US President Donald Trump campaigned on Thursday in Iowa - the state that kicks off the presidential nominating race next week - basking in the support of his base while the US Senate trial considering his impeachment continued in Washington.

Reviving some of the most polarizing speech lines from his 2016 campaign and mocking his potential Democratic opponents, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-top-court-sides-with-trump-on-immigrant-welfare-benefits-276959">Trump regaled the crowd</a> with a series of campaign promises, including revamping the US healthcare system and continuing to build a wall along the country's southern border with Mexico.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/democratic-debate-in-iowa-274401">Democratic contenders</a> for their party's nomination to challenge Trump in the November election face their first electoral test in the Iowa caucuses on Monday. Trump, who is seeking a second term, is expected to easily win the Republican caucus.

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c628d394-3e03-449a-b53b-89fba6cfa78e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2818%29_5.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;U.S. President Donald Trump mocks House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff&nbsp;as he rallies with supporters (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

His campaign, regardless, is making a show of force in the state and several of his supporters, including both of his adult sons, will be in the state on Monday. Trump's speech on Thursday was squarely focused on the general election. He won Iowa in 2016 and Democrats are not expected to invest many resources trying to flip it back to their column this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-swing-district-democrats-back-joe-bidens-presidential-bid-272511">Three swing-state Democrats back for Joe Biden's presidential bid</a>

But Democrats have dominated the airwaves in Iowa for the past year, making Trump the focus of their appeals to the state's Democratic voters. 
Trump repeated his criticism of his potential Democratic opponents, denigrating former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg for his height and former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg for his last name, and repeating his reference to US Senator Elizabeth Warren as “Pocahontas.”

"Democrats stand for crime, corruption and chaos, Republicans stand for law, order and justice," Trump said. Trump renewed a 2016 campaign promise to make Mexico pay for a wall along the US-Mexico border, a vow he made daily while campaigning the first time but has rarely mentioned since taking office.

"Illegal aliens from Mexico are going to pay for the wall ... through remittance, 100 per cent," Trump said. He also revisited a line from his 2016 campaign, maligning some migrants trying to enter the United States as criminals.

Fresh from signing a new trade agreement with Mexico and Canada on Wednesday and a separate pact with China earlier this month, the president said the Democrats would be bad for Iowa’s farmers - warning they would "kill your cows." "If we don't win, your farms are going to hell," he said. 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump campaigned on Thursday in Iowa - the state that kicks off the presidential nominating race next week - basking in the support of his base while the US Senate trial considering his impeachment continued in Washington.

US President Donald Trump campaigned on Thursday in Iowa - the state that kicks off the presidential nominating race next week - basking in the support of his base while the US Senate trial considering his impeachment continued in Washington. Reviving some of the most polarizing speech lines from his 2016 campaign and mocking his potential Democratic opponents, Trump regaled the crowd with a series of campaign promises, including revamping the US healthcare system and continuing to build a wall along the country's southern border with Mexico. Democratic contenders for their party's nomination to challenge Trump in the November election face their first electoral test in the Iowa caucuses on Monday. Trump, who is seeking a second term, is expected to easily win the Republican caucus. [ U.S. President Donald Trump mocks House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff as he rallies with supporters (Courtesy: Reuters) ] His campaign, regardless, is making a show of force in the state and several of his supporters, including both of his adult sons, will be in the state on Monday. Trump's speech on Thursday was squarely focused on the general election. He won Iowa in 2016 and Democrats are not expected to invest many resources trying to flip it back to their column this year. Also Read: Three swing-state Democrats back for Joe Biden's presidential bid But Democrats have dominated the airwaves in Iowa for the past year, making Trump the focus of their appeals to the state's Democratic voters. Trump repeated his criticism of his potential Democratic opponents, denigrating former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg for his height and former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg for his last name, and repeating his reference to US Senator Elizabeth Warren as “Pocahontas.” "Democrats stand for crime, corruption and chaos, Republicans stand for law, order and justice," Trump said. Trump renewed a 2016 campaign promise to make Mexico pay for a wall along the US-Mexico border, a vow he made daily while campaigning the first time but has rarely mentioned since taking office. "Illegal aliens from Mexico are going to pay for the wall ... through remittance, 100 per cent," Trump said. He also revisited a line from his 2016 campaign, maligning some migrants trying to enter the United States as criminals. Fresh from signing a new trade agreement with Mexico and Canada on Wednesday and a separate pact with China earlier this month, the president said the Democrats would be bad for Iowa’s farmers - warning they would "kill your cows." "If we don't win, your farms are going to hell," he said.

Donald Trump revives border wall promise in Iowa campaign speech, mocks Democrats

Stock markets struggled Friday after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-declares-coronavirus-as-global-health-emergency-277634">World Health Organisation</a> declared a global health emergency over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-wuhan-virus-death-toll-hits-213-in-china-nearly-10000-infected-277621">China</a>'s spreading deadly virus.

With hours to go until <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-will-be-uk-eu-relations-post-brexit-277791">Britain</a> finally leaves the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-will-be-uk-eu-relations-post-brexit-277791">European Union</a>, the London stock market sank 0.8 per cent in late morning deals as a relief rally for the pound hurt exporters.

Frankfurt and Paris shed 0.2 per cent and 0.4 per cent respectively around midday after Asia was also gripped by virus worries in a volatile end to the week.

The novel coronavirus epidemic, which originated in the central Chinese city Wuhan, has so far killed 213 people and spread to at least 19 countries including two cases declared on Friday in Britain.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-wuhan-virus-death-toll-hits-213-in-china-nearly-10000-infected-277621">Wuhan virus death toll hits 213 in China, nearly 10000 infected</a>

China's National Health Commission meanwhile said nearly 10,000 people have been infected.

"Coronavirus is currently spreading six times faster than SARS. Unless a cure is found, this could push a fragile world economic recovery into reverse," warned Douglas McWilliams, deputy chairman at British research group the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR).

He added, "It is clear that unless a cure and a vaccination are found rapidly, the fragile recovery that we predict is at risk. That is why from an economics point of view it is so vital that a cure and a vaccine is found."

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-declares-coronavirus-as-global-health-emergency-277634">WHO declares Coronavirus as global health emergency</a>

Separately, the EU's official statistics agency announced Friday that the 19-member single currency area had already suffered a sharp slowdown after a turbulent year of Brexit uncertainty and trade spats with US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-impeachment-witnesses-and-prez-privilege-dominate-qa-277635">Donald Trump.</a>

The eurozone economy grew 1.2 per cent over the year, down from 1.8 per cent in 2018 and well off the 2.7 per cent seen in 2017.

Meanwhile, the Geneva-based <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-declares-coronavirus-as-global-health-emergency-277634">WHO</a> invoked a global health emergency on coronavirus but stopped short of recommending trade and travel restrictions that could have had a bruising effect on key global growth engine China.

"This is not a vote of no confidence in China," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesushe said, praising Beijing for its swift action to tackle the outbreak.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/myths-vs-facts-about-coronavirus-277676">Myths vs facts about China's coronavirus</a>

'We must act now'

China has locked down a swathe of its centre, effectively quarantining millions of people in their cities and halting travel around the country.

"We must all act together now to limit further spread... We can only stop it together," said Tedros, who travelled to China this week and met with President Xi Jinping.

Foreign airlines including British Airways and Lufthansa have begun cancelling or curtailing flights to and from China, and a number of governments are recommending citizens do not visit the country.

Investors initially applauded the WHO's move, plunging back into markets that have lost altitude over recent days as the 2019-nCoV crisis has worsened.

"Coronavirus fears continue to remain a dominant driver of market sentiment, with the continued proliferation of the virus providing a huge cause for concern," noted IG analyst Joshua Mahony.

"Growth fears remain relevant as the virus continues to spread," he also warned.

World oil prices firmed Friday after plunging the previous day to three-month lows on virus-linked demand fears in China, which is a major market for raw materials including crude.

Stock markets struggled Friday after the World Health Organisation declared a global health emergency over China's spreading deadly virus. With hours to go until Britain finally leaves the European Union, the London stock market sank 0.

Stock markets struggled Friday after the World Health Organisation declared a global health emergency over China's spreading deadly virus. With hours to go until Britain finally leaves the European Union, the London stock market sank 0.8 per cent in late morning deals as a relief rally for the pound hurt exporters. Frankfurt and Paris shed 0.2 per cent and 0.4 per cent respectively around midday after Asia was also gripped by virus worries in a volatile end to the week. The novel coronavirus epidemic, which originated in the central Chinese city Wuhan, has so far killed 213 people and spread to at least 19 countries including two cases declared on Friday in Britain. Also read: Wuhan virus death toll hits 213 in China, nearly 10000 infected China's National Health Commission meanwhile said nearly 10,000 people have been infected. "Coronavirus is currently spreading six times faster than SARS. Unless a cure is found, this could push a fragile world economic recovery into reverse," warned Douglas McWilliams, deputy chairman at British research group the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR). He added, "It is clear that unless a cure and a vaccination are found rapidly, the fragile recovery that we predict is at risk. That is why from an economics point of view it is so vital that a cure and a vaccine is found." Watch: WHO declares Coronavirus as global health emergency Separately, the EU's official statistics agency announced Friday that the 19-member single currency area had already suffered a sharp slowdown after a turbulent year of Brexit uncertainty and trade spats with US President Donald Trump. The eurozone economy grew 1.2 per cent over the year, down from 1.8 per cent in 2018 and well off the 2.7 per cent seen in 2017. Meanwhile, the Geneva-based WHO invoked a global health emergency on coronavirus but stopped short of recommending trade and travel restrictions that could have had a bruising effect on key global growth engine China. "This is not a vote of no confidence in China," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesushe said, praising Beijing for its swift action to tackle the outbreak. Also see: Myths vs facts about China's coronavirus 'We must act now' China has locked down a swathe of its centre, effectively quarantining millions of people in their cities and halting travel around the country. "We must all act together now to limit further spread... We can only stop it together," said Tedros, who travelled to China this week and met with President Xi Jinping. Foreign airlines including British Airways and Lufthansa have begun cancelling or curtailing flights to and from China, and a number of governments are recommending citizens do not visit the country. Investors initially applauded the WHO's move, plunging back into markets that have lost altitude over recent days as the 2019-nCoV crisis has worsened. "Coronavirus fears continue to remain a dominant driver of market sentiment, with the continued proliferation of the virus providing a huge cause for concern," noted IG analyst Joshua Mahony. "Growth fears remain relevant as the virus continues to spread," he also warned. World oil prices firmed Friday after plunging the previous day to three-month lows on virus-linked demand fears in China, which is a major market for raw materials including crude.

Markets struggle after World Health Organisation declares coronavirus emergency

Israeli police increased their presence in Jerusalem's Old City, ahead of the first Friday prayers at the flashpoint Al-Aqsa mosque since US President Donald Trump unveiled a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-tells-vladimir-putin-mideast-deal-a-new-opportunity-277570">controversial peace plan</a>.

The plan released on Tuesday was seen as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jared-kushner-meet-the-man-behind-middle-east-peace-plan-277295">heavily biased towards Israel</a> and was angrily rejected by Palestinians, with one of the key bones of contention being its classification of Jerusalem as Israel's "undivided capital."

Palestinians&nbsp;have long seen the city's eastern sector, which was occupied by Israel in 1967, as the capital of their future state.

At the Al-Aqsa compound in east Jerusalem, a group of Palestinians gathered after dawn prayers and "began a procession with nationalist calls," Israeli police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said.

Police "responded and dispersed the gathering," the official added. Thousands of Palestinians were expected to attend the main prayers at noon, which are often a rallying point for demonstrations.

The Al-Aqsa mosque is Islam's third holiest is also revered by Jews as the location of their Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD.

Rosenfeld said "heightened security" measures would be in place across the Old City and "police units will respond if necessary".

The Trump plan gives Israel the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-west-asia-plan-most-of-west-bank-recognised-as-israel-277297">green light to annex</a> the strategic Jordan Valley, which 30 per cent of the &nbsp;West Bank, as well as all Israeli settlements, which now number more than 200, including those in annexed east Jerusalem.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/has-donald-trump-proposed-a-middle-east-peace-plan-or-terms-of-surrender-for-the-palestinians-277760">Has Donald Trump proposed a Middle East peace plan – or terms of surrender for the Palestinians?</a>

The settlements are home to some 600,000&nbsp;&nbsp;are considered illegal under international law. Immediately after Trump presented the plan&nbsp;flanked by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu,&nbsp;officials said they would swiftly send an annexation bill to the&nbsp;cabinet on Sunday.

But the situation seemed less clear on Friday, after Trump's adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner seemed to row back from initial comments by US ambassador David Friedman that Israel could move ahead with annexation immediately.

Jared said a decision would be best left until a new government has been formed after a general election scheduled for March 2, even though both major parties support it.

Gaza protests, rockets

Clashes between Palestinian protesters and Israeli forces in the West Bank have left at least 30 Palestinians wounded since Tuesday, although the demonstrations have mostly been small.

In Hamas-controlled Gaza, thousands gathered for demonstrations this week. Many more donned badges proclaiming "no to the deal of the century".

There has been some rocket fire from Gaza into on nothing like the scale of barrages launched during multiple flare-ups last year.

Israel carried out on Hamas targets in Gaza early Friday after three rockets were fired the previous evening, causing neither casualties nor damage, the army said.

One rocket was fired on Wednesday evening drawing similar retaliation.

Hamas and Israel have fought three wars since 2008 but over the past year, the Islamists an informal truce with Israel, under which the Jewish state has slightly eased its crippling blockade of Gaza in exchange for calm.

Quest for Arab support

The Palestinians have sought to rally international support against the plan, which they see as illegal and a violation of their rights.

"What we're trying to do here is to get behind us, behind president Mahmud Abbas and his determination to achieve&nbsp;peace," said Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Erekat.

But there was a muted response, even within the Arab world.

Both Egypt and the Gulf Arab states held off on any immediate criticism of their US ally, saying they would study the plan's contents.

Those governments have quietly moved closer to Israel in recent years amid shared hostility towards Iran. Abbas will try to rally opposition at an emergency meeting of the Arab League in Cairo on Saturday.

Israeli police increased their presence in Jerusalem's Old City, ahead of the first Friday prayers at the flashpoint Al-Aqsa mosque since US President Donald Trump unveiled a controversial peace plan.

Israeli police increased their presence in Jerusalem's Old City, ahead of the first Friday prayers at the flashpoint Al-Aqsa mosque since US President Donald Trump unveiled a controversial peace plan. The plan released on Tuesday was seen as heavily biased towards Israel and was angrily rejected by Palestinians, with one of the key bones of contention being its classification of Jerusalem as Israel's "undivided capital." Palestinians have long seen the city's eastern sector, which was occupied by Israel in 1967, as the capital of their future state. At the Al-Aqsa compound in east Jerusalem, a group of Palestinians gathered after dawn prayers and "began a procession with nationalist calls," Israeli police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said. Police "responded and dispersed the gathering," the official added. Thousands of Palestinians were expected to attend the main prayers at noon, which are often a rallying point for demonstrations. The Al-Aqsa mosque is Islam's third holiest is also revered by Jews as the location of their Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD. Rosenfeld said "heightened security" measures would be in place across the Old City and "police units will respond if necessary". The Trump plan gives Israel the green light to annex the strategic Jordan Valley, which 30 per cent of the West Bank, as well as all Israeli settlements, which now number more than 200, including those in annexed east Jerusalem. Also Read: Has Donald Trump proposed a Middle East peace plan – or terms of surrender for the Palestinians? The settlements are home to some 600,000 are considered illegal under international law. Immediately after Trump presented the plan flanked by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, officials said they would swiftly send an annexation bill to the cabinet on Sunday. But the situation seemed less clear on Friday, after Trump's adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner seemed to row back from initial comments by US ambassador David Friedman that Israel could move ahead with annexation immediately. Jared said a decision would be best left until a new government has been formed after a general election scheduled for March 2, even though both major parties support it. Gaza protests, rockets Clashes between Palestinian protesters and Israeli forces in the West Bank have left at least 30 Palestinians wounded since Tuesday, although the demonstrations have mostly been small. In Hamas-controlled Gaza, thousands gathered for demonstrations this week. Many more donned badges proclaiming "no to the deal of the century". There has been some rocket fire from Gaza into on nothing like the scale of barrages launched during multiple flare-ups last year. Israel carried out on Hamas targets in Gaza early Friday after three rockets were fired the previous evening, causing neither casualties nor damage, the army said. One rocket was fired on Wednesday evening drawing similar retaliation. Hamas and Israel have fought three wars since 2008 but over the past year, the Islamists an informal truce with Israel, under which the Jewish state has slightly eased its crippling blockade of Gaza in exchange for calm. Quest for Arab support The Palestinians have sought to rally international support against the plan, which they see as illegal and a violation of their rights. "What we're trying to do here is to get behind us, behind president Mahmud Abbas and his determination to achieve peace," said Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Erekat. But there was a muted response, even within the Arab world. Both Egypt and the Gulf Arab states held off on any immediate criticism of their US ally, saying they would study the plan's contents. Those governments have quietly moved closer to Israel in recent years amid shared hostility towards Iran. Abbas will try to rally opposition at an emergency meeting of the Arab League in Cairo on Saturday.

Israel tightens security for first Friday prayers since Trump plan

A new section of President Donald Trump's signature wall along the <a href="Migrants gather at U.S.-Mexico border for Christmas party">US-Mexico border</a> has been blown over in strong winds, US officials say. Steel panels from the fence in the town of Calexico, California were knocked down on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;Strong winds have damaged Trump yet again, but this time it is the President's precious border wall that was blown over and not his hairpiece.

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Great photos from a SOUTHERN BORDER WALL Briefing with Secretary of Defense, Mark <a href="https://twitter.com/EsperDoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EsperDoD</a>! <a href="https://t.co/rpGHpdoIa6">pic.twitter.com/rpGHpdoIa6</a>
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Steel panels from a <a href="Longest smuggling tunnel discovered under US-Mexico Border; possible connections to Sinaloa cartel">fence bordering</a> the town of Calexico, California were knocked down by gusts of around 48 km/h. According to officials, the concrete used to anchor the 9-meter tall panels in place had not set, causing the collapse of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-frees-36-bn-for-wall-construction-on-mexican-border-247477">border panelling</a>. The wall was part of this administration's construction project to deter illegal immigration across the 3,145 kilometre US-Mexico border.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/build-that-wall-barriers-back-30-years-after-berlin-wall-259802">Build that wall! Barriers back 30 years after Berlin Wall</a>

The day before the wind took with it the wall, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-trump-revives-border-wall-promise-in-iowa-campaign-speech-and-mocks-his-democrat-coworkers-277639">Donald Trump</a> was conducting a campaign event in New Jersey and boasting of the "record speed" with which the border wall is being constructed.&nbsp;The newly installed panels flew off with the wind a day later in Mexicali, a city on the Mexican side of the border. Thankfully, authorities were able to divert traffic from the nearby street and no property damage or injuries have been reported.

Donald Trump had claimed that the steel slats and concrete constituting the border wall was "virtually impenetrable" when visiting a section of the wall in California last year. The project has progressed, albeit slowly due to the multitudes of legal obstacles faced by the Trump administration. They had claimed to have built around 100 miles of brand new border walls, even though most of it was to repair and replace existing structures.

Trump had declared a government-shutdown last February to funnel taxpayers' money into the border wall and later declared a national emergency on the pretext of lax southern border security. US Appeals Court lifted a legal block earlier this month on $3.6 billion in defence funds which the President used for his border wall

A new section of President Donald Trump's signature wall along the US-Mexico border has been blown over in strong winds, US officials say. Steel panels from the fence in the town of Calexico, California were knocked down on Wednesday morning.

A new section of President Donald Trump's signature wall along the US-Mexico border has been blown over in strong winds, US officials say. Steel panels from the fence in the town of Calexico, California were knocked down on Wednesday morning. Strong winds have damaged Trump yet again, but this time it is the President's precious border wall that was blown over and not his hairpiece. Great photos from a SOUTHERN BORDER WALL Briefing with Secretary of Defense, Mark @EsperDoD! pic.twitter.com/rpGHpdoIa6 — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 30, 2020 × Steel panels from a fence bordering the town of Calexico, California were knocked down by gusts of around 48 km/h. According to officials, the concrete used to anchor the 9-meter tall panels in place had not set, causing the collapse of the border panelling. The wall was part of this administration's construction project to deter illegal immigration across the 3,145 kilometre US-Mexico border. Also Read: Build that wall! Barriers back 30 years after Berlin Wall The day before the wind took with it the wall, Donald Trump was conducting a campaign event in New Jersey and boasting of the "record speed" with which the border wall is being constructed. The newly installed panels flew off with the wind a day later in Mexicali, a city on the Mexican side of the border. Thankfully, authorities were able to divert traffic from the nearby street and no property damage or injuries have been reported. Donald Trump had claimed that the steel slats and concrete constituting the border wall was "virtually impenetrable" when visiting a section of the wall in California last year. The project has progressed, albeit slowly due to the multitudes of legal obstacles faced by the Trump administration. They had claimed to have built around 100 miles of brand new border walls, even though most of it was to repair and replace existing structures. Trump had declared a government-shutdown last February to funnel taxpayers' money into the border wall and later declared a national emergency on the pretext of lax southern border security. US Appeals Court lifted a legal block earlier this month on $3.6 billion in defence funds which the President used for his border wall

Gone with the wind; Trump's 'impenetrable' border wall blown away by strong winds

The US presidential race begins in earnest Monday when Iowans take the first votes in the process that ultimately determines which Democrat will face incumbent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-trump-revives-border-wall-promise-in-iowa-campaign-speech-and-mocks-his-democrat-coworkers-277639">Donald Trump</a> in November.

Here are five questions on key aspects of a crowded race that remains wide open ahead of the February 3 Iowa caucuses.

Will septuagenarians rise?&nbsp;

As campaigning ramped up last year, Democrats thirsted for new voices and faces that would ensure the nation's growing diversity is better reflected in the presidential race.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-trump-revives-border-wall-promise-in-iowa-campaign-speech-and-mocks-his-democrat-coworkers-277639">Donald Trump revives border wall promise in Iowa campaign speech, mocks Democrats</a>

More than two dozen candidates with various backgrounds, ethnicities, ages and orientations piled into the battle to see who challenges 73-year-old real estate magnate Trump.

But with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-trump-revives-border-wall-promise-in-iowa-campaign-speech-and-mocks-his-democrat-coworkers-277639">Iowa</a> looming, four white candidates in their seventies occupy the top spots in national polls.

Former vice president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-presidential-elections-2020-which-democratic-contender-stands-where-277723">Joe Biden</a>, 77, is the national frontrunner, followed by far-left independent Senator <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-presidential-elections-2020-which-democratic-contender-stands-where-277723">Bernie Sanders</a>, 78, and progressive Senator <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-presidential-elections-2020-which-democratic-contender-stands-where-277723">Elizabeth Warren</a>, 70.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-presidential-elections-2020-which-democratic-contender-stands-where-277723">US Presidential elections 2020: Which Democratic contender stands where</a>

Just this week, former New York mayor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-candidate-bloomberg-vows-to-back-israel-takes-dig-at-sanders-276810">Michael Bloomberg</a>, who turns 78 in February, climbed into fourth place in the Realclearpolitics polling average.

The billionaire businessman surpassed former Indiana mayor Pete Buttigieg, who at 38 is the youngest hopeful in the race.&nbsp;

Bloomberg entered the campaign late and is not contesting Iowa, where Buttigieg is in the top tier challenging rivals twice his age.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-candidate-bloomberg-vows-to-back-israel-takes-dig-at-sanders-276810">US candidate Bloomberg vows to back Israel, takes dig at Sanders</a>

Radical party, or realist?&nbsp;

Who is best positioned to defeat Trump?

Consumed by this central question, Democratic voters must choose among favorites in a field sharply divided between radical progressives and more moderate realists.&nbsp;

It is currently the party's main quandary, underscored by The New York Times as it explained why, for the first time in its 169-year history, its editorial board broke with tradition to endorse not just a single candidate, but two: Warren, representing the more "radical" faction, and Amy Klobuchar, a 59-year-old senator in the "realistic" camp.&nbsp;

Biden and Buttigieg, like Klobuchar, take a more centrist approach while Sanders, a Democratic socialist seeking to win the nomination of a party he has never joined, calls for nothing less than political "revolution."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trumps-impeachment-democrats-lay-out-abuse-of-power-case-276260/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Four states, four winners?

With working-class voters, Midwest farmers, African-Americans or Hispanics seeing different strengths among each of the candidates, a different candidate could potentially win each of the first four early-voting states.

Iowa and New Hampshire (which votes second, on February 11) are largely rural and homogenous. Nevada (February 22) has a large Latino population, while in South Carolina (February 29), black voters represent a majority of the Democratic electorate.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/democratic-debate-in-iowa-274401">Democratic Debate in Iowa</a>

Brokered convention?

Given such a tight race, it is possible that no candidate arrives at the Democratic National Convention on July 13 with enough delegates in hand to claim victory.

Democrats and Republicans both use a complicated process involving pledged delegates proportioned according to primary and caucus results across the nation.

To carry the Democratic torch in the election, one must win a majority of the 3,979 delegates.

If no candidate has a majority, pledged delegates would become free to vote for someone else on the convention's second ballot if their candidate drops out.

Complicating matters, if the convention has no outright winner after the first ballot, more than 700 "superdelegates" -- party officials and insiders who are automatically made delegates -- would then be eligible to vote in selecting the nominee.

Impeachment impact?

The Senate's Trump impeachment trial has had an unprecedented impact on the campaign, particularly in Iowa.

Four senators running for president -- Sanders, Warren, Klobuchar and low-polling Michael Bennet -- spent most of the last two weeks pinned to Washington, denied the personal contact with Iowa voters so vital before the caucuses.

Trump's impeachment by the House of Representatives on December 18 has not changed the political fault lines in an extremely divided country.

About nine in 10 Republicans support the president, and he is expected to be acquitted by the Senate's Republican majority.

The US presidential race begins in earnest Monday when Iowans take the first votes in the process that ultimately determines which Democrat will face incumbent Donald Trump in November.

The US presidential race begins in earnest Monday when Iowans take the first votes in the process that ultimately determines which Democrat will face incumbent Donald Trump in November. Here are five questions on key aspects of a crowded race that remains wide open ahead of the February 3 Iowa caucuses. Will septuagenarians rise? As campaigning ramped up last year, Democrats thirsted for new voices and faces that would ensure the nation's growing diversity is better reflected in the presidential race. Also read: Donald Trump revives border wall promise in Iowa campaign speech, mocks Democrats More than two dozen candidates with various backgrounds, ethnicities, ages and orientations piled into the battle to see who challenges 73-year-old real estate magnate Trump. But with Iowa looming, four white candidates in their seventies occupy the top spots in national polls. Former vice president Joe Biden, 77, is the national frontrunner, followed by far-left independent Senator Bernie Sanders, 78, and progressive Senator Elizabeth Warren, 70. Also read: US Presidential elections 2020: Which Democratic contender stands where Just this week, former New York mayor Michael Bloomberg, who turns 78 in February, climbed into fourth place in the Realclearpolitics polling average. The billionaire businessman surpassed former Indiana mayor Pete Buttigieg, who at 38 is the youngest hopeful in the race. Bloomberg entered the campaign late and is not contesting Iowa, where Buttigieg is in the top tier challenging rivals twice his age. Also read: US candidate Bloomberg vows to back Israel, takes dig at Sanders Radical party, or realist? Who is best positioned to defeat Trump? Consumed by this central question, Democratic voters must choose among favorites in a field sharply divided between radical progressives and more moderate realists. It is currently the party's main quandary, underscored by The New York Times as it explained why, for the first time in its 169-year history, its editorial board broke with tradition to endorse not just a single candidate, but two: Warren, representing the more "radical" faction, and Amy Klobuchar, a 59-year-old senator in the "realistic" camp. Biden and Buttigieg, like Klobuchar, take a more centrist approach while Sanders, a Democratic socialist seeking to win the nomination of a party he has never joined, calls for nothing less than political "revolution." Four states, four winners? With working-class voters, Midwest farmers, African-Americans or Hispanics seeing different strengths among each of the candidates, a different candidate could potentially win each of the first four early-voting states. Iowa and New Hampshire (which votes second, on February 11) are largely rural and homogenous. Nevada (February 22) has a large Latino population, while in South Carolina (February 29), black voters represent a majority of the Democratic electorate. Also see: Democratic Debate in Iowa Brokered convention? Given such a tight race, it is possible that no candidate arrives at the Democratic National Convention on July 13 with enough delegates in hand to claim victory. Democrats and Republicans both use a complicated process involving pledged delegates proportioned according to primary and caucus results across the nation. To carry the Democratic torch in the election, one must win a majority of the 3,979 delegates. If no candidate has a majority, pledged delegates would become free to vote for someone else on the convention's second ballot if their candidate drops out. Complicating matters, if the convention has no outright winner after the first ballot, more than 700 "superdelegates" -- party officials and insiders who are automatically made delegates -- would then be eligible to vote in selecting the nominee. Impeachment impact? The Senate's Trump impeachment trial has had an unprecedented impact on the campaign, particularly in Iowa. Four senators running for president -- Sanders, Warren, Klobuchar and low-polling Michael Bennet -- spent most of the last two weeks pinned to Washington, denied the personal contact with Iowa voters so vital before the caucuses. Trump's impeachment by the House of Representatives on December 18 has not changed the political fault lines in an extremely divided country. About nine in 10 Republicans support the president, and he is expected to be acquitted by the Senate's Republican majority.

Five questions on the Democratic White House nomination process

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-says-will-continue-to-strengthen-deep-friendship-with-india-277448">Israeli</a> aircraft struck Hamas targets in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-air-strikes-on-gaza-after-rocket-attack-270314">Gaza</a> Strip early Friday in response to new rocket fire from the blockaded territory, the army said.

Three rockets were fired at&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;overnight without causing any casualties. Two were intercepted by air defences, a statement said.

Israel&nbsp;swiftly retaliated against Hamas, the Islamist movement which rules Gaza and which&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;generally holds responsible for all rocket fire from the territory, regardless of who launches it.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-air-strikes-on-gaza-after-rocket-attack-270314">Israel launches air strikes on Gaza after rocket attack</a>

The military struck "Hamas targets in the south of the Gaza Strip", the army said.

Israel&nbsp;has deployed additional troops to the Gaza border area since US President Donald Trump unveiled a controversial new peace plan on Tuesday that was angrily rejected by the Palestinians.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-israels-iron-dome-missile-defence-system-blunts-rockets-from-gaza-261860#israel-employs-the-iron-dome-261829">How Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system blunts rockets from Gaza</a>

One rocket was fired from Gaza on Wednesday evening, again drawing retaliatory strikes against Hamas targets in the south of Gaza.

Hamas has over the past year gradually shaped an informal truce with&nbsp;Israel, under which the Jewish state has slightly eased its crippling blockade of the enclave in exchange for calm.

But&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;in November assassinated a senior leader of the Islamic Jihad militant group in Gaza, sparking a flare-up in which 36 Palestinians were killed. No Israelis died.

Over two days, Islamic Jihad fired some 450 rockets towards&nbsp;Israel, which unusually largely confined its reprisals to Hamas's more radical ally.

Israeli aircraft struck Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip early Friday in response to new rocket fire from the blockaded territory, the army said. Three rockets were fired at Israel overnight without causing any casualties.

Israeli aircraft struck Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip early Friday in response to new rocket fire from the blockaded territory, the army said. Three rockets were fired at Israel overnight without causing any casualties. Two were intercepted by air defences, a statement said. Israel swiftly retaliated against Hamas, the Islamist movement which rules Gaza and which Israel generally holds responsible for all rocket fire from the territory, regardless of who launches it. Also read: Israel launches air strikes on Gaza after rocket attack The military struck "Hamas targets in the south of the Gaza Strip", the army said. Israel has deployed additional troops to the Gaza border area since US President Donald Trump unveiled a controversial new peace plan on Tuesday that was angrily rejected by the Palestinians. Also read: How Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system blunts rockets from Gaza One rocket was fired from Gaza on Wednesday evening, again drawing retaliatory strikes against Hamas targets in the south of Gaza. Hamas has over the past year gradually shaped an informal truce with Israel, under which the Jewish state has slightly eased its crippling blockade of the enclave in exchange for calm. But Israel in November assassinated a senior leader of the Islamic Jihad militant group in Gaza, sparking a flare-up in which 36 Palestinians were killed. No Israelis died. Over two days, Islamic Jihad fired some 450 rockets towards Israel, which unusually largely confined its reprisals to Hamas's more radical ally.

Israel strikes Hamas targets after new Gaza rocket fire

Today is the second day of question and answer session at Donald Trump's impeachment trial and once again the issue of new witnesses and executive privileges dominated the proceedings. Lead impeachment manager Adam Shiff told the Senate that the trial without new witnesses would reflect poorly on the body.

Trump Impeachment: Witnesses and Prez privilege dominate Q&A

With Iowa caucus, people from the United States and across the world will get a sense of who are losing their chances to be a possible final contender to challenge US President Donald Trump for the Presidency. There will be important wins, and also, heartbreaks from what this time is known as a very 'crowded' race of Democratic challengers. On February 3, Iowa caucus will be held and even though, the state might not be a good predictor of the overall trends because of being less diverse, candidates will certainly gain and lose momentum for the primaries and caucuses ahead. For Democrats, Iowa is definitely significant as its last four nominees have all won caucuses from this part. At this juncture, let's look at which democratic candidate is leading the race of nomination and the ones who can catch up.

1. Joe Biden

Joe Biden, who was the Vice President during the Obama administration, started the Democratic Presidential race as the frontrunner. He still leads in most of the polls. In the last democratic debate, Biden also avoided sharp attacks from his Democratic rivals and was able to successfully elaborate his plans on foreign policy and health care, which worked in his favour. Biden is still voters’ first choice among other Democratic contenders, with support ranging from 20 to 35 per cent as per various polls. He is also popular among black voters, who remain crucial supporters of Democrats.

2. &nbsp;Bernie Sanders

Despite being the oldest candidate, Bernie Sanders' persuasive and energetic campaign has shed away the health-related concerns in the minds of voters, at least for now. Sanders and the other liberal candidate's, Elizabeth Warren, spar was the talking point during the January debate wherein Sanders flatly denied that he told Warren that a woman could not beat Trump in 2016 elections. This controversy didn't manage to cause any harm to Sanders and he took on Biden for supporting the war in Iraq in 2002-03. Sanders also reiterated his 'Medicare-for-all' policy. He became the first-choice Democratic candidate for the US elections after the debate as he garnered 20 per cent support as compared to Biden's 19 per cent, as per Ipsos poll released on January 16. According to most polls, Sanders has improved his position from last few months and is now in No 2 spot in the Democratic race after Biden. The gap between Biden and Sanders is also narrowing.

3. Elizabeth Warren

Elizabeth Warren was undoubtedly the best performer in the January debate. In the debate, Warren was once again articulate in her arguments and convincing on the healthcare policy. Warren also reiterated that Sanders doubted women’s electability in the 2016 polls and pointed out that women on the stage (she and Amy Klobuchar) never lost any election. Despite her consistent performance, Warren is still behind her leftist rival Sanders in terms of public support. The good thing with Warren is that she has plans for most of the things, ranging from anti-corruption law, foreign policy to child-care and education.

Warren is currently Americans third choice and her popularity has taken a hit since October, when she came very close to Biden, as per surveys by IPSOS, ABC News and Fox News show. However, a poll by YouGov suggests Warren is ahead of Sanders by a whisker and the trends also predict a close fight between Democrats liberal flag-bearers.

4. Michael Bloomberg

The latest and one of the oldest entrants in the Democratic race is in the list of top five candidates despite not participating in any debate yet. Interestingly, when the other candidates were debating in Iowa, Bloomberg’s campaign was busy tweeting live to grab the spotlight. One of the major reasons for the billionaire and three-time New York mayor’s rise in support is advertisements in TV, radio and digital platforms, for which he already spent $248 million. Bloomberg currently holds number 4 spot ahead of Pete Buttigieg, with voters backing ranging from 7 to 10 per cent, as per polls by ABC News, YouGov and Ipsos. &nbsp;

5. Pete Buttigieg

Buttigieg’s profile speaks for itself: a Harvard graduate, military veteran, very young and a charismatic speaker. The 38-year-old openly gay contender has done most things right, but still is way behind the top three candidates. Buttigieg’s performance in the last debate was neither disappointing nor exemplary, but he failed to grab the spotlight. After the debate, Buttigieg’s support remains stagnant or declining, oscillating from 4 to 9 per cent, which is a blow to his nomination’s chances.

6. Amy Klobuchar

Amy Klobuchar’s campaign has found some momentum from the strong performance in the last debate. She took on Sanders and Warren on healthcare and emphasised that her experience in Senate is more suitable for the Presidency than Buttigieg who was a naval intelligence officer in Afghanistan. Klobuchar’s campaign focussed on tackling climate change, some of which include big investments in green infrastructure, and cutting down emissions. So far, most of the polls show Klobuchar trailing behind the top tier candidates and her campaign needs the push in order to garner the 15 per cent required support from Iowa. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

With Iowa caucus, people from the United States and across the world will get a sense of who are losing their chances to be a possible final contender to challenge US President Donald Trump for the Presidency.

With Iowa caucus, people from the United States and across the world will get a sense of who are losing their chances to be a possible final contender to challenge US President Donald Trump for the Presidency. There will be important wins, and also, heartbreaks from what this time is known as a very 'crowded' race of Democratic challengers. On February 3, Iowa caucus will be held and even though, the state might not be a good predictor of the overall trends because of being less diverse, candidates will certainly gain and lose momentum for the primaries and caucuses ahead. For Democrats, Iowa is definitely significant as its last four nominees have all won caucuses from this part. At this juncture, let's look at which democratic candidate is leading the race of nomination and the ones who can catch up. 1. Joe Biden Joe Biden, who was the Vice President during the Obama administration, started the Democratic Presidential race as the frontrunner. He still leads in most of the polls. In the last democratic debate, Biden also avoided sharp attacks from his Democratic rivals and was able to successfully elaborate his plans on foreign policy and health care, which worked in his favour. Biden is still voters’ first choice among other Democratic contenders, with support ranging from 20 to 35 per cent as per various polls. He is also popular among black voters, who remain crucial supporters of Democrats. 2. Bernie Sanders Despite being the oldest candidate, Bernie Sanders' persuasive and energetic campaign has shed away the health-related concerns in the minds of voters, at least for now. Sanders and the other liberal candidate's, Elizabeth Warren, spar was the talking point during the January debate wherein Sanders flatly denied that he told Warren that a woman could not beat Trump in 2016 elections. This controversy didn't manage to cause any harm to Sanders and he took on Biden for supporting the war in Iraq in 2002-03. Sanders also reiterated his 'Medicare-for-all' policy. He became the first-choice Democratic candidate for the US elections after the debate as he garnered 20 per cent support as compared to Biden's 19 per cent, as per Ipsos poll released on January 16. According to most polls, Sanders has improved his position from last few months and is now in No 2 spot in the Democratic race after Biden. The gap between Biden and Sanders is also narrowing. 3. Elizabeth Warren Elizabeth Warren was undoubtedly the best performer in the January debate. In the debate, Warren was once again articulate in her arguments and convincing on the healthcare policy. Warren also reiterated that Sanders doubted women’s electability in the 2016 polls and pointed out that women on the stage (she and Amy Klobuchar) never lost any election. Despite her consistent performance, Warren is still behind her leftist rival Sanders in terms of public support. The good thing with Warren is that she has plans for most of the things, ranging from anti-corruption law, foreign policy to child-care and education. Warren is currently Americans third choice and her popularity has taken a hit since October, when she came very close to Biden, as per surveys by IPSOS, ABC News and Fox News show. However, a poll by YouGov suggests Warren is ahead of Sanders by a whisker and the trends also predict a close fight between Democrats liberal flag-bearers. 4. Michael Bloomberg The latest and one of the oldest entrants in the Democratic race is in the list of top five candidates despite not participating in any debate yet. Interestingly, when the other candidates were debating in Iowa, Bloomberg’s campaign was busy tweeting live to grab the spotlight. One of the major reasons for the billionaire and three-time New York mayor’s rise in support is advertisements in TV, radio and digital platforms, for which he already spent $248 million. Bloomberg currently holds number 4 spot ahead of Pete Buttigieg, with voters backing ranging from 7 to 10 per cent, as per polls by ABC News, YouGov and Ipsos. 5. Pete Buttigieg Buttigieg’s profile speaks for itself: a Harvard graduate, military veteran, very young and a charismatic speaker. The 38-year-old openly gay contender has done most things right, but still is way behind the top three candidates. Buttigieg’s performance in the last debate was neither disappointing nor exemplary, but he failed to grab the spotlight. After the debate, Buttigieg’s support remains stagnant or declining, oscillating from 4 to 9 per cent, which is a blow to his nomination’s chances. 6. Amy Klobuchar Amy Klobuchar’s campaign has found some momentum from the strong performance in the last debate. She took on Sanders and Warren on healthcare and emphasised that her experience in Senate is more suitable for the Presidency than Buttigieg who was a naval intelligence officer in Afghanistan. Klobuchar’s campaign focussed on tackling climate change, some of which include big investments in green infrastructure, and cutting down emissions. So far, most of the polls show Klobuchar trailing behind the top tier candidates and her campaign needs the push in order to garner the 15 per cent required support from Iowa. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

US Presidential elections 2020: Which Democratic contender stands where

International Summits, secret negotiations, UN resolutions and several failed peace plans - &nbsp;those words sum up the story of the Israel-Palestine peace process.

As many as three American Presidents have tried to broker peace, but all of them have failed. Donald Trump is the fourth President to try and find a resolution to what seems like an irresolvable problem.&nbsp;

But even before he could finish taking a victory lap with Netanyahu, critics have ripped apart his peace deal - it was deal that was dead on arrival.

The answer to that question is quite clear, none of the parties is even willing to concede an inch during the negotiations, and with each round of negotiations - America's position to influence both parties has only declined.

At the core of this dispute is a deep mistrust between Israel and Palestine. The continuous violence and conflicts between both parties have now become the status quo. Between March and November last year, Israel forces killed 189 Palestinian demonstrators. 
 
WATCH:&nbsp;

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More than five thousand were hurt by live fire. Both sides actually believe that managing the violence is a much better option than to taking a risk to negotiate peace.

Moreover, there is no viable, realistic deal that both sides would accept. Both sides claim Jerusalem as their capital. Dividing it between the two sides is tough. Jerusalem is the home to Jewish and Muslim holy sites, and growing Israeli settlements around the city will make any division hard.

Similarly, there is no agreement on where to draw the borders at the west bank. There more seven million Palestinians who want a right to return. If Israel was to absorb that, then the jews will become a minority.

And finally the security issue? For Israel, arming Palestine is a security threat - they fear Palestinians could turn hostile at any time and join hands with rivals like Iran.

Trump's negotiating tactics have only reduced the likelihood of a deal. America's decision to side with Israel has effectively pushed the Palestinians away from the negotiating table.

Under Trump, America has moved the American embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and recognised the contested Golan Heights as part of Israel. Furthermore, the US termed Israeli settlements in the west bank as legal.

The US has closed a Palestinian Mission in Washington and aid to Palestinian refugees has also been cut.

Trump offered a peace plan without consulting any Palestinian leader.&nbsp;

Its time for America to face the truth. In more than 25 years, it has failed to secure peace between Israel and Palestine. And Trump's deal only heightens tensions.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

International Summits, secret negotiations, UN resolutions and several failed peace plans - those words sum up the story of the Israel-Palestine peace process. As many as three American Presidents have tried to broker peace, but all of them have failed.

International Summits, secret negotiations, UN resolutions and several failed peace plans - those words sum up the story of the Israel-Palestine peace process. As many as three American Presidents have tried to broker peace, but all of them have failed. Donald Trump is the fourth President to try and find a resolution to what seems like an irresolvable problem. But even before he could finish taking a victory lap with Netanyahu, critics have ripped apart his peace deal - it was deal that was dead on arrival. The answer to that question is quite clear, none of the parties is even willing to concede an inch during the negotiations, and with each round of negotiations - America's position to influence both parties has only declined. At the core of this dispute is a deep mistrust between Israel and Palestine. The continuous violence and conflicts between both parties have now become the status quo. Between March and November last year, Israel forces killed 189 Palestinian demonstrators. WATCH: × More than five thousand were hurt by live fire. Both sides actually believe that managing the violence is a much better option than to taking a risk to negotiate peace. Moreover, there is no viable, realistic deal that both sides would accept. Both sides claim Jerusalem as their capital. Dividing it between the two sides is tough. Jerusalem is the home to Jewish and Muslim holy sites, and growing Israeli settlements around the city will make any division hard. Similarly, there is no agreement on where to draw the borders at the west bank. There more seven million Palestinians who want a right to return. If Israel was to absorb that, then the jews will become a minority. And finally the security issue? For Israel, arming Palestine is a security threat - they fear Palestinians could turn hostile at any time and join hands with rivals like Iran. Trump's negotiating tactics have only reduced the likelihood of a deal. America's decision to side with Israel has effectively pushed the Palestinians away from the negotiating table. Under Trump, America has moved the American embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and recognised the contested Golan Heights as part of Israel. Furthermore, the US termed Israeli settlements in the west bank as legal. The US has closed a Palestinian Mission in Washington and aid to Palestinian refugees has also been cut. Trump offered a peace plan without consulting any Palestinian leader. Its time for America to face the truth. In more than 25 years, it has failed to secure peace between Israel and Palestine. And Trump's deal only heightens tensions. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

Wion Edit: Why peace remains elusive in West Asia

Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-says-will-continue-to-strengthen-deep-friendship-with-india-277448">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> on Thursday hailed US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deal-signed-amid-trumps-impeachment-277533">Donald Trump</a>'s Middle East peace plan as a new opportunity after flying to Moscow to discuss it with President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-fund-in-vitro-fertilization-to-boom-to-battle-population-slump-277550">Vladimir&nbsp;Putin</a>.

"I think there's a new and perhaps unique opportunity here," said the Israeli premier, who stood alongside Trump at the White House when the plan was announced Tuesday and called it a victory for Israel.

Trump's plan angered Palestinians by proposing Israel retain control over Jerusalem as its "undivided capital" and giving the green light to annex Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jared-kushner-meet-the-man-behind-middle-east-peace-plan-277295">Jared Kushner: Meet the man behind Middle-East peace plan</a>

"I'd like to speak to you and hear your insights and see how we can combine all our forces for security and peace," Netanyahu told&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;at the start of their Kremlin meeting.

"You're actually the first leader I'm speaking with after my visit to Washington about President Trump's Deal of the Century," he added.

The Russian leader did not mention the peace plan in his public remarks.

Watch:&nbsp;Trump's Middle East 'Peace Plan' rejected by Palestine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-middle-east-peace-plan-rejected-by-palestine-277357/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Netanyahu, facing graft charges, is contesting March elections and hoping the proposal will boost his re-election chances.

The March 2 vote is Israel's third in less than a year, with polls suggesting the prime minister's rightwing Likud is again neck-and-neck with the centrist Blue and White party led by ex-military chief Benny Gantz.

Netanyahu was visiting Russia on the same day that it released a young US-Israeli woman jailed for drug trafficking over a small amount of cannabis found in her luggage as she transited a Moscow airport.&nbsp;

Her case caused an outcry in Israel and her release came after Netanyahu pleaded her case with&nbsp;Putin, who issued a pardon.&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday hailed US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan as a new opportunity after flying to Moscow to discuss it with President Vladimir Putin.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday hailed US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan as a new opportunity after flying to Moscow to discuss it with President Vladimir Putin. "I think there's a new and perhaps unique opportunity here," said the Israeli premier, who stood alongside Trump at the White House when the plan was announced Tuesday and called it a victory for Israel. Trump's plan angered Palestinians by proposing Israel retain control over Jerusalem as its "undivided capital" and giving the green light to annex Jewish settlements in the West Bank. Also read: Jared Kushner: Meet the man behind Middle-East peace plan "I'd like to speak to you and hear your insights and see how we can combine all our forces for security and peace," Netanyahu told Putin at the start of their Kremlin meeting. "You're actually the first leader I'm speaking with after my visit to Washington about President Trump's Deal of the Century," he added. The Russian leader did not mention the peace plan in his public remarks. Watch: Trump's Middle East 'Peace Plan' rejected by Palestine Netanyahu, facing graft charges, is contesting March elections and hoping the proposal will boost his re-election chances. The March 2 vote is Israel's third in less than a year, with polls suggesting the prime minister's rightwing Likud is again neck-and-neck with the centrist Blue and White party led by ex-military chief Benny Gantz. Netanyahu was visiting Russia on the same day that it released a young US-Israeli woman jailed for drug trafficking over a small amount of cannabis found in her luggage as she transited a Moscow airport. Her case caused an outcry in Israel and her release came after Netanyahu pleaded her case with Putin, who issued a pardon.

Middle East peace plan a new opportunity: Netanyahu to Putin

The US President Donald Trump has formally signed a new trade pact with Mexico and Canada bringing his campaign promise to replace the three countries exiting deal closure to reality.

Deal signed amid Trump's Impeachment

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-confirms-person-to-person-spread-of-the-new-virus-as-fourth-death-reported-275590">China confirms person-to-person spread of new virus as fourth death reported 
 
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The outbreak has spread from the central city of Wuhan to cities including Beijing and Shanghai, with more than 200 cases reported so far.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-confirms-person-to-person-spread-of-the-new-virus-as-fourth-death-reported-275590">READ MORE</a>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-impeachment-trial-to-begin-in-us-senate-his-defence-team-calls-for-immediate-acquittal-275599">Trump's impeachment trial to begin in US Senate, his defence team calls for immediate acquittal</a>

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9707d11a-fc4c-4e0b-a653-b21f7d0605c0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/trump.jpg" /> 
The Democratic-led House of Representatives' had charged Trump with the abuse of power and the obstruction of Congress. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-impeachment-trial-to-begin-in-us-senate-his-defence-team-calls-for-immediate-acquittal-275599">READ MORE</a>

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/business-economy/zomato-acquires-ubers-food-delivery-business-in-an-all-stock-deal-275592">Zomato acquires Uber's food delivery business in an all-stock deal</a>

<img alt="zomato" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7896dda-a5c8-49f4-a5e1-a3c5230014b2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/zomato.jpg" /> 
Zomato has purchased this app in an all-stock deal, which will give the Uber a 10% stake in the company.&nbsp;<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/business-economy/zomato-acquires-ubers-food-delivery-business-in-an-all-stock-deal-275592">READ MORE</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sharp-slwodown-in-india-a-drag-on-world-economy-275527">Sharp slowdown in India drag on world economy, says IMF</a> 
 
<img alt="IMF" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9427c43d-b0a9-47a6-990f-023a17c72326" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMF.jpg" /> 
 
The sharp drop for India "accounts for the lion's share of the downward revisions," the IMF said. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sharp-slwodown-in-india-a-drag-on-world-economy-275527">READ MORE</a> 
 
<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-china-set-to-gain-from-disruption-in-auto-industry-275555">WION Edit: China set to gain from disruption in auto Industry 
 
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China wants to become a global hub for batteries and electric vehicles, and it already controls more than 60 per cent of the global market share in batteries. <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-china-set-to-gain-from-disruption-in-auto-industry-275555">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-wobbles-leave-top-four-chase-wide-open-275591">Premier League wobbles leave top four chase wide open</a> 
 
<img alt="EPL" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="52b0c2ca-5405-43fb-b2ee-a06adf38e8b5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EPL.jpg" /> 
A slump in form from Frank Lampard's men has left the door open for Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal to secure a much-needed return to Europe's top competition. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-wobbles-leave-top-four-chase-wide-open-275591">READ MORE</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/harry-potter-and-the-cursed-child-to-now-have-autism-friendly-performance-275549">Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to now have autism-friendly performance</a>

<img alt="Harry potter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab2ac2db-ca78-4a50-8e45-f7c6e121a2c3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Harry%20potter.jpg" /> 
Those interested can buy tickets for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child for March 1 when the efficiency will unveil. The same was announced by means of social media. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/harry-potter-and-the-cursed-child-to-now-have-autism-friendly-performance-275549">READ MORE</a>

&nbsp;

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. China confirms person-to-person spread of new virus as fourth death reported The outbreak has spread from the central city of Wuhan to cities including Beijing and Shanghai, with more than 200 cases reported so far.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. China confirms person-to-person spread of new virus as fourth death reported The outbreak has spread from the central city of Wuhan to cities including Beijing and Shanghai, with more than 200 cases reported so far. READ MORE Trump's impeachment trial to begin in US Senate, his defence team calls for immediate acquittal The Democratic-led House of Representatives' had charged Trump with the abuse of power and the obstruction of Congress. READ MORE Zomato acquires Uber's food delivery business in an all-stock deal Zomato has purchased this app in an all-stock deal, which will give the Uber a 10% stake in the company. READ MORE Sharp slowdown in India drag on world economy, says IMF The sharp drop for India "accounts for the lion's share of the downward revisions," the IMF said. READ MORE WION Edit: China set to gain from disruption in auto Industry China wants to become a global hub for batteries and electric vehicles, and it already controls more than 60 per cent of the global market share in batteries. READ MORE Premier League wobbles leave top four chase wide open A slump in form from Frank Lampard's men has left the door open for Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal to secure a much-needed return to Europe's top competition. READ MORE Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to now have autism-friendly performance Those interested can buy tickets for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child for March 1 when the efficiency will unveil. The same was announced by means of social media. READ MORE

Morning News Brief: January 21, 2020

The White House has barred John Bolton's manuscript and said that it cannot be released because the manuscript outlines conversations US President Donald Trump had with him that he would like to continue withholding aid to Ukraine until the Ukrainian authorities conduct investigations into Democrats, including former Vice President Joe Biden, one of Trump’s top 2020 rivals, and Mr Biden’s son.

White House blocks Bolton's book, Contains classified information

US President Donald Trump is expected to be in India in the last week of February and travel destination is possibly Gujarat. The state government has begun preparations for his celebratory welcome. President Trump is also expected to visit the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue at a height of 182 metres, located on a river, located opposite the Sardar Sarovar Dam on river Narmada. India - US del is also expected during the visit.

US President Donald Trump to visit India, India -US deal on cards

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-more-japanese-evacuated-from-china-virus-epicentre-death-toll-climbs-to-170-277434">Coronavirus: More Japanese evacuated from China virus epicentre; death toll climbs to 170</a>

<img alt="CAA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="937ba010-e277-4fb3-8bd4-fa64aa2e40cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/CAA.jpg" />

Chinese health authorities said there were 7,711 confirmed cases of infection as of the end of Wednesday, mostly in Hubei province where the death toll rose by 37 to 162.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-more-japanese-evacuated-from-china-virus-epicentre-death-toll-climbs-to-170-277434">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-white-house-seek-to-quash-bolton-testimony-at-senate-trial-277433">Trump, White House seek to quash Bolton testimony at Senate trial</a>

<img alt="trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8d1ce50-b66f-4bf4-a87e-f64f74429647" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/trump_1.jpg" />

Trump called on Republicans to reject a push for witnesses when the issue comes up for a vote on Friday and blasted Bolton.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-white-house-seek-to-quash-bolton-testimony-at-senate-trial-277433">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vote-on-caa-resolution-delayed-in-european-union-parliament-new-delhi-lauds-friends-of-india-277435">Vote on CAA resolution delayed in European Union Parliament; New Delhi lauds friends of India</a>

<img alt="CAA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="47e15c0f-a09b-4138-87a6-f6d63d2dec71" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_5.jpg" />

The European People's Party group or EPP group in a move called for the delaying the vote. The move was voted on and passed with 271 in favour, 199 against and 13 abstentions.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vote-on-caa-resolution-delayed-in-european-union-parliament-new-delhi-lauds-friends-of-india-277435">READ MORE</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-various-failed-west-asia-peace-deals-of-america-277422/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/hate-speech-is-not-free-speech-277298">Opinion: Hate speech is not free speech</a>

<img alt="hate speech" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ffc7f3a7-28ce-41e4-8f44-df8237aab376" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_5.jpg" />

The right to defend one’s idea should not end up vilifying the other community.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/hate-speech-is-not-free-speech-277298">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shah-rukh-khans-cousin-from-pakistan-former-district-councilor-noor-jehan-passes-away-277392">Shah Rukh Khan's cousin from Pakistan, former district councilor Noor Jehan passes away</a>

<img alt="Shah rukh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="79e833f2-2ff7-45ba-8402-b3396578e590" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_3.jpg" />

Khan's paternal sister had been politically active in Pakistan and has also served as a district and town councillor previously.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shah-rukh-khans-cousin-from-pakistan-former-district-councilor-noor-jehan-passes-away-277392">READ MORE</a>

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. Coronavirus: More Japanese evacuated from China virus epicentre; death toll climbs to 170 Chinese health authorities said there were 7,711 confirmed cases of infection as of the end of Wednesday, mostly in Hubei province where the death toll rose by 37 to 162.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. Coronavirus: More Japanese evacuated from China virus epicentre; death toll climbs to 170 Chinese health authorities said there were 7,711 confirmed cases of infection as of the end of Wednesday, mostly in Hubei province where the death toll rose by 37 to 162.READ MORE Trump, White House seek to quash Bolton testimony at Senate trial Trump called on Republicans to reject a push for witnesses when the issue comes up for a vote on Friday and blasted Bolton.READ MORE Vote on CAA resolution delayed in European Union Parliament; New Delhi lauds friends of India The European People's Party group or EPP group in a move called for the delaying the vote. The move was voted on and passed with 271 in favour, 199 against and 13 abstentions.READ MORE Opinion: Hate speech is not free speech The right to defend one’s idea should not end up vilifying the other community.READ MORE Shah Rukh Khan's cousin from Pakistan, former district councilor Noor Jehan passes away Khan's paternal sister had been politically active in Pakistan and has also served as a district and town councillor previously.READ MORE

Morning News Brief: Coronavirus death toll climbs to 170, Bolton testimony at Senate trial and more

Trump says his plan for West Asia will ensure peace for 80 years. But his peace deal was rejected within hours of the announcement. Trump's bias for Israel was display on Tuesday. WION'S Palki tells you why Palestinians are unhappy with Trump's proposals.

Gravitas: Trump's West Asia Plan: Dead on Arrival

In more than 25 years, 3 Presidents of the U.S. have failed to achieve a peace deal in West Asia. Donald Trump is the 4th American President to try - and his peace deal has been already rejected by Palestine. WION'S Palki tells you why peace remains elusive in West Asia.

WION Edit: Why peace remains elusive in West Asia

US President Donald Trump's peace plan for West Asia delights Israel but fails to recognise Palestinian sovereign ambition.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-unveils-middle-east-peace-plan-jerusalem-to-be-undivided-capital-277163">Also Read: Trump unveils Middle East peace plan; Jerusalem to be undivided capital</a>

The plan attaches nearly impossible conditions for granting the Palestinians their hoped-for state that sides with Israel on borders, the status of Jerusalem and Jewish settlements.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-israeli-palestinian-plan-has-a-chance-276949">Also Read: Trump insists Israeli-Palestinian plan has a 'chance'</a> 
&nbsp; 
It's being proclaimed as the deal of the century. Many Presidents before Donald Trump have tried and all of them have failed to bring peace between Israel and Palestine. 
&nbsp; 
So how is Donald Trump's deal different from the earlier ones. For starters, Israel supports the deal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Trump and said this was an opportunity of the century. 
&nbsp; 
Netanyahu's gratitude towards Trump is because the deal is stacked largely in Israel's favour.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-west-asia-plan-is-the-last-chance-to-bring-peace-says-jared-kushner-trump-277191/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Major takeaways from the "deal of the century"

There will be a 4-year freeze on Israeli settlements which means a halt in the expansion of Israel's construction activities in the West Bank. 
&nbsp; 
The deal promises to double the area under the control of the Palestinian authorities. But a major portion of the West Bank settlements will be recognised under Israeli sovereignty. 
&nbsp; 
Trump has vowed to grant statehood to Palestine if it demilitarises and stops funding terror groups. As expected the deal does advocate the 2-state solution.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/key-takeaways-from-trumps-west-asia-plan-277188/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the President, an undivided Jerusalem will be the capital of Israel. 
&nbsp; 
In the same breath, Trump also said he would proudly open a US embassy in a Palestinian capital in eastern Jerusalem. It's still unclear as to how such an arrangement could work.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-reacts-to-trumps-west-asia-plan-277190/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The contentious Jordan valley has been recognised as part of Israel due to national security reasons. And on the economic front, Palestine has been promised $50 billion in investment with more than a million jobs to be created. 
&nbsp; 
The deal continues to draw on many aspects from the Oslo accords, including the region's map. The architect of the plan, Jared Kushner has said that the different parts of Palestine will be linked using tunnels, overbridges and huge highways. 
&nbsp; 
Both Kushner and Trump called this deal the last chance for peace in the region.The major stakeholder in the deal, Palestine have outrightly rejected the deal. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called it the slap of the century. 
&nbsp; 
But according to Jared Kushner, the Palestinians look like fools for rejecting the deal. He said this is an opportunity for Palestine to prove that they truly want statehood.

US President Donald Trump's peace plan for West Asia delights Israel but fails to recognise Palestinian sovereign ambition. Also Read: Trump unveils Middle East peace plan; Jerusalem to be undivided capital The plan attaches nearly impossible conditions for granting the Palestinians their hoped-for state that sides with Israel on borders, the status of Jerusalem and Jewish settlements.

US President Donald Trump's peace plan for West Asia delights Israel but fails to recognise Palestinian sovereign ambition. Also Read: Trump unveils Middle East peace plan; Jerusalem to be undivided capital The plan attaches nearly impossible conditions for granting the Palestinians their hoped-for state that sides with Israel on borders, the status of Jerusalem and Jewish settlements. Also Read: Trump insists Israeli-Palestinian plan has a 'chance' It's being proclaimed as the deal of the century. Many Presidents before Donald Trump have tried and all of them have failed to bring peace between Israel and Palestine. So how is Donald Trump's deal different from the earlier ones. For starters, Israel supports the deal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Trump and said this was an opportunity of the century. Netanyahu's gratitude towards Trump is because the deal is stacked largely in Israel's favour. Major takeaways from the "deal of the century" There will be a 4-year freeze on Israeli settlements which means a halt in the expansion of Israel's construction activities in the West Bank. The deal promises to double the area under the control of the Palestinian authorities. But a major portion of the West Bank settlements will be recognised under Israeli sovereignty. Trump has vowed to grant statehood to Palestine if it demilitarises and stops funding terror groups. As expected the deal does advocate the 2-state solution. According to the President, an undivided Jerusalem will be the capital of Israel. In the same breath, Trump also said he would proudly open a US embassy in a Palestinian capital in eastern Jerusalem. It's still unclear as to how such an arrangement could work. The contentious Jordan valley has been recognised as part of Israel due to national security reasons. And on the economic front, Palestine has been promised $50 billion in investment with more than a million jobs to be created. The deal continues to draw on many aspects from the Oslo accords, including the region's map. The architect of the plan, Jared Kushner has said that the different parts of Palestine will be linked using tunnels, overbridges and huge highways. Both Kushner and Trump called this deal the last chance for peace in the region.The major stakeholder in the deal, Palestine have outrightly rejected the deal. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called it the slap of the century. But according to Jared Kushner, the Palestinians look like fools for rejecting the deal. He said this is an opportunity for Palestine to prove that they truly want statehood.

Palestinians infuriated as Trump unveils Middle-East peace plan with Jerusalem as Capital

US President Donald Trump's Middle East plan has aroused a lukewarm response from Europe and the UN, and a furious criticism from key Muslim countries who condemned it as a betrayal of the Palestinians. Here are some of the responses from around to the world to the plan, which had already been resoundingly rejected by Palestinian leaders.

World reacts to Trump's West Asia Plan

Many have tried to bring peace between Israel and Palestine but failed. US President Donald Trump has initiated a plan for peace between the two countries. How is Trump's plan different and efficient from previous who tried? watch Report:

Key takeaways from Trump's West Asia plan

Donald Trump has a new West Asia Peace Plan. The U.S. President is 'extremely favourable' to Israel in the deal. But can Trump reach peace in West Asia? #Gravitas #WestAsiaPeaceDeal #DonaldTrump

Gravitas: Trump West Asia plan: Peace deal without Palestine?

U.S. President Donald Trump and Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled his much-awaited peace plan on Tuesday at the White House. Alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump said his plan is "a win-win" for both Israel and the Palestinians.

Trump, Netanyahu make joint statements from White House

U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled his much-awaited peace plan on Tuesday at the White House. Alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump said his plan is "a win-win" for both Israel and the Palestinians.

Trump's Peace Plan Calls for Two States, Settlement Freeze

US President Donald Trump has unveiled his vision for Middle East peace in a White House launch that gifted Israel a wishlist of its long-held demands while promising Palestinians a potential “state”, but with severe restrictions. Trump announced details of the 181-page plan. Watch report:

Trump unveils West Asia Plan| Offers 'realistic' two-state solution

On January 27 the US military said an E-11A aircraft had crashed in the province of Ghazni, but disputed claims by the Taliban militant group that they brought it down. Iranian reports say that among the people on board was Michael D'Andrea, the man who arranged the mission that led to Iranian top General Qasem Soleimani's assassination. On the other hand, the United States has confirmed its plane plan but has not released the identity of the men on board.

US plane crashes in Afghanistan, Top US Intel officers dead

The Palestinians remain committed to ending the Israeli occupation and establishing a state with its capital in east Jerusalem, Abbas said at a news conference in the West Bank city of Ramallah, where the Western-backed Palestinian Authority is headquartered.

Trump's Middle East 'Peace Plan' rejected by Palestine

Trump's West Asia Plan was rejected by Palestinian leaders before they saw it but the architect of the plan Jared Kushner has said that the different parts of Palestine will be linked using tunnels, bridges and huge highways. Both Kushner and Trump has called this deal as the last chance to bring peace between Israel and Palestine.

Trump's West Asia Plan is the last chance to bring peace, Says Jared Kushner & Trump

Fifty US military personnel have now been diagnosed with shocks and traumatic brain injuries following the Iranian missile attack on US forces in Iraq earlier this month. That's an increase of 16 from late last week when the Pentagon said 34 cases had been diagnosed. Watch report:

50 US troops diagnosed with brain injuries after Iranian missile strike

WION spoke with Political consultant and expert on British politics, Jodie Cohen on Trump's West Asia Plan which indicates that Trump has outrightly handed over Jerusalem to Israel. Watch the video for more information.

Trump's West Asia Plan: Most Of West Bank Recognised As Israel

American warplanes dropped more bombs on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-ghazni-province-276876">Afghanistan</a>&nbsp;in 2019 than at any other time in at least a decade, according to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-bill-to-support-tibet-warns-sanctions-on-chinese-officials-for-interfering-in-dalai-lamas-succession-277317">US</a> Air Force, as Washington intensified attacks in the country amid withdrawal talks with the Taliban.

In 2019 alone, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-us-troops-diagnosed-with-traumatic-brain-injury-after-iran-strike-pentagon-277276">US </a>dropped 7,423 separate munitions on targets in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-ghazni-province-276876">Afghanistan</a>, where the US has been enmeshed in fighting several militant groups since it invaded the country following the September 11, 2001 attacks.

The figure published online by US Air Forces Central Command represents a dramatic surge in bombings in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;compared to the peak of President Barack Obama's "surge" in 2009 when 4,147 bombs were dropped.

Since President Donald Trump was elected in 2016

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-ghazni-province-276876">Plane crashes in Afghanistan's Ghazni province</a>

the US has ramped up bombing runs over&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;as the White House removed earlier restrictions that provided greater oversight over air raids aimed at preventing civilian casualties.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bigger-challenges-lie-ahead-as-un-completes-73-years-173140">UN</a> and rights groups have repeatedly voiced concerns that the increase in airstrikes across the country by US and Afghan forces have resulted in a major upswing in civilian casualties.

During the first half of 2019 pro-government forces, including the US, killed 717 civilians, an increase of 31 percent from a year earlier, the UN reported last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-us-troops-diagnosed-with-traumatic-brain-injury-after-iran-strike-pentagon-277276">50 US troops diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after Iran strike: Pentagon</a>

Most of the deaths came from US and Afghan airstrikes, often in support of national forces on the ground, the report said.

The increase in bombings comes as Washington and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/taliban-must-agree-to-a-ceasefire-and-join-the-intra-afghan-peace-talks-215289">Taliban</a> continue to wrangle over a possible agreement that would see US troops begin to leave&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;in return for security guarantees.

The Taliban have been pushing to reach a withdrawal agreement with Washington by the end of January and are prepared to "scale down" military operations ahead of signing a deal, their chief spokesman said earlier this month.

The two sides had been negotiating an agreement for a year and were close to an announcement in September 2019 when US President Donald Trump abruptly declared the process "dead", citing Taliban violence.

Taliban sources said earlier this month they had offered to initiate a brief ceasefire of seven to 10 days in order to restart the talks formally, but there has been no announcement of the proposal by either party

American warplanes dropped more bombs on Afghanistan in 2019 than at any other time in at least a decade, according to the US Air Force, as Washington intensified attacks in the country amid withdrawal talks with the Taliban.

American warplanes dropped more bombs on Afghanistan in 2019 than at any other time in at least a decade, according to the US Air Force, as Washington intensified attacks in the country amid withdrawal talks with the Taliban. In 2019 alone, the US dropped 7,423 separate munitions on targets in Afghanistan, where the US has been enmeshed in fighting several militant groups since it invaded the country following the September 11, 2001 attacks. The figure published online by US Air Forces Central Command represents a dramatic surge in bombings in Afghanistan compared to the peak of President Barack Obama's "surge" in 2009 when 4,147 bombs were dropped. Since President Donald Trump was elected in 2016 Also read: Plane crashes in Afghanistan's Ghazni province the US has ramped up bombing runs over Afghanistan as the White House removed earlier restrictions that provided greater oversight over air raids aimed at preventing civilian casualties. The UN and rights groups have repeatedly voiced concerns that the increase in airstrikes across the country by US and Afghan forces have resulted in a major upswing in civilian casualties. During the first half of 2019 pro-government forces, including the US, killed 717 civilians, an increase of 31 percent from a year earlier, the UN reported last year. Also read: 50 US troops diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after Iran strike: Pentagon Most of the deaths came from US and Afghan airstrikes, often in support of national forces on the ground, the report said. The increase in bombings comes as Washington and the Taliban continue to wrangle over a possible agreement that would see US troops begin to leave Afghanistan in return for security guarantees. The Taliban have been pushing to reach a withdrawal agreement with Washington by the end of January and are prepared to "scale down" military operations ahead of signing a deal, their chief spokesman said earlier this month. The two sides had been negotiating an agreement for a year and were close to an announcement in September 2019 when US President Donald Trump abruptly declared the process "dead", citing Taliban violence. Taliban sources said earlier this month they had offered to initiate a brief ceasefire of seven to 10 days in order to restart the talks formally, but there has been no announcement of the proposal by either party

United States bombing of Afghanistan hits 10-year high: US Air Force

50 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-stops-weapons-delivery-to-iraq-amid-tensions-with-baghdad-reports-277061">US</a> service members have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after its base in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-stops-weapons-delivery-to-iraq-amid-tensions-with-baghdad-reports-277061">Iraq</a> was attacked by Iranian missiles earlier this month.

The military had previously announced on Friday that 34 US troops had suffered traumatic brain injury after the missile strike.&nbsp;

Symptoms of concussive injuries experienced by the troops include headaches, dizziness, sensitivity to light and nausea.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-spy-plane-crash-in-afghanistan-277115">Iran media claims CIA chief behind Soleimani’s assassination killed in Afghanistan plane crash</a>

31 of the 50 were treated in Iraq and returned to duty, including 15 of those diagnosed most recently, Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Campbell said.

18 of the total have been sent to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-woman-linked-to-islamic-state-returned-to-germany-264251">Germany</a> for further evaluation and treatment, and one was sent to Kuwait and has since returned to duty, he said.

"This is a snapshot in time and numbers can change," he added.

Contrary to the initial assessment, the injuries of the service members indicate that they are more severe.

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-files-lawsuits-against-overseas-call-centers-for-making-fake-robocalls-277174">Donald Trump</a> and other top officials had initially said that no US service member had been neither been killed nor had suffered any injury in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-sounds-alarm-for-democracy-after-candidates-barred-276882">Iran</a>'s attack on January 8.

At the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50th-world-economic-forum-at-davos-key-focus-on-climate-change-economic-slowdown-sustainable-growth-275631">World Economic Forum </a>last week, Trump had said the injuries were ''not very serious''.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50th-world-economic-forum-at-davos-key-focus-on-climate-change-economic-slowdown-sustainable-growth-275631">50th World Economic Forum at Davos: Key focus on climate change, economic slowdown, sustainable growth</a>

This was&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;by&nbsp;US war veterans.

''The group expects an apology from the president to our servicemen and women for his misguided remarks," William Schmitz, national commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, said on Friday.

According to Pentagon data, about 408,000 service members have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury since 2000.

The attack had been carried out by Iran on the Ain al-Asad airbase in western Iraq as a retaliation to the US airstrike that killed its top revolutionary guard general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-respond-to-soleimani-killing-any-time-in-any-manner-foreign-minister-zarif-272013">Qassem Soleimani</a> on January 3.

The missile attacks capped a spiral of violence that had started in late December, and both sides have refrained from further military escalation. 
&nbsp;

50 US service members have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after its base in Iraq was attacked by Iranian missiles earlier this month. The military had previously announced on Friday that 34 US troops had suffered traumatic brain injury after the missile strike.

50 US service members have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after its base in Iraq was attacked by Iranian missiles earlier this month. The military had previously announced on Friday that 34 US troops had suffered traumatic brain injury after the missile strike. Symptoms of concussive injuries experienced by the troops include headaches, dizziness, sensitivity to light and nausea. Also see: Iran media claims CIA chief behind Soleimani’s assassination killed in Afghanistan plane crash 31 of the 50 were treated in Iraq and returned to duty, including 15 of those diagnosed most recently, Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Campbell said. 18 of the total have been sent to Germany for further evaluation and treatment, and one was sent to Kuwait and has since returned to duty, he said. "This is a snapshot in time and numbers can change," he added. Contrary to the initial assessment, the injuries of the service members indicate that they are more severe. US President Donald Trump and other top officials had initially said that no US service member had been neither been killed nor had suffered any injury in Iran's attack on January 8. At the World Economic Forum last week, Trump had said the injuries were ''not very serious''. Also read: 50th World Economic Forum at Davos: Key focus on climate change, economic slowdown, sustainable growth This was criticised by US war veterans. ''The group expects an apology from the president to our servicemen and women for his misguided remarks," William Schmitz, national commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, said on Friday. According to Pentagon data, about 408,000 service members have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury since 2000. The attack had been carried out by Iran on the Ain al-Asad airbase in western Iraq as a retaliation to the US airstrike that killed its top revolutionary guard general Qassem Soleimani on January 3. The missile attacks capped a spiral of violence that had started in late December, and both sides have refrained from further military escalation.

50 US troops diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after Iran strike: Pentagon

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