A San Diego-based aquarium and theme park has announced a 'once in a decade' event. For the first time in 13 years, SeaWorld San Diego celebrated the rare hatching of an emperor penguin chick, marking a significant event for the park.

<h2>'Exciting thing'</h2>

On Wednesday, SeaWorld announced that the emperor penguin chick came out of its eggshell with the help of the zoo staff on September 12.

In a video shared with the press, Justin Brackett, SeaWorld's birds curator, stressed the exceptional nature of this development&nbsp;and said: "This is the most exciting thing we'll do all year, potentially all decade."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/climate-change-threatens-emperor-penguins-species-faces-extinction-in-30-years-476953">Climate change threatens Emperor penguins; species faces extinction in 30 years</a>

<h2>Why is this so significant?</h2>

The emperor penguin is classified as a threatened species and is native to Antarctica. At SeaWorld, 17 of these penguins are kept in a controlled habitat that is maintained at a chilly 25 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 5 degrees Celsius).&nbsp;

While the zoo houses around 300 penguins from various species, the successful hatching of the emperor penguin held special significance for SeaWorld's staff, said supervisor of the birds, Melissa Ramsey, who was directly involved in the hatching process.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-fossil-of-giant-150kg-penguin-that-walked-the-earth-57-million-years-ago-561978">Scientists discover fossil of giant 150kg penguin that walked the Earth 57 million years ago</a>

Unlike some other penguin species that lay multiple eggs annually, the female emperor only lays a single egg each year, clarified Ramsey during a telephone interview with Reuters.

The park disclosed that the egg was laid on July 7.

<h2>Emperor penguins</h2>

The largest among penguin species, the emperor penguin, scientifically known as Aptenodytes forsteri, can grow up to 3.7 feet (1.15 meters) in height and can weigh as much as 99 pounds (45 kilograms), according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

The species' egg-laying habits differ from other species. Emperor penguins only lay one egg at a time. In most penguin species, both male and female penguins usually take turns incubating the egg. However, the female emperor generally returns to the sea to feed after laying the egg, leaving the male to tend to the egg for over two months without feeding.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-grapples-with-unprecedented-bear-attacks-amidst-food-shortages-experts-issue-urgent-warning-652889">Japan grapples with unprecedented bear attacks amidst food shortages. Experts issue urgent warning</a>

<h2>The artificial hatching</h2>

The recent zoo hatching was also unique due to the fact that the mother penguin did not transfer the egg to the father for incubation.

Due to this, SeaWorld's staff assumed the responsibility. They noticed signs of movement and sound from within the egg on September 7. However, after 72 hours without any significant progress, the team intervened.&nbsp;

You can watch a video of the hatching here:

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Ramsey revealed that&nbsp;they&nbsp;poked a small hole in the egg to help the penguin in its hatching process over the subsequent two days. It was later identified that a beak malformation in the chick had hindered its successful hatching.

SeaWorld has extended an invitation to the public to participate in naming the newly hatched penguin. People can choose from among three names: Pearl, Pandora, and Astrid. They can put in their votes on Instagram or via email till 11:59 pm on October 31.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A San Diego-based aquarium and theme park has announced a 'once in a decade' event. For the first time in 13 years, SeaWorld San Diego celebrated the rare hatching of an emperor penguin chick, marking a significant event for the park.

A San Diego-based aquarium and theme park has announced a 'once in a decade' event. For the first time in 13 years, SeaWorld San Diego celebrated the rare hatching of an emperor penguin chick, marking a significant event for the park. 'Exciting thing' On Wednesday, SeaWorld announced that the emperor penguin chick came out of its eggshell with the help of the zoo staff on September 12. In a video shared with the press, Justin Brackett, SeaWorld's birds curator, stressed the exceptional nature of this development and said: "This is the most exciting thing we'll do all year, potentially all decade." Also read | Climate change threatens Emperor penguins; species faces extinction in 30 years Why is this so significant? The emperor penguin is classified as a threatened species and is native to Antarctica. At SeaWorld, 17 of these penguins are kept in a controlled habitat that is maintained at a chilly 25 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 5 degrees Celsius). While the zoo houses around 300 penguins from various species, the successful hatching of the emperor penguin held special significance for SeaWorld's staff, said supervisor of the birds, Melissa Ramsey, who was directly involved in the hatching process. Also read | Scientists discover fossil of giant 150kg penguin that walked the Earth 57 million years ago Unlike some other penguin species that lay multiple eggs annually, the female emperor only lays a single egg each year, clarified Ramsey during a telephone interview with Reuters. The park disclosed that the egg was laid on July 7. Emperor penguins The largest among penguin species, the emperor penguin, scientifically known as Aptenodytes forsteri, can grow up to 3.7 feet (1.15 meters) in height and can weigh as much as 99 pounds (45 kilograms), according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The species' egg-laying habits differ from other species. Emperor penguins only lay one egg at a time. In most penguin species, both male and female penguins usually take turns incubating the egg. However, the female emperor generally returns to the sea to feed after laying the egg, leaving the male to tend to the egg for over two months without feeding. Also read | Japan grapples with unprecedented bear attacks amidst food shortages. Experts issue urgent warning The artificial hatching The recent zoo hatching was also unique due to the fact that the mother penguin did not transfer the egg to the father for incubation. Due to this, SeaWorld's staff assumed the responsibility. They noticed signs of movement and sound from within the egg on September 7. However, after 72 hours without any significant progress, the team intervened. You can watch a video of the hatching here: SeaWorld San Diego welcomed the hatching of an emperor penguin for the first time in 13 years, announcing that the female chick came out of its shell with help from zoo staff on September 12 https://t.co/us2dWCFxj5 pic.twitter.com/3F4ORvi5SA — Reuters (@Reuters) October 26, 2023 × Ramsey revealed that they poked a small hole in the egg to help the penguin in its hatching process over the subsequent two days. It was later identified that a beak malformation in the chick had hindered its successful hatching. SeaWorld has extended an invitation to the public to participate in naming the newly hatched penguin. People can choose from among three names: Pearl, Pandora, and Astrid. They can put in their votes on Instagram or via email till 11:59 pm on October 31. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

SeaWorld San Diego witnesses 'once in a decade' hatching of emperor penguin

Japan is witnessing a dramatic increase in bear attacks as experts sound the alarm about rising encounters between bears and humans,&nbsp;as the animals struggle to find food in their natural habitats.

The number of bear-related incidents has reached an unprecedented level, with at least 158 injuries and two fatalities since April, equalling the record set in 2020.&nbsp;

<h2>Why&nbsp;are the attacks happening?</h2>

These attacks, according to the environment ministry, are concentrated in the northern part of Honshu, Japan's largest island.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-announces-new-rule-over-revenue-share-arrangement-with-x-users-652817">Elon Musk announces new rule over revenue share arrangement with X users</a>

This surge in bear encounters is attributed to a combination of factors: a bumper crop of acorns and beechnuts last year, which led to the birth of larger bear cubs. That, along with a shortage of dietary staples this year, has forced bears to venture into populated areas for food before hibernation.

In the past, bear encounters were primarily related to foragers and hikers in the forests. However, as per the Guardian, the once-distinct boundaries between bear habitats and depopulated villages have blurred, resulting in more frequent human encounters with bears in urban areas.

<h2>Bear attacks</h2>

Reports from Japan's Kyodo news agency reveal that 15 of Japan's 47 prefectures reported bear attacks in the six months leading up to September. The highest number of incidents occurred in Akita, followed by Iwate and Fukushima.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/australia-halts-trade-negotiations-with-eu-heres-why-652846">Australia halts trade negotiations with EU. Here's why&nbsp;</a>

Iwate authorities noted that over half of the reported attacks occurred near people's homes, and around a fifth of the victims had taken preventive measures, like carrying bear-deterring bells, yet were still targeted.

Earlier this month, a bear attacked six people in a single day in an urban area of Akita, including an elderly woman and a schoolgirl waiting at a bus stop. Three of these attacks occurred in a neighbourhood near shops, residences, and a hospital.

<h2>Officials issue warning</h2>

In light of the extraordinary surge in bear attacks, the nation's environment ministry has urged the public to dispose of household food waste properly, as it can attract bears, and to keep doors closed. Farmers have also been advised not to leave fallen fruit on the ground.

Furthermore,&nbsp;the country's public broadcaster&nbsp;NHK in a recently&nbsp;aired&nbsp;programme advised&nbsp;people to carry&nbsp;bear repellant spray and avoid making eye contact or attempting to flee from the animal if encountering a bear.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan is witnessing a dramatic increase in bear attacks as experts sound the alarm about rising encounters between bears and humans, as the animals struggle to find food in their natural habitats.

Japan is witnessing a dramatic increase in bear attacks as experts sound the alarm about rising encounters between bears and humans, as the animals struggle to find food in their natural habitats. The number of bear-related incidents has reached an unprecedented level, with at least 158 injuries and two fatalities since April, equalling the record set in 2020. Why are the attacks happening? These attacks, according to the environment ministry, are concentrated in the northern part of Honshu, Japan's largest island. Also read | Elon Musk announces new rule over revenue share arrangement with X users This surge in bear encounters is attributed to a combination of factors: a bumper crop of acorns and beechnuts last year, which led to the birth of larger bear cubs. That, along with a shortage of dietary staples this year, has forced bears to venture into populated areas for food before hibernation. In the past, bear encounters were primarily related to foragers and hikers in the forests. However, as per the Guardian, the once-distinct boundaries between bear habitats and depopulated villages have blurred, resulting in more frequent human encounters with bears in urban areas. Bear attacks Reports from Japan's Kyodo news agency reveal that 15 of Japan's 47 prefectures reported bear attacks in the six months leading up to September. The highest number of incidents occurred in Akita, followed by Iwate and Fukushima. Also read | Australia halts trade negotiations with EU. Here's why Iwate authorities noted that over half of the reported attacks occurred near people's homes, and around a fifth of the victims had taken preventive measures, like carrying bear-deterring bells, yet were still targeted. Earlier this month, a bear attacked six people in a single day in an urban area of Akita, including an elderly woman and a schoolgirl waiting at a bus stop. Three of these attacks occurred in a neighbourhood near shops, residences, and a hospital. Officials issue warning In light of the extraordinary surge in bear attacks, the nation's environment ministry has urged the public to dispose of household food waste properly, as it can attract bears, and to keep doors closed. Farmers have also been advised not to leave fallen fruit on the ground. Furthermore, the country's public broadcaster NHK in a recently aired programme advised people to carry bear repellant spray and avoid making eye contact or attempting to flee from the animal if encountering a bear. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan grapples with unprecedented bear attacks amidst food shortages. Experts issue urgent warning

Hundreds of Spider-Man enthusiasts come together in 'crazy' attempt for world record

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy.

As the Israel-Hamas war enters its 21st day, the internet is appalled as videos of a new TikTok trend are going viral. In these videos, people, allegedly Israeli citizens, can be seen mocking Palestinians.

This comes as the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry&nbsp;released a list of names of almost 7,000 Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes.

<h2>A mockery of tragedy</h2>

In these videos, people can be seen mocking different aspects of Palestinian suffering. Due to the sensitive nature of the videos, we have not attached them here, but they can easily be accessed on all social media platforms.&nbsp;

An alarming aspect of these videos is the small children&nbsp;who can be seen taking part in the taunting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-releases-names-of-nearly-7000-people-killed-amid-israeli-strikes-651766">Israel-Hamas war: Gaza health ministry releases names of nearly 7,000 people 'killed' amid Israeli strikes</a>

Donning keffiyeh — a traditional headdress worn in many Middle Eastern nations, including Gaza, these people can be seen wearing makeup to appear injured and sprinkling talcum powder to make it seem like they're covered in dust or debris. In some videos, people carry dolls swaddled in cloth — a mockery of reports of the mothers who have lost their babies to the Israeli strikes.

One such video poking fun at Palestinian mothers by an Israeli influencer identified by The Express Tribune as Eve Cohen sparked controversy earlier this week. Cohen in the video allegedly claimed that mothers are faking the deaths of their children.

In others, they flaunt water, or light candles in the dark — jeering at Palestinians who have gone without water and power for days.&nbsp;

<h2>A wave of outrage</h2>

The videos by Cohen and others have predictably sparked widespread outrage. Netizens are calling out people in the videos for their apparent lack of sensitivity towards the Palestinian plight.&nbsp;

On X, one user questioned, "Is Palestinian genocide the new source of Israeli comedy or something?"

Another said that the videos were an "example of the anti-Palestinian racist conspiracy theory of 'pallywood,' where some Zionists argue that Palestinians manipulate media through 'faking suffering' - unsurprisingly, it's also very similar to anti-Semitic tropes too. Very telling about Israel supporters."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-says-may-support-gaza-ceasefire-only-after-hostages-freed-650469">US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed</a>

One user labelled the videos 'revolting' and cautioned, "Karma never fails, by the way!"

Expressing alarm at these videos that also feature small children, one user wrote: "Wtf??? There kids are learning how to be racist from a very young age!!!!!!!!!"

Others quoted the Bible and posted: "Galatians 6:7 (KJV) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy. As the Israel-Hamas war enters its 21st day, the internet is appalled as videos of a new TikTok trend are going viral. In these videos, people, allegedly Israeli citizens, can be seen mocking Palestinians. This comes as the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry released a list of names of almost 7,000 Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes. A mockery of tragedy In these videos, people can be seen mocking different aspects of Palestinian suffering. Due to the sensitive nature of the videos, we have not attached them here, but they can easily be accessed on all social media platforms. An alarming aspect of these videos is the small children who can be seen taking part in the taunting. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza health ministry releases names of nearly 7,000 people 'killed' amid Israeli strikes Donning keffiyeh — a traditional headdress worn in many Middle Eastern nations, including Gaza, these people can be seen wearing makeup to appear injured and sprinkling talcum powder to make it seem like they're covered in dust or debris. In some videos, people carry dolls swaddled in cloth — a mockery of reports of the mothers who have lost their babies to the Israeli strikes. One such video poking fun at Palestinian mothers by an Israeli influencer identified by The Express Tribune as Eve Cohen sparked controversy earlier this week. Cohen in the video allegedly claimed that mothers are faking the deaths of their children. In others, they flaunt water, or light candles in the dark — jeering at Palestinians who have gone without water and power for days. A wave of outrage The videos by Cohen and others have predictably sparked widespread outrage. Netizens are calling out people in the videos for their apparent lack of sensitivity towards the Palestinian plight. On X, one user questioned, "Is Palestinian genocide the new source of Israeli comedy or something?" Another said that the videos were an "example of the anti-Palestinian racist conspiracy theory of 'pallywood,' where some Zionists argue that Palestinians manipulate media through 'faking suffering' - unsurprisingly, it's also very similar to anti-Semitic tropes too. Very telling about Israel supporters." Also read | US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed One user labelled the videos 'revolting' and cautioned, "Karma never fails, by the way!" Expressing alarm at these videos that also feature small children, one user wrote: "Wtf??? There kids are learning how to be racist from a very young age!!!!!!!!!" Others quoted the Bible and posted: "Galatians 6:7 (KJV) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians

Donald Trump has been accused of trying to "send an unmistakable and threatening message to a foreseeable witness" during the federal election interference case against him.&nbsp;

This comes as just a few days earlier, Trump's former chief of staff Mark Meadows was reportedly granted immunity as he testified in front of a grand jury in Washington.

Special counsel Jack Smith alleged intimidation in a court filing on Wednesday (Oct 25th) that sought a gag order against the ex-president. The order was granted by Judge Tanya Chutkan only to be suspended after an appeal by Trump's lawyers, reports The Guardian.

<h2>Mark Meadows</h2>

As per an ABC News report on Tuesday, Mark Meadows was granted immunity, which typically lets a witness provide only limited statements that the justice department can't use against them for federal charges.

Meadows reportedly provided testimony that included evidence of him informing Trump that the election fraud allegations were unsubstantiated, reported the publication.

Trump's former chief of staff could be a major witness against the ex-president, given his proximity to efforts to overturn the 2020 elections.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-trump-fined-10000-for-breaking-gag-order-amid-ongoing-new-york-civil-fraud-trial-651320">Trump fined $10,000 for violating gag order amid ongoing New York civil fraud trial</a>

On Truth Social, his social media platform, Trump alleged that Meadows had lied "merely for getting immunity against persecution".

"I don't think Mark Meadows would lie about the Rigged and Stollen [sic] 2020 Presidential Election merely for getting IMMUNITY against Prosecution (PERSECUTION!) by Deranged Prosecutor, Jack Smith," he wrote.

"BUT, when you really think about it, after being hounded like a dog for three years, told you'll be going to jail for the rest of your life, your money and your family will be forever gone, and we're not at all interested in exposing those that did the RIGGING – If you say BAD THINGS about that terrible 'MONSTER', DONALD J TRUMP, we won’t put you in prison, you can keep your family and your wealth, and, perhaps, if you can make up some really horrible 'STUFF' a[b]out him, we may very well erect a statue of you in the middle of our decaying and now very violent Capital, Washington DC."

"Some people would make that deal, but they are weaklings and cowards, and so bad for the future our Failing Nation. I don't think that Mark Meadows is one of them, but who really knows?"

<h2>Charges Trump faces</h2>

Donald Trump is facing four federal charges related to his attempt to overturn the 2020 elections he lost to Joe Biden.

He is also facing 13 charges&nbsp;linked to election interference in Georgia, along with 34 charges in New York concerning a hush-money payment case. Additionally, he faces 40 federal charges associated with the retention of classified information after his presidency. Apart from these, there are civil suits, including cases in New York regarding his business dealings, that resulted in a fine&nbsp;for breaching a gag order. Moreover, there is an allegation of rape that a judge has determined to be "substantially true."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cohen-is-a-proven-liar-says-donald-trump-as-ex-lawyer-testifies-in-civil-fraud-case-650888">'Cohen is a proven liar', says Donald Trump as ex-lawyer testifies in civil fraud case</a>

However, he denies all accusations of wrongdoing and instead alleges that it is a witch-hunt.

Recently, a Trump spokesperson called the trials Trump faces "empty cases" and alleged that "wrongful, unethical leaks throughout these Biden witch-hunts only underscore how detrimental these empty cases are to our democracy and system of justice and how vital it is for President Trump's first amendment rights to not be infringed upon by un-constitutional gag orders."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Donald Trump has been accused of trying to "send an unmistakable and threatening message to a foreseeable witness" during the federal election interference case against him.

Donald Trump has been accused of trying to "send an unmistakable and threatening message to a foreseeable witness" during the federal election interference case against him. This comes as just a few days earlier, Trump's former chief of staff Mark Meadows was reportedly granted immunity as he testified in front of a grand jury in Washington. Special counsel Jack Smith alleged intimidation in a court filing on Wednesday (Oct 25th) that sought a gag order against the ex-president. The order was granted by Judge Tanya Chutkan only to be suspended after an appeal by Trump's lawyers, reports The Guardian. Mark Meadows As per an ABC News report on Tuesday, Mark Meadows was granted immunity, which typically lets a witness provide only limited statements that the justice department can't use against them for federal charges. Meadows reportedly provided testimony that included evidence of him informing Trump that the election fraud allegations were unsubstantiated, reported the publication. Trump's former chief of staff could be a major witness against the ex-president, given his proximity to efforts to overturn the 2020 elections. Also read | Trump fined $10,000 for violating gag order amid ongoing New York civil fraud trial On Truth Social, his social media platform, Trump alleged that Meadows had lied "merely for getting immunity against persecution". "I don't think Mark Meadows would lie about the Rigged and Stollen [sic] 2020 Presidential Election merely for getting IMMUNITY against Prosecution (PERSECUTION!) by Deranged Prosecutor, Jack Smith," he wrote. "BUT, when you really think about it, after being hounded like a dog for three years, told you'll be going to jail for the rest of your life, your money and your family will be forever gone, and we're not at all interested in exposing those that did the RIGGING – If you say BAD THINGS about that terrible 'MONSTER', DONALD J TRUMP, we won’t put you in prison, you can keep your family and your wealth, and, perhaps, if you can make up some really horrible 'STUFF' a[b]out him, we may very well erect a statue of you in the middle of our decaying and now very violent Capital, Washington DC." "Some people would make that deal, but they are weaklings and cowards, and so bad for the future our Failing Nation. I don't think that Mark Meadows is one of them, but who really knows?" Charges Trump faces Donald Trump is facing four federal charges related to his attempt to overturn the 2020 elections he lost to Joe Biden. He is also facing 13 charges linked to election interference in Georgia, along with 34 charges in New York concerning a hush-money payment case. Additionally, he faces 40 federal charges associated with the retention of classified information after his presidency. Apart from these, there are civil suits, including cases in New York regarding his business dealings, that resulted in a fine for breaching a gag order. Moreover, there is an allegation of rape that a judge has determined to be "substantially true." Also read | 'Cohen is a proven liar', says Donald Trump as ex-lawyer testifies in civil fraud case However, he denies all accusations of wrongdoing and instead alleges that it is a witch-hunt. Recently, a Trump spokesperson called the trials Trump faces "empty cases" and alleged that "wrongful, unethical leaks throughout these Biden witch-hunts only underscore how detrimental these empty cases are to our democracy and system of justice and how vital it is for President Trump's first amendment rights to not be infringed upon by un-constitutional gag orders." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Donald Trump accused of sending 'threatening message to a foreseeable witness'

A Democratic congressman admitted a misdemeanour charge of deliberately setting off a fire alarm at the US Capitol complex that forced the evacuation of an office building ahead of a crucial vote.

Jamaal Bowman appeared in DC Superior Court on Wednesday, where he agreed to pay a $1,000 fine and write an apology to police in return for the charges being withdrawn in three months, according to court documents and a statement from the New York lawmaker.

Bowman, 47, said he was rushing from his office to make the September 30 vote on a funding bill aimed at averting a government shutdown and pulled the alarm in an attempt to open a door he couldn't get through.

That caused Cannon House office block near the main Capitol building to be evacuated for an hour.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/need-to-have-dialogue-chinas-wang-yi-tells-us-as-he-lays-groundwork-for-xi-biden-meet-651753">‘Need to have dialogue,’ China’s Wang Yi tells US as he lays groundwork for Xi-Biden meet</a>

Republicans say the former school principal, who was captured on camera, was seeking to stall the vote and introduced a censure motion Wednesday to remove him from his committee assignments.

"Rep. Bowman's excuse does not pass the sniff test," House administration committee chairman Bryan Steil said in a statement.&nbsp;

"After pulling the fire alarm, Rep. Bowman fled the scene, passed by multiple Capitol Police officers and had every opportunity to alert USCP of his mistake."

Bowman, a combative progressive who is unafraid to have public rows with his opponents in the halls of Congress, has become a favourite sparring partner for Republicans.

He said in a statement he was grateful that police "agreed I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote or proceedings."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maine-mass-shootings-manhunt-still-underway-biden-condemns-senseless-and-tragic-incident-651838">Maine mass shootings: Manhunt still underway, Biden condemns 'senseless and tragic' incident</a>

"I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped," he said.

The House approved the 45-day stopgap funding bill -- with a yes vote from Bowman -- shortly after the drama came to an end.

Hakeem Jeffries, the leader of the House Democrats, stood by the congressman and slammed Republicans with "their hair on fire" over his conduct, while not showing outrage over the January 6, 2021 assault on the Capitol by supporters of former president Donald Trump.

"Many of them who are having a panic attack publicly about Jamaal Bowman have actually defended or refused to comment on the violent mob on January 6," he told reporters.&nbsp;

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A Democratic congressman admitted a misdemeanour charge of deliberately setting off a fire alarm at the US Capitol complex that forced the evacuation of an office building ahead of a crucial vote.

A Democratic congressman admitted a misdemeanour charge of deliberately setting off a fire alarm at the US Capitol complex that forced the evacuation of an office building ahead of a crucial vote. Jamaal Bowman appeared in DC Superior Court on Wednesday, where he agreed to pay a $1,000 fine and write an apology to police in return for the charges being withdrawn in three months, according to court documents and a statement from the New York lawmaker. Bowman, 47, said he was rushing from his office to make the September 30 vote on a funding bill aimed at averting a government shutdown and pulled the alarm in an attempt to open a door he couldn't get through. That caused Cannon House office block near the main Capitol building to be evacuated for an hour. Also read | ‘Need to have dialogue,’ China’s Wang Yi tells US as he lays groundwork for Xi-Biden meet Republicans say the former school principal, who was captured on camera, was seeking to stall the vote and introduced a censure motion Wednesday to remove him from his committee assignments. "Rep. Bowman's excuse does not pass the sniff test," House administration committee chairman Bryan Steil said in a statement. "After pulling the fire alarm, Rep. Bowman fled the scene, passed by multiple Capitol Police officers and had every opportunity to alert USCP of his mistake." Bowman, a combative progressive who is unafraid to have public rows with his opponents in the halls of Congress, has become a favourite sparring partner for Republicans. He said in a statement he was grateful that police "agreed I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote or proceedings." Also read | Maine mass shootings: Manhunt still underway, Biden condemns 'senseless and tragic' incident "I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped," he said. The House approved the 45-day stopgap funding bill -- with a yes vote from Bowman -- shortly after the drama came to an end. Hakeem Jeffries, the leader of the House Democrats, stood by the congressman and slammed Republicans with "their hair on fire" over his conduct, while not showing outrage over the January 6, 2021 assault on the Capitol by supporters of former president Donald Trump. "Many of them who are having a panic attack publicly about Jamaal Bowman have actually defended or refused to comment on the violent mob on January 6," he told reporters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US congressman Jamaal Bowman fined for setting off fire alarm ahead of speaker vote

Russia is going the orthodox way in women's reproductive healthcare. As per reports, Russian cities like Kaliningrad are attempting to ban abortions in local private clinics.&nbsp;

Even though abortion remains legal and widely available in Russia, the country has recently tried to restrict the right. This, as per news agency AP, has touched a nerve across the increasingly conservative nations.

<h2>What is happening?</h2>

As per AP, in Kaliningrad, restricting abortion access is still a proposal, however, private clinics elsewhere have reportedly begun denying abortions.

Nationwide, Russia's health ministry has reportedly drawn up talking points for doctors&nbsp;— which&nbsp;seek to discourage medical abortions. These, as per media reports, include phrases like pregnancy is "a beautiful and natural condition for every woman." On the other hand, abortion is propagated as "harmful to your health and a risk of developing complications."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-social-media-scrambles-to-scrub-spoof-videos-mocking-palestinians-651829">Israel-Hamas war: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians</a>

Michele Rivkin-Fish, an anthropologist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, as quoted by AP said: "It's clear that there is a gradual erosion of abortion access and rights in Russia, and this is similar to what has taken place in the US."

<h2>Abortions and Russia</h2>

Currently, laws allow women to end a pregnancy at up to 12 weeks, and for special "social reasons," like divorce, unemployment, or because of income, this can be pushed back to 22 weeks. Only in instances of rape is an abortion legally allowed between 12 and 22 weeks.&nbsp;

Historically, Russian women had access to abortions. Even back in the Soviet Union times, when getting contraceptives was difficult, women would opt for multiple abortions in their lifetimes.

After the USSR collapsed, government and health experts promoted family planning and birth control, which contributed to a decrease in abortion rates. In 1991, Russians had 4.1 million abortions, in 2021 this number fell to 517,000.

ALso read |&nbsp;

However, as President Vladimir Putin rose to power, his alliance with the Russian Orthodox Church, promotion of "traditional values," and attempts to boost population growth led to abortions being looked down upon.

Now, women have to wait for at least 48 hours, and up to a week for the abortion — the waiting period depends on the stage of their pregnancy. Furthermore, to discourage abortions, they are offered psychological consults, as per state-issued guidelines.

Besides, a recent Health Ministry decree that takes effect on September 1, 2024, has restricted the circulation of abortion pills that terminate pregnancies in the first trimester.

The anti-abortion push, as per AP, comes as amid the Russia-Ukraine war, women seem to take a step back from having children.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Russia is going the orthodox way in women's reproductive healthcare. As per reports, Russian cities like Kaliningrad are attempting to ban abortions in local private clinics.

Russia is going the orthodox way in women's reproductive healthcare. As per reports, Russian cities like Kaliningrad are attempting to ban abortions in local private clinics. Even though abortion remains legal and widely available in Russia, the country has recently tried to restrict the right. This, as per news agency AP, has touched a nerve across the increasingly conservative nations. What is happening? As per AP, in Kaliningrad, restricting abortion access is still a proposal, however, private clinics elsewhere have reportedly begun denying abortions. Nationwide, Russia's health ministry has reportedly drawn up talking points for doctors — which seek to discourage medical abortions. These, as per media reports, include phrases like pregnancy is "a beautiful and natural condition for every woman." On the other hand, abortion is propagated as "harmful to your health and a risk of developing complications." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians Michele Rivkin-Fish, an anthropologist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, as quoted by AP said: "It's clear that there is a gradual erosion of abortion access and rights in Russia, and this is similar to what has taken place in the US." Abortions and Russia Currently, laws allow women to end a pregnancy at up to 12 weeks, and for special "social reasons," like divorce, unemployment, or because of income, this can be pushed back to 22 weeks. Only in instances of rape is an abortion legally allowed between 12 and 22 weeks. Historically, Russian women had access to abortions. Even back in the Soviet Union times, when getting contraceptives was difficult, women would opt for multiple abortions in their lifetimes. After the USSR collapsed, government and health experts promoted family planning and birth control, which contributed to a decrease in abortion rates. In 1991, Russians had 4.1 million abortions, in 2021 this number fell to 517,000. ALso read | However, as President Vladimir Putin rose to power, his alliance with the Russian Orthodox Church, promotion of "traditional values," and attempts to boost population growth led to abortions being looked down upon. Now, women have to wait for at least 48 hours, and up to a week for the abortion — the waiting period depends on the stage of their pregnancy. Furthermore, to discourage abortions, they are offered psychological consults, as per state-issued guidelines. Besides, a recent Health Ministry decree that takes effect on September 1, 2024, has restricted the circulation of abortion pills that terminate pregnancies in the first trimester. The anti-abortion push, as per AP, comes as amid the Russia-Ukraine war, women seem to take a step back from having children. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Under Putin, Russia gets orthodox about abortions, restricts access

Scientists in Brazil have developed a new treatment for crack, and cocaine: a vaccine. The drug will work in an innovative way, by depriving users of the "high".&nbsp;

It is called "Calixcoca," and here's everything you need to know about this vaccine for cocaine.

<h2>How Calixcoca works</h2>

The vaccine, as per an AFP report, triggers an immune response, which blocks the high from cocaine and its derivatives and stops it from reaching the brain.

As per the report, the immune response trigger will make a patient's body produce antibodies that bind cocaine molecules to the bloodstream. The enlarged molecules will be rendered too large to pass into the brain's "reward centre" or the mesolimbic system that is stimulated by cocaine to produce dopamine&nbsp;— the pleasure-inducing reward chemical.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/will-wikipedia-become-diipedia-elon-musk-offers-1-billion-for-nsfw-name-change-650212">Will Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change</a>

Once vaccinated, the drug will potentially help people break the cycle of addiction. Basically, despite consuming the drug, they won't get the high they're seeking.

Last week the project won 500,000 euros ($530,000) — the top prize at the Euro Health Innovation Awards for Latin American medicine.

<h2>Does it actually work?</h2>

Scientists have tested the drug on animals, and it has shown promising results, producing significant levels of antibodies against cocaine. Side effects were few and furthermore, the vaccine was found to help protect rat foetuses against cocaine.&nbsp;

This, as per the scientists behind the innovative drug, can help protect the unborn babies of pregnant addicts.

After promising results in animals, the vaccine is now set to enter the next stage of trials on humans.

<h2>Why did no one think of a vaccine for cocaine earlier?</h2>

They did. In the United States, which, as per the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, happens to be the world's top consumer, similar studies were carried out.&nbsp;

However, when clinical trials didn't show sufficient results, these studies were stalled, said psychiatrist Frederico Garcia, coordinator of the team that developed the treatment at the Federal University of Minas Gerais.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-readies-to-launch-roman-telescope-for-humanitys-farthest-ever-peek-into-milky-way-galaxy-651141">NASA readies to launch Roman telescope for humanity's farthest-ever peek into Milky Way galaxy</a>

As per Garcia, "There's no specific registered treatment for cocaine and crack addiction. We currently use a combination of psychological counselling, social assistance and rehabilitation, when necessary."&nbsp;

He further warned that the drug would be a supplementary treatment in addition to rehab and wouldn't be a "panacea" that could be administered to anyone. It is meant for recovering addicts "who are off (cocaine) and want to stay that way," he told AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Scientists in Brazil have developed a new treatment for crack, and cocaine: a vaccine. The drug will work in an innovative way, by depriving users of the "high".

Scientists in Brazil have developed a new treatment for crack, and cocaine: a vaccine. The drug will work in an innovative way, by depriving users of the "high". It is called "Calixcoca," and here's everything you need to know about this vaccine for cocaine. How Calixcoca works The vaccine, as per an AFP report, triggers an immune response, which blocks the high from cocaine and its derivatives and stops it from reaching the brain. As per the report, the immune response trigger will make a patient's body produce antibodies that bind cocaine molecules to the bloodstream. The enlarged molecules will be rendered too large to pass into the brain's "reward centre" or the mesolimbic system that is stimulated by cocaine to produce dopamine — the pleasure-inducing reward chemical. Also read | Will Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change Once vaccinated, the drug will potentially help people break the cycle of addiction. Basically, despite consuming the drug, they won't get the high they're seeking. Last week the project won 500,000 euros ($530,000) — the top prize at the Euro Health Innovation Awards for Latin American medicine. Does it actually work? Scientists have tested the drug on animals, and it has shown promising results, producing significant levels of antibodies against cocaine. Side effects were few and furthermore, the vaccine was found to help protect rat foetuses against cocaine. This, as per the scientists behind the innovative drug, can help protect the unborn babies of pregnant addicts. After promising results in animals, the vaccine is now set to enter the next stage of trials on humans. Why did no one think of a vaccine for cocaine earlier? They did. In the United States, which, as per the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, happens to be the world's top consumer, similar studies were carried out. However, when clinical trials didn't show sufficient results, these studies were stalled, said psychiatrist Frederico Garcia, coordinator of the team that developed the treatment at the Federal University of Minas Gerais. Also read | NASA readies to launch Roman telescope for humanity's farthest-ever peek into Milky Way galaxy As per Garcia, "There's no specific registered treatment for cocaine and crack addiction. We currently use a combination of psychological counselling, social assistance and rehabilitation, when necessary." He further warned that the drug would be a supplementary treatment in addition to rehab and wouldn't be a "panacea" that could be administered to anyone. It is meant for recovering addicts "who are off (cocaine) and want to stay that way," he told AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists develop a vaccine for cocaine. Here's how it works

Hurricane Otis hit the beach resort of Mexico's Acapulco early on Wednesday. The storm, which happens to be one of the strongest storms ever to hit Mexico's Pacific Coast, smashed buildings and vital infrastructure, leaving the city disconnected and without power. It&nbsp;claimed the lives of at least 27 people.

<h2>The destruction wrought massive destruction</h2>

In the southern state of Guerrero the category 5 storm, Otis, as per videos and photos on social media, wrought widespread destruction, wrecking hotels, ripping open walls and ceilings, shattering windows, and leaving cars partly submerged in floodwaters.

Videos from Acapulco show debris strewn around lobbies, patios, streets and hotel balconies, and remnants of mangled trees littering the city's downtown area.&nbsp;

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A más de 20 horas del impacto de <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Otis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Otis</a>: 
 
-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Acapulco?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Acapulco</a> sigue incomunicado 
-Aún no hay luz al 100% 
-El aeropuerto está cerrado 
-Autopista del Sol, abierta solo para vehículos oficiales 
-No hemos visto a la gobernadora 
-La alcaldesa del Puerto no ha dado la cara <a href="https://t.co/b3NZZtZ0sV">pic.twitter.com/b3NZZtZ0sV</a>
— Manuel Lopez San Martin (@MLopezSanMartin) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLopezSanMartin/status/1717383357233758657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Whoahhh! Jeeeze!! This video really shows how bad the situation is in Acapulco 😭💔 
 
📹 Jorge Martíne<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HurricaneOtis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HurricaneOtis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HurracanOtis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HurracanOtis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Otis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Otis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Acapulco?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Acapulco</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mexico?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mexico</a> <a href="https://t.co/XboA3EYoCM">pic.twitter.com/XboA3EYoCM</a>
— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) <a href="https://twitter.com/volcaholic1/status/1717286069924671618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/hurricane-otis-mexicos-most-powerful-storm-makes-landfall-near-acapulco-on-pacific-coast-651094">Hurricane Otis: Mexico's most powerful storm ever makes landfall near Acapulco resort</a>

Furthermore, downed telecommunication lines&nbsp;and damage to infrastructure left the city's residents disconnected from the outside world.&nbsp;

The power loss also led to the closure of the city's airport. Furthermore, as per the government, the airport suffered significant damage — with storm Otis smashing the control tower's windows.

While there were no immediate reports of fatalities, as per a Reuters report, this could be because&nbsp;power outages have made it hard for officials to assess the extent of the destruction.

Watch |&nbsp;Hurricane Otis slams Mexican coast as a category 5 storm

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Some officials have reportedly expressed concern that there would likely have been some loss of life.

<h2>President lends support</h2>

As per Reuters, Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador tried to reach Acapulco by car to lend his support. However, he was held up due to road closures caused by the storm.

Otis roared into the coast with winds of 165 miles per hour (266 kph), reaching the shore as a Category 5 storm - the strongest level on the five-step Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale. However, it quickly weakened to a Category 4 storm.

It further lost its power as it moved inland, reducing to a tropical storm and finally dissipating over southern Mexico mountains. As per Reuters, the&nbsp;main highway connecting Acapulco to Mexico City will not be fully open until Thursday. The nation has mobilised the military&nbsp;to help clear up the mess left behind by Otis.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hurricane Otis hit the beach resort of Mexico's Acapulco early on Wednesday. The storm, which happens to be one of the strongest storms ever to hit Mexico's Pacific Coast, smashed buildings and vital infrastructure, leaving the city disconnected and without power.

Hurricane Otis hit the beach resort of Mexico's Acapulco early on Wednesday. The storm, which happens to be one of the strongest storms ever to hit Mexico's Pacific Coast, smashed buildings and vital infrastructure, leaving the city disconnected and without power. It claimed the lives of at least 27 people. The destruction wrought massive destruction In the southern state of Guerrero the category 5 storm, Otis, as per videos and photos on social media, wrought widespread destruction, wrecking hotels, ripping open walls and ceilings, shattering windows, and leaving cars partly submerged in floodwaters. Videos from Acapulco show debris strewn around lobbies, patios, streets and hotel balconies, and remnants of mangled trees littering the city's downtown area. A más de 20 horas del impacto de #Otis: -#Acapulco sigue incomunicado -Aún no hay luz al 100% -El aeropuerto está cerrado -Autopista del Sol, abierta solo para vehículos oficiales -No hemos visto a la gobernadora -La alcaldesa del Puerto no ha dado la cara pic.twitter.com/b3NZZtZ0sV — Manuel Lopez San Martin (@MLopezSanMartin) October 26, 2023 × Whoahhh! Jeeeze!! This video really shows how bad the situation is in Acapulco 😭💔 📹 Jorge Martíne#HurricaneOtis #HurracanOtis #Otis #Acapulco #Mexico pic.twitter.com/XboA3EYoCM — Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) October 25, 2023 × Also read | Hurricane Otis: Mexico's most powerful storm ever makes landfall near Acapulco resort Furthermore, downed telecommunication lines and damage to infrastructure left the city's residents disconnected from the outside world. The power loss also led to the closure of the city's airport. Furthermore, as per the government, the airport suffered significant damage — with storm Otis smashing the control tower's windows. While there were no immediate reports of fatalities, as per a Reuters report, this could be because power outages have made it hard for officials to assess the extent of the destruction. Watch | Hurricane Otis slams Mexican coast as a category 5 storm Some officials have reportedly expressed concern that there would likely have been some loss of life. President lends support As per Reuters, Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador tried to reach Acapulco by car to lend his support. However, he was held up due to road closures caused by the storm. Otis roared into the coast with winds of 165 miles per hour (266 kph), reaching the shore as a Category 5 storm - the strongest level on the five-step Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale. However, it quickly weakened to a Category 4 storm. It further lost its power as it moved inland, reducing to a tropical storm and finally dissipating over southern Mexico mountains. As per Reuters, the main highway connecting Acapulco to Mexico City will not be fully open until Thursday. The nation has mobilised the military to help clear up the mess left behind by Otis. (With inputs from agencies)

Category 5 Hurricane Otis roars into Mexico, causing widespread destruction

NASA is gearing up to launch its most ambitious alien world exploration ever: another ocean world. The US space agency in 2027 will launch its only mission to explore such a world.&nbsp;

Using NASA's Dragonfly rotorcraft lander, the mission will explore Saturn's moon Titan "with its dense atmosphere and low gravity," which as per the space agency is "a great place to fly." Here's all you need to know about the upcoming NASA mission to Luna Saturni, or&nbsp;"moon of Saturn".

<h2>Dragonfly</h2>

NASA's Dragonfly is a nuclear-powered, car-sized drone that is "designed to investigate the complex chemistry that is the precursor to life."

The mission, which is expected to last for nearly three years, will study how organic compounds formed, and if Saturn's moon currently has or ever had life.

It will be equipped with cameras, sensors and samplers that will examine Titan's dense, nitrogen-rich atmosphere, which is known to contain organic material that scientists believe may have come in contact with liquid water beneath its organic-rich, icy surface.

Dragonfly is scheduled to launch around 2027, and it is expected to reach Titan by the mid-2030s.&nbsp;

<h2>Will it be able to bear Titan's unique atmosphere?</h2>

To test Dragonfly, mission engineers have already conducted two test campaigns in NASA Langley’s 14-by-22-foot Subsonic Tunnel, and two in the 16-foot Transonic Dynamics Tunnel (TDT).&nbsp;

As per Ken Hibbard, Dragonfly mission systems engineer at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), "All of these tests feed into our Dragonfly Titan simulations and performance predictions".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-curiosity-rover-finds-evidence-mars-was-once-a-planet-of-rivers-651444">Life on Mars? Curiosity rover discovers that it was once a 'planet of rivers'</a>

"With Dragonfly, we're turning science fiction into exploration fact," said Hibbard, as per a statement on the NASA website.

He added that "the mission is coming together piece by piece, and we're excited for every next step toward sending this revolutionary rotorcraft across the skies and surface of Titan."

They've been conducting test campaigns at the NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. Researchers have made attempts to assess the vehicle's aerodynamic performance in harsh, unique conditions anticipating what Dragonfly will have to face during the various stages of the mission.

Recently, in one of its latest tests, the team behind Dragonfly set up a half-scale lander model of the spacecraft. This was used to test the space vehicle's descent once it arrives on Titan and its flight over the surface.

"We tested conditions across the expected flight envelope at a variety of wind speeds, rotor speeds and flight angles to assess the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle," test lead Bernadine Juliano of the APL said in a statement on NASA's website.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-a-vaccine-for-cocaine-heres-how-it-works-651343">Scientists develop a vaccine for cocaine. Here's how it works</a>

"We completed more than 700 total runs, encompassing over 4,000 individual data points. All test objectives were successfully accomplished, and the data will help increase confidence in our simulation models on Earth before extrapolating to Titan conditions," Juliano said.

<h2>Why is NASA sending Dragonfly to Saturn's moon?</h2>

Titan is the only moon in our solar system that has a thick atmosphere, about four times as dense as Earth's. A celestial body's atmosphere is very important. For example, on Earth it protects us from the Sun's radiation. It also helps maintain and circulate heat and distribute gases that nourish and sustain life.

What's more? Titan's atmosphere is similar to Earth's. While our planet's atmosphere has 78 per cent nitrogen, Titan's is mainly made of nitrogen — about 95 per cent, along with five per cent methane. However, a notable difference is that while Earth's atmosphere has 21 per cent oxygen, Saturn's moon has none.

As per NASA, it only takes methane and nitrogen to "unleash a complex web of organic chemistry that makes Titan unique and interesting to scientists."

Given that microorganisms can survive the most extreme environments imaginable, scientists are yet to rule out the existence of exotic life forms that may survive the liquid methane environment.

Additionally, Titan's terrain as we know it is "eerily" similar to our planet Earth's. However, on closer inspection, "every familiar feature has an exotic trait".

The similarities don't end there. As per NASA, Titan is carved by huge flowing rivers and lakes that, instead of water, hold methane.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-say-a-surprise-layer-of-molten-rock-envelops-marss-liquid-metal-core-651517">Researchers say a surprise layer of molten rock envelops Mars' liquid-metal core</a>

Furthermore, it has rocks that look like ours but are made of water ice that stays frozen because of the celestial body's cold weather.

Previously, using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), a radio telescope observatory in Chile, scientists found C3H2, or cyclopropenylidene in Titan's atmosphere. This carbon-based molecule that has never been identified in any other atmosphere. Scientists believe that the find may be a precursor to more complex compounds that could form or feed possible life on Saturn's moon.

All these things point to the probability that Titan may hold fascinating secrets about alien life forms.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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NASA is gearing up to launch its most ambitious alien world exploration ever: another ocean world. The US space agency in 2027 will launch its only mission to explore such a world.

NASA is gearing up to launch its most ambitious alien world exploration ever: another ocean world. The US space agency in 2027 will launch its only mission to explore such a world. Using NASA's Dragonfly rotorcraft lander, the mission will explore Saturn's moon Titan "with its dense atmosphere and low gravity," which as per the space agency is "a great place to fly." Here's all you need to know about the upcoming NASA mission to Luna Saturni, or "moon of Saturn". Dragonfly NASA's Dragonfly is a nuclear-powered, car-sized drone that is "designed to investigate the complex chemistry that is the precursor to life." The mission, which is expected to last for nearly three years, will study how organic compounds formed, and if Saturn's moon currently has or ever had life. It will be equipped with cameras, sensors and samplers that will examine Titan's dense, nitrogen-rich atmosphere, which is known to contain organic material that scientists believe may have come in contact with liquid water beneath its organic-rich, icy surface. Dragonfly is scheduled to launch around 2027, and it is expected to reach Titan by the mid-2030s. Will it be able to bear Titan's unique atmosphere? To test Dragonfly, mission engineers have already conducted two test campaigns in NASA Langley’s 14-by-22-foot Subsonic Tunnel, and two in the 16-foot Transonic Dynamics Tunnel (TDT). As per Ken Hibbard, Dragonfly mission systems engineer at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), "All of these tests feed into our Dragonfly Titan simulations and performance predictions". Also read | Life on Mars? Curiosity rover discovers that it was once a 'planet of rivers' "With Dragonfly, we're turning science fiction into exploration fact," said Hibbard, as per a statement on the NASA website. He added that "the mission is coming together piece by piece, and we're excited for every next step toward sending this revolutionary rotorcraft across the skies and surface of Titan." They've been conducting test campaigns at the NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. Researchers have made attempts to assess the vehicle's aerodynamic performance in harsh, unique conditions anticipating what Dragonfly will have to face during the various stages of the mission. Recently, in one of its latest tests, the team behind Dragonfly set up a half-scale lander model of the spacecraft. This was used to test the space vehicle's descent once it arrives on Titan and its flight over the surface. "We tested conditions across the expected flight envelope at a variety of wind speeds, rotor speeds and flight angles to assess the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle," test lead Bernadine Juliano of the APL said in a statement on NASA's website. Also read | Scientists develop a vaccine for cocaine. Here's how it works "We completed more than 700 total runs, encompassing over 4,000 individual data points. All test objectives were successfully accomplished, and the data will help increase confidence in our simulation models on Earth before extrapolating to Titan conditions," Juliano said. Why is NASA sending Dragonfly to Saturn's moon? Titan is the only moon in our solar system that has a thick atmosphere, about four times as dense as Earth's. A celestial body's atmosphere is very important. For example, on Earth it protects us from the Sun's radiation. It also helps maintain and circulate heat and distribute gases that nourish and sustain life. What's more? Titan's atmosphere is similar to Earth's. While our planet's atmosphere has 78 per cent nitrogen, Titan's is mainly made of nitrogen — about 95 per cent, along with five per cent methane. However, a notable difference is that while Earth's atmosphere has 21 per cent oxygen, Saturn's moon has none. As per NASA, it only takes methane and nitrogen to "unleash a complex web of organic chemistry that makes Titan unique and interesting to scientists." Given that microorganisms can survive the most extreme environments imaginable, scientists are yet to rule out the existence of exotic life forms that may survive the liquid methane environment. Additionally, Titan's terrain as we know it is "eerily" similar to our planet Earth's. However, on closer inspection, "every familiar feature has an exotic trait". The similarities don't end there. As per NASA, Titan is carved by huge flowing rivers and lakes that, instead of water, hold methane. Also read | Researchers say a surprise layer of molten rock envelops Mars' liquid-metal core Furthermore, it has rocks that look like ours but are made of water ice that stays frozen because of the celestial body's cold weather. Previously, using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), a radio telescope observatory in Chile, scientists found C3H2, or cyclopropenylidene in Titan's atmosphere. This carbon-based molecule that has never been identified in any other atmosphere. Scientists believe that the find may be a precursor to more complex compounds that could form or feed possible life on Saturn's moon. All these things point to the probability that Titan may hold fascinating secrets about alien life forms. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: NASA to send 'nuclear-powered' Dragonfly to Saturn's moon Titan. Here's all you need to know

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has found more evidence that points towards the existence of life on Mars… once upon a time.&nbsp;

A team of researchers examining data collected by NASA's curiosity has deduced that the planet in ancient times had a huge network of rivers flowing with life-giving water. They have published their findings&nbsp;in Geophysical Research Letters.

<h2>'Planet of rivers'</h2>

"We're finding evidence that Mars was likely a planet of rivers," said the research's lead author, Benjamin Cardenas, a geoscientist at Penn State University.

Cardenas and his team reached this conclusion after analysing a combination of images from the Curiosity rover, scans of sedimentary rock beneath the Gulf of Mexico on Earth and several computer simulations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-a-vaccine-for-cocaine-heres-how-it-works-651343">Scientists develop a vaccine for cocaine. Here's how it works</a>

Using these, they identified the ancient, eroded remnants of rivers in many Mars craters.

Curiosity rover identified specific landforms called bench-and-nose features; here steep and shallow slopes are called 'benches,' while shortened ridges are called 'noses'.&nbsp;

They form when sedimentary material laid down in channels by rivers is subsequently eroded by prevailing winds. These landforms suggest that rivers were more widespread than thought earlier.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is this important?</h2>

On our planet Earth, rivers are an indispensable source of chemical, nutrient and sediment cycles, all of which are indispensable for life. This fresh discovery provides further proof of ancient rivers and could help in humanity's&nbsp;search for signs of life on the red planet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-perseverance-rover-captures-footage-of-martian-dust-devil-642359">A two-kilometre-tall 'dust devil' has been caught on camera, but not on Earth</a>

As Cardenas puts it: "Our research indicates that Mars could have had far more rivers than previously believed, which certainly paints a more optimistic view of ancient life on Mars."

"It offers a vision of Mars, where most of the planet once had the right condition for life," he remarked.&nbsp;

<h2>Is the knowledge of Mars rivers new?</h2>

No, it isn't. We have known about Mars' rivers since Mariner 9, the first spacecraft to orbit the red planet, sent back images which were clicked back in 1971. The images showed dried-up river channels and floodplains on Mars's surface.

Mars orbiters and rovers have also identified ridges that were probably formed by sediment in river channels billions of years ago.

Multiple Mars rovers have also found mineralogical evidence, including sulfur-containing compounds like jarosite that form in water.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has found more evidence that points towards the existence of life on Mars… once upon a time. A team of researchers examining data collected by NASA's curiosity has deduced that the planet in ancient times had a huge network of rivers flowing with life-giving water.

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has found more evidence that points towards the existence of life on Mars… once upon a time. A team of researchers examining data collected by NASA's curiosity has deduced that the planet in ancient times had a huge network of rivers flowing with life-giving water. They have published their findings in Geophysical Research Letters. 'Planet of rivers' "We're finding evidence that Mars was likely a planet of rivers," said the research's lead author, Benjamin Cardenas, a geoscientist at Penn State University. Cardenas and his team reached this conclusion after analysing a combination of images from the Curiosity rover, scans of sedimentary rock beneath the Gulf of Mexico on Earth and several computer simulations. Also read | Scientists develop a vaccine for cocaine. Here's how it works Using these, they identified the ancient, eroded remnants of rivers in many Mars craters. Curiosity rover identified specific landforms called bench-and-nose features; here steep and shallow slopes are called 'benches,' while shortened ridges are called 'noses'. They form when sedimentary material laid down in channels by rivers is subsequently eroded by prevailing winds. These landforms suggest that rivers were more widespread than thought earlier. Why is this important? On our planet Earth, rivers are an indispensable source of chemical, nutrient and sediment cycles, all of which are indispensable for life. This fresh discovery provides further proof of ancient rivers and could help in humanity's search for signs of life on the red planet. Also read | A two-kilometre-tall 'dust devil' has been caught on camera, but not on Earth As Cardenas puts it: "Our research indicates that Mars could have had far more rivers than previously believed, which certainly paints a more optimistic view of ancient life on Mars." "It offers a vision of Mars, where most of the planet once had the right condition for life," he remarked. Is the knowledge of Mars rivers new? No, it isn't. We have known about Mars' rivers since Mariner 9, the first spacecraft to orbit the red planet, sent back images which were clicked back in 1971. The images showed dried-up river channels and floodplains on Mars's surface. Mars orbiters and rovers have also identified ridges that were probably formed by sediment in river channels billions of years ago. Multiple Mars rovers have also found mineralogical evidence, including sulfur-containing compounds like jarosite that form in water. (With inputs from agencies)

Life on Mars? Curiosity rover discovers that it was once a 'planet of rivers'

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

The mother of the six-year-old Muslim boy, who last week became the unfortunate victim of a hate crime in Illinois, United States,&nbsp;has issued her first statement since the tragic slaying.

Hanan Shaheen, the mother of Palestinian boy Wadea Al-Fayoume has urged the public to "pray for peace".

<h2>Mother released from hospital</h2>

The 36-year-old woman has been released from the hospital, where she was receiving treatment for the many wounds she had suffered in the attack. Her son was stabbed 26 times, while as per the sheriff's office, she herself suffered a dozen wounds.

As per the head of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the US' largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organisation, Shaheen when asked if she had anything to convey to the public said: "Just... pray for peace".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mom-im-fine-family-reveal-6-year-old-hate-crime-victims-heartbreaking-last-words-647816">'Mom, I'm fine': 6-year-old Muslim boy's heartbreaking last words before dying in hate crime</a>

CAIR Executive Director Ahmed Rehab, as per ABC News, also said that when talking about her son, the grieving mother said, "He was my best friend".

"We spent most of our time together listening to her recounting stories of how smart and funny her boy was, and how he cared for the planet and always liked to join her in prayer," he added.

<h2>'An angel on Earth'</h2>

Rehab in a statement said that the mother of the slain boy is focusing on her "physical and mental recuperation" and that she is recovering well from her injuries.

"Despite the painful loss and the trauma she experienced that morning, her spirit is strong, and she is finding peace and answers in her faith in God," said the CAIR-Chicago Executive Director.

"She said that she accepts that God chose them for this test — and that she finds solace in 'remembering Wadea as an angel on earth, and knowing that he is now an angel in heaven.'"

<h2>The 'murderer'&nbsp;</h2>

The man behind the senseless attack has been identified as 71-year-old Joseph Czuba, a US Air Force veteran.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hate-crime-in-us-man-stabs-6-year-old-muslim-child-over-ongoing-israel-hamas-war-tensions-647335">Hate crime in US: Man stabs to death 6-year-old Muslim child over ongoing Israel-Hamas war</a>

He has been charged with first-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon along with two counts of committing a hate crime.

<h2>The attack and the motive</h2>

As per the police, the little boy was attacked because he was Muslim.&nbsp;

In a court filing, Assistant State's Attorney Michael Fitzgerald alleged that Czuba, who was the landlord to the Muslim family, was angry at the little boy's mother "for what was going on in Jerusalem."

"She responded to him, 'Let's pray for peace,'" wrote the prosecutors.&nbsp;

"Czuba then attacked her with a knife," they added.

They claim that the landlord grew paranoid about the presence of the Palestinian-American family in his house.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised The mother of the six-year-old Muslim boy, who last week became the unfortunate victim of a hate crime in Illinois, United States, has issued her first statement since the tragic slaying.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised The mother of the six-year-old Muslim boy, who last week became the unfortunate victim of a hate crime in Illinois, United States, has issued her first statement since the tragic slaying. Hanan Shaheen, the mother of Palestinian boy Wadea Al-Fayoume has urged the public to "pray for peace". Mother released from hospital The 36-year-old woman has been released from the hospital, where she was receiving treatment for the many wounds she had suffered in the attack. Her son was stabbed 26 times, while as per the sheriff's office, she herself suffered a dozen wounds. As per the head of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the US' largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organisation, Shaheen when asked if she had anything to convey to the public said: "Just... pray for peace". Also read | 'Mom, I'm fine': 6-year-old Muslim boy's heartbreaking last words before dying in hate crime CAIR Executive Director Ahmed Rehab, as per ABC News, also said that when talking about her son, the grieving mother said, "He was my best friend". "We spent most of our time together listening to her recounting stories of how smart and funny her boy was, and how he cared for the planet and always liked to join her in prayer," he added. 'An angel on Earth' Rehab in a statement said that the mother of the slain boy is focusing on her "physical and mental recuperation" and that she is recovering well from her injuries. "Despite the painful loss and the trauma she experienced that morning, her spirit is strong, and she is finding peace and answers in her faith in God," said the CAIR-Chicago Executive Director. "She said that she accepts that God chose them for this test — and that she finds solace in 'remembering Wadea as an angel on earth, and knowing that he is now an angel in heaven.'" The 'murderer' The man behind the senseless attack has been identified as 71-year-old Joseph Czuba, a US Air Force veteran. Also read | Hate crime in US: Man stabs to death 6-year-old Muslim child over ongoing Israel-Hamas war He has been charged with first-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon along with two counts of committing a hate crime. The attack and the motive As per the police, the little boy was attacked because he was Muslim. In a court filing, Assistant State's Attorney Michael Fitzgerald alleged that Czuba, who was the landlord to the Muslim family, was angry at the little boy's mother "for what was going on in Jerusalem." "She responded to him, 'Let's pray for peace,'" wrote the prosecutors. "Czuba then attacked her with a knife," they added. They claim that the landlord grew paranoid about the presence of the Palestinian-American family in his house. (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.

Israel vs Hamas | Mother of 6-year-old hate crime victim asks world to 'pray for peace'

Fidias, a popular YouTuber with around 2.4 million subscribers, on Tuesday issued an apology after a video of him free-riding around Japan, along with three other people, went viral, drawing criticism from people and authorities alike.

His video, as per AFP, had become the latest example of "fame-seeking foreigners riling locals."

<h2>'Not our goal'</h2>

On Tuesday, the YouTuber known by his username Fidias posted an apology on his channel.&nbsp;

He said: "hello beautiful people, I apologize to the Japanese people if we made them feel bad, that was not our goal ! From now on, I am going to be make more research to the cultures we go to and try to prevent this from happening again."

Over the weekend, the YouTuber posted a video of him and his three companions riding trains and buses around Japan. Sometimes, they did so without paying.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/around-1000-cats-rescued-from-slaughter-in-china-were-being-smuggled-for-illicit-fake-pork-lamb-trade-651040">Around 1,000 cats rescued from slaughter in China; were being smuggled for illicit fake 'pork, lamb' trade</a>

In one instance, he can be seen hiding in the train toilet, pretending to be ill, to escape the ticket checker.

In another clip, he boasts of scoring a free "five-star Japanese buffet" that too "without getting caught and without any problem."

Other parts of the video show them begging locals for money to pay for tickets. AFP has identified one of his companions as another YouTuber called Night Scape, who has 1.7 million followers.

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Foreign YouTuber group attempts to travel across Japan without paying. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JAPANEWS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JAPANEWS</a> They ride buses and trains without paying and in their latest video, they’re seen eating at a hotel food buffet without payment 
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— 🌐JapaNews🌐 (@dascrazyjapan) <a href="https://twitter.com/dascrazyjapan/status/1716295540282143026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Japanese angry about 'another strange, annoying YouTuber from abroad'</h2>

On social media, Japanese citizens slammed the YouTubers for their antics, calling them strange and annoying YouTubers from abroad.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-quashes-law-mandating-sterlisation-surgery-for-gender-change-651042">Japan Supreme Court quashes law mandating sterilisation surgery for gender change</a>

"Another strange, annoying YouTuber from abroad emerged. In addition to this guy, Fidias, the three others should be arrested."

Another user expressed surprise that the comment section of Fidias' video was "full of applause," and said that the police "should arrest him to prevent copycat crimes from happening."

<h2>Train operator investigates incident</h2>

Talking to AFP, Regional train operator JR Kyushu said it was studying the video and that they are yet to decide whether police should be involved in the incident.

"We are aware of the case and investigating facts around it."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Fidias, a popular YouTuber with around 2.4 million subscribers, on Tuesday issued an apology after a video of him free-riding around Japan, along with three other people, went viral, drawing criticism from people and authorities alike.

Fidias, a popular YouTuber with around 2.4 million subscribers, on Tuesday issued an apology after a video of him free-riding around Japan, along with three other people, went viral, drawing criticism from people and authorities alike. His video, as per AFP, had become the latest example of "fame-seeking foreigners riling locals." 'Not our goal' On Tuesday, the YouTuber known by his username Fidias posted an apology on his channel. He said: "hello beautiful people, I apologize to the Japanese people if we made them feel bad, that was not our goal ! From now on, I am going to be make more research to the cultures we go to and try to prevent this from happening again." Over the weekend, the YouTuber posted a video of him and his three companions riding trains and buses around Japan. Sometimes, they did so without paying. Also read | Around 1,000 cats rescued from slaughter in China; were being smuggled for illicit fake 'pork, lamb' trade In one instance, he can be seen hiding in the train toilet, pretending to be ill, to escape the ticket checker. In another clip, he boasts of scoring a free "five-star Japanese buffet" that too "without getting caught and without any problem." Other parts of the video show them begging locals for money to pay for tickets. AFP has identified one of his companions as another YouTuber called Night Scape, who has 1.7 million followers. Foreign YouTuber group attempts to travel across Japan without paying. #JAPANEWS They ride buses and trains without paying and in their latest video, they’re seen eating at a hotel food buffet without payment pic.twitter.com/K3AJBkXvCw — 🌐JapaNews🌐 (@dascrazyjapan) October 23, 2023 × Japanese angry about 'another strange, annoying YouTuber from abroad' On social media, Japanese citizens slammed the YouTubers for their antics, calling them strange and annoying YouTubers from abroad. Also read | Japan Supreme Court quashes law mandating sterilisation surgery for gender change "Another strange, annoying YouTuber from abroad emerged. In addition to this guy, Fidias, the three others should be arrested." Another user expressed surprise that the comment section of Fidias' video was "full of applause," and said that the police "should arrest him to prevent copycat crimes from happening." Train operator investigates incident Talking to AFP, Regional train operator JR Kyushu said it was studying the video and that they are yet to decide whether police should be involved in the incident. "We are aware of the case and investigating facts around it." (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.

YouTuber Fidias apologises for free-riding on Japan trains after online outrage, probe

Authorities in China have rescued around 1,000 cats from being slaughtered. The felines, as per a state-affiliated media, were part of an illicit trade ring that sells the animal's meat as pork or mutton.

The bust, which comes just months after a rat head was found in food at a college, has sparked fresh concerns about China's food safety and animal rights.

<h2>The rescue</h2>

Police, as per CNN, were acting on a tip-off by animal activists when they rescued the cats&nbsp;earlier this month.

As per the Chinese state-affiliated news outlet, The Paper, officers from Zhangjiagang&nbsp;intercepted the vehicle being used to smuggle the cats.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/chinese-officials-identify-strange-thing-in-students-meal-as-rat-head-607069">Chinese officials identify strange thing in student’s meal as 'rat head'</a>

The report states that without the police intervention, the felines would likely have been slaughtered and shipped south under the guise of pork and lamb skewers and sausages.&nbsp;

<h2>What will happen to the cats now?</h2>

They've been sent to a shelter nearby, reported The Paper. It is not yet clear whether they're abducted pets or strays and if any arrests have been made.

Reportedly, animal activists first noticed numerous nailed wooden boxes carrying cats near a cemetery. After patrolling the streets for six days, they saw trucks begin ferrying them to the slaughterhouse. Upon seeing this, they called the police, asking for an intervention.&nbsp;

This plot would reportedly have fetched as much as $20,500. Talking to The Paper, one activist said that a pound of cat meat passed off as mutton or pork, can sell for around $4. One cat typically weighs around four to five pounds after processing.

<h2>Concerns raised</h2>

One activist who was part of the bust told the Chinese publication that it was not the first time and that she had previously stopped similar illicit operations in Guangdong.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evan-gershkovichs-family-asks-biden-to-prioritise-bringing-detained-us-journalist-home-from-russia-651009">Evan Gershkovich's family asks Biden to 'prioritise' bringing detained US journalist home from Russia</a>

The bust has raised concerns about animal rights and food safety in China. Many have taken to Chinese social media, calling for greater scrutiny by authorities.

One user pointed out, "Animals don't have rights and there is no guarantee for food safety."

"I hope the country can legislate an animal protection law soon," said another.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Authorities in China have rescued around 1,000 cats from being slaughtered. The felines, as per a state-affiliated media, were part of an illicit trade ring that sells the animal's meat as pork or mutton.

Authorities in China have rescued around 1,000 cats from being slaughtered. The felines, as per a state-affiliated media, were part of an illicit trade ring that sells the animal's meat as pork or mutton. The bust, which comes just months after a rat head was found in food at a college, has sparked fresh concerns about China's food safety and animal rights. The rescue Police, as per CNN, were acting on a tip-off by animal activists when they rescued the cats earlier this month. As per the Chinese state-affiliated news outlet, The Paper, officers from Zhangjiagang intercepted the vehicle being used to smuggle the cats. Also read | Chinese officials identify strange thing in student’s meal as 'rat head' The report states that without the police intervention, the felines would likely have been slaughtered and shipped south under the guise of pork and lamb skewers and sausages. What will happen to the cats now? They've been sent to a shelter nearby, reported The Paper. It is not yet clear whether they're abducted pets or strays and if any arrests have been made. Reportedly, animal activists first noticed numerous nailed wooden boxes carrying cats near a cemetery. After patrolling the streets for six days, they saw trucks begin ferrying them to the slaughterhouse. Upon seeing this, they called the police, asking for an intervention. This plot would reportedly have fetched as much as $20,500. Talking to The Paper, one activist said that a pound of cat meat passed off as mutton or pork, can sell for around $4. One cat typically weighs around four to five pounds after processing. Concerns raised One activist who was part of the bust told the Chinese publication that it was not the first time and that she had previously stopped similar illicit operations in Guangdong. Also read | Evan Gershkovich's family asks Biden to 'prioritise' bringing detained US journalist home from Russia The bust has raised concerns about animal rights and food safety in China. Many have taken to Chinese social media, calling for greater scrutiny by authorities. One user pointed out, "Animals don't have rights and there is no guarantee for food safety." "I hope the country can legislate an animal protection law soon," said another. (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.

Chinese trade ring selling cat meat disguised as 'pork, mutton' busted, 1,000 felines rescued

Two armed attacks on Monday left at least 16 people dead, including around a dozen police officers, in regions of Mexico plagued by violence related to drug trafficking, authorities said.

In the southern state of Guerrero, unidentified attackers targeted a security patrol in the municipality of Coyuca de Benitez, prosecutor Alejandro Hernandez said.

According to preliminary information, 11 members of the municipal police force were killed, he said, adding that the motive for the massacre was being investigated.

A senior state security official was travelling in the convoy when it was attacked, authorities said, without confirming media reports that he was murdered along with police bodyguards.

Security forces were later seen patrolling the area — where several lifeless bodies lay on the ground — as a police helicopter flew overhead.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-says-talking-to-saudi-about-rafale-fighter-sale-650482">France says talking to Saudi about Rafale fighter sale</a>

The second attack, in the neighbouring western state of Michoacan, left five people dead and two more injured, authorities said.

A group of gunmen attacked the brother of the mayor of the town of Tacambaro, according to the state prosecutor's office.

A restaurant worker and a member of the police force were among those killed, while the mayor's brother was wounded, it said.

In a video posted on social media, gunmen were seen opening fire before fleeing in several vehicles.

Mexico is plagued by cartel-related bloodshed that has seen more than 420,000 people murdered since the government deployed the military in its war on drugs in 2006.

Since then, the country's murder rate has tripled to 25 per 100,000 inhabitants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senator-bob-menendez-pleads-not-guilty-to-new-charge-of-acting-as-an-agent-of-egypt-650478">US Senator Bob Menendez pleads not guilty to new charge of acting as an agent of Egypt</a>

Mexico has also registered more than 110,000 disappearances since 1962, most attributed to criminal organizations.

Guerrero and Michoacan are among the country's most violent areas, due to confrontations between rival drug traffickers and security forces.

Although it is home to the famed coastal resort of Acapulco, Guerrero is one of Mexico's poorest states.

Violence — particularly targeting low-level officials — often escalates across the country in the run-up to elections. Presidential and parliamentary polls are set to be held next year.

Even so, experts said the latest wave of violence was particularly shocking.

"Guerrero has long seen one of Mexico's most complicated armed conflicts, but the current, pre-electoral levels of violence are extraordinary," Falko Ernst, an analyst at International Crisis Group, wrote on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter.

Since taking office in 2018, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has championed "hugs not bullets" strategy to tackle violent crime at its roots by fighting poverty and inequality with social programs, rather than with the army.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two armed attacks on Monday left at least 16 people dead, including around a dozen police officers, in regions of Mexico plagued by violence related to drug trafficking, authorities said.

Two armed attacks on Monday left at least 16 people dead, including around a dozen police officers, in regions of Mexico plagued by violence related to drug trafficking, authorities said. In the southern state of Guerrero, unidentified attackers targeted a security patrol in the municipality of Coyuca de Benitez, prosecutor Alejandro Hernandez said. According to preliminary information, 11 members of the municipal police force were killed, he said, adding that the motive for the massacre was being investigated. A senior state security official was travelling in the convoy when it was attacked, authorities said, without confirming media reports that he was murdered along with police bodyguards. Security forces were later seen patrolling the area — where several lifeless bodies lay on the ground — as a police helicopter flew overhead. Also read | France says talking to Saudi about Rafale fighter sale The second attack, in the neighbouring western state of Michoacan, left five people dead and two more injured, authorities said. A group of gunmen attacked the brother of the mayor of the town of Tacambaro, according to the state prosecutor's office. A restaurant worker and a member of the police force were among those killed, while the mayor's brother was wounded, it said. In a video posted on social media, gunmen were seen opening fire before fleeing in several vehicles. Mexico is plagued by cartel-related bloodshed that has seen more than 420,000 people murdered since the government deployed the military in its war on drugs in 2006. Since then, the country's murder rate has tripled to 25 per 100,000 inhabitants. Also read | US Senator Bob Menendez pleads not guilty to new charge of acting as an agent of Egypt Mexico has also registered more than 110,000 disappearances since 1962, most attributed to criminal organizations. Guerrero and Michoacan are among the country's most violent areas, due to confrontations between rival drug traffickers and security forces. Although it is home to the famed coastal resort of Acapulco, Guerrero is one of Mexico's poorest states. Violence — particularly targeting low-level officials — often escalates across the country in the run-up to elections. Presidential and parliamentary polls are set to be held next year. Even so, experts said the latest wave of violence was particularly shocking. "Guerrero has long seen one of Mexico's most complicated armed conflicts, but the current, pre-electoral levels of violence are extraordinary," Falko Ernst, an analyst at International Crisis Group, wrote on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter. Since taking office in 2018, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has championed "hugs not bullets" strategy to tackle violent crime at its roots by fighting poverty and inequality with social programs, rather than with the army. (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.

Armed attacks in Mexico leave 16 dead, including dozen police

Israel recently announced that it has seized cryptocurrency accounts linked to the Hamas terror&nbsp;group.&nbsp;The confiscation of these accounts, amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, has once again brought cryptocurrency's role in terror financing into the spotlight.&nbsp;

It has raised questions about how violent groups and designated terrorist organisations access money for their nefarious motives and actions, and how big a role crypto plays in it. Here's all you need to know about crypto's role in terror financing.

<h2>Cryptocurrency and illicit finance</h2>

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which is the global body responsible for tackling issues like money laundering and terror financing, has warned that crypto assets "risk becoming a safe haven for the financial transactions of criminals and terrorists".

One reason for this is the relatively low number of regulations cryptocurrency has compared to traditional finance. While some regions are in the process of introducing new rules for regulation, at the moment, digital currency enjoys more autonomy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-did-hamas-plan-to-use-chemical-weapons-on-israelis-what-are-these-dirty-weapons-650525">Explained: Did Hamas plan to use chemical weapons on Israelis? What are these 'dirty' weapons?</a>

<h2>What makes cryptocurrency an attractive finance option for illicit activities?</h2>

To send and receive cryptocurrency, a user just needs a crypto wallet, which can easily be set up without the many checks and balances one has to undergo for a regular bank account.&nbsp;

Furthermore, addresses, as per Reuters, are pseudonyms which are labelled only by a string of letters and numbers. This means that people can send and receive cryptocurrency without having to disclose their identity.

What's more is that the process of sending and receiving digital money is instantaneous, even across borders.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-tax-observatory-says-impose-2-tax-on-super-rich-to-combat-tax-evasion-bring-parity-650460">Impose 2% tax on super-rich to combat tax evasion, bring parity: EU Tax Observatory</a>

<h2>Is cryptocurrency untraceable?</h2>

Yes, to some extent, cryptocurrency is untraceable. As per Reuters, blockchains like Bitcoin and Ethereum maintain a permanent record of transactions.

So, it is possible to see the funds that were sent or received from a wallet. It is also possible to access information about the other wallets it has interacted with.

According to Cloudwards, pseudonyms can hide a person's identity, but they are not foolproof. It says that a smart search of a cryptocurrency's blockchain can uncover the real-world identities of the people behind the wallets.

Talking to CNET, Feng Hou, Maryville University's digital transformation chief, who works on implementing blockchain tech explained: "While there are certain ways that cryptocurrency does provide a level of anonymity, be aware that nobody today can claim a 100 per cent anonymity at this point."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/will-wikipedia-become-diipedia-elon-musk-offers-1-billion-for-nsfw-name-change-650212">Will Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change</a>

Crypto wallets have started asking customers for KYC (Know Your Customer) information, and they often record users' addresses etc.&nbsp;which can be tracked by the police.

However, crafty users can still use tools like crypto "mixers" or tumblers, which pool user cryptocurrencies and then send them to the recipient from that common pool. Some move funds to exchanges or other firms, which makes it difficult to distinguish between different funds.&nbsp;

<h2>Is cryptocurrency used for terror financing?</h2>

Yes, there have been multiple instances of crypto allegedly being used to finance terror activities.&nbsp;

Terror groups use many different methods to move money. This includes crypto, banks, shell companies, charities, informal financial networks and even plain hard cash.

However, as per experts, cryptocurrency is only a small part of terror financing.

As per a Bloomberg report from 2022, a couple of years ago, only about five per cent of terrorist attacks were believed to have cryptocurrency finance backing.&nbsp;However, as per a report citing a UN official, this number may have now increased to 20 per cent.

<h2>Illicit financing</h2>

Chainanalyis, an American blockchain analysis firm, says terror financing&nbsp;only accounts for a "small fraction of the less than one per cent of the entire crypto market occupied by illicit activity".

Other types of illicit finance activities include scams, ransomware, and theft.

In 2022, cryptocurrency-related crime hit a record $20.1 billion, which as per Chainanalysis is a lower-bound estimate. This, as per the analytic firm, excludes their use for other things like the payment of drugs, etc.

Another emerging cybercrime is cryptocurrency theft in online attacks. As per the United Nations, these are a significant source of funding for North Korea.

Cryptocurrency, as per John Moss, the head of the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (Austrac), is also an easy-to-use fundraiser, especially when used in combination with social media.

According to Austrac, there have been reports of Australians sending digital money to organised terror groups like al-Qaeda and ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and The Levant).

In August, a UN report noted that the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group has been using regional versions of cryptocurrency — like stablecoins. The 17th report of the Secretary-General on the threat posed by ISIL (Da'esh) to international peace and security also stated that the group is also relying on virtual assets for international funds transfers.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Israel recently announced that it has seized cryptocurrency accounts linked to the Hamas terror group. The confiscation of these accounts, amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, has once again brought cryptocurrency's role in terror financing into the spotlight.

Israel recently announced that it has seized cryptocurrency accounts linked to the Hamas terror group. The confiscation of these accounts, amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, has once again brought cryptocurrency's role in terror financing into the spotlight. It has raised questions about how violent groups and designated terrorist organisations access money for their nefarious motives and actions, and how big a role crypto plays in it. Here's all you need to know about crypto's role in terror financing. Cryptocurrency and illicit finance The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which is the global body responsible for tackling issues like money laundering and terror financing, has warned that crypto assets "risk becoming a safe haven for the financial transactions of criminals and terrorists". One reason for this is the relatively low number of regulations cryptocurrency has compared to traditional finance. While some regions are in the process of introducing new rules for regulation, at the moment, digital currency enjoys more autonomy. Also read | Explained: Did Hamas plan to use chemical weapons on Israelis? What are these 'dirty' weapons? What makes cryptocurrency an attractive finance option for illicit activities? To send and receive cryptocurrency, a user just needs a crypto wallet, which can easily be set up without the many checks and balances one has to undergo for a regular bank account. Furthermore, addresses, as per Reuters, are pseudonyms which are labelled only by a string of letters and numbers. This means that people can send and receive cryptocurrency without having to disclose their identity. What's more is that the process of sending and receiving digital money is instantaneous, even across borders. Also read | Impose 2% tax on super-rich to combat tax evasion, bring parity: EU Tax Observatory Is cryptocurrency untraceable? Yes, to some extent, cryptocurrency is untraceable. As per Reuters, blockchains like Bitcoin and Ethereum maintain a permanent record of transactions. So, it is possible to see the funds that were sent or received from a wallet. It is also possible to access information about the other wallets it has interacted with. According to Cloudwards, pseudonyms can hide a person's identity, but they are not foolproof. It says that a smart search of a cryptocurrency's blockchain can uncover the real-world identities of the people behind the wallets. Talking to CNET, Feng Hou, Maryville University's digital transformation chief, who works on implementing blockchain tech explained: "While there are certain ways that cryptocurrency does provide a level of anonymity, be aware that nobody today can claim a 100 per cent anonymity at this point." Also read | Will Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change Crypto wallets have started asking customers for KYC (Know Your Customer) information, and they often record users' addresses etc. which can be tracked by the police. However, crafty users can still use tools like crypto "mixers" or tumblers, which pool user cryptocurrencies and then send them to the recipient from that common pool. Some move funds to exchanges or other firms, which makes it difficult to distinguish between different funds. Is cryptocurrency used for terror financing? Yes, there have been multiple instances of crypto allegedly being used to finance terror activities. Terror groups use many different methods to move money. This includes crypto, banks, shell companies, charities, informal financial networks and even plain hard cash. However, as per experts, cryptocurrency is only a small part of terror financing. As per a Bloomberg report from 2022, a couple of years ago, only about five per cent of terrorist attacks were believed to have cryptocurrency finance backing. However, as per a report citing a UN official, this number may have now increased to 20 per cent. Illicit financing Chainanalyis, an American blockchain analysis firm, says terror financing only accounts for a "small fraction of the less than one per cent of the entire crypto market occupied by illicit activity". Other types of illicit finance activities include scams, ransomware, and theft. In 2022, cryptocurrency-related crime hit a record $20.1 billion, which as per Chainanalysis is a lower-bound estimate. This, as per the analytic firm, excludes their use for other things like the payment of drugs, etc. Another emerging cybercrime is cryptocurrency theft in online attacks. As per the United Nations, these are a significant source of funding for North Korea. Cryptocurrency, as per John Moss, the head of the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (Austrac), is also an easy-to-use fundraiser, especially when used in combination with social media. According to Austrac, there have been reports of Australians sending digital money to organised terror groups like al-Qaeda and ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and The Levant). In August, a UN report noted that the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group has been using regional versions of cryptocurrency — like stablecoins. The 17th report of the Secretary-General on the threat posed by ISIL (Da'esh) to international peace and security also stated that the group is also relying on virtual assets for international funds transfers. (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.

Explained | Cryptocurrency's role in terror financing comes into focus after Hamas attack on Israel

A massive police response was launched in Wisconsin, United States, amid reports of an active shooter situation at a middle school in the Germantown district on Monday (Oct&nbsp;23).

<h2>Shooter killed in crossfire</h2>

As per the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the shooting incident happened on Monday evening. Soon after, around 6:36 pm, the suspected shooter was shot down by the police. According to a statement by the police, the suspect died at the scene.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/humans-have-lost-control-no-amount-of-emission-cut-will-slow-down-melting-of-antarctica-ice-shelves-study-650530">Humans have 'lost control,' no amount of emission cut will slow down melting of Antarctica ice shelves: Study</a>

Citing an officer with the Germantown Police Department, the publication states that no injuries among the students have been reported.

<h2>How it unfolded</h2>

Police had initially responded to Kennedy Middle School after receiving a report of a man "acting erratically" in the school parking lot.

The man later managed to climb onto the roof of the school and was pursued by two officers on foot.&nbsp;

Officers, as per the report, returned fire after the suspect opened fire. In this crossfire, the suspect was shot and killed.

The incident triggered a large law enforcement response, and the school was put in lockdown by the Germantown School District.

In a statement released on Facebook, the Germantown School district informed parents that all the children were being transported by bus to nearby MacArthur Elementary. It advised parents to carry identification for pickup.

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An update posted later announced that Kennedy Middle School will stay closed on Tuesday (Oct&nbsp;24) and that the school continues to "work closely with the Germantown Police Department concerning the incident this evening at Kennedy Middle School."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iceland-pm-to-join-thousands-of-women-for-kvennafri-a-strike-for-gender-equality-650505">Iceland PM to join thousands of women for 'Kvennafrí', a strike for gender equality</a>

It added that "all students, families, and staff that were in the building are safe, accounted for, and have been reunited with their families and loved ones."

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As per reports, at the time of the incident, there were about 50 to 70 students in the school. Officers involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave, as is the standard protocol.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A massive police response was launched in Wisconsin, United States, amid reports of an active shooter situation at a middle school in the Germantown district on Monday (Oct 23).

A massive police response was launched in Wisconsin, United States, amid reports of an active shooter situation at a middle school in the Germantown district on Monday (Oct 23). Shooter killed in crossfire As per the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the shooting incident happened on Monday evening. Soon after, around 6:36 pm, the suspected shooter was shot down by the police. According to a statement by the police, the suspect died at the scene. Also read | Humans have 'lost control,' no amount of emission cut will slow down melting of Antarctica ice shelves: Study Citing an officer with the Germantown Police Department, the publication states that no injuries among the students have been reported. How it unfolded Police had initially responded to Kennedy Middle School after receiving a report of a man "acting erratically" in the school parking lot. The man later managed to climb onto the roof of the school and was pursued by two officers on foot. Officers, as per the report, returned fire after the suspect opened fire. In this crossfire, the suspect was shot and killed. The incident triggered a large law enforcement response, and the school was put in lockdown by the Germantown School District. In a statement released on Facebook, the Germantown School district informed parents that all the children were being transported by bus to nearby MacArthur Elementary. It advised parents to carry identification for pickup. × An update posted later announced that Kennedy Middle School will stay closed on Tuesday (Oct 24) and that the school continues to "work closely with the Germantown Police Department concerning the incident this evening at Kennedy Middle School." Also read | Iceland PM to join thousands of women for 'Kvennafrí', a strike for gender equality It added that "all students, families, and staff that were in the building are safe, accounted for, and have been reunited with their families and loved ones." × As per reports, at the time of the incident, there were about 50 to 70 students in the school. Officers involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave, as is the standard protocol. (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: Shooting incident at Germantown school; suspect shot down by police

Cyclonic Storm 'Hamoon,' as per the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) latest update, has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the Northwest Bay of Bengal.

<h2>An intense storm</h2>

As per IMD, Cyclone Hamoon over the Northwest and adjoining West-central Bay of Bengal moved north-eastwards with a speed of 18 kilometres per hour during the past six hours.

Following its six-hour movement, the cyclonic storm intensified into a severe cyclonic storm.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-remain-very-poor-with-aqi-at-306-stubble-burning-a-major-concern-650198">Delhi's air quality remains 'very poor' with AQI at 306; stubble burning a major concern</a>

At this point, around 2:30 am (local time), the cyclonic storm lay centred over the northwest Bay of Bengal, near latitude 19.3°N and longitude 88.4°E — about 210 kilometres east-southeast of Paradip (Odisha), 270 kilometres south-southeast of Digha (West Bengal) and 350 kilometre south-southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh), reports news agency ANI.

<h2>IMD predictions</h2>

As per the Indian Meteorological Department, Cyclonic storm Hamoon is very likely to move nearly north-northeast wards and should cross the Bangladesh coast between Khepupara and Chittagong around noon on October 25 as a Deep Depression.

<h2>Alert issued</h2>

In Odisha, on Monday, the Municipal Administration put all Urban Local Bodies (ULB) on alert in view of the formation of cyclonic storm 'Hamoon' in the Bay of Bengal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-remain-very-poor-with-aqi-at-306-stubble-burning-a-major-concern-650198">Delhi's air quality remains 'very poor' with AQI at 306; stubble burning a major concern</a>

Sangramjit Nayak, the Director of Municipal Administration in an official statement, issued a directive to all ULB Chiefs. He warned them about the impending danger that looms over the areas due to the formation of cyclonic storm 'Hamoon' in the Bay of Bengal and said that the cyclone will culminate in huge rainfall, wind, and inclement weather.&nbsp;

The Odisha government also instructed officials of different departments to be prepared for anything and asked them to evacuate people from sea shores and low-lying areas.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Cyclonic Storm 'Hamoon,' as per the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) latest update, has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the Northwest Bay of Bengal.

Cyclonic Storm 'Hamoon,' as per the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) latest update, has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the Northwest Bay of Bengal. An intense storm As per IMD, Cyclone Hamoon over the Northwest and adjoining West-central Bay of Bengal moved north-eastwards with a speed of 18 kilometres per hour during the past six hours. Following its six-hour movement, the cyclonic storm intensified into a severe cyclonic storm. Also read | Delhi's air quality remains 'very poor' with AQI at 306; stubble burning a major concern At this point, around 2:30 am (local time), the cyclonic storm lay centred over the northwest Bay of Bengal, near latitude 19.3°N and longitude 88.4°E — about 210 kilometres east-southeast of Paradip (Odisha), 270 kilometres south-southeast of Digha (West Bengal) and 350 kilometre south-southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh), reports news agency ANI. IMD predictions As per the Indian Meteorological Department, Cyclonic storm Hamoon is very likely to move nearly north-northeast wards and should cross the Bangladesh coast between Khepupara and Chittagong around noon on October 25 as a Deep Depression. Alert issued In Odisha, on Monday, the Municipal Administration put all Urban Local Bodies (ULB) on alert in view of the formation of cyclonic storm 'Hamoon' in the Bay of Bengal. Also read | Delhi's air quality remains 'very poor' with AQI at 306; stubble burning a major concern Sangramjit Nayak, the Director of Municipal Administration in an official statement, issued a directive to all ULB Chiefs. He warned them about the impending danger that looms over the areas due to the formation of cyclonic storm 'Hamoon' in the Bay of Bengal and said that the cyclone will culminate in huge rainfall, wind, and inclement weather. The Odisha government also instructed officials of different departments to be prepared for anything and asked them to evacuate people from sea shores and low-lying areas. (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.

Cyclone Hamoon intensifies into severe cyclonic storm over NW Bay of Bengal; wind speeds of 18km/hour

A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel.&nbsp;

Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne.

<h2>'End of the world'</h2>

Talking to BBC, the Sharabi family, residents of the UK, described the teenager as "full of life".

"Noiya was clever, sensitive, fun and full of life - her smile lit up the room like a beacon."

They acknowledged her academic prowess and linguistic abilities and said she "embraced every opportunity to help others, particularly those less fortunate than she, and was a gifted student and linguist."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-wont-hesitate-to-act-in-case-of-conflict-escalation-says-austin-650024">Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin</a>

"Most importantly, she was an amazing granddaughter, cousin and niece. We are heartbroken she has gone, but forever grateful she was here."

The two sisters have been missing since the October 7 massacre at the kibbutz. Their mother was confirmed dead earlier while&nbsp;their father was still missing.

Yahel, the younger sister, had already been confirmed dead the previous week. Other relatives of theirs have been kidnapped, reports BBC.

"For us, it is the end of the world. Noiya, Yahel and Lianne will always be in our hearts," said Raz Matalon, the sisters'&nbsp;uncle.

<h2>Extended family&nbsp;in shambles</h2>

Lianne, the girls' mother, had initially come to Israel as a volunteer on a kibbutz when she was 19.&nbsp;

Eventually, she made the country her permanent home. The family maintained a connection with relatives in the UK, visiting them at least once a year.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-will-make-its-lifes-mistake-if-it-starts-war-with-israel-netanyahu-650048">Hezbollah will make its life's mistake if it starts war with Israel: Netanyahu</a>

The Hamas attacks in southern Israel have claimed the lives of at least 10 British citizens. Furthermore, as per BBC, it is believed that one British citizen has been taken hostage and five others are missing.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel. Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne.

A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel. Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne. 'End of the world' Talking to BBC, the Sharabi family, residents of the UK, described the teenager as "full of life". "Noiya was clever, sensitive, fun and full of life - her smile lit up the room like a beacon." They acknowledged her academic prowess and linguistic abilities and said she "embraced every opportunity to help others, particularly those less fortunate than she, and was a gifted student and linguist." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin "Most importantly, she was an amazing granddaughter, cousin and niece. We are heartbroken she has gone, but forever grateful she was here." The two sisters have been missing since the October 7 massacre at the kibbutz. Their mother was confirmed dead earlier while their father was still missing. Yahel, the younger sister, had already been confirmed dead the previous week. Other relatives of theirs have been kidnapped, reports BBC. "For us, it is the end of the world. Noiya, Yahel and Lianne will always be in our hearts," said Raz Matalon, the sisters' uncle. Extended family in shambles Lianne, the girls' mother, had initially come to Israel as a volunteer on a kibbutz when she was 19. Eventually, she made the country her permanent home. The family maintained a connection with relatives in the UK, visiting them at least once a year. Also read | Hezbollah will make its life's mistake if it starts war with Israel: Netanyahu The Hamas attacks in southern Israel have claimed the lives of at least 10 British citizens. Furthermore, as per BBC, it is believed that one British citizen has been taken hostage and five others are missing. (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.

A family destroyed: UK girl Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in Hamas attack along with mom, sister

Elon Musk has, after Twitter, now seemingly set his sights on Wikipedia. The eccentric billionaire has offered everyone's go-to online encyclopedia a billion dollars for changing its name to something NSFW.

<h2>Terms and conditions apply</h2>

The Tesla CEO took to his social media platform X, formerly Twitter, and offered Wikipedia a generous donation of one billion dollars.&nbsp;However, the donation is anything but philanthropic. The money comes with terms and conditions.

Musk wrote on X that he "will give them a billion dollars if they change their name to Di**ipedia".

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I will give them a billion dollars if they change their name to Dickipedia <a href="https://t.co/wxoHQdRICy">https://t.co/wxoHQdRICy</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1716102436123783175?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Along with this, he re-shared a screenshot of a Wikipedia appeal for funds that read "Wikipedia is not for sale," in bold letters.

"Please add that to the [cow and poop emojis] on my wiki page," he said in a comment on his post, adding, "In the interests of accuracy."

<h2>Can Wikipedia change its name back?</h2>

One would think that's an easy billion. Wikipedia could get the money and change its name back, and predictably someone suggested this.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-announces-launch-of-new-premium-subscriptions-on-x-649123">Elon Musk announces launch of new premium subscriptions on X</a>

Ed Krassenstein, a US-based journalist, encouraged Wikipedia to make the switch and said: "Do it!"

"You can always change it back after you collect."

To this, Elon Musk replied and said: "One-year minimum. I mean, I’m a not fool lol."

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One year minimum. I mean, I’m a not fool lol.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1716103548096684208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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So, seems like if Wikipedia does take up Musk on his offer, the website will be stuck with the X-rated name for at least a year.

<h2>Why is Musk 'after' Wikipedia?</h2>

As per Complex, Musk's generous "donation" follows an earlier tweet where he slammed the Wikimedia Foundation for its appeals for donation. He said that so much money "certainly isn't needed to operate Wikipedia. You can literally fit a copy of the entire text on your phone!"&nbsp;

"So, what's the money for? Inquiring minds want to know...," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-may-take-x-out-of-europe-to-dodge-anti-fake-news-eu-regulation-report-648596">Elon Musk may take X out of Europe to dodge anti-fake news EU regulation: Report</a>

Musk and Wikipedia have a history. In May, Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales criticised Musk for giving into the Turkish government's demands and censoring posts on X (formerly Twitter) before the country's presidential election.

"What Wikipedia did: we stood strong for our principles and fought to the Supreme Court of Turkey and won. This is what it means to treat freedom of expression as a principle rather than a slogan," he had said, replying to Musk's post slamming Bloomberg columnist Matt Yglesias for posting about Musk's compliance with the Turkish government's censorship of opponents.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Elon Musk has, after Twitter, now seemingly set his sights on Wikipedia. The eccentric billionaire has offered everyone's go-to online encyclopedia a billion dollars for changing its name to something NSFW.

Elon Musk has, after Twitter, now seemingly set his sights on Wikipedia. The eccentric billionaire has offered everyone's go-to online encyclopedia a billion dollars for changing its name to something NSFW. Terms and conditions apply The Tesla CEO took to his social media platform X, formerly Twitter, and offered Wikipedia a generous donation of one billion dollars. However, the donation is anything but philanthropic. The money comes with terms and conditions. Musk wrote on X that he "will give them a billion dollars if they change their name to Di**ipedia". I will give them a billion dollars if they change their name to Dickipedia https://t.co/wxoHQdRICy — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 22, 2023 × Along with this, he re-shared a screenshot of a Wikipedia appeal for funds that read "Wikipedia is not for sale," in bold letters. "Please add that to the [cow and poop emojis] on my wiki page," he said in a comment on his post, adding, "In the interests of accuracy." Can Wikipedia change its name back? One would think that's an easy billion. Wikipedia could get the money and change its name back, and predictably someone suggested this. Also read | Elon Musk announces launch of new premium subscriptions on X Ed Krassenstein, a US-based journalist, encouraged Wikipedia to make the switch and said: "Do it!" "You can always change it back after you collect." To this, Elon Musk replied and said: "One-year minimum. I mean, I’m a not fool lol." One year minimum. I mean, I’m a not fool lol. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 22, 2023 × So, seems like if Wikipedia does take up Musk on his offer, the website will be stuck with the X-rated name for at least a year. Why is Musk 'after' Wikipedia? As per Complex, Musk's generous "donation" follows an earlier tweet where he slammed the Wikimedia Foundation for its appeals for donation. He said that so much money "certainly isn't needed to operate Wikipedia. You can literally fit a copy of the entire text on your phone!" "So, what's the money for? Inquiring minds want to know...," he added. Also read | Elon Musk may take X out of Europe to dodge anti-fake news EU regulation: Report Musk and Wikipedia have a history. In May, Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales criticised Musk for giving into the Turkish government's demands and censoring posts on X (formerly Twitter) before the country's presidential election. "What Wikipedia did: we stood strong for our principles and fought to the Supreme Court of Turkey and won. This is what it means to treat freedom of expression as a principle rather than a slogan," he had said, replying to Musk's post slamming Bloomberg columnist Matt Yglesias for posting about Musk's compliance with the Turkish government's censorship of opponents. (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 Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change

San Francisco police on Thursday released the first official details of the incident wherein a man crashed into the Chinese consulate on October 9. They said that the man had a crossbow and arrows and swung a knife at officers before being shot dead by a police sergeant.

The police, as per a CBS News report, also showed body camera footage from the responding officers.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the body cam footage show?&nbsp;</h2>

Speaking at a virtual town hall on Thursday, San Francisco Police Acting Commander Mark Im said that the man — identified as 31-year-old Zhanyuan Yang — had a crossbow and arrows in his car.&nbsp;

Body cam footage showed Yang covering his face with his left arm after getting pepper sprayed by a security guard.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-crashes-into-chinese-consulate-in-san-francisco-shot-dead-by-police-644822">Man crashes into Chinese consulate in San Francisco, shot dead by police</a>

He had a knife in his right hand, which he used to make "multiple, rapid, downward swinging motions"&nbsp;at responding officer San Francisco Sergeant Troy Carrasco, who was the first to arrive on the scene, and a consulate security guard.

Footage shows Carrasco touching Yang's back and asking the security guard, "Does he have a gun?"

The man then turns towards the officer and the guard and starts swinging the knife. Following this, Carrasco opens fire and shortly after, he can be heard shouting: "You should have told me he had a knife!"

<h2>Why didn't the police de-escalate the situation?</h2>

Responding to a question about the police's apparent lack of attempts to de-escalate the situation, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said he was not going to make any judgements nor guess what the officer was thinking.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-army-accuses-travis-king-of-desertion-solicitation-of-child-pornography-among-other-charges-649025">US Army accuses Travis King of desertion, solicitation of child pornography, among other charges</a>

However, he said that officers are trained to first stop a threat when confronted with an active threat.

"If we believe that we have an active attacker event, we will do everything possible to stop that threat immediately so we don't have a loss of life," said Scott.

Yang was taken to the hospital, where he died.

Police investigators are still looking into the motive behind this attack. Briefing the press, Scott said: "Why he showed up there, what he was doing, that's still under investigation and there's nothing that we have at this point that I can release."

In a statement released after the car crash, San Francisco's Chinese diplomatic post called the incident "a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene".

It said that an "unidentified person drove violently into the document hall of the consulate, posing a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene, and causing serious damage to the facilities and property of the consulate."

(With inputs from agencies)

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San Francisco police on Thursday released the first official details of the incident wherein a man crashed into the Chinese consulate on October 9. They said that the man had a crossbow and arrows and swung a knife at officers before being shot dead by a police sergeant.

San Francisco police on Thursday released the first official details of the incident wherein a man crashed into the Chinese consulate on October 9. They said that the man had a crossbow and arrows and swung a knife at officers before being shot dead by a police sergeant. The police, as per a CBS News report, also showed body camera footage from the responding officers. What did the body cam footage show? Speaking at a virtual town hall on Thursday, San Francisco Police Acting Commander Mark Im said that the man — identified as 31-year-old Zhanyuan Yang — had a crossbow and arrows in his car. Body cam footage showed Yang covering his face with his left arm after getting pepper sprayed by a security guard. Also read | Man crashes into Chinese consulate in San Francisco, shot dead by police He had a knife in his right hand, which he used to make "multiple, rapid, downward swinging motions" at responding officer San Francisco Sergeant Troy Carrasco, who was the first to arrive on the scene, and a consulate security guard. Footage shows Carrasco touching Yang's back and asking the security guard, "Does he have a gun?" The man then turns towards the officer and the guard and starts swinging the knife. Following this, Carrasco opens fire and shortly after, he can be heard shouting: "You should have told me he had a knife!" Why didn't the police de-escalate the situation? Responding to a question about the police's apparent lack of attempts to de-escalate the situation, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said he was not going to make any judgements nor guess what the officer was thinking. Also read | US Army accuses Travis King of desertion, solicitation of child pornography, among other charges However, he said that officers are trained to first stop a threat when confronted with an active threat. "If we believe that we have an active attacker event, we will do everything possible to stop that threat immediately so we don't have a loss of life," said Scott. Yang was taken to the hospital, where he died. Police investigators are still looking into the motive behind this attack. Briefing the press, Scott said: "Why he showed up there, what he was doing, that's still under investigation and there's nothing that we have at this point that I can release." In a statement released after the car crash, San Francisco's Chinese diplomatic post called the incident "a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene". It said that an "unidentified person drove violently into the document hall of the consulate, posing a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene, and causing serious damage to the facilities and property of the consulate." (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.

Man who crashed into Chinese consulate had crossbow, arrows and swung knife at officers: San Francisco police

Travis King, the United States soldier who made headlines for spending months in North Korea detention, has been charged with desertion.

As per a Reuters report, the 23-year-old soldier has also been hit with other charges, like assault against fellow soldiers and solicitation of child pornography.

<h2>Charges against the soldier</h2>

The US Army has hit Travis King with eight distinct charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Reuters reports that the Army chargesheet accuses King of broad misconduct, including an attempt to escape US custody in October 2022.

Additionally, he has been accused of soliciting a Snapchat user to "knowingly and willingly produce child pornography" in July 2023. King has also been charged with possession of child pornography.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-claims-detained-american-soldier-was-seeking-refuge-from-inhuman-treatment-in-us-army-625863">North Korea claims detained American soldier was seeking refuge from inhuman treatment in US Army</a>

Furthermore, insubordination for leaving the base after hours and drinking alcohol in violation of army regulations are among the charges against King.

He has also been charged with desertion. The army said that King left the Army in South Korea with the intention of staying away permanently, "and did remain so absent in desertion until on or about 27 September 2023."

<h2>'Presumption of innocence'</h2>

In a statement expressing her unconditional love, the soldier's mother, Claudine Gates, asked that her son "be afforded the presumption of innocence."

"The man I raised, the man I dropped off at boot camp, the man who spent the holidays with me before deploying did not drink," said Gates.&nbsp;

"A mother knows her son, and I believe something happened to mine while he was deployed. The Army promised to investigate what happened at Camp Humphreys, and I await the results," she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-committed-to-bring-home-american-soldier-travis-king-from-north-korea-626214">US says committed to 'bring home' American soldier Travis King from North Korea</a>

The charges come less than a month after King's release from North Korean custody. On September 28, he returned to the US after weeks of negotiations, and with the Swedish government's help.

For weeks, the army has deferred questions regarding potential disciplinary action against King. Instead, it said that their priority was ensuring that King received proper care after spending two months in detention.

<h2>Who is King?</h2>

Twenty-three-year-old King enlisted in the US Army in January 2021, and was assigned to the Korean Rotational Force as a Cavalry Scout as part of the long-standing US security commitment to South Korea, reports Reuters.

However, his time in this post was reportedly marked by legal difficulties. King faced two separate allegations of assault while stationed in South Korea, and had pleaded guilty to one assault incident and the destruction of public property. This, as per the report, happened during a "profanity-laced tirade" against Koreans, wherein he damaged a police vehicle.&nbsp;

This incident led to his detention in South Korea. After serving time there, he was supposed to return to Fort Bliss, Texas, where he was expected to face military disciplinary measures for his actions. However, instead, King "wilfully and without authorisation" crossed the border at the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which separates North and South Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Travis King, the United States soldier who made headlines for spending months in North Korea detention, has been charged with desertion. As per a Reuters report, the 23-year-old soldier has also been hit with other charges, like assault against fellow soldiers and solicitation of child pornography.

Travis King, the United States soldier who made headlines for spending months in North Korea detention, has been charged with desertion. As per a Reuters report, the 23-year-old soldier has also been hit with other charges, like assault against fellow soldiers and solicitation of child pornography. Charges against the soldier The US Army has hit Travis King with eight distinct charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Reuters reports that the Army chargesheet accuses King of broad misconduct, including an attempt to escape US custody in October 2022. Additionally, he has been accused of soliciting a Snapchat user to "knowingly and willingly produce child pornography" in July 2023. King has also been charged with possession of child pornography. Also read | North Korea claims detained American soldier was seeking refuge from inhuman treatment in US Army Furthermore, insubordination for leaving the base after hours and drinking alcohol in violation of army regulations are among the charges against King. He has also been charged with desertion. The army said that King left the Army in South Korea with the intention of staying away permanently, "and did remain so absent in desertion until on or about 27 September 2023." 'Presumption of innocence' In a statement expressing her unconditional love, the soldier's mother, Claudine Gates, asked that her son "be afforded the presumption of innocence." "The man I raised, the man I dropped off at boot camp, the man who spent the holidays with me before deploying did not drink," said Gates. "A mother knows her son, and I believe something happened to mine while he was deployed. The Army promised to investigate what happened at Camp Humphreys, and I await the results," she added. Also read | US says committed to 'bring home' American soldier Travis King from North Korea The charges come less than a month after King's release from North Korean custody. On September 28, he returned to the US after weeks of negotiations, and with the Swedish government's help. For weeks, the army has deferred questions regarding potential disciplinary action against King. Instead, it said that their priority was ensuring that King received proper care after spending two months in detention. Who is King? Twenty-three-year-old King enlisted in the US Army in January 2021, and was assigned to the Korean Rotational Force as a Cavalry Scout as part of the long-standing US security commitment to South Korea, reports Reuters. However, his time in this post was reportedly marked by legal difficulties. King faced two separate allegations of assault while stationed in South Korea, and had pleaded guilty to one assault incident and the destruction of public property. This, as per the report, happened during a "profanity-laced tirade" against Koreans, wherein he damaged a police vehicle. This incident led to his detention in South Korea. After serving time there, he was supposed to return to Fort Bliss, Texas, where he was expected to face military disciplinary measures for his actions. However, instead, King "wilfully and without authorisation" crossed the border at the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which separates North and South Korea. (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 Army accuses Travis King of desertion, solicitation of child pornography, among other charges

North Korea's state media reports claim that detained US soldier Travis King crossed into the country&nbsp;due to alleged "inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the US Army". This marks the first time that the communist country has addressed&nbsp;the incident involving Travis King.

<h2>Narrative surrounding King&nbsp;</h2>

Travis King, a soldier in the US military, reportedly entered North Korea during a civilian tour of the Joint Security Area (JSA) situated along the heavily fortified border between the two Koreas.&nbsp;

Reuters reports that US officials have previously stated that King appeared to have intentionally crossed the border. This has now been confirmed by North Korean investigators, who say that&nbsp;King deliberately and unlawfully entered North Korea with the intention of remaining there or seeking refuge in a third country, according to the state news agency KCNA.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-offers-brief-response-to-un-command-on-us-soldier-travis-king-621536">North Korea offers brief response to UN Command on US soldier Travis King</a>

On Wednesday, as per KCNA reports, during the investigation, Travis King purportedly confessed to his decision to come to North Korea, citing grievances related to alleged "inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the US Army."&nbsp;

The state news agency KCNA claims that&nbsp;King expressed disillusionment with what he perceived as an unequal American society.&nbsp;

"During the investigation, Travis King confessed that he had decided to come over to the DPRK as he harboured ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the US&nbsp;Army," claims the KCNA report. (Here, the initials "DPRK" refer to North Korea's official name.)

He also expressed his willingness to seek refuge in the DPRK or a third country, saying that he was "disillusioned at the unequal American society," it added.

<h2>Who is King?</h2>

Twenty-three-year-old King, who enlisted in the US Army in January 2021, had been assigned to the Korean Rotational Force as a Cavalry Scout as part of the long-standing US security commitment to South Korea, reports Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-communicating-with-north-korea-over-detained-american-soldier-travis-king-618876">UN communicating with North Korea over detained American soldier Travis King</a>

However, his time in this post was reportedly marked by legal difficulties. King faced two separate allegations of assault while stationed in South Korea, and had pleaded guilty to one assault incident and the destruction of public property. This, as per the report, happened during a "profanity-laced tirade" against Koreans, wherein he damaged a police vehicle.&nbsp;

This incident led to his detention in South Korea. After serving time there, he was supposed to return to Fort Bliss, Texas, where he was expected to face military disciplinary measures for his actions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea's state media reports claim that detained US soldier Travis King crossed into the country due to alleged "inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the US Army".

North Korea's state media reports claim that detained US soldier Travis King crossed into the country due to alleged "inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the US Army". This marks the first time that the communist country has addressed the incident involving Travis King. Narrative surrounding King Travis King, a soldier in the US military, reportedly entered North Korea during a civilian tour of the Joint Security Area (JSA) situated along the heavily fortified border between the two Koreas. Reuters reports that US officials have previously stated that King appeared to have intentionally crossed the border. This has now been confirmed by North Korean investigators, who say that King deliberately and unlawfully entered North Korea with the intention of remaining there or seeking refuge in a third country, according to the state news agency KCNA. Also read | North Korea offers brief response to UN Command on US soldier Travis King On Wednesday, as per KCNA reports, during the investigation, Travis King purportedly confessed to his decision to come to North Korea, citing grievances related to alleged "inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the US Army." The state news agency KCNA claims that King expressed disillusionment with what he perceived as an unequal American society. "During the investigation, Travis King confessed that he had decided to come over to the DPRK as he harboured ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the US Army," claims the KCNA report. (Here, the initials "DPRK" refer to North Korea's official name.) He also expressed his willingness to seek refuge in the DPRK or a third country, saying that he was "disillusioned at the unequal American society," it added. Who is King? Twenty-three-year-old King, who enlisted in the US Army in January 2021, had been assigned to the Korean Rotational Force as a Cavalry Scout as part of the long-standing US security commitment to South Korea, reports Reuters. Also read | UN communicating with North Korea over detained American soldier Travis King However, his time in this post was reportedly marked by legal difficulties. King faced two separate allegations of assault while stationed in South Korea, and had pleaded guilty to one assault incident and the destruction of public property. This, as per the report, happened during a "profanity-laced tirade" against Koreans, wherein he damaged a police vehicle. This incident led to his detention in South Korea. After serving time there, he was supposed to return to Fort Bliss, Texas, where he was expected to face military disciplinary measures for his actions. (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.

North Korea claims detained American soldier was seeking refuge from inhuman treatment in US Army

Donald Trump was admonished by a judge at his New York fraud trial on Wednesday. The judge warned Trump and others to "stop commenting" during witness testimonies.&nbsp;

This happened after Trump, in frustration, threw up his hands and engaged in animated conversation with his lawyers while a witness testified against him on the stand.

<h2>'Stop commenting'</h2>

On the second day of testimony at the Manhattan trial, Trump had an animated conversation with his lawyers while real-estate appraiser Doug Larson was on the stand.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slammed-over-insensitive-remarks-with-echoes-of-nazi-rhetoric-645087">Donald Trump's politically incorrect language sparks fears of violence</a>

State lawyer Kevin Wallace raised concerns to Judge Arthur Engoron, requesting that the defence be asked to "stop commenting during the witness's testimony," as the "exhortations" were audible to the witness.

Judge Engoron then advised all parties to keep their voices down, "particularly if it’s meant to influence the testimony."

<h2>The Larson testimony</h2>

The trial threatens to disrupt Trump's real estate empire and affluent image. Over the past few weeks, prosecutors have been constructing a case demonstrating that Trump and his family intentionally inflated property values.&nbsp;

However, Trump's defence contends that valuations were accurate, and any discrepancies were others' fault.

Trump, as per The Guardian, grew agitated as estate appraiser Doug Larson testified.

His lawyer Lazaro Fields accused Larson of dishonesty and tried to establish that Larson had, at one point, undershot the projected 2015 value of a Trump-owned Wall Street office building by $114mn.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-accuses-biden-administration-of-funding-hamass-terror-campaign-648167">Donald Trump accuses Biden administration of funding 'Hamas' terror campaign'</a>

However, Larson testified that the "values were not wrong—it's what we knew at the time."

It was during this exchange that Trump threw up his hands.

Larson testified that the Trump Organisation's former controller Jeffrey McConney hadn't obtained his permission to cite him as an outside expert in the valuation spreadsheets used to make Trump's financial statements. He also said he never consulted with Trump's company.&nbsp;

This led to Trump's lawyer accusing Larson of lying, which then triggered a heated exchange between the opposing sides, including accusations of witness intimidation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Donald Trump was admonished by a judge at his New York fraud trial on Wednesday. The judge warned Trump and others to "stop commenting" during witness testimonies.

Donald Trump was admonished by a judge at his New York fraud trial on Wednesday. The judge warned Trump and others to "stop commenting" during witness testimonies. This happened after Trump, in frustration, threw up his hands and engaged in animated conversation with his lawyers while a witness testified against him on the stand. 'Stop commenting' On the second day of testimony at the Manhattan trial, Trump had an animated conversation with his lawyers while real-estate appraiser Doug Larson was on the stand. Also read | Donald Trump's politically incorrect language sparks fears of violence State lawyer Kevin Wallace raised concerns to Judge Arthur Engoron, requesting that the defence be asked to "stop commenting during the witness's testimony," as the "exhortations" were audible to the witness. Judge Engoron then advised all parties to keep their voices down, "particularly if it’s meant to influence the testimony." The Larson testimony The trial threatens to disrupt Trump's real estate empire and affluent image. Over the past few weeks, prosecutors have been constructing a case demonstrating that Trump and his family intentionally inflated property values. However, Trump's defence contends that valuations were accurate, and any discrepancies were others' fault. Trump, as per The Guardian, grew agitated as estate appraiser Doug Larson testified. His lawyer Lazaro Fields accused Larson of dishonesty and tried to establish that Larson had, at one point, undershot the projected 2015 value of a Trump-owned Wall Street office building by $114mn. Also read | Donald Trump accuses Biden administration of funding 'Hamas' terror campaign' However, Larson testified that the "values were not wrong—it's what we knew at the time." It was during this exchange that Trump threw up his hands. Larson testified that the Trump Organisation's former controller Jeffrey McConney hadn't obtained his permission to cite him as an outside expert in the valuation spreadsheets used to make Trump's financial statements. He also said he never consulted with Trump's company. This led to Trump's lawyer accusing Larson of lying, which then triggered a heated exchange between the opposing sides, including accusations of witness intimidation. (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 scolded by judge for courtroom interruptions during witness testimony in fraud trial

Jair Bolsanaro, the former Brazil president, may soon face criminal charges for the January 8 insurrection by thousands of his supporters.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, a congressional probe into the insurrection recommended that the far-right former president and some of his closest allies should be charged with an attempted coup d'état, along with other crimes.

<h2>The probe</h2>

Lawmakers have approved Senator Eliziane Gama's final report&nbsp;after months of hearing witnesses and probing the events of the insurrection that saw Bolsonaro supporters invade government buildings in Brasília after resident Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's win.

As per Reuters, Gama, who was the rapporteur of the inquiry, on Tuesday&nbsp;recommended a slew of charges against Bolsonaro. These include criminal association, political violence, disrupting the democratic order and an attempted coup d'état.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-bolsonaros-legal-troubles-deepen-as-quote-authorises-probe-into-his-finances-626878">Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances</a>

It also recommended criminal charges against 60 other people, including some of Bolsonaro's closest allies — including former army general Walter Braga Netto, and former national security adviser Augusto Heleno.

While the inquiry itself has no power to punish Bolsonaro or his allies, it can issue recommendations for prosecutors to file criminal or civil charges.

<h2>A fitting "response"</h2>

Brazilian lawmakers, by 20 votes to 11, approved Gama's text and passed it without any amendments.&nbsp;

Afterwards, talking to the press, Senator Gama said: "Congress gave a response of intolerance to anti-democratic acts."

"It's a demonstration that Brazil overcame fascism, overcame barbarism," she added.

<h2>Other legal woes</h2>

The list of legal woes Bolsonaro faces doesn't end with the congressional inquiry. Last year, he was ruled to be politically ineligible till 2030 over his unfounded claims about the "vulnerabilities" of Brazil's election system.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-17-years-prison-sentence-for-pro-bolsonaro-defendant-in-january-8-riots-636079">Brazil: 17-year prison sentence for pro-Bolsonaro defendant in January 8 riots</a>

He is also the subject of five criminal investigations led by the Supreme Court. Furthermore, he is under investigation for allegedly falsifying COVID-19 vaccination records to enter the USA and selling expensive jewels gifted to his administration by the Saudi government during his time as Brazil's PM.

Jair Bolsonaro has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and has labelled allegations against him a witch hunt by his political opponents.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Jair Bolsanaro, the former Brazil president, may soon face criminal charges for the January 8 insurrection by thousands of his supporters. On Wednesday, a congressional probe into the insurrection recommended that the far-right former president and some of his closest allies should be charged with an attempted coup d'état, along with other crimes.

Jair Bolsanaro, the former Brazil president, may soon face criminal charges for the January 8 insurrection by thousands of his supporters. On Wednesday, a congressional probe into the insurrection recommended that the far-right former president and some of his closest allies should be charged with an attempted coup d'état, along with other crimes. The probe Lawmakers have approved Senator Eliziane Gama's final report after months of hearing witnesses and probing the events of the insurrection that saw Bolsonaro supporters invade government buildings in Brasília after resident Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's win. As per Reuters, Gama, who was the rapporteur of the inquiry, on Tuesday recommended a slew of charges against Bolsonaro. These include criminal association, political violence, disrupting the democratic order and an attempted coup d'état. Also read | Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances It also recommended criminal charges against 60 other people, including some of Bolsonaro's closest allies — including former army general Walter Braga Netto, and former national security adviser Augusto Heleno. While the inquiry itself has no power to punish Bolsonaro or his allies, it can issue recommendations for prosecutors to file criminal or civil charges. A fitting "response" Brazilian lawmakers, by 20 votes to 11, approved Gama's text and passed it without any amendments. Afterwards, talking to the press, Senator Gama said: "Congress gave a response of intolerance to anti-democratic acts." "It's a demonstration that Brazil overcame fascism, overcame barbarism," she added. Other legal woes The list of legal woes Bolsonaro faces doesn't end with the congressional inquiry. Last year, he was ruled to be politically ineligible till 2030 over his unfounded claims about the "vulnerabilities" of Brazil's election system. Also read | Brazil: 17-year prison sentence for pro-Bolsonaro defendant in January 8 riots He is also the subject of five criminal investigations led by the Supreme Court. Furthermore, he is under investigation for allegedly falsifying COVID-19 vaccination records to enter the USA and selling expensive jewels gifted to his administration by the Saudi government during his time as Brazil's PM. Jair Bolsonaro has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and has labelled allegations against him a witch hunt by his political opponents. (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.

Brazil: Congressional committee into Jan 8 insurrection recommends criminal charges against Jair Bolsonaro

During an infrastructure project in Florida's northeastern city of St. Augustine, construction crews made a remarkable find: the remnants of a shipwreck dating back to the 19th century.&nbsp;

Last week, the construction crew from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) were working on a $42 million drainage improvement initiative in the downtown area, when they uncovered the historic wooden fragments, reported&nbsp;TV station WFLA.

<h2>The find</h2>

Described as a single-masted, shallow-draft sailboat used for coastal fishing, the recovered ship's lower hull measured between 24 and 28 feet originally. The excavation team has recovered 19 feet of the intact remains.

Alongside the vessel, various artifacts were found. According to the Guardian report citing Jacksonville Today, these include the base of a kerosene lamp, two coconut shells likely repurposed as drinking cups, leather shoes presumed to belong to a crew member, and 19th-century coins.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-was-that-loud-bang-and-bizarre-flash-of-light-stun-locals-in-melbourne-648730">What was that? Loud bang and bizarre flash of light stun locals in Melbourne</a>

To ensure the proper handling of any potential discoveries, FDOT had enlisted the support of Southeastern Archaeological Research (Search), an archaeology firm.&nbsp;

James Delgado, the senior vice president at Search, along with archaeologist Sam Turner, co-led the excavation of the vessel.&nbsp;

The find ultimately proved to be a "very humble but important little water craft" from 19th-century. The "small single-masted, shallow-draft" sailboat, as per Delgado was used "to extract fish and shellfish from coastal waterways and directly offshore."

<h2>Excavation process</h2>

Using controlled water pressure, the team meticulously removed the layers of sediment veiling the vessel, progressively revealing its structure.&nbsp;

Delgado expressed the fascination of being the first to witness this unveiling process, and said: "The first moment of seeing little bit to seeing it systematically exposed as we worked through the different layers was, as always, fascinating...because you're the first eyes to see this."

FDOT District 2 Secretary Greg Evans praised the exceptional preservation of the sunken vessel, and said that "It’s truly an incredible find".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-tourism-bounces-back-welcomes-2-million-foreign-visitors-in-september-648737">Japan's tourism bounces back, welcomes 2 million foreign visitors in September</a>

The ship was preserved well as "it was encapsulated in soil and mud, so there was no air contact for it to decay."

For Delgado, the discovery not only shed light on the historical context but also spoke to the enduring spirit of toil and resilience among "everyday people".

"What it speaks to is the reality of life for so many people, then as well as now. You get up, you go to work, and you make a living to put food on the table. You work hard," he remarked.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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During an infrastructure project in Florida's northeastern city of St. Augustine, construction crews made a remarkable find: the remnants of a shipwreck dating back to the 19th century.

During an infrastructure project in Florida's northeastern city of St. Augustine, construction crews made a remarkable find: the remnants of a shipwreck dating back to the 19th century. Last week, the construction crew from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) were working on a $42 million drainage improvement initiative in the downtown area, when they uncovered the historic wooden fragments, reported TV station WFLA. The find Described as a single-masted, shallow-draft sailboat used for coastal fishing, the recovered ship's lower hull measured between 24 and 28 feet originally. The excavation team has recovered 19 feet of the intact remains. Alongside the vessel, various artifacts were found. According to the Guardian report citing Jacksonville Today, these include the base of a kerosene lamp, two coconut shells likely repurposed as drinking cups, leather shoes presumed to belong to a crew member, and 19th-century coins. Also read | What was that? Loud bang and bizarre flash of light stun locals in Melbourne To ensure the proper handling of any potential discoveries, FDOT had enlisted the support of Southeastern Archaeological Research (Search), an archaeology firm. James Delgado, the senior vice president at Search, along with archaeologist Sam Turner, co-led the excavation of the vessel. The find ultimately proved to be a "very humble but important little water craft" from 19th-century. The "small single-masted, shallow-draft" sailboat, as per Delgado was used "to extract fish and shellfish from coastal waterways and directly offshore." Excavation process Using controlled water pressure, the team meticulously removed the layers of sediment veiling the vessel, progressively revealing its structure. Delgado expressed the fascination of being the first to witness this unveiling process, and said: "The first moment of seeing little bit to seeing it systematically exposed as we worked through the different layers was, as always, fascinating...because you're the first eyes to see this." FDOT District 2 Secretary Greg Evans praised the exceptional preservation of the sunken vessel, and said that "It’s truly an incredible find". Also read | Japan's tourism bounces back, welcomes 2 million foreign visitors in September The ship was preserved well as "it was encapsulated in soil and mud, so there was no air contact for it to decay." For Delgado, the discovery not only shed light on the historical context but also spoke to the enduring spirit of toil and resilience among "everyday people". "What it speaks to is the reality of life for so many people, then as well as now. You get up, you go to work, and you make a living to put food on the table. You work hard," he remarked. (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.

Historic shipwreck uncovered in Florida provides glimpse into 19th-century life

In a robust comeback for Japan's tourism sector, official data revealed that for the fourth consecutive month in September, the country welcomed over 2 million international visitors.&nbsp;

This, as per Reuters, signals a significant stride towards pre-pandemic levels.

<h2>Millions of visitors</h2>

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the count of foreign visitors, both for leisure and business purposes, reached 2.18 million last month, a slight uptick from August's 2.16 million.

This surge in numbers is equal to a noteworthy 96.1 per cent recovery compared to the levels observed in 2019 — before the onset of the global COVID-19 travel restrictions — reports the news agency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-population-crisis-worsens-one-in-10-people-aged-80-or-older-report-637578">Japan population crisis worsens, one in 10 people aged 80 or older: Report</a>

&nbsp;

Japan had some of the most stringent COVID-19 border restrictions. These were relaxed a year ago, and since then Japan has progressively resumed visa-free travel for many nations and ultimately eliminated all remaining controls by May.

<h2>Day and night difference</h2>

The rapid resurgence in arrivals peaked at 2.32 million in July, fuelled by increased international flight capacities. The yen's depreciation, to a nearly 33-year low, has also added to making Japan an increasingly attractive and cost-effective destination.

Talking to Reuters, John Hardisty, a 48-year-old engineer from Hawaii, noted the stark contrast in expenses between the United States and Japan.

Watch |&nbsp;Japan take steps towards establishing overtourism countermeasures

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"With inflation in the United States, everything is outrageously expensive, and coming here, it's a lot cheaper," he said, adding, "It's like a night and day difference."

While the number of visitors from key markets such as the United States, South Korea, and Singapore hit record highs in September, travellers from Mexico also surged to an all-time high for any given month, reported the JNTO.&nbsp;

This demand, as per Reuters, has helped compensate for the notable shortfall in arrivals from mainland China, which are still lagging behind figures from 2019 by 60 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-kishida-demonstrates-fukushima-seafood-safety-through-safe-and-delicious-sashimi-lunch-630596">Japan PM Kishida, ministers enjoy 'safe, delicious' Sashimi lunch to demonstrate Fukushima seafood safety</a>

Although there was a slight improvement in Chinese arrivals following Beijing's relaxation of group travel restrictions to Japan, tensions have escalated due to Japan's decision to release treated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean.

Economist Masato Koike from Sompo Institute Plus credits this to the ramifications of the treated water issue from Japan's Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant. Koike says, "The trend towards recovery is likely to remain unchanged."

While the recent data reflects promising growth, with over 17 million visitors arriving in Japan during the first nine months of 2023, it is still significantly lagging from the peak of approximately 32 million visitors recorded in 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a robust comeback for Japan's tourism sector, official data revealed that for the fourth consecutive month in September, the country welcomed over 2 million international visitors.

In a robust comeback for Japan's tourism sector, official data revealed that for the fourth consecutive month in September, the country welcomed over 2 million international visitors. This, as per Reuters, signals a significant stride towards pre-pandemic levels. Millions of visitors According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the count of foreign visitors, both for leisure and business purposes, reached 2.18 million last month, a slight uptick from August's 2.16 million. This surge in numbers is equal to a noteworthy 96.1 per cent recovery compared to the levels observed in 2019 — before the onset of the global COVID-19 travel restrictions — reports the news agency. Also read | Japan population crisis worsens, one in 10 people aged 80 or older: Report Japan had some of the most stringent COVID-19 border restrictions. These were relaxed a year ago, and since then Japan has progressively resumed visa-free travel for many nations and ultimately eliminated all remaining controls by May. Day and night difference The rapid resurgence in arrivals peaked at 2.32 million in July, fuelled by increased international flight capacities. The yen's depreciation, to a nearly 33-year low, has also added to making Japan an increasingly attractive and cost-effective destination. Talking to Reuters, John Hardisty, a 48-year-old engineer from Hawaii, noted the stark contrast in expenses between the United States and Japan. Watch | Japan take steps towards establishing overtourism countermeasures × "With inflation in the United States, everything is outrageously expensive, and coming here, it's a lot cheaper," he said, adding, "It's like a night and day difference." While the number of visitors from key markets such as the United States, South Korea, and Singapore hit record highs in September, travellers from Mexico also surged to an all-time high for any given month, reported the JNTO. This demand, as per Reuters, has helped compensate for the notable shortfall in arrivals from mainland China, which are still lagging behind figures from 2019 by 60 per cent. Also read | Japan PM Kishida, ministers enjoy 'safe, delicious' Sashimi lunch to demonstrate Fukushima seafood safety Although there was a slight improvement in Chinese arrivals following Beijing's relaxation of group travel restrictions to Japan, tensions have escalated due to Japan's decision to release treated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean. Economist Masato Koike from Sompo Institute Plus credits this to the ramifications of the treated water issue from Japan's Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant. Koike says, "The trend towards recovery is likely to remain unchanged." While the recent data reflects promising growth, with over 17 million visitors arriving in Japan during the first nine months of 2023, it is still significantly lagging from the peak of approximately 32 million visitors recorded in 2019. (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.

Japan tourism bounces back, welcomes 2 million foreign visitors in September

Israel vs Hamas | Blast at Gaza hospital sparks protests worldwide

The Israel-Hamas conflict has had several disturbing spillovers throughout the world. One of them is the rising prejudices against Muslims and Jews. In one such incident, some students of New York University (NYU) were seen tearing down posters of Israeli children taken hostage by Hamas.&nbsp;

Another incident, an alleged hate crime, involves a student from Columbia University. The student, as per reports, attacked a Jewish classmate with a broomstick.

<h2>Video goes viral&nbsp;</h2>

A video of the NYU students tearing down posters has gone viral on social media. The students, as per Daily Mail, are yet to be named publicly. Additionally, the university hasn't confirmed whether the young people seen in the video are currently enrolled.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hate-crime-in-us-man-stabs-6-year-old-muslim-child-over-ongoing-israel-hamas-war-tensions-647335">Hate crime in US: Man stabs to death 6-year-old Muslim child over ongoing Israel-Hamas war</a>

The video was filmed on Monday (Oct 16) at Tisch Hall in Manhattan's Greenwich Village by Students Supporting Israel, a campus organisation. In it, some youngsters&nbsp;can be seen stripping a wall bare of posters featuring the faces of some children taken hostage by Hamas militants.&nbsp;

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Today, we witnessed 2 NYU students violently tearing down posters of kidnapped babies, mothers, and grandmothers hanging outside of NYU Buildings. This was done in a laughing manner, exhibiting complete disregard for Jewish lives and Jewish safety. 
 
HERE ARE THE PICTURES. <a href="https://t.co/VfEkkQ06sR">pic.twitter.com/VfEkkQ06sR</a>
— SSI_NYU (@ssi_nyu) <a href="https://twitter.com/ssi_nyu/status/1714052725686600169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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You can watch the video here:

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Here is the video of them taking it down. Heartbreaking. <a href="https://t.co/X4ZgMK5khh">pic.twitter.com/X4ZgMK5khh</a>
— SSI_NYU (@ssi_nyu) <a href="https://twitter.com/ssi_nyu/status/1714055430777774230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

The campus organisation Students Supporting Israel is demanding the students seen tearing down posters be kicked out of the university.

<h2>Hate crime&nbsp;</h2>

The second incident involves students from Columbia University. A 19-year-old student has been hit with hate crime, assault and harassment charges for attacking a Jewish classmate. The attacker has been identified by Daily Mail as Maxwell Friedman.

Friedman, who uses female pronouns as per police, attacked a 24-year-old male classmate, fracturing his finger. The victim who has not been identified, was putting up posters of young children taken hostage by Hamas militants when the hate crime happened.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mom-im-fine-family-reveal-6-year-old-hate-crime-victims-heartbreaking-last-words-647816">'Mom, I'm fine': 6-year-old Muslim boy's heartbreaking last words before dying in hate crime</a>

These two incidents are the latest in a string of cases in the US that have happened as a consequence of the Israel-Hamas war.

Some Jewish students, as per Daily Mail, have also spoken out, saying that they no longer feel safe on campus due to their fellow students'&nbsp;lack of sympathy for Israel.

These incidents are not just limited to college and university campuses. Recently, in Illinois, US, a 71-year-old landlord made the headlines for fatally stabbing the 6-year-old child of his Palestine-American tenants.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Israel-Hamas conflict has had several disturbing spillovers throughout the world. One of them is the rising prejudices against Muslims and Jews. In one such incident, some students of New York University (NYU) were seen tearing down posters of Israeli children taken hostage by Hamas.

The Israel-Hamas conflict has had several disturbing spillovers throughout the world. One of them is the rising prejudices against Muslims and Jews. In one such incident, some students of New York University (NYU) were seen tearing down posters of Israeli children taken hostage by Hamas. Another incident, an alleged hate crime, involves a student from Columbia University. The student, as per reports, attacked a Jewish classmate with a broomstick. Video goes viral A video of the NYU students tearing down posters has gone viral on social media. The students, as per Daily Mail, are yet to be named publicly. Additionally, the university hasn't confirmed whether the young people seen in the video are currently enrolled. Also read | Hate crime in US: Man stabs to death 6-year-old Muslim child over ongoing Israel-Hamas war The video was filmed on Monday (Oct 16) at Tisch Hall in Manhattan's Greenwich Village by Students Supporting Israel, a campus organisation. In it, some youngsters can be seen stripping a wall bare of posters featuring the faces of some children taken hostage by Hamas militants. Today, we witnessed 2 NYU students violently tearing down posters of kidnapped babies, mothers, and grandmothers hanging outside of NYU Buildings. This was done in a laughing manner, exhibiting complete disregard for Jewish lives and Jewish safety. HERE ARE THE PICTURES. pic.twitter.com/VfEkkQ06sR — SSI_NYU (@ssi_nyu) October 16, 2023 × You can watch the video here: Here is the video of them taking it down. Heartbreaking. pic.twitter.com/X4ZgMK5khh — SSI_NYU (@ssi_nyu) October 16, 2023 × Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. The campus organisation Students Supporting Israel is demanding the students seen tearing down posters be kicked out of the university. Hate crime The second incident involves students from Columbia University. A 19-year-old student has been hit with hate crime, assault and harassment charges for attacking a Jewish classmate. The attacker has been identified by Daily Mail as Maxwell Friedman. Friedman, who uses female pronouns as per police, attacked a 24-year-old male classmate, fracturing his finger. The victim who has not been identified, was putting up posters of young children taken hostage by Hamas militants when the hate crime happened. Also read | 'Mom, I'm fine': 6-year-old Muslim boy's heartbreaking last words before dying in hate crime These two incidents are the latest in a string of cases in the US that have happened as a consequence of the Israel-Hamas war. Some Jewish students, as per Daily Mail, have also spoken out, saying that they no longer feel safe on campus due to their fellow students' lack of sympathy for Israel. These incidents are not just limited to college and university campuses. Recently, in Illinois, US, a 71-year-old landlord made the headlines for fatally stabbing the 6-year-old child of his Palestine-American tenants. (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.

NYU students seen tearing down posters of young Israeli children kidnapped by Hamas. Watch!

Palestine, on Wednesday, called out Israel on its denial of involvement in the tragic Gaza hospital blast. Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a "liar" and countered his claims that Hamas was behind the attack.

The Palestinian envoy claimed that Israeli forces were behind the strike and said that they had proof, a deleted X (formerly Twitter) post made by Israel.

<h2>What proof does Palestine have?</h2>

Hitting out at the Israeli PM, Mansour said, "He is a liar."&nbsp;

The diplomat claimed that they have a copy of a now-deleted post made by Israel in which the nation allegedly admitted that they hit a Hamas base in the area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/israel-vs-hamas-blast-at-gaza-hospital-sparks-protests-worldwide-648223">Israel vs Hamas | Blast at Gaza hospital sparks protests worldwide</a>

He said that Netanyahu's "digital spokesperson tweeted that Israel did the hit thinking that there was a base for Hamas around this hospital, and then he deleted that tweet. We have a copy of that tweet."

"Now they changed the story to try to blame the Palestinians," he alleged, adding, "The Israeli spokesperson of the Army made a statement in which he said evacuate the hospitals... Their intention is to evacuate or hospitals will be hit and they are responsible for that crime and they cannot fabricate stories to deal with it."

As per news agency ANI, Mansour in his statement also demanded for immediate ceasefire.

"We as an Arab Group demand immediately a ceasefire because the continuation of the war, it means killing more Palestinians every moment."

<h2>Exchanging blames</h2>

Earlier, in a statement, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said that intelligence from several sources revealed that "Islamic Jihad terrorists" were responsible for the strike, which was an unsuccessful rocket launch.

Taking to social media platform X, he said: "An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hate-crime-nyu-students-seen-tearing-down-posters-of-young-israeli-children-kidnapped-by-hamas-watch-648203">NYU students seen tearing down posters of young Israeli children kidnapped by Hamas. Watch!</a>

"Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch which hit the hospital in Gaza," he added.

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An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit. 
 
Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is…
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1714371254617022641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In another post, he remarked that the "entire world should know: It was barbaric terrorists in Gaza that attacked the hospital in Gaza, and not the IDF."&nbsp;

"Those who brutally murdered our children also murder their own children," added the Israeli PM.

On Tuesday, Tal Heinrich, a spokesperson for Netanyahu, told CNN that IDF "does not target hospitals," adding "we only target Hamas strongholds, arms depots, and terror targets."

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The entire world should know: It was barbaric terrorists in Gaza that attacked the hospital in Gaza, and not the IDF. 
 
Those who brutally murdered our children also murder their own children.
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1714377902991528174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Israel Defense Forces, as per AFP, also attributed the blast to a misfired rocket by Hamas.

In a statement, IDF said: "The hospital was hit as a result of a failed rocket launched by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organisation."&nbsp;Hamas has labelled these accusations "lies".

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

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Palestine, on Wednesday, called out Israel on its denial of involvement in the tragic Gaza hospital blast. Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a "liar" and countered his claims that Hamas was behind the attack.

Palestine, on Wednesday, called out Israel on its denial of involvement in the tragic Gaza hospital blast. Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a "liar" and countered his claims that Hamas was behind the attack. The Palestinian envoy claimed that Israeli forces were behind the strike and said that they had proof, a deleted X (formerly Twitter) post made by Israel. What proof does Palestine have? Hitting out at the Israeli PM, Mansour said, "He is a liar." The diplomat claimed that they have a copy of a now-deleted post made by Israel in which the nation allegedly admitted that they hit a Hamas base in the area. Also read | Israel vs Hamas | Blast at Gaza hospital sparks protests worldwide He said that Netanyahu's "digital spokesperson tweeted that Israel did the hit thinking that there was a base for Hamas around this hospital, and then he deleted that tweet. We have a copy of that tweet." "Now they changed the story to try to blame the Palestinians," he alleged, adding, "The Israeli spokesperson of the Army made a statement in which he said evacuate the hospitals... Their intention is to evacuate or hospitals will be hit and they are responsible for that crime and they cannot fabricate stories to deal with it." As per news agency ANI, Mansour in his statement also demanded for immediate ceasefire. "We as an Arab Group demand immediately a ceasefire because the continuation of the war, it means killing more Palestinians every moment." Exchanging blames Earlier, in a statement, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said that intelligence from several sources revealed that "Islamic Jihad terrorists" were responsible for the strike, which was an unsuccessful rocket launch. Taking to social media platform X, he said: "An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit." Also read | NYU students seen tearing down posters of young Israeli children kidnapped by Hamas. Watch! "Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch which hit the hospital in Gaza," he added. An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit. Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is… — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 17, 2023 × In another post, he remarked that the "entire world should know: It was barbaric terrorists in Gaza that attacked the hospital in Gaza, and not the IDF." "Those who brutally murdered our children also murder their own children," added the Israeli PM. On Tuesday, Tal Heinrich, a spokesperson for Netanyahu, told CNN that IDF "does not target hospitals," adding "we only target Hamas strongholds, arms depots, and terror targets." The entire world should know: It was barbaric terrorists in Gaza that attacked the hospital in Gaza, and not the IDF. Those who brutally murdered our children also murder their own children. — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 17, 2023 × The Israel Defense Forces, as per AFP, also attributed the blast to a misfired rocket by Hamas. In a statement, IDF said: "The hospital was hit as a result of a failed rocket launched by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organisation." Hamas has labelled these accusations "lies". (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. 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.

Gaza hospital attack: Palestinian envoy calls Netanyahu a liar, claims to have proof of Israel involvement

Death is the sad truth of life. When someone close to us dies, we try to give them the best send-off. That is exactly what the people of Penrose, a small town in Colorado, United States, thought they were doing by availing the services of Return to Nature, a 'green' funeral home. However, a few weeks back an "abhorrent smell" alerted authorities to heaps of decomposing bodies.

<h2>Foul odour</h2>

Officials have discovered the decomposing remains of around 189 people from the Colorado funeral home that offered cremations and 'green' burials without the use of embalming fluids.&nbsp;

The discovery was made earlier this month, and the initial estimate was 115 bodies. However, on Tuesday, officials said that they have now identified 189 bodies.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hate-crime-nyu-students-seen-tearing-down-posters-of-young-israeli-children-kidnapped-by-hamas-watch-648203">NYU students seen tearing down posters of young Israeli children kidnapped by Hamas. Watch!</a>

As per CBS News, they also said that the number could further change depending on the identification and the investigation.

<h2>'Horrific' scene</h2>

Authorities started their investigation on October 5&nbsp;after receiving complaints of a foul order from inside the decrepit building that houses the funeral home.

Fremont sheriff Allen Cooper described what they found as "horrific".&nbsp;

Citing an order from state officials dated October 5, news agency AP reports that Jon Hallford, the owner of the funeral home, has acknowledged having a "problem" at Penrose. Hallford also claimed that he practised taxidermy at the Penrose site.

Authorities finished removing the decomposing bodies on October 11&nbsp;and are working on identifying the remains. For this, they have sought help from an FBI team that, as per AP, gets deployed to mass casualty events like aircraft crashes.

<h2>Funeral home in trouble</h2>

As per the Gazette, the funeral home's licence&nbsp;expired months before the discovery was made. Citing records from the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), it reports that the licence for Return to Nature Funeral Home Penrose location expired on Nov&nbsp;30, 2022.&nbsp;

Documentation released by DORA revealed that despite that, the funeral home continued operations.&nbsp;

Authorities reportedly were aware of the funeral home's troubles. It had missed tax payments in recent months, had got evicted from one of its properties and was also sued for unpaid bills by a crematory that ended business ties with it almost a year ago.&nbsp;

More than 120 worried families have already contacted authorities, fearing their relatives could be among the decomposing bodies. Colorado, as per the report, has some of the weakest rules for funeral homes in the US with no routine inspections or qualification requirements for funeral home operators.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Death is the sad truth of life. When someone close to us dies, we try to give them the best send-off. That is exactly what the people of Penrose, a small town in Colorado, United States, thought they were doing by availing the services of Return to Nature, a 'green' funeral home.

Death is the sad truth of life. When someone close to us dies, we try to give them the best send-off. That is exactly what the people of Penrose, a small town in Colorado, United States, thought they were doing by availing the services of Return to Nature, a 'green' funeral home. However, a few weeks back an "abhorrent smell" alerted authorities to heaps of decomposing bodies. Foul odour Officials have discovered the decomposing remains of around 189 people from the Colorado funeral home that offered cremations and 'green' burials without the use of embalming fluids. The discovery was made earlier this month, and the initial estimate was 115 bodies. However, on Tuesday, officials said that they have now identified 189 bodies. Also read | NYU students seen tearing down posters of young Israeli children kidnapped by Hamas. Watch! As per CBS News, they also said that the number could further change depending on the identification and the investigation. 'Horrific' scene Authorities started their investigation on October 5 after receiving complaints of a foul order from inside the decrepit building that houses the funeral home. Fremont sheriff Allen Cooper described what they found as "horrific". Citing an order from state officials dated October 5, news agency AP reports that Jon Hallford, the owner of the funeral home, has acknowledged having a "problem" at Penrose. Hallford also claimed that he practised taxidermy at the Penrose site. Authorities finished removing the decomposing bodies on October 11 and are working on identifying the remains. For this, they have sought help from an FBI team that, as per AP, gets deployed to mass casualty events like aircraft crashes. Funeral home in trouble As per the Gazette, the funeral home's licence expired months before the discovery was made. Citing records from the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), it reports that the licence for Return to Nature Funeral Home Penrose location expired on Nov 30, 2022. Documentation released by DORA revealed that despite that, the funeral home continued operations. Authorities reportedly were aware of the funeral home's troubles. It had missed tax payments in recent months, had got evicted from one of its properties and was also sued for unpaid bills by a crematory that ended business ties with it almost a year ago. More than 120 worried families have already contacted authorities, fearing their relatives could be among the decomposing bodies. Colorado, as per the report, has some of the weakest rules for funeral homes in the US with no routine inspections or qualification requirements for funeral home operators. (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.

Shocking! Authorities discover 189 decomposing bodies at Colorado funeral home