Days after Iran admitted to shooting down Ukraine plane, foreign minister Javed Zarif on Wednesday said, I and President Rouhani did not know the reason behind Boeing crash till Friday.

Days after Iran admitted to shooting down Ukraine plane, foreign minister Javed Zarif on Wednesday said, I and President Rouhani did not know the reason behind Boeing crash till Friday. Meanwhile, former Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn said that the French ambassador had warned him shortly after his arrest that his own company was plotting against him. Here are the top 10 news stories that dominated the world arena on Wednesday. I and President Rouhani did not know the reason behind Boeing crash till Friday: Iran foreign minister Zarif Just days after the Iranian army shot down a Ukranian Boeing 737 aircraft, foreign minister Javad Zarif speaking at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi said it occurred due to a "crisis". Read more We help Apple on trade, yet they refuse to unlock phones used by killers: Trump Trump asked Apple to help the federal agencies unlock phones that are used by criminals something that Apple has refused to do. He said that his government had consistently helped apple in trade matters and so it was time for Apple to reciprocate. Read more China's using its growing economic clout to silence critics abroad: Human Rights Watch The head of Human Rights Watch has accused the Chinese government of not only creating a high-tech surveillance state at home but using its growing economic clout to silence critics abroad. Read more Trump backs Sanders in row with Warren over prospect of female US president US President Donald Trump backed Democratic presidential contender Bernie Sanders in his back-and-forth with rival Elizabeth Warren, saying he did not believe Sanders would suggest a woman could not win the 2020 election. Read more Iran plane crash: Video shows missiles launched from an Iranian military site hit the plane Two missiles launched from an Iranian military site hit Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 on January 8, the New York Times report said on Tuesday. The Times reportedly verified security camera footage and stated that two missiles, fired 30 seconds apart, from an Iranian military site around eight miles from the plane. Read more Rupert Murdoch's son condemns Fox News and News Corp for coverage of climate change, Australian bushfire James Murdoch, the son of media mogul Rupert Murdoch has denounced the coverage of climate crisis, especially the Australian bushfire by his father's news outlet. Read more Former Nissan boss Ghosn says French envoy warned about Nissan plotting against him Former Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn said that the French ambassador had warned him shortly after his arrest that his own company was plotting against him which forced him to make the dramatic escape to Beirut. Read more ICJ ruling on urgent measures in Rohingya case on January 23: Gambia The U.N.'s top court will deliver its decision next week on whether emergency measures should be imposed on Myanmar over alleged genocide against its Rohingya Muslims, the Gambian government tweeted Wednesday. Read more Hong Kong police defuse pipe bomb, arrest four for manufacturing explosives Hong Kong police said they defused a pipe bomb and arrested four men for manufacturing explosives after raiding an apartment where they found protest-related items such as Guy Fawkes masks and protective gear. Read more At least 62 killed after several avalanches hit PoK At least 62 people were killed and many went missing in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir after several avalanches hit the villages due to the harsh winters. According to a report, the worst hit was the Neelum Valley area where heavy rains and snowfall triggered multiple avalanches, including one that killed at least 19 people. Read more

Top 10 world news today: US democratic debate, PoK avalanches and more

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei while addressing people during&nbsp;the Friday prayers called US President Trump a "clown" while attacking US presence in the region. Meanwhile, President Xi Jinping arrived in Myanmar on a two-day visit today with several Belt and Road(BRI) project on the anvil and&nbsp;Ukraine's prime minister offered his resignation after an audio clip was leaked of him reportedly criticizing President Volodymyr Zelensky's understanding of the economy.

Here are the top 10 news stories that dominated the world arena.

These American 'clowns' who lie, says Khamenei in Friday sermon referring to Trump

While calling for national unity, Khamenei said: 'The Quds Force is a humanitarian organisation with human values that protects people across the region'. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/these-american-clowns-who-lie-says-khamenei-in-friday-sermon-referring-to-trump-274902">Read more</a>

President Xi Jinping arrives in Myanmar seeking to push Belt and Road project

Chinese President Xi is scheduled to meet Aung San Suu Kyi and Army chief Min Aung Hlaing in Naypyitaw, including several heads of political parties. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinas-president-xi-jinping-arrives-in-myanmar-seeking-to-push-belt-and-road-project-274887">Read more</a>

US President Trump's impeachment trial officially gets underway in Senate

Even as the impeachment proceedings got underway at Capitol Hill, a handful of protesters staged demonstrations outside. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trumps-impeachment-trial-officialy-gets-underway-274778">Read more</a>

Ahead of Davos summit, Greta Thunberg calls for 'real climate action'

Greta Thunberg is due to address the Davos summit next week. She is widely expected to ask the gathering of top business heads and government officials to stop investing in fossil fuels. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-davos-summit-greta-thunberg-calls-for-real-climate-action-274917">Read more</a>&nbsp;

Iran gave US 'slap on face', calls missile strikes 'day of God': Khamenei

As tension escalated between Iran and US following the killing of Qasem Soleimeni, a powerful Iranian general who was close to Khamenei, Iran launched missiles at US targets on January 8. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-iran-gave-us-slap-on-face-calls-missile-strikes-day-of-god-274857">Read more</a>

Ukrainian PM Oleksiy Honcharuk offers resignation after leaked recording

'To remove any doubts about our respect for and trust in the president, I have written a resignation letter and handed it over to the president,' Oleksiy Goncharuk wrote on his official Facebook page. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-pm-oleksiy-honcharuk-offers-resignation-after-leaked-recording-274852">Read more</a>

Paternity leave row: Japanese minister Koizumi welcomes baby boy

The minister says he wants to set an example and become a role-model for Japan's working fathers. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paternity-leave-row-japanese-minister-koizumi-welcomes-baby-boy-looks-forward-to-balancing-public-duties-with-child-care-274921">Read more</a>

Meghan Markle 'may not return' to UK for a very long time

Ahead of the ad-hoc staff, only two permanent employees which include a house manager and a cleaner are moved to the Queen’s household. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meghan-markle-may-not-return-to-uk-for-a-very-long-time-274847">Read more</a>

US congresswomen 'Ayanna Pressley' reveals her bald look

Alopecia is the medical term for baldness, but the word is more often used to refer to alopecia areata, a common autoimmune disorder resulting in unpredictable hair loss. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmaker-pressley-reveals-baldness-alopecia-diagnosis-274800">Read more</a>

Five countries demand Iran compensate relatives of plane-crash victims

This came as the foreign ministers of Canada, Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan, and Britain paid homage to the crash victims at the Canadian high commission in London. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-countries-demand-iran-compensate-relatives-of-plane-crash-victims-274790">Read more</a>

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei while addressing people during the Friday prayers called US President Trump a "clown" while attacking US presence in the region.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei while addressing people during the Friday prayers called US President Trump a "clown" while attacking US presence in the region. Meanwhile, President Xi Jinping arrived in Myanmar on a two-day visit today with several Belt and Road(BRI) project on the anvil and Ukraine's prime minister offered his resignation after an audio clip was leaked of him reportedly criticizing President Volodymyr Zelensky's understanding of the economy. Here are the top 10 news stories that dominated the world arena. These American 'clowns' who lie, says Khamenei in Friday sermon referring to Trump While calling for national unity, Khamenei said: 'The Quds Force is a humanitarian organisation with human values that protects people across the region'. Read more President Xi Jinping arrives in Myanmar seeking to push Belt and Road project Chinese President Xi is scheduled to meet Aung San Suu Kyi and Army chief Min Aung Hlaing in Naypyitaw, including several heads of political parties. Read more US President Trump's impeachment trial officially gets underway in Senate Even as the impeachment proceedings got underway at Capitol Hill, a handful of protesters staged demonstrations outside. Read more Ahead of Davos summit, Greta Thunberg calls for 'real climate action' Greta Thunberg is due to address the Davos summit next week. She is widely expected to ask the gathering of top business heads and government officials to stop investing in fossil fuels. Read more Iran gave US 'slap on face', calls missile strikes 'day of God': Khamenei As tension escalated between Iran and US following the killing of Qasem Soleimeni, a powerful Iranian general who was close to Khamenei, Iran launched missiles at US targets on January 8. Read more Ukrainian PM Oleksiy Honcharuk offers resignation after leaked recording 'To remove any doubts about our respect for and trust in the president, I have written a resignation letter and handed it over to the president,' Oleksiy Goncharuk wrote on his official Facebook page. Read more Paternity leave row: Japanese minister Koizumi welcomes baby boy The minister says he wants to set an example and become a role-model for Japan's working fathers. Read more Meghan Markle 'may not return' to UK for a very long time Ahead of the ad-hoc staff, only two permanent employees which include a house manager and a cleaner are moved to the Queen’s household. Read more US congresswomen 'Ayanna Pressley' reveals her bald look Alopecia is the medical term for baldness, but the word is more often used to refer to alopecia areata, a common autoimmune disorder resulting in unpredictable hair loss. Read more Five countries demand Iran compensate relatives of plane-crash victims This came as the foreign ministers of Canada, Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan, and Britain paid homage to the crash victims at the Canadian high commission in London. Read more

Top 10 world news today: Khamenei calls Trump 'clown', President Xi arrives in Myanmar and more

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/trump-tears-into-environmental-doom-mongers-at-davos-forum-275841">Trump tears into environmental 'doom' mongers at Davos forum 
 
<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6feb0762-f216-47d3-90a4-8c9fccfe1f14" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/trump_0.jpg" /></a>

Thunberg was in the audience in the Swiss Alps to hear the typically bullish speech by Trump, delivered just before the US Senate opened the crucial next stage in his trial for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tears-into-environmental-doom-mongers-at-davos-forum-275841">READ MORE</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-the-new-sars-like-coronavirus-in-china-rises-to-six-275733">As death toll rises, China warns party cadres not to cover-up virus outbreak</a> 
<img alt="SARS" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50e8cce5-3622-426d-85c7-84d1fa3447b5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/SARS.jpg" /> 
The commentary referred to the SARS outbreak as an example, saying delays and a cover-up in reporting the epidemic had hurt the government’s credibility and affected social stability.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-the-new-sars-like-coronavirus-in-china-rises-to-six-275733">READ MORE</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-meets-trump-at-world-economic-forum-in-davos-rakes-up-kashmir-issue-275828">Pakistan PM Imran Khan meets Trump at World Economic Forum in Davos; rakes up Kashmir issue 
 
<img alt="Imran-khan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="030e1f45-314f-4636-9275-62a5ad0ed041" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Imran-Khan.jpg" /></a> 
After the meeting with PM Imran Khan, Trump said that America has never been closer to Pakistan before than it is right now.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-meets-trump-at-world-economic-forum-in-davos-rakes-up-kashmir-issue-275828">READ MORE</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/netflix-interested-in-meghan-markle-prince-harrys-story-of-royal-exit-275799">Netflix interested in Meghan Markle, Prince Harry's story of royal exit</a>

<img alt="Meghan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9062c221-a0c0-4b60-9fa0-c1e0a5c61154" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Meghan.jpg" />

Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos expressed interest in working with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their story of exit from the British royal family.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/netflix-interested-in-meghan-markle-prince-harrys-story-of-royal-exit-275799">READ MORE</a> 
 
Video: A House Needs Urgent De-Frosting, Thanks To The Bitter Cold In Russia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-house-needs-urgent-de-frosting-thanks-to-the-bitter-cold-in-russia-275831/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-vatican-must-probe-cover-up-of-child-sexual-abuse-275752">Sex scandal shocks Mexico: The Vatican must probe cover-up of child sexual abuse</a> 
<img alt="Sex scandal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="390e3c8d-4a2a-417e-9a8e-4cda0e3dc605" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/125294-vatican.jpg" /> 
Vatican reform process has failed to address one key area - punishing known historic abusers and the people who covered for them.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-vatican-must-probe-cover-up-of-child-sexual-abuse-275752">READ MORE</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/family-to-mark-salas-anniversary-in-quiet-contemplation-275788">Family to mark Emiliano Sala's anniversary in 'quiet contemplation' 
<img alt="sala" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="929fa318-2413-46c8-9e2a-f870be54ff7b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sala.jpg" /></a> 
The death of Cardiff forward Emiliano Sala in a plane crash a year ago will be marked by his family on Tuesday in "private, quiet contemplation of their loss", their lawyer said.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/family-to-mark-salas-anniversary-in-quiet-contemplation-275788">READ MORE</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. Trump tears into environmental 'doom' mongers at Davos forum Thunberg was in the audience in the Swiss Alps to hear the typically bullish speech by Trump, delivered just before the US Senate opened the crucial next stage in his trial for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. Trump tears into environmental 'doom' mongers at Davos forum Thunberg was in the audience in the Swiss Alps to hear the typically bullish speech by Trump, delivered just before the US Senate opened the crucial next stage in his trial for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. READ MORE As death toll rises, China warns party cadres not to cover-up virus outbreak The commentary referred to the SARS outbreak as an example, saying delays and a cover-up in reporting the epidemic had hurt the government’s credibility and affected social stability.READ MORE Pakistan PM Imran Khan meets Trump at World Economic Forum in Davos; rakes up Kashmir issue After the meeting with PM Imran Khan, Trump said that America has never been closer to Pakistan before than it is right now.READ MORE Netflix interested in Meghan Markle, Prince Harry's story of royal exit Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos expressed interest in working with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their story of exit from the British royal family.READ MORE Video: A House Needs Urgent De-Frosting, Thanks To The Bitter Cold In Russia Sex scandal shocks Mexico: The Vatican must probe cover-up of child sexual abuse Vatican reform process has failed to address one key area - punishing known historic abusers and the people who covered for them.READ MORE Family to mark Emiliano Sala's anniversary in 'quiet contemplation' The death of Cardiff forward Emiliano Sala in a plane crash a year ago will be marked by his family on Tuesday in "private, quiet contemplation of their loss", their lawyer said.READ MORE

Morning News Brief: January 22, 2020

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-coronavirus-wuhan-city-imposes-transport-lockdown-as-death-toll-rises-to-seventeen-and-no-of-cases-rise-to-571-276004">China coronavirus: Wuhan city imposes transport lockdown as death toll rises to seventeen and number of cases rise to 571</a>

<img alt="wuhan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3f91abb8-f8ac-4263-abed-638591ae24a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_0.jpg" /> 
Cases of the new coronavirus pneumonia disease rose to 571 on the Chinese mainland as of Wednesday midnight, including 95 in critical condition, and fatalities rose to 17. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-coronavirus-wuhan-city-imposes-transport-lockdown-as-death-toll-rises-to-seventeen-and-no-of-cases-rise-to-571-276004">READ MORE</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-resurgence-possible-if-america-leaves-iraq-us-general-276003">Islamic State resurgence possible if America leaves Iraq: US General</a> 
 
<img alt="us" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="352ac977-13ad-41c5-97f4-b0b3017275d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/us.jpg" />

The group "certainly still remain a threat," he said. "They have the potential to resurge if we take the pressure off of them for too long."<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-resurgence-possible-if-america-leaves-iraq-us-general-276003">READ MORE</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/iran-us-conflict-worst-is-over-but-core-issues-remain-unresolved-275946">Iran-US conflict: Worst is over, but core issues remain unresolved</a> 
 
<img alt="IRAN" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48fd4eec-32ae-44ce-b325-fa4e1a62d273" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iran.jpg" /> 
The situation poses a challenge for the foreign policy of India which on the one hand has a strategic partnership with the US and long civilisational links with Iran on the other hand.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/iran-us-conflict-worst-is-over-but-core-issues-remain-unresolved-275946">READ MORE</a> 
 
Video: Davos summit — More sparks fly on day two

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-davos-summit-more-sparks-fly-on-day-two-275999/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-sania-mirza-pulls-out-of-mixed-doubles-citing-calf-injury-276005">Australian Open: Sania Mirza pulls out of Mixed doubles citing calf injury</a>

<img alt="sania-mirza" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="629b75a0-c4d7-44b8-8135-fb684b2f91e2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sania-mirza.jpg" /> 
Sania made a comeback after two years gap by winning the Hobart International. Her calf injury was visible in the later stages of the tournament.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-sania-mirza-pulls-out-of-mixed-doubles-citing-calf-injury-276005">READ MORE</a>

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment-news/british-comedy-icon-and-monty-python-co-founder-terry-jones-dies-at-77-275961">'Monty Python' star Terry Jones dies at 77</a>

<img alt="Monty python" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="552c827c-b4ce-4ef7-b044-a129968b76ec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Monty%20python.jpg" /> 
British comedy icon and 'Monty Python' star Terry Jones died at the age of 77 on Wednesday evening after suffering from Frontotemporal dementia, a rare form of dementia.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment-news/british-comedy-icon-and-monty-python-co-founder-terry-jones-dies-at-77-275961">READ MORE</a>

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. China coronavirus: Wuhan city imposes transport lockdown as death toll rises to seventeen and number of cases rise to 571 Cases of the new coronavirus pneumonia disease rose to 571 on the Chinese mainland as of Wednesday midnight, including 95 in critical condition, and fatalities rose to 17.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. China coronavirus: Wuhan city imposes transport lockdown as death toll rises to seventeen and number of cases rise to 571 Cases of the new coronavirus pneumonia disease rose to 571 on the Chinese mainland as of Wednesday midnight, including 95 in critical condition, and fatalities rose to 17. READ MORE Islamic State resurgence possible if America leaves Iraq: US General The group "certainly still remain a threat," he said. "They have the potential to resurge if we take the pressure off of them for too long."READ MORE Iran-US conflict: Worst is over, but core issues remain unresolved The situation poses a challenge for the foreign policy of India which on the one hand has a strategic partnership with the US and long civilisational links with Iran on the other hand.READ MORE Video: Davos summit — More sparks fly on day two Australian Open: Sania Mirza pulls out of Mixed doubles citing calf injury Sania made a comeback after two years gap by winning the Hobart International. Her calf injury was visible in the later stages of the tournament.READ MORE 'Monty Python' star Terry Jones dies at 77 British comedy icon and 'Monty Python' star Terry Jones died at the age of 77 on Wednesday evening after suffering from Frontotemporal dementia, a rare form of dementia.READ MORE

Morning News Brief: January 23, 2020

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/death-toll-of-chinas-coronavirus-mounts-to-25-276224">Death toll from China's coronavirus mounts to 25</a>

<img alt="China coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7c5f80e4-2a35-41ef-b305-2b85927d2b9c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/RWRTe8lb_0.jpg" />

The death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 25, with the number of confirmed cases jumping to 830, the government said on Friday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-of-chinas-coronavirus-mounts-to-25-276224">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/global-corruption-perception-index-india-slips-to-80th-position-pakistan-ranks-at-120-276178">Global Corruption Perception Index: India slips to 80th position; Pakistan ranks at 120</a>

<img alt="money" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d9e52ed-d47b-4ad2-970d-7ef88899d4a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/KWLNwgkw.jpg" />

India slipped two places on the Corruption Perception Index after it ranked at 80, compared to the previous year when it was ranked at 78, said Transparency International in its annual report on Thursday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/global-corruption-perception-index-india-slips-to-80th-position-pakistan-ranks-at-120-276178">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/firmino-worldie-secures-another-late-liverpool-win-at-wolves-276220">Firmino 'worldie' secures another late Liverpool win at Wolves</a>

<img alt="Liverpool" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93289335-5930-42da-b62f-b39d0d16f5fd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/gg1chi0h.jpg" />

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hailed another moment of magic from Roberto Firmino as the Brazilian's late winner opened up a 16-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a 2-1 victory at Wolves on Thursday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/firmino-worldie-secures-another-late-liverpool-win-at-wolves-276220">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/kashmiri-pandits-deserve-acknowledgement-and-a-dignified-return-276141">Kashmiri Pandits deserve acknowledgement and a dignified return</a>

<img alt="Kashmiri pandits" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="90a36c54-046d-41b2-8046-578447d9f926" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/hR1z3tiZ.jpg" />

Recently trailer of a movie based on Kashmiri Pandits exodus, 'Shikara', was released. The film depicts exodus of Kashmiri Pandits and highlights their plight. The movie has brought back painful memories of the forceful displacement and 'genocide' of Kashmiri Pandits. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/kashmiri-pandits-deserve-acknowledgement-and-a-dignified-return-276141">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-ii-approves-uk-governments-brexit-bill-276201">Queen Elizabeth II approves UK government's Brexit bill</a>

<img alt="Boris Johnson Queen Elizabeth" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="27ee00b8-874d-4806-9941-67945a012ee6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3aZ7znSh.jpg" />

Queen Elizabeth II gave her formal assent Thursday for Britain to end its decades-long involvement in the European Union and seek a more independent but uncertain future at the end of the month. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-ii-approves-uk-governments-brexit-bill-276201">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bradley-cooper-to-star-and-direct-netflixs-leonard-bernstein-biopic-an-oscar-sure-shot-276182">Bradley Cooper to star and direct Netflix's Leonard Bernstein biopic, an Oscar sure shot?</a>

<img alt="Bradley Cooper" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9d75414e-bbef-47b2-b996-67f1d211980c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/71450-bradley%20cooper_0.jpg" />

In big breaking news from Hollywood, Netflix is planning a biopic on Leonard Bernstein, the orchestra conductor, and composer of West Side Story. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bradley-cooper-to-star-and-direct-netflixs-leonard-bernstein-biopic-an-oscar-sure-shot-276182">Read more</a>&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Death toll from China's coronavirus mounts to 25 The death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 25, with the number of confirmed cases jumping to 830, the government said on Friday.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Death toll from China's coronavirus mounts to 25 The death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 25, with the number of confirmed cases jumping to 830, the government said on Friday. Read more Global Corruption Perception Index: India slips to 80th position; Pakistan ranks at 120 India slipped two places on the Corruption Perception Index after it ranked at 80, compared to the previous year when it was ranked at 78, said Transparency International in its annual report on Thursday. Read more Firmino 'worldie' secures another late Liverpool win at Wolves Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hailed another moment of magic from Roberto Firmino as the Brazilian's late winner opened up a 16-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a 2-1 victory at Wolves on Thursday. Read more Kashmiri Pandits deserve acknowledgement and a dignified return Recently trailer of a movie based on Kashmiri Pandits exodus, 'Shikara', was released. The film depicts exodus of Kashmiri Pandits and highlights their plight. The movie has brought back painful memories of the forceful displacement and 'genocide' of Kashmiri Pandits. Read more Queen Elizabeth II approves UK government's Brexit bill Queen Elizabeth II gave her formal assent Thursday for Britain to end its decades-long involvement in the European Union and seek a more independent but uncertain future at the end of the month. Read more Bradley Cooper to star and direct Netflix's Leonard Bernstein biopic, an Oscar sure shot? In big breaking news from Hollywood, Netflix is planning a biopic on Leonard Bernstein, the orchestra conductor, and composer of West Side Story. Read more

Morning News Brief: China's deadly virus outbreak, Global corruption index, and more

Former national security adviser John Bolton wrote in a draft of his forthcoming book that Donald Trump told him in August that he wanted to freeze aid to Ukraine until the country aided investigations into Democrats, including the Bidens. The Republicans have denied wrongdoing in his dealings with Ukraine. On January 27, Trump denied telling Bolton anything about his decision to hold up aid to Kyiv and said he hadn’t seen the manuscript of the coming book.

White House could block Bolton testimony

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz are in Washington to hold the historic talks with US President Donald Trump. Trump welcomed Netanyahu to the White House. The much-anticipated plan to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is expected to be announced soon.

What to expect from Trump's peace plan or "Deal Of Century" ?

Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-us-vice-president-pence-denounce-iran-at-holocaust-memorial-ceremony-276200">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> on Tuesday withdrew his bid for parliamentary immunity from prosecution on corruption charges, making a criminal trial against him a near certainty.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-israeli-palestinian-plan-has-a-chance-276949">Israel'</a>s longest-serving prime minister said in a statement that an immunity debate in parliament would have been a "circus" and he did not want to take part in this "dirty game".

Netanyahu, who denies all wrongdoing, said: "I informed the Knesset speaker that I am withdrawing my immunity request."

The veteran right-winger, who faces a national election in March, is under no legal obligation to resign.

Netanyahu, 70, is now in Washington for meetings with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-top-court-sides-with-trump-on-immigrant-welfare-benefits-276959">US</a>&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impeachment-trial-of-donald-trump-all-star-defence-team-scared-of-going-near-bolton-276987">Donald Trump</a> ahead of the release of Trump's long-delayed Israel-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-prime-minister-calls-on-world-to-boycott-donald-trumps-peace-plan-276902">Palestinian</a> peace plan, which the Palestinians have already rejected.

Netanyahu's main rival, centrist former general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahus-rival-benny-gantz-calls-off-israel-unity-government-talks-reports-253192">Benny Gantz</a>, made Netanyahu's legal troubles a centrepiece of his campaigns in two Israeli elections last year.

Gantz made a brief trip to Washington to discuss the peace plan with Trump, and had rushed back to Israel expecting to lead the parliament debate against granting Netanyahu immunity.

"Netanyahu is going to trial, we have to move on," Gantz said after Netanyahu pulled his immunity request.

"The citizens of Israel have a clear choice: a prime minister who works for them or a prime minister busy with himself. No one can manage the country and in parallel manage three serious criminal cases," Gantz said in a tweet.

Israelis attorney general Avichai Mandelblit indicted Netanyahu on corruption charges - the first of their kind against a serving Israeli prime minister - last November following a long-running investigation.

The charges included bribery, breach of trust and fraud.

Netanyahu is suspected of wrongfully accepting $264,000 worth of gifts, which prosecutors said included cigars and champagne, from tycoons and of dispensing regulatory favours in alleged bids for improved coverage by a popular news website.

Netanyahu could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of bribery and a maximum three-year term for fraud and breach of trust.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday withdrew his bid for parliamentary immunity from prosecution on corruption charges, making a criminal trial against him a near certainty.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday withdrew his bid for parliamentary immunity from prosecution on corruption charges, making a criminal trial against him a near certainty. Israel's longest-serving prime minister said in a statement that an immunity debate in parliament would have been a "circus" and he did not want to take part in this "dirty game". Netanyahu, who denies all wrongdoing, said: "I informed the Knesset speaker that I am withdrawing my immunity request." The veteran right-winger, who faces a national election in March, is under no legal obligation to resign. Netanyahu, 70, is now in Washington for meetings with US President Donald Trump ahead of the release of Trump's long-delayed Israel-Palestinian peace plan, which the Palestinians have already rejected. Netanyahu's main rival, centrist former general Benny Gantz, made Netanyahu's legal troubles a centrepiece of his campaigns in two Israeli elections last year. Gantz made a brief trip to Washington to discuss the peace plan with Trump, and had rushed back to Israel expecting to lead the parliament debate against granting Netanyahu immunity. "Netanyahu is going to trial, we have to move on," Gantz said after Netanyahu pulled his immunity request. "The citizens of Israel have a clear choice: a prime minister who works for them or a prime minister busy with himself. No one can manage the country and in parallel manage three serious criminal cases," Gantz said in a tweet. Israelis attorney general Avichai Mandelblit indicted Netanyahu on corruption charges - the first of their kind against a serving Israeli prime minister - last November following a long-running investigation. The charges included bribery, breach of trust and fraud. Netanyahu is suspected of wrongfully accepting $264,000 worth of gifts, which prosecutors said included cigars and champagne, from tycoons and of dispensing regulatory favours in alleged bids for improved coverage by a popular news website. Netanyahu could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of bribery and a maximum three-year term for fraud and breach of trust.

Netanyahu withdraws bid for immunity from corruption prosecution

The head of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-likely-to-rise-in-china-world-health-organisation-276391">World Health Organisation </a>said on Tuesday he was confident in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-virus-death-toll-passes-100-as-us-canada-issue-travel-warning-276958">China</a>'s ability to contain a new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/discovery-of-a-cure-for-coronavirus-claimed-by-siddha-doctor-from-tamil-nadu-276986">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;that has killed 106 people and that he did not think foreigners should be evacuated,&nbsp;China's foreign ministry said.

A growing number of&nbsp;countries&nbsp;have said they will evacuate their citizens from Wuhan, a central city of 11 million people and the epicentre of the outbreak.

A chartered&nbsp;plane taking out <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-top-court-sides-with-trump-on-immigrant-welfare-benefits-276959">US</a>&nbsp;consulate staff was set to leave Wuhan on Wednesday, a spokeswoman at the US&nbsp;embassy in Beijing said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-deadly-virus-continues-to-spread-outside-china-276966">Coronavirus outbreak: Deadly virus continues to spread outside China</a>

Some space was being offered to other US&nbsp;citizens.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/discovery-of-a-cure-for-coronavirus-claimed-by-siddha-doctor-from-tamil-nadu-276986">India</a> said it was preparing to evacuate its citizens from Hubei province, of which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wuhan-mayor-vows-to-take-any-responsibility-for-city-lockdown-to-bring-epidemic-under-control-276963">Wuhan</a> is the capital.

Watch:&nbsp;Three suspected cases of coronavirus in New Delhi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/three-suspected-cases-of-coronavirus-in-new-delhi-276997/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Concern is mounting about the impact of the coronavirus&nbsp;may have on the world's second-biggest economy amid travel bans and an extended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-cancels-lunar-new-year-parade-due-to-chinas-viral-outbreak-276669">Lunar New Year</a> holiday. Global stocks fell again, oil prices hit three-month lows and&nbsp;China's yuan currency dipped to its weakest in 2020.

The head of the&nbsp;WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a meeting with State Councillor Wang Yi in Beijing, said he approved of the government's measures to curb the outbreak, the foreign ministry said.

"Tedros said the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;does not advocate for&nbsp;countries&nbsp;to evacuate their citizens from&nbsp;China, adding there was no need to overreact," the foreign ministry said in a statement. "He said the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;is confident in&nbsp;China's ability to prevent and control the epidemic."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-news-wuhan-coronavirus-who-yet-to-decide-if-china-virus-is-a-global-health-emergency-276018">China coronavirus: WHO yet to decide if Wuhan virus is a global health emergency</a>

The&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;chief,&nbsp;who&nbsp;also met President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-win-the-battle-against-coronavirus-epidemic-presidnet-xi-jinping-276528">Xi Jinping</a>, was not available for comment. A&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;panel of 16 independent experts twice last week declined to declare an international emergency over the outbreak.

The flu-like&nbsp;virus&nbsp;has spread overseas, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-visa-restriction-on-chinese-tourists-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-277052">Sri Lanka</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-woman-linked-to-islamic-state-returned-to-germany-264251">Germany</a> the latest&nbsp;countries&nbsp;to be hit, but none of the 106 deaths has been&nbsp;outside&nbsp;China&nbsp;and all but six have been in the central city of Wuhan, where the&nbsp;virus&nbsp;emerged last month.

Thailand confirmed six more infections among visitors from&nbsp;China, taking its tally to 14, the highest&nbsp;outside&nbsp;China.

Far eastern Russian regions would close their borders with&nbsp;China&nbsp;until February&nbsp;7, Tass news agency said, citing the regional government.

Chinese-ruled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-confirms-8th-case-of-coronavirus-hubei-residents-banned-276979">Hong Kong</a> said cross-border ferry services would stop.

Watch: Hong Kong confirms 8th case of coronavirus, Hubei residents banned

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-confirms-8th-case-of-coronavirus-hubei-residents-banned-276979/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Wuhan, where the&nbsp;virus&nbsp;apparently jumped to a human in an illegal wildlife market, has been all but put under quarantine, with a lockdown on transport and bans on gatherings.

Tens of millions of others in Hubei live under some form of travel curbs set up to try to stifle the&nbsp;virus.

The&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;said only one of the overseas cases involved human-to-human transmission.

"That’s still one case too many. But we’re encouraged that so far we have not seen more human-to-human transmission&nbsp;outside&nbsp;China," the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;said on Twitter.

"We’re monitoring the outbreak constantly."

Tuesday's toll of 106 dead was up from 81 the day before. The number of total confirmed cases in&nbsp;China&nbsp;surged to 4,515 as of Monday from 2,835 the previous day, the National Health Commission said.

Incubation&nbsp;estimates

Analysts said&nbsp;China's travel and tourism would be the hardest-hit sectors, together with retail and liquor sales, though healthcare and online shopping were seen as likely outperformers.

Officially known as "2019-nCoV", the coronavirus&nbsp;can cause pneumonia, but it is too early to know just how dangerous it is and how easily it spreads.

Some health experts question whether&nbsp;China&nbsp;can contain it.

Chinese health officials say the incubation period could range from one to 14 days, and the&nbsp;virus&nbsp;is infectious during that time. The&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;estimated an incubation period of two to 10 days.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coronavirus-attack-deadly-virus-outbreaks-across-the-world-which-created-panic-in-the-past-276895">Coronavirus attack: Deadly virus outbreaks across the world which created panic in the past</a>

US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impeachment-trial-of-donald-trump-all-star-defence-team-scared-of-going-near-bolton-276987">Donald Trump</a> on Monday offered&nbsp;China&nbsp;whatever help it needed, while the State Department said Americans should reconsider visiting&nbsp;China.

Canada, which has two infections and 19 potential cases, warned its citizens to avoid travel to Hubei.

Authorities in Hubei, home to nearly 60 million people, have been the focus of public outrage on&nbsp;China's heavily censored social media over what many see as a bungled initial response to the&nbsp;virus.

In rare public self-criticism, Mayor Zhou Xianwang said Wuhan's management of the crisis was "not good enough" and indicated he was willing to resign.

China's ambassador to the United Nations, following a meeting with UN Secretary-General <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-chief-antonio-guterres-urges-iran-to-stick-to-nuclear-deal-after-breaching-cap-232148">Antonio Guterres</a>, said his government put "paramount importance" on the epidemic and was working with the international community in a spirit of "openness, transparency and scientific coordination".

Communist Party-ruled&nbsp;China&nbsp;has been eager to seem open in its handling of the epidemic after it was heavily criticised for efforts to cover up an epidemic of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) that killed about 800 people globally in 2002-2003.

SARS, which was also believed to have originated in a wildlife market, led to a 45 percent&nbsp;plunge in air passenger demand in Asia. The travel industry is more reliant on Chinese travellers now, and&nbsp;China's share of the global economy has quadrupled.

With Chinese markets shut for the holiday, investors were selling the offshore yuan and the Australian dollar as a proxy for risk. Oil was also under pressure as fears about the wider fallout grew.

The US&nbsp;S&amp;P 500 closed down nearly 1.6 percent.

The head of the World Health Organisation said on Tuesday he was confident in China's ability to contain a new coronavirus that has killed 106 people and that he did not think foreigners should be evacuated, China's foreign ministry said.

The head of the World Health Organisation said on Tuesday he was confident in China's ability to contain a new coronavirus that has killed 106 people and that he did not think foreigners should be evacuated, China's foreign ministry said. A growing number of countries have said they will evacuate their citizens from Wuhan, a central city of 11 million people and the epicentre of the outbreak. A chartered plane taking out US consulate staff was set to leave Wuhan on Wednesday, a spokeswoman at the US embassy in Beijing said. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: Deadly virus continues to spread outside China Some space was being offered to other US citizens. India said it was preparing to evacuate its citizens from Hubei province, of which Wuhan is the capital. Watch: Three suspected cases of coronavirus in New Delhi Concern is mounting about the impact of the coronavirus may have on the world's second-biggest economy amid travel bans and an extended Lunar New Year holiday. Global stocks fell again, oil prices hit three-month lows and China's yuan currency dipped to its weakest in 2020. The head of the WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a meeting with State Councillor Wang Yi in Beijing, said he approved of the government's measures to curb the outbreak, the foreign ministry said. "Tedros said the WHO does not advocate for countries to evacuate their citizens from China, adding there was no need to overreact," the foreign ministry said in a statement. "He said the WHO is confident in China's ability to prevent and control the epidemic." Also read: China coronavirus: WHO yet to decide if Wuhan virus is a global health emergency The WHO chief, who also met President Xi Jinping, was not available for comment. A WHO panel of 16 independent experts twice last week declined to declare an international emergency over the outbreak. The flu-like virus has spread overseas, with Sri Lanka and Germany the latest countries to be hit, but none of the 106 deaths has been outside China and all but six have been in the central city of Wuhan, where the virus emerged last month. Thailand confirmed six more infections among visitors from China, taking its tally to 14, the highest outside China. Far eastern Russian regions would close their borders with China until February 7, Tass news agency said, citing the regional government. Chinese-ruled Hong Kong said cross-border ferry services would stop. Watch: Hong Kong confirms 8th case of coronavirus, Hubei residents banned Wuhan, where the virus apparently jumped to a human in an illegal wildlife market, has been all but put under quarantine, with a lockdown on transport and bans on gatherings. Tens of millions of others in Hubei live under some form of travel curbs set up to try to stifle the virus. The WHO said only one of the overseas cases involved human-to-human transmission. "That’s still one case too many. But we’re encouraged that so far we have not seen more human-to-human transmission outside China," the WHO said on Twitter. "We’re monitoring the outbreak constantly." Tuesday's toll of 106 dead was up from 81 the day before. The number of total confirmed cases in China surged to 4,515 as of Monday from 2,835 the previous day, the National Health Commission said. Incubation estimates Analysts said China's travel and tourism would be the hardest-hit sectors, together with retail and liquor sales, though healthcare and online shopping were seen as likely outperformers. Officially known as "2019-nCoV", the coronavirus can cause pneumonia, but it is too early to know just how dangerous it is and how easily it spreads. Some health experts question whether China can contain it. Chinese health officials say the incubation period could range from one to 14 days, and the virus is infectious during that time. The WHO estimated an incubation period of two to 10 days. Also see: Coronavirus attack: Deadly virus outbreaks across the world which created panic in the past US President Donald Trump on Monday offered China whatever help it needed, while the State Department said Americans should reconsider visiting China. Canada, which has two infections and 19 potential cases, warned its citizens to avoid travel to Hubei. Authorities in Hubei, home to nearly 60 million people, have been the focus of public outrage on China's heavily censored social media over what many see as a bungled initial response to the virus. In rare public self-criticism, Mayor Zhou Xianwang said Wuhan's management of the crisis was "not good enough" and indicated he was willing to resign. China's ambassador to the United Nations, following a meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said his government put "paramount importance" on the epidemic and was working with the international community in a spirit of "openness, transparency and scientific coordination". Communist Party-ruled China has been eager to seem open in its handling of the epidemic after it was heavily criticised for efforts to cover up an epidemic of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) that killed about 800 people globally in 2002-2003. SARS, which was also believed to have originated in a wildlife market, led to a 45 percent plunge in air passenger demand in Asia. The travel industry is more reliant on Chinese travellers now, and China's share of the global economy has quadrupled. With Chinese markets shut for the holiday, investors were selling the offshore yuan and the Australian dollar as a proxy for risk. Oil was also under pressure as fears about the wider fallout grew. The US S&P 500 closed down nearly 1.6 percent.

China says World Health Organization chief against virus-related evacuations, as countries plan pull-outs

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-top-court-sides-with-trump-on-immigrant-welfare-benefits-276959">Donald Trump </a>on Tuesday will ignore accusations of pro-Israeli bias,&nbsp;led by the Palestinians themselves, and unveil what he says is a peace plan that can solve the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/news-donald-trump-to-unveil-israel-palestine-peace-plan-by-tuesday-276254">Israeli-Palestinian</a> conflict.

The long-held secret&nbsp;plan will finally be aired jointly by Trump and visiting Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/today-tonight-donald-trump-welcomes-benjamin-netanyahu-wion-news-world-news-276942">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> at the White House.

Given that it has been rejected by the Palestinians, the latest of many US proposals to address the bitter, multi-generational Middle East conflict might seem to have little future.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-prime-minister-calls-on-world-to-boycott-donald-trumps-peace-plan-276902">Palestinian Prime Minister calls on world to boycott Donald Trump's peace plan</a>

But Trump insists he is optimistic and whatever happens, both he and Netanyahu could reap political benefits as they battle respective domestic scandals.

"It might have a chance," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/news-donald-trump-to-unveil-israel-palestine-peace-plan-by-tuesday-276254">Trump</a> said of the plan at an initial Oval Office meeting with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-us-vice-president-pence-denounce-iran-at-holocaust-memorial-ceremony-276200">Netanyahu</a> on Monday.

Trump, whose impeachment trial in the Senate is entering a critical phase, said his plan was getting widespread support from "many of the Arab nations" and claimed that even Palestinians would come round to the idea.

"It's very good for them, in fact it's overly good for them," Trump told reporters. "We think we will have ultimately the support of the Palestinians."

Netanyahu, praising Trump as "the greatest friend that Israel's had in the White House", described the plan as "the deal of the century".

Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump welcomes Benjamin Netanyahu

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/today-tonight-donald-trump-welcomes-benjamin-netanyahu-wion-news-world-news-276942/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Netanyahu also faces corruption charges, as well as a tense election in just over a month, with his right-wing Likud currently neck-and-neck with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-to-expect-from-trumps-peace-plan-or-deal-of-century-276976">Benny Gantz</a>'s centrist Blue and White party.

On Monday, Trump also met separately with Gantz, but the limelight fell almost entirely on the incumbent prime minister -- as will any political dividends from a peace plan favouring Israel.

Watch:&nbsp;What to expect from Trump's peace plan or "Deal Of Century" ?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-to-expect-from-trumps-peace-plan-or-deal-of-century-276976/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

No deal

No Palestinians have been invited to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-impeachment-poll-47-want-trump-out-of-white-house-277104">White House </a>event. They say they were never included in crafting the plan, which was overseen by Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on Monday urged international powers to boycott the plan, which he said was designed "to protect Trump from impeachment and protect Netanyahu from prison.

"It is not a Middle East peace plan," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-prime-minister-calls-on-world-to-boycott-donald-trumps-peace-plan-276902">Shtayyeh</a> told a cabinet meeting. "This plan gives Israel sovereignty over Palestinian territory."

Details of the plan remained under wraps up to the last minute, but it has been gestating for so long that skeptics asked whether it really existed.

Aaron David Miller, a Mideast expert with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said Kushner's team wanted to "finally, basically demonstrate that they have a plan" and to do so ahead of the US presidential election in November.

Trump has already thrown Netanyahu a string of political presents throughout his first term.

He has broken with international diplomatic consensus to recognize the disputed city of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital. He recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, seized from neighboring Syria. And he has ended opposition to Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land.

Ahead of Tuesday's announcement, the Israeli army said it was beefing up forces in the Jordan Valley, a swathe of the occupied West Bank expected to feature in Trump's plan.

Last Thursday, Trump described the still-unpublished peace plan as "great" and said it "really would work".

But on Sunday, Palestinian leaders warned that instead of bringing peace, the plan could trigger their withdrawal from key provisions of the decades-old Oslo Accords, which sought to map out peaceful Israeli-Palestinian relations.

"Trump's plan is the plot of the century to liquidate the Palestinian cause," the Palestinian foreign ministry said in a statement.

Rival Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah planned to show their opposition to the new proposal by joining forces at a rare meeting on Tuesday in the West Bank city of Ramallah.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday will ignore accusations of pro-Israeli bias, led by the Palestinians themselves, and unveil what he says is a peace plan that can solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday will ignore accusations of pro-Israeli bias, led by the Palestinians themselves, and unveil what he says is a peace plan that can solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The long-held secret plan will finally be aired jointly by Trump and visiting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Given that it has been rejected by the Palestinians, the latest of many US proposals to address the bitter, multi-generational Middle East conflict might seem to have little future. Also read: Palestinian Prime Minister calls on world to boycott Donald Trump's peace plan But Trump insists he is optimistic and whatever happens, both he and Netanyahu could reap political benefits as they battle respective domestic scandals. "It might have a chance," Trump said of the plan at an initial Oval Office meeting with Netanyahu on Monday. Trump, whose impeachment trial in the Senate is entering a critical phase, said his plan was getting widespread support from "many of the Arab nations" and claimed that even Palestinians would come round to the idea. "It's very good for them, in fact it's overly good for them," Trump told reporters. "We think we will have ultimately the support of the Palestinians." Netanyahu, praising Trump as "the greatest friend that Israel's had in the White House", described the plan as "the deal of the century". Watch: Donald Trump welcomes Benjamin Netanyahu Netanyahu also faces corruption charges, as well as a tense election in just over a month, with his right-wing Likud currently neck-and-neck with Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White party. On Monday, Trump also met separately with Gantz, but the limelight fell almost entirely on the incumbent prime minister -- as will any political dividends from a peace plan favouring Israel. Watch: What to expect from Trump's peace plan or "Deal Of Century" ? No deal No Palestinians have been invited to the White House event. They say they were never included in crafting the plan, which was overseen by Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner. Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on Monday urged international powers to boycott the plan, which he said was designed "to protect Trump from impeachment and protect Netanyahu from prison. "It is not a Middle East peace plan," Shtayyeh told a cabinet meeting. "This plan gives Israel sovereignty over Palestinian territory." Details of the plan remained under wraps up to the last minute, but it has been gestating for so long that skeptics asked whether it really existed. Aaron David Miller, a Mideast expert with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said Kushner's team wanted to "finally, basically demonstrate that they have a plan" and to do so ahead of the US presidential election in November. Trump has already thrown Netanyahu a string of political presents throughout his first term. He has broken with international diplomatic consensus to recognize the disputed city of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital. He recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, seized from neighboring Syria. And he has ended opposition to Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land. Ahead of Tuesday's announcement, the Israeli army said it was beefing up forces in the Jordan Valley, a swathe of the occupied West Bank expected to feature in Trump's plan. Last Thursday, Trump described the still-unpublished peace plan as "great" and said it "really would work". But on Sunday, Palestinian leaders warned that instead of bringing peace, the plan could trigger their withdrawal from key provisions of the decades-old Oslo Accords, which sought to map out peaceful Israeli-Palestinian relations. "Trump's plan is the plot of the century to liquidate the Palestinian cause," the Palestinian foreign ministry said in a statement. Rival Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah planned to show their opposition to the new proposal by joining forces at a rare meeting on Tuesday in the West Bank city of Ramallah.

Trump to unveil Israel-Palestinian peace plan, despite critics

U.S. President Donald Trump will unveil his long-delayed Middle East peace plan at the White House, outlining the proposal in a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

WION Dispatch: Trump To Unveil Middle East Peace Plan

In a major poll over US President Donald Trump that whether he should continue his office or not, 47% of the people believe that he should not. Watch whole story here.

Trump Impeachment Poll: 47% Want Trump Out Of White House

US President Donald Trump's Middle East Plan will take place around noon tomorrow and some bits of information that are trickling through some sources is that the Palestinians will be offered a roadmap to limited statehood for three years if they agree to abide by certain conditions. Watch the video for more information:

Sources: Palestinians will be offered limited statehood for 3 years

The current US government is the worst in the history of America, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state TV on Tuesday.

Rouhani also said Iran's upcoming parliamentary elections in February will have an effect on regional and international politics.

The current US government is the worst in the history of America, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state TV on Tuesday. Rouhani also said Iran's upcoming parliamentary elections in February will have an effect on regional and international politics.

Current US government is the worst in America's history: Iran president

Iranians should not allow US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/americas/china-loves-ripping-off-america-says-us-president-donald-trump-218218">Donald Trump</a>'s "maximum pressure" approach to harm national unity ahead of parliamentary elections, President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on his official website.

Iran's clerical rulers face challenges in keeping the economy afloat under increasingly tough US&nbsp;sanctions imposed by Washington after it withdrew in 2018 from Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers. Vital oil exports have been slashed.

"We should not let Trump succeed in creating gaps between the establishment and people ... We should remain united ... Don't turn your back on (February 21) elections. Let's have a high turn out," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-are-our-masters-and-we-are-its-servants-says-rouhani-amid-protests-in-tehran-274463">Rouhani</a> said.

Iran's hardline Guardians Council, which vets all election candidates, has disqualified about 9,000 of the 14,000 who registered to run in the elections. Moderates say in most cities they have no candidates to enter the race.

Since Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, its rulers have swept aside challenges to their grip on power. But the gap between them and the people has widened since last year when hundreds were killed in anti-government protests.

Tehran also risks a legitimacy crisis amid mounting public fury and international criticism over the belated admission of blame by Iran's elite <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-stands-by-revolutionary-guards-after-unrest-over-downed-plane-275015">Revolutionary Guards</a> for shooting down a Ukrainian passenger plane by mistake.

Angry Iranians took to streets to protest against the delayed admission by the Guards.

The distrust between the rulers and the ruled, combined with economic hardship, bodes ill for the parliamentary vote in February when Iran's rulers typically seek a high turnout to show their legitimacy, even if the outcome will not change any major policy.

"I am calling on our nation to vote," Rouhani said. "Even if you have criticism over issues and problems, please cast your vote."

Iranians should not allow US President Donald Trump's "maximum pressure" approach to harm national unity ahead of parliamentary elections, President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on his official website.

Iranians should not allow US President Donald Trump's "maximum pressure" approach to harm national unity ahead of parliamentary elections, President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on his official website. Iran's clerical rulers face challenges in keeping the economy afloat under increasingly tough US sanctions imposed by Washington after it withdrew in 2018 from Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers. Vital oil exports have been slashed. "We should not let Trump succeed in creating gaps between the establishment and people ... We should remain united ... Don't turn your back on (February 21) elections. Let's have a high turn out," Rouhani said. Iran's hardline Guardians Council, which vets all election candidates, has disqualified about 9,000 of the 14,000 who registered to run in the elections. Moderates say in most cities they have no candidates to enter the race. Since Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, its rulers have swept aside challenges to their grip on power. But the gap between them and the people has widened since last year when hundreds were killed in anti-government protests. Tehran also risks a legitimacy crisis amid mounting public fury and international criticism over the belated admission of blame by Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards for shooting down a Ukrainian passenger plane by mistake. Angry Iranians took to streets to protest against the delayed admission by the Guards. The distrust between the rulers and the ruled, combined with economic hardship, bodes ill for the parliamentary vote in February when Iran's rulers typically seek a high turnout to show their legitimacy, even if the outcome will not change any major policy. "I am calling on our nation to vote," Rouhani said. "Even if you have criticism over issues and problems, please cast your vote."

Iranians should not let Trump harm national unity, Rouhani says

US&nbsp;presidential contender <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/potential-presidential-candidate-michael-bloomberg-spends-record-amount-for-tv-ads-264108">Michael Bloomberg</a> pledged on Sunday to "always have Israel's back," while separately joking he was the only Jewish candidate who does not want to turn the United States into a "kibbutz."

The joke, made during a speech on anti-Semitism and foreign policy, referred to collectivist farms in Israel and was an apparent dig at fellow Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders.

Bloomberg and Sanders, who are both Jewish, are vying for the Democratic nomination to take on Republican President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/what-made-us-president-donald-trump-threaten-iran-271452">Donald Trump</a> in the November election.

Sanders is a front-runner in the race and proposes left-wing policies like abolishing private health insurance in favor of a government-run Medicare for All program, based on the government program for older Americans.

Sanders spent several months in Israel in the 1960s as a volunteer on a kibbutz, or communal farm, and calls himself a democratic socialist.

Bloomberg has more centrist positions and has largely avoided attacks against individual Democratic candidates. A former mayor of New York whose wealth is estimated at about $60 billion, he has pledged to spend from his fortune to support the eventual Democratic nominee even if he loses the contest.

Bloomberg previously criticized leading Democratic candidates as too liberal to beat Trump. His remarks on Sunday appeared to take aim at Sanders, although he did not mention the senator from Vermont by name.

"I’m not the only Jewish candidate running for president. But I am the only one who doesn’t want to turn America into a kibbutz," he told a campaign event at a synagogue in Miami.

Bloomberg’s views include a proposal to create a government-run health insurance plan that would exist alongside private plans.

On Sunday, he vowed never to impose any conditions on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-military-strikes-in-iraq-stir-regional-hornets-nest-271866">US&nbsp;military</a> aid to Israel.

Bloomberg added that "as president, I will always have Israel’s back."

He said he originally opposed a 2015 international deal aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons because the agreement did not do enough to protect Israel. But he also criticized Trump's decision to exit the deal because doing so could boost Iran's nuclear program. Tehran says its nuclear program is peaceful.

Bloomberg also said he was shaken by anti-Semitic attacks, including a gunman's killing in 2018 of 11 worshippers at a Pittsburgh synagogue that Bloomberg said his sister used to attend.

A late entrant to the Democratic nominating race, Bloomberg trails Sanders and fellow front-runners Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren in public opinion polls. But Bloomberg is rising as he floods US&nbsp;airwaves with a television advertising campaign that has cost him more than $225 million, according to estimates by Advertising Analytics.

US presidential contender Michael Bloomberg pledged on Sunday to "always have Israel's back," while separately joking he was the only Jewish candidate who does not want to turn the United States into a "kibbutz.

US presidential contender Michael Bloomberg pledged on Sunday to "always have Israel's back," while separately joking he was the only Jewish candidate who does not want to turn the United States into a "kibbutz." The joke, made during a speech on anti-Semitism and foreign policy, referred to collectivist farms in Israel and was an apparent dig at fellow Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders. Bloomberg and Sanders, who are both Jewish, are vying for the Democratic nomination to take on Republican President Donald Trump in the November election. Sanders is a front-runner in the race and proposes left-wing policies like abolishing private health insurance in favor of a government-run Medicare for All program, based on the government program for older Americans. Sanders spent several months in Israel in the 1960s as a volunteer on a kibbutz, or communal farm, and calls himself a democratic socialist. Bloomberg has more centrist positions and has largely avoided attacks against individual Democratic candidates. A former mayor of New York whose wealth is estimated at about $60 billion, he has pledged to spend from his fortune to support the eventual Democratic nominee even if he loses the contest. Bloomberg previously criticized leading Democratic candidates as too liberal to beat Trump. His remarks on Sunday appeared to take aim at Sanders, although he did not mention the senator from Vermont by name. "I’m not the only Jewish candidate running for president. But I am the only one who doesn’t want to turn America into a kibbutz," he told a campaign event at a synagogue in Miami. Bloomberg’s views include a proposal to create a government-run health insurance plan that would exist alongside private plans. On Sunday, he vowed never to impose any conditions on US military aid to Israel. Bloomberg added that "as president, I will always have Israel’s back." He said he originally opposed a 2015 international deal aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons because the agreement did not do enough to protect Israel. But he also criticized Trump's decision to exit the deal because doing so could boost Iran's nuclear program. Tehran says its nuclear program is peaceful. Bloomberg also said he was shaken by anti-Semitic attacks, including a gunman's killing in 2018 of 11 worshippers at a Pittsburgh synagogue that Bloomberg said his sister used to attend. A late entrant to the Democratic nominating race, Bloomberg trails Sanders and fellow front-runners Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren in public opinion polls. But Bloomberg is rising as he floods US airwaves with a television advertising campaign that has cost him more than $225 million, according to estimates by Advertising Analytics.

US candidate Bloomberg vows to back Israel, takes dig at Sanders

While a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ri-yong-ho-north-korean-foreign-minister-replaced-sources-275106">North Korean</a> deadline for the United States to soften its stand on denuclerisation talks passed uneventfully over the New Year, state media and propaganda efforts have been focussing on the prospect of a long confrontation with the United States.

Optimism that two years of contacts between leader Kim Jong Un and US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-sanctions-to-negotiate-with-iran-donald-trump-276694">Donald Trump</a> would usher in a new age, and related hopes for economic improvement after decades of deprivation, appear to have faded.

Instead, the government has been hard at work in recent weeks using state media, propaganda posters, and performances to warn the public of a bumpy road ahead under US&nbsp;and international pressure.

The propaganda effort has included calls for North Koreans to "breakthrough barriers" and strengthen the country.

The weekend's Lunar New Year celebrations included a concert for Kim and other dignitaries with tributes to the country's leaders for overcoming adversity.

It is a familiar message for North Koreans, but one that now underscores that the leadership does not foresee a breakthrough in diplomacy any time soon.

"The message will be that because of the US&nbsp;hostile policy and sanctions, that things will be more difficult for the foreseeable future," said Andray Abrahamian, a visiting scholar with George Mason University Korea.

Behind the scenes, North Korean officials still say they are seeking badly needed sanctions relief, said one European scholar who regularly attends informal meetings with North Korean representatives.

Publicly, North Korea has said it is no longer bound by commitments to halt nuclear and missile testing, blaming the United States for failing to meet the year-end deadline for it to show more flexibility in the nuclear talks and its "brutal and inhumane" sanctions.

Since Kim came to power in 2011, many North Koreans have steadily seen living conditions improve compared with deprivation and even famines of the 1990s.

In 2018, Kim doubled down by declaring the "completion" of the nuclear weapons programme would allow the government to focus on economic development.

But the failure to win sanctions relief is putting Kim in a sensitive spot.

"In 2012, Kim promised that there would be no more belt-tightening, so for him to call on the country to prepare for exactly that sends a very clear message," Abrahamian said.

"Most North Koreans have seen their economic prospects improve under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/iran-crisis-test-drives-fundaments-of-donald-trumps-foreign-policy-276519">Kim Jong Un</a> so I’m sure this is a worrying time for them."

The propaganda push is designed to support a line Kim set out in a speech at the end of last year calling for North Koreans to brace for an “arduous and prolonged struggle” and to foster a self-reliant economy because of a delay in the anticipated lifting of sanctions, analysts said.

Kim used that speech to acknowledge North Korea may need to "tighten our belts" for the time being.

But state media and propaganda have not yet widely pushed that line widely, likely in part because of Kim's past promises, said Rachel Minyoung Lee, an analyst with NK News, a website that monitors North Korea.

"It is a controversial term and North Korea will likely roll it out very subtly and carefully," she said.

The final months of 2019 saw senior officials warning the United States not to ignore its threat of a "new way" if it did not offer more concessions in talks aimed at getting North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons.

Beyond a warning from Kim that the world would soon see a "new strategic weapon", however, the deadline passed uneventfully.

Since then, the North's state media has been ominously quiet on the issue of talks with the United States.

"I have a feeling they're biding their time to roll out some changes to their foreign policy, including US policy, and North Korea may make its intentions clearer as it gets closer to the showcasing of its 'new strategic weapon'," Lee said.

While a North Korean deadline for the United States to soften its stand on denuclerisation talks passed uneventfully over the New Year, state media and propaganda efforts have been focussing on the prospect of a long confrontation with the United States.

While a North Korean deadline for the United States to soften its stand on denuclerisation talks passed uneventfully over the New Year, state media and propaganda efforts have been focussing on the prospect of a long confrontation with the United States. Optimism that two years of contacts between leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump would usher in a new age, and related hopes for economic improvement after decades of deprivation, appear to have faded. Instead, the government has been hard at work in recent weeks using state media, propaganda posters, and performances to warn the public of a bumpy road ahead under US and international pressure. The propaganda effort has included calls for North Koreans to "breakthrough barriers" and strengthen the country. The weekend's Lunar New Year celebrations included a concert for Kim and other dignitaries with tributes to the country's leaders for overcoming adversity. It is a familiar message for North Koreans, but one that now underscores that the leadership does not foresee a breakthrough in diplomacy any time soon. "The message will be that because of the US hostile policy and sanctions, that things will be more difficult for the foreseeable future," said Andray Abrahamian, a visiting scholar with George Mason University Korea. Behind the scenes, North Korean officials still say they are seeking badly needed sanctions relief, said one European scholar who regularly attends informal meetings with North Korean representatives. Publicly, North Korea has said it is no longer bound by commitments to halt nuclear and missile testing, blaming the United States for failing to meet the year-end deadline for it to show more flexibility in the nuclear talks and its "brutal and inhumane" sanctions. Since Kim came to power in 2011, many North Koreans have steadily seen living conditions improve compared with deprivation and even famines of the 1990s. In 2018, Kim doubled down by declaring the "completion" of the nuclear weapons programme would allow the government to focus on economic development. But the failure to win sanctions relief is putting Kim in a sensitive spot. "In 2012, Kim promised that there would be no more belt-tightening, so for him to call on the country to prepare for exactly that sends a very clear message," Abrahamian said. "Most North Koreans have seen their economic prospects improve under Kim Jong Un so I’m sure this is a worrying time for them." The propaganda push is designed to support a line Kim set out in a speech at the end of last year calling for North Koreans to brace for an “arduous and prolonged struggle” and to foster a self-reliant economy because of a delay in the anticipated lifting of sanctions, analysts said. Kim used that speech to acknowledge North Korea may need to "tighten our belts" for the time being. But state media and propaganda have not yet widely pushed that line widely, likely in part because of Kim's past promises, said Rachel Minyoung Lee, an analyst with NK News, a website that monitors North Korea. "It is a controversial term and North Korea will likely roll it out very subtly and carefully," she said. The final months of 2019 saw senior officials warning the United States not to ignore its threat of a "new way" if it did not offer more concessions in talks aimed at getting North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons. Beyond a warning from Kim that the world would soon see a "new strategic weapon", however, the deadline passed uneventfully. Since then, the North's state media has been ominously quiet on the issue of talks with the United States. "I have a feeling they're biding their time to roll out some changes to their foreign policy, including US policy, and North Korea may make its intentions clearer as it gets closer to the showcasing of its 'new strategic weapon'," Lee said.

North Korea urges citizens to 'break through barriers' as nuclear standoff continues

President Donald Trump said alongside visiting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday that his Israeli-Palestinian peace plan has a "chance" -- despite being flatly rejected by the Palestinians.

Trump, who is also meeting with Netanyahu's election rival Benny Gantz later Monday, said the plan would be unveiled at 12:00 pm (1700 GMT) Tuesday.

Palestinians have already panned the White House peace plan, saying it is overwhelmingly biased toward Israel. No Palestinian leaders were invited to the White House.

But Trump told reporters that "it might have a chance" and that "we're relatively close."

"We think we will have ultimately the support of the Palestinians," he said. The plan is "something they should want... It's very good for them, in fact it's overly good for them."

Trump also said that "many of the Arab nations" back his initiative.

Netanyahu praised Trump as "the greatest friend that Israel's had in the White House" and once more described the peace plan as "the deal of the century."

The twin White House meetings with Netanyahu and Gantz thrust Trump right into Israel's tense election scheduled in just over a month.

Netanyahu's right-wing Likud and Gantz's centrist Blue and White party are polling neck-and-neck.

The peace plan roll-out also gives Trump a welcome distraction from his impeachment trial in the Senate, while boosting Netanyahu's standing as he fights corruption charges back home.

No deal

The Palestinians say they were never included in crafting the plan, which was overseen by Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on Monday urged international powers to boycott the plan, which he said was designed "to protect Trump from impeachment and protect Netanyahu from prison."

"It is not a Middle East peace plan," Shtayyeh told a cabinet meeting. "This plan gives Israel sovereignty over Palestinian territory."

The plan, whose details remain unclear, has been gestating in secret for so long that skeptics asked whether it even really existed.

Aaron David Miller, a Mideast expert with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said Kushner's team wants to "finally, basically demonstrate that they have a plan" -- and to do so ahead of the US presidential election.

In the short term, said Dennis Ross, a US diplomat who worked on the issue under several administrations, "anything that can divert attention away from what's going on" is the goal.

'Make history'

Trump has already thrown Netanyahu a string of political presents.

These include breaking with international diplomatic consensus to recognize the disputed city of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital, recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which were seized from neighbouring Syria, and ending opposition to Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land.

Last Thursday, Trump described the still-unpublished peace plan as "great" and said it "really would work."

Netanyahu said before leaving for Washington that he was "full of hope that we can make history."

Gantz is also enthusiastic, saying the plan will "go down in history," allowing "different players in the Middle East to finally move ahead towards an historic regional agreement."

But on Sunday, Palestinian leaders warned that instead of bringing peace, the plan could trigger their withdrawal from key provisions of the decades-old Oslo Accords, which sought to map out peaceful Israeli-Palestinian relations.

"The US administration will not find a single Palestinian who supports this project," the Palestinian foreign ministry said in a statement on Sunday.

"Trump's plan is the plot of the century to liquidate the Palestinian cause."

Netanyahu is campaigning on a continuation of his hardline policies that he says are needed to provide security for Israelis, but that critics say condemn Palestinians in the occupied territories to an increasingly bleak future.

Adding to the prime minister's worries, the transnational jihadist Islamic State group on Monday reportedly vowed to make Israel its main target.

According to a purported audio message of its spokesman, IS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi is encouraging the group's fighters to "launch a new phase," with major operations against Israel.

President Donald Trump said alongside visiting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday that his Israeli-Palestinian peace plan has a "chance" -- despite being flatly rejected by the Palestinians.

President Donald Trump said alongside visiting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday that his Israeli-Palestinian peace plan has a "chance" -- despite being flatly rejected by the Palestinians. Trump, who is also meeting with Netanyahu's election rival Benny Gantz later Monday, said the plan would be unveiled at 12:00 pm (1700 GMT) Tuesday. Palestinians have already panned the White House peace plan, saying it is overwhelmingly biased toward Israel. No Palestinian leaders were invited to the White House. But Trump told reporters that "it might have a chance" and that "we're relatively close." "We think we will have ultimately the support of the Palestinians," he said. The plan is "something they should want... It's very good for them, in fact it's overly good for them." Trump also said that "many of the Arab nations" back his initiative. Netanyahu praised Trump as "the greatest friend that Israel's had in the White House" and once more described the peace plan as "the deal of the century." The twin White House meetings with Netanyahu and Gantz thrust Trump right into Israel's tense election scheduled in just over a month. Netanyahu's right-wing Likud and Gantz's centrist Blue and White party are polling neck-and-neck. The peace plan roll-out also gives Trump a welcome distraction from his impeachment trial in the Senate, while boosting Netanyahu's standing as he fights corruption charges back home. No deal The Palestinians say they were never included in crafting the plan, which was overseen by Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner. Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on Monday urged international powers to boycott the plan, which he said was designed "to protect Trump from impeachment and protect Netanyahu from prison." "It is not a Middle East peace plan," Shtayyeh told a cabinet meeting. "This plan gives Israel sovereignty over Palestinian territory." The plan, whose details remain unclear, has been gestating in secret for so long that skeptics asked whether it even really existed. Aaron David Miller, a Mideast expert with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said Kushner's team wants to "finally, basically demonstrate that they have a plan" -- and to do so ahead of the US presidential election. In the short term, said Dennis Ross, a US diplomat who worked on the issue under several administrations, "anything that can divert attention away from what's going on" is the goal. 'Make history' Trump has already thrown Netanyahu a string of political presents. These include breaking with international diplomatic consensus to recognize the disputed city of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital, recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which were seized from neighbouring Syria, and ending opposition to Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land. Last Thursday, Trump described the still-unpublished peace plan as "great" and said it "really would work." Netanyahu said before leaving for Washington that he was "full of hope that we can make history." Gantz is also enthusiastic, saying the plan will "go down in history," allowing "different players in the Middle East to finally move ahead towards an historic regional agreement." But on Sunday, Palestinian leaders warned that instead of bringing peace, the plan could trigger their withdrawal from key provisions of the decades-old Oslo Accords, which sought to map out peaceful Israeli-Palestinian relations. "The US administration will not find a single Palestinian who supports this project," the Palestinian foreign ministry said in a statement on Sunday. "Trump's plan is the plot of the century to liquidate the Palestinian cause." Netanyahu is campaigning on a continuation of his hardline policies that he says are needed to provide security for Israelis, but that critics say condemn Palestinians in the occupied territories to an increasingly bleak future. Adding to the prime minister's worries, the transnational jihadist Islamic State group on Monday reportedly vowed to make Israel its main target. According to a purported audio message of its spokesman, IS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi is encouraging the group's fighters to "launch a new phase," with major operations against Israel.

Trump insists Israeli-Palestinian plan has a 'chance'

U.S. President Donald Trump is holding back-to-back meetings Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his chief challenger Benny Gantz

Today Tonight: Donald Trump welcomes Benjamin Netanyahu | WION News | World News

U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to disclose details of his Middle East peace plan to Israeli leaders on Monday

WION Fineprint: Trump To Unveils Middle East Peace Plan

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-sanctions-to-negotiate-with-iran-donald-trump-276694">Donald Trump</a>'s impeachment continues in the Senate, his former national security adviser <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-had-ukraine-aid-withheld-reveals-boltons-new-book-276814">John Bolton</a> has confirmed in his new book that Trump&nbsp;had withheld military aid to Ukraine to force the country into probing his rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-lawyers-say-voters-should-decide-trumps-fate-276578">Joe Biden</a> and his son <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-accuse-trump-at-impeachment-trial-of-corrupt-scheme-to-pressure-ukraine-276105">Hunter </a>Biden.

According to an unpublished manuscript of Bolton's book accessed by the New York Times, Trump called for a month-long hold on a three-hundred-and-ninety-one million dollars aid to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-president-zelensky-rejects-pms-resignation-after-leaked-recording-274964">Ukraine</a>&nbsp;which is embroiled in a conflict with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-invite-nato-members-for-international-army-games-defence-minister-shoigu-276426">Russia</a>.

Trump allegedly wanted the Ukrainian government to open investigations into the Bidens.

Watch:&nbsp;Trump had Ukraine aid withheld, Reveals Bolton's new book

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-had-ukraine-aid-withheld-reveals-boltons-new-book-276814/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Hunter Biden had served on the board of a Ukrainian energy firm while his father was the&nbsp;US vice-president under ex-president Obama.

The leaked manuscript comes at a time when Democrats are criticising Bolton for refusing to voluntarily testify in the Senate.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-lawyers-say-voters-should-decide-trumps-fate-276578">White House lawyers say voters should decide Trump's fate</a>

The former national security adviser is among the most sought after and high profile witnesses in the Trump trial.

While Bolton himself refused to testify, other national security council members have confirmed that he was concerned with the Ukraine scandal.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-caught-saying-get-rid-of-ukraine-ambassador-on-tape-report-276592">Trump caught saying 'get rid' of Ukraine ambassador on tape: report</a>

Bolton has said that he will testify in Senate only if he is subpoenaed.

Meanwhile, Trump has rejected Bolton's admission saying that his former aide is spreading lies to "sell"&nbsp;his book.

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I NEVER told John Bolton that the aid to Ukraine was tied to investigations into Democrats, including the Bidens. In fact, he never complained about this at the time of his very public termination. If John Bolton said this, it was only to sell a book. With that being said, the...
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The former security adviser's admission comes a day after video from 2018 showed Trump interacting with his donors about Ukraine.

The US president was heard telling Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman&nbsp;that he wanted the American envoy to the Ukraine Mary Yovanovich fired.

John Bolton had served as US national security adviser for over a year and was among highest-ranking officials to express concerns over Ukraine.

His testimony will likely be damning for Trump as he will be his closest aide to testify if he appears before the Senate.

As Donald Trump's impeachment continues in the Senate, his former national security adviser John Bolton has confirmed in his new book that Trump had withheld military aid to Ukraine to force the country into probing his rival Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden.

As Donald Trump's impeachment continues in the Senate, his former national security adviser John Bolton has confirmed in his new book that Trump had withheld military aid to Ukraine to force the country into probing his rival Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden. According to an unpublished manuscript of Bolton's book accessed by the New York Times, Trump called for a month-long hold on a three-hundred-and-ninety-one million dollars aid to Ukraine which is embroiled in a conflict with Russia. Trump allegedly wanted the Ukrainian government to open investigations into the Bidens. Watch: Trump had Ukraine aid withheld, Reveals Bolton's new book Hunter Biden had served on the board of a Ukrainian energy firm while his father was the US vice-president under ex-president Obama. The leaked manuscript comes at a time when Democrats are criticising Bolton for refusing to voluntarily testify in the Senate. Also read: White House lawyers say voters should decide Trump's fate The former national security adviser is among the most sought after and high profile witnesses in the Trump trial. While Bolton himself refused to testify, other national security council members have confirmed that he was concerned with the Ukraine scandal. Also read: Trump caught saying 'get rid' of Ukraine ambassador on tape: report Bolton has said that he will testify in Senate only if he is subpoenaed. Meanwhile, Trump has rejected Bolton's admission saying that his former aide is spreading lies to "sell" his book. I NEVER told John Bolton that the aid to Ukraine was tied to investigations into Democrats, including the Bidens. In fact, he never complained about this at the time of his very public termination. If John Bolton said this, it was only to sell a book. With that being said, the... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 27, 2020 × The former security adviser's admission comes a day after video from 2018 showed Trump interacting with his donors about Ukraine. The US president was heard telling Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman that he wanted the American envoy to the Ukraine Mary Yovanovich fired. John Bolton had served as US national security adviser for over a year and was among highest-ranking officials to express concerns over Ukraine. His testimony will likely be damning for Trump as he will be his closest aide to testify if he appears before the Senate.

Trump withheld aid to Ukraine, reveals Bolton's new book

Palestinian prime minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-ministers-sworn-in-again-after-oath-foul-up-210343">Mohammed Shtayyeh </a>on Monday urged international powers to boycott US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-sanctions-to-negotiate-with-iran-donald-trump-276694">Donald Trump</a>'s "peace plan" which they see as biased towards Israel.

"This a plan to protect Trump from impeachment and protect Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-us-vice-president-pence-denounce-iran-at-holocaust-memorial-ceremony-276200">Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu</a> from prison. It is not a Middle East peace plan," Shtayyeh told a cabinet meeting.

"This plan gives Israel sovereignty over Palestinian territory," he said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinians-in-financial-crisis-after-israel-us-moves-204802">Palestinians in financial crisis after Israel, US moves</a>

Trump is expected to unveil his "peace plan" for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/slippery-slope-indias-imports-from-middle-east-at-four-year-low-275412">Middle East</a> after hosting Monday in Washington Netanyahu and his political rival Benny Gantz.

It comes as Trump is facing an impeachment trial in the Senate while Netanyahu, who is facing indictment over corruption allegations, will contest an election next month which Gantz is hoping to win.

Watch: Netanyahu of Israel leaves for Washington saying 'would make history with Trump'&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-of-israel-leaves-for-washington-saying-would-make-history-with-trump-276703/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We call on the international community to not be partners in this because it contravenes international law," Shtayyeh told the Palestinian cabinet.

"The rights of the Palestinian people are not for sale."

The Palestinians have not been invited to Washington, having cut all ties with the Trump administration over its pro-Israel stance.

The plan is widely expected to be the most favourable towards Israel ever proposed by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-promises-action-on-any-north-korea-missile-test-white-house-270890">United States</a>, with alleged leaks denied by Trump&nbsp;suggesting it could declare settlements in the occupied West Bank legal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/news-donald-trump-to-unveil-israel-palestine-peace-plan-by-tuesday-276254">Also read: Donald Trump to unveil Israel-Palestine peace plan by Tuesday</a>

The US proposal could also pull back from the creation of a Palestinian state with east Jerusalem as its capital after Trump in 2018 recognised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pence-caught-on-hot-mic-telling-israeli-pm-that-trump-is-unstoppable-276395">Jerusalem</a> as Israel's capital.

While the US and Israel are likely to be supportive of the plan, the reaction of international powers could be key.

Two European diplomats said that&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-leaders-draft-anti-caa-5-page-resolution-call-it-fundamentally-biased-276779">European Union</a> was working on a statement reaffirming its support for the two-state solution along the traditional lines.

Shtayyeh said president Mahmud Abbas would call a meeting of the Palestinian leadership to discuss the best ways to respond to the plan.

In Gaza, on Monday a few hundred Palestinians protested against the Trump plan, which Palestinians ironically call the "Deal of the Century".

Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on Monday urged international powers to boycott US President Donald Trump's "peace plan" which they see as biased towards Israel.

Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on Monday urged international powers to boycott US President Donald Trump's "peace plan" which they see as biased towards Israel. "This a plan to protect Trump from impeachment and protect Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from prison. It is not a Middle East peace plan," Shtayyeh told a cabinet meeting. "This plan gives Israel sovereignty over Palestinian territory," he said. Also read: Palestinians in financial crisis after Israel, US moves Trump is expected to unveil his "peace plan" for the Middle East after hosting Monday in Washington Netanyahu and his political rival Benny Gantz. It comes as Trump is facing an impeachment trial in the Senate while Netanyahu, who is facing indictment over corruption allegations, will contest an election next month which Gantz is hoping to win. Watch: Netanyahu of Israel leaves for Washington saying 'would make history with Trump' "We call on the international community to not be partners in this because it contravenes international law," Shtayyeh told the Palestinian cabinet. "The rights of the Palestinian people are not for sale." The Palestinians have not been invited to Washington, having cut all ties with the Trump administration over its pro-Israel stance. The plan is widely expected to be the most favourable towards Israel ever proposed by the United States, with alleged leaks denied by Trump suggesting it could declare settlements in the occupied West Bank legal. Also read: Donald Trump to unveil Israel-Palestine peace plan by Tuesday The US proposal could also pull back from the creation of a Palestinian state with east Jerusalem as its capital after Trump in 2018 recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital. While the US and Israel are likely to be supportive of the plan, the reaction of international powers could be key. Two European diplomats said that the European Union was working on a statement reaffirming its support for the two-state solution along the traditional lines. Shtayyeh said president Mahmud Abbas would call a meeting of the Palestinian leadership to discuss the best ways to respond to the plan. In Gaza, on Monday a few hundred Palestinians protested against the Trump plan, which Palestinians ironically call the "Deal of the Century".

Palestinian Prime Minister calls on world to boycott Donald Trump's peace plan

United States Former national security adviser John Bolton confirms in his new book President Donald Trump in August told him that he wanted to continue holding military aid to Ukraine until the country helped with investigations into Democrats, including former Vice President Joe Biden. Watch the video for more information.

Trump linked Ukraine aid to Biden inquiry | WION News | World News

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-sanctions-to-negotiate-with-iran-donald-trump-276694">Iran</a>'s president warned Monday of threats to the Islamic republic's "democracy and national sovereignty", after a body dominated by his ultra-conservative rivals disqualified thousands of candidates, weeks before elections.

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hassan-rouhani-rejects-new-trump-deal-tells-us-to-pick-right-path-274435">Hassan Rouhani</a>'s moderate conservatives and their reformist allies are locked in a public quarrel with the Guardian Council over the disqualification of thousands of candidates -- including 92 sitting MPs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-sanctions-to-negotiate-with-iran-donald-trump-276694">US will not lift sanctions to negotiate with Iran: Donald Trump</a>

The council, which oversees Iran's elections, says it has barred some 9,500 potential candidates from standing, almost two thirds of the 14,500 hopefuls.

Rouhani, whose alliance fears losing its majority in the February 21 polls, said the disqualifications risked appointments being made "elsewhere" than the ballot box.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hassan-rouhani-rejects-new-trump-deal-tells-us-to-pick-right-path-274435">Iran's Hassan Rouhani rejects new 'Trump deal'; tells US to pick 'right path'</a>

"The greatest danger for democracy and national sovereignty is the day when elections become a formality," the government's website quoted Rouhani as saying in a meeting with provincial governors.

"May God never bring this day," he added.

"Let us reassure the people and tell them our system is not a single-party system."

In an apparent reference to ultra-conservatives, he said "they should at least let there be competition and participation".

He called on Iranians of all stripes to vote, "even if... there are shortcomings in elections".

"Sometime I may not want to vote for some reason, but some other time I may not have enough trust to go to the ballot box; this is very dangerous," he said.

Candidates who are disqualified are allowed to appeal before the elections.

The polls come after a traumatic month for Iran, in which it approached the brink of war with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-china-trade-deal-may-not-be-signed-this-year-263497">United States </a>and mistakenly shot down a passenger jet.

A US drone strike in Iraq killed top Iranian general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/qasem-soleimani-and-irans-plan-to-dominate-iraq-273471">Qasem Soleimani </a>on January 3, and Iran retaliated five days later by launching a wave of missiles at US troops stationed in Iraq.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-iranians-general-qasem-soleimani-and-its-consequences-271884">The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences</a>

Hours later, with Iranian forces on high alert, its air defences mistakenly shot down a Ukraine International Airlines passenger jet, killing all 176 people on board.

The disaster triggered scattered protests in Tehran and other cities, although they appeared smaller than nationwide demonstrations in November, sparked by a fuel price hike, in which Amnesty International said at least 300 people died.

Iran's president warned Monday of threats to the Islamic republic's "democracy and national sovereignty", after a body dominated by his ultra-conservative rivals disqualified thousands of candidates, weeks before elections.

Iran's president warned Monday of threats to the Islamic republic's "democracy and national sovereignty", after a body dominated by his ultra-conservative rivals disqualified thousands of candidates, weeks before elections. President Hassan Rouhani's moderate conservatives and their reformist allies are locked in a public quarrel with the Guardian Council over the disqualification of thousands of candidates -- including 92 sitting MPs. Also read: US will not lift sanctions to negotiate with Iran: Donald Trump The council, which oversees Iran's elections, says it has barred some 9,500 potential candidates from standing, almost two thirds of the 14,500 hopefuls. Rouhani, whose alliance fears losing its majority in the February 21 polls, said the disqualifications risked appointments being made "elsewhere" than the ballot box. Also read: Iran's Hassan Rouhani rejects new 'Trump deal'; tells US to pick 'right path' "The greatest danger for democracy and national sovereignty is the day when elections become a formality," the government's website quoted Rouhani as saying in a meeting with provincial governors. "May God never bring this day," he added. "Let us reassure the people and tell them our system is not a single-party system." In an apparent reference to ultra-conservatives, he said "they should at least let there be competition and participation". He called on Iranians of all stripes to vote, "even if... there are shortcomings in elections". "Sometime I may not want to vote for some reason, but some other time I may not have enough trust to go to the ballot box; this is very dangerous," he said. Candidates who are disqualified are allowed to appeal before the elections. The polls come after a traumatic month for Iran, in which it approached the brink of war with the United States and mistakenly shot down a passenger jet. A US drone strike in Iraq killed top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani on January 3, and Iran retaliated five days later by launching a wave of missiles at US troops stationed in Iraq. Also read: The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences Hours later, with Iranian forces on high alert, its air defences mistakenly shot down a Ukraine International Airlines passenger jet, killing all 176 people on board. The disaster triggered scattered protests in Tehran and other cities, although they appeared smaller than nationwide demonstrations in November, sparked by a fuel price hike, in which Amnesty International said at least 300 people died.

Iran's Hassan Rouhani sounds alarm for 'democracy' after candidates barred

Lil Nas X, Lady Gaga, Beyonce and…<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-michelle-obamas-birthday-trump-administration-reverses-her-healthy-school-lunch-reform-275136">&nbsp;Michelle&nbsp;Obama</a>?&nbsp;

Yep.

The former first lady can now add Grammy winner to her resume, after snagging the award on<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/62nd-grammys-highlights-from-billie-eilish-sweeping-top-awards-to-kobe-bryant-tribute-276821"> music's biggest night </a>for Best Spoken Word Album, for the audiobook of her memoir "Becoming."

Her win on Sunday gives the&nbsp;Obama&nbsp;household its third Grammy, former president Barack&nbsp;Obama&nbsp;has already snagged two Grammys in the same category for his books.

She faced an eccentric group of rivals that include Michael Diamond and Adam Horovitz of the Beastie Boys for "Beastie Boys Book" and John Waters, the director-performer known for his transgressive cult films, for "Mr. Know-It-All."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tonight-is-for-kobe-nba-legend-remembered-at-grammy-awards-hours-aftre-his-death-276826">Also read | 'Tonight is for Kobe': NBA legend remembered at Grammy Awards hours after his death&nbsp;</a>

Released in late 2018, "Becoming" saw the former first lady slam President Donald Trump for questioning her husband's citizenship and promoting the notion that he was born abroad.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/grammys-2020-the-complete-list-of-winners-276734">Also read | Grammys 2020: The complete list of winners</a>

"The whole [birther] thing was crazy and mean-spirited, of course, its underlying bigotry and xenophobia hardly concealed,"&nbsp;Obama&nbsp;wrote.

America's first black first lady also dug into her personal life in her book, expounding on issues including a miscarriage, using in-vitro fertilisation to conceive her daughters and marriage counselling.

Lil Nas X, Lady Gaga, Beyonce and… Michelle Obama? Yep. The former first lady can now add Grammy winner to her resume, after snagging the award on music's biggest night for Best Spoken Word Album, for the audiobook of her memoir "Becoming.

Lil Nas X, Lady Gaga, Beyonce and… Michelle Obama? Yep. The former first lady can now add Grammy winner to her resume, after snagging the award on music's biggest night for Best Spoken Word Album, for the audiobook of her memoir "Becoming." Her win on Sunday gives the Obama household its third Grammy, former president Barack Obama has already snagged two Grammys in the same category for his books. She faced an eccentric group of rivals that include Michael Diamond and Adam Horovitz of the Beastie Boys for "Beastie Boys Book" and John Waters, the director-performer known for his transgressive cult films, for "Mr. Know-It-All." Also read | 'Tonight is for Kobe': NBA legend remembered at Grammy Awards hours after his death Released in late 2018, "Becoming" saw the former first lady slam President Donald Trump for questioning her husband's citizenship and promoting the notion that he was born abroad. Also read | Grammys 2020: The complete list of winners "The whole [birther] thing was crazy and mean-spirited, of course, its underlying bigotry and xenophobia hardly concealed," Obama wrote. America's first black first lady also dug into her personal life in her book, expounding on issues including a miscarriage, using in-vitro fertilisation to conceive her daughters and marriage counselling.

Grammy 2020: Michelle Obama wins best spoken word album award for audiobook 'becoming'

Trump had Ukraine aid withheld, Reveals Bolton's new book

Donald Trump demanded the dismissal of Marie Yovanovitch, the ambassador to Ukraine and a key figure in the president's impeachment trial, according to a video recording released to US media on Saturday.

Donald Trump demanded the dismissal of Marie Yovanovitch, the ambassador to Ukraine and a key figure in the president's impeachment trial, according to a video recording released to US media on Saturday. The footage was reportedly taken during an April 2018 donor dinner at a hotel and released to news outlets by an attorney for Lev Parnas, an indicted associate of Trump's attorney Rudy Giuliani. Parnas and his business partner Igor Fruman are key players in Trump's alleged campaign to pressure the government of Ukraine to dig up dirt on Joe Biden, a potential election opponent for the president. The issue is central to Trump's ongoing impeachment trial in the US Senate. His order to fire the ambassador came after Parnas told him that Yovanovich was an impediment, and claiming that she had privately disparaged the President. Also Read: Donald Trump's Impeachment: Democrats lay out abuse of power case [Former US ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch (Courtesy: AFP) ] "Get rid of her!" Trump says on the tape, reportedly addressing a White House aide at the dining table. "Get her out tomorrow. I don't care. Get her out tomorrow. Take her out. OK? Do it." Images taken at an awkward angle appear at the start of the one hour, 23-minute-long video. The rest of the recording shows a tan background as if the camera were covered, but Trump's distinctive voice is clear. In a TV interview with MSNBC News last week, Parnas said Trump "knew exactly what was going on" with his and Fruman's efforts to pressure Ukrainian authorities to investigate Biden. His appearance came after Democrats released documents that showed Giuliani worked with Parnas to pressure Kyiv to investigate Biden. Both Parnas and Fruman were charged with violating US campaign finance laws in October. The documents also showed the pair, working with Ukrainian officials, trying to force out Yovanovitch, a respected career diplomat who Trump eventually removed in May 2019. Saturday's recording corroborates much of what Parnas said in his TV interview, including that he knew Trump - something the president has denied. More recordings In October Yovanovitch testified to Congress that she was recalled due to "unfounded and false claims by people with clearly questionable motives." Joseph Bondy, an attorney for Parnas, said that he submitted the evidence to investigators in the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives. He also told CNN that Parnas has more recordings and photographs that may be released to the public. The release of the tape increases pressure on US senators to subpoena witnesses for the impeachment trial, a move several polls show has strong support among the US public. White House lawyers began Trump's defence in the impeachment trial on Saturday. They have argued that the president did nothing wrong in his dealings with Ukraine and that US voters - not Congress - should decide his fate. Trump's lawyers will resume his defence on Monday.

Trump caught saying 'get rid' of Ukraine ambassador on tape: report

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu boarded a plane to Washington on Sunday, saying he would "make history" with U.S. President Donald Trump at their Washington meeting on Tuesday.

Netanyahu of Israel Leaves For Washington Saying 'Would Make History With Trump'

White House lawyers began their defense of Donald Trump at his historic Senate impeachment trial on Saturday, saying the president did nothing wrong in his dealings with Ukraine and American voters -- not Congress -- should decide his fate.

White House lawyers began their defense of Donald Trump at his historic Senate impeachment trial on Saturday, saying the president did nothing wrong in his dealings with Ukraine and American voters -- not Congress -- should decide his fate. White House counsel Pat Cipollone said it would be a "completely irresponsible abuse of power" if the Senate follows the lead of the House of Representatives and votes to remove the 45th US president from office. "They're asking you to do something that no Senate has ever done," Cipollone told the 100 senators gathered on a rainy Saturday morning for a rare weekend session at just the third impeachment trial in US history. × Democratic prosecutors from the House, which impeached Trump last month for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, had not convincingly made their case that the president had committed "high crimes and misdemeanors," as demanded by the Constitution, Cipollone said. "We don't believe that they have come anywhere close to meeting their burden for what they're asking you to do," he told a hushed Senate chamber. "We believe when you hear the facts... you will find that the president did absolutely nothing wrong." House prosecutors spent the previous three days laying out a detailed case that Trump withheld military aid to Ukraine and a White House meeting to pressure his Ukrainian counterpart to open an investigation into political rival Joe Biden and the former vice president's son Hunter, who served on the board of a Ukrainian gas company. Adam Schiff, the chief House prosecutor, said the real estate tycoon turned politician poses an "imminent threat" to American democracy and his guiding principle is "Trump first, not America first." Cipollone argued that Democrats were asking the Senate to "tear up all of the ballots" from the 2016 presidential election and attempting to prevent Trump from running for re-election in November. "They are here to perpetrate the most massive interference in an election in American history and we can't allow that to happen," the White House counsel said. "Let the people decide for themselves."

White House lawyers say voters should decide Trump's fate

White House lawyers began presenting their defence of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-legal-team-to-begin-defence-arguments-at-us-senate-impeachment-trial-276533">Donald Trump at his historic Senate impeachment trial </a>on Saturday, saying the president had done nothing wrong in his dealings with Ukraine and accusing Democrats of seeking to overturn the results of the 2016 election.

White House counsel Pat Cipollone took the floor for opening arguments at a rare weekend session of the 100-member Senate, which will decide whether the 45th US president should be removed from office.

Democratic prosecutors from the House of Representatives, which impeached Trump on December 18, had not made their case that the president was guilty of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, Cipollone said at only the third impeachment trial in US history.

"We don't believe that they have come anywhere close to meeting their burden for what they're asking you to do," he told a hushed Senate chamber. "In fact, we believe when you hear the facts... you will find that the president did absolutely nothing wrong."

House prosecutors spent the previous three days laying out a detailed case that Trump withheld military aid to Ukraine to pressure his Ukrainian counterpart to open an investigation into political rival Joe Biden.

Cipollone said Democrats were asking the Senate to "overturn the results of the last election" and remove Trump from the ballot in the upcoming November vote.

"They're asking you to do something that no Senate has ever done," the White House counsel said.

"They're asking you to tear up all of the ballots across this country," he said. "Take that decision away from the American people.

"They are here to perpetuate the most massive interference in an election in American history and we can't allow that to happen."

Insulting nicknames

Shortly before the defence began its presentation, Trump fired off a tweet with insulting nicknames for leading Democrats and told his supporters to tune in to the live television broadcast.

The Republican president also tweeted remarks from supporters lauding his achievements since taking office in January 2017.

Trump's lawyers will have 24 hours spread over three days to present their defence of the president to the Senate, where Republicans hold a 53 to 47 seat majority.

They plan to speak for up to three hours on Saturday and resume their presentation on Monday.

The short session will be welcome to four senators battling for the Democratic presidential nomination, allowing them to return to the campaign trail ahead of the February 3 caucuses in Iowa, which kick off the primary season.

Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar and Colorado Senator Michael Bennet have been forced to remain in Washington for the hearings.

A two-thirds majority, or 67 senators, is required to remove a president from office and Democrats do not appear to have made any inroads in Trump's wall of Republican support.

"I don't believe anything they've said so far is impeachable," Senator Rick Scott told reporters after Democrats wrapped up their case Friday night.

'Trump first'

In his closing arguments, lead House prosecutor Adam Schiff warned that Trump would remain an "imminent threat" to American democracy if he stays in power.

"This is Trump first, not America first," Schiff said.

After the White House concludes its presentation, senators will have 16 hours to pose questions to both sides and consider whether they should subpoena witnesses, something Democrats have sought from the start.

If Democrats gain support for subpoenas, Republicans have threatened to call Joe Biden and his son Hunter to testify because their connections to Ukraine were at the heart of Trump's scheme to tarnish his election rival.

Democrats argued that Trump's refusal to allow top officials to testify and to supply subpoenaed documents to the House Ukraine investigation supported the second charge against him -- obstruction of Congress.

The questions from senators will be submitted in writing to US Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, who is presiding over the trial and will read them out loud.&nbsp;

Americans appear about evenly split on whether Trump should be impeached and removed, though several polls show a healthy majority want the Senate to subpoena witnesses for Trump's trial.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a prominent Trump defender, could bring the trial to a vote on the charges by late next week, and see Trump acquitted along party lines.

White House lawyers began presenting their defence of Donald Trump at his historic Senate impeachment trial on Saturday, saying the president had done nothing wrong in his dealings with Ukraine and accusing Democrats of seeking to overturn the results of the 2016 election.

White House lawyers began presenting their defence of Donald Trump at his historic Senate impeachment trial on Saturday, saying the president had done nothing wrong in his dealings with Ukraine and accusing Democrats of seeking to overturn the results of the 2016 election. White House counsel Pat Cipollone took the floor for opening arguments at a rare weekend session of the 100-member Senate, which will decide whether the 45th US president should be removed from office. Democratic prosecutors from the House of Representatives, which impeached Trump on December 18, had not made their case that the president was guilty of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, Cipollone said at only the third impeachment trial in US history. "We don't believe that they have come anywhere close to meeting their burden for what they're asking you to do," he told a hushed Senate chamber. "In fact, we believe when you hear the facts... you will find that the president did absolutely nothing wrong." House prosecutors spent the previous three days laying out a detailed case that Trump withheld military aid to Ukraine to pressure his Ukrainian counterpart to open an investigation into political rival Joe Biden. Cipollone said Democrats were asking the Senate to "overturn the results of the last election" and remove Trump from the ballot in the upcoming November vote. "They're asking you to do something that no Senate has ever done," the White House counsel said. "They're asking you to tear up all of the ballots across this country," he said. "Take that decision away from the American people. "They are here to perpetuate the most massive interference in an election in American history and we can't allow that to happen." Insulting nicknames Shortly before the defence began its presentation, Trump fired off a tweet with insulting nicknames for leading Democrats and told his supporters to tune in to the live television broadcast. The Republican president also tweeted remarks from supporters lauding his achievements since taking office in January 2017. Trump's lawyers will have 24 hours spread over three days to present their defence of the president to the Senate, where Republicans hold a 53 to 47 seat majority. They plan to speak for up to three hours on Saturday and resume their presentation on Monday. The short session will be welcome to four senators battling for the Democratic presidential nomination, allowing them to return to the campaign trail ahead of the February 3 caucuses in Iowa, which kick off the primary season. Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar and Colorado Senator Michael Bennet have been forced to remain in Washington for the hearings. A two-thirds majority, or 67 senators, is required to remove a president from office and Democrats do not appear to have made any inroads in Trump's wall of Republican support. "I don't believe anything they've said so far is impeachable," Senator Rick Scott told reporters after Democrats wrapped up their case Friday night. 'Trump first' In his closing arguments, lead House prosecutor Adam Schiff warned that Trump would remain an "imminent threat" to American democracy if he stays in power. "This is Trump first, not America first," Schiff said. After the White House concludes its presentation, senators will have 16 hours to pose questions to both sides and consider whether they should subpoena witnesses, something Democrats have sought from the start. If Democrats gain support for subpoenas, Republicans have threatened to call Joe Biden and his son Hunter to testify because their connections to Ukraine were at the heart of Trump's scheme to tarnish his election rival. Democrats argued that Trump's refusal to allow top officials to testify and to supply subpoenaed documents to the House Ukraine investigation supported the second charge against him -- obstruction of Congress. The questions from senators will be submitted in writing to US Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, who is presiding over the trial and will read them out loud. Americans appear about evenly split on whether Trump should be impeached and removed, though several polls show a healthy majority want the Senate to subpoena witnesses for Trump's trial. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a prominent Trump defender, could bring the trial to a vote on the charges by late next week, and see Trump acquitted along party lines.

Trump did 'nothing wrong': White House opens Senate defence

Donald Trump has become the first US president to attend America's largest annual anti-abortion rally. He addressed thousands of protesters at the March for Life near the US Capitol where his impeachment trial is ongoing.

Trump first president to attend anti-abortion rally

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