President Donald Trump and his administration to block Trump's executive orders, which are collectively the "Anti-DEIA Executive Orders" and are seeking to end diversity programmes in America. The diverse coalition of groups includes the nation's leading academics and higher education officials, restaurant workers, and the City of Baltimore. The challenge was filed in federal court in Maryland and was brought by the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, Restaurant Opportunities Centers United, and the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, Maryland, represented by Democracy Forward and Asian Americans Advancing Justice. Recently, Trump has attempted to remove any US government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion practices within the federal government. The Trump administration issued executive orders two days after he took control of the White House, threatening economic sanctions and dismissals. Also read: ‘Racist, sexist diversity nonsense’: Trump fires first female Coast Guard chief, Admiral Linda Lee Fagan The lawsuit alleges that the orders exceeded the president's authority under the US Constitution and asks the court for preliminary and permanent injunctions to block the orders, in addition to finding them unlawful and unconstitutional. "In the United States, there is no king," reads the lawsuit from the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, the Restaurant Opportunities Centres United and the mayor and city council of Baltimore. Also read: FBI closes its diversity office ahead of Trump's return to White House, US president-elect alleges 'corruption' The suit named as defendants Trump, nine government departments and their corresponding cabinet officers, the National Science Foundation, and the Office of Management and Budget. Trump has been making efforts to end programmes that help women, ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ people obtain government jobs and contracts, saying such practices unfairly punish more qualified applicants. The civil rights and pro-equality groups argued that the programmes were necessary to remove discrimination in a country where women and African Americans did not achieve legal equality until the 20th century and continued to remain behind their white male counterparts in pay and opportunity. Also read: Meta dismantles diversity programmes after ending fact-checks. Is Zuckerberg trying to appease Trump? 'Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of purse' "In his crusade to erase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility from our country, President Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of the purse, nor can he silence those who disagree with him by threatening them with the loss of federal funds and other enforcement action," the lawsuit read. Trump's executive order against the diversity policies sought the widespread dismissal of federal government employees with the directive to "terminate, to the maximum extent allowed by law, all DEI, DEIA, and 'environmental justice' offices and positions." Also read: US judge orders Boeing and DOJ to clarify diversity policy before ruling on plea The order targeted publicly traded corporations, large non-profit corporations, state and local bar and medical associations, foundations, and university endowments, seeking to deter them from engaging in diversity programmes. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump sued by diversity officers in an attempt to block anti-diversity orders

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who will be meeting US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 4) in Washington DC, has reportedly skipped <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">Gaza ceasefire</a> talks with Hamas.&nbsp;
According to the ceasefire agreement, talks on the next phase to extend the ceasefire were due to begin on February 3. However, there has been silence from Netanyahu's office about when a negotiating team will hold the talks with the Palestinian militant group.&nbsp;
The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into force in January and is scheduled to expire on March 1.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-on-historic-us-visit-to-discuss-gaza-ceasefire-with-trump-hamas-signals-readiness-for-next-phase-8687643" rel="dofollow">Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire with President Trump during &lsquo;historic&rsquo; US visit</a>
However, Hamas has not said anything publicly about Monday's deadline for ceasefire talks.&nbsp;
Moreover, the Israeli government has not yet disclosed the team which will be negotiating with the Hamas group.&nbsp;
Earlier on Sunday, Qatar&rsquo;s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Than said that there was no clarity on when or how the talks would start. "We hope to see some movement in the coming days,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-20-hostages-in-gaza-yet-to-be-released-from-hamas-captives-8684589" rel="dofollow">Who are the 20 hostages in Gaza yet to be released by Hamas?</a>
<h2>'No guarantees...'</h2>
As Trump and Netanyahu are set to meet today in the White House, the US president told reporters on Monday, "I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold."
Although, Trump has been taking credit for the Gaza ceasefire agreement held between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;
Both leaders will be discussing the prospects of the ceasefire deal and will touch on a long-sought Israel-Saudi Arabia normalisation deal and concerns about Iran&rsquo;s nuclear programme.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-invites-netanyahu-to-white-house-on-feb-4-confirms-israel-pm-office-8662623" rel="dofollow">Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms</a>
It will mark Netanyahu's first visit outside the country since the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for him.&nbsp;
On Monday, Netanyahu and Trump&rsquo;s Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff began the daunting task of hammering out the next phase of a ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;
Notably, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has reaffirmed control over Gaza since the ceasefire began last month and has said that it will not release hostages in the second phase without an end to the war as well as Israeli forces' complete withdrawal.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: There has been silence from Netanyahu's office about when a negotiating team will hold the talks with the Palestinian militant group. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who will be meeting US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 4) in Washington DC, has reportedly skipped Gaza ceasefire talks with Hamas. According to the ceasefire agreement, talks on the next phase to extend the ceasefire were due to begin on February 3. However, there has been silence from Netanyahu's office about when a negotiating team will hold the talks with the Palestinian militant group. The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into force in January and is scheduled to expire on March 1. Also read: Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire with President Trump during ‘historic’ US visit However, Hamas has not said anything publicly about Monday's deadline for ceasefire talks. Moreover, the Israeli government has not yet disclosed the team which will be negotiating with the Hamas group. Earlier on Sunday, Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Than said that there was no clarity on when or how the talks would start. "We hope to see some movement in the coming days,” he added. Also read: Who are the 20 hostages in Gaza yet to be released by Hamas? 'No guarantees...' As Trump and Netanyahu are set to meet today in the White House, the US president told reporters on Monday, "I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold." Although, Trump has been taking credit for the Gaza ceasefire agreement held between Israel and Hamas. Both leaders will be discussing the prospects of the ceasefire deal and will touch on a long-sought Israel-Saudi Arabia normalisation deal and concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme. Also read: Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms It will mark Netanyahu's first visit outside the country since the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for him. On Monday, Netanyahu and Trump’s Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff began the daunting task of hammering out the next phase of a ceasefire agreement. Notably, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has reaffirmed control over Gaza since the ceasefire began last month and has said that it will not release hostages in the second phase without an end to the war as well as Israeli forces' complete withdrawal. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu skips Gaza ceasefire talks deadline with Hamas to meet Trump

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Feb 2) threatened to take control of the Panama Canal, saying &ldquo;something very powerful is going to happen soon&rdquo; amid his concern over Chinese &ldquo;influence&rdquo; and control over it.
Trump also said China is running the critical waterway, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, violating the treaty signed in 1977 and using it against the US.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-cut-south-africa-funds-over-treating-certain-classes-of-people-very-badly-8685273">Trump to cut South Africa funds over treating 'certain classes of people very badly'</a>
&ldquo;China is running the Panama Canal that was not given to China, that was given to Panama foolishly, but they violated the agreement, and we&rsquo;re going to take it back, or something very powerful is going to happen,&rdquo; Trump told reporters.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> on the Panama Canal: &ldquo;China's running the Panama Canal&hellip; it was not given to China&hellip; But they violated the agreement and we're going to take it back or something very powerful is going to happen.&rdquo; <a href="https://t.co/Y8EtxE4y5O">pic.twitter.com/Y8EtxE4y5O</a>
&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1886216596659773548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Panama Canal was built by the US and was opened in 1914. It was handed over to Panama as part of the Torrijos&ndash;Carter Treaties signed by the US and Panama in 1977 which guaranteed Panama the control of the canal after 1999.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-will-have-discussion-with-canada-mexico-over-sweeping-tariffs-dont-expect-anything-dramatic-8685071">Trump says will have discussion with Canada, Mexico over sweeping tariffs; 'don't expect anything dramatic'</a>
<h2>Secretary of State Rubio warns President Mulino</h2>
The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also threatened to take action against Panama on Sunday (Feb 3). He warned President Jose Raul Mulino that the US would &ldquo;take measures necessary&rdquo; if Panama did not immediately end China&rsquo;s influence over the canal.
Mulino insisted that he was not afraid of US invasion and offered discussions.
The top US diplomat visited Panama on his first trip abroad and took a tour of the canal along with its Panamanian administrator.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pain-but-worth-the-price-for-americans-trump-says-as-canada-mexico-hit-back-over-tariffs-row-8684487">'Pain, but worth the price' for Americans: Trump says as Canada, Mexico hit back over tariffs row</a>
According to the US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, Rubio met with Mulino and &ldquo;made clear that this status quo is unacceptable and that absent immediate changes, it would require the United States to take measures necessary to protect its rights under the treaty.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The meeting between the two was respectful and cordial, said Panama President Mulino, as per a Reuters report. He also said that the canal was being operated by his country and will continue to be.
Also read | Canada, Mexico respond with retaliatory tariffs on US Goods
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0302_TRUMP_9AM_wion/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0302_TRUMP_9AM_wion.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=257&amp;tags=canada, mexico, usa, tariff" title="Canada, Mexico respond with retaliatory tariffs on US Goods" id="PL_iframe_block-m6onlds5-d9mrsoe5-7fewnlay"></iframe>
&ldquo;We spoke extensively about the problem of migration, with the understanding that Panama is a transit point,&rdquo; said Mulino, noting that an expanded deal may potentially allow for the deportation of migrants from Venezuela, Ecuador and Colombia.
He added that he would not renew China&rsquo;s Belt and Road Initiative when it expires.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trump also said China is running the critical waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, violating the agreement as it was not given to China. 

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Feb 2) threatened to take control of the Panama Canal, saying “something very powerful is going to happen soon” amid his concern over Chinese “influence” and control over it. Trump also said China is running the critical waterway, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, violating the treaty signed in 1977 and using it against the US. Also read | Trump to cut South Africa funds over treating 'certain classes of people very badly' “China is running the Panama Canal that was not given to China, that was given to Panama foolishly, but they violated the agreement, and we’re going to take it back, or something very powerful is going to happen,” Trump told reporters. President @realDonaldTrump on the Panama Canal: “China's running the Panama Canal… it was not given to China… But they violated the agreement and we're going to take it back or something very powerful is going to happen.” pic.twitter.com/Y8EtxE4y5O — Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) February 3, 2025 The Panama Canal was built by the US and was opened in 1914. It was handed over to Panama as part of the Torrijos–Carter Treaties signed by the US and Panama in 1977 which guaranteed Panama the control of the canal after 1999. Also read | Trump says will have discussion with Canada, Mexico over sweeping tariffs; 'don't expect anything dramatic' Secretary of State Rubio warns President Mulino The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also threatened to take action against Panama on Sunday (Feb 3). He warned President Jose Raul Mulino that the US would “take measures necessary” if Panama did not immediately end China’s influence over the canal. Mulino insisted that he was not afraid of US invasion and offered discussions. The top US diplomat visited Panama on his first trip abroad and took a tour of the canal along with its Panamanian administrator. Also read | 'Pain, but worth the price' for Americans: Trump says as Canada, Mexico hit back over tariffs row According to the US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, Rubio met with Mulino and “made clear that this status quo is unacceptable and that absent immediate changes, it would require the United States to take measures necessary to protect its rights under the treaty.” The meeting between the two was respectful and cordial, said Panama President Mulino, as per a Reuters report. He also said that the canal was being operated by his country and will continue to be. Also read | Canada, Mexico respond with retaliatory tariffs on US Goods “We spoke extensively about the problem of migration, with the understanding that Panama is a transit point,” said Mulino, noting that an expanded deal may potentially allow for the deportation of migrants from Venezuela, Ecuador and Colombia. He added that he would not renew China’s Belt and Road Initiative when it expires. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Something very powerful is going to happen’: Trump threatens to take Panama Canal

<div>The European Union insisted Sunday it would retaliate "firmly" if US President Donald Trump hit it with tariffs, as Brussels decried his sweeping measures against Canada, Mexico and China.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Brussels until now has said it hopes to avoid a trade conflict with Trump through negotiation.</div>
<div></div>
<div>But on Friday the US leader doubled down by saying he "absolutely" planned to target the EU in future, after first slapping levies on his North American neighbours and China.</div>
<div></div>
<div>"The European Union regrets the US decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China," said a spokesman for the European Commission.</div>
<div></div>
<div>"Tariffs create unnecessary economic disruption and drive inflation. They are hurtful to all sides."</div>
<div></div>
<div>The spokesman said, "The EU would respond firmly to any trading partner that unfairly or arbitrarily imposes tariffs on EU goods".</div>
<div></div>
<div>"At this time, we are not aware of any additional tariffs being imposed on EU products," he added.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-10-world-news-trump-says-tariff-pain-worth-it-cbs-to-hand-over-harris-interview-transcript-and-more-8684583">Top 10 world news: Trump says tariff pain 'worth it': CBS to hand over Harris interview transcript, and more</a></div>
<div></div>
<div>He said the 27-nation EU remained committed to low tariffs to "drive growth and economic stability within a strong, rules-based trading system".</div>
<div></div>
<div>And he reiterated the EU's commitment to its trade and investment relationship with the United States -- "the biggest in the world".</div>
<div></div>
<div>"There is a lot at stake," said the spokesman. "We should both be looking at strengthening this relationship."</div>
<div></div>
<div>Trump has not hidden his enmity for the EU, accusing it of treating the United States "very, very unfairly" on trade.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pain-but-worth-the-price-for-americans-trump-says-as-canada-mexico-hit-back-over-tariffs-row-8684487">'Pain, but worth the price' for Americans: Trump says as Canada, Mexico hit back over tariffs row</a></div>
<div></div>
<div>Tensions have also risen over his repeated insistence that he wants to take Greenland from EU member Denmark.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Back in 2018, during his first term, Trump imposed tariffs on European steel and aluminium exports -- leading the EU to respond with its own higher duties.</div>
<div></div>
<div>As a result, Europe has been gaming out scenarios for months to ensure it is ready this time around, should it decide to unleash a new trade conflict with the bloc.</div>
<div></div>
<h2>'Not help anybody'</h2>
<div>EU diplomats and officials insist they stand united and have the tools to respond to any Trump measures -- but experts also point to likely cracks if he ups the pressure.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Economic powerhouse Germany -- facing a fraught election this month and a sluggish economy -- has been squeamish over tariffs.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Trump is also likely to try to play the interests of the individual EU states off against each other.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Some European leaders have already been jostling to get closer to him, with Italy's Giorgia Meloni leading the pack.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani wrote Sunday that a "tariff war does not help anybody", saying Italy has ideas to protect its companies and that Rome will be a mediator with Washington.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/that-train-has-left-trump-reacts-after-us-state-departments-trans-search-results-suggests-trains-8684279">&lsquo;That train has left&rsquo;: Trump reacts after US State Department&rsquo;s &lsquo;trans&rsquo; search results suggests &lsquo;trains&rsquo;</a></div>
<div></div>
<div>EU officials remain hopeful they can talk Trump out of pulling the tariff trigger.</div>
<div></div>
<div>European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen back in November floated a potential plan to keep Trump on the side: buying more liquefied natural gas from the United States.</div>
<div></div>
<div>That has been billed as a potential win-win by Brussels as it would help the bloc ditch supplies from Russia while also placating the US leader.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Trump himself has demanded the EU buy more US oil and gas -- while also complaining the bloc does not import enough American cars and farm products.</div>
<div></div>
<div>EU leaders are expected to discuss the looming tariff threat from Trump in Brussels on Monday at a gathering intended to focus on defence issues.</div>
<div></div>
<div>American military might still underpin European security through NATO, and US allies nervously eyeing Russia fear that riling Trump could threaten Washington's role in protecting their continent.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</div>
<div></div>
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World: The European Union vows strong retaliation if President Trump enforces tariffs, highlighting tensions over his trade measures impacting Canada, Mexico, and China.

The European Union insisted Sunday it would retaliate "firmly" if US President Donald Trump hit it with tariffs, as Brussels decried his sweeping measures against Canada, Mexico and China. Brussels until now has said it hopes to avoid a trade conflict with Trump through negotiation. But on Friday the US leader doubled down by saying he "absolutely" planned to target the EU in future, after first slapping levies on his North American neighbours and China. "The European Union regrets the US decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China," said a spokesman for the European Commission. "Tariffs create unnecessary economic disruption and drive inflation. They are hurtful to all sides." The spokesman said, "The EU would respond firmly to any trading partner that unfairly or arbitrarily imposes tariffs on EU goods". "At this time, we are not aware of any additional tariffs being imposed on EU products," he added. Also read | Top 10 world news: Trump says tariff pain 'worth it': CBS to hand over Harris interview transcript, and more He said the 27-nation EU remained committed to low tariffs to "drive growth and economic stability within a strong, rules-based trading system". And he reiterated the EU's commitment to its trade and investment relationship with the United States -- "the biggest in the world". "There is a lot at stake," said the spokesman. "We should both be looking at strengthening this relationship." Trump has not hidden his enmity for the EU, accusing it of treating the United States "very, very unfairly" on trade. Also read | 'Pain, but worth the price' for Americans: Trump says as Canada, Mexico hit back over tariffs row Tensions have also risen over his repeated insistence that he wants to take Greenland from EU member Denmark. Back in 2018, during his first term, Trump imposed tariffs on European steel and aluminium exports -- leading the EU to respond with its own higher duties. As a result, Europe has been gaming out scenarios for months to ensure it is ready this time around, should it decide to unleash a new trade conflict with the bloc. 'Not help anybody' EU diplomats and officials insist they stand united and have the tools to respond to any Trump measures -- but experts also point to likely cracks if he ups the pressure. Economic powerhouse Germany -- facing a fraught election this month and a sluggish economy -- has been squeamish over tariffs. Trump is also likely to try to play the interests of the individual EU states off against each other. Some European leaders have already been jostling to get closer to him, with Italy's Giorgia Meloni leading the pack. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani wrote Sunday that a "tariff war does not help anybody", saying Italy has ideas to protect its companies and that Rome will be a mediator with Washington. Also read | ‘That train has left’: Trump reacts after US State Department’s ‘trans’ search results suggests ‘trains’ EU officials remain hopeful they can talk Trump out of pulling the tariff trigger. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen back in November floated a potential plan to keep Trump on the side: buying more liquefied natural gas from the United States. That has been billed as a potential win-win by Brussels as it would help the bloc ditch supplies from Russia while also placating the US leader. Trump himself has demanded the EU buy more US oil and gas -- while also complaining the bloc does not import enough American cars and farm products. EU leaders are expected to discuss the looming tariff threat from Trump in Brussels on Monday at a gathering intended to focus on defence issues. American military might still underpin European security through NATO, and US allies nervously eyeing Russia fear that riling Trump could threaten Washington's role in protecting their continent. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US: EU stands firm as Trump unleashes tariffs

Days after the Washington DC plane crash, US First Lady Melania Trump expressed her condolences to the families of those killed in the mid-air collision. Netizens were impressed by her post on social media, saying she showed "true compassion".&nbsp;
The helicopter and the American Airlines passenger plane collision killed at least 67 people.&nbsp;
Melania in a heartfelt message for the families of the victims, said, "My heart goes out to those impacted by last night&rsquo;s terrible tragedy. I pray for those who so sadly lost their lives, their families &amp; loved ones, &amp; the first responders who have worked tirelessly through the night. May they find strength and solace in this difficult time."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flight-data-from-the-mid-air-collision-in-dc-shows-discrepancy-in-altitudes-8683481" rel="dofollow">Washington DC Crash: Flight data raises more questions as discrepancies arise</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My heart goes out to those impacted by last night&rsquo;s terrible tragedy. I pray for those who so sadly lost their lives, their families &amp; loved ones, &amp; the first responders who have worked tirelessly through the night. May they find strength and solace in this difficult time.
&mdash; First Lady Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1884991986073059607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
Her post gained over 2.5 million views and more than 2000 comments.&nbsp;
However, on the contrary, when asked if he would be visiting the crash site, US President Donald Trump sarcastically replied, "You tell me, what&rsquo;s the site? The water? You want me to go swimming?&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-helicopter-black-box-found-41-of-67-victim-bodies-recovered-divers-continue-to-search-for-remaining-26-8679585" rel="dofollow">Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on</a>
He also took to Truth Social, saying, "This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!!."
<h2>Netizens call Trump 'classless'</h2>
The netizens commented on Melania's post, expressing gratitude to her for her sympathies, and saying that it is so heartwarming to have true compassion from our White House.
&ldquo;Thank you for being such a compassionate First Lady in time of need. We should all join together to pray,&rdquo; another commented.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-too-complicated-to-understand-trump-says-helicopter-involved-in-washington-crash-was-flying-too-high-8678961" rel="dofollow"> 'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high'</a>
Another user commented, "Thank You First Lady Trump. Hearing it come from you with your grace and sincere empathy must mean a lot to the grieving families during this horrific tragedy."
However, some other users asked the First Lady to note her husband's reaction to the incident. They said that Melania should talk to her husband about being "more human".&nbsp;
"Maybe talk to your husband about being a little more human about this event. Oh and ask why he gutted the FAA. Always thoughts and prayers with this administration and nothing else,&rdquo; a user said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-hawk-pilot-atc-missteps-obama-or-dei-hiring-whos-really-to-blame-8678560" rel="dofollow">Black Hawk pilot, ATC missteps, Obama, or DEI hiring: Who's really to blame for the Washington DC plane crash?</a>
&ldquo;Better response than your classless husband gave,&rdquo; another stated.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The netizens commented on Melania's post, expressing gratitude to her for her sympathies, and saying that it is so heartwarming to have true compassion from our White House.

Days after the Washington DC plane crash, US First Lady Melania Trump expressed her condolences to the families of those killed in the mid-air collision. Netizens were impressed by her post on social media, saying she showed "true compassion". The helicopter and the American Airlines passenger plane collision killed at least 67 people. Melania in a heartfelt message for the families of the victims, said, "My heart goes out to those impacted by last night’s terrible tragedy. I pray for those who so sadly lost their lives, their families & loved ones, & the first responders who have worked tirelessly through the night. May they find strength and solace in this difficult time." Also read: Washington DC Crash: Flight data raises more questions as discrepancies arise My heart goes out to those impacted by last night’s terrible tragedy. I pray for those who so sadly lost their lives, their families & loved ones, & the first responders who have worked tirelessly through the night. May they find strength and solace in this difficult time. — First Lady Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) January 30, 2025 Her post gained over 2.5 million views and more than 2000 comments. However, on the contrary, when asked if he would be visiting the crash site, US President Donald Trump sarcastically replied, "You tell me, what’s the site? The water? You want me to go swimming?” Also read: Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on He also took to Truth Social, saying, "This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!!." Netizens call Trump 'classless' The netizens commented on Melania's post, expressing gratitude to her for her sympathies, and saying that it is so heartwarming to have true compassion from our White House. “Thank you for being such a compassionate First Lady in time of need. We should all join together to pray,” another commented. Also read: 'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high' Another user commented, "Thank You First Lady Trump. Hearing it come from you with your grace and sincere empathy must mean a lot to the grieving families during this horrific tragedy." However, some other users asked the First Lady to note her husband's reaction to the incident. They said that Melania should talk to her husband about being "more human". "Maybe talk to your husband about being a little more human about this event. Oh and ask why he gutted the FAA. Always thoughts and prayers with this administration and nothing else,” a user said. Also read: Black Hawk pilot, ATC missteps, Obama, or DEI hiring: Who's really to blame for the Washington DC plane crash? “Better response than your classless husband gave,” another stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Netizens praise Melania's 'compassion' towards DC crash victims, ask her to speak to 'classless' Trump

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Feb 2) said that Americans may feel economic "pain" from his tariffs on key trading partners, but argued it would be "worth the price" to secure US interests.
In a post on Truth Social, the US President said, &ldquo;THIS WILL BE THE GOLDEN AGE OF AMERICA! WILL THERE BE SOME PAIN? YES, MAYBE (AND MAYBE NOT!). BUT WE WILL MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN, AND IT WILL ALL BE WORTH THE PRICE THAT MUST BE PAID. WE ARE A COUNTRY THAT IS NOW BEING RUN WITH COMMON SENSE &mdash; AND THE RESULTS WILL BE SPECTACULAR!!!&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/that-train-has-left-trump-reacts-after-us-state-departments-trans-search-results-suggests-trains-8684279">&lsquo;That train has left&rsquo;: Trump reacts after US State Department&rsquo;s &lsquo;trans&rsquo; search results suggests &lsquo;trains&rsquo;</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump slams Wall Street Journal newspaper&nbsp;</h2>
Trump further slammed the Wall Street Journal newspaper for its piece over his proposed tariffs and said, &ldquo;The &ldquo;Tariff Lobby,&rdquo; headed by the Globalist, and always wrong, Wall Street Journal, is working hard to justify Countries like Canada, Mexico, China, and too many others to name, continue the decades-long RIPOFF OF AMERICA, both with regard to TRADE, CRIME, AND POISONOUS DRUGS that are allowed to so freely flow into AMERICA. THOSE DAYS ARE OVER!&rdquo;
&ldquo;The USA has major deficits with Canada, Mexico, and China (and almost all countries!), owes 36 Trillion Dollars, and we&rsquo;re not going to be the &ldquo;Stupid Country&rdquo; any longer. MAKE YOUR PRODUCT IN THE USA AND THERE ARE NO TARIFFS! Why should the United States lose TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN SUBSIDIZING OTHER COUNTRIES, and why should these other countries pay a small fraction of the cost of what USA citizens pay for Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, as an example?&rdquo; the US President added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-releases-video-of-us-airstrike-on-is-targets-in-somalia-8684137">Trump releases video of US airstrike on IS targets in Somalia</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump calls for Canada to become "51st State" again</h2>
In another post, Trump called again for Canada to become a US state, promising &ldquo;much lower taxes, and far better military protection for the Canadians&rdquo;.
&ldquo;We pay hundreds of Billions of Dollars to SUBSIDIZE Canada. Why? There is no reason. We don&rsquo;t need anything they have. We have unlimited Energy, should make our own Cars, and have more Lumber than we can ever use. Without this massive subsidy, Canada ceases to exist as a viable Country. Harsh but true! Therefore, Canada should become our Cherished 51st State. Much lower taxes, and far better military protection for the people of Canada &mdash; AND NO TARIFFS!&rdquo; he wrote on Truth Social.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: US President Donald Trump acknowledged potential economic challenges from tariffs but insisted they are necessary to protect and advance US strategic interests.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Feb 2) said that Americans may feel economic "pain" from his tariffs on key trading partners, but argued it would be "worth the price" to secure US interests. In a post on Truth Social, the US President said, “THIS WILL BE THE GOLDEN AGE OF AMERICA! WILL THERE BE SOME PAIN? YES, MAYBE (AND MAYBE NOT!). BUT WE WILL MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN, AND IT WILL ALL BE WORTH THE PRICE THAT MUST BE PAID. WE ARE A COUNTRY THAT IS NOW BEING RUN WITH COMMON SENSE — AND THE RESULTS WILL BE SPECTACULAR!!!” Also read | ‘That train has left’: Trump reacts after US State Department’s ‘trans’ search results suggests ‘trains’ Trump slams Wall Street Journal newspaper Trump further slammed the Wall Street Journal newspaper for its piece over his proposed tariffs and said, “The “Tariff Lobby,” headed by the Globalist, and always wrong, Wall Street Journal, is working hard to justify Countries like Canada, Mexico, China, and too many others to name, continue the decades-long RIPOFF OF AMERICA, both with regard to TRADE, CRIME, AND POISONOUS DRUGS that are allowed to so freely flow into AMERICA. THOSE DAYS ARE OVER!” “The USA has major deficits with Canada, Mexico, and China (and almost all countries!), owes 36 Trillion Dollars, and we’re not going to be the “Stupid Country” any longer. MAKE YOUR PRODUCT IN THE USA AND THERE ARE NO TARIFFS! Why should the United States lose TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN SUBSIDIZING OTHER COUNTRIES, and why should these other countries pay a small fraction of the cost of what USA citizens pay for Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, as an example?” the US President added. Also read | Trump releases video of US airstrike on IS targets in Somalia Trump calls for Canada to become "51st State" again In another post, Trump called again for Canada to become a US state, promising “much lower taxes, and far better military protection for the Canadians”. “We pay hundreds of Billions of Dollars to SUBSIDIZE Canada. Why? There is no reason. We don’t need anything they have. We have unlimited Energy, should make our own Cars, and have more Lumber than we can ever use. Without this massive subsidy, Canada ceases to exist as a viable Country. Harsh but true! Therefore, Canada should become our Cherished 51st State. Much lower taxes, and far better military protection for the people of Canada — AND NO TARIFFS!” he wrote on Truth Social. (With inputs from agencies)

'Pain, but worth the price' for Americans: Trump says as Canada, Mexico hit back over tariffs row

Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Sunday (Feb 2) hilariously reacted to the State Department&rsquo;s &lsquo;trans&rsquo; search result suggesting &lsquo;Trains&rsquo; and said, &ldquo;That train has left&rdquo;.
A viral post on X has drawn attention to the State Department's website after a user claimed that searching for the word "trans" returned the suggestion, "Did you mean trains?"
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-releases-video-of-us-airstrike-on-is-targets-in-somalia-8684137">Trump releases video of US airstrike on IS targets in Somalia</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Elon Musk responds</h2>
The post quickly gained traction, with billionaire Elon Musk responding with a "🚂" emoji.
The post sparked a flurry of reactions, ranging from mockery to observations about shifting government priorities. One user quipped, &ldquo;The government finally prioritizing infrastructure over identity politics&mdash;progress!&rdquo; Another joked about the ambiguity, writing, &ldquo;Did you mean transformers?&rdquo;
The reactions come amid a sweeping directive from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) under President Donald Trump, which ordered federal agencies to remove gender-related references from government websites.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-near-for-american-aid-agencies-as-usaid-website-goes-offline-amid-trumps-freeze-on-foreign-aid-8684258">End near for American aid agencies as USAID website goes offline amid Trump's freeze on foreign aid</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump bans transgender from US military</h2>
Earlier, Trump signed an executive order to bar transgender people from the military on Monday (Jan 27). This was one of the four orders he signed aboard Air Force One while travelling from Florida to Washington. The US president ordered the Pentagon to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes as well.
"To ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military. It's going to be gone," Trump said while addressing a retreat with House Republicans.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Elon Musk humorously addressed a State Department search mishap involving the word trans, jokingly suggesting trains as the intended search result.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Sunday (Feb 2) hilariously reacted to the State Department’s ‘trans’ search result suggesting ‘Trains’ and said, “That train has left”. A viral post on X has drawn attention to the State Department's website after a user claimed that searching for the word "trans" returned the suggestion, "Did you mean trains?" Also read | Trump releases video of US airstrike on IS targets in Somalia Elon Musk responds The post quickly gained traction, with billionaire Elon Musk responding with a "🚂" emoji. The post sparked a flurry of reactions, ranging from mockery to observations about shifting government priorities. One user quipped, “The government finally prioritizing infrastructure over identity politics—progress!” Another joked about the ambiguity, writing, “Did you mean transformers?” The reactions come amid a sweeping directive from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) under President Donald Trump, which ordered federal agencies to remove gender-related references from government websites. Also read | End near for American aid agencies as USAID website goes offline amid Trump's freeze on foreign aid Trump bans transgender from US military Earlier, Trump signed an executive order to bar transgender people from the military on Monday (Jan 27). This was one of the four orders he signed aboard Air Force One while travelling from Florida to Washington. The US president ordered the Pentagon to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes as well. "To ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military. It's going to be gone," Trump said while addressing a retreat with House Republicans. (With inputs from agencies)

‘That train has left’: Musk reacts after US State Department's 'trans' search result suggests 'trains'

CBS has agreed to provide the unedited transcript of its interview with former US Vice President Kamla Harris to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) after a lawsuit against the media outlet was pushed by US President Donald Trump. Harris had appeared on CBS' "60 Minutes&rdquo; show for an interview before the 2024 US Presidential election.&nbsp;
Trump accused the network has unfairly edited some segments of the interview to manipulate Harris' portrayal in her favour. The US President has filed a $10 million lawsuit against the media outlet.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-releases-video-of-us-airstrike-on-is-targets-in-somalia-8684137">Trump releases video of US airstrike on IS targets in Somalia</a>
Reports have emerged that Paramount, the parent company of CBS, is in discussion with Trump's legal team to settle the matter. The network announced on Friday (Jan 31) that Trump&rsquo;s appointee as FCC chairman, Brendan Carr compelled the network to provide the transcript for an investigation by the commission.&nbsp;
<h2>The controversy&nbsp;</h2>
The lawsuit, filed on November 1, claimed CBS was engaged in partisan editing that amounted to unlawful voter interference. But, Trump has pursued the case even after the election and winning the race.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-unveils-sweeping-tariffs-on-canada-mexico-and-china-8682715">US President Trump unveils sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China</a>
The network has said that the team of "60 Minutes&rdquo; resisted handing over the transcript and the camera footage due to the fear of unnecessary scrutiny of their editorial process.&nbsp;
CBS rejected Trump&rsquo;s claims and called the lawsuit &ldquo;completely without merit&rdquo;.&nbsp;
The controversy over Harris' interview started after CBS aired two different responses of Harris on the same question. One response was aired on &ldquo;Face the Nation&rdquo; while the other was shown on "60 Minutes".&nbsp;
<h2>Donald Trump vs US media&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-tariffs-could-hit-canada-mexico-and-china-tomorrow-why-even-americans-should-be-worried-8679177">Trump&rsquo;s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be&nbsp;worried?</a>
The lawsuit against CBS is part of a broader battle between Trump with major US media outlets.&nbsp;
In December last year, ABC News settled a defamation case by Trump and agreed to pay $15 million to his presidential library.&nbsp;
On Friday (Jan 31), the Trump administration announced to institute a new &ldquo;annual media rotation program&rdquo; for its in-house press corps. The move will remove several major media outlets such as The New York Times and NBC News.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-find-and-kill-you-trumps-stern-warning-as-us-conducts-air-strikes-on-is-targets-in-somalia-8682499">'WILL FIND AND KILL YOU': Trump's stern warning as US conducts air strikes on IS targets in Somalia</a>
The One America News Network will replace NBC News, Breitbart will be given the space held by National Public Radio and the New York Post has been offered the New York Times&rsquo; workspace, The Guardian reported. Politico's place will be taken by HuffPost.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The network announced on Friday (Jan 31) that Trump’s appointee as FCC chairman, Brendan Carr compelled the network to provide the transcript for an investigation by the commission. 

CBS has agreed to provide the unedited transcript of its interview with former US Vice President Kamla Harris to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) after a lawsuit against the media outlet was pushed by US President Donald Trump. Harris had appeared on CBS' "60 Minutes” show for an interview before the 2024 US Presidential election. Trump accused the network has unfairly edited some segments of the interview to manipulate Harris' portrayal in her favour. The US President has filed a $10 million lawsuit against the media outlet. Also read: Trump releases video of US airstrike on IS targets in Somalia Reports have emerged that Paramount, the parent company of CBS, is in discussion with Trump's legal team to settle the matter. The network announced on Friday (Jan 31) that Trump’s appointee as FCC chairman, Brendan Carr compelled the network to provide the transcript for an investigation by the commission. The controversy The lawsuit, filed on November 1, claimed CBS was engaged in partisan editing that amounted to unlawful voter interference. But, Trump has pursued the case even after the election and winning the race. Also read: US President Trump unveils sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China The network has said that the team of "60 Minutes” resisted handing over the transcript and the camera footage due to the fear of unnecessary scrutiny of their editorial process. CBS rejected Trump’s claims and called the lawsuit “completely without merit”. The controversy over Harris' interview started after CBS aired two different responses of Harris on the same question. One response was aired on “Face the Nation” while the other was shown on "60 Minutes". Donald Trump vs US media Also read: Trump’s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be worried? The lawsuit against CBS is part of a broader battle between Trump with major US media outlets. In December last year, ABC News settled a defamation case by Trump and agreed to pay $15 million to his presidential library. On Friday (Jan 31), the Trump administration announced to institute a new “annual media rotation program” for its in-house press corps. The move will remove several major media outlets such as The New York Times and NBC News. Also read: 'WILL FIND AND KILL YOU': Trump's stern warning as US conducts air strikes on IS targets in Somalia The One America News Network will replace NBC News, Breitbart will be given the space held by National Public Radio and the New York Post has been offered the New York Times’ workspace, The Guardian reported. Politico's place will be taken by HuffPost. (With inputs from agencies)

CBS agrees to hand over 'unedited' '60 minutes' Kamala Harris interview transcript to FCC. Here's all about the controversy

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Feb 2) shared a video of the first American airstrike on Islamic State targets in an African nation during his second term.&nbsp;
A day after announcing that he had ordered &lsquo;precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia&rsquo;, Trump shared the unverified footage on his Truth Social platform.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-find-and-kill-you-trumps-stern-warning-as-us-conducts-air-strikes-on-is-targets-in-somalia-8682499">'WILL FIND AND KILL YOU': Trump's stern warning as US conducts air strikes on IS targets in Somalia</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump's stern warning</h2>
This comes after the United States military on Saturday (Feb 1) conducted air strikes on Islamic State group targets in Somalia.
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113931812065727107/embed" class="truthsocial-embed truthsocial-video" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

Trump on Truth Social had posted, &ldquo;This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia. These killers, who we found hiding in caves, threatened the United States and our Allies. The strikes destroyed the caves they live in, and killed many terrorists without, in any way, harming civilians. Our Military has targeted this ISIS Attack Planner for years, but Biden and his cronies wouldn&rsquo;t act quickly enough to get the job done. I did! The message to ISIS and all others who would attack Americans is that &ldquo;WE WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!&rdquo;
Trump, however, did not share the identity of the ISIS planner, nor did he confirm whether that person was killed in the strike.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-become-first-country-to-ban-ai-tools-creating-child-sexual-abuse-images-what-all-does-it-include-8683920">UK to become first country to ban AI tools creating child sexual abuse images. What all does it include?</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Strikes carried out in northern region of Somalia</h2>
The strikes were carried out in a northern region of Somalia, where the Puntland Security Forces (PSF) have been carrying out operations against ISIL since December. The armed group is said to have established a presence in the Golis Mountains.
&ldquo;Recent air strikes have led to the neutralisation of key figures within ISIS, marking a significant advancement as we progress into the second phase of our operation,&rdquo; the regional government said on Sunday.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Explore President Trump's announcement of the first US airstrike on ISIS targets in Africa during his second term, marking a significant military engagement.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Feb 2) shared a video of the first American airstrike on Islamic State targets in an African nation during his second term. A day after announcing that he had ordered ‘precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia’, Trump shared the unverified footage on his Truth Social platform. Also read | 'WILL FIND AND KILL YOU': Trump's stern warning as US conducts air strikes on IS targets in Somalia Trump's stern warning This comes after the United States military on Saturday (Feb 1) conducted air strikes on Islamic State group targets in Somalia. Trump on Truth Social had posted, “This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia. These killers, who we found hiding in caves, threatened the United States and our Allies. The strikes destroyed the caves they live in, and killed many terrorists without, in any way, harming civilians. Our Military has targeted this ISIS Attack Planner for years, but Biden and his cronies wouldn’t act quickly enough to get the job done. I did! The message to ISIS and all others who would attack Americans is that “WE WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!” Trump, however, did not share the identity of the ISIS planner, nor did he confirm whether that person was killed in the strike. Also read | UK to become first country to ban AI tools creating child sexual abuse images. What all does it include? Strikes carried out in northern region of Somalia The strikes were carried out in a northern region of Somalia, where the Puntland Security Forces (PSF) have been carrying out operations against ISIL since December. The armed group is said to have established a presence in the Golis Mountains. “Recent air strikes have led to the neutralisation of key figures within ISIS, marking a significant advancement as we progress into the second phase of our operation,” the regional government said on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump releases video of US airstrike on IS targets in Somalia

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Canada will hit back at tariffs imposed by Trump with 25 per cent levies of its own on select American goods.
China said it "firmly opposes" new tariffs imposed on Beijing by US President Donald Trump.
US President Donald Trump has signed executive orders to impose new tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, according to the White House.
The US Army has released the name of the third soldier on the Black Hawk helicopter involved in the deadly collision with an American Airlines passenger plane in Washington that killed 67.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-will-hit-us-with-retaliatory-tariffs-tuesday-says-trudeau-8682706">Canada will hit US with retaliatory tariffs Tuesday, says Trudeau</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/02/4rSkGnCBvSnHHsBVyQuc.jpg" alt=" Canada will hit US with retaliatory tariffs Tuesday, says Trudeau Photograph: (AFP) ">
Canada will hit back at US tariffs with 25 per cent levies of its own on select American goods, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Saturday.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-firmly-opposes-new-us-tariffs-vows-countermeasures-8682843" rel="dofollow">China 'firmly opposes' new US tariffs, vows 'countermeasures'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/02/HMFL5brvrLcMZ4SLq5sF.jpg" alt=" China 'firmly opposes' new US tariffs, vows 'countermeasures' Photograph: (AFP) ">
China said Sunday it "firmly opposes" new tariffs imposed on Beijing by US President Donald Trump, vowing to take "corresponding countermeasures to resolutely safeguard our own rights and interests".
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-unveils-sweeping-tariffs-on-canada-mexico-and-china-8682715">US President Trump unveils sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/02/oeYTAWF2bozmM6t0NWwt.jpg" alt=" US President Donald Trump Photograph: (AFP) ">
US President Donald Trump announced tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico and China on Saturday (Feb 1). The move has been taken against a &ldquo;major threat&rdquo; from illegal immigration and drugs from the country&rsquo;s largest trading partners.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-captain-rebecca-lobach-third-soldier-aboard-black-hawk-identified-in-dc-plane-crash-8682812">Who is Captain Rebecca Lobach, third soldier aboard Black Hawk identified in DC plane crash?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/02/IvY8b2QvzSxMDL1hzdCl.jpg" alt=" The soldier, identified as Captain Rebecca Lobach of Durham, North Carolina, was one of the three-person crew aboard the UH-60 Black Hawk and co-piloting the aircraft when it hit the plane. Photograph: (US Army) ">
The US Army on Saturday (Feb 1) identified the third soldier who died on the Black Hawk helicopter that crashed into an American Airlines passenger plane in Washington, claiming 67 lives.
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<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0202_climate_730am_wion/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0202_climate_730am_wion_.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=89&amp;tags=Climate, LA, Wildfires, World News, WION" title="LA fires fully contained after burning for 3 weeks | India faces warmer February" id="PL_iframe_block-m6n4o5a3-559a1r13-px9884q2"></iframe>

World | Begin your day with WION's morning update, delivering top news stories, expert opinions, and comprehensive reports to keep you informed and ready to face the day.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Canada will hit back at tariffs imposed by Trump with 25 per cent levies of its own on select American goods. China said it "firmly opposes" new tariffs imposed on Beijing by US President Donald Trump. US President Donald Trump has signed executive orders to impose new tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, according to the White House. The US Army has released the name of the third soldier on the Black Hawk helicopter involved in the deadly collision with an American Airlines passenger plane in Washington that killed 67. Click on the headlines for more Canada will hit US with retaliatory tariffs Tuesday, says Trudeau Canada will hit back at US tariffs with 25 per cent levies of its own on select American goods, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Saturday. China 'firmly opposes' new US tariffs, vows 'countermeasures' China said Sunday it "firmly opposes" new tariffs imposed on Beijing by US President Donald Trump, vowing to take "corresponding countermeasures to resolutely safeguard our own rights and interests". US President Trump unveils sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China US President Donald Trump announced tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico and China on Saturday (Feb 1). The move has been taken against a “major threat” from illegal immigration and drugs from the country’s largest trading partners. Who is Captain Rebecca Lobach, third soldier aboard Black Hawk identified in DC plane crash? The US Army on Saturday (Feb 1) identified the third soldier who died on the Black Hawk helicopter that crashed into an American Airlines passenger plane in Washington, claiming 67 lives. Watch | LA fires fully contained after burning for 3 weeks | India faces warmer February

Morning news brief: Canada, China hit back as Trump imposes tariffs; US Army names third soldier in DC crash, and more

The United States (US) announced on Friday (Jan 31) to institute a new &ldquo;annual media rotation programme&rdquo; for its in-house press corps. The move will remove several major media outlets such as The New York Times and NBC News.
The One America News Network will replace NBC News, Breitbart will be given the space held by National Public Radio, and the New York Post has been offered the New York Times&rsquo; workspace, The Guardian reported. Politico's place will be taken by HuffPost.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-find-and-kill-you-trumps-stern-warning-as-us-conducts-air-strikes-on-is-targets-in-somalia-8682499">'WILL FIND AND KILL YOU': Trump's stern warning as US conducts air strikes on IS targets in Somalia</a>
According to CNN, the changes will come into effect on February 14.&nbsp;
&ldquo;For over a half-century, the Pentagon Press Corps has benefited from working out of individual office spaces that provide coveted and open access to some of the Department&rsquo;s top military and civilian leaders,&rdquo; Pentagon spokesperson John Ullyot said in a memo sent to the Pentagon Press Association.
&ldquo;To broaden access to the limited space of the Correspondents&rsquo; Corridor to outlets that have not previously enjoyed the privilege and journalist value of working from physical office space in the Pentagon, beginning February 14, 2025,&rdquo; Ullyot wrote, there will be &ldquo;a new Annual Media Rotation Programme for those dedicated media spaces," it further read.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hints-at-major-steps-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-conflict-8679710">Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict</a>
The Guardian reported that the move is majorly symbolic, as these outlets would not lose access to Pentagon briefings. This is due to Trump's plans to mix the access of traditional news outlets with a cohort of non-traditional news outlets. The US President&nbsp;also plans to give access to podcasters, bloggers, and TikTokers.&nbsp;
The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, said in a briefing that the White House had been flooded with over 10,000 applications for the &ldquo;new media&rdquo; seat in the cramped White House briefing room.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-agents-who-investigated-us-president-donald-trump-under-the-sword-amid-reports-of-mass-firings-or-sweeping-purge-8679596">'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings</a>
The newly favoured outlet, HuffPost (formerly known as Huffington Post), does not have a Pentagon correspondent. The media outlet told CNN, &ldquo;If the Trump administration and Secretary Hegseth are interested in more hard-hitting coverage of their stewardship of the defense department from HuffPost, we are ready to deliver."&nbsp;
Meanwhile, NBC expressed its disappointment over the decision of barring it from the broadcast booth at the Pentagon, something that the outlet has had "for many decades". 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-tariffs-could-hit-canada-mexico-and-china-tomorrow-why-even-americans-should-be-worried-8679177">Trump&rsquo;s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be&nbsp;worried?</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | The United States (US) announced on Friday (Jan 31) to institute a new “annual media rotation programme” for its in-house press corps. The move will remove several major media outlets, such as The New York Times and NBC News.

The United States (US) announced on Friday (Jan 31) to institute a new “annual media rotation programme” for its in-house press corps. The move will remove several major media outlets such as The New York Times and NBC News. The One America News Network will replace NBC News, Breitbart will be given the space held by National Public Radio, and the New York Post has been offered the New York Times’ workspace, The Guardian reported. Politico's place will be taken by HuffPost. Also read: 'WILL FIND AND KILL YOU': Trump's stern warning as US conducts air strikes on IS targets in Somalia According to CNN, the changes will come into effect on February 14. “For over a half-century, the Pentagon Press Corps has benefited from working out of individual office spaces that provide coveted and open access to some of the Department’s top military and civilian leaders,” Pentagon spokesperson John Ullyot said in a memo sent to the Pentagon Press Association. “To broaden access to the limited space of the Correspondents’ Corridor to outlets that have not previously enjoyed the privilege and journalist value of working from physical office space in the Pentagon, beginning February 14, 2025,” Ullyot wrote, there will be “a new Annual Media Rotation Programme for those dedicated media spaces," it further read. Also read: Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict The Guardian reported that the move is majorly symbolic, as these outlets would not lose access to Pentagon briefings. This is due to Trump's plans to mix the access of traditional news outlets with a cohort of non-traditional news outlets. The US President also plans to give access to podcasters, bloggers, and TikTokers. The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, said in a briefing that the White House had been flooded with over 10,000 applications for the “new media” seat in the cramped White House briefing room. Also read: 'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings The newly favoured outlet, HuffPost (formerly known as Huffington Post), does not have a Pentagon correspondent. The media outlet told CNN, “If the Trump administration and Secretary Hegseth are interested in more hard-hitting coverage of their stewardship of the defense department from HuffPost, we are ready to deliver." Meanwhile, NBC expressed its disappointment over the decision of barring it from the broadcast booth at the Pentagon, something that the outlet has had "for many decades". Also read: Trump’s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be worried? (With inputs from agencies)

Pentagon removes these major news outlets from the workspace in 'rotation programme'

The Donald Trump administration announced a 25 per cent tariff on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China from February 1 onwards. As per Trump, the move is aimed at boosting the American industry, but experts say it's the US shoppers who will have to pay the price. As per the report by ABC News, experts have said a lot of products will get costlier amid this regime.&nbsp;
<h2>Gas prices might rise</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-tariffs-could-hit-canada-mexico-and-china-tomorrow-why-even-americans-should-be-worried-8679177">Trump&rsquo;s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be&nbsp;worried?</a>
US imports around 70 per cent of its crude oil stock from Canada and Mexico. Reports said the countries are responsible for fuelling a large percentage of the entire gasoline supply in the United States at present.&nbsp;
According to Timothy Fitzgerald, a professor of business economics at the University of Tennessee, prices of fuel can go as high as 40 to 70 per cent, ABC News reported.&nbsp;
He further told the news agency that there could be an additional 30 per cent increase in the prices after the impact of seasonal prices.&nbsp;
<h2>Grocery bills can go up&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-brics-nation-with-100-pc-tariffs-for-replacing-us-dollar-8677282">Trump threatens BRICS nation with 100 pc tariffs for replacing US dollar</a>
Mexico is one of the largest suppliers of food items consumed by Americans on a daily basis. Imposing a tariff on Mexican products would surely make the prices of groceries high.&nbsp;
Some of the common items, like avocados, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, jalapenos, and limes, could see a hike in prices.&nbsp;
The prices can also go high because US producers cannot easily replace these items. This also applies for Mexican-made beer and tequila.&nbsp;
<h2>The automobile industry would be impacted&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-first-trump-vows-tariffs-on-china-india-brazil-and-other-nations-that-harm-us-8661806">'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US</a>
Canada and Mexico are huge suppliers of auto parts to the US, and the imposition of tariffs would lead to a hike in their prices as well.&nbsp;
In 2023, Canada and Mexico accounted for nearly 50 per cent of the US vehicle imports, amounting to around $120 billion.
The companies of vehicles, especially cars, would be impacted after the tariff on both sides of the border. As per Harvard's Kennedy School of Government professor, Robert Lawrence, the tariff would impact the prices of cars for consumers, ABC News reported.&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/colombia-backs-down-on-migrant-row-us-pauses-its-plan-to-impose-tariffs">Colombia backs down on migrant row, US pauses its plan to impose tariffs</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | US exports around 70 percent of its crude oil stock from Canada and Mexico. Reports said the countries are responsible for fueling a large percentage of the entire gasoline supply in the United States at present. 

The Donald Trump administration announced a 25 per cent tariff on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China from February 1 onwards. As per Trump, the move is aimed at boosting the American industry, but experts say it's the US shoppers who will have to pay the price. As per the report by ABC News, experts have said a lot of products will get costlier amid this regime. Gas prices might rise Also read: Trump’s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be worried? US imports around 70 per cent of its crude oil stock from Canada and Mexico. Reports said the countries are responsible for fuelling a large percentage of the entire gasoline supply in the United States at present. According to Timothy Fitzgerald, a professor of business economics at the University of Tennessee, prices of fuel can go as high as 40 to 70 per cent, ABC News reported. He further told the news agency that there could be an additional 30 per cent increase in the prices after the impact of seasonal prices. Grocery bills can go up Also read: Trump threatens BRICS nation with 100 pc tariffs for replacing US dollar Mexico is one of the largest suppliers of food items consumed by Americans on a daily basis. Imposing a tariff on Mexican products would surely make the prices of groceries high. Some of the common items, like avocados, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, jalapenos, and limes, could see a hike in prices. The prices can also go high because US producers cannot easily replace these items. This also applies for Mexican-made beer and tequila. The automobile industry would be impacted Also read: 'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US Canada and Mexico are huge suppliers of auto parts to the US, and the imposition of tariffs would lead to a hike in their prices as well. In 2023, Canada and Mexico accounted for nearly 50 per cent of the US vehicle imports, amounting to around $120 billion. The companies of vehicles, especially cars, would be impacted after the tariff on both sides of the border. As per Harvard's Kennedy School of Government professor, Robert Lawrence, the tariff would impact the prices of cars for consumers, ABC News reported. WATCH: Colombia backs down on migrant row, US pauses its plan to impose tariffs (With inputs from agencies)

US tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China - Here's what will be costlier for Americans now

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