February saw deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon and the fragile Cerrado savanna hit record highs. As per the latest figures released by the Brazilian government on Friday, last month 322 square kilometres (or 124 square miles) of forest cover were destroyed in Brazil's share of the world's biggest rainforest. This is 62 per cent higher that the previous record established in&nbsp;February 2022. The data based on the national space agency's DETER surveillance programme shows the extent of challenges faced by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in his quest to reverse surging environmental destruction.

In Cerrado, satellite data showed 558 square kilometres of destruction. This is up 99 per cent from February 2022 and nearly double the February 2020 record of 283 square kilometres.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Wideangle | Can Lula save the Amazon?

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The numbers are no surprise. As per an AFP report, deforestation in the Amazon had already broken the record for February just 17 days into the month. However, these were not the figures President Lula was hoping for after two months in office.&nbsp;

Amazon forest, which is often referred to as the "lungs of the planet", is a critical buffer against global warming.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-forest-cover-four-times-the-size-of-manhattan-destroyed-in-december-2022-report-550171">Amazon forest cover four times the size of Manhattan destroyed in December 2022: Report</a>

Lula has vowed to reverse the environmental destruction rampant under his predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro. He is even facing international pressure to make good on his promise that "Brazil is back" as a partner in the fight against climate change.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/climate-extremes-in-amazon-rainforest-directly-impact-those-in-tibetan-plateau-556681">Climate extremes in Amazon rainforest directly impact those in Tibetan Plateau</a>

Environmental groups seem to have given Lula a pass. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Brazil office Frederico Machado in a statement said, "It's difficult to reverse the damage of an anti-environmental policy in so little time."

"Reducing deforestation will only happen when there is a consistent strengthening of the institutions responsible for policing it," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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February saw deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon and the fragile Cerrado savanna hit record highs. As per the latest figures released by the Brazilian government on Friday, last month 322 square kilometres (or 124 square miles) of forest cover were destroyed in Brazil's share of the world's biggest rainforest.

February saw deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon and the fragile Cerrado savanna hit record highs. As per the latest figures released by the Brazilian government on Friday, last month 322 square kilometres (or 124 square miles) of forest cover were destroyed in Brazil's share of the world's biggest rainforest. This is 62 per cent higher that the previous record established in February 2022. The data based on the national space agency's DETER surveillance programme shows the extent of challenges faced by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in his quest to reverse surging environmental destruction. In Cerrado, satellite data showed 558 square kilometres of destruction. This is up 99 per cent from February 2022 and nearly double the February 2020 record of 283 square kilometres. Watch | WION Wideangle | Can Lula save the Amazon? The numbers are no surprise. As per an AFP report, deforestation in the Amazon had already broken the record for February just 17 days into the month. However, these were not the figures President Lula was hoping for after two months in office. Amazon forest, which is often referred to as the "lungs of the planet", is a critical buffer against global warming. Also read | Amazon forest cover four times the size of Manhattan destroyed in December 2022: Report Lula has vowed to reverse the environmental destruction rampant under his predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro. He is even facing international pressure to make good on his promise that "Brazil is back" as a partner in the fight against climate change. Also read | Climate extremes in Amazon rainforest directly impact those in Tibetan Plateau Environmental groups seem to have given Lula a pass. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Brazil office Frederico Machado in a statement said, "It's difficult to reverse the damage of an anti-environmental policy in so little time." "Reducing deforestation will only happen when there is a consistent strengthening of the institutions responsible for policing it," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Worst-ever’ data shows Feb deforestation in Amazon rainforest broke previous record by 62%

A Texas man has accused three women of murder and has sued them for allegedly helping his ex-wife obtain abortion pills. This, as per Bloomberg, is the first of its kind case under Texas' wrongful-death law. This is the first such case since the United States overturned Roe v. Wade. Washington Post says that the lawsuit could signal a new phase in the anti-abortion strategy.&nbsp;The case comes just days after a South Carolina woman was criminally charged for allegedly taking abortion pills to end her pregnancy.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;U.S. FDA allows the sale of abortion pills at retail pharmacies

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Marcus Silva, the man behind the case, is represented by the former Texas solicitor general Jonathan Mitchell, architect of the Texas law that allows residents to sue anyone they suspect of "aiding and abetting" an abortion.&nbsp;

Silva alleges that his ex-wife came to know about the pregnancy in July 2022, two months after filing for divorce, in May 2022. The divorce was finalised in February 2023.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-five-pregnant-women-sue-the-state-of-texas-over-abortion-ban-569481">In a first, five pregnant women sue the state of Texas over abortion ban</a>

As per photos of ex-wife’s purported text messages which Silva submitted as evidence, she told the defendants: "I know either way he will use it against me. If I told him before, which I’m not, he would use it as [a way to] try to stay with me. And after the fact, I know he will try to act like he has some right to the decision."

The man alleges that his ex-wife's two friends illegally obtained abortion pills to terminate the pregnancy, while another woman delivered the pills. He is demanding damages amounting to $1 million and a prohibition blocking the three women from distributing abortion pills.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-woman-arrested-for-self-administering-abortion-pills-568471">American woman arrested for self-administering abortion pills</a>

Currently, in Texas, abortion is illegal except in cases of certain medical emergencies. Those performing an abortion or helping someone seek an abortion risk up to life in prison, along with a civil penalty of no less than $100,000.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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A Texas man has accused three women of murder and has sued them for allegedly helping his ex-wife obtain abortion pills. This, as per Bloomberg, is the first of its kind case under Texas' wrongful-death law.

A Texas man has accused three women of murder and has sued them for allegedly helping his ex-wife obtain abortion pills. This, as per Bloomberg, is the first of its kind case under Texas' wrongful-death law. This is the first such case since the United States overturned Roe v. Wade. Washington Post says that the lawsuit could signal a new phase in the anti-abortion strategy. The case comes just days after a South Carolina woman was criminally charged for allegedly taking abortion pills to end her pregnancy. Watch | U.S. FDA allows the sale of abortion pills at retail pharmacies Marcus Silva, the man behind the case, is represented by the former Texas solicitor general Jonathan Mitchell, architect of the Texas law that allows residents to sue anyone they suspect of "aiding and abetting" an abortion. Silva alleges that his ex-wife came to know about the pregnancy in July 2022, two months after filing for divorce, in May 2022. The divorce was finalised in February 2023. Also read | In a first, five pregnant women sue the state of Texas over abortion ban As per photos of ex-wife’s purported text messages which Silva submitted as evidence, she told the defendants: "I know either way he will use it against me. If I told him before, which I’m not, he would use it as [a way to] try to stay with me. And after the fact, I know he will try to act like he has some right to the decision." The man alleges that his ex-wife's two friends illegally obtained abortion pills to terminate the pregnancy, while another woman delivered the pills. He is demanding damages amounting to $1 million and a prohibition blocking the three women from distributing abortion pills. Also read | American woman arrested for self-administering abortion pills Currently, in Texas, abortion is illegal except in cases of certain medical emergencies. Those performing an abortion or helping someone seek an abortion risk up to life in prison, along with a civil penalty of no less than $100,000. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘First of its kind’: Texas man sues ex-wife’s friends for supplying abortion pills; seeks $1mn in damages

The United Kingdom is all set to unveil a hotly debated law that seeks to stop illegal migrant crossings across the English channel. It will reportedly deport asylum seekers to unspecified "safe third countries". In other news, Japan was forced to trigger the self-destruction of its rocket after the space vehicle encountered engine failure.&nbsp;Meanwhile, amid soaring temperatures in Australia's New South Wales&nbsp;(NSW) region, the nation's&nbsp;Bureau of Meteorology has warned that hot and dry conditions, accompanied by gusty winds, will elevate bushfire danger levels. Finally, scroll to the end of WION's morning brief to see tech mogul Bill Gates' Instagram post praising&nbsp;India's love for innovation.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-unveil-new-law-that-deports-asylum-seekers-to-as-of-yet-unspecified-safe-third-countries-569382">UK to unveil new law that deports asylum seekers to as of yet unspecified 'safe third countries'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/07/337125-new-wion-9.png?imwidth=1920" />The United Kingdom government&nbsp;will unveil a highly anticipated yet controversial bill aimed at stopping illegal migrant crossings across the English Channel. It would ban those making the perilous journey using small boats from claiming asylum in the country and will deport them swiftly.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/space-wreck-heres-why-japan-was-forced-to-destroy-a-rocket-in-space-569386">Space wreck: Here's why Japan was forced to destroy a rocket in space</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/07/337129-untitled-design-2023-03-07t085155401.png?imwidth=1920" />Japan faced a major defeat in its space endeavour it was forced to destroy a new medium-lift rocket it launched into space on Tuesday after the vehicle's second-stage engine failed to ignite.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-faces-bush-fire-threat-as-temperatures-reach-two-year-high-of-40degc-569395">Australia faces bush fire threat as temperatures reach two-year high of 40°C</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/07/337137-new-wion-10.png?imwidth=1920" />As a severe heatwave pushes temperatures in several regions, including Sydney, Australian officials on Tuesday warned of a soaring risk of bushfires.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/watch-bill-gates-drives-an-electric-auto-as-manna-dey-kishore-kumar-croon-in-the-background-569368">WATCH: Bill Gates drives an electric auto as Manna Dey, Kishore Kumar croon in the background</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/07/337117-untitled-design-2023-03-07t075124591.png?imwidth=1920" />Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates took to Instagram to praise India's love for innovation. Gates drove a Mahindra Treo electric auto around town and posted the video on his Instagram with a lovely, old Hindi song playing in the background. The electric auto, Gates wrote, has three wheels, zero emissions and makes no noise, well, except for the horn of course.

Watch |&nbsp;Biden going back on promises to fight climate change? Activists rally against Alaska oil project

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The United Kingdom is all set to unveil a hotly debated law that seeks to stop illegal migrant crossings across the English channel. It will reportedly deport asylum seekers to unspecified "safe third countries".

The United Kingdom is all set to unveil a hotly debated law that seeks to stop illegal migrant crossings across the English channel. It will reportedly deport asylum seekers to unspecified "safe third countries". In other news, Japan was forced to trigger the self-destruction of its rocket after the space vehicle encountered engine failure. Meanwhile, amid soaring temperatures in Australia's New South Wales (NSW) region, the nation's Bureau of Meteorology has warned that hot and dry conditions, accompanied by gusty winds, will elevate bushfire danger levels. Finally, scroll to the end of WION's morning brief to see tech mogul Bill Gates' Instagram post praising India's love for innovation. Click on the headlines to read more: UK to unveil new law that deports asylum seekers to as of yet unspecified 'safe third countries' The United Kingdom government will unveil a highly anticipated yet controversial bill aimed at stopping illegal migrant crossings across the English Channel. It would ban those making the perilous journey using small boats from claiming asylum in the country and will deport them swiftly. Space wreck: Here's why Japan was forced to destroy a rocket in space Japan faced a major defeat in its space endeavour it was forced to destroy a new medium-lift rocket it launched into space on Tuesday after the vehicle's second-stage engine failed to ignite. Australia faces bush fire threat as temperatures reach two-year high of 40°C As a severe heatwave pushes temperatures in several regions, including Sydney, Australian officials on Tuesday warned of a soaring risk of bushfires. WATCH: Bill Gates drives an electric auto as Manna Dey, Kishore Kumar croon in the background Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates took to Instagram to praise India's love for innovation. Gates drove a Mahindra Treo electric auto around town and posted the video on his Instagram with a lovely, old Hindi song playing in the background. The electric auto, Gates wrote, has three wheels, zero emissions and makes no noise, well, except for the horn of course. Watch | Biden going back on promises to fight climate change? Activists rally against Alaska oil project

Morning news brief: Japan forced to self-destruct rocket, UK to unveil new anti-migrant law, and more

The UK government will unveil a highly anticipated yet controversial bill on Tuesday aimed at stopping illegal migrant crossings across the English Channel. It would ban those making the perilous journey using small boats from claiming asylum in the country and will deport them swiftly. If passed, the draft law will also prevent those deported from re-entering the UK and ever claiming British citizenship. The home secretary will have the duty to carry out these deportations, according to reports. The proposed legislation has been heavily criticised by rights groups who claim it is unworkable and unfairly targets refugees. Ministers from PM Rishi Sunak's government, however, claim it is necessary.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UK New law to stop small boat migrants

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Tackling the migrant issue was one of five key priorities outlined by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in January. His party, which as per Reuters is languishing in polls, is under severe pressure to handle the issue and the PM is even facing pressure from within his party to come up with an appropriate solution.

AFP reports that the new law comes days before a summit with French President Emmanuel Macron. The Friday summit reportedly has cooperation&nbsp;to "stop the boats" high on its agenda.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/enough-is-enough-uk-set-to-introduce-new-law-to-crack-down-on-illegal-migrants-568691">'Enough is enough,' UK set to introduce new law to crack down on illegal migrants</a>

"(It) will ensure that people arriving in the UK illegally are detained and promptly returned to their home country or a safe third country," said an interior ministry spokesperson, while stressing the need for the law and the "vital" role France plays to curb crossings.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the British government has claimed that its latest attempt at putting a stop to the illegal crossings will not breach Britain's obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-court-to-rule-if-governments-migrants-deportation-flights-to-rwanda-are-legal-544438">London court says government plan to deport migrants to Rwanda lawful</a>

Migrants will only be deported to "safe third countries" it said. However, these countries are yet to be specified.

The plan follows an equally contentious law which was unveiled last year. The Nationality and Borders Act, among other things, allowed the government to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda. No flights for it have yet taken place thanks to the repeated appeals against the worrisome law.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The UK government will unveil a highly anticipated yet controversial bill on Tuesday aimed at stopping illegal migrant crossings across the English Channel. It would ban those making the perilous journey using small boats from claiming asylum in the country and will deport them swiftly.

The UK government will unveil a highly anticipated yet controversial bill on Tuesday aimed at stopping illegal migrant crossings across the English Channel. It would ban those making the perilous journey using small boats from claiming asylum in the country and will deport them swiftly. If passed, the draft law will also prevent those deported from re-entering the UK and ever claiming British citizenship. The home secretary will have the duty to carry out these deportations, according to reports. The proposed legislation has been heavily criticised by rights groups who claim it is unworkable and unfairly targets refugees. Ministers from PM Rishi Sunak's government, however, claim it is necessary. Watch | UK New law to stop small boat migrants Tackling the migrant issue was one of five key priorities outlined by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in January. His party, which as per Reuters is languishing in polls, is under severe pressure to handle the issue and the PM is even facing pressure from within his party to come up with an appropriate solution. AFP reports that the new law comes days before a summit with French President Emmanuel Macron. The Friday summit reportedly has cooperation to "stop the boats" high on its agenda. Also read | 'Enough is enough,' UK set to introduce new law to crack down on illegal migrants "(It) will ensure that people arriving in the UK illegally are detained and promptly returned to their home country or a safe third country," said an interior ministry spokesperson, while stressing the need for the law and the "vital" role France plays to curb crossings. Reportedly, the British government has claimed that its latest attempt at putting a stop to the illegal crossings will not breach Britain's obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Also read | London court says government plan to deport migrants to Rwanda lawful Migrants will only be deported to "safe third countries" it said. However, these countries are yet to be specified. The plan follows an equally contentious law which was unveiled last year. The Nationality and Borders Act, among other things, allowed the government to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda. No flights for it have yet taken place thanks to the repeated appeals against the worrisome law. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK to unveil new law that deports asylum seekers to unspecified 'safe third countries'

Global progress on women's rights is "won over decades (is) vanishing before our eyes" said United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Monday. He warned that gender equality remains a distant goal. Speaking during a speech ahead of International Women's Day on March 8, he said, "Gender equality is growing more distant. On the current track, UN Women puts it 300 years away."

Ticking off a litany of abuses like maternal mortality, child marriage, girls being denied education and more, that women face, he said that "women's rights are being abused, threatened, and violated around the world."&nbsp;

Mentioning the dire conditions in Afghanistan, he remarked, "women and girls have been erased from public life."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/140-years-and-counting-once-again-no-women-nominations-for-bank-of-japans-top-spots-561585">140 years and counting; Once again, no women nominations for Bank of Japan's top spots</a>

While he did not name other countries, Guterres stressed that "in many places, women's sexual and reproductive rights are being rolled back (and) in some countries, girls going to school risk kidnapping and assault."

"The patriarchy is fighting back. But so are we," remarked Guterres, adding "the United Nations stands with women and girls everywhere."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-inequality-has-cost-world-usd-70-trillion-since-1990-report-finds-368469" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-inequality-has-cost-world-usd-70-trillion-since-1990-report-finds-368469&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMqs2wrMn9AhVF8TgGHSPADNk4FBAWegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3AzeeP8cE0cx3z5Q0j1nzT" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-inequality-has-cost-world-usd-70-trillion-since-1990-report-finds-368469" target="_blank">Gender inequality&nbsp;has cost world USD 70 trillion since 1990</a>

Guterres called for "collective action" worldwide by governments, civil society and the private sector. The UN chief said they must invest more in "bridging the digital gender divide" and strive to provide gender-responsive education and improve skills training.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Global progress on women's rights is "won over decades (is) vanishing before our eyes" said United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Monday. He warned that gender equality remains a distant goal.

Global progress on women's rights is "won over decades (is) vanishing before our eyes" said United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Monday. He warned that gender equality remains a distant goal. Speaking during a speech ahead of International Women's Day on March 8, he said, "Gender equality is growing more distant. On the current track, UN Women puts it 300 years away." Ticking off a litany of abuses like maternal mortality, child marriage, girls being denied education and more, that women face, he said that "women's rights are being abused, threatened, and violated around the world." Mentioning the dire conditions in Afghanistan, he remarked, "women and girls have been erased from public life." Also read | 140 years and counting; Once again, no women nominations for Bank of Japan's top spots While he did not name other countries, Guterres stressed that "in many places, women's sexual and reproductive rights are being rolled back (and) in some countries, girls going to school risk kidnapping and assault." "The patriarchy is fighting back. But so are we," remarked Guterres, adding "the United Nations stands with women and girls everywhere." Also read | Gender inequality has cost world USD 70 trillion since 1990 Guterres called for "collective action" worldwide by governments, civil society and the private sector. The UN chief said they must invest more in "bridging the digital gender divide" and strive to provide gender-responsive education and improve skills training. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Patriarchy is fighting back...so are we': Gender equality is still 300 years away, says UN

As technology evolves and advances, scammers continue to discover ways to cheat people out of money. One latest scam that is duping telecom companies out of billions of dollars is the SIM box fraud. In this, international numbers pretend to be local, thereby robbing telecom operators of hefty international call fees. As per Communications Fraud Control Association's 'Fraud Loss Survey' report for 2021, globally the SIM box fraud has cost the telecom industry around $3.11 billion, or approximately 7.8 per cent of the industry's total revenue. During the past few years, it has actually emerged as one of the top telecom scams.

How does it work?

This is a bypass fraud. Scammers use Sim Boxes to redirect international calls over the internet and make them look like local calls.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chatgpt-ai-chatbot-fails-upsc-exam-will-it-do-ma-next-568340">ChatGPT AI chatbot fails UPSC 'exam', will it do MA next?</a>

As per Infosys, "a SIM box fraud diverts international calls to a cellular device through the internet. This device, called a SIM box, routes the connections back into the network as local calls, using hundreds of low-cost or even unpaid SIM cards, which are often obtained with forged identities."

They thus benefit by exploiting the "difference between local and international charges by paying just local rates or none at all to cell carriers after billing international rates from the source."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-start-up-cynlr-is-helping-industrial-robotic-arms-gain-vision-and-intelligence-567796">Indian start-up CynLr is helping industrial robotic arms gain ’vision and intelligence’</a>

While the caller still pays the higher international call rates, the middleman gets away with paying the local rates and the local telecom operator suffers revenue loss.

Additionally, the end users get affected by poor service quality, which also reflects badly on the telecom operator. Infosys warns that these frauds can also become a threat to national security as they can bypass legal intercepts which monitor criminal activity. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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As technology evolves and advances, scammers continue to discover ways to cheat people out of money. One latest scam that is duping telecom companies out of billions of dollars is the SIM box fraud.

As technology evolves and advances, scammers continue to discover ways to cheat people out of money. One latest scam that is duping telecom companies out of billions of dollars is the SIM box fraud. In this, international numbers pretend to be local, thereby robbing telecom operators of hefty international call fees. As per Communications Fraud Control Association's 'Fraud Loss Survey' report for 2021, globally the SIM box fraud has cost the telecom industry around $3.11 billion, or approximately 7.8 per cent of the industry's total revenue. During the past few years, it has actually emerged as one of the top telecom scams. How does it work? This is a bypass fraud. Scammers use Sim Boxes to redirect international calls over the internet and make them look like local calls. Also read | ChatGPT AI chatbot fails UPSC 'exam', will it do MA next? As per Infosys, "a SIM box fraud diverts international calls to a cellular device through the internet. This device, called a SIM box, routes the connections back into the network as local calls, using hundreds of low-cost or even unpaid SIM cards, which are often obtained with forged identities." They thus benefit by exploiting the "difference between local and international charges by paying just local rates or none at all to cell carriers after billing international rates from the source." Also read | Indian start-up CynLr is helping industrial robotic arms gain ’vision and intelligence’ While the caller still pays the higher international call rates, the middleman gets away with paying the local rates and the local telecom operator suffers revenue loss. Additionally, the end users get affected by poor service quality, which also reflects badly on the telecom operator. Infosys warns that these frauds can also become a threat to national security as they can bypass legal intercepts which monitor criminal activity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

SIM box fraud costs telecom sector $3 billion. Here's what it is

The Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas won the parliamentary election on Sunday (March 5), with Tallinn's (the capital and most populous city of Estonia) administration remaining one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv. In other news, a&nbsp;new report alleges that the late Polish Pope John Paul II a.k.a Karol Wojtyla knew about child abuse in Poland's Catholic Church even before taking over as pontiff. Meanwhile, a Pennsylvanian woman named Patricia Kopta, who disappeared over 30 years ago and was&nbsp;believed to be dead by her family was recently found living in a nursing home in Puerto Rico. Finally, we also bring you a piece of fascinating astronomical news about the new moon.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/estonia-elections-pm-kallas-secures-big-win-for-reform-party-to-continue-backing-ukraine-568988">Estonia elections: PM Kallas secures big win for Reform party, to continue backing Ukraine</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/06/336919-the-battle-for-kyiv.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

With 98 per cent&nbsp;of the votes tallied, the results put Kallas' liberal party in second place with 16.1 per cent of the vote behind the far-right EKRE party's 31.5 per cent, reflecting voter concerns over rising living costs following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-polish-pope-john-paul-ii-covered-up-cases-of-paedophilia-in-church-report-568996">Former Polish Pope John Paul II covered up cases of paedophilia in church: Report</a>

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The report&nbsp;further claims that the late Pope helped cover the litany of abuses. The report is based on an investigation by Michal Gutowski for Polish TV broadcaster TVN. Gutowski claims that the polish pope was aware of the cases of Paedophile priests within the church while still serving as a cardinal in Krakow. Reportedly, to avoid a scandal, he transferred the priests to other far-away dioceses.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/83-year-old-pennsylvania-woman-missing-for-three-decades-and-though-to-be-dead-found-alive-in-puerto-rico-569004">83-year-old Pennsylvania woman missing for three decades and thought to be dead found alive in Puerto Rico</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/06/336932-untitled-design-2023-03-06t093025022.png?imwidth=1920" />

According to the missing person flier posted by the Pennsylvania Emergency Response Center, the 83-year-old woman was last seen in 1992 in Pittsburgh, CNN reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-explained-why-is-it-called-worm-moon-and-the-period-of-manifesting-your-dreams-568999">EXPLAINED: All about the Worm Moon and why is it the best time to manifest your dreams</a>

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The full moon for the Month is set to rise in the sky on March 7. It is the final full moon of the winter season and will shine bright and full on two nights - March 6 and March 7, although it has been lighting up the night sky for a few days and will continue to do so for a few more after March 7.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan media watchdog bans airing former Prime Minister Imran Khan's speeches

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The Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas won the parliamentary election on Sunday (March 5), with Tallinn's (the capital and most populous city of Estonia) administration remaining one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv.

The Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas won the parliamentary election on Sunday (March 5), with Tallinn's (the capital and most populous city of Estonia) administration remaining one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv. In other news, a new report alleges that the late Polish Pope John Paul II a.k.a Karol Wojtyla knew about child abuse in Poland's Catholic Church even before taking over as pontiff. Meanwhile, a Pennsylvanian woman named Patricia Kopta, who disappeared over 30 years ago and was believed to be dead by her family was recently found living in a nursing home in Puerto Rico. Finally, we also bring you a piece of fascinating astronomical news about the new moon. Click on the headlines to read more: Estonia elections: PM Kallas secures big win for Reform party, to continue backing Ukraine With 98 per cent of the votes tallied, the results put Kallas' liberal party in second place with 16.1 per cent of the vote behind the far-right EKRE party's 31.5 per cent, reflecting voter concerns over rising living costs following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Former Polish Pope John Paul II covered up cases of paedophilia in church: Report The report further claims that the late Pope helped cover the litany of abuses. The report is based on an investigation by Michal Gutowski for Polish TV broadcaster TVN. Gutowski claims that the polish pope was aware of the cases of Paedophile priests within the church while still serving as a cardinal in Krakow. Reportedly, to avoid a scandal, he transferred the priests to other far-away dioceses. 83-year-old Pennsylvania woman missing for three decades and thought to be dead found alive in Puerto Rico According to the missing person flier posted by the Pennsylvania Emergency Response Center, the 83-year-old woman was last seen in 1992 in Pittsburgh, CNN reported. EXPLAINED: All about the Worm Moon and why is it the best time to manifest your dreams The full moon for the Month is set to rise in the sky on March 7. It is the final full moon of the winter season and will shine bright and full on two nights - March 6 and March 7, although it has been lighting up the night sky for a few days and will continue to do so for a few more after March 7. Watch | Pakistan media watchdog bans airing former Prime Minister Imran Khan's speeches

Morning news brief: Estonia elections, Pope John Paul II covered up cases of paedophilia in church, & more

A new report alleges that the late ope John Paul II knew about child abuse in Poland's Catholic Church even before taking over as pontiff. It further claims that the late Pope helped cover the litany of abuses. The report is based on an investigation by Michal Gutowski for Polish TV broadcaster TVN. Gutowski claims that the pope, then known by his original name Karol Wojtyla, was aware of the cases of paedophile priests within the church while still serving as a cardinal in Krakow. Reportedly, to avoid a scandal, he transferred the priests to other far-away dioceses.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Report: 216,000 minors abused by French Catholic clergy

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In 2015, he even wrote a letter of recommendation to Vienna Cardinal Franz Koenig for one of the priests accused of paedophilia. The letter made no mention of the abuse accusations.

John Paul II was pope for 27 years — from 1978 until his death in 2005.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-ugly-face-of-child-sexual-abuse-in-catholic-church-562722">EXPLAINED: The ugly face of Child sexual abuse in Catholic church</a>

During his investigation, Gutowski talked to victims of the alleged paedophile priests. He also talked to the victim's families and former church diocese employees.

As proof, Gutowski, according to AFP, cites documents from former Communist-era SB secret police and rare church documents to which he managed to get access.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-5000-kids-have-been-sexually-abused-by-catholic-clergy-in-portugal-since-1950-report-561849">Around 5,000 kids have been sexually abused by Catholic clergy in Portugal since 1950: Report</a>

However, he was denied access to Krakow's diocese. In the past,&nbsp;the Polish church has refused to provide records to the judiciary or police on cases of church abuse of minors.

One of Gutowski's sources claimed to have in 1973 personally notified the former pope of acts of paedophilia. "Wojtyla first wanted to make sure it wasn't a bluff," claims the source.

The then-cardinal reportedly told him to keep the information under wraps, saying "he would deal with it."&nbsp;

Recent years have seen several reports of similar abuse of minors from the Polish church. Following the reports, especially in the past two years, several high-ranking church officials have been charged by the Vatican for covering up paedophilia by members of the clergy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new report alleges that the late ope John Paul II knew about child abuse in Poland's Catholic Church even before taking over as pontiff. It further claims that the late Pope helped cover the litany of abuses.

A new report alleges that the late ope John Paul II knew about child abuse in Poland's Catholic Church even before taking over as pontiff. It further claims that the late Pope helped cover the litany of abuses. The report is based on an investigation by Michal Gutowski for Polish TV broadcaster TVN. Gutowski claims that the pope, then known by his original name Karol Wojtyla, was aware of the cases of paedophile priests within the church while still serving as a cardinal in Krakow. Reportedly, to avoid a scandal, he transferred the priests to other far-away dioceses. Watch | Gravitas: Report: 216,000 minors abused by French Catholic clergy In 2015, he even wrote a letter of recommendation to Vienna Cardinal Franz Koenig for one of the priests accused of paedophilia. The letter made no mention of the abuse accusations. John Paul II was pope for 27 years — from 1978 until his death in 2005. Also read | EXPLAINED: The ugly face of Child sexual abuse in Catholic church During his investigation, Gutowski talked to victims of the alleged paedophile priests. He also talked to the victim's families and former church diocese employees. As proof, Gutowski, according to AFP, cites documents from former Communist-era SB secret police and rare church documents to which he managed to get access. Also read | Around 5,000 kids have been sexually abused by Catholic clergy in Portugal since 1950: Report However, he was denied access to Krakow's diocese. In the past, the Polish church has refused to provide records to the judiciary or police on cases of church abuse of minors. One of Gutowski's sources claimed to have in 1973 personally notified the former pope of acts of paedophilia. "Wojtyla first wanted to make sure it wasn't a bluff," claims the source. The then-cardinal reportedly told him to keep the information under wraps, saying "he would deal with it." Recent years have seen several reports of similar abuse of minors from the Polish church. Following the reports, especially in the past two years, several high-ranking church officials have been charged by the Vatican for covering up paedophilia by members of the clergy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former Pope John Paul II covered up cases of paedophilia in church: Report

Dramatically raising the stakes of the 2024 United States Presidential elections, Donald Trump on Saturday warned that he's the only candidate capable of saving America from "warmonger" Democrats and the "zealots and fools" of the mainstream Republican party. Addressing the annual Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington, the former president further reiterated his previous claim that the world may be heading towards "World War III."

He claimed, "Before I even arrive at the Oval Office, I will have the disastrous war between Russia and Ukraine settled. It will be settled quickly."

Watch |&nbsp;US: Donald J Trump dominates CPAC event 2023

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"I am the only candidate who can make this promise: I will prevent World War III."

As per him, thanks to the "great relationship" he shares with Vladimir Putin, the Russian President will listen to him, and the settlement "will take me no longer than one day."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-believes-world-war-iii-is-a-possibility-blames-stupid-people-for-russia-ukraine-conflict-escalation-523884">Trump believes 'World War III' is a possibility, blames 'stupid people' for Russia-Ukraine conflict escalation</a>

Invoking the mental image of a nation on its knees, Trump, as per AFP, told the conference that American citizens were "in an epic struggle to rescue our country from the people who hate it and want to absolutely destroy it."

Voters, according to him, were tired of "entrenched political dynasties in both parties, rotten special interests, China-loving politicians" and supporters of "endless foreign wars."

The 2023 edition of the conference drew a smaller crowd than usual but Trump's case for a second term was met with a packed room and chants of "Four more years, four more years!"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/justice-for-all-donald-trump-releases-song-featuring-jan-6-rioters-568523">‘Justice for All’: Donald Trump releases song featuring Jan 6 rioters</a>

"In 2016, I declared: I am your voice. Today, I add: I am your warrior. I am your justice. And for those who have been wronged and betrayed: I am your retribution," said Trump.

The politician&nbsp;has reportedly won the convention's unofficial poll of potential Republican leaders with 62 per cent of the vote, while with a much less 20 per cent DeSantis stood second.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Dramatically raising the stakes of the 2024 United States Presidential elections, Donald Trump on Saturday warned that he's the only candidate capable of saving America from "warmonger" Democrats and the "zealots and fools" of the mainstream Republican party.

Dramatically raising the stakes of the 2024 United States Presidential elections, Donald Trump on Saturday warned that he's the only candidate capable of saving America from "warmonger" Democrats and the "zealots and fools" of the mainstream Republican party. Addressing the annual Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington, the former president further reiterated his previous claim that the world may be heading towards "World War III." He claimed, "Before I even arrive at the Oval Office, I will have the disastrous war between Russia and Ukraine settled. It will be settled quickly." Watch | US: Donald J Trump dominates CPAC event 2023 "I am the only candidate who can make this promise: I will prevent World War III." As per him, thanks to the "great relationship" he shares with Vladimir Putin, the Russian President will listen to him, and the settlement "will take me no longer than one day." Also read | Trump believes 'World War III' is a possibility, blames 'stupid people' for Russia-Ukraine conflict escalation Invoking the mental image of a nation on its knees, Trump, as per AFP, told the conference that American citizens were "in an epic struggle to rescue our country from the people who hate it and want to absolutely destroy it." Voters, according to him, were tired of "entrenched political dynasties in both parties, rotten special interests, China-loving politicians" and supporters of "endless foreign wars." The 2023 edition of the conference drew a smaller crowd than usual but Trump's case for a second term was met with a packed room and chants of "Four more years, four more years!" Also read | ‘Justice for All’: Donald Trump releases song featuring Jan 6 rioters "In 2016, I declared: I am your voice. Today, I add: I am your warrior. I am your justice. And for those who have been wronged and betrayed: I am your retribution," said Trump. The politician has reportedly won the convention's unofficial poll of potential Republican leaders with 62 per cent of the vote, while with a much less 20 per cent DeSantis stood second. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Donald Trump says world is heading towards 'World War III' which only he can prevent

United Kingdom's former Health Secretary Matt Hancock has once again made the headlines for all the wrong reasons. A spate of recently leaked WhatsApp texts has revealed controversial messages by the former government official. One shocking conversation had him and his co-worker, UK Cabinet Secretary Simon Chase, joke about locking travellers in quarantine hotels during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet another message suggests that the former health secretary rejected expert guidance during the pandemic. These are but two examples of the many controversies surrounding the politician.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Former UK health secretary Matt Hancock's leaked texts

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Here's a lowdown of the colourful controversies surrounding Matt Hancock:

<h2>The "Potemkin testing regime"</h2>

During his time as the UK health secretary, Hancock reportedly created a Potemkin testing regime.

In politics, "Potemkin" refers to a construction, literal or figurative, the sole purpose of which is to create a facade that everything is okay and that the country is faring well.

In April 2020, it emerged that to meet a daily 100,000 COVID-19 test target, he changed the method used to count the tests. He made it so that the up to 40,000 home test kits, which had been sent but not yet completed, were included in the tally. This change was challenged by the UK Statistics Authority and came to be known as the "Potemkin testing regime".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-outrageous-ex-uk-health-secretary-matt-hancock-denies-claims-he-ignored-covid-care-home-advice-567376">'It is outrageous': Ex-UK health secretary Matt Hancock denies claims&nbsp;he ignored Covid care home advice</a>

<h2>Social distancing and extramarital affair</h2>

This particular controversy ended&nbsp;with Hancock's resignation from the post of Britain's health secretary.

On June 25th 2021, it came to light that he broke the country's social distancing rules along with aide Gina Coladangelo.&nbsp;

What made the revelation even more damning was the fact that he and Coladangelo were engaged in an extramarital affair. CCTV images of them kissing went viral at a time when people were unable to hug or comfort friends and family at funerals.

Hancock had to issue an apology, which was even accepted by the then PM Boris Johnson. However, the controversial politician still chose to resign saying "those of us who make these rules have got to stick by them.

This incident not only ended his stint as the health secretary but also his marriage of 15 years. Soon after the footage went viral, the politician and his&nbsp;wife&nbsp;Martha Hancock split.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-matt-hancocks-leaked-covid-messages-revive-painful-pandemic-debate-568108">UK: Matt Hancock's leaked Covid messages revive painful pandemic debates</a>

The incident also raised questions regarding a possible breach of the Official Secrets Act owing to the presence of cameras in the Secretary of State's office. As per Wales Online, former Cabinet ministers Alan Johnson and Rory Stewart, both said that "there had never been cameras in their offices during their time in government."

As per the Wales Online report, the CCTV camera that captured Hancock and his aide in the compromising position was hidden inside a smoke detector. The minister also broke social distancing and Covid rules on other occasions, including one where he was photographed riding in a chauffeur-driven car without a face mask and another where he slapped a colleague on the back despite social distancing measures in place.

<h2>The 'I'm A Celeb' fiasco</h2>

In November of last year, the politician made headlines after joining the reality TV show 'I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!' as a contestant.

An online petition to stop him from appearing on the show gathered around 40,000 signatures. He still participated and even emerged as the third-place winner of the show.

However, his appearance on the show invited lots of ridicule and got him swiftly suspended as an MP of the Conservative Party.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leaked-messages-reveal-uk-senior-ministers-joked-about-locking-up-travelers-during-covid-568352">Leaked messages reveal UK senior ministers joked about locking up travellers during Covid</a>

<h2>The 'Pandemic diaries'</h2>

The recent messages that revealed incidents of Hancock joking about&nbsp;locking travellers in quarantine hotels during the COVID-19 pandemic and rejecting advice from healthcare experts are part of the 'Pandemic Diaries' controversy.

In April 2022, Hancock announced that he would publish his 'diaries' from during the pandemic in the form of a book. This book was coauthored by Journalist Isabel Oakeshott.

It is not based on Hancock's diaries, but rather on his recollections from the pandemic period. As part of the research for the book, Hancock shared with Oakeshott more than 100,000 WhatsApp messages from his conversations with other ministers' aides and public health advisers.

Among them were also messages that detailed Hancock's reaction to the CCTV footage of him and his aide, Gina Coladangelo, canoodling.

"Not sure there's much news value in that and I can't say it's very enjoyable viewing," remarked Hancock as per the leaked messages.

These messages, which were handed over to the journalist under a confidentiality agreement, were made public by Oakeshott.

She says that the decision to make them public is in the public interest and that "no journalist worth their salt would sit on a cache of information on such a historic matter and cover that up." As per a Guardian report, Oakeshott did accept that "her relationship with Matt Hancock soured after he abandoned her in the middle of writing their book in order to appear on I’m a Celebrity."

This move was termed a "massive betrayal and breach of trust," by Hancock. However, not everyone agrees. As&nbsp;BBC puts it, these messages are "an insight into decision-making at the heart of government during the most testing and turbulent time in recent British history," and a "brilliant scoop."

<h2>Other controversies:</h2>

In 2014, he had come under fire for sharing a poem on Twitter which suggested the Labour Party was "full of queers". A year later, he was criticised for hiring a private jet to fly back to London from a climate conference in Scotland.

While these remain the major controversies surrounding Hancock, there have been many other albeit&nbsp;less colourful&nbsp;ones.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Kingdom's former Health Secretary Matt Hancock has once again made the headlines for all the wrong reasons. A spate of recently leaked WhatsApp texts has revealed controversial messages by the former government official.

United Kingdom's former Health Secretary Matt Hancock has once again made the headlines for all the wrong reasons. A spate of recently leaked WhatsApp texts has revealed controversial messages by the former government official. One shocking conversation had him and his co-worker, UK Cabinet Secretary Simon Chase, joke about locking travellers in quarantine hotels during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet another message suggests that the former health secretary rejected expert guidance during the pandemic. These are but two examples of the many controversies surrounding the politician. Watch | Former UK health secretary Matt Hancock's leaked texts Here's a lowdown of the colourful controversies surrounding Matt Hancock: The "Potemkin testing regime" During his time as the UK health secretary, Hancock reportedly created a Potemkin testing regime. In politics, "Potemkin" refers to a construction, literal or figurative, the sole purpose of which is to create a facade that everything is okay and that the country is faring well. In April 2020, it emerged that to meet a daily 100,000 COVID-19 test target, he changed the method used to count the tests. He made it so that the up to 40,000 home test kits, which had been sent but not yet completed, were included in the tally. This change was challenged by the UK Statistics Authority and came to be known as the "Potemkin testing regime". Also read | 'It is outrageous': Ex-UK health secretary Matt Hancock denies claims he ignored Covid care home advice Social distancing and extramarital affair This particular controversy ended with Hancock's resignation from the post of Britain's health secretary. On June 25th 2021, it came to light that he broke the country's social distancing rules along with aide Gina Coladangelo. What made the revelation even more damning was the fact that he and Coladangelo were engaged in an extramarital affair. CCTV images of them kissing went viral at a time when people were unable to hug or comfort friends and family at funerals. Hancock had to issue an apology, which was even accepted by the then PM Boris Johnson. However, the controversial politician still chose to resign saying "those of us who make these rules have got to stick by them. This incident not only ended his stint as the health secretary but also his marriage of 15 years. Soon after the footage went viral, the politician and his wife Martha Hancock split. Also read | UK: Matt Hancock's leaked Covid messages revive painful pandemic debates The incident also raised questions regarding a possible breach of the Official Secrets Act owing to the presence of cameras in the Secretary of State's office. As per Wales Online, former Cabinet ministers Alan Johnson and Rory Stewart, both said that "there had never been cameras in their offices during their time in government." As per the Wales Online report, the CCTV camera that captured Hancock and his aide in the compromising position was hidden inside a smoke detector. The minister also broke social distancing and Covid rules on other occasions, including one where he was photographed riding in a chauffeur-driven car without a face mask and another where he slapped a colleague on the back despite social distancing measures in place. The 'I'm A Celeb' fiasco In November of last year, the politician made headlines after joining the reality TV show 'I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!' as a contestant. An online petition to stop him from appearing on the show gathered around 40,000 signatures. He still participated and even emerged as the third-place winner of the show. However, his appearance on the show invited lots of ridicule and got him swiftly suspended as an MP of the Conservative Party. Also read | Leaked messages reveal UK senior ministers joked about locking up travellers during Covid The 'Pandemic diaries' The recent messages that revealed incidents of Hancock joking about locking travellers in quarantine hotels during the COVID-19 pandemic and rejecting advice from healthcare experts are part of the 'Pandemic Diaries' controversy. In April 2022, Hancock announced that he would publish his 'diaries' from during the pandemic in the form of a book. This book was coauthored by Journalist Isabel Oakeshott. It is not based on Hancock's diaries, but rather on his recollections from the pandemic period. As part of the research for the book, Hancock shared with Oakeshott more than 100,000 WhatsApp messages from his conversations with other ministers' aides and public health advisers. Among them were also messages that detailed Hancock's reaction to the CCTV footage of him and his aide, Gina Coladangelo, canoodling. "Not sure there's much news value in that and I can't say it's very enjoyable viewing," remarked Hancock as per the leaked messages. These messages, which were handed over to the journalist under a confidentiality agreement, were made public by Oakeshott. She says that the decision to make them public is in the public interest and that "no journalist worth their salt would sit on a cache of information on such a historic matter and cover that up." As per a Guardian report, Oakeshott did accept that "her relationship with Matt Hancock soured after he abandoned her in the middle of writing their book in order to appear on I’m a Celebrity." This move was termed a "massive betrayal and breach of trust," by Hancock. However, not everyone agrees. As BBC puts it, these messages are "an insight into decision-making at the heart of government during the most testing and turbulent time in recent British history," and a "brilliant scoop." Other controversies: In 2014, he had come under fire for sharing a poem on Twitter which suggested the Labour Party was "full of queers". A year later, he was criticised for hiring a private jet to fly back to London from a climate conference in Scotland. While these remain the major controversies surrounding Hancock, there have been many other albeit less colourful ones. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WION Explains | The many colourful controversies surrounding former UK health secretary Matt Hancock

The United Kingdom is all set to unveil a new law to crack down on migrants arriving in Britain in small boats from Europe across the English Channel. As per reports, the law will be unveiled on Tuesday. Talking to the Sun on Sunday newspaper, interior minister Suella Braverman said "enough is enough."&nbsp;For months now, the British government has been promising to step up action to tackle the issue of illegal migrants. More so, after the number of people making the perilous crossing across the English Channel soared to more than 45,000 last year.

"Enough is enough. The British people want this solved," said the Home Secretary adding, "they are sick of tough talk and inadequate action. We must stop the boats."

Watch |&nbsp;UK sees record migrant crossings despite Rwanda plan

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The past two years saw the number of migrants arriving on the English coast double. Tackling the migrant issue was one of five key priorities outlined by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in January. Sunak's party, as per Reuters, is languishing in polls, and the PM is even facing pressure from his own party's lawmakers to find an appropriate solution.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-court-to-rule-if-governments-migrants-deportation-flights-to-rwanda-are-legal-544438">London court says government plan to deport migrants to Rwanda lawful</a>

As per the Sun on Sunday report, the proposed new legislation will mean that the asylum claims of all those arriving to the nation on small boats will be ruled inadmissible. They will then be removed to a 'safe third country' as soon as possible.

Last year, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson agreed on a deal to send tens of thousands of migrants more than 4,000 miles away (6,400 km) to Rwanda; a country that has been accused of "a poor human rights record" by the British High Commissioner to Rwanda. The sentiment is shared by multiple European nations, six of which even expressed their concern for the same via an open letter marking Human Rights Day in 2015.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-faces-criticism-at-united-nations-for-its-migration-policies-533031">UK faces criticism at United Nations for its migration policies</a>

As per Reuters, the first flight under the deal was planned for June of last year, but it was blocked by a last-minute injunction from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). The strategy's legality was also challenged by a judicial review at the London High Court. The policy has been denounced by human rights groups and even reportedly by King Charles.

The High Court subsequently ruled it lawful in December, however, opponents are seeking to appeal that verdict. The legal battle is expected to end up in the UK Supreme Court and hence may get delayed for months.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Kingdom is all set to unveil a new law to crack down on migrants arriving in Britain in small boats from Europe across the English Channel. As per reports, the law will be unveiled on Tuesday.

The United Kingdom is all set to unveil a new law to crack down on migrants arriving in Britain in small boats from Europe across the English Channel. As per reports, the law will be unveiled on Tuesday. Talking to the Sun on Sunday newspaper, interior minister Suella Braverman said "enough is enough." For months now, the British government has been promising to step up action to tackle the issue of illegal migrants. More so, after the number of people making the perilous crossing across the English Channel soared to more than 45,000 last year. "Enough is enough. The British people want this solved," said the Home Secretary adding, "they are sick of tough talk and inadequate action. We must stop the boats." Watch | UK sees record migrant crossings despite Rwanda plan The past two years saw the number of migrants arriving on the English coast double. Tackling the migrant issue was one of five key priorities outlined by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in January. Sunak's party, as per Reuters, is languishing in polls, and the PM is even facing pressure from his own party's lawmakers to find an appropriate solution. Also read | London court says government plan to deport migrants to Rwanda lawful As per the Sun on Sunday report, the proposed new legislation will mean that the asylum claims of all those arriving to the nation on small boats will be ruled inadmissible. They will then be removed to a 'safe third country' as soon as possible. Last year, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson agreed on a deal to send tens of thousands of migrants more than 4,000 miles away (6,400 km) to Rwanda; a country that has been accused of "a poor human rights record" by the British High Commissioner to Rwanda. The sentiment is shared by multiple European nations, six of which even expressed their concern for the same via an open letter marking Human Rights Day in 2015. Also read | UK faces criticism at United Nations for its migration policies As per Reuters, the first flight under the deal was planned for June of last year, but it was blocked by a last-minute injunction from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). The strategy's legality was also challenged by a judicial review at the London High Court. The policy has been denounced by human rights groups and even reportedly by King Charles. The High Court subsequently ruled it lawful in December, however, opponents are seeking to appeal that verdict. The legal battle is expected to end up in the UK Supreme Court and hence may get delayed for months. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Enough is enough,' UK set to introduce new law to crack down on illegal migrants

A serial killer popularly known as the ‘Devil's Disciple’ may soon be out from behind the bars. Often referred to as Britain's forgotten serial killer, Patrick Mackay has been in prison for 48 years, since 1975. Mackay was jailed for killing two elderly women and a priest. He briefly also admitted to eight other killings before retracting the confession. The now 70-year-old, who is believed to be UK's longest-serving killer, is up for a parole hearing next month. However, families of his victims and former police chief, Retired Detective Inspector Ken Tappenden, who is part of the team credited for catching Mackay, warn that even after almost five decades, the serial killer remains a danger to society.

Tappenden, a member of the Kent Police team that apprehended the serial killer, as per Daily Mail, has warned that "Mackay should never be freed. He could turn and become extremely dangerous."

Gareth Johnson, an MP for Dartford in Kent, where Mackay was raised, has expressed a fear that the killer's freedom bid may succeed, given that he isn't as notorious as some other murderers. "If he's free, I don't think the country will be safe," he remarked, and added that the public must be made aware of Mackay's crimes.

MacKay has reportedly changed his identity during his years in prison and now goes by the name David Groves. Currently, he is in an open prison near Bristol and is even allowed day-release trips.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/delhi-crimes-gruesome-cases-that-shocked-the-indian-national-capital-534837">'Delhi crimes': Gruesome cases that shocked the Indian national capital</a>

"The nature of his crimes is so severe he should die in prison," says Johnson.&nbsp;Mackay's&nbsp; crimes are also the subject of a new Amazon Prime documentary, Confessions Of A Psycho Killer.

Mackay was diagnosed as a psychopath at the young age of 15 years. His victims include 87-year-old widow Isabella Griffiths from Chelsea and 89-year-old Adele Price, from Kensington; both died of strangulation. He split open the skull of his third victim, 62-year-old Catholic priest Anthony Crean, using an axe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-fbis-top-10-most-wanted-list-of-criminals-that-you-need-to-lookout-for-553499">In pics: FBI's top 10 most wanted list of criminals, that you need to lookout for</a>

Now, as per the Mirror, the Parole Board will evaluate whether Mackay can be granted freedom. The Board will grill him about the eight murders he had confessed to and&nbsp;subsequently retracted.&nbsp;

The publication quoting an anonymous source reports that the serial killer "will have to convince the panel his 'confession' to other murders was the ramblings of a man who was mentally ill at the time."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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A serial killer popularly known as the ‘Devil's Disciple’ may soon be out from behind the bars. Often referred to as Britain's forgotten serial killer, Patrick Mackay has been in prison for 48 years, since 1975.

A serial killer popularly known as the ‘Devil's Disciple’ may soon be out from behind the bars. Often referred to as Britain's forgotten serial killer, Patrick Mackay has been in prison for 48 years, since 1975. Mackay was jailed for killing two elderly women and a priest. He briefly also admitted to eight other killings before retracting the confession. The now 70-year-old, who is believed to be UK's longest-serving killer, is up for a parole hearing next month. However, families of his victims and former police chief, Retired Detective Inspector Ken Tappenden, who is part of the team credited for catching Mackay, warn that even after almost five decades, the serial killer remains a danger to society. Tappenden, a member of the Kent Police team that apprehended the serial killer, as per Daily Mail, has warned that "Mackay should never be freed. He could turn and become extremely dangerous." Gareth Johnson, an MP for Dartford in Kent, where Mackay was raised, has expressed a fear that the killer's freedom bid may succeed, given that he isn't as notorious as some other murderers. "If he's free, I don't think the country will be safe," he remarked, and added that the public must be made aware of Mackay's crimes. MacKay has reportedly changed his identity during his years in prison and now goes by the name David Groves. Currently, he is in an open prison near Bristol and is even allowed day-release trips. Also read | 'Delhi crimes': Gruesome cases that shocked the Indian national capital "The nature of his crimes is so severe he should die in prison," says Johnson. Mackay's crimes are also the subject of a new Amazon Prime documentary, Confessions Of A Psycho Killer. Mackay was diagnosed as a psychopath at the young age of 15 years. His victims include 87-year-old widow Isabella Griffiths from Chelsea and 89-year-old Adele Price, from Kensington; both died of strangulation. He split open the skull of his third victim, 62-year-old Catholic priest Anthony Crean, using an axe. Also read | In pics: FBI's top 10 most wanted list of criminals, that you need to lookout for Now, as per the Mirror, the Parole Board will evaluate whether Mackay can be granted freedom. The Board will grill him about the eight murders he had confessed to and subsequently retracted. The publication quoting an anonymous source reports that the serial killer "will have to convince the panel his 'confession' to other murders was the ramblings of a man who was mentally ill at the time." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK serial killer Patrick Mackay a.k.a. ‘Devil's Disciple’ may be released soon. Here's all you need to know

16 years to the day she murdered her five children, a Belgian woman has been euthanised at her own request. On February 28th, 2007, the woman Genevieve Lhermitte slit the throats of her four daughters and one son. Following the mass murder, the woman then tried to take her own life by stabbing herself. However, her suicide attempt failed, and she ended up calling for emergency services. The brutal case shocked the country.&nbsp;

As per AFP, soon after the murders, in 2008, Lhermitte was sentenced to life in prison. Ten years later, in 2019, she was moved to a psychiatric hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/delhi-crimes-gruesome-cases-that-shocked-the-indian-national-capital-534837">'Delhi crimes': Gruesome cases that shocked the Indian national capital</a>

During the trial, her lawyers had argued that the mother of five was mentally disturbed and should not be sent to prison. However, the jury found her guilty of premeditated murder and sentenced her to life in jail.

Reportedly, Lhermitte, who carried out the quintuple murder while her husband had gone out, was seeking psychiatrist care even before the shocking incident.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/as-race-to-space-shoots-up-junk-in-earths-orbit-us-space-command-releases-responsible-space-behaviours-568413">As space race zooms junk in Earth’s orbit, US Space Command shares ‘responsible space behaviours’</a>

Lhermitte's lawyer, Nicolas Cohen, confirmed his client's death via euthanasia. Reportedly, she availed it under the country's laws that allow people to choose euthanasia if they are deemed to be suffering from "unbearable" physical or psychological suffering.

For an individual to choose euthanasia, they must be conscious of their decision and be able to express their wish in a consistent, reasonable manner.

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"It is this specific procedure that Mrs Lhermitte followed, with the various medical opinions having been collected," said her lawyer.

Speaking to RTL-TVI channel, psychologist Emilie Maroit said that Lhermitte might have chosen the 16th anniversary of her children's murder as a "symbolic gesture in respect" for them.

(With inputs from agencies)

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16 years to the day she murdered her five children, a Belgian woman has been euthanised at her own request. On February 28th, 2007, the woman Genevieve Lhermitte slit the throats of her four daughters and one son.

16 years to the day she murdered her five children, a Belgian woman has been euthanised at her own request. On February 28th, 2007, the woman Genevieve Lhermitte slit the throats of her four daughters and one son. Following the mass murder, the woman then tried to take her own life by stabbing herself. However, her suicide attempt failed, and she ended up calling for emergency services. The brutal case shocked the country. As per AFP, soon after the murders, in 2008, Lhermitte was sentenced to life in prison. Ten years later, in 2019, she was moved to a psychiatric hospital. Also read | 'Delhi crimes': Gruesome cases that shocked the Indian national capital During the trial, her lawyers had argued that the mother of five was mentally disturbed and should not be sent to prison. However, the jury found her guilty of premeditated murder and sentenced her to life in jail. Reportedly, Lhermitte, who carried out the quintuple murder while her husband had gone out, was seeking psychiatrist care even before the shocking incident. Also read | As space race zooms junk in Earth’s orbit, US Space Command shares ‘responsible space behaviours’ Lhermitte's lawyer, Nicolas Cohen, confirmed his client's death via euthanasia. Reportedly, she availed it under the country's laws that allow people to choose euthanasia if they are deemed to be suffering from "unbearable" physical or psychological suffering. For an individual to choose euthanasia, they must be conscious of their decision and be able to express their wish in a consistent, reasonable manner. "It is this specific procedure that Mrs Lhermitte followed, with the various medical opinions having been collected," said her lawyer. Speaking to RTL-TVI channel, psychologist Emilie Maroit said that Lhermitte might have chosen the 16th anniversary of her children's murder as a "symbolic gesture in respect" for them. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Belgian mother slits throats of her five children and 16 years later chooses to die by euthanasia

In a surprise move, video conferencing platform Zoom has sacked its president Greg Tomb. He served as the company's president for less than a year. He took over the reins in June 2022, and as per BBC, was actively overseeing the company's sales. As per a Zoom spokesperson, the company is not looking to replace Tomb.&nbsp;

At the time of his hiring, Zoom's chief executive officer Eric Yuan, while announcing the appointment, said: "Greg is a highly respected technology industry leader and has deep experience in helping to scale companies at critical junctures."

Watch |&nbsp;Zoom&nbsp;sheds about 1,300 jobs globally

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However, as per a regulatory filing, the former Google executive's contract has been abruptly terminated "without cause".

Zoom, the video conferencing software giant, witnessed a boom during the COVID-19 pandemic days.&nbsp;

At the height of the pandemic, the company emerged as one of the biggest technology winners. With everything from meetings to classes, to weddings and even funerals shifting online, by April 2020, the company reported a whopping 300 million daily participants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/zoom-video-struggles-to-thrive-in-post-pandemic-world-announces-layoff-of-15-staff-559802">Zoom video struggles to thrive in post-pandemic world, announces 15 % staff layoff</a>

However, post-pandemic, Zoom, like fellow tech companies, was unable to maintain its pandemic boom and was forced to lay off staff. &nbsp;

The company which during the two years of the pandemic tripled its headcount in February of this year fired 15 per cent or 1300 people from its staff.

As per Yuan, they "didn't take as much time as we should have to thoroughly analyse our teams or assess if we were growing sustainably, toward the highest priorities."

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a surprise move, video conferencing platform Zoom has sacked its president Greg Tomb. He served as the company's president for less than a year. He took over the reins in June 2022, and as per BBC, was actively overseeing the company's sales.

In a surprise move, video conferencing platform Zoom has sacked its president Greg Tomb. He served as the company's president for less than a year. He took over the reins in June 2022, and as per BBC, was actively overseeing the company's sales. As per a Zoom spokesperson, the company is not looking to replace Tomb. At the time of his hiring, Zoom's chief executive officer Eric Yuan, while announcing the appointment, said: "Greg is a highly respected technology industry leader and has deep experience in helping to scale companies at critical junctures." Watch | Zoom sheds about 1,300 jobs globally However, as per a regulatory filing, the former Google executive's contract has been abruptly terminated "without cause". Zoom, the video conferencing software giant, witnessed a boom during the COVID-19 pandemic days. At the height of the pandemic, the company emerged as one of the biggest technology winners. With everything from meetings to classes, to weddings and even funerals shifting online, by April 2020, the company reported a whopping 300 million daily participants. Also read | Zoom video struggles to thrive in post-pandemic world, announces 15 % staff layoff However, post-pandemic, Zoom, like fellow tech companies, was unable to maintain its pandemic boom and was forced to lay off staff. The company which during the two years of the pandemic tripled its headcount in February of this year fired 15 per cent or 1300 people from its staff. As per Yuan, they "didn't take as much time as we should have to thoroughly analyse our teams or assess if we were growing sustainably, toward the highest priorities." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Video conferencing giant Zoom abruptly sacks company president Greg Tomb 'without cause'

The US Justice Department has alleged that Alphabet Inc's Google has destroyed internal corporate communications, thereby destroying important evidence in the antitrust lawsuit filed against the company by the United States. Lawyers for the department have asked a federal judge to sanction the company as part of the American government's antitrust case over Google's search business. As per a Reuters report, the DOJ on Thursday asserted that Google failed to suspend a policy in a timely manner, allowing for the automatic and permanent deletion of employees' chat logs.

Watch |&nbsp;Why is the US Department of Justice (DoJ) planning to sue Google again?

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It further alleged that, in 2019, the search engine giant "falsely" told the United States that it had suspended "auto-deletion" and was preserving chat communications. The company allegedly said that it was required to do under a federal court rule governing electronically stored information.

The DOJ has asked the federal court to hold a hearing and appropriately sanction the tech giant.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-doj-sues-google-over-online-ad-market-domination-lawsuit-seeks-to-level-the-playing-field-for-other-firms-555761">US DOJ sues Google over online ad market domination; seeks to level the playing field for other firms</a>

"Google's daily destruction of written records prejudiced the United States by depriving it of a rich source of candid discussions between Google's executives, including likely trial witnesses," wrote DOJ attorney Kenneth Dintzer in the filing.

However, Google in its statement said that it "strongly" refuted the US DOJ's allegations.&nbsp;

"Our teams have conscientiously worked for years to respond to inquiries and litigation," said a Google spokesperson.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-justice-department-to-sue-google-for-the-second-time-report-555359">US justice department to sue Google for the second time over market dominance: Report</a>

The company also claimed to have produced "over 4 million documents in this case alone, and millions more to regulators around the world."

If Google is found guilty of a violation of court rules as alleged by the DOJ, penalties can include restrictions on what it is allowed to argue at trial, an order striking a court filing or even a monetary penalty.

This sanctions attempt marks the second time that the US government has sought to punish Google.&nbsp;Last year, the DOJ alleged Google unfairly kept internal documents away from antitrust investigators, claiming they were protected by the attorney-client privilege. Google, at the time, had denied the allegation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US Justice Department has alleged that Alphabet Inc's Google has destroyed internal corporate communications, thereby destroying important evidence in the antitrust lawsuit filed against the company by the United States.

The US Justice Department has alleged that Alphabet Inc's Google has destroyed internal corporate communications, thereby destroying important evidence in the antitrust lawsuit filed against the company by the United States. Lawyers for the department have asked a federal judge to sanction the company as part of the American government's antitrust case over Google's search business. As per a Reuters report, the DOJ on Thursday asserted that Google failed to suspend a policy in a timely manner, allowing for the automatic and permanent deletion of employees' chat logs. Watch | Why is the US Department of Justice (DoJ) planning to sue Google again? It further alleged that, in 2019, the search engine giant "falsely" told the United States that it had suspended "auto-deletion" and was preserving chat communications. The company allegedly said that it was required to do under a federal court rule governing electronically stored information. The DOJ has asked the federal court to hold a hearing and appropriately sanction the tech giant. Also read | US DOJ sues Google over online ad market domination; seeks to level the playing field for other firms "Google's daily destruction of written records prejudiced the United States by depriving it of a rich source of candid discussions between Google's executives, including likely trial witnesses," wrote DOJ attorney Kenneth Dintzer in the filing. However, Google in its statement said that it "strongly" refuted the US DOJ's allegations. "Our teams have conscientiously worked for years to respond to inquiries and litigation," said a Google spokesperson. Also read | US justice department to sue Google for the second time over market dominance: Report The company also claimed to have produced "over 4 million documents in this case alone, and millions more to regulators around the world." If Google is found guilty of a violation of court rules as alleged by the DOJ, penalties can include restrictions on what it is allowed to argue at trial, an order striking a court filing or even a monetary penalty. This sanctions attempt marks the second time that the US government has sought to punish Google. Last year, the DOJ alleged Google unfairly kept internal documents away from antitrust investigators, claiming they were protected by the attorney-client privilege. Google, at the time, had denied the allegation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Justice Department accuses Google of destroying evidence in antitrust case

Australian people conceived through donor sperm or egg may soon have greater access to their genetic history. The Queensland government, as per a Guardian report, has accepted a new set of recommendations in this regard. The recommendations were presented in response to a parliamentary inquiry on the issue and the government has given its in-principal support, the paper reported. Under this, the so-called donor-conceived children, once they attain the age of 18, will legally be provided with the right to know the identity of the donor and their genetic siblings, if any.

For this to work, as per the government, Queensland will have to establish a central donor conception register. This will probably involve developing IT systems and digitising historical records.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: America finally wakes up to TikTok threat

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"Further consideration is required regarding the implementation, funding and resourcing implications to establish and maintain a register," said the government."

Currently, Queensland does not have legislation to regulate donor conception practices, assisted reproductive technology services, or access to donor conception information.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-us-overreacting-by-banning-tiktok-on-federal-devices-566857">China says US 'overreacting' by banning TikTok on federal devices</a>

As per Shannon Fentiman, the state's attorney general, this access will enhance people's well-being and allow them to manage their health more appropriately.

"Conception using donated sperm, eggs or embryos has given countless Queensland couples and individuals the precious gift of starting or extending a family," she said.

"We must not lose sight of the unique needs of those who have been conceived through this process."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-on-way-to-become-the-most-evasive-president-in-us-history-report-566880">Joe Biden on his way to becoming the most evasive president in US history: Report</a>

The changes, as per Donor Conceived Australia’s national director, Aimee Shackleton, are a result of 30 years of advocacy.

"Queensland donor-conceived people have the same rights to their medical and family history as any other Australian, including the option for facilitated contact with donors and siblings, with the consent of both parties," Shackleton said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Australian people conceived through donor sperm or egg may soon have greater access to their genetic history. The Queensland government, as per a Guardian report, has accepted a new set of recommendations in this regard.

Australian people conceived through donor sperm or egg may soon have greater access to their genetic history. The Queensland government, as per a Guardian report, has accepted a new set of recommendations in this regard. The recommendations were presented in response to a parliamentary inquiry on the issue and the government has given its in-principal support, the paper reported. Under this, the so-called donor-conceived children, once they attain the age of 18, will legally be provided with the right to know the identity of the donor and their genetic siblings, if any. For this to work, as per the government, Queensland will have to establish a central donor conception register. This will probably involve developing IT systems and digitising historical records. Watch | Gravitas: America finally wakes up to TikTok threat "Further consideration is required regarding the implementation, funding and resourcing implications to establish and maintain a register," said the government." Currently, Queensland does not have legislation to regulate donor conception practices, assisted reproductive technology services, or access to donor conception information. Also read | China says US 'overreacting' by banning TikTok on federal devices As per Shannon Fentiman, the state's attorney general, this access will enhance people's well-being and allow them to manage their health more appropriately. "Conception using donated sperm, eggs or embryos has given countless Queensland couples and individuals the precious gift of starting or extending a family," she said. "We must not lose sight of the unique needs of those who have been conceived through this process." Also read | Joe Biden on his way to becoming the most evasive president in US history: Report The changes, as per Donor Conceived Australia’s national director, Aimee Shackleton, are a result of 30 years of advocacy. "Queensland donor-conceived people have the same rights to their medical and family history as any other Australian, including the option for facilitated contact with donors and siblings, with the consent of both parties," Shackleton said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Queensland to allow children born of donated sperm or eggs to know their genetic history

As the toll from Italy's boat wreck keeps on climbing, a horrible detail of the tragedy has come to the fore. The people smugglers responsible for the "voyage of death" threw kids into the sea to lighten the boat's weight, reports claimed. These claims have been made by survivors of the tragedy that took place on Sunday. The incident, as per Afghanistan's Taliban-led foreign ministry, has claimed the lives of 80 of the 170 passengers. 14 of the victims are reportedly children. However, as per the local Italian provincial government, the toll stands at 65. The number is expected to rise. The boat was smuggling migrants from Turkey to Italy at a hefty sum of €8,000 (£7,000) per passenger, as per Italian Police.

Watch |&nbsp;Italy Boat Tragedy: 63 bodies found, 36 still missing

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Police have arrested three smugglers - a Turkish national and two Pakistani nationals, Reuters reported. Another Turkish suspect, as per an ITV report, is suspected to have died in the tragedy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-over-30-dead-after-migrant-boat-sinks-off-coastal-city-of-crotone-566077">Italy: 59 dead as overloaded boat ferrying migrants breaks apart, sinks off coastal city of Crotone</a>

Survivors claim that as the boat began to sink near the coastal town of Crotone in Calabria, the smugglers began to throw migrants, including children, overboard into the sea to help lighten the vessel's weight.

Talking to Italy's La Stampa newspaper, one survivor said that the traffickers, "started to throw kids out, they grabbed them by the arm and threw them in the sea."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-migrant-shipwreck-death-toll-likely-to-be-over-100-reports-suggest-566781">Italy: 59 dead as overloaded boat ferrying migrants breaks apart, sinks off coastal city of Crotone</a>

"According to initial investigations, they allegedly asked the migrants for about 8,000 euros ($8,485) each for the deadly journey," said the commander of a finance police team in the region of Calabria, Lieutenant Colonel Alberto Lippolis.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the toll from Italy's boat wreck keeps on climbing, a horrible detail of the tragedy has come to the fore. The people smugglers responsible for the "voyage of death" threw kids into the sea to lighten the boat's weight, reports claimed.

As the toll from Italy's boat wreck keeps on climbing, a horrible detail of the tragedy has come to the fore. The people smugglers responsible for the "voyage of death" threw kids into the sea to lighten the boat's weight, reports claimed. These claims have been made by survivors of the tragedy that took place on Sunday. The incident, as per Afghanistan's Taliban-led foreign ministry, has claimed the lives of 80 of the 170 passengers. 14 of the victims are reportedly children. However, as per the local Italian provincial government, the toll stands at 65. The number is expected to rise. The boat was smuggling migrants from Turkey to Italy at a hefty sum of €8,000 (£7,000) per passenger, as per Italian Police. Watch | Italy Boat Tragedy: 63 bodies found, 36 still missing Police have arrested three smugglers - a Turkish national and two Pakistani nationals, Reuters reported. Another Turkish suspect, as per an ITV report, is suspected to have died in the tragedy. Also read | Italy: 59 dead as overloaded boat ferrying migrants breaks apart, sinks off coastal city of Crotone Survivors claim that as the boat began to sink near the coastal town of Crotone in Calabria, the smugglers began to throw migrants, including children, overboard into the sea to help lighten the vessel's weight. Talking to Italy's La Stampa newspaper, one survivor said that the traffickers, "started to throw kids out, they grabbed them by the arm and threw them in the sea." Also read | Italy: 59 dead as overloaded boat ferrying migrants breaks apart, sinks off coastal city of Crotone "According to initial investigations, they allegedly asked the migrants for about 8,000 euros ($8,485) each for the deadly journey," said the commander of a finance police team in the region of Calabria, Lieutenant Colonel Alberto Lippolis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Italy boat tragedy gets murkier: Smugglers 'threw kids into sea' to lighten vessel's load

February 10&nbsp;marked the second anniversary of China's ambitious Tianwen 1 mission — which also happens to be the nation's first interplanetary mission. Amid the celebration, one voice remained silent, that of China's Zhurong Mars rover, which was sent to the surface of the red planet as part of Beijing's Tianwen 1 mission. The Chinese rover has been in "hibernation" for months. It was supposed to wake up back in December of last year. However, almost two months later, its slumber still continues. Last month, a report expressed hope that Zhurong would come out of its sleep, but recent images from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter show that it hasn't changed its position for five months.

Watch |&nbsp;This study suggests ancient Mars was also hit by climate change

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As per NASA, the rover hasn't moved since September 2022. The space agency's office at the University of Arizona which manages the HiRISE camera released a series of images, which show that Zhurong has not changed its position between September 8, 2022 and February 7,&nbsp;2023.

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HiPOD: Monitoring the Zhurong Rover 
 
The Chinese Zhurong rover has been on Mars since 14 May 2021, and MRO/HiRISE has imaged it several times to track its progress and monitor the surface for changes. 
 
For full cutout: <a href="https://t.co/WKCpyrbqI9">https://t.co/WKCpyrbqI9</a> 
 
NASA/JPL-Caltech/UArizona<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mars</a> <a href="https://t.co/EzER3I5Q4Y">pic.twitter.com/EzER3I5Q4Y</a>
— HiRISE: Beautiful Mars (NASA) (@HiRISE) <a href="https://twitter.com/HiRISE/status/1628032187181281283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-zhurongs-slumber-continues-for-months-has-chinas-mars-rover-fallen-silent-forever-554018">Explained | Zhurong's slumber continues for months. Has China's Mars rover fallen 'silent' forever?</a>

The rover entered its hibernation mode way back on May 18,&nbsp;2022, to survive barren Mars' harsh winter months. During winter on the red planet, temperatures can fall down to minus 195 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 125 degrees Celsius).

As per Jia Yang, Tianwen 1 mission deputy chief designer, the rover would wake up when two conditions are met: it can generate energy greater than 140 watts and the planet’s temperature, or rather the region where the rover is, reaches the somewhat warmer, 5 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/men-are-from-mars-women-are-from-venus-which-one-should-humans-visit-first-520603">'Men are from Mars, women are from Venus', which planet should humans visit first?</a>

However, it is possible that due to Mars' sand storms, Zhurong which uses solar arrays for energy might be unable to do so. Dust may be hindering the rover's arrays. Even if it never wakes up, the rover has already achieved significant things; it successfully completed one year of operations, for which it was also presented with the International Astronautical Federation's annual space achievement award in September 2022.

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February 10 marked the second anniversary of China's ambitious Tianwen 1 mission — which also happens to be the nation's first interplanetary mission. Amid the celebration, one voice remained silent, that of China's Zhurong Mars rover, which was sent to the surface of the red planet as part of Beijing's Tianwen 1 mission.

February 10 marked the second anniversary of China's ambitious Tianwen 1 mission — which also happens to be the nation's first interplanetary mission. Amid the celebration, one voice remained silent, that of China's Zhurong Mars rover, which was sent to the surface of the red planet as part of Beijing's Tianwen 1 mission. The Chinese rover has been in "hibernation" for months. It was supposed to wake up back in December of last year. However, almost two months later, its slumber still continues. Last month, a report expressed hope that Zhurong would come out of its sleep, but recent images from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter show that it hasn't changed its position for five months. Watch | This study suggests ancient Mars was also hit by climate change As per NASA, the rover hasn't moved since September 2022. The space agency's office at the University of Arizona which manages the HiRISE camera released a series of images, which show that Zhurong has not changed its position between September 8, 2022 and February 7, 2023. HiPOD: Monitoring the Zhurong Rover The Chinese Zhurong rover has been on Mars since 14 May 2021, and MRO/HiRISE has imaged it several times to track its progress and monitor the surface for changes. For full cutout: https://t.co/WKCpyrbqI9 NASA/JPL-Caltech/UArizona#Mars pic.twitter.com/EzER3I5Q4Y — HiRISE: Beautiful Mars (NASA) (@HiRISE) February 21, 2023 × Also read | Explained | Zhurong's slumber continues for months. Has China's Mars rover fallen 'silent' forever? The rover entered its hibernation mode way back on May 18, 2022, to survive barren Mars' harsh winter months. During winter on the red planet, temperatures can fall down to minus 195 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 125 degrees Celsius). As per Jia Yang, Tianwen 1 mission deputy chief designer, the rover would wake up when two conditions are met: it can generate energy greater than 140 watts and the planet’s temperature, or rather the region where the rover is, reaches the somewhat warmer, 5 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius). Also read | 'Men are from Mars, women are from Venus', which planet should humans visit first? However, it is possible that due to Mars' sand storms, Zhurong which uses solar arrays for energy might be unable to do so. Dust may be hindering the rover's arrays. Even if it never wakes up, the rover has already achieved significant things; it successfully completed one year of operations, for which it was also presented with the International Astronautical Federation's annual space achievement award in September 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Five months and counting...NASA images show China's Mars rover 'Zhurong' hasn't moved

On Wednesday, North Korea's official newspaper said that relying on external aid to cope with food shortages equals taking "poisoned candy". Amid deepening hardships stemming from international sanctions and supply shortages thanks to coronavirus restrictions, ruling Workers' Party paper Rodong Sinmun urged for a model of self-reliance. In recent years, Pyongyang has suffered from a food shortage. Natural disasters like typhoons and floods, along with international sanctions imposed on the nation due to its nuclear and missile programmes, and a sharp decrease in North Korea's trade with China amid the coronavirus lockdown and the following pandemic restrictions have all added to the nation's troubles.

Watch |&nbsp;North Korean food shortage seems to be worsening, South Korea says

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The state paper, as per Reuters, warned against availing economic aid from "imperialists" and said that they use the help as a "trap to plunder and subjugate" recipient countries and interfere with their internal politics.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-north-korea-grapples-with-food-crisis-flour-now-a-luxury-item-report-492992">As North Korea grapples with food crisis, flour now a luxury item: Report</a>

"It is a mistake to try to boost the economy by accepting and eating this poisoned candy," it added.

The article comes at a time when, as per reports, over the past two years, around 700 inmates at three countryside prisons in North Korea's Kaechon have died from diseases and famine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millions-at-nuclear-radiation-risk-in-north-korea-and-neighbouring-countries-suggests-latest-us-backed-study-564189">Millions at nuclear radiation risk in North Korea and neighbouring countries, suggests latest US-backed study</a>

Neighbour South Korea's unification ministry, as per Reuters, declined to comment on the report but said that in recent days there has been an increase in deaths due to starvation in some North Korean provinces.&nbsp;As per South Korean estimates, last year North Korea's crop production at approximately 4.5 million tonnes dropped around 3.8 per cent in comparison to 2021.

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On Wednesday, North Korea's official newspaper said that relying on external aid to cope with food shortages equals taking "poisoned candy". Amid deepening hardships stemming from international sanctions and supply shortages thanks to coronavirus restrictions, ruling Workers' Party paper Rodong Sinmun urged for a model of self-reliance.

On Wednesday, North Korea's official newspaper said that relying on external aid to cope with food shortages equals taking "poisoned candy". Amid deepening hardships stemming from international sanctions and supply shortages thanks to coronavirus restrictions, ruling Workers' Party paper Rodong Sinmun urged for a model of self-reliance. In recent years, Pyongyang has suffered from a food shortage. Natural disasters like typhoons and floods, along with international sanctions imposed on the nation due to its nuclear and missile programmes, and a sharp decrease in North Korea's trade with China amid the coronavirus lockdown and the following pandemic restrictions have all added to the nation's troubles. Watch | North Korean food shortage seems to be worsening, South Korea says The state paper, as per Reuters, warned against availing economic aid from "imperialists" and said that they use the help as a "trap to plunder and subjugate" recipient countries and interfere with their internal politics. Watch | As North Korea grapples with food crisis, flour now a luxury item: Report "It is a mistake to try to boost the economy by accepting and eating this poisoned candy," it added. The article comes at a time when, as per reports, over the past two years, around 700 inmates at three countryside prisons in North Korea's Kaechon have died from diseases and famine. Also read | Millions at nuclear radiation risk in North Korea and neighbouring countries, suggests latest US-backed study Neighbour South Korea's unification ministry, as per Reuters, declined to comment on the report but said that in recent days there has been an increase in deaths due to starvation in some North Korean provinces. As per South Korean estimates, last year North Korea's crop production at approximately 4.5 million tonnes dropped around 3.8 per cent in comparison to 2021. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Even as the nation reels from hunger, North Korean state paper calls outside aid 'poisoned candy'

Animal lovers in the southern Turkish city of Diyarbakir are protesting the demolition of a building. The building, as per an AFP report, is believed to contain several animals and the protestors are pushing for the removal of the stuck animals before the building is demolished for reconstruction. The series of quakes in Turkey&nbsp;and&nbsp;Syria has claimed more than 45,000 lives and has battered huge amounts of infrastructure, many of which are now being cleared to make way for reconstruction. Talking to AFP, Nilay Yilmaz, one of the protestors said "We only had one request: we said 'let us at least go in'... They didn't let us do that either."

The protestors have reportedly been told that the "building would collapse if a crane touched it." However, Yilmaz says that "since 8:00 am they've been cutting at it with that machinery, but the building is still standing."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Turkey-Syria border hit by another earthquake

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"Whoever ordered the demolition is the one who killed those animals...," he added.

Ramazan Tugay, another protestor, claims that the building contains more than a dozen cats, dogs and birds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-bans-layoffs-provides-salary-support-to-employees-in-quake-hit-regions-564747">Turkey bans layoffs, provides salary support to employees in quake-hit regions</a>

"What kind of a Muslim country are we?" asked one protester. "These are living beings too, they can take them out as well," he added.

Turkey's Bar Association has also called on the state to rescue the stuck animals.&nbsp;

"While we were waiting for these animals to be rescued, demolition work started in the building, even though it was known that there were live animals inside."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/miracle-baby-aya-born-under-turkey-quake-rubble-adopted-by-her-aunt-uncle-564352">Miracle baby 'Aya', born under Turkey quake rubble, adopted by her aunt, uncle</a>

"These animals, which were not killed by the earthquake and not killed by hunger and thirst for 16 days, started to be killed by human hands...all living things have an equal right to life," it said.

After protestors gathered around the building in question, Police cordoned it off. Citing an anonymous source, AFP reports that the police will attempt to lure the animals out during overnight hours, however, the demolition will resume on Thursday irrespective of the animals' presence inside the building.

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Animal lovers in the southern Turkish city of Diyarbakir are protesting the demolition of a building. The building, as per an AFP report, is believed to contain several animals and the protestors are pushing for the removal of the stuck animals before the building is demolished for reconstruction.

Animal lovers in the southern Turkish city of Diyarbakir are protesting the demolition of a building. The building, as per an AFP report, is believed to contain several animals and the protestors are pushing for the removal of the stuck animals before the building is demolished for reconstruction. The series of quakes in Turkey and Syria has claimed more than 45,000 lives and has battered huge amounts of infrastructure, many of which are now being cleared to make way for reconstruction. Talking to AFP, Nilay Yilmaz, one of the protestors said "We only had one request: we said 'let us at least go in'... They didn't let us do that either." The protestors have reportedly been told that the "building would collapse if a crane touched it." However, Yilmaz says that "since 8:00 am they've been cutting at it with that machinery, but the building is still standing." Watch | Gravitas: Turkey-Syria border hit by another earthquake "Whoever ordered the demolition is the one who killed those animals...," he added. Ramazan Tugay, another protestor, claims that the building contains more than a dozen cats, dogs and birds. Also read | Turkey bans layoffs, provides salary support to employees in quake-hit regions "What kind of a Muslim country are we?" asked one protester. "These are living beings too, they can take them out as well," he added. Turkey's Bar Association has also called on the state to rescue the stuck animals. "While we were waiting for these animals to be rescued, demolition work started in the building, even though it was known that there were live animals inside." Also read | Miracle baby 'Aya', born under Turkey quake rubble, adopted by her aunt, uncle "These animals, which were not killed by the earthquake and not killed by hunger and thirst for 16 days, started to be killed by human hands...all living things have an equal right to life," it said. After protestors gathered around the building in question, Police cordoned it off. Citing an anonymous source, AFP reports that the police will attempt to lure the animals out during overnight hours, however, the demolition will resume on Thursday irrespective of the animals' presence inside the building. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dozens of animals survive earthquakes, hunger and thirst for 16 days only to be 'to be killed by human hands'

Demography in China is undergoing a major shift, with the number of births declining and the population ageing rapidly. The latest data from the nation's Henan province shows the extent of the challenge faced by Beijing. For the first time since 1961, the province has recorded more deaths than it had births. As per the latest figures, Henan recorded 8,000 more deaths than births; this as per the South China Morning Post is the province's first population decline in around six decades. In 2022, the province also saw an overall population decline of around 110,000 people.

The population decline is mainly because of a massive outflow of workers and is less compared to 2021's overall population decline of 580,000.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: China's demographic disaster: Is this the end of China's dream?

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As per Henan's Bureau of Statistics, various factors have contributed to the province's population decline.

In a statement on Monday, the bureau said it was "affected by various factors such as the continuous decrease of women of childbearing age, changes in beliefs, delayed marriage and childbirth, population outflow and population ageing."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-provinces-give-30-days-paid-marriage-leave-to-newly-weds-to-control-tumbling-birth-rate-564412">Chinese provinces give 30 days paid marriage leave to newly weds to control tumbling birth rate</a>

The bureau further said that "the number of births (in Henan province) continued to decrease in 2022, and the number of deaths have increased."

Henan's population is ageing rapidly. As per official data, in 2022, the number of people over 60 years of age in comparison to 2021 rose by around 790,000.&nbsp;People aged 60 years and older account for 18.9 per cent of Henan's population; this figure stands at 19.8 per cent for China overall.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-sichuan-province-allows-unmarried-people-to-legally-have-children-557291">China's Sichuan province allows unmarried people to legally have children</a>

The number of births in China is decreasing. Last year, the nation saw its lowest birth rate in modern history with 9.56 million babies born. This was the first time China's birth rate fell below 10 million.

In comparison, deaths outnumbered births. The nation's overall population also fell to 1.4118 billion in 2022. This number stood at 1.4126 just a year earlier in 2021.&nbsp;To deal with the population plummet, Beijing has introduced a variety of pronatalist measures, including maternity and paternity leaves, cash rewards, etc.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Demography in China is undergoing a major shift, with the number of births declining and the population ageing rapidly. The latest data from the nation's Henan province shows the extent of the challenge faced by Beijing.

Demography in China is undergoing a major shift, with the number of births declining and the population ageing rapidly. The latest data from the nation's Henan province shows the extent of the challenge faced by Beijing. For the first time since 1961, the province has recorded more deaths than it had births. As per the latest figures, Henan recorded 8,000 more deaths than births; this as per the South China Morning Post is the province's first population decline in around six decades. In 2022, the province also saw an overall population decline of around 110,000 people. The population decline is mainly because of a massive outflow of workers and is less compared to 2021's overall population decline of 580,000. Watch | Gravitas: China's demographic disaster: Is this the end of China's dream? As per Henan's Bureau of Statistics, various factors have contributed to the province's population decline. In a statement on Monday, the bureau said it was "affected by various factors such as the continuous decrease of women of childbearing age, changes in beliefs, delayed marriage and childbirth, population outflow and population ageing." Also read | Chinese provinces give 30 days paid marriage leave to newly weds to control tumbling birth rate The bureau further said that "the number of births (in Henan province) continued to decrease in 2022, and the number of deaths have increased." Henan's population is ageing rapidly. As per official data, in 2022, the number of people over 60 years of age in comparison to 2021 rose by around 790,000. People aged 60 years and older account for 18.9 per cent of Henan's population; this figure stands at 19.8 per cent for China overall. Also read | China's Sichuan province allows unmarried people to legally have children The number of births in China is decreasing. Last year, the nation saw its lowest birth rate in modern history with 9.56 million babies born. This was the first time China's birth rate fell below 10 million. In comparison, deaths outnumbered births. The nation's overall population also fell to 1.4118 billion in 2022. This number stood at 1.4126 just a year earlier in 2021. To deal with the population plummet, Beijing has introduced a variety of pronatalist measures, including maternity and paternity leaves, cash rewards, etc. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Data from China's Henan shows extent of population decline; records 8,000 more deaths than births

On Sunday, Meta announced that it would be launching a paid subscription service, which will cost $11.99 for the web or $14.99 for mobile. Now, critics have raised deep concerns about the way the social media giant has chosen to structure its new offering. Experts say that the new service will create a "digital caste system" of haves and have-nots. The paid service will make available to its subscribers a verification badge, extra protection against impersonation, direct access to customer support and added visibility. Users too have ridiculed the service, trolling Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg with trolls and memes.

"Safety and security features must NOT be up for sale," says online safety expert Kavya Pearlman.

Watch |&nbsp;Meta introduces a monthly subscription model

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AFP reports that Pearlman was unimpressed with the idea of paying for protection. She claims that it would create a "digital caste system" of haves and have-nots.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, she questioned why users who provide their data to the company and the "human who actually acts within T&amp;S while on the platform" has to pay "and not the one who impersonates me or one who takes my data".

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So let me get this straight, I am the human who provide MY data to a company &amp; also the human who actually acts within T&amp;S while on the platform but I AM the who has to pay and not the one who impersonates me or one who takes my data or <a href="https://twitter.com/facebook?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@facebook</a> using MY data 4 targeted ads 🤌🤌 <a href="https://t.co/Oj2T6JXEay">pic.twitter.com/Oj2T6JXEay</a>
— Kavya Pearlman (@KavyaPearlman) <a href="https://twitter.com/KavyaPearlman/status/1627506165847592963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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A lobby group called the 'Real Facebook Oversight Board', which is highly critical of Meta, tweeted, "now Facebook wants you to fund the harmful model that fuels its whole business."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/facebook-parent-company-meta-to-launch-paid-subscription-service-563726">Meta to launch its blue verified subscription service for Insta and Facebook</a>

Sinan Aral, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) who has conducted an analysis of the effects that account labelling has on online behaviours, says that subscription services like Twitter Blue or Meta Verified will create a divide between "in groups and out groups".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/a-hair-raising-journey-into-space-us-long-dead-presidents-to-be-sent-to-outer-space-564042">Hair now, gone to space tomorrow: Long-dead ex-US presidents' locks&nbsp;to&nbsp;be&nbsp;beamed&nbsp;up</a>

The new Meta service will first be rolled out in Australia and New Zealand. While users trolled Zukerberg for copying Twitter CEO Elon Musk, Matt Navarra, a social media consultant suggests that the launch is a "bit unplanned and last minute." Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities says the move is "risky" and that "there could be clear backlash from consumers that will never pay a dime for Facebook or Instagram and this move could push them out the door."

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Sunday, Meta announced that it would be launching a paid subscription service, which will cost $11.99 for the web or $14.99 for mobile. Now, critics have raised deep concerns about the way the social media giant has chosen to structure its new offering.

On Sunday, Meta announced that it would be launching a paid subscription service, which will cost $11.99 for the web or $14.99 for mobile. Now, critics have raised deep concerns about the way the social media giant has chosen to structure its new offering. Experts say that the new service will create a "digital caste system" of haves and have-nots. The paid service will make available to its subscribers a verification badge, extra protection against impersonation, direct access to customer support and added visibility. Users too have ridiculed the service, trolling Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg with trolls and memes. "Safety and security features must NOT be up for sale," says online safety expert Kavya Pearlman. Watch | Meta introduces a monthly subscription model AFP reports that Pearlman was unimpressed with the idea of paying for protection. She claims that it would create a "digital caste system" of haves and have-nots. Taking to Twitter, she questioned why users who provide their data to the company and the "human who actually acts within T&S while on the platform" has to pay "and not the one who impersonates me or one who takes my data". So let me get this straight, I am the human who provide MY data to a company & also the human who actually acts within T&S while on the platform but I AM the who has to pay and not the one who impersonates me or one who takes my data or @facebook using MY data 4 targeted ads 🤌🤌 pic.twitter.com/Oj2T6JXEay — Kavya Pearlman (@KavyaPearlman) February 20, 2023 × A lobby group called the 'Real Facebook Oversight Board', which is highly critical of Meta, tweeted, "now Facebook wants you to fund the harmful model that fuels its whole business." Also read | Meta to launch its blue verified subscription service for Insta and Facebook Sinan Aral, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) who has conducted an analysis of the effects that account labelling has on online behaviours, says that subscription services like Twitter Blue or Meta Verified will create a divide between "in groups and out groups". Also read | Hair now, gone to space tomorrow: Long-dead ex-US presidents' locks to be beamed up The new Meta service will first be rolled out in Australia and New Zealand. While users trolled Zukerberg for copying Twitter CEO Elon Musk, Matt Navarra, a social media consultant suggests that the launch is a "bit unplanned and last minute." Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities says the move is "risky" and that "there could be clear backlash from consumers that will never pay a dime for Facebook or Instagram and this move could push them out the door." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Will Meta's new paid subscription divide users into 'haves and have-nots'? Experts think so

Scientists have successfully cured a third person of HIV. The man codenamed "the Duesseldorf patient" was cured of the life-threatening disease after receiving a stem cell transplant, which also treated his leukaemia. Previously, two other patients have been cured following the high-risk procedure. The patients in Berlin and London were also suffering from the two diseases.&nbsp;

Details of the latest success story, a.k.a., the Duesseldorf patient, have been revealed in the journal Nature Medicine.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India doing well in fight against AIDS

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While the patient's name was not released, the study revealed that he is 53 years old and was diagnosed with HIV in 2008. Three years later, he was then diagnosed with a life-threatening form of blood cancer called acute myeloid leukaemia.

As per the study, "this third case of HIV-1 cure" provides "valuable insights that will hopefully guide future cure strategies".

In 2013, the Duesseldorf patient underwent a bone marrow transplant using stem cells from a female donor that had a rare mutation in her CCR5 gene. As per AFP, this gene mutation has been found to stop HIV from entering cells.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hiv-and-aids-is-not-the-same-thing-do-you-know-the-difference-between-the-two-539188">HIV and AIDS is not the same thing. Do you know difference between the two?</a>

The patient celebrated the 10-year anniversary of the transplant on Valentine's day, where the donor was the "guest of honour".

In a statement, he said that he was proud of his " worldwide team of doctors who succeeded in curing me of HIV — and at the same time, of course, of leukaemia".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-aids-day-2022-celebrities-who-battled-hivaids-539095">World AIDS Day: Celebrities who battled HIV/AIDS - Billy Porter, Freddie Mercury</a>

The bone marrow transplant used in this case is a severe and dangerous operation. Hence, it is only suitable for some special cases or a small number of patients suffering from HIV and blood cancer. Another challenge in this treatment is locating a bone marrow donor with the&nbsp;rare gene mutation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Scientists have successfully cured a third person of HIV. The man codenamed "the Duesseldorf patient" was cured of the life-threatening disease after receiving a stem cell transplant, which also treated his leukaemia.

Scientists have successfully cured a third person of HIV. The man codenamed "the Duesseldorf patient" was cured of the life-threatening disease after receiving a stem cell transplant, which also treated his leukaemia. Previously, two other patients have been cured following the high-risk procedure. The patients in Berlin and London were also suffering from the two diseases. Details of the latest success story, a.k.a., the Duesseldorf patient, have been revealed in the journal Nature Medicine. Watch | Gravitas: India doing well in fight against AIDS While the patient's name was not released, the study revealed that he is 53 years old and was diagnosed with HIV in 2008. Three years later, he was then diagnosed with a life-threatening form of blood cancer called acute myeloid leukaemia. As per the study, "this third case of HIV-1 cure" provides "valuable insights that will hopefully guide future cure strategies". In 2013, the Duesseldorf patient underwent a bone marrow transplant using stem cells from a female donor that had a rare mutation in her CCR5 gene. As per AFP, this gene mutation has been found to stop HIV from entering cells. Also read | HIV and AIDS is not the same thing. Do you know difference between the two? The patient celebrated the 10-year anniversary of the transplant on Valentine's day, where the donor was the "guest of honour". In a statement, he said that he was proud of his " worldwide team of doctors who succeeded in curing me of HIV — and at the same time, of course, of leukaemia". Also read | World AIDS Day: Celebrities who battled HIV/AIDS - Billy Porter, Freddie Mercury The bone marrow transplant used in this case is a severe and dangerous operation. Hence, it is only suitable for some special cases or a small number of patients suffering from HIV and blood cancer. Another challenge in this treatment is locating a bone marrow donor with the rare gene mutation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Duesseldorf patient cured of HIV; third person in four decades to recover from the disease

In the Indian capital Delhi, another brutal case of a man murdering his live-in partner has come to the light.&nbsp;This&nbsp;case has once again reminded the country of the notorious Shraddha Walker case, which shocked India just a couple of months back.&nbsp;Sahil Gehlot, who is a resident of Haryana's Jhajjar, has been accused of murdering his live-in partner Nikki Yadav and stuffing her body in the refrigerator of a Dhaba (a roadside eatery) he owns. What adds to the shock value of this case is the fact that after murdering his girlfriend, the man married another woman the same day. A magistrate has now sent Gehlot to five days of police custody. Meanwhile, authorities will hold an investigation, collect evidence and question the accused.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/delhi-crimes-gruesome-cases-that-shocked-the-indian-national-capital-534837">'Delhi crimes': Gruesome cases that shocked the Indian national capital</a>

As per an IANS report, Gehlot murdered Yadav around the Kashmiri Gate bus stand area and then drove her body some 36 kilometres to his eatery, which is located on the outskirts of Delhi's Mitraon village.

The police reportedly on February 10th got a tip-off that a man by the name of Sahil Gehlot has killed his girlfriend, before marrying another on the day of the murder.

As per Special Commissioner of Police, Crime, Ravindra Singh Yadav, when a police team reached Mitraon village, Gehlot was nowhere to be found. In addition, his phone was switched off.&nbsp;However, they managed to nab him at the Kair village crossing.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-makes-big-breakthrough-in-shraddha-murder-case-dna-samples-unravel-mystery-543358">Delhi Police make big BREAKTHROUGH in Shraddha Murder Case, DNA samples unravel mystery</a>

Initially, Gehlot pleaded innocence but later confessed to the murder.

"On interrogation, initially, the accused tried to mislead the police. But on sustained interrogation, he disclosed that he had killed his girlfriend, Nikki Yadav, in the intervening night of February 9 and 10 and stuffed her body in a refrigerator at his dhaba in a vacant plot situated on the outskirts of village Mitraon," said the special commissioner.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the Indian capital Delhi, another brutal case of a man murdering his live-in partner has come to the light. This case has once again reminded the country of the notorious Shraddha Walker case, which shocked India just a couple of months back.

In the Indian capital Delhi, another brutal case of a man murdering his live-in partner has come to the light. This case has once again reminded the country of the notorious Shraddha Walker case, which shocked India just a couple of months back. Sahil Gehlot, who is a resident of Haryana's Jhajjar, has been accused of murdering his live-in partner Nikki Yadav and stuffing her body in the refrigerator of a Dhaba (a roadside eatery) he owns. What adds to the shock value of this case is the fact that after murdering his girlfriend, the man married another woman the same day. A magistrate has now sent Gehlot to five days of police custody. Meanwhile, authorities will hold an investigation, collect evidence and question the accused. Also read | 'Delhi crimes': Gruesome cases that shocked the Indian national capital As per an IANS report, Gehlot murdered Yadav around the Kashmiri Gate bus stand area and then drove her body some 36 kilometres to his eatery, which is located on the outskirts of Delhi's Mitraon village. The police reportedly on February 10th got a tip-off that a man by the name of Sahil Gehlot has killed his girlfriend, before marrying another on the day of the murder. As per Special Commissioner of Police, Crime, Ravindra Singh Yadav, when a police team reached Mitraon village, Gehlot was nowhere to be found. In addition, his phone was switched off. However, they managed to nab him at the Kair village crossing. Also read | Delhi Police make big BREAKTHROUGH in Shraddha Murder Case, DNA samples unravel mystery Initially, Gehlot pleaded innocence but later confessed to the murder. "On interrogation, initially, the accused tried to mislead the police. But on sustained interrogation, he disclosed that he had killed his girlfriend, Nikki Yadav, in the intervening night of February 9 and 10 and stuffed her body in a refrigerator at his dhaba in a vacant plot situated on the outskirts of village Mitraon," said the special commissioner. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

After Shraddha Walker murder case, another brutal killing shocks the Indian capital Delhi

Tamil nationalist leader Pazha Nedumaran on Monday claimed that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief Velupillai Prabhakaran is alive and will appear in public 'at the right time'. The claim has invited ridicule and has been vehemently slammed by the Sri Lankan media.

Prabhakaran, as per reports, died more than a decade ago. He was killed by the Sri Lankan Army during the last phase of the civil war. His body was even identified by Karuna Amman, LTTE's former leader. A picture of his body was also released back then.&nbsp;

Nedumaran, however, claims that not only is the LTTE chief alive but will also appear in public. He claimed that the former LTTE chief's family was also in touch with him and that he was sharing the news about Prabhakaran's survival with their permission.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-support-helped-overcome-debt-trap-says-sri-lankan-president-ranil-wickremesinghe-560999">Indian support helped overcome debt trap, says Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe</a>

"Sri Lanka has not released any official records of Prabhakaran's death. Only one photograph was released. The whereabouts of his wife Mathivathani Erambu and daughter Duvaraga are yet to be revealed," he said.

Here's a video of his speech:

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Tamil nationalist movement leader <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PazhaNedumaran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PazhaNedumaran</a> claims on Monday, 13 February that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LTTE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LTTE</a> leader <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VelupillaiPrabhakaran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VelupillaiPrabhakaran</a> is alive and well. It was believed that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Prabhakaran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Prabhakaran</a> was slain by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLankan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLankan</a> forces in May 2009, when photos of his body were released. <a href="https://t.co/OaRlnLLw6h">pic.twitter.com/OaRlnLLw6h</a>
— Hate Detector 🔍 (@HateDetectors) <a href="https://twitter.com/HateDetectors/status/1625088543524794368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As per Deccan Herald, in a press conference on Monday, Nedumaran called his declaration a "true announcement". He said that the current conditions are ideal for Prabhakaran to emerge. According to him, the international political atmosphere and the Sinhalese people's opposition to the Rajapaksa clan have contributed to this.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ousted-sri-lankan-president-rajapaksa-investigated-over-cash-stash-police-say-560175">Ousted Sri Lankan president Rajapaksa investigated over cash stash, police say</a>

The Sri Lankan Army, however, has denied this claim. Talking to ABP, Sri Lanka Director Media and Army Spokesman Brigadier Ravi Herath said that his country has records, including "DNA certificates" to prove that Prabhakaran is in fact dead.

He added that while Sri Lanka isn't planning to take any action, there could be a statement from the foreign minister "in the near future".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tamil nationalist leader Pazha Nedumaran on Monday claimed that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief Velupillai Prabhakaran is alive and will appear in public 'at the right time'.

Tamil nationalist leader Pazha Nedumaran on Monday claimed that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief Velupillai Prabhakaran is alive and will appear in public 'at the right time'. The claim has invited ridicule and has been vehemently slammed by the Sri Lankan media. Prabhakaran, as per reports, died more than a decade ago. He was killed by the Sri Lankan Army during the last phase of the civil war. His body was even identified by Karuna Amman, LTTE's former leader. A picture of his body was also released back then. Nedumaran, however, claims that not only is the LTTE chief alive but will also appear in public. He claimed that the former LTTE chief's family was also in touch with him and that he was sharing the news about Prabhakaran's survival with their permission. Also read | Indian support helped overcome debt trap, says Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe "Sri Lanka has not released any official records of Prabhakaran's death. Only one photograph was released. The whereabouts of his wife Mathivathani Erambu and daughter Duvaraga are yet to be revealed," he said. Here's a video of his speech: Tamil nationalist movement leader #PazhaNedumaran claims on Monday, 13 February that #LTTE leader #VelupillaiPrabhakaran is alive and well. It was believed that #Prabhakaran was slain by #SriLankan forces in May 2009, when photos of his body were released. pic.twitter.com/OaRlnLLw6h — Hate Detector 🔍 (@HateDetectors) February 13, 2023 × As per Deccan Herald, in a press conference on Monday, Nedumaran called his declaration a "true announcement". He said that the current conditions are ideal for Prabhakaran to emerge. According to him, the international political atmosphere and the Sinhalese people's opposition to the Rajapaksa clan have contributed to this. Also read | Ousted Sri Lankan president Rajapaksa investigated over cash stash, police say The Sri Lankan Army, however, has denied this claim. Talking to ABP, Sri Lanka Director Media and Army Spokesman Brigadier Ravi Herath said that his country has records, including "DNA certificates" to prove that Prabhakaran is in fact dead. He added that while Sri Lanka isn't planning to take any action, there could be a statement from the foreign minister "in the near future". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka Army dismisses claim of Tamil politician that LTTE ex-chief Velupillai Prabhakaran is still alive

In&nbsp;Syria's Bisina, on Tuesday the whole area echoed with claps and cheers as an entire family was saved from the rubble of a demolished building.&nbsp;Monday's series of massive earthquakes have not only destroyed infrastructure but also families. However, in the midst of that devastation, it is moments like this one that is keeping the spirits of rescuers and civilians alive.

Watch |&nbsp;Earthquake hit Turkiye and Syria both, why is the response different?

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The family,&nbsp;which consisted of a father and&nbsp;his two children&nbsp;— a son and a daughter —&nbsp;had been stuck under the collapsed building for a day or ever since the quake-hit Turkey and Syria. &nbsp;

Video of this heartwarming rescue is going viral on social media. The Syria chapter of a volunteer organisation known as White Helmets has shared it.

Take a look:

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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A true miracle...the sounds of joy embrace the sky... joy beyond belief. 
An entire family was rescued from under the rubble of their house this afternoon, Tuesday, February 7, in the village of Bisnia, west of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Idlib?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Idlib</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Syria?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Syria</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://t.co/Cb7kXLiMjT">pic.twitter.com/Cb7kXLiMjT</a>
— The White Helmets (@SyriaCivilDef) <a href="https://twitter.com/SyriaCivilDef/status/1623054439992139779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cctv-amateur-videos-capture-turkiye-syrias-deadly-earthquake-559287">CCTV, amateur videos capture Turkiye, Syria's deadly&nbsp;earthquake</a>

In the video, you can see not only the civilian bystanders but also the rescue workers erupt in wild celebrations as the family is pulled from under the rubble, one after the other.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/miracle-amid-devastation-baby-born-under-rubble-rescued-after-syria-turkey-earthquake-watch-559637">'Miracle amid devastation': Baby born under rubble; rescued after Syria, Turkey earthquake. Watch!</a>

The massive tremors have caused widespread damage in the two countries. As per the last figures made reported by AFP, the death toll has crossed 11,700. However, many are still trapped under the rubble of buildings&nbsp;and housing complexes that were flattened by this quake.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday warned that the figure would&nbsp;only move upwards and may reach 20,000. As per the organisation, around 23 million people, including 1.4 million children, could be affected by the tremors.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Syria's Bisina, on Tuesday the whole area echoed with claps and cheers as an entire family was saved from the rubble of a demolished building. Monday's series of massive earthquakes have not only destroyed infrastructure but also families.

In Syria's Bisina, on Tuesday the whole area echoed with claps and cheers as an entire family was saved from the rubble of a demolished building. Monday's series of massive earthquakes have not only destroyed infrastructure but also families. However, in the midst of that devastation, it is moments like this one that is keeping the spirits of rescuers and civilians alive. Watch | Earthquake hit Turkiye and Syria both, why is the response different? The family, which consisted of a father and his two children — a son and a daughter — had been stuck under the collapsed building for a day or ever since the quake-hit Turkey and Syria. Video of this heartwarming rescue is going viral on social media. The Syria chapter of a volunteer organisation known as White Helmets has shared it. Take a look: Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. A true miracle...the sounds of joy embrace the sky... joy beyond belief. An entire family was rescued from under the rubble of their house this afternoon, Tuesday, February 7, in the village of Bisnia, west of #Idlib.#Syria #earthquake pic.twitter.com/Cb7kXLiMjT — The White Helmets (@SyriaCivilDef) February 7, 2023 × Also read | CCTV, amateur videos capture Turkiye, Syria's deadly earthquake In the video, you can see not only the civilian bystanders but also the rescue workers erupt in wild celebrations as the family is pulled from under the rubble, one after the other. Also read | 'Miracle amid devastation': Baby born under rubble; rescued after Syria, Turkey earthquake. Watch! The massive tremors have caused widespread damage in the two countries. As per the last figures made reported by AFP, the death toll has crossed 11,700. However, many are still trapped under the rubble of buildings and housing complexes that were flattened by this quake. The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday warned that the figure would only move upwards and may reach 20,000. As per the organisation, around 23 million people, including 1.4 million children, could be affected by the tremors. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Keeping hope alive': Family survives massive Turkey, Syria earthquake, rescued unscathed. Watch!

South Korea's Parliament has voted to impeach the nation's interior minister Lee Sang-min over his responses to a deadly Halloween crush. This, as per Reuters, has set the stage towards making him the first cabinet member to be ousted by the legislature.&nbsp;As per AFP, the vote was passed 179-109.

Reuters reports that the secret ballot needed 150 votes in the 300-member chamber, where the opposition Democratic Party has a 169-seat majority.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: South Korea Halloween stampede: Under-investigation cop found dead

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Lee will be suspended from duty until a ruling by the country's constitutional court.

On October 29, 159 people were killed, and another 196 were injured in a stampede in the popular Itaewon nightlife area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-halloween-stampede-cops-blame-fatal-crush-on-negligence-552279">South Korea Halloween crowd crush: Cops blame negligence for fatal incident</a>

The motion alleged that the interior minister "failed to take crisis prevention measures for the large crowd" event where scores of costumed partygoers, mostly women in their 20s, were killed.

It also alleged that his immediate response had contributed to the delay in the "poorly coordinated" deployment of emergency responders.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2022-year-that-stampedes-shocked-the-world-547473">2022: Year that stampedes shocked the world</a>

His earlier remark that additional deployment of fire and police personnel would not have prevented the disaster also invited ire.

The motion said that he not only failed "to carry out his role bestowed by the Constitution, he also breached the basic integrity demanded of senior officials with his inappropriate remarks."

However, President Yoon Suk-yeol's office called the motion a "shameful episode in parliamentary history."

(With inputs from agencies)

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South Korea's Parliament has voted to impeach the nation's interior minister Lee Sang-min over his responses to a deadly Halloween crush. This, as per Reuters, has set the stage towards making him the first cabinet member to be ousted by the legislature.

South Korea's Parliament has voted to impeach the nation's interior minister Lee Sang-min over his responses to a deadly Halloween crush. This, as per Reuters, has set the stage towards making him the first cabinet member to be ousted by the legislature. As per AFP, the vote was passed 179-109. Reuters reports that the secret ballot needed 150 votes in the 300-member chamber, where the opposition Democratic Party has a 169-seat majority. Watch | Gravitas: South Korea Halloween stampede: Under-investigation cop found dead Lee will be suspended from duty until a ruling by the country's constitutional court. On October 29, 159 people were killed, and another 196 were injured in a stampede in the popular Itaewon nightlife area. Also read | South Korea Halloween crowd crush: Cops blame negligence for fatal incident The motion alleged that the interior minister "failed to take crisis prevention measures for the large crowd" event where scores of costumed partygoers, mostly women in their 20s, were killed. It also alleged that his immediate response had contributed to the delay in the "poorly coordinated" deployment of emergency responders. Also read | 2022: Year that stampedes shocked the world His earlier remark that additional deployment of fire and police personnel would not have prevented the disaster also invited ire. The motion said that he not only failed "to carry out his role bestowed by the Constitution, he also breached the basic integrity demanded of senior officials with his inappropriate remarks." However, President Yoon Suk-yeol's office called the motion a "shameful episode in parliamentary history." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korean interior minister suspended over last year’s Halloween crowd crush

A fire that engulfed hundreds of shipping containers at Turkey's Iskenderun Port after massive earthquakes in the region has been extinguished, the defence ministry said on Tuesday, but it was not clear when operations would resume at the port.

Turkey's maritime authority said on Monday that the port, located on the Mediterranean coast in the southern province of Hatay, was damaged due to the earthquake that struck Turkey and neighbouring Syria.

Drone footage showed fierce flames blackening hundreds of containers on the dock, with water jets from a fire truck dwarfed by the scale of the blaze that broke out on Monday. Thick black smoke billowed into the sky.

Watch |&nbsp;Hundreds dead, many trapped as major earthquake jolts Turkiye, Syria

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Turkish shipping agency Tribeca said earlier on Tuesday some cargo areas of Limak port at the Iskenderun complex were still on fire.

The blaze led to the shutdown of all operations at the terminal until further notice and forced freight liners to divert vessels to other ports.

The defence ministry said later on Tuesday the fire was put out thanks to efforts by military helicopters and planes after Monday's efforts to douse the flames from offshore failed.

Leading global container shipping group AP Moller Maersk said there had been significant damage to logistics and transport infrastructure around the earthquake epicentre, including at the Port of Iskenderun.

It said it was looking to re-route ships as needed, given the "severe structural damage, leading to a complete stop of all operations until further notice".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/miracle-amid-devastation-baby-born-under-rubble-rescued-after-syria-turkey-earthquake-watch-559637">'Miracle amid devastation': Baby born under rubble; rescued after Syria, Turkey earthquake. Watch!</a>

"We will need to perform a change of destination for all bookings bound for the port or already on the water. We are currently planning to divert containers to nearby hubs within operational feasibility or hold at transhipment ports - including Port of Mersin (in Turkey) and Port Said (in Egypt)."

Maersk added in an updated advisory on Tuesday that a fire broke out among containers at the terminal on Monday evening after the earthquake struck and the company was working to assess the potential loss of cargo.

"It's not yet known how long recovery efforts will take and when the port can undergo a full inspection of the damage."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cctv-amateur-videos-capture-turkiye-syrias-deadly-earthquake-559287">CCTV, amateur videos capture Turkiye, Syria's deadly&nbsp;earthquake</a>

German container shipping line Hapag Lloyd said it was taking shipments from Mersin given the closure of Iskenderun.

A source from a container broker said the fire most likely originated in a container filled with flammable industrial oil, judging by the flames and smoke.

Other containers were toppled on their sides, thwarting access to the emergency services. Authorities had tried in vain to tackle the fire by boat on Monday, with damage nearby from the quake hampering access to the site.

More than 1,200 buildings were destroyed by the earthquake in Hatay province alone.

Iskenderun hosts heavy industries such as steel and is one of the two major container hubs on Turkey's southeastern shores. The port focuses especially on domestic Turkish trade, rather than having a broader regional hub role, according to a shipping source.

Following inspections of damage after the earthquake, the maritime authority said on Monday that operations were continuing in ports apart from Iskenderun.

A tanker docked at Turkey's Ceyhan oil export hub on Tuesday to load Iraqi crude oil, the first since the earthquakes on Monday, according to ship tracking data and a trading source, after bad weather earlier in the day prevented loading.

A fire that engulfed hundreds of shipping containers at Turkey's Iskenderun Port after massive earthquakes in the region has been extinguished, the defence ministry said on Tuesday, but it was not clear when operations would resume at the port.

A fire that engulfed hundreds of shipping containers at Turkey's Iskenderun Port after massive earthquakes in the region has been extinguished, the defence ministry said on Tuesday, but it was not clear when operations would resume at the port. Turkey's maritime authority said on Monday that the port, located on the Mediterranean coast in the southern province of Hatay, was damaged due to the earthquake that struck Turkey and neighbouring Syria. Drone footage showed fierce flames blackening hundreds of containers on the dock, with water jets from a fire truck dwarfed by the scale of the blaze that broke out on Monday. Thick black smoke billowed into the sky. Watch | Hundreds dead, many trapped as major earthquake jolts Turkiye, Syria Turkish shipping agency Tribeca said earlier on Tuesday some cargo areas of Limak port at the Iskenderun complex were still on fire. The blaze led to the shutdown of all operations at the terminal until further notice and forced freight liners to divert vessels to other ports. The defence ministry said later on Tuesday the fire was put out thanks to efforts by military helicopters and planes after Monday's efforts to douse the flames from offshore failed. Leading global container shipping group AP Moller Maersk said there had been significant damage to logistics and transport infrastructure around the earthquake epicentre, including at the Port of Iskenderun. It said it was looking to re-route ships as needed, given the "severe structural damage, leading to a complete stop of all operations until further notice". Also read | 'Miracle amid devastation': Baby born under rubble; rescued after Syria, Turkey earthquake. Watch! "We will need to perform a change of destination for all bookings bound for the port or already on the water. We are currently planning to divert containers to nearby hubs within operational feasibility or hold at transhipment ports - including Port of Mersin (in Turkey) and Port Said (in Egypt)." Maersk added in an updated advisory on Tuesday that a fire broke out among containers at the terminal on Monday evening after the earthquake struck and the company was working to assess the potential loss of cargo. "It's not yet known how long recovery efforts will take and when the port can undergo a full inspection of the damage." Also read | CCTV, amateur videos capture Turkiye, Syria's deadly earthquake German container shipping line Hapag Lloyd said it was taking shipments from Mersin given the closure of Iskenderun. A source from a container broker said the fire most likely originated in a container filled with flammable industrial oil, judging by the flames and smoke. Other containers were toppled on their sides, thwarting access to the emergency services. Authorities had tried in vain to tackle the fire by boat on Monday, with damage nearby from the quake hampering access to the site. More than 1,200 buildings were destroyed by the earthquake in Hatay province alone. Iskenderun hosts heavy industries such as steel and is one of the two major container hubs on Turkey's southeastern shores. The port focuses especially on domestic Turkish trade, rather than having a broader regional hub role, according to a shipping source. Following inspections of damage after the earthquake, the maritime authority said on Monday that operations were continuing in ports apart from Iskenderun. A tanker docked at Turkey's Ceyhan oil export hub on Tuesday to load Iraqi crude oil, the first since the earthquakes on Monday, according to ship tracking data and a trading source, after bad weather earlier in the day prevented loading.

Massive fire at Turkey's Iskenderun Port extinguished: Defence Ministry

Syria has thanked India for sending humanitarian support in the aftermath of the earthquake that impacted the country. A devastating quake hit southern Turkey that also had a huge impact in northern Syria, with thousands feared dead. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Syrian Ambassador Dr Bassam Alkhatib said, "we really appreciate people, Government of India for support, this is the voice of the south we want to see in the future".

India is sending a plane load of humanitarian support to the country, even as the ambassador hoped, "another plane going to Syria with more humanitarian assistance". Yesterday, Indian and Syrian foreign ministers established contacts as New Delhi stepped up its efforts to help the country.

On the sanctions against the country, the ambassador explained, "The government, countries who impose such sanctions, they know well that they are behind the suffering of Syrian people with such sanctions."

Here's the complete conversation:

WION: What is the current situation on the ground?

Dr Bassam Alkhatib: Unluckily it's a devastating situation, a big earthquake impacted many areas of Syria. The last number I received, was 850 death and thousands of casualties of different levels. Many buildings are in ruins, many people are still trapped under the said ruins and everybody in Syria is doing all the possible best to handle the situation. The President, when he heard held a meeting of all the authorities relevant to the situation. The foreign minister also held another meeting with representatives of international organisations. With the help of many friendly countries, we have started to handle the situation. The situation is still sensitive.

WION:&nbsp;How do you view&nbsp;India's support?

Dr Bassam Alkhatib: I would love to start by saying that I was attending a successful meeting in Bangalore under the honourable attendance of the PM. When I heard the news, I started coordinating with the people in Syria and India. The fast good, generous response by the Government of India is really unique. Later on, the Indian PM wrote a message of condolences to Syria. The foreign ministers in both countries contacted each other and the high-ranking officials in the MEA, and by the end of yesterday, the plan was ready, and the decision was taken successfully. The visit of the Mos MEA to the embassy is a message from the people and the Government of India towards the people and the Government of Syria. We are with you; we are keeping the position of India with you, and I can say within less than an hour a plane is leaving the Delhi airport of Delhi, going to Syria full of assistance and equipment.

WION: Can you tell us about the international assistance Syria is receiving?

Dr Bassam Alkhatib: Everybody knows we have friends around the world, and all of them took the right position to be with Syria. I am not going to name countries. Some of them have sent three planes full of assistance. Hopefully, India is now contemplating sending a second plane to Syria. The&nbsp;first one is going right now.

WION:&nbsp;Has the Israeli PM offered support to Syria?

Dr Bassam Alkhatib: The source of the problem and evils for Syria is the Israeli occupation of our land, so such statements are nonsense.

 
WION: How is Syria coordinating&nbsp;with Turkey?

Dr Bassam Alkhatib: For us in Syria, we do believe human beings are human beings. We have no problem with the people of Turkey. We don't want to see the people of Turkey suffering.

WION: What kind of coordination were you looking for from Delhi?

Dr Bassam Alkhatib: Absolutely. Even as I was attending the important conference, I was making contact with everyone in India and Syria. So I have just said, colleagues at the MEA had made contact&nbsp;every hour. Late last night, I was able to make contact between the two&nbsp;foreign ministers, and luckily the result you know, the plane is moving to Syria. We really appreciate the people and the Government of India for their support. This is the voice of the south we want to see in the future.

WION: How much will the sanctions against your country impact&nbsp;the relief and rescue operations in your country?

Dr Bassam Alkhatib: Those sanctions are not only impacting the Syrian government but mainly impact the Syrian people. The government, and countries who impose such sanctions, know well that they are behind the suffering of the Syrian people. But when it comes to honest and independent countries, in decisions and policies like India, it is easy to find solutions to any problem, including these sanctions. We appreciate you coming, and we appreciate the visit of MoS MEA. We really appreciate the Indian heart.

WION: Russia has also extended support to your country in the aftermath of the earthquake?

Dr Bassam Alkhatib: At the high level, the President of Russia call soon, the President of Syria and then many planes and all kinds of assistance were announced. I trust they will help.

Syria has thanked India for sending humanitarian support in the aftermath of the earthquake that impacted the country. A devastating quake hit southern Turkey that also had a huge impact in northern Syria, with thousands feared dead.

Syria has thanked India for sending humanitarian support in the aftermath of the earthquake that impacted the country. A devastating quake hit southern Turkey that also had a huge impact in northern Syria, with thousands feared dead. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Syrian Ambassador Dr Bassam Alkhatib said, "we really appreciate people, Government of India for support, this is the voice of the south we want to see in the future". India is sending a plane load of humanitarian support to the country, even as the ambassador hoped, "another plane going to Syria with more humanitarian assistance". Yesterday, Indian and Syrian foreign ministers established contacts as New Delhi stepped up its efforts to help the country. On the sanctions against the country, the ambassador explained, "The government, countries who impose such sanctions, they know well that they are behind the suffering of Syrian people with such sanctions." Here's the complete conversation: WION: What is the current situation on the ground? Dr Bassam Alkhatib: Unluckily it's a devastating situation, a big earthquake impacted many areas of Syria. The last number I received, was 850 death and thousands of casualties of different levels. Many buildings are in ruins, many people are still trapped under the said ruins and everybody in Syria is doing all the possible best to handle the situation. The President, when he heard held a meeting of all the authorities relevant to the situation. The foreign minister also held another meeting with representatives of international organisations. With the help of many friendly countries, we have started to handle the situation. The situation is still sensitive. WION: How do you view India's support? Dr Bassam Alkhatib: I would love to start by saying that I was attending a successful meeting in Bangalore under the honourable attendance of the PM. When I heard the news, I started coordinating with the people in Syria and India. The fast good, generous response by the Government of India is really unique. Later on, the Indian PM wrote a message of condolences to Syria. The foreign ministers in both countries contacted each other and the high-ranking officials in the MEA, and by the end of yesterday, the plan was ready, and the decision was taken successfully. The visit of the Mos MEA to the embassy is a message from the people and the Government of India towards the people and the Government of Syria. We are with you; we are keeping the position of India with you, and I can say within less than an hour a plane is leaving the Delhi airport of Delhi, going to Syria full of assistance and equipment. WION: Can you tell us about the international assistance Syria is receiving? Dr Bassam Alkhatib: Everybody knows we have friends around the world, and all of them took the right position to be with Syria. I am not going to name countries. Some of them have sent three planes full of assistance. Hopefully, India is now contemplating sending a second plane to Syria. The first one is going right now. WION: Has the Israeli PM offered support to Syria? Dr Bassam Alkhatib: The source of the problem and evils for Syria is the Israeli occupation of our land, so such statements are nonsense. WION: How is Syria coordinating with Turkey? Dr Bassam Alkhatib: For us in Syria, we do believe human beings are human beings. We have no problem with the people of Turkey. We don't want to see the people of Turkey suffering. WION: What kind of coordination were you looking for from Delhi? Dr Bassam Alkhatib: Absolutely. Even as I was attending the important conference, I was making contact with everyone in India and Syria. So I have just said, colleagues at the MEA had made contact every hour. Late last night, I was able to make contact between the two foreign ministers, and luckily the result you know, the plane is moving to Syria. We really appreciate the people and the Government of India for their support. This is the voice of the south we want to see in the future. WION: How much will the sanctions against your country impact the relief and rescue operations in your country? Dr Bassam Alkhatib: Those sanctions are not only impacting the Syrian government but mainly impact the Syrian people. The government, and countries who impose such sanctions, know well that they are behind the suffering of the Syrian people. But when it comes to honest and independent countries, in decisions and policies like India, it is easy to find solutions to any problem, including these sanctions. We appreciate you coming, and we appreciate the visit of MoS MEA. We really appreciate the Indian heart. WION: Russia has also extended support to your country in the aftermath of the earthquake? Dr Bassam Alkhatib: At the high level, the President of Russia call soon, the President of Syria and then many planes and all kinds of assistance were announced. I trust they will help.

Exclusive | Quake-hit Syria thanks India for humanitarian support

The past few weeks ChatGPT and the "miraculous" writing it is capable of have been everywhere; from writing poems, and essays to telling people jokes, it's doing everything. Now, a Princeton University student has come up with an application called "GPTZero", that can sort through AI and human-written text. Here's why it's important.

While most people have been touting its uses as a platform that can "pen down" whatever you ask from it, others have raised alarm over ChatGPT's use in the writing of academic papers, student assignments, etc.&nbsp;

Gravitas: ChatGPT can write poems for your valentine!

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chatgpt-can-write-poems-for-your-valentine-557683/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Edward Tian who is a computer science major at Princeton has developed GPTZero to counter this. Announcing the app on Twitter he writes the app can "quickly and efficiently detect whether an essay is ChatGPT or human written."&nbsp;

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I spent New Years building GPTZero — an app that can quickly and efficiently detect whether an essay is ChatGPT or human written
— Edward Tian (@edward_the6) <a href="https://twitter.com/edward_the6/status/1610067688449007618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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GPTZero as per CBS News, works by examining two variables in whatever piece of writing it examines. It evaluates the text's perplexity which is a measure of the text's randomness. Apparently, human-written text tends to be unpredictable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-unveils-bard-ai-baidu-comes-up-with-ernie-bot-to-take-on-rival-chatgpt-559486">Google unveils ‘Bard’ AI, Baidu comes up with ‘Ernie Bot’ to take on rival ChatGpt</a>

Secondly, it examines "burstiness," or inconsistency in a text. As per Tian, "There is a lot of variance in human-generated articles."

He shared that around 20,000 users have already downloaded the beta version of the app and that teachers from around the world have reached out, and thanked him for making his job easier.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/chatgpt-to-destroy-google-in-minimum-two-years-says-gmail-creator-557376">ChatGPT to destroy Google in minimum two years, says Gmail creator</a>

Now, let us examine why people are against ChatGPT, which could make life easier for a lot of people. The argument voiced by people who are not in favour of ChatGPT is simple: It is unfair to use an AI tool. Additionally, they say that even though AI might be able to write words based on information from the internet; it doesn't really understand the meaning behind those words. This could lead to misinformation.&nbsp;

Recent days saw CHatGPT listed as a co-author in multiple papers. Following this thousands of scientific journal publishers have now restricted or banned the use of this AI-driven chatbot. Many universities and schools too have banned its use.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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The past few weeks ChatGPT and the "miraculous" writing it is capable of have been everywhere; from writing poems, and essays to telling people jokes, it's doing everything.

The past few weeks ChatGPT and the "miraculous" writing it is capable of have been everywhere; from writing poems, and essays to telling people jokes, it's doing everything. Now, a Princeton University student has come up with an application called "GPTZero", that can sort through AI and human-written text. Here's why it's important. While most people have been touting its uses as a platform that can "pen down" whatever you ask from it, others have raised alarm over ChatGPT's use in the writing of academic papers, student assignments, etc. Gravitas: ChatGPT can write poems for your valentine! Edward Tian who is a computer science major at Princeton has developed GPTZero to counter this. Announcing the app on Twitter he writes the app can "quickly and efficiently detect whether an essay is ChatGPT or human written." I spent New Years building GPTZero — an app that can quickly and efficiently detect whether an essay is ChatGPT or human written — Edward Tian (@edward_the6) January 3, 2023 × GPTZero as per CBS News, works by examining two variables in whatever piece of writing it examines. It evaluates the text's perplexity which is a measure of the text's randomness. Apparently, human-written text tends to be unpredictable. Also read | Google unveils ‘Bard’ AI, Baidu comes up with ‘Ernie Bot’ to take on rival ChatGpt Secondly, it examines "burstiness," or inconsistency in a text. As per Tian, "There is a lot of variance in human-generated articles." He shared that around 20,000 users have already downloaded the beta version of the app and that teachers from around the world have reached out, and thanked him for making his job easier. Also read | ChatGPT to destroy Google in minimum two years, says Gmail creator Now, let us examine why people are against ChatGPT, which could make life easier for a lot of people. The argument voiced by people who are not in favour of ChatGPT is simple: It is unfair to use an AI tool. Additionally, they say that even though AI might be able to write words based on information from the internet; it doesn't really understand the meaning behind those words. This could lead to misinformation. Recent days saw CHatGPT listed as a co-author in multiple papers. Following this thousands of scientific journal publishers have now restricted or banned the use of this AI-driven chatbot. Many universities and schools too have banned its use. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Princeton student develops an app which can detect ChatGPT contribution in your 'writing'

A newborn has been rescued from underneath the rubble in Syria. The baby was reportedly born under the remains of a collapsed building. However, as per reports, the mother, unfortunately, did not survive the ordeal.

Footage of the miraculous rescue is all over the internet. The story of this amazing rescue has emerged as a shining light amid the tragedy that has struck Turkey and Syria.

Watch |&nbsp;Hundreds dead, many trapped as major earthquake jolts Turkiye, Syria

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hundreds-dead-many-trapped-as-major-earthquake-jolts-turkiye-syria-559241/embed" width="560"></iframe>

In a video that is going viral on social media, amid the landscape of destruction, a rescuer can be seen running with the newborn in his arms.

Take a look at the astounding rescue here:

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Syria Earthquake, 6.02. A newly born baby, his mother gave birth under the rubble and shortly passed away... This is one of the most shocking videos in the entire history of disasters. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TurkeyEarthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TurkeyEarthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/syriaearthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#syriaearthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TurkeyQuake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TurkeyQuake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TurkiyeEarthquarke?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TurkiyeEarthquarke</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Syria?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Syria</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Turkey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Turkey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%A2%D1%83%D1%80%D0%B5%D1%87%D1%87%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B0?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Туреччина</a> <a href="https://t.co/th97887iZZ">pic.twitter.com/th97887iZZ</a>
— Oksana Johannesson (@Miss_Oksana) <a href="https://twitter.com/Miss_Oksana/status/1622715217003048960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

As per local media reports quoted by Daily Mail, the mother who had been displaced from Syria's eastern Deir Ezzor region went into labour in the aftermath of the quake.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cctv-amateur-videos-capture-turkiye-syrias-deadly-earthquake-559287">CCTV, amateur videos capture Turkiye, Syria's deadly&nbsp;earthquake</a>

Reports suggest that the infant's whole family has perished in the devastation. Rescuers are looking after the baby.

On Monday, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the two nations, bringing down multi-storey buildings and spreading devastation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-earthquake-update-heres-how-you-can-donate-to-help-relief-efforts-in-the-disaster-hit-countries-559509">Turkey Syria Earthquake Update: Here’s how you can donate to help relief efforts in the disaster-hit countries</a>

This massive earthquake was followed by subsequent tremors of equal and slightly lesser magnitude; each one devastating.

As per the latest figures, the death toll from the disaster has already crossed the 5,000 mark. It is feared that the number would only move upwards and may reach 20,000. The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday warned that 23 million people including 1.4 million children could be affected by the tremors.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A newborn has been rescued from underneath the rubble in Syria. The baby was reportedly born under the remains of a collapsed building. However, as per reports, the mother, unfortunately, did not survive the ordeal.

A newborn has been rescued from underneath the rubble in Syria. The baby was reportedly born under the remains of a collapsed building. However, as per reports, the mother, unfortunately, did not survive the ordeal. Footage of the miraculous rescue is all over the internet. The story of this amazing rescue has emerged as a shining light amid the tragedy that has struck Turkey and Syria. Watch | Hundreds dead, many trapped as major earthquake jolts Turkiye, Syria In a video that is going viral on social media, amid the landscape of destruction, a rescuer can be seen running with the newborn in his arms. Take a look at the astounding rescue here: Syria Earthquake, 6.02. A newly born baby, his mother gave birth under the rubble and shortly passed away... This is one of the most shocking videos in the entire history of disasters. #TurkeyEarthquake #syriaearthquake #TurkeyQuake #TurkiyeEarthquarke #Syria #Turkey #Туреччина pic.twitter.com/th97887iZZ — Oksana Johannesson (@Miss_Oksana) February 6, 2023 × Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. As per local media reports quoted by Daily Mail, the mother who had been displaced from Syria's eastern Deir Ezzor region went into labour in the aftermath of the quake. Also read | CCTV, amateur videos capture Turkiye, Syria's deadly earthquake Reports suggest that the infant's whole family has perished in the devastation. Rescuers are looking after the baby. On Monday, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the two nations, bringing down multi-storey buildings and spreading devastation. Also read | Turkey Syria Earthquake Update: Here’s how you can donate to help relief efforts in the disaster-hit countries This massive earthquake was followed by subsequent tremors of equal and slightly lesser magnitude; each one devastating. As per the latest figures, the death toll from the disaster has already crossed the 5,000 mark. It is feared that the number would only move upwards and may reach 20,000. The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday warned that 23 million people including 1.4 million children could be affected by the tremors. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Miracle amid devastation': Baby born under rubble; rescued after Syria, Turkey earthquake. Watch!