Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Joe Biden have agreed to remain in "close touch" following a recent call between the two leaders. The conversation focused on key issues such as regional security, the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and efforts to normalize relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors. Both leaders reaffirmed the strong U.S.-Israel alliance and expressed a commitment to continued dialogue on mutual concerns. Their close communication underscores the importance of cooperation in navigating the complexities of Middle East diplomacy and security.

Benjamin Netanyahu, Joe Biden To Stay In 'Close Touch' After Call

President Biden has urged Israel to minimise harm in Lebanon as President Biden and Netanyahu engaged over a phone call that lasted for 30 mins.. This conversation comes at a pivotal time, as tensions over Iran's nuclear ambitions have escalated, and both nations face increasing pressure to address Tehran's behavior in the Middle East.

Biden, Bibi Discuss Israel's Retaliation Plan Against Iran Over Phone Call

US President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday, for talks expected to include a discussion of Israeli plans for a retaliatory strike on Iran.

Biden, Netanyahu Discuss Israel's Retaliation Against Iran

A blistering new book reveals the extent of U.S. President Joe Biden's frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. American journalist Bob Woodward’s upcoming book “War,” reportedly details the tumultuous relationship between Biden and Bibi even as the U.S. publicly extends support for Israel for its war in Gaza.

Biden Abuse Hits Netanyahu as White House Draws Nuclear Line on Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a highly-anticipated telephonic conversation with US President Joe Biden&nbsp;on Wednesday (Oct 9) as Vice President Kamala Harris also joined the call, the premier's office announced, as per a report in The Times of Israel.&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is now in conversation with the President of the United States Joe Biden, at the prime minister's office in Jerusalem," Netanyahu's office said in a statement.Netanyahu was joined by&nbsp;diplomatic adviser Ophir Falk, Military Secretary Roman Gofman, Chief of Staff Tzachi Braverman, and deputy head of National Security Council Gil Reich among others.&nbsp; 
 
Netanyahu and Biden last spoke on August 21, according to a White House statement. Wednesday's phone call is important as it comes in the backdrop of Israel preparing to respond to Iran for firing nearly 200 ballistic missiles on its territory last week.&nbsp;

Biden has cautioned Israel against attempting to target Iran's nuclear sites, which would risk major retaliation and lead to a regional war, thereby destabilising the world. 
 
The phone call between Netanyahu, Biden and Harris ended&nbsp;after 50 minutes, the PM’s office shared later.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu has already warned that Lebanon, which houses the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant outfit, could face a "long war like we see in Gaza". As for Iran, the Israeli PM has kept cards close to the chest, but reports indicate that&nbsp;a major reply is in the offing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-benjamin-netanyahu-visits-jerusalem-memorial-765318">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Benjamin Netanyahu Visits Jerusalem Memorial</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-benjamin-netanyahu-visits-jerusalem-memorial-765318/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<h2>Biden calls Netanyahu a liar&nbsp;</h2>

A new book by veteran US journalist Bob Woodward revealed that not all has been courteous between the two leaders on phone calls in recent months.&nbsp;According to Woodward, Biden called Netanyahu&nbsp;a "f****ing liar' after&nbsp;Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops launched a ground operation in Rafah despite the American president's protest.&nbsp;

“What’s your strategy, man?” Biden questioned Bibi during the April phone call.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-calls-netanyahu-that-son-of-a-bh-and-bad-guy-behind-closed-doors-765743">Also read |&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-calls-netanyahu-that-son-of-a-bh-and-bad-guy-behind-closed-doors-765743">Biden calls Netanyahu 'that son of a b***h' and 'bad guy' behind closed doors</a>

The book added that during a private meeting with one of his associates, Biden called Netanyahu a 'bad guy' and 'that son of a b***h'.&nbsp;

"That son of a b***h, Bibi Netanyahu, he’s a bad guy. He’s a bad fucking guy!” read the book's excerpt published by&nbsp;CNN.

In another phone call, Biden scolded Netanyahu and told the Israeli PM to "stop bullshi**ing" him&nbsp;as talks surrounding the hostage deal reached an impasse

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a highly-anticipated telephonic conversation with US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (Oct 9) as Vice President Kamala Harris also joined the call, the premier's office announced, as per a report in The Times of Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a highly-anticipated telephonic conversation with US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (Oct 9) as Vice President Kamala Harris also joined the call, the premier's office announced, as per a report in The Times of Israel. "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is now in conversation with the President of the United States Joe Biden, at the prime minister's office in Jerusalem," Netanyahu's office said in a statement.Netanyahu was joined by diplomatic adviser Ophir Falk, Military Secretary Roman Gofman, Chief of Staff Tzachi Braverman, and deputy head of National Security Council Gil Reich among others. Netanyahu and Biden last spoke on August 21, according to a White House statement. Wednesday's phone call is important as it comes in the backdrop of Israel preparing to respond to Iran for firing nearly 200 ballistic missiles on its territory last week. Biden has cautioned Israel against attempting to target Iran's nuclear sites, which would risk major retaliation and lead to a regional war, thereby destabilising the world. The phone call between Netanyahu, Biden and Harris ended after 50 minutes, the PM’s office shared later. Meanwhile, Netanyahu has already warned that Lebanon, which houses the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant outfit, could face a "long war like we see in Gaza". As for Iran, the Israeli PM has kept cards close to the chest, but reports indicate that a major reply is in the offing. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Benjamin Netanyahu Visits Jerusalem Memorial × Biden calls Netanyahu a liar A new book by veteran US journalist Bob Woodward revealed that not all has been courteous between the two leaders on phone calls in recent months. According to Woodward, Biden called Netanyahu a "f****ing liar' after Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops launched a ground operation in Rafah despite the American president's protest. “What’s your strategy, man?” Biden questioned Bibi during the April phone call. Also read | Biden calls Netanyahu 'that son of a b***h' and 'bad guy' behind closed doors The book added that during a private meeting with one of his associates, Biden called Netanyahu a 'bad guy' and 'that son of a b***h'. "That son of a b***h, Bibi Netanyahu, he’s a bad guy. He’s a bad fucking guy!” read the book's excerpt published by CNN. In another phone call, Biden scolded Netanyahu and told the Israeli PM to "stop bullshi**ing" him as talks surrounding the hostage deal reached an impasse (With inputs from agencies)

Biden, Netanyahu speak for first time since August as Israeli response against Iran looms

The US Supreme Court declined on Monday to hear a bid by President Joe Biden's administration to enforce in Texas federal guidance requiring hospitals to perform abortions if needed to stabilise a patient's emergency medical condition.

The US Supreme Court declined on Monday to hear a bid by President Joe Biden's administration to enforce in Texas federal guidance requiring hospitals to perform abortions if needed to stabilise a patient's emergency medical condition. The justices turned away the Justice Department's appeal of a lower court's decision that halted enforcement of the guidance in Texas, where a Republican-backed near-total ban on abortion is in effect, and against members of two anti-abortion medical associations. The Biden administration issued the guidance in July 2022 to protect access to abortion after the Supreme Court's conservative majority the previous month overturned the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that had legalised abortion nationwide. The guidance reminded healthcare providers across the country of their obligations under a 1986 federal law called the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labour Act (EMTALA) to ensure Medicare-participating hospitals offer emergency care stabilising patients regardless of their ability to pay. Medicare is the government healthcare program for the elderly. Hospitals that violate EMTALA risk losing Medicare funding. The guidance made clear that under that law physicians must provide a woman an abortion if needed to resolve a medical emergency and stabilise the patient even in states where the procedure is banned, and that the measure preempts state bans that offer no exceptions for medical emergencies or with exceptions that are too narrow. Texas law prohibits abortions unless the pregnancy places the woman at risk of death or "substantial impairment of a major bodily function." Republican-governed Texas and two anti-abortion medical associations - the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians & Gynecologists and the Christian Medical & Dental Associations, sued the administration, arguing that the guidance unlawfully purports to compel healthcare providers to perform abortions. US District Judge James Wesley Hendrix in 2022 blocked enforcement of the guidance, finding that it is an unlawful interpretation of the EMTALA statute, and would allow abortions beyond what is permitted by Texas law. Also read: Largest evacuation drive ordered in Florida as Hurricane Milton nears The New Orleans-based 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals on Jan. 2 upheld Hendrix's decision, ruling that "EMTALA does not mandate any specific type of medical treatment, let alone abortion." The 5th Circuit's decision came a month after the top court in Texas ruled against a woman who was seeking an emergency abortion of her non-viable pregnancy. Abortion rights advocates have challenged the scope of abortion ban exceptions in several states due to uncertainty, including among physicians, about what medical emergencies during pregnancy would permit health providers to perform the procedure. In a similar case in June, the Supreme Court permitted, for the time being, abortions to be performed in Idaho when pregnant women are facing medical emergencies. The Supreme Court's 6-3 ruling in the Idaho case revived a federal judge's decision that EMTALA takes precedence over Idaho's Republican-backed near-total abortion ban when the two conflict. While the justices lifted a block they had placed on the judge's ruling in the case, they did not resolve the dispute on its merits, opting instead to dismiss it as "improvidently granted." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US Supreme Court rejects Biden's bid to enforce emergency abortions in Texas

US President Joe Biden called his Israeli counterpart, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a bad guy and 'that son of a b***h' during one of the private meetings with his associates, according to an excerpt in journalist&nbsp;Bob Woodward’s upcoming book, 'War'.

Woodward's book offers a remarkable look behind the scenes at Biden's profanity-ridden outbursts in the White House when there is no public eye on him. According to Woodward, Biden made the remark against Netanyahu in the spring of 2024 as Israel's war in Gaza intensified.&nbsp;

"That son of a b***h, Bibi Netanyahu, he’s a bad guy. He’s a bad fucking guy!” read the book's excerpt published by CNN.

After Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops launched a ground operation in Rafah, Biden yelled at Bibi and called him a "f****ing liar'. During an April phone call, Biden asked Netanyahu: “What’s your strategy, man?”

Notably, this is not the first instance when Biden has seemingly used swear words at Netanyahu. According to reports, during a phone call between the two leaders in August, Biden told Bibi to&nbsp;"stop bullshi**ing" him.&nbsp;

Biden&nbsp;scolded the Israeli PM as he felt that&nbsp;Netanyahu was intentionally stalling the truce talks to benefit his position in the country's internal politics.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-bullshitting-biden-scolds-netanyahu-as-hostage-deal-talks-stall-746929">Also read |&nbsp;'Stop bullshi**ing': Biden scolds Netanyahu as hostage deal talks stall</a>

<h2>Biden's colourful vocabulary&nbsp;</h2>

Biden using the f-word is not limited to Netanyahu. Woodward reveals that the Democrat leader often swears at Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

“That fucking Putin," Biden told his advisers in the Oval Office, shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine.&nbsp;“Putin is evil. We are dealing with the epitome of evil.”

Watch |&nbsp;US Elections: President Biden's twin Gaffes fan more speculations about acuity

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-president-bidens-twin-gaffes-fan-more-speculations-about-acuity-740335/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As for his predecessor Donald Trump, Biden has a vulgar nickname whenever speaking about him in private.&nbsp;

“That f—king a—hole” is how Biden refers to Trump, the book further reveals.&nbsp;

Notably, in public,&nbsp;Biden usually refers to Trump in roundabout ways, such as “my predecessor” or “the former guy”.&nbsp;

The book, citing a Trump aide, claims that&nbsp;there have been “maybe as many as seven” calls between Trump and Putin since Trump left the White House in 2021.

Woodward's new book hits the shelves on October 15 and even contains a first-hand account of Biden and his national security team tanking the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan as well as his confrontation with Putin.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden called his Israeli counterpart, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a bad guy and 'that son of a b***h' during one of the private meetings with his associates, according to an excerpt in journalist Bob Woodward’s upcoming book, 'War'.

US President Joe Biden called his Israeli counterpart, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a bad guy and 'that son of a b***h' during one of the private meetings with his associates, according to an excerpt in journalist Bob Woodward’s upcoming book, 'War'. Woodward's book offers a remarkable look behind the scenes at Biden's profanity-ridden outbursts in the White House when there is no public eye on him. According to Woodward, Biden made the remark against Netanyahu in the spring of 2024 as Israel's war in Gaza intensified. "That son of a b***h, Bibi Netanyahu, he’s a bad guy. He’s a bad fucking guy!” read the book's excerpt published by CNN. After Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops launched a ground operation in Rafah, Biden yelled at Bibi and called him a "f****ing liar'. During an April phone call, Biden asked Netanyahu: “What’s your strategy, man?” Notably, this is not the first instance when Biden has seemingly used swear words at Netanyahu. According to reports, during a phone call between the two leaders in August, Biden told Bibi to "stop bullshi**ing" him. Biden scolded the Israeli PM as he felt that Netanyahu was intentionally stalling the truce talks to benefit his position in the country's internal politics. Also read | 'Stop bullshi**ing': Biden scolds Netanyahu as hostage deal talks stall Biden's colourful vocabulary Biden using the f-word is not limited to Netanyahu. Woodward reveals that the Democrat leader often swears at Russian President Vladimir Putin. “That fucking Putin," Biden told his advisers in the Oval Office, shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine. “Putin is evil. We are dealing with the epitome of evil.” Watch | US Elections: President Biden's twin Gaffes fan more speculations about acuity × As for his predecessor Donald Trump, Biden has a vulgar nickname whenever speaking about him in private. “That f—king a—hole” is how Biden refers to Trump, the book further reveals. Notably, in public, Biden usually refers to Trump in roundabout ways, such as “my predecessor” or “the former guy”. The book, citing a Trump aide, claims that there have been “maybe as many as seven” calls between Trump and Putin since Trump left the White House in 2021. Woodward's new book hits the shelves on October 15 and even contains a first-hand account of Biden and his national security team tanking the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan as well as his confrontation with Putin. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden calls Netanyahu 'that son of a b***h' and 'bad guy' behind closed doors

Hurricane Milton, the Category 4 storm headed toward the southeastern United States, could be the worst to hit Florida in a century, President Joe Biden said Tuesday (Oct 8).

"This could be the worst storm to hit Florida in over a century. God willing it won't be, but that's what it's looking like right now," Biden told reporters at the White House.

"You should evacuate now, now, now. You should have already evacuated. It's a matter of life and death, and that's not hyperbole," he said as advisers briefed him on the storm.

Biden said he had postponed a planned trip to Angola and Germany this week because "I just don't think I can be out of the country at this time."

He said he would try to reschedule the visits.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-intensifying-to-category-5-hurricane-milton-targets-florida-765412">Watch |&nbsp;US: Intensifying To Category 5, Hurricane Milton Targets Florida</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-intensifying-to-category-5-hurricane-milton-targets-florida-765412/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Biden also condemned misinformation that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and his party have spread about hurricane relief efforts ahead of next month's US election.

"Those who do it, do it to try to damage the administration," Biden said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-milton-strongest-of-2024-might-have-breached-cat-6-cutoff-expert-says-765514">Also read |&nbsp;Hurricane Milton, 'strongest of 2024', might have breached 'Cat 6' cutoff, expert says</a>

He said that "we can take care of ourselves" but expressed concern about the impact that it could have on the ground.&nbsp;

"It's un-American. It really is. People are scared to death. People know their lives are at stake, all that they've worked for, all that they own, all that they value," he said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hurricane Milton, the Category 4 storm headed toward the southeastern United States, could be the worst to hit Florida in a century, President Joe Biden said Tuesday (Oct 8).

Hurricane Milton, the Category 4 storm headed toward the southeastern United States, could be the worst to hit Florida in a century, President Joe Biden said Tuesday (Oct 8). "This could be the worst storm to hit Florida in over a century. God willing it won't be, but that's what it's looking like right now," Biden told reporters at the White House. "You should evacuate now, now, now. You should have already evacuated. It's a matter of life and death, and that's not hyperbole," he said as advisers briefed him on the storm. Biden said he had postponed a planned trip to Angola and Germany this week because "I just don't think I can be out of the country at this time." He said he would try to reschedule the visits. Watch | US: Intensifying To Category 5, Hurricane Milton Targets Florida × Biden also condemned misinformation that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and his party have spread about hurricane relief efforts ahead of next month's US election. "Those who do it, do it to try to damage the administration," Biden said. Also read | Hurricane Milton, 'strongest of 2024', might have breached 'Cat 6' cutoff, expert says He said that "we can take care of ourselves" but expressed concern about the impact that it could have on the ground. "It's un-American. It really is. People are scared to death. People know their lives are at stake, all that they've worked for, all that they own, all that they value," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Biden warns Hurricane Milton could be Florida's worst storm in century

Democratic presidential nominee and United States Vice President&nbsp;Kamala Harris refused to call Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a close ally during an interview with American broadcaster CBS, covering wide-ranging issues, aired on Monday (Oct 7).

Speaking about&nbsp;the Russia-Ukraine war, the current vice president&nbsp;said she would not meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin for peace talks if Ukraine were not also represented. She ruled out a bilateral meeting with Putin, saying, "Without Ukraine? No."&nbsp;

Further, she defended her economic plans while getting grilled during CBS'&nbsp;60 Minutes prime-time election special.&nbsp;

As the presidential race between Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and Harris tightens ahead of the November elections, the VP has increased her media presence and recently appeared for podcasts, talk radio, a battleground state town hall, daytime television, and late-night shows.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-white-house-disgusted-as-trump-blames-illegal-immigrants-for-bad-genes-in-us-765407">Also read:&nbsp;Watch: White House 'disgusted' as Trump blames illegal immigrants for ‘bad genes in US’</a>

Before the interview was aired, CBS correspondent Scott Pelley detailed his attempts to secure a similar 60 Minutes sit-down with Trump.&nbsp;

Pelley said, "Unfortunately last week, Trump cancelled", adding that the Republican candidate's&nbsp;campaign provided “shifting explanations” for why he declined to participate, including that the former US president&nbsp;did not want to be fact-checked.

Harris, during the interview with CBS'&nbsp;Bill Whitaker, was pressed on how she would pay for her economic proposals, including her plans to build millions of new housing units, tax breaks for new parents, and $25,000 down-payment assistance for new homebuyers.&nbsp;

She vowed to raise taxes on the country's billionaires and biggest corporations.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;U.S. Presidential Election: How Swing States Can Make Or Break Campaigns | WION originals

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-presidential-election-how-swing-states-can-make-or-break-campaigns-wion-originals-765487/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, Whitaker found it dubious and said, "We’re dealing with the real world here."&nbsp;

He asked how Harris would persuade Congress to raise taxes on the country’s highest earners. To this, Harris said there were lawmakers who would listen to her pitch if she were president.&nbsp;

“I cannot afford to be myopic in terms of how I think about strengthening America’s economy,” the Democratic presidential candidate&nbsp;said in the interview. “Let me tell you something. I am a devout public servant. You know that I’m also a capitalist, and I know the limitations of government.”

Shifting to the question of whether Netanyahu was “a real close ally", Harris said, "The better question is: Do we have an important alliance between the American people and the Israeli people? And the answer to that question is yes.”

She added Israel had a right to defend itself, but went on to say that “far too many innocent Palestinians have been killed.”

Israel’s war has levelled Gaza and killed almost 42,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza&nbsp;health ministry.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Democratic presidential nominee and United States Vice President Kamala Harris refused to call Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a close ally during an interview with American broadcaster CBS, covering wide-ranging issues, aired on Monday (Oct 7).

Democratic presidential nominee and United States Vice President Kamala Harris refused to call Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a close ally during an interview with American broadcaster CBS, covering wide-ranging issues, aired on Monday (Oct 7). Speaking about the Russia-Ukraine war, the current vice president said she would not meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin for peace talks if Ukraine were not also represented. She ruled out a bilateral meeting with Putin, saying, "Without Ukraine? No." Further, she defended her economic plans while getting grilled during CBS' 60 Minutes prime-time election special. As the presidential race between Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and Harris tightens ahead of the November elections, the VP has increased her media presence and recently appeared for podcasts, talk radio, a battleground state town hall, daytime television, and late-night shows. Also read: Watch: White House 'disgusted' as Trump blames illegal immigrants for ‘bad genes in US’ Before the interview was aired, CBS correspondent Scott Pelley detailed his attempts to secure a similar 60 Minutes sit-down with Trump. Pelley said, "Unfortunately last week, Trump cancelled", adding that the Republican candidate's campaign provided “shifting explanations” for why he declined to participate, including that the former US president did not want to be fact-checked. Harris, during the interview with CBS' Bill Whitaker, was pressed on how she would pay for her economic proposals, including her plans to build millions of new housing units, tax breaks for new parents, and $25,000 down-payment assistance for new homebuyers. She vowed to raise taxes on the country's billionaires and biggest corporations. Watch | U.S. Presidential Election: How Swing States Can Make Or Break Campaigns | WION originals × However, Whitaker found it dubious and said, "We’re dealing with the real world here." He asked how Harris would persuade Congress to raise taxes on the country’s highest earners. To this, Harris said there were lawmakers who would listen to her pitch if she were president. “I cannot afford to be myopic in terms of how I think about strengthening America’s economy,” the Democratic presidential candidate said in the interview. “Let me tell you something. I am a devout public servant. You know that I’m also a capitalist, and I know the limitations of government.” Shifting to the question of whether Netanyahu was “a real close ally", Harris said, "The better question is: Do we have an important alliance between the American people and the Israeli people? And the answer to that question is yes.” She added Israel had a right to defend itself, but went on to say that “far too many innocent Palestinians have been killed.” Israel’s war has levelled Gaza and killed almost 42,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza health ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris refuses to call Netanyahu 'close ally' during 60 minutes interview

US President Joe Biden said he expects the 2024 election will be “free and fair,” but cast doubt on whether it would be “peaceful,” citing former President Donald Trump’s rhetoric.

US President Joe Biden Says He Isn’t Sure 2024 Election Will Be Peaceful

United States President Joe Biden said he&nbsp;is unsure whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is avoiding the Gaza ceasefire deal to influence the US presidential elections in November.&nbsp;The US president made the statement in response to a&nbsp;question during a press&nbsp;conference at the White House on Friday (Oct 4).

"Whether he’s trying to influence the election, I don’t know - but I’m not counting on that," Biden said.&nbsp;

The US president bluntly added, "No administration has helped Israel more than I have. None, none, none," he said. "And I think [Netanyahu] should remember that."

The Biden administration for months now has ignored the narrative that Israel could intentionally hold up the peace deal for Gaza and instead blamed the several breakdowns in talks with Hamas on the Palestinian militant group.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-not-expecting-ceasefire-before-joe-biden-leaves-white-houses-760240">Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: US not expecting ceasefire before Joe Biden leaves White House</a>

Meanwhile, some Democrats (Biden's party)&nbsp;have raised concerns that Netanyahu is ignoring the calls to negotiate a hostage release and ceasefire deal to harm the party's chances of winning the presidential election in&nbsp;November.

Earlier this week, Democratic Senator Chris Murphy told CNN: “I don’t think you have to be a hopeless cynic to read some of Israel’s actions, some of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s actions, as connected to the American election.”

According to the polls, the intensifying West Asia crisis and the failure to secure a diplomatic agreement are affecting Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who replaced him as the Democratic presidential candidate.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Iran- Israel War: US President Biden Says, 'Will Not Support Attack On Iran's Nuclear Sites' |US not expecting ceasefire before Joe Biden leaves White House

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-us-president-biden-says-will-not-support-attack-on-irans-nuclear-sites-764193/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Biden has been pushing for a diplomatic agreement between Israel and Hamas for months now and on several occasions said that they are close to making a deal.&nbsp;

A deal before the election would be a major boost for the president and the Democratic Party, however, it appears to be increasingly unlikely.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu rejected the White House's suggestion that the deal was close. "Hamas is not there with a deal. There’s not a deal in the making, unfortunately,” the Israeli prime minister said earlier this month just hours after a US official said it was 90 per cent complete.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden said he is unsure whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is avoiding the Gaza ceasefire deal to influence the US presidential elections in November.

United States President Joe Biden said he is unsure whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is avoiding the Gaza ceasefire deal to influence the US presidential elections in November. The US president made the statement in response to a question during a press conference at the White House on Friday (Oct 4). "Whether he’s trying to influence the election, I don’t know - but I’m not counting on that," Biden said. The US president bluntly added, "No administration has helped Israel more than I have. None, none, none," he said. "And I think [Netanyahu] should remember that." The Biden administration for months now has ignored the narrative that Israel could intentionally hold up the peace deal for Gaza and instead blamed the several breakdowns in talks with Hamas on the Palestinian militant group. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: US not expecting ceasefire before Joe Biden leaves White House Meanwhile, some Democrats (Biden's party) have raised concerns that Netanyahu is ignoring the calls to negotiate a hostage release and ceasefire deal to harm the party's chances of winning the presidential election in November. Earlier this week, Democratic Senator Chris Murphy told CNN: “I don’t think you have to be a hopeless cynic to read some of Israel’s actions, some of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s actions, as connected to the American election.” According to the polls, the intensifying West Asia crisis and the failure to secure a diplomatic agreement are affecting Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who replaced him as the Democratic presidential candidate. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Iran- Israel War: US President Biden Says, 'Will Not Support Attack On Iran's Nuclear Sites' |US not expecting ceasefire before Joe Biden leaves White House × Biden has been pushing for a diplomatic agreement between Israel and Hamas for months now and on several occasions said that they are close to making a deal. A deal before the election would be a major boost for the president and the Democratic Party, however, it appears to be increasingly unlikely. Meanwhile, Netanyahu rejected the White House's suggestion that the deal was close. "Hamas is not there with a deal. There’s not a deal in the making, unfortunately,” the Israeli prime minister said earlier this month just hours after a US official said it was 90 per cent complete. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden unsure if Israel's Netanyahu is delaying Gaza peace deal to influence US elections

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;has announced that he will present his country’s "victory plan" at an upcoming meeting of Kyiv’s supporters in Ramstein, Germany next week, Saturday (Oct 12).

While specific details of the plan have not been disclosed publicly, it has already been shared with United States President Joe Biden and the candidates running in the&nbsp;US presidential election. The meeting, to be held at the US airbase in Ramstein, close to Frankfurt, will bring together more than 50 of Ukraine's allies, including Biden himself.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-agencies-warn-of-threats-on-upcoming-first-anniversary-of-gaza-war-764713">US agencies warn of threats on upcoming first anniversary of Gaza war</a>

“We are preparing for the 25th Ramstein meeting on October 12, which will be the first to take place at the leaders' level,” Zelensky&nbsp;said in a post&nbsp;Telegram, on Saturday (Oct 5). He added that he would outline “clear, concrete steps towards a just end of the war,” stressing that Russia can be stopped by “the determination of our partners and the strengthening of Ukraine.”

Kyiv has referenced this plan multiple times over recent months as the war with Russian forces, which invaded Ukraine nearly 1,000 days ago, continues. According to a US State Department spokesperson, the plan includes "a number of productive steps" that the US intends to discuss with Ukraine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-unsure-whether-netanyahu-delaying-peace-gaza-deal-to-influence-us-elections-764783">Biden unsure whether Netanyahu delaying Gaza deal to influence US elections</a>

However, a report by the Wall Street Journal, citing unnamed US officials, claims the plan does not offer a full strategy for defeating Russian forces. Instead, it reiterates Ukraine’s requests for additional weapons and permission to strike targets inside Russia using Western long-range weaponry.

At the last Ramstein meeting in September, Zelensky&nbsp;asked for more military aid to fend off Russian advances.

The&nbsp;upcoming meeting in Germany comes at a crucial time for Ukraine, just ahead of the US election in November, which could potentially affect the support Kyiv receives from its key ally.

Republican candidate Donald Trump has been openly critical of the large sums of money the US has provided to Ukraine and has echoed some of the narratives Russia has promoted about the conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that he will present his country’s "victory plan" at an upcoming meeting of Kyiv’s supporters in Ramstein, Germany next week, Saturday (Oct 12).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that he will present his country’s "victory plan" at an upcoming meeting of Kyiv’s supporters in Ramstein, Germany next week, Saturday (Oct 12). While specific details of the plan have not been disclosed publicly, it has already been shared with United States President Joe Biden and the candidates running in the US presidential election. The meeting, to be held at the US airbase in Ramstein, close to Frankfurt, will bring together more than 50 of Ukraine's allies, including Biden himself. Also read: US agencies warn of threats on upcoming first anniversary of Gaza war “We are preparing for the 25th Ramstein meeting on October 12, which will be the first to take place at the leaders' level,” Zelensky said in a post Telegram, on Saturday (Oct 5). He added that he would outline “clear, concrete steps towards a just end of the war,” stressing that Russia can be stopped by “the determination of our partners and the strengthening of Ukraine.” Kyiv has referenced this plan multiple times over recent months as the war with Russian forces, which invaded Ukraine nearly 1,000 days ago, continues. According to a US State Department spokesperson, the plan includes "a number of productive steps" that the US intends to discuss with Ukraine. Also read: Biden unsure whether Netanyahu delaying Gaza deal to influence US elections However, a report by the Wall Street Journal, citing unnamed US officials, claims the plan does not offer a full strategy for defeating Russian forces. Instead, it reiterates Ukraine’s requests for additional weapons and permission to strike targets inside Russia using Western long-range weaponry. At the last Ramstein meeting in September, Zelensky asked for more military aid to fend off Russian advances. The upcoming meeting in Germany comes at a crucial time for Ukraine, just ahead of the US election in November, which could potentially affect the support Kyiv receives from its key ally. Republican candidate Donald Trump has been openly critical of the large sums of money the US has provided to Ukraine and has echoed some of the narratives Russia has promoted about the conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine’s Zelensky to unveil 'victory plan' at crucial Ramstein meeting with Biden and Western allies

Russia to raise defense budget by 25% to the highest level on record. Anger in Moscow as the public reacts to Russia spending 40% of its budget on defense. Civilians say Russia’s plan to hike defense spending next year ‘is an outrage’. Russia’s defense and security budget has more money than welfare and education combined. Watch to know more!

Moscow Rages As Russia Raises Defense Budget By 25 Percent Amid Ukraine War | WION Originals

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday witnessed Hurricane Helene's catastrophic destruction firsthand and Vice President Kamala Harris distributed aid to needy families, as thousands of federal responders joined all-out efforts to rescue residents and care for millions in the disaster.

Biden flew into the Carolinas and his deputy headed to Georgia after Harris's election rival Donald Trump sought to turn their handling of the disaster -- which has left at least 162 people dead in six states -- into campaign fodder.

Biden arrived in South Carolina and was briefed on the sprawling rescue and recovery effort -- an operation featuring more than 10,000 federal officials, emergency responders and National Guard across the US southeast.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:179,&quot;w&quot;:576,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2020}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-155-dead-from-hurricane-helene-biden-and-harris-to-visit-hard-hit-states-763741">At least 155 dead from Hurricane Helene; Biden and Harris to visit hard-hit states</a>

He then flew by helicopter over the flood-hit city of Asheville, North Carolina, where staggering destruction was visible from the air, including collapsed bridges, lakes filled with debris, buildings demolished and roads washed away.

"What I saw was heartbreaking," Biden said on X.

"But back on the ground, we're witnessing neighbours helping neighbours, volunteers and workers standing side-by-side, people leaning on each other. That's America."

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, travelling with the president, described Helene as a storm of "historic strength" that brought calamitous flooding to cities and remote mountain communities.

"We have towns that have disappeared, literally," he said. "This is a multi-billion-dollar, multi-year recovery."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:426,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2267}">Towns and villages cut off&nbsp;</h2>

Biden, who has approved major disaster declarations in several states, announced the deployment of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to North Carolina to help "speed up the delivery of life-saving supplies" including food, water, and medicine to isolated communities.

While getting briefed in the state, he spoke of Washington's obligation to provide help.

"In a moment like this we put politics aside," he said. "The nation has your back."

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:600,&quot;w&quot;:789,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2441}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/130-dead-from-hurricane-helene-biden-announced-his-visit-to-storm-hit-north-carolina-amid-trump-controversy-763423">130 dead from Hurricane Helene, Biden announced his visit to storm-hit North Carolina amid Trump controversy</a>

But he also warned how climate change is increasing the severity and frequency of extreme weather events.

"Nobody can deny the impact of the climate crisis anymore, at least I hope they don't," Biden said. "They must be brain-dead if they do."&nbsp;

Harris, who replaced Biden as the Democratic presidential nominee for the November 5 election, flew separately to the southern state of Georgia, which has also been badly hit.

She visited an emergency operations center in Augusta before surveying a neighborhood that suffered what she called "extraordinary" devastation.

Debris was scattered across the road and trees lay crashed onto homes near where the vice president comforted grieving residents.

Harris assured Georgians the federal government was coordinating with local authorities to "get folks the support and the relief that they so desperately need and so rightly deserve."

"We are here for the long haul," she said.

Harris also helped hand out styrofoam containers of food to impacted families at a shelter and received loud cheers when she departed.

North Carolina and Georgia are two of the seven crucial swing states likely to decide the result of the US election. Early voting has already begun in several states.

The White House announced Biden will travel Thursday to Florida, where Helene roared ashore last week as a Category 4 hurricane, and Georgia.

The storm's torrential rains have caused huge damage in the Appalachian mountains, with towns and villages cut off.

In east Tennessee, massive searches were underway near the Nolichucky River, where water flow spiked to record levels, leading to ferocious flooding.

"There are people still missing," Governor Bill Lee told a briefing. "We're in the middle of what is a remarkably difficult and tragic unfolding in east Tennessee."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1239,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3080}">'He's lying'</h2>

The Biden and Harris visits come a day after vice presidential candidates J.D. Vance and Tim Walz faced off in a TV debate, where they acknowledged common ground about the need for a robust storm response.

But Republican former president Trump earlier sought to make political capital out of the disaster, accusing Biden's administration, without evidence, of ignoring the crisis and denying help to Trump supporters.

Biden told reporters Monday that Trump was "lying" and termed his attacks "irresponsible."

The political storm over Helene comes as Biden and Harris endure a series of crises with barely a month until the knife-edge election.

As they coordinate the hurricane response, Biden and Harris are also contending with escalating tensions between Iran and Israel and a dockworkers' strike that threatens the country's economy.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday witnessed Hurricane Helene's catastrophic destruction firsthand and Vice President Kamala Harris distributed aid to needy families, as thousands of federal responders joined all-out efforts to rescue residents and care for millions in the disaster.

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday witnessed Hurricane Helene's catastrophic destruction firsthand and Vice President Kamala Harris distributed aid to needy families, as thousands of federal responders joined all-out efforts to rescue residents and care for millions in the disaster. Biden flew into the Carolinas and his deputy headed to Georgia after Harris's election rival Donald Trump sought to turn their handling of the disaster -- which has left at least 162 people dead in six states -- into campaign fodder. Biden arrived in South Carolina and was briefed on the sprawling rescue and recovery effort -- an operation featuring more than 10,000 federal officials, emergency responders and National Guard across the US southeast. Also read | At least 155 dead from Hurricane Helene; Biden and Harris to visit hard-hit states He then flew by helicopter over the flood-hit city of Asheville, North Carolina, where staggering destruction was visible from the air, including collapsed bridges, lakes filled with debris, buildings demolished and roads washed away. "What I saw was heartbreaking," Biden said on X. "But back on the ground, we're witnessing neighbours helping neighbours, volunteers and workers standing side-by-side, people leaning on each other. That's America." Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, travelling with the president, described Helene as a storm of "historic strength" that brought calamitous flooding to cities and remote mountain communities. "We have towns that have disappeared, literally," he said. "This is a multi-billion-dollar, multi-year recovery." Towns and villages cut off Biden, who has approved major disaster declarations in several states, announced the deployment of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to North Carolina to help "speed up the delivery of life-saving supplies" including food, water, and medicine to isolated communities. While getting briefed in the state, he spoke of Washington's obligation to provide help. "In a moment like this we put politics aside," he said. "The nation has your back." Also read | 130 dead from Hurricane Helene, Biden announced his visit to storm-hit North Carolina amid Trump controversy But he also warned how climate change is increasing the severity and frequency of extreme weather events. "Nobody can deny the impact of the climate crisis anymore, at least I hope they don't," Biden said. "They must be brain-dead if they do." Harris, who replaced Biden as the Democratic presidential nominee for the November 5 election, flew separately to the southern state of Georgia, which has also been badly hit. She visited an emergency operations center in Augusta before surveying a neighborhood that suffered what she called "extraordinary" devastation. Debris was scattered across the road and trees lay crashed onto homes near where the vice president comforted grieving residents. Harris assured Georgians the federal government was coordinating with local authorities to "get folks the support and the relief that they so desperately need and so rightly deserve." "We are here for the long haul," she said. Harris also helped hand out styrofoam containers of food to impacted families at a shelter and received loud cheers when she departed. North Carolina and Georgia are two of the seven crucial swing states likely to decide the result of the US election. Early voting has already begun in several states. The White House announced Biden will travel Thursday to Florida, where Helene roared ashore last week as a Category 4 hurricane, and Georgia. The storm's torrential rains have caused huge damage in the Appalachian mountains, with towns and villages cut off. In east Tennessee, massive searches were underway near the Nolichucky River, where water flow spiked to record levels, leading to ferocious flooding. "There are people still missing," Governor Bill Lee told a briefing. "We're in the middle of what is a remarkably difficult and tragic unfolding in east Tennessee." 'He's lying' The Biden and Harris visits come a day after vice presidential candidates J.D. Vance and Tim Walz faced off in a TV debate, where they acknowledged common ground about the need for a robust storm response. But Republican former president Trump earlier sought to make political capital out of the disaster, accusing Biden's administration, without evidence, of ignoring the crisis and denying help to Trump supporters. Biden told reporters Monday that Trump was "lying" and termed his attacks "irresponsible." The political storm over Helene comes as Biden and Harris endure a series of crises with barely a month until the knife-edge election. As they coordinate the hurricane response, Biden and Harris are also contending with escalating tensions between Iran and Israel and a dockworkers' strike that threatens the country's economy. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Biden and Harris lead relief efforts as hurricane Helene death toll rises to 162

In 2016, Donald Trump defied polls and all expectations to defeat Hillary Clinton and become the American President. The victory which he described as "beautiful" happened despite Clinton winning nearly three million more votes than the Republicans. But how could that be? How can the candidate who won the second-highest number of votes win and be crowned president? Here's how the complex US electoral system works:

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:101,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1791}">How did Trump win in 2016?</h2>

Donald Trump did what was required: win enough individual states, some with very narrow margins, to surpass the 270 Electoral College votes needed to win the White House.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:198,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1888}">How does the Electoral College work?</h2>

The US Electoral College is made up of 538 members who gather in their state capitals after each presidential election to designate the winning president and vice president. To win, a candidate must receive an absolute majority—at least 270 electoral votes.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melania-trump-breaks-ranks-contradicts-husband-donalds-views-on-abortion-in-memoir-764061">'It's about autonomy,' Melania Trump breaks ranks, contradicts husband Donald's views on abortion in memoir</a>

If you're wondering who these 538 voters are, the answer is they are mostly local elected officials or party leaders.

Each state has a number of electors equal to its total representation in Congress, combining its House — the number depends on the states' population and Senate members — two in every state irrespective of the state's size. For example, California has 54 electors, while smaller states like Wyoming have just three. US capital Washington has three electors even though it has no voting members in Congress.

This is why candidates focus heavily on a handful of "swing" states that can make or break the elections for them.

Most states follow a winner-takes-all approach, where the candidate with the most votes in that state gets all its electoral votes. However, Nebraska and Maine allocate some electors by the congressional district, adding complexity to the process.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:557,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2247}">A controversial system</h2>

As the 2024 US elections approach, the question if Trump can achieve his 2016 feat is on many minds. Back then, he won 306 electoral votes, way more than the 270 he needs.

He's not the only one to achieved this. Before him, five presidents, including John Quincy Adams in 1824 and George W. Bush in 2000, have achieved this. Bush's win was particularly contentious. It hinged on a Supreme Court ruling that ultimately awarded him Florida's electoral votes and the presidency, even though he lost the nationwide popular vote by almost 500,000 votes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:733,&quot;w&quot;:637,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2423}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-led-desperate-criminal-scheme-to-stay-in-power-prosecutors-reveal-new-evidence-revealed-764015">Trump led ‘desperate criminal scheme’ to stay in power, prosecutors reveal new evidence</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:769,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2459}">The role of electors</h2>

The Electoral College is often viewed as a formality, as electors are not required by the Constitution to vote according to their state's popular vote. However, in July 2020, the Supreme Court allowed states to impose fines on "faithless electors" who stray from this norm. However, to date, no faithless elector has ever been changed for the outcome of an election.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:882,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2572}">The 2024 US election schedule</h2>

US law states they "meet and cast their vote on the first Tuesday after the second Wednesday in December." This year, electors will gather in state capitals on December 17 and cast their votes.

After that, on January 6, 2025, Congress will convene to certify the winner on Capitol Hill — the scene of the 2020 riots. Certifying the victory by convention is the Vice President. Finally, the&nbsp;winner will be sworn in on January 20.

(With inputs from agencies)

In 2016, Donald Trump defied polls and all expectations to defeat Hillary Clinton and become the American President. The victory which he described as "beautiful" happened despite Clinton winning nearly three million more votes than the Republicans.

In 2016, Donald Trump defied polls and all expectations to defeat Hillary Clinton and become the American President. The victory which he described as "beautiful" happened despite Clinton winning nearly three million more votes than the Republicans. But how could that be? How can the candidate who won the second-highest number of votes win and be crowned president? Here's how the complex US electoral system works: How did Trump win in 2016? Donald Trump did what was required: win enough individual states, some with very narrow margins, to surpass the 270 Electoral College votes needed to win the White House. How does the Electoral College work? The US Electoral College is made up of 538 members who gather in their state capitals after each presidential election to designate the winning president and vice president. To win, a candidate must receive an absolute majority—at least 270 electoral votes. Also read | 'It's about autonomy,' Melania Trump breaks ranks, contradicts husband Donald's views on abortion in memoir If you're wondering who these 538 voters are, the answer is they are mostly local elected officials or party leaders. Each state has a number of electors equal to its total representation in Congress, combining its House — the number depends on the states' population and Senate members — two in every state irrespective of the state's size. For example, California has 54 electors, while smaller states like Wyoming have just three. US capital Washington has three electors even though it has no voting members in Congress. This is why candidates focus heavily on a handful of "swing" states that can make or break the elections for them. Most states follow a winner-takes-all approach, where the candidate with the most votes in that state gets all its electoral votes. However, Nebraska and Maine allocate some electors by the congressional district, adding complexity to the process. A controversial system As the 2024 US elections approach, the question if Trump can achieve his 2016 feat is on many minds. Back then, he won 306 electoral votes, way more than the 270 he needs. He's not the only one to achieved this. Before him, five presidents, including John Quincy Adams in 1824 and George W. Bush in 2000, have achieved this. Bush's win was particularly contentious. It hinged on a Supreme Court ruling that ultimately awarded him Florida's electoral votes and the presidency, even though he lost the nationwide popular vote by almost 500,000 votes. Also read | Trump led ‘desperate criminal scheme’ to stay in power, prosecutors reveal new evidence The role of electors The Electoral College is often viewed as a formality, as electors are not required by the Constitution to vote according to their state's popular vote. However, in July 2020, the Supreme Court allowed states to impose fines on "faithless electors" who stray from this norm. However, to date, no faithless elector has ever been changed for the outcome of an election. The 2024 US election schedule US law states they "meet and cast their vote on the first Tuesday after the second Wednesday in December." This year, electors will gather in state capitals on December 17 and cast their votes. After that, on January 6, 2025, Congress will convene to certify the winner on Capitol Hill — the scene of the 2020 riots. Certifying the victory by convention is the Vice President. Finally, the winner will be sworn in on January 20. (With inputs from agencies)

How Trump won the White House in 2016 despite losing the popular vote: Here's how US electoral college works

Jimmy Carter became the first US president to turn 100, but presidential candidate Donald Trump has chosen to take a dig at him instead of wishing him happy birthday. Speaking at a campaign event, the former US president said Carter is now considered a brilliant president when compared to current incumbent Joe Biden.

At the rally in Waunakee, Wisconsin, Trump said President Biden has replaced Carter as the worst president in American history.

"Jimmy Carter is the happiest man because Jimmy Carter is considered a brilliant president by comparison [with Biden]," Trump said about the 39th president, who is a Democrat.

This is not the first time that Trump attacked the former president. In May, at a campaign event&nbsp; in New Jersey, he misnamed him after former tennis star Jimmy Connors, while joking "he's also happy." 
 
Watch US: Iranians Charged For Hacking Trump Campaign

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iranians-charged-for-hacking-trump-campaign-762774/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<h2>How Jimmy Carter spent his birthday</h2>

Jimmy Carter, who is ailing and wheelchair-bound, spent his 100th birthday at his home in Georgia.

In exclusive footage, the US network CBS showed him on the lawns with family, friends and wellwishers.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Former President Jimmy Carter celebrated his 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends in his backyard in Plains, Georgia. CBS News was there as he was wheeled outside, beneath the shade of his trees, to witness a military flyover with four fighter jets. <a href="https://t.co/FKKd6XrHL6">pic.twitter.com/FKKd6XrHL6</a>
— CBS News (@CBSNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSNews/status/1841209959008063941?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The former Georgia governor has been in hospice care since February 2023.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oldest-living-former-us-president-jimmy-carter-to-receive-hospice-care-at-age-98-563550">Oldest-living former US President Jimmy Carter, 98, to receive hospice care at home</a> 
 
A birthday concert was held in his honour at Fox Theater in Atlanta in September, which raised $1.2 million thus far for the Carter Center.

The Carter Center shared videos on X, showing Biden and other living former presidents Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton wishing the former president happy birthday. There was no such thing from Trump.&nbsp;

It said in the post: We’re so grateful to Presidents Biden, Obama, Bush, and Clinton for contributing messages for President Carter’s 100th birthday concert. The audience was thrilled! Today, on President Carter’s actual birthday, we’re delighted to share excerpts from those with the world."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We’re so grateful to Presidents Biden, Obama, Bush, and Clinton for contributing messages for President Carter’s 100th birthday concert. The audience was thrilled! Today, on President Carter’s actual birthday, we’re delighted to share excerpts from those with the world. <a href="https://t.co/DhA7O18FbA">pic.twitter.com/DhA7O18FbA</a>
— The Carter Center (@CarterCenter) <a href="https://twitter.com/CarterCenter/status/1841138561115996663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Jimmy Carter: Longest-living US president</h2>

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

Jimmy Carter, the longest-living president in US history has now become the only one to cross the age of 100.

Born James Earl Carter Jr, he was one of the most respected American presidents, for his work in peace and development.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-dignitaries-family-members-gather-to-remember-former-first-lady-rosalynn-carter-664447">Also read: In Pics | Dignitaries, family members gather to remember former first lady Rosalynn Carter</a>

After serving as a senator of Georgia from 1963 to 1967, the Democrat became the 76th governor of the state from 1971 to 1975. &nbsp;

He served only one term as president from 1977 to 1981, having been defeated by Republican&nbsp;Ronald Reagan in the 1980 presidential election. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Jimmy Carter became the first US president to turn 100, but presidential candidate Donald Trump has chosen to take a dig at him instead of wishing him happy birthday.

Jimmy Carter became the first US president to turn 100, but presidential candidate Donald Trump has chosen to take a dig at him instead of wishing him happy birthday. Speaking at a campaign event, the former US president said Carter is now considered a brilliant president when compared to current incumbent Joe Biden. At the rally in Waunakee, Wisconsin, Trump said President Biden has replaced Carter as the worst president in American history. "Jimmy Carter is the happiest man because Jimmy Carter is considered a brilliant president by comparison [with Biden]," Trump said about the 39th president, who is a Democrat. This is not the first time that Trump attacked the former president. In May, at a campaign event in New Jersey, he misnamed him after former tennis star Jimmy Connors, while joking "he's also happy." Watch US: Iranians Charged For Hacking Trump Campaign × How Jimmy Carter spent his birthday Jimmy Carter, who is ailing and wheelchair-bound, spent his 100th birthday at his home in Georgia. In exclusive footage, the US network CBS showed him on the lawns with family, friends and wellwishers. Former President Jimmy Carter celebrated his 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends in his backyard in Plains, Georgia. CBS News was there as he was wheeled outside, beneath the shade of his trees, to witness a military flyover with four fighter jets. pic.twitter.com/FKKd6XrHL6 — CBS News (@CBSNews) October 1, 2024 × The former Georgia governor has been in hospice care since February 2023. Also read: Oldest-living former US President Jimmy Carter, 98, to receive hospice care at home A birthday concert was held in his honour at Fox Theater in Atlanta in September, which raised $1.2 million thus far for the Carter Center. The Carter Center shared videos on X, showing Biden and other living former presidents Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton wishing the former president happy birthday. There was no such thing from Trump. It said in the post: We’re so grateful to Presidents Biden, Obama, Bush, and Clinton for contributing messages for President Carter’s 100th birthday concert. The audience was thrilled! Today, on President Carter’s actual birthday, we’re delighted to share excerpts from those with the world." We’re so grateful to Presidents Biden, Obama, Bush, and Clinton for contributing messages for President Carter’s 100th birthday concert. The audience was thrilled! Today, on President Carter’s actual birthday, we’re delighted to share excerpts from those with the world. pic.twitter.com/DhA7O18FbA — The Carter Center (@CarterCenter) October 1, 2024 × Jimmy Carter: Longest-living US president Jimmy Carter, the longest-living president in US history has now become the only one to cross the age of 100. Born James Earl Carter Jr, he was one of the most respected American presidents, for his work in peace and development. Also read: In Pics | Dignitaries, family members gather to remember former first lady Rosalynn Carter After serving as a senator of Georgia from 1963 to 1967, the Democrat became the 76th governor of the state from 1971 to 1975. He served only one term as president from 1977 to 1981, having been defeated by Republican Ronald Reagan in the 1980 presidential election. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump makes birthday dig at Jimmy Carter, the longest-living former president who turned 100

The death toll from a devastating storm that battered the southeastern United States climbed to at least 130 on Monday, as the disaster became a hot topic in an already bitter election campaign, with the White House angrily refuting claims it had been slow to respond.

With hundreds still unaccounted for across several southeastern US states and the death toll climbing, President Joe Biden announced he would travel to storm-ravaged North Carolina Wednesday to monitor rescue efforts.

Biden also accused former president Donald Trump of spreading lies, after the Republican presidential candidate charged, without evidence, that the federal government was ignoring the disaster brought on by Hurricane Helene and denying help to his supporters.&nbsp;

"He's lying," Biden told reporters in the Oval Office, adding that he had spoken to North Carolina governor Ray Cooper "and he told him he's lying. I don't know why he does it... that's simply not true, and it's irresponsible."

Later on CNN, Cooper, a Democrat, said when asked about Trump's accusations of Republican victims being ignored: "It makes no difference who you are. If you need help, we are going to provide it.&nbsp;

"And if there is ever a time where we all need to come together and put politics aside, it is now."

At least 130 people were killed by the storm and associated flooding -- 57 in North Carolina, 29 in South Carolina, 25 in Georgia, 14 in Florida, four in Tennessee and one in Virginia, according to tallies from local authorities and media reports compiled by AFP.

Emergency workers continued a grim search for hundreds of people still unaccounted for across the affected states, where torrential rains brought widespread havoc.

They also worked to restore water and power supply to the affected areas as well as cell phone service, remove fallen trees, deliver supplies and register people for disaster assistance.

- Biden accused of 'sleeping' -

With Biden preparing to head to North Carolina, Trump on Monday visited Georgia, another epicenter of the destruction -- and both are among the key swing states where the US election will be decided in just five weeks' time.

In the city of Valdosta, Trump vowed to "bring lots of relief material, including fuel, equipment, water, and other things" to those in need.

"The federal government is not being responsive," he told reporters. "The vice president, she's out someplace, campaigning, looking for money," he said, referring to his election rival, Vice President Kamala Harris.

"We're not talking about politics now," he said later, wearing a bright red "Make America Great Again" hat while standing in the rubble of a furniture store.

Harris canceled campaign events to return to Washington Monday for a briefing on the federal response.

"Over the past few days, our nation has endured some of the worst destruction and devastation that we have seen in quite some time," Harris said afterwards.

"And we have responded with our best, with the best folks who are on the ground and here doing the kind of work that is about rising to a moment of crisis."

Responding to Trump's criticism that he was "sleeping" instead of dealing with the storm damage, Biden defended his decision to spend the weekend at his home in Delaware, saying he was working "the whole time."

When a major natural disaster hits the United States, the federal government responds at the request of states. A president's role is usually to oversee and coordinate aid, including funding.

Scientists say climate change likely plays a role in the rapid intensification of hurricanes, because there is more energy in warmer oceans for them to feed on, and Biden stressed as much Monday.

"Absolutely, positively, unequivocally, yes, yes, yes, yes," Biden told reporters in the Oval Office when asked if climate change was to blame for the trail of destruction left by the storm.

- Drowned in their homes -

The sheriff's office in Pinellas County, Florida published a grim litany of the nine people left dead there so far, almost all of whom were found in their homes.

Nearly all appeared to have drowned, it said, while the others were buried under debris.

In Georgia, residents faced power cuts, supply shortages, blocked roads and broken communication lines in often mountainous terrain, with Governor Brian Kemp describing the storm as a "250-mile wide tornado."

More than 1.6 million households and businesses remained without power on Monday, according to tracker poweroutage.us.

Cooper, the North Carolina governor, said Monday that hundreds of roads had been destroyed and many communities were "wiped off the map."

"This is an unprecedented storm," he told reporters. &nbsp;"The emotional and physical toll here is indescribable."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

The death toll from a devastating storm that battered the southeastern United States climbed to at least 130 on Monday, as the disaster became a hot topic in an already bitter election campaign, with the White House angrily refuting claims it had been slow to respond.

The death toll from a devastating storm that battered the southeastern United States climbed to at least 130 on Monday, as the disaster became a hot topic in an already bitter election campaign, with the White House angrily refuting claims it had been slow to respond. With hundreds still unaccounted for across several southeastern US states and the death toll climbing, President Joe Biden announced he would travel to storm-ravaged North Carolina Wednesday to monitor rescue efforts. Biden also accused former president Donald Trump of spreading lies, after the Republican presidential candidate charged, without evidence, that the federal government was ignoring the disaster brought on by Hurricane Helene and denying help to his supporters. "He's lying," Biden told reporters in the Oval Office, adding that he had spoken to North Carolina governor Ray Cooper "and he told him he's lying. I don't know why he does it... that's simply not true, and it's irresponsible." Later on CNN, Cooper, a Democrat, said when asked about Trump's accusations of Republican victims being ignored: "It makes no difference who you are. If you need help, we are going to provide it. "And if there is ever a time where we all need to come together and put politics aside, it is now." At least 130 people were killed by the storm and associated flooding -- 57 in North Carolina, 29 in South Carolina, 25 in Georgia, 14 in Florida, four in Tennessee and one in Virginia, according to tallies from local authorities and media reports compiled by AFP. Emergency workers continued a grim search for hundreds of people still unaccounted for across the affected states, where torrential rains brought widespread havoc. They also worked to restore water and power supply to the affected areas as well as cell phone service, remove fallen trees, deliver supplies and register people for disaster assistance. - Biden accused of 'sleeping' - With Biden preparing to head to North Carolina, Trump on Monday visited Georgia, another epicenter of the destruction -- and both are among the key swing states where the US election will be decided in just five weeks' time. In the city of Valdosta, Trump vowed to "bring lots of relief material, including fuel, equipment, water, and other things" to those in need. "The federal government is not being responsive," he told reporters. "The vice president, she's out someplace, campaigning, looking for money," he said, referring to his election rival, Vice President Kamala Harris. "We're not talking about politics now," he said later, wearing a bright red "Make America Great Again" hat while standing in the rubble of a furniture store. Harris canceled campaign events to return to Washington Monday for a briefing on the federal response. "Over the past few days, our nation has endured some of the worst destruction and devastation that we have seen in quite some time," Harris said afterwards. "And we have responded with our best, with the best folks who are on the ground and here doing the kind of work that is about rising to a moment of crisis." Responding to Trump's criticism that he was "sleeping" instead of dealing with the storm damage, Biden defended his decision to spend the weekend at his home in Delaware, saying he was working "the whole time." When a major natural disaster hits the United States, the federal government responds at the request of states. A president's role is usually to oversee and coordinate aid, including funding. Scientists say climate change likely plays a role in the rapid intensification of hurricanes, because there is more energy in warmer oceans for them to feed on, and Biden stressed as much Monday. "Absolutely, positively, unequivocally, yes, yes, yes, yes," Biden told reporters in the Oval Office when asked if climate change was to blame for the trail of destruction left by the storm. - Drowned in their homes - The sheriff's office in Pinellas County, Florida published a grim litany of the nine people left dead there so far, almost all of whom were found in their homes. Nearly all appeared to have drowned, it said, while the others were buried under debris. In Georgia, residents faced power cuts, supply shortages, blocked roads and broken communication lines in often mountainous terrain, with Governor Brian Kemp describing the storm as a "250-mile wide tornado." More than 1.6 million households and businesses remained without power on Monday, according to tracker poweroutage.us. Cooper, the North Carolina governor, said Monday that hundreds of roads had been destroyed and many communities were "wiped off the map." "This is an unprecedented storm," he told reporters. "The emotional and physical toll here is indescribable." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

130 dead from Hurricane Helene, Biden announced his visit to storm-hit North Carolina amid Trump controversy

A senior Israeli official accused the United States&nbsp;of endangering Israeli soldiers by leaking its plans for the Israeli ground operation in Lebanon, The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;

On Monday (Sep 30), the official called the leaks by the US "dangerous", saying that it has put the Israeli troops in danger, according to Kan news.&nbsp;

“This was done even though the US supports the operation," the official said, adding, "but it is clear to us that the US is worried — and therefore they outed the operation to try to limit it.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-begins-localised-and-targeted-ground-operation-in-lebanon-days-after-hezbollah-chiefs-death-763329">Also read:&nbsp;Israel begins 'localised and targeted' ground operation in Lebanon, days after Hezbollah chief's death</a>

The official further said that "there will be no (diplomatic) arrangement in Lebanon before the end of the operation.”

This comes amid the reports that the ministers in Israel's political-security cabinet were left frustrated that the news of their planned invasion was leaked. Following the reports, an unnamed US security official confirmed yesterday to different news outlets of an impending 'limited' invasion into Lebanon.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Israel Begins Ground Invasion In South Lebanon

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-conflict-israel-begins-ground-invasion-in-south-lebanon-763487/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday said that Israel "had told us that those are limited operations focused on Hezbollah infrastructure near the border".&nbsp;

On Monday, US President Joe Biden also told reporters that he was "more aware than you might know", before adding: "We should have a cease-fire now".&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A senior Israeli official accused the United States of endangering Israeli soldiers by leaking its plans for the Israeli ground operation in Lebanon, The Times of Israel reported.

A senior Israeli official accused the United States of endangering Israeli soldiers by leaking its plans for the Israeli ground operation in Lebanon, The Times of Israel reported. On Monday (Sep 30), the official called the leaks by the US "dangerous", saying that it has put the Israeli troops in danger, according to Kan news. “This was done even though the US supports the operation," the official said, adding, "but it is clear to us that the US is worried — and therefore they outed the operation to try to limit it.” Also read: Israel begins 'localised and targeted' ground operation in Lebanon, days after Hezbollah chief's death The official further said that "there will be no (diplomatic) arrangement in Lebanon before the end of the operation.” This comes amid the reports that the ministers in Israel's political-security cabinet were left frustrated that the news of their planned invasion was leaked. Following the reports, an unnamed US security official confirmed yesterday to different news outlets of an impending 'limited' invasion into Lebanon. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Israel Begins Ground Invasion In South Lebanon × Meanwhile, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday said that Israel "had told us that those are limited operations focused on Hezbollah infrastructure near the border". On Monday, US President Joe Biden also told reporters that he was "more aware than you might know", before adding: "We should have a cease-fire now". Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli official accuses US of endangering IDF soldiers by leaking Lebanon ground operation plans

The outgoing United States President lifted the lid on his absence during the Paris Olympics as he hosted the successful athletes during an event held at the White House on Monday (Sep 30). United States&nbsp;won 40 gold medals, same as China but got the top spot for winning more silver medals at the quadrennial event.

Biden said that he wanted to attend this year’s Paris Olympics, but “they” told him that he could not go as this would create “commotion”.

“Because I’m president and I cause commotion when I go places, they wouldn’t let me go the Olympics. But I watched it all. Jill, my wife, went to the Olympics,” the US president said.

<h2>Biden lifts lid on Paris Olympics absence</h2>

“My staff would have their TVs on watching you as I was trying to get briefed on national security,” Biden said. “In fairness, I had the TV on in the Oval Office as well.”

Biden, who in July had announced his withdrawal from the upcoming US elections and instead nominated Kamala Harris hosted 400 Olympians. He sported a USA baseball cap during the event and celebrated their success. At the end of the ceremony, athletes presented President Biden with a jacket on behalf of Team USA.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/indian-side-mohun-bagan-sg-decides-against-travelling-to-iran-for-champions-league-2-clash-for-safety-reasons-763363">Indian side Mohun Bagan SG decides against travelling to Iran for Champions League 2 clash for safety reasons</a>

As mentioned above, it was a tight contest for the top spot in the Paris Olympic standings as both China and the United States ended with 40 gold medals. This meant silver medals decided the top spot, as the US won 44 compared to China’s 27. Interestingly, the United States was the only nation in the Paris Olympics that completed a century of medals having accounted for 126 in total which consisted of 42 bronze medals as well.

During the Paris Paralympics, the United States bagged 105 medals and stood third. This included 36 gold, 42 silver and 27 bronze medals. Only Great Britain and China were the most successful nations after the United States. This also meant that the United States completed a unique feat of winning more than 100 medals at both the Olympics and Paralympics in Paris.

The outgoing United States President lifted the lid on his absence during the Paris Olympics as he hosted the successful athletes during an event held at the White House on Monday (Sep 30).

The outgoing United States President lifted the lid on his absence during the Paris Olympics as he hosted the successful athletes during an event held at the White House on Monday (Sep 30). United States won 40 gold medals, same as China but got the top spot for winning more silver medals at the quadrennial event. Biden said that he wanted to attend this year’s Paris Olympics, but “they” told him that he could not go as this would create “commotion”. “Because I’m president and I cause commotion when I go places, they wouldn’t let me go the Olympics. But I watched it all. Jill, my wife, went to the Olympics,” the US president said. Biden lifts lid on Paris Olympics absence “My staff would have their TVs on watching you as I was trying to get briefed on national security,” Biden said. “In fairness, I had the TV on in the Oval Office as well.” Biden, who in July had announced his withdrawal from the upcoming US elections and instead nominated Kamala Harris hosted 400 Olympians. He sported a USA baseball cap during the event and celebrated their success. At the end of the ceremony, athletes presented President Biden with a jacket on behalf of Team USA. ALSO READ | Indian side Mohun Bagan SG decides against travelling to Iran for Champions League 2 clash for safety reasons As mentioned above, it was a tight contest for the top spot in the Paris Olympic standings as both China and the United States ended with 40 gold medals. This meant silver medals decided the top spot, as the US won 44 compared to China’s 27. Interestingly, the United States was the only nation in the Paris Olympics that completed a century of medals having accounted for 126 in total which consisted of 42 bronze medals as well. During the Paris Paralympics, the United States bagged 105 medals and stood third. This included 36 gold, 42 silver and 27 bronze medals. Only Great Britain and China were the most successful nations after the United States. This also meant that the United States completed a unique feat of winning more than 100 medals at both the Olympics and Paralympics in Paris.

US President Joe Biden cites 'commotion' for not attending Paris Olympics

President Joe Biden announced Monday that he plans to visit North Carolina on Wednesday to assess the damage from Hurricane Helene, describing it as “the worst ever.” He will receive a briefing from the Emergency Operations Center in Raleigh before taking an aerial tour of Asheville.

Hurricane Helene 2024: President Joe Biden To Visit North Carolina

North Korea, accused of illegally supplying weapons to Russia, criticized the United States on Sunday for providing military aid worth USD 8 billion to Ukraine, calling it "an incredible mistake" and warning that it was akin to "playing with fire" against nuclear superpower Russia. The criticism follows US President Joe Biden's announcement of the new aid package during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to Washington. The package includes longer-range weapons, which are expected to enhance Ukraine's ability to strike Russian targets from safer distances as Kyiv continues its efforts to defend itself.

Russia-Ukraine War: North Korea Slams US For Providing Military Aid To Ukraine | World DNA

Taiwan on alert after detecting "multiple waves" of missile firing deep in inland China. The development comes after Beijing said it had carried out a successful test launch of a ballistic missile. Taiwan said on Saturday that ‘firings’ were detected in Mongolia, Gansu, Qinghai, and Xinjiang. Ministry says Taiwan's air defense forces have strengthened their alert after developments. Watch to know more!

Taiwan On Alert After Detecting 'Multiple Waves' Of Missile Firing In China | WION Originals

US President Joe Biden has said he would speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the Middle East sits on the cusp of an all-out war. In other news, the White House on Sunday (Sep 29) approved&nbsp;$567 million in defence support for Taiwan. This is the latest move by Washington to boost the island's military in the face of rising tensions with China.

<h2>Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;</h2>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-working-like-hell-biden-on-avoiding-all-out-war-in-middle-east-after-israeli-strikes-763056">'We're working like hell': Biden on avoiding all-out war in Middle East after Israeli strikes</a>

After Israel took out Hezbollah's entire chain of command, including chief Hassan Nasrallah, the region has been extremely volatile, with US President Joe Biden stating his administration was 'working like hell" to avoid the worst-case scenario.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/21/439145-wion-images-2024-06-21t152858915.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-567-million-in-defence-support-for-taiwan-as-taipei-is-on-alert-after-china-missile-firing-763059">US approves $567 million in defence support for Taiwan as Taipei is on alert after China missile firing</a>

The Joe Biden-led United States (US) administration on Sunday (Sep&nbsp;29) &nbsp;approved $567 million in defence support for Taiwan. This is the latest move by Washington to boost the island's military in the face of rising tensions with China.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/30/457504-untitled-2.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leading-scientist-in-us-says-he-faced-death-threats-due-to-work-with-china-on-virus-research-report-763053">Leading scientist in US says he faced death threats due to work with China on virus research: Report</a>

A British scientist working in the United States (US) said that he faced death threats and harassment due to his work with Chinese scientists on virus research before the Covid pandemic broke out in 2020.&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/30/457499-untitled-1.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-four-killed-in-beirut-as-israel-carries-out-first-strike-on-heart-of-lebanons-capital-763028">West Asia crisis: Four killed in Beirut as Israel carries out first strike on heart of Lebanon's capital</a>

Four people were killed in an Israeli strike on a Beirut apartment block on Monday (Sep&nbsp;30) as Israel carried out the first such raid on the heart of Lebanon's capital since the outbreak of the war in Gaza last year, the news agency AFP reported citing a Lebanese source.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/30/457487-untitled.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-conflict-israel-hits-central-beirut-four-killed-763058">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Israel Hits Central Beirut, Four Killed</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-conflict-israel-hits-central-beirut-four-killed-763058/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden has said he would speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the Middle East sits on the cusp of an all-out war. In other news, the White House on Sunday (Sep 29) approved $567 million in defence support for Taiwan.

US President Joe Biden has said he would speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the Middle East sits on the cusp of an all-out war. In other news, the White House on Sunday (Sep 29) approved $567 million in defence support for Taiwan. This is the latest move by Washington to boost the island's military in the face of rising tensions with China. Click on headlines to read more: 'We're working like hell': Biden on avoiding all-out war in Middle East after Israeli strikes After Israel took out Hezbollah's entire chain of command, including chief Hassan Nasrallah, the region has been extremely volatile, with US President Joe Biden stating his administration was 'working like hell" to avoid the worst-case scenario. US approves $567 million in defence support for Taiwan as Taipei is on alert after China missile firing The Joe Biden-led United States (US) administration on Sunday (Sep 29) approved $567 million in defence support for Taiwan. This is the latest move by Washington to boost the island's military in the face of rising tensions with China. Leading scientist in US says he faced death threats due to work with China on virus research: Report A British scientist working in the United States (US) said that he faced death threats and harassment due to his work with Chinese scientists on virus research before the Covid pandemic broke out in 2020. West Asia crisis: Four killed in Beirut as Israel carries out first strike on heart of Lebanon's capital Four people were killed in an Israeli strike on a Beirut apartment block on Monday (Sep 30) as Israel carried out the first such raid on the heart of Lebanon's capital since the outbreak of the war in Gaza last year, the news agency AFP reported citing a Lebanese source. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Israel Hits Central Beirut, Four Killed ×

Morning news brief: Biden to talk to Israeli PM; US approves defence support for Taiwan, and more

The Joe Biden-led United States (US) administration on Sunday (Sep 29) approved $567 million in defence support for Taiwan. This is the latest move by Washington to boost the island's military in the face of rising tensions with China.

The Joe Biden-led United States (US) administration on Sunday (Sep 29) approved $567 million in defence support for Taiwan. This is the latest move by Washington to boost the island's military in the face of rising tensions with China. The US is Taiwan's most important international backer and arms supplier even in the absence of formal diplomatic ties. China has repeatedly demanded Washington stop selling weapons to Taipei. In a statement, the White House said that President Joe Biden delegated the Secretary of State the authority "to direct the drawdown of up to $567 million in defence articles and services of the Department of Defense, and military education and training, to provide assistance to Taiwan." Taiwan on alert after China missile firing This assistance by the US to Taiwan came as Taipei was on alert after detecting "multiple waves" of missiles firing deep in inland China. Also read | Taiwan on heightened alert after 'multiple waves' of missile firing in inland China The Taiwanese defence ministry said that starting from 6.50 am (local time) on Saturday, it detected "multiple waves of firing" by China's Rocket Force and army in the provinces and regions of Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Qinghai and Xinjiang, which all lie at least 2,000 kilometres from Taiwan. Taiwan's forces are "continuously monitoring relevant developments, and air defence forces have maintained a high level of vigilance and strengthened their alert", the ministry said in a statement. Days earlier, China said that it carried out a successful test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile. China, which views democratically governed Taiwan as its territory, has ramped up military and political pressure over the past five years to assert its claims, which Taipei strongly rejects. Taiwan highlights renewed surge of Chinese military activity around island Last week, Taiwan raised the alarm about a renewed surge of Chinese military activity around the island and live fire drills, accusing Beijing of policy instability that presented a serious challenge to its neighbours, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Also watch | WION Dispatch: Taiwan sounds alarm over renewed military threats from China × The defence ministry said that on Thursday, it had detected a second day of large-scale Chinese military activities nearby. Beijing responded to Taipei's concerns by saying that its military drills in airspace and maritime areas around Taiwan were legitimate and that it would continue to strengthen combat readiness and organise such exercises. (With inputs from agencies)

US approves $567 million in defence support for Taiwan as Taipei is on alert after China's missile firing

US President Joe Biden has said he would speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the Middle East sits on the cusp of an all-out war. After Israel took out Hezbollah's entire chain of command, including chief Hassan Nasrallah, the region has been extremely volatile, with Biden stating his administration was 'working like hell" to avoid the worst-case scenario.&nbsp;

Speaking to the reporters as he was boarding his Air Force One for Washington, Biden reflected on the situation and said he will inform about his talk with Netanyahu.&nbsp;

"Yes, I will be talking to him. And I'll tell you what I say to him when I talk to him," the US president said.&nbsp;

Biden added that an "all-out war" scenario must be avoided at all costs.

“It has to be.&nbsp;We really have to avoid it.&nbsp;We have already taken precautions relative to our embassies and personnel who want to leave. But, we're not there yet, but we're working like hell with the French and many others to avoid [more] war," he added.&nbsp;

Even after Nasrallah's death, Israel has not eased on the strikes in Lebanon. Tens of thousands of Lebanese citizens have been forced to seek shelter in safer pastures.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Netanyahu said Israel had&nbsp;"settled the account" with a "mass murderer".

"We settled the score with the one responsible for the murder of countless Israelis and many citizens of other countries, including hundreds of Americans and dozens of French," said Netanyahu.&nbsp;

Bibi&nbsp;revealed that he had personally&nbsp;issued the directive to neutralise Nasrallah as Hezbollah would have regenerated if he was allowed to live.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-war-netanyahu-no-choice-but-to-target-nasrallah-762881" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah War | Netanyahu: No Choice But To Target Nasrallah</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-war-netanyahu-no-choice-but-to-target-nasrallah-762881/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Nasrallah's death&nbsp;</h2>

On Saturday (Sep 28), the Israeli military said that Nasrallah was eliminated during Friday's strikes, which targeted the suburbs of Beirut.

"Hassan Nasrallah will no longer be able to terrorise the world," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-leader-hassan-nasrallah-apparent-target-of-israeli-strikes-in-lebanons-beirut-who-is-he-762708" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Hassan Nasrallah: What you should know about the Hezbollah leader Israel says it has killed</a>

Hezbollah also confirmed the death of its leader later in the day with Iran, known for backing the militant outfit, issuing a statement and vowing to avenge the loss.&nbsp;

Notably, more than 80 bombs were dropped by Israel within a few minutes to kill Nasrallah and his aides. After Nasrallah's death, reports claim that his cousin Hashem Safieddine may take the reins of the group.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden has said he would speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the Middle East sits on the cusp of an all-out war. After Israel took out Hezbollah's entire chain of command, including chief Hassan Nasrallah, the region has been extremely volatile, with Biden stating his administration was 'working like hell" to avoid the worst-case scenario.

US President Joe Biden has said he would speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the Middle East sits on the cusp of an all-out war. After Israel took out Hezbollah's entire chain of command, including chief Hassan Nasrallah, the region has been extremely volatile, with Biden stating his administration was 'working like hell" to avoid the worst-case scenario. Speaking to the reporters as he was boarding his Air Force One for Washington, Biden reflected on the situation and said he will inform about his talk with Netanyahu. "Yes, I will be talking to him. And I'll tell you what I say to him when I talk to him," the US president said. Biden added that an "all-out war" scenario must be avoided at all costs. “It has to be. We really have to avoid it. We have already taken precautions relative to our embassies and personnel who want to leave. But, we're not there yet, but we're working like hell with the French and many others to avoid [more] war," he added. Even after Nasrallah's death, Israel has not eased on the strikes in Lebanon. Tens of thousands of Lebanese citizens have been forced to seek shelter in safer pastures. Meanwhile, Netanyahu said Israel had "settled the account" with a "mass murderer". "We settled the score with the one responsible for the murder of countless Israelis and many citizens of other countries, including hundreds of Americans and dozens of French," said Netanyahu. Bibi revealed that he had personally issued the directive to neutralise Nasrallah as Hezbollah would have regenerated if he was allowed to live. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War | Netanyahu: No Choice But To Target Nasrallah Nasrallah's death On Saturday (Sep 28), the Israeli military said that Nasrallah was eliminated during Friday's strikes, which targeted the suburbs of Beirut. "Hassan Nasrallah will no longer be able to terrorise the world," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Also read | Hassan Nasrallah: What you should know about the Hezbollah leader Israel says it has killed Hezbollah also confirmed the death of its leader later in the day with Iran, known for backing the militant outfit, issuing a statement and vowing to avenge the loss. Notably, more than 80 bombs were dropped by Israel within a few minutes to kill Nasrallah and his aides. After Nasrallah's death, reports claim that his cousin Hashem Safieddine may take the reins of the group. (With inputs from agencies)

'We're working like hell': Biden on avoiding all-out war in Middle East after Israeli strikes

United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Sep 28) called the death of Hezbollah chief a "measure of justice", stressing that the Lebanon-based militant group is responsible for killing hundreds of Americans under Hassan Nasrallah’s four-decade reign of terror.&nbsp;

Hezbollah, on Saturday, confirmed that the militant group's chief was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut, a day earlier.

"Hassan Nasrallah and the terrorist group he led, Hezbollah, were responsible for killing hundreds of Americans over a four-decade reign of terror. His death from an Israeli airstrike is a measure of justice for his many victims, including thousands of Americans, Israelis, and Lebanese civilians," said Biden in a statement released&nbsp;by the White House.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-leader-hassan-nasrallah-apparent-target-of-israeli-strikes-in-lebanons-beirut-who-is-he-762708">Also read:&nbsp;Hassan Nasrallah: What you should know about the Hezbollah leader Israel says it has killed</a>

"The strike that killed Nasrallah took place in the broader context of the conflict that began with Hamas’s massacre on October 7, 2023. Nasrallah, the next day, made the fateful decision to join hands with Hamas and open what he called a 'northern front'&nbsp;against Israel," he&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

Biden reiterated Washington's support to Israel for its right to defend itself against Hezbollah, Palestinian militant group&nbsp;Hamas, the Yemen-based Houthis, and any other Iranian-supported terrorist groups.

"The United States fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself against Hezbollah, Hamas, the Houthis, and any other Iranian-supported terrorist groups," the statement read.

On Friday, the US president said he directed his secretary of defence to further enhance American&nbsp;military forces' defence posture in the Middle East&nbsp;to deter aggression and reduce the risk of a broader regional war.

Watch |&nbsp;IDF claims Hezbollah chief Nasrallah 'eliminated' in Beirut strike

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-idf-claims-hezbollah-chief-nasrallah-eliminated-in-beirut-strike-762780/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The US is aiming to&nbsp;de-escalate the ongoing conflicts in both Gaza and Lebanon "through diplomatic means," Biden said. He added, that in Gaza Washington has been&nbsp;pursuing a deal&nbsp;backed by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for a ceasefire and the release of hostages.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in Lebanon, the Biden administration has been "negotiating a deal that would return people safely to their homes in Israel and southern Lebanon. &nbsp;It is time for these deals to close, for the threats to Israel to be removed, and for the broader Middle East region to gain greater stability," the US president&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Sep 28) called the death of Hezbollah chief a "measure of justice", stressing that the Lebanon-based militant group is responsible for killing hundreds of Americans under Hassan Nasrallah’s four-decade reign of terror.

United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Sep 28) called the death of Hezbollah chief a "measure of justice", stressing that the Lebanon-based militant group is responsible for killing hundreds of Americans under Hassan Nasrallah’s four-decade reign of terror. Hezbollah, on Saturday, confirmed that the militant group's chief was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut, a day earlier. "Hassan Nasrallah and the terrorist group he led, Hezbollah, were responsible for killing hundreds of Americans over a four-decade reign of terror. His death from an Israeli airstrike is a measure of justice for his many victims, including thousands of Americans, Israelis, and Lebanese civilians," said Biden in a statement released by the White House. Also read: Hassan Nasrallah: What you should know about the Hezbollah leader Israel says it has killed "The strike that killed Nasrallah took place in the broader context of the conflict that began with Hamas’s massacre on October 7, 2023. Nasrallah, the next day, made the fateful decision to join hands with Hamas and open what he called a 'northern front' against Israel," he added. Biden reiterated Washington's support to Israel for its right to defend itself against Hezbollah, Palestinian militant group Hamas, the Yemen-based Houthis, and any other Iranian-supported terrorist groups. "The United States fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself against Hezbollah, Hamas, the Houthis, and any other Iranian-supported terrorist groups," the statement read. On Friday, the US president said he directed his secretary of defence to further enhance American military forces' defence posture in the Middle East to deter aggression and reduce the risk of a broader regional war. Watch | IDF claims Hezbollah chief Nasrallah 'eliminated' in Beirut strike × The US is aiming to de-escalate the ongoing conflicts in both Gaza and Lebanon "through diplomatic means," Biden said. He added, that in Gaza Washington has been pursuing a deal backed by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Meanwhile, in Lebanon, the Biden administration has been "negotiating a deal that would return people safely to their homes in Israel and southern Lebanon. It is time for these deals to close, for the threats to Israel to be removed, and for the broader Middle East region to gain greater stability," the US president said. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden calls Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's death 'measure of justice', reiterates US support to Israel

United States (US) President Joe Biden said on Sunday (Sep 1) that one of the six Israeli hostages found dead in the Gaza Strip tunnel was an Israeli-American. In a statement, President Biden said, "We have now confirmed that one of the hostages killed by these vicious Hamas terrorists was an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin.

United States (US) President Joe Biden said on Sunday (Sep 1) that one of the six Israeli hostages found dead in the Gaza Strip tunnel was an Israeli-American. In a statement, President Biden said, "We have now confirmed that one of the hostages killed by these vicious Hamas terrorists was an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin." "Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes. And we'll continue working towards a deal to secure the release of the remaining hostages," he added. The remaining five hostages were identified by the Israeli military as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi and Ori Danino. Who was Hersh Goldberg-Polin? Hersh, 23, was a dual Israeli-American citizen. He immigrated to Israel with his family in 2008 at the age of seven, according to a statement from his family. According to President Biden, Hersh was attending the Nova Music Festival in Israel on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack. Also read | Some of the six Israeli hostages found dead were approved for potential swap, says Hamas "He lost his arm helping friends and strangers during Hamas’ savage massacre," Biden said. "He had just turned 23. He planned to travel the world. I have gotten to know his parents, Jon and Rachel. They have been courageous, wise, and steadfast, even as they have endured the unimaginable," he added. "I have worked tirelessly to bring their beloved Hersh safely to them and am heartbroken by the news of his death. It is as tragic as it is reprehensible," the US president further said. Vice President Kamala Harris also condemned Hersh's death. "When I met with Jon and Rachel earlier this year, I told them: You are not alone. That remains true as they mourn this terrible loss," she said in a statement. 'Some of 6 hostages were approved for potential swap' The Israeli military claimed that the six hostages were murdered by Hamas. These hostages were among 250 who were captured during the Hamas-led shock incursion into southern Israel on October 7 last year that sparked the war in Gaza. Hamas, meanwhile, did not say anything about the circumstances in which these six hostages were found dead. However, the Palestinian militant group told the news agency AFP that some of these hostages had been "approved" for release in the event of a truce deal. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin found dead besides 5 others. Who was he?

During an address to world leaders in New York on Wednesday (September 25), US President Joe Biden seemed to be confused, mistakenly welcoming them to Washington instead of Midtown Manhattan, where the event was taking place.

During an address to world leaders in New York on Wednesday (September 25), US President Joe Biden seemed to be confused, mistakenly welcoming them to Washington instead of Midtown Manhattan, where the event was taking place. 'Welcome to Washington' "Thank you, thank you, thank you. Welcome to Washington," Biden, 81, said at the InterContinental New York Barclay Hotel, where the gathering was held. This latest slip-up adds to concerns about the president’s mental wellbeing, which had previously prompted him to withdraw from the 2024 presidential campaign. Also read: NY Mayor Eric Adams indicted by grand jury, says won't resign Without acknowledging the mistake, Biden moved on with his speech. He said, "Fellow leaders, friends, for 944 days [Russian President Vladimir} Putin has waged his vicious onslaught against Ukraine," as Western leaders gathered to show their continued support for Kyiv. The event coincided with the United Nations General Assembly, which took place earlier in the week in New York, where Biden also delivered an address. Biden fumbles before introducing Indian Prime Minister Modi Earlier, Biden had another awkward moment during a Quad meeting in Wilmington, Delaware, when he briefly struggled to introduce Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Cameras captured the president appearing confused about who was next to be introduced. "So, I want to thank you all for being here. And now, who am I introducing next?" he said, before pausing for a few seconds and asking again, "Who's next?" Also read: Second BAPS temple vandalised in US in a month with anti-Hindu messages After a brief silence, a staff member pointed to the podium, allowing Biden to introduce Modi. Once Modi joined him on stage, Biden seemed to regain his composure, cracked a joke, and embraced the Indian Prime Minister. Biden, who is the oldest president in US history, ended his bid for a second term on July 21, following a poor debate performance against Donald Trump, 78. He then endorsed Kamala Harris as his preferred candidate. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden fumbles in New York address, mistakenly welcoming leaders to 'Washington'

The Biden administration has put forward a proposal to ban Chinese-made vehicle technology in the United States, citing national security concerns. The move targets Chinese components and software used in electric and autonomous vehicles, aiming to protect critical infrastructure from potential cyber threats. If implemented, the ban could significantly impact U.S.-China trade relations and the global automotive industry, while encouraging domestic production and development of secure vehicle technologies.

Biden Administration Proposes Ban On Chinese Vehicle Technology In The U.S.

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Sep 24) addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)&nbsp;in New York for the last time. The 81-year-old leader started off by recounting conflicts of the world when he first entered&nbsp;public office around five decades ago. Speaking of how the US and Vietnam buried the hatchet during the Vietnam War, Biden said, “Things can get better. We should never forget that. I’ve seen that throughout my career.”

In his last speech before the United Nations General Assembly as the US president, Biden&nbsp;called on nations to band together amid conflict in the Middle East, the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, and rising concerns about China’s influence.

"I truly believe we’re at another inflection point in world history. The choices we make today will determine our future," Biden said.

<h2>Vows to support Ukraine</h2>

Biden in his final address to the UN vowed to support Ukraine, which has been at war with Russia for over two years now. The US president&nbsp;said “our NATO allies and partners and 50 plus nations stood up” against Russia.

“Most importantly, the Ukrainian people stood up. I asked the people in this chamber to stand up for them,” Biden added.

He declared that Russian President&nbsp;Vladimir Putin’s war had failed and that Ukraine was still free. “He set out to weaken NATO, but NATO is bigger, stronger, and more united than ever before, with two new members, Finland and Sweden,” said the Democratic leader.

<h2>Gaza&nbsp;war: It's&nbsp;high time to ease sufferings</h2>

Biden spoke about the October 7 Hamas on Israel, in which hundreds of innocent civilians were killed and hundreds were taken hostage. “I’ve met with the families of those hostages. I’ve grieved with them,” the US president&nbsp;said. “They’re going through hell.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiTpf6B7duIAxUHcPUHHdEZMhoQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-bids-farewell-to-world-leaders-as-he-makes-his-final-appearance-at-un-761499" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-bids-farewell-to-world-leaders-as-he-makes-his-final-appearance-at-un-761499&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiTpf6B7duIAxUHcPUHHdEZMhoQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Joe Biden bids farewell to world leaders as he makes his final appearance at UN</a>

He also talked about the ‘hell’ the Gazans were going through as a result of the devastating war.

“Innocent civilians in Gaza are also going through hell. Thousands and thousands killed, including aid workers. Too many families dislocated, crowding in the tents, facing a dire humanitarian situation.”

Biden said now it was high time that both parties come to the talking table and ease the sufferings in Gaza.

<h2>On dropping out of presidential race</h2>

Biden defended his decision to drop out of the presidential race by saying staying in power is not the most important thing.

“Being president has been the honour of my life,” the US president&nbsp;said. “There’s so much more I want to get done.”

“As much as I love the job, I love my country more. I decided, after 50 years of public service, it’s time for a new generation of leadership to take my nation forward,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Sep 24) addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York for the last time. The 81-year-old leader started off by recounting conflicts of the world when he first entered public office around five decades ago.

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Sep 24) addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York for the last time. The 81-year-old leader started off by recounting conflicts of the world when he first entered public office around five decades ago. Speaking of how the US and Vietnam buried the hatchet during the Vietnam War, Biden said, “Things can get better. We should never forget that. I’ve seen that throughout my career.” In his last speech before the United Nations General Assembly as the US president, Biden called on nations to band together amid conflict in the Middle East, the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, and rising concerns about China’s influence. "I truly believe we’re at another inflection point in world history. The choices we make today will determine our future," Biden said. Vows to support Ukraine Biden in his final address to the UN vowed to support Ukraine, which has been at war with Russia for over two years now. The US president said “our NATO allies and partners and 50 plus nations stood up” against Russia. “Most importantly, the Ukrainian people stood up. I asked the people in this chamber to stand up for them,” Biden added. He declared that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war had failed and that Ukraine was still free. “He set out to weaken NATO, but NATO is bigger, stronger, and more united than ever before, with two new members, Finland and Sweden,” said the Democratic leader. Gaza war: It's high time to ease sufferings Biden spoke about the October 7 Hamas on Israel, in which hundreds of innocent civilians were killed and hundreds were taken hostage. “I’ve met with the families of those hostages. I’ve grieved with them,” the US president said. “They’re going through hell.” Also read: Joe Biden bids farewell to world leaders as he makes his final appearance at UN He also talked about the ‘hell’ the Gazans were going through as a result of the devastating war. “Innocent civilians in Gaza are also going through hell. Thousands and thousands killed, including aid workers. Too many families dislocated, crowding in the tents, facing a dire humanitarian situation.” Biden said now it was high time that both parties come to the talking table and ease the sufferings in Gaza. On dropping out of presidential race Biden defended his decision to drop out of the presidential race by saying staying in power is not the most important thing. “Being president has been the honour of my life,” the US president said. “There’s so much more I want to get done.” “As much as I love the job, I love my country more. I decided, after 50 years of public service, it’s time for a new generation of leadership to take my nation forward,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Putin’s war has failed, it's time to end sufferings in Gaza,’ says Biden in final UNGA address

US President Joe Biden said that his administration is seeking to reduce regional tensions as sweeping Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon and retaliatory Hezbollah rocket attacks have raised the specter of all-out war.

Joe Biden Says US Working To De-Escalate Tensions As Israel Strikes Lebanon

joe-biden

Joe Biden, News on Joe Biden, stories on Joe Biden, articles on Joe Biden, Joe Biden stories at Wion, Joe Biden news, Joe Biden latest news

joe biden