Three New York police officers were attacked near Times Square on New Year's Eve. The attacker used a machete to injure the officers. The police say it was an unprovoked attack.

US: Three police officers attacked with a machete near times square

As the world celebrated the New Years with fireworks, Russia targeted the Ukrainian Capital Kyiv along with several other regions in the country. According to Ukrainian officials, Russia launched dozens of missiles towards cities.

War in Ukraine: Blasts in early hours of New Year's day, Kyiv residents shout 'glory to Ukraine'

Amid rising tensions with the west and the worst anti-government protests since the Iranian green movement, Iran's military tested new attack drones in the coastal area of the Gulf of Oman and near the Strategic Strait of Hormuz on Saturday as part of military drills conducted by Tehran.

Iran: Tests drones as part of military drills, conducts wargames near strategic strait of Hormuz

Let's take a look at the stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION: UK PM Rishi Sunak says 'problems won't go away in New Year'

Indian-origin British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in his first New Year message on Saturday said that "UK's problem won't go away in 2023," at the end of&nbsp; "tough" 12 months.&nbsp;The year 2022 has been tough for the UK in economic and political aspects.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-sunak-surprises-public-sector-workers-with-call-to-say-thanks-546357">Also read |&nbsp;UK PM Sunak surprises public sector workers with call to say thanks</a>

In the video, Sunak said, "I'm not going to pretend that all our problems will go away in the New Year." But promised to work 'relentlessly' to bring out the "very best of Britain" in the coming months,&nbsp;reported PTI.

"But 2023 will give us the opportunity to showcase the very best of Britain on the world stage, defending freedom and democracy wherever we find it under threat," Sunak said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Boris Johnson beats Rishi Sunak on Tory popularity chart

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/boris-johnson-beats-rishi-sunak-on-tory-popularity-chart-547684/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Sunak, who took charge at the end of October, promised to work to bring things back on track including its stance on NHS and plans to tackle the backlog with more funding, more doctors and more nurses. He also said that the government is working to stop illegal immigration and stop criminals from abusing UK's asylum system.

He also highlighted the global challenges, the ongoing "barbaric" Russia-Ukraine war" led to. "This has had a profound economic impact around the world, which the UK is not immune to. Now, I know many of you have felt that impact at home. That's why this government has taken difficult but fair decisions to get borrowing and debt under control. And it's because of those decisions that we've been able to help the most vulnerable with the rising cost of energy bills," Sunak said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-uk-minister-alok-sharma-among-indian-origin-people-knighted-by-king-charles-548293">Also read |&nbsp;Ex-UK minister Alok Sharma among Indian origin people knighted by King Charles</a>

"Three months ago, I stood at the steps of Downing Street and promised I would work relentlessly on the things that matter most to you."&nbsp;

Acknowledging hardships that the UK faced, Sunak said that "it's been a very tough year for the UK" and that it needs to change its way of politics to be a fairer, greener and more dynamic country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

Indian-origin British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in his first New Year message on Saturday said that "UK's problem won't go away in 2023," at the end of "tough" 12 months.

Indian-origin British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in his first New Year message on Saturday said that "UK's problem won't go away in 2023," at the end of "tough" 12 months. The year 2022 has been tough for the UK in economic and political aspects. Also read | UK PM Sunak surprises public sector workers with call to say thanks In the video, Sunak said, "I'm not going to pretend that all our problems will go away in the New Year." But promised to work 'relentlessly' to bring out the "very best of Britain" in the coming months, reported PTI. "But 2023 will give us the opportunity to showcase the very best of Britain on the world stage, defending freedom and democracy wherever we find it under threat," Sunak said. Watch | Boris Johnson beats Rishi Sunak on Tory popularity chart Sunak, who took charge at the end of October, promised to work to bring things back on track including its stance on NHS and plans to tackle the backlog with more funding, more doctors and more nurses. He also said that the government is working to stop illegal immigration and stop criminals from abusing UK's asylum system. He also highlighted the global challenges, the ongoing "barbaric" Russia-Ukraine war" led to. "This has had a profound economic impact around the world, which the UK is not immune to. Now, I know many of you have felt that impact at home. That's why this government has taken difficult but fair decisions to get borrowing and debt under control. And it's because of those decisions that we've been able to help the most vulnerable with the rising cost of energy bills," Sunak said. Also read | Ex-UK minister Alok Sharma among Indian origin people knighted by King Charles "Three months ago, I stood at the steps of Downing Street and promised I would work relentlessly on the things that matter most to you." Acknowledging hardships that the UK faced, Sunak said that "it's been a very tough year for the UK" and that it needs to change its way of politics to be a fairer, greener and more dynamic country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK PM Rishi Sunak says ‘problems won’t go away in New Year,’ promises ‘very best of Britain’

Over 200 emergency doctors and medical officers appointed by the government to improve patient care in Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) have not received their salaries for four months due to lack of funds.&nbsp;The officials revealed that the salary got delayed because of the unavailability of funds, long process of appointments and verification by boards of Khyber Medical University and Pakistan Medical Commission, said a Dawn report.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/daya-bheel-hindu-woman-in-pakistan-raped-beheaded-india-seeks-answers-547824">Also read |&nbsp;Daya Bheel: Hindu woman in Pakistan raped and beheaded; India seeks answers</a>

Complaining about the situation, women officers said that they are the most affected ones as their families depend on them. They said that they chose the job due to better salary despite security concerns but are not getting paid now.&nbsp;

The officers told Dawn that the medics were hired in April 2021 under the Accelerated Implementation Programme (AIP) to take care of district areas. They said that the government sanctioned 300 positions for medical officers with a monthly package of Rs 200,000 ($2,418).&nbsp;

Officials added that against 300 posts, only 283 appointments were made but many doctors either resigned or were terminated over legal reasons bringing the tally down to 172.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/balochistans-anti-cpec-protests-intensify-amid-attacks-on-pakistani-troops-547622">Also read |&nbsp;Balochistan's anti-CPEC protests intensify amid attacks on Pakistani troops</a>

The government again&nbsp;announced over 200 vacancies of emergency medical officers with a monthly salary of Rs 300,000 but couldn't find candidates, so only 36 appointments were made.&nbsp;Similarly, they said that the government announced 100 posts of medical specialists with a monthly package of Rs 450,000 but could fill&nbsp;18 only.&nbsp;

The officer said that due to such initiatives medical facilities and care in tribal areas of the south Asian country have improved but are not working any more due to delayed salaries.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Over 200 emergency doctors and medical officers appointed by the government to improve patient care in Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) have not received their salaries for four months due to lack of funds.

Over 200 emergency doctors and medical officers appointed by the government to improve patient care in Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) have not received their salaries for four months due to lack of funds. The officials revealed that the salary got delayed because of the unavailability of funds, long process of appointments and verification by boards of Khyber Medical University and Pakistan Medical Commission, said a Dawn report. Also read | Daya Bheel: Hindu woman in Pakistan raped and beheaded; India seeks answers Complaining about the situation, women officers said that they are the most affected ones as their families depend on them. They said that they chose the job due to better salary despite security concerns but are not getting paid now. The officers told Dawn that the medics were hired in April 2021 under the Accelerated Implementation Programme (AIP) to take care of district areas. They said that the government sanctioned 300 positions for medical officers with a monthly package of Rs 200,000 ($2,418). Officials added that against 300 posts, only 283 appointments were made but many doctors either resigned or were terminated over legal reasons bringing the tally down to 172. Also read | Balochistan's anti-CPEC protests intensify amid attacks on Pakistani troops The government again announced over 200 vacancies of emergency medical officers with a monthly salary of Rs 300,000 but couldn't find candidates, so only 36 appointments were made. Similarly, they said that the government announced 100 posts of medical specialists with a monthly package of Rs 450,000 but could fill 18 only. The officer said that due to such initiatives medical facilities and care in tribal areas of the south Asian country have improved but are not working any more due to delayed salaries. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Around 200 Pak doctors in FATA not paid salaries since four months due to paucity of funds

Another case of a data breach makes headlines and this time it's at Twitter. A hacker named "Ryushi" has demanded $200,000 to hand over the data of 400 million users including some celebrities, and politicians.&nbsp;A probe has been launched by Ireland's watchdog. The Data Protection Commission (DPC) said that it "will examine Twitter's compliance with data protection law in relation to that security issue".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2022-events-that-happened-this-year-that-no-one-saw-coming-548116">Also read |&nbsp;Yearender 2022: Events that happened this year that no one saw coming</a>

According to BBC, in the online post the hacker&nbsp;warned Twitter that to avoid buying a large data protection fine is to buy the data &nbsp;"exclusively".

The details include email addresses and phone numbers of users, including some celebrities and politicians.&nbsp;

The sale of hacked data was first raised by Hudson Rock, a cybercrime intelligence company. A firm's chief technology officer told BBC that a number of clues appeared to support the hacker's claim.&nbsp;

The chief further claimed that this breach is different from the one in March as the details of almost 5.4 million Twitter accounts were published.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/bytedance-finds-former-tiktok-employees-hacked-data-of-2-us-journalists-545948">Also read |&nbsp;ByteDance finds former TikTok employees hacked data of two US journalists</a>

The hacker has said that the data was breached and compiled by taking an advantage of a problem with the system that lets computer programmes connect with Twitter.&nbsp;

The DPC announced that it was investigating the earlier breach on December 23.&nbsp;According to media reports, the hacker is aware of the loss and damage the data can do.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Another case of a data breach makes headlines and this time it's at Twitter. A hacker named "Ryushi" has demanded $200,000 to hand over the data of 400 million users including some celebrities, and politicians.

Another case of a data breach makes headlines and this time it's at Twitter. A hacker named "Ryushi" has demanded $200,000 to hand over the data of 400 million users including some celebrities, and politicians. A probe has been launched by Ireland's watchdog. The Data Protection Commission (DPC) said that it "will examine Twitter's compliance with data protection law in relation to that security issue". Also read | Yearender 2022: Events that happened this year that no one saw coming According to BBC, in the online post the hacker warned Twitter that to avoid buying a large data protection fine is to buy the data "exclusively". The details include email addresses and phone numbers of users, including some celebrities and politicians. The sale of hacked data was first raised by Hudson Rock, a cybercrime intelligence company. A firm's chief technology officer told BBC that a number of clues appeared to support the hacker's claim. The chief further claimed that this breach is different from the one in March as the details of almost 5.4 million Twitter accounts were published. Also read | ByteDance finds former TikTok employees hacked data of two US journalists The hacker has said that the data was breached and compiled by taking an advantage of a problem with the system that lets computer programmes connect with Twitter. The DPC announced that it was investigating the earlier breach on December 23. According to media reports, the hacker is aware of the loss and damage the data can do. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Another data breach at Twitter, details of over 400 million users up for sale; probe on

Citing TikTok as a 'high risk' security concern, the Chinese short-video app has been banned from all federal government devices across the US. The only exception is for law enforcement and national security agencies who can use the app in special cases for security research purposes.

Citing TikTok as a 'high risk' security concern, the Chinese short-video app has been banned from all federal government devices across the US. The only exception is for law enforcement and national security agencies who can use the app in special cases for security research purposes. The decision essentially means that nearly four million government employees will have to mandatorily remove TikTok from the mobile devices and other gadgets issued to them. Biden's recently signed $1.7 trillion spending bill contains a provision that outlaws the ByteDance-owned app. “We’re disappointed that Congress has moved to ban TikTok on government devices - a political gesture that will do nothing to advance national security interests - rather than encouraging the Administration to conclude its national security review,” said Brooke Oberwetter, TikTok spokesperson regarding the ban. WATCH | TikTok says 'disappointed over the ban' in US × Notably, the decision comes in the backdrop of several states across the country coming out with their policies banning the app. It was South Dakota governor Kristi Noem that set the ball rolling last month by issuing an executive order and banning the use of the app. “South Dakota will have no part in the intelligence gathering operations of nations who hate us," said Noem in a statement posted on Twitter. Afterwards, it was North Dakota, Alabama, Utah Maryland and Texas that followed the suit. Previously, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) also warned against data leaks through the app. Director Christopher Wray told a House panel that potential Chinese government access to users’ data or software through the app is reason to be “extremely concerned”. Wray added that ByteDance embeds specific application programming interfaces (APIs) in the app which gives Beijing access to “control data collection of millions of users or control the recommendation algorithm". Read more: Wary of China, US state of South Dakota bans TikTok on state-owned devices The crusade against the Chinese app was started by former president Donald Trump. However, after Biden came to power, he withdrew Trump's executive orders that sought to ban the downloads. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

TikTok banned on all federal government devices in the US

Six years of Donald Trump’s tax returns were made public by a congressional panel, ending the former president’s long-running effort to break precedent and keep them secret.

US: Committee release security and bank account numbers, Trump paid $1500 income tax for 2016-17

Former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan's appeal to terminate a defamation case against him has been rejected by the Supreme Court. The court dismissed the appeal by 2-1 majority.

Pakistan: Supreme Court dismisses Imran Khan's appeal in defamation case

Iran witnesses a year of revolution as anti-hijab protests rock the Islamic regime. It's been a year of bloodshed and protests around the country by the citizens. The rage of protests have been on even after 100 days.

Iran: Anti-hijab protests rock the nation, story of a death and a 'bloody' clampdown

The 95-year-old Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI passed away in Vatican City after a period of poor health. In a statement from the Vatican, Benedict, who was the first pope in almost 600 years to resign from office rather than keep it for life, passed away on Saturday.

Vatican: Former Pope Benedict XVI dies at 95, bells ring to confirm his death

Less than two days before his bitter leftist challenger Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is expected to enter office, outgoing Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro flew to Florida on Friday after giving a tearful message to his fans.

Brazil: President leaves country avoiding inauguration of Prez-elect, flies to Florida

President Vladimir Putin told his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping that relations between Russia and China are at their "best in history," and that Moscow would want to expand its military cooperation with Beijing.

Russia-China Ties: Russia's Putin invites China's Xi Jinping for a state visit?

In an effort to smooth over their tense relations, Beijing and Washington have nominated Qin Gang, China's ambassador to the United States and a dependable assistant to President Xi Jinping, as their new foreign minister. Wang Yi, who served as foreign minister for the previous ten years, is replaced by Qin, 56.

China: Qin Gang becomes nation's youngest Foreign Minister

Cristiano Ronaldo has signed a two-year contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. After giving an angry television interview in which he claimed to feel betrayed by Manchester United and that he did not respect their Dutch boss Erik ten Hag, the 37-year-old attacker departed the club last month.

Al-Nassr confirm the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo on a free transfer

Bells ring in the Vatican to confirm former Pope Benedict XVI's death

Pakistan continues to toughen its stance on illegal Afghan immigrants. From detention to deportation, Islamabad seems to be cracking down on Afghan migrants. The Punjab police conducted another operation in Pakistan's Rawalpindi city.

Pakistan: Government continues its crackdown on undocumented Afghan migrants

The world bids adieu to 2022. A year marked by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Covid-19 pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, the people around the world are welcoming or set to welcome 2023.

The World bids adieu to 2022; amid Covid restrictions, war, world rings in 2023

Three years after the world recorded its first ever case of coronavirus, the central Chinese city of Wuhan and the rest of China once again is in the news thanks to a massive surge in Covid-19 infections.

China: Covid-19 cases on the rise, WHO urges to share real-time data

The Iran military is holding joint Naval Air and ground exercises in the Gulf. The drills have been organized after Iranian authorities continued their crackdown on anti-government protests which have been underway for over three months now.

Iran: Holds joint military drills, Zolfaghar-1401 features fighter jets, drones, submarines

Pope Benedict XVI: The first pontiff in some 600 years to resign

For the tribes in the Indian state of Odisha, it would be the delicious taste and nutritional value of the red ants that they would remember and due to this, a popular red chutney in the state has been considered for a geographical indication of GI tag.

WION Fineprint: Odisha applies for GI tag for local 'Kai Chutney' prepared by the tribes

It was a year of many ups and downs for Elon Musk. Apart from being the Tesla Chief and the Twitter CEO, the man has been in the news throughout 2022 and now he's become the first person in history to lose 200 billion dollars.

US: Elon Musk loses $200 billion in a year, entered 2022 with $340 billion

As the world is celebrating the New Years with fireworks, Russia has targeted the Ukrainian Capital Kyiv along with several other regions in the country. According to Ukrainian officials, Russia has launched dozens of missiles towards cities.

War in Ukraine: Explosions shake Ukrainian capital city after missile warning

In the New Year, besides greetings, parties, it is certain that resolutions will remain a main thing of anyone's plans. Have you ever wondered what are the resolutions that the different nations would take? Let's find out.

WION Fineprint: Russia resolves to win the Ukraine war | China to cope-up with Covid-19 in 2023

The first pontiff in some 600 years to resign

Former Pope Benedict XVI died at his Vatican residence at the age of 95, the Vatican announced on Saturday. In other news,&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday in his New Year's eve address, Xi said that the "light of hope is right in front of us"&nbsp;talking&nbsp;about the current coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in the country. Finally, at least one person died and several were injured on Saturday (December 31) after missile strikes on Kyiv, the capital city of war-hit Ukraine, officials claimed.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pope-benedict-xvi-passes-away-at-95-in-vatican-city-548306">Former Pope Benedict XVI passes away at 95 in Vatican City</a>

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He led the Catholic Church for about eight years until 2013 and&nbsp;was one of the oldest Popes to be ever elected.&nbsp;Born Joseph Ratzinger in Germany, Benedict was 78 when in 2005 when he was elected Pope. Besides being one of the oldest Popes, he was the first from Germany in over 1000 years&nbsp;to be elected as head of the Catholic Church in Vatican City.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-security-forces-shoot-dead-man-during-memorial-for-protesters-548373">Iran: Security forces shoot dead man during memorial for protesters</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/27/306552-untitled-design-21.png?imwidth=1920" />

Norway-based human rights group Hengaw said on Saturday (January 31) that a 22-year-old man was killed as Iran's security force fired on a crowd in Kurdish-populated western region of the country. The death has come more than 100 days after Mahsa Amini's untimely demise in custody.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/light-of-hope-in-front-of-us-xi-jinping-weighs-in-on-covid-situation-in-new-year-address-548368">'Light of hope in front of us': Xi Jinping calls for more efforts, unity to tackle Covid in 2023</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/31/322316-chinese-president-xi-jinping-2.png?imwidth=1920" />

In a televised address,&nbsp;Xi said, "Epidemic prevention and control is entering a new phase... Everyone is working resolutely, and the light of hope is right in front of us."&nbsp;

"At present, epidemic prevention and control is entering a new phase, it is still a time of struggle, everyone is persevering and working hard, and the dawn is ahead. Let's work harder, persistence means victory, and unity means victory," Xi added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-records-lowest-death-toll-in-2022-since-war-began-3825-dead-including-321-children-says-war-monitor-548356">Syria records lowest deaths in 2022 since war began; 3,825 dead including 321 kids, says war monitor</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/31/322310-untitled-design-2022-12-31t184624109.png?imwidth=1920" />

A war monitor on Saturday said that this year, Syria recorded the lowest death toll since the war began a decade ago.&nbsp;In 2022, at least 3,825 people died, AFP reported.&nbsp;Among the 1,627 persons killed this year, there were 321 children, said UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.&nbsp;Over 500 jihadists have died this year.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-at-least-one-dead-as-multiple-blasts-rock-kyiv-548357">Russia-Ukraine war: At least one dead as multiple blasts rock Kyiv</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/31/322309-russian-missile-strike.png?imwidth=1920" />

Air raid sirens rang out in the Ukrainian capital after multiple blasts shook Kyiv on Saturday afternoon. According to the journalists of the news agency AFP, at least ten explosions were heard in the city. Local authorities told that the air raid alerted the residents, urging them to go to shelters.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-in-new-year-video-message-warns-that-problems-wont-go-away-in-2023-548339">UK PM Rishi Sunak says ‘problems won’t go away in New Year,’ promises ‘very best of Britain’</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/31/322299-untitled-design-2022-12-31t173105106.png?imwidth=1920" />

The 42-year-old Indian-origin British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in his first New Year message on Saturday said that "UK's problem won't go away in 2023," at the end of&nbsp; "tough" 12 months.&nbsp;The year 2022 has been tough for the UK in economic and political aspects.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aung-san-suu-kyis-party-condemns-latest-jail-sentence-548382">Aung San Suu Kyi's party condemns latest jail sentence</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/12/303101-new-wion-4.png?imwidth=1920" />

Jailed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's political party on Saturday (December 31) condemned her latest sentence and said that it would continue to oppose the military junta whose court imposed the it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-king-charles-to-indian-pm-modi-world-pays-tribute-to-former-catholic-church-leader-pope-benedict-xvi-548378">From King Charles to Indian PM Modi: World pays tribute to former Catholic Church leader Pope Benedict XVI</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/31/322324-untitled-design-2022-12-31t205354108.png?imwidth=1920" />

Following the confirmation of Pope Benedict XVI, former Catholic Church leader, tribute to have poured in from world leaders.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China: Covid-19 cases on the rise, WHO urges to share real-time data

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-covid-19-cases-on-the-rise-who-urges-to-share-real-time-data-548381/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Government continues its crackdown on undocumented Afghan migrants

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Former Pope Benedict XVI died at his Vatican residence at the age of 95, the Vatican announced on Saturday. In other news, Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday in his New Year's eve address, Xi said that the "light of hope is right in front of us" talking about the current coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in the country.

Former Pope Benedict XVI died at his Vatican residence at the age of 95, the Vatican announced on Saturday. In other news, Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday in his New Year's eve address, Xi said that the "light of hope is right in front of us" talking about the current coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in the country. Finally, at least one person died and several were injured on Saturday (December 31) after missile strikes on Kyiv, the capital city of war-hit Ukraine, officials claimed. Click on the headlines to read more: Former Pope Benedict XVI passes away at 95 in Vatican City He led the Catholic Church for about eight years until 2013 and was one of the oldest Popes to be ever elected. Born Joseph Ratzinger in Germany, Benedict was 78 when in 2005 when he was elected Pope. Besides being one of the oldest Popes, he was the first from Germany in over 1000 years to be elected as head of the Catholic Church in Vatican City. Iran: Security forces shoot dead man during memorial for protesters Norway-based human rights group Hengaw said on Saturday (January 31) that a 22-year-old man was killed as Iran's security force fired on a crowd in Kurdish-populated western region of the country. The death has come more than 100 days after Mahsa Amini's untimely demise in custody. 'Light of hope in front of us': Xi Jinping calls for more efforts, unity to tackle Covid in 2023 In a televised address, Xi said, "Epidemic prevention and control is entering a new phase... Everyone is working resolutely, and the light of hope is right in front of us." "At present, epidemic prevention and control is entering a new phase, it is still a time of struggle, everyone is persevering and working hard, and the dawn is ahead. Let's work harder, persistence means victory, and unity means victory," Xi added. Syria records lowest deaths in 2022 since war began; 3,825 dead including 321 kids, says war monitor A war monitor on Saturday said that this year, Syria recorded the lowest death toll since the war began a decade ago. In 2022, at least 3,825 people died, AFP reported. Among the 1,627 persons killed this year, there were 321 children, said UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Over 500 jihadists have died this year. Russia-Ukraine war: At least one dead as multiple blasts rock Kyiv Air raid sirens rang out in the Ukrainian capital after multiple blasts shook Kyiv on Saturday afternoon. According to the journalists of the news agency AFP, at least ten explosions were heard in the city. Local authorities told that the air raid alerted the residents, urging them to go to shelters. UK PM Rishi Sunak says ‘problems won’t go away in New Year,’ promises ‘very best of Britain’ The 42-year-old Indian-origin British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in his first New Year message on Saturday said that "UK's problem won't go away in 2023," at the end of "tough" 12 months. The year 2022 has been tough for the UK in economic and political aspects. Aung San Suu Kyi's party condemns latest jail sentence Jailed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's political party on Saturday (December 31) condemned her latest sentence and said that it would continue to oppose the military junta whose court imposed the it. From King Charles to Indian PM Modi: World pays tribute to former Catholic Church leader Pope Benedict XVI Following the confirmation of Pope Benedict XVI, former Catholic Church leader, tribute to have poured in from world leaders. Watch | China: Covid-19 cases on the rise, WHO urges to share real-time data Watch | Pakistan: Government continues its crackdown on undocumented Afghan migrants

Top 10 world news: Former Pope Benedict XVI passes away, multiple blasts rock Kyiv on New Year's Eve, & more

A war monitor on Saturday said that this year, Syria recorded the lowest death toll since the war began a decade ago.&nbsp;In 2022, at least 3,825 people died, AFP reported.&nbsp;Among the 1,627 persons killed this year, there were 321 children, said UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.&nbsp;Over 500 jihadists have died this year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/attack-in-eastern-syria-kills-at-least-10-oil-field-workers-548047/amp">Also read |&nbsp;Terror attack in eastern Syria kills at least 10 oil field workers, Islamic State blamed</a>

Adding more casualties, the Observatory said that some 627 government security force personnel and 217 fighters loyal to Bashar al-Assad were among the dead.

Last year, it put the toll at 3,476 but revised it up to 3,882.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-russia-defence-ministers-hold-constructive-talks-in-moscow-547648">Also read |&nbsp;Türkiye, Syria, Russia defence ministers hold ‘constructive’ talks in Moscow</a>

Although, the war has waned a bit in the last three years following the suppression of anti-government protests in 2011.&nbsp;

Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Observatory told AFP that a huge number of deaths occurred due to security chaos, and strikes launched by Israel and the IS group in the Syrian desert.

According to reports, the war has killed almost half a million people since it broke out a decade ago.

Türkiye&nbsp;has threatened to attack Syrian Kurds on the ground&nbsp;several times.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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A war monitor on Saturday said that this year, Syria recorded the lowest death toll since the war began a decade ago. In 2022, at least 3,825 people died, AFP reported.

A war monitor on Saturday said that this year, Syria recorded the lowest death toll since the war began a decade ago. In 2022, at least 3,825 people died, AFP reported. Among the 1,627 persons killed this year, there were 321 children, said UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Over 500 jihadists have died this year. Also read | Terror attack in eastern Syria kills at least 10 oil field workers, Islamic State blamed Adding more casualties, the Observatory said that some 627 government security force personnel and 217 fighters loyal to Bashar al-Assad were among the dead. Last year, it put the toll at 3,476 but revised it up to 3,882. Also read | Türkiye, Syria, Russia defence ministers hold ‘constructive’ talks in Moscow Although, the war has waned a bit in the last three years following the suppression of anti-government protests in 2011. Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Observatory told AFP that a huge number of deaths occurred due to security chaos, and strikes launched by Israel and the IS group in the Syrian desert. According to reports, the war has killed almost half a million people since it broke out a decade ago. Türkiye has threatened to attack Syrian Kurds on the ground several times. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Syria records lowest deaths in 2022 since war began; 3,825 dead including 321 kids, says war monitor

Amid fears of China kickstarting yet another cycle of the pandemic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday urged Beijing to release real-time data on the prevailing situation in the country.

Amid fears of China kickstarting yet another cycle of the pandemic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday urged Beijing to release real-time data on the prevailing situation in the country. “WHO again asked for regular sharing of specific and real-time data on the epidemiological situation," said the global health body before adding, "Including more genetic sequencing data, data on disease impact including hospitalisations, ICU admissions and deaths, and data on vaccinations delivered and vaccination status, especially in vulnerable people and those over 60 years old." WHO released the statement after a meeting with China's National Health Commission (NHC) and the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration. WATCH | Global alarm over China's Covid surge, travel curbs imposed on Chinese travelers × WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus took to Twitter and reiterated that he demanded transparency from China. "My team met with #China representatives virtually to discuss the current surge in #COVID19 cases. @WHO again stressed the importance of transparency and regular sharing of data to formulate accurate risk assessments and to inform effective response." My team met with #China representatives virtually to discuss the current surge in #COVID19 cases. @WHO again stressed the importance of transparency and regular sharing of data to formulate accurate risk assessments and to inform effective response. https://t.co/FmELvtApbT — Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) December 30, 2022 × WHO requesting the real-time data stems from the decision by NHC which stated that it will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 cases in the country. "Relevant COVID information will be published by the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention for reference and research," said the NHC in a statement. Read more: China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers There has been a thick cloud of uncertainty regarding China's COVID-19 numbers for the last three years. While the rest of the world managed to tame the virus by being transparent, China, through its hush-hush strategy coupled with its 'zero-Covid' policy managed to keep the pandemic alive. According to a Bloomberg report, the minutes of an internal meeting of the NHC held earlier this month showed that 248 million people, or nearly 18 per cent of the country's population, likely contracted Covid in the first 20 days of December. Read more: Leaked documents show nearly 250 million Chinese contracted Covid in December (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WHO asks China to share real-time COVID-19 data amid uncertainty over actual numbers

Jammu and Kashmir Police has called the year 2022 a very successful one in&nbsp;anti-terror operations in the Kashmir region. The police informed that 172 terrorists have been killed in over 90 operations in the Kashmir Valley. Among those killed, 42 were foreign terrorists, mostly belonging to Pakistan.&nbsp;

“During the year 2022, total of 93 successful encounters took place in Kashmir in which 172 terrorists, including 42 foreign terrorists, were neutralised. Maximum terrorists neutralised were from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)/The Resistant Front (TRF) (108) outfit followed by JeM (35), HM (22), Al-Badr (4) and AGuH (3) outfits,” said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

Kashmir Police has also noted the decline in the number of youths joining the terror outfits in the valley. According to data, there is a decline of around 37 per cent in recruitment in terror organisations. And most of the recently joined terrorists have already been killed in the encounters, said police officials.&nbsp;

“This year, 100 fresh recruitments in&nbsp;terrorist ranks were reported, showing a decline of 37 per cent compared to last year. Maximum (74) joined LeT. Out of total recruitment, 65 terrorists were neutralised in encounters, 17 were arrested, and 18 terrorists are still active,” said Kumar.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-terrorists-of-lashkar-e-taiba-killed-in-shopian-encounter-544663">Read more:&nbsp;Three terrorists of Lashkar-e-Taiba killed in Shopian encounter</a>

Jammu and Kashmir Police also said that the lifespan of the newly recruited terrorists has been brought down drastically as well. Among the 172 local terrorists killed this year, 65 of them were newly recruited and most of them were killed within the first month of joining.&nbsp;

“The life span of newly recruited terrorists declined drastically. Out of total 65 newly recruited terrorists killed this year, 58 (89 per cent) were neutralised within first month of their joining,” added ADGP Kumar.&nbsp;

With the authorities running a major crackdown operation throughout the year, a huge quantity of arms and ammunition have been recovered in various operations across the valley from the terrorists. With the weapons arsenal depleted, the terror outfits are facing a tough time.&nbsp;

“This year huge quantities of weapons (360) were recovered during encounters and modules' busting which include 121 AK series rifles, eight (8)&nbsp;M4 Carbine &amp; 231 pistols. Besides, timely seizure of IEDs, Sticky Bombs and Grenades averted major terror incidents."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dg-police-says-all-target-killing-cases-solved-in-kashmir-545244">Read more:&nbsp;DG Police says all target killing cases solved in Kashmir</a>

Although one of the major challenges for the security forces in the year 2022 was civilian killings. Jammu and Kashmir Police claimed to have killed all the terrorists involved in the civilian killings in the region. Around 29 civilians were killed during various attacks in the Valley.&nbsp;

“During the year, total 29 civilians killed by terrorists include 21 locals (six Hindu including three Kashmiri Pandits and 15 Muslims) and eight (8) from other states. All terrorists involved in these terror crimes have been neutralised except Basit Dar and&nbsp;Adil Wani who will be neutralised soon,” said Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

Security forces also had to bear losses during the year 2022. Multiple attacks by terrorists were carried out across the Kashmir Valley in which 26 security personnel lost their lives.&nbsp;

“During the year, total 26 security forces personnel including 14 JKP personnel attained martyrdom during terror attacks/encounters. Majority of terrorists involved in these terror crimes have been neutralised,” said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

However, Jammu and Kashmir Police said that there have been major changes in the mindset of the people in the region. They claim that house owners are denying shelter to the terrorists and parents are not feeling proud of their children joining the terror ranks.&nbsp;

"Two remarkable changes observed in society; House owners started denying shelter to terrorists and parents don’t feel proud if their wards join terrorism. Rather they appeal them to return, curse terrorists openly and&nbsp;work with JKP for the return of their wards," said Vijay Kumar, ADGP.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Jammu and Kashmir Police has called the year 2022 a very successful one in anti-terror operations in the Kashmir region. The police informed that 172 terrorists have been killed in over 90 operations in the Kashmir Valley.

Jammu and Kashmir Police has called the year 2022 a very successful one in anti-terror operations in the Kashmir region. The police informed that 172 terrorists have been killed in over 90 operations in the Kashmir Valley. Among those killed, 42 were foreign terrorists, mostly belonging to Pakistan. “During the year 2022, total of 93 successful encounters took place in Kashmir in which 172 terrorists, including 42 foreign terrorists, were neutralised. Maximum terrorists neutralised were from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)/The Resistant Front (TRF) (108) outfit followed by JeM (35), HM (22), Al-Badr (4) and AGuH (3) outfits,” said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police. Kashmir Police has also noted the decline in the number of youths joining the terror outfits in the valley. According to data, there is a decline of around 37 per cent in recruitment in terror organisations. And most of the recently joined terrorists have already been killed in the encounters, said police officials. “This year, 100 fresh recruitments in terrorist ranks were reported, showing a decline of 37 per cent compared to last year. Maximum (74) joined LeT. Out of total recruitment, 65 terrorists were neutralised in encounters, 17 were arrested, and 18 terrorists are still active,” said Kumar. Read more: Three terrorists of Lashkar-e-Taiba killed in Shopian encounter Jammu and Kashmir Police also said that the lifespan of the newly recruited terrorists has been brought down drastically as well. Among the 172 local terrorists killed this year, 65 of them were newly recruited and most of them were killed within the first month of joining. “The life span of newly recruited terrorists declined drastically. Out of total 65 newly recruited terrorists killed this year, 58 (89 per cent) were neutralised within first month of their joining,” added ADGP Kumar. With the authorities running a major crackdown operation throughout the year, a huge quantity of arms and ammunition have been recovered in various operations across the valley from the terrorists. With the weapons arsenal depleted, the terror outfits are facing a tough time. “This year huge quantities of weapons (360) were recovered during encounters and modules' busting which include 121 AK series rifles, eight (8) M4 Carbine & 231 pistols. Besides, timely seizure of IEDs, Sticky Bombs and Grenades averted major terror incidents." Read more: DG Police says all target killing cases solved in Kashmir Although one of the major challenges for the security forces in the year 2022 was civilian killings. Jammu and Kashmir Police claimed to have killed all the terrorists involved in the civilian killings in the region. Around 29 civilians were killed during various attacks in the Valley. “During the year, total 29 civilians killed by terrorists include 21 locals (six Hindu including three Kashmiri Pandits and 15 Muslims) and eight (8) from other states. All terrorists involved in these terror crimes have been neutralised except Basit Dar and Adil Wani who will be neutralised soon,” said Vijay Kumar. Security forces also had to bear losses during the year 2022. Multiple attacks by terrorists were carried out across the Kashmir Valley in which 26 security personnel lost their lives. “During the year, total 26 security forces personnel including 14 JKP personnel attained martyrdom during terror attacks/encounters. Majority of terrorists involved in these terror crimes have been neutralised,” said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police. However, Jammu and Kashmir Police said that there have been major changes in the mindset of the people in the region. They claim that house owners are denying shelter to the terrorists and parents are not feeling proud of their children joining the terror ranks. "Two remarkable changes observed in society; House owners started denying shelter to terrorists and parents don’t feel proud if their wards join terrorism. Rather they appeal them to return, curse terrorists openly and work with JKP for the return of their wards," said Vijay Kumar, ADGP. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: 172 terrorists killed in 2022, Jammu & Kashmir Police calls it a successful year

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