Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas told a special session of the Turkish parliament on Thursday (August 15) that he would travel to Gaza, while adding, "Our life is not more worthy than the life of a child."

Abbas said this as the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reported that the death toll in the Israeli assaults so far has crossed 40,000.&nbsp;

<h2>I'll go to Gaza: Abbas</h2>

To thunderous applause from Turkish lawmakers, Abbas said, "I have decided to go to Gaza with other brothers from the Palestinian leadership."

He said he would do that "even if this would cost my life".

"Our life is not more worthy than the life of a child," he added.

Abbas, the leader of the Fatah Palestinian movement, a rival to Hamas as per AFP, is based in Ramallah in the West Bank.&nbsp;

The Gaza Strip is controlled by Hamas, who took power in 2007. Nobody apart from a handful of humanitarian workers is allowed to visit the Palestinian group-controlled territory.

Abbas, as per AFP, has not visited the Gaza Strip since 2007.

"Gaza is ours as a whole," stressed Abbas, adding, "We don't accept any solution that would divide our territories," he told the Turkish parliament he was addressing during a special session.&nbsp;

"There cannot be a Palestinian state without Gaza. Our people will not surrender," he promised.

<h2>Abbas prays for assassinated Hamas leader&nbsp;Haniyeh</h2>

Abbas also commemorated Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Tehran, from the Turkish parliament floor.&nbsp;

He said prayers for the assassinated leader, whose picture, framed by red carnations, was seated in one of the front chairs in the parliament.

Ismail Haniyeh, as per the report, was a frequent visitor to Turkey and had close ties with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has been a fierce critic of Israeli conduct in the war in Gaza. He has even labelled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "the butcher of Gaza".

Commending Erdogan's "courageous" stance, Abbas also slammed the international community for its silence on the massacres carried out by Israel.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas told a special session of the Turkish parliament on Thursday (August 15) that he would travel to Gaza, while adding, "Our life is not more worthy than the life of a child.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas told a special session of the Turkish parliament on Thursday (August 15) that he would travel to Gaza, while adding, "Our life is not more worthy than the life of a child." Abbas said this as the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reported that the death toll in the Israeli assaults so far has crossed 40,000. I'll go to Gaza: Abbas To thunderous applause from Turkish lawmakers, Abbas said, "I have decided to go to Gaza with other brothers from the Palestinian leadership." He said he would do that "even if this would cost my life". "Our life is not more worthy than the life of a child," he added. Abbas, the leader of the Fatah Palestinian movement, a rival to Hamas as per AFP, is based in Ramallah in the West Bank. The Gaza Strip is controlled by Hamas, who took power in 2007. Nobody apart from a handful of humanitarian workers is allowed to visit the Palestinian group-controlled territory. Abbas, as per AFP, has not visited the Gaza Strip since 2007. "Gaza is ours as a whole," stressed Abbas, adding, "We don't accept any solution that would divide our territories," he told the Turkish parliament he was addressing during a special session. "There cannot be a Palestinian state without Gaza. Our people will not surrender," he promised. Abbas prays for assassinated Hamas leader Haniyeh Abbas also commemorated Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Tehran, from the Turkish parliament floor. He said prayers for the assassinated leader, whose picture, framed by red carnations, was seated in one of the front chairs in the parliament. Ismail Haniyeh, as per the report, was a frequent visitor to Turkey and had close ties with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has been a fierce critic of Israeli conduct in the war in Gaza. He has even labelled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "the butcher of Gaza". Commending Erdogan's "courageous" stance, Abbas also slammed the international community for its silence on the massacres carried out by Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas vows to visit Gaza, says ‘our life is not more worthy’ than a child’s

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (August 14) condemned Israel for its "psychological warfare" aimed at forcing Tehran to reconsider retaliation for the assassination of Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the country.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:84,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1976}">Retreat will invite ‘divine wrath’</h2>

Slamming the "enemy psychological warfare," Iran's supreme leader Khamenei stressed that any "non-tactical retreat — be it military, political, or economic — invites 'divine wrath', as per the Holy Quran".

Khamenei's statement comes just weeks after Hamas leader Haniyeh was killed by a strike in Tehran after attending the inauguration of Iran's new president Masoud Pezeshkian.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:244,&quot;w&quot;:620,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2136}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-line-israeli-military-cant-do-anything-more-against-hamas-in-gaza-report-750293">'End of line': Israeli military can't do anything more against Hamas in Gaza - Report</a>

Iran has blamed Israel for the assassination and soon after the killing, the Supreme leader Khamenei issued an order to strike Israel.

Khamenei, in a public statement on July 31 — the day of the assassination — &nbsp;proclaimed "we see avenging his blood our duty," as the assassination&nbsp;happened on Iran's territory.

In his recent statement, Khamenei said, "Governments that yield to the demands of today's dominant powers, regardless of the size or strength of the nations they represent, could defy these pressures if they draw on the strength of their people and accurately assess their adversaries' true, unembellished capabilities," Khamenei said.

As per Iran International, he also criticised the longstanding habit of "exaggerating" enemy capabilities to instil fear as he pointed to what he described as US, British, and Israeli efforts since the 1979 Islamic revolution in Iran.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:539,&quot;w&quot;:488,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2431}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-approved-plans-to-sabotage-nord-stream-pipelines-report-750358">Zelensky approved plans to sabotage Nord Stream pipelines: Report</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:575,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2467}">When will Iran attack Israel?</h2>

Iran has been biding its time to retaliate against Israel. The nation has been leveraging psychological tactics, building suspense on when the retaliation might happen. Twice already, the US has given its estimate on when the strike may happen.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Iran contends that it has the "legal right" to respond to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week.&nbsp;

"No one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime," Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani had said during a regular news conference, in obvious reference to Israel.

However, even as he asserted Iran's right to retaliate, Nasser Kanani emphasised that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions in the region," which have been on the rise since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in early October and escalated further following the fatal attack on Haniyeh in Tehran.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (August 14) condemned Israel for its "psychological warfare" aimed at forcing Tehran to reconsider retaliation for the assassination of Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the country.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (August 14) condemned Israel for its "psychological warfare" aimed at forcing Tehran to reconsider retaliation for the assassination of Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the country. Retreat will invite ‘divine wrath’ Slamming the "enemy psychological warfare," Iran's supreme leader Khamenei stressed that any "non-tactical retreat — be it military, political, or economic — invites 'divine wrath', as per the Holy Quran". Khamenei's statement comes just weeks after Hamas leader Haniyeh was killed by a strike in Tehran after attending the inauguration of Iran's new president Masoud Pezeshkian. Also read | 'End of line': Israeli military can't do anything more against Hamas in Gaza - Report Iran has blamed Israel for the assassination and soon after the killing, the Supreme leader Khamenei issued an order to strike Israel. Khamenei, in a public statement on July 31 — the day of the assassination — proclaimed "we see avenging his blood our duty," as the assassination happened on Iran's territory. In his recent statement, Khamenei said, "Governments that yield to the demands of today's dominant powers, regardless of the size or strength of the nations they represent, could defy these pressures if they draw on the strength of their people and accurately assess their adversaries' true, unembellished capabilities," Khamenei said. As per Iran International, he also criticised the longstanding habit of "exaggerating" enemy capabilities to instil fear as he pointed to what he described as US, British, and Israeli efforts since the 1979 Islamic revolution in Iran. Also read | Zelensky approved plans to sabotage Nord Stream pipelines: Report When will Iran attack Israel? Iran has been biding its time to retaliate against Israel. The nation has been leveraging psychological tactics, building suspense on when the retaliation might happen. Twice already, the US has given its estimate on when the strike may happen. Iran contends that it has the "legal right" to respond to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. "No one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime," Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani had said during a regular news conference, in obvious reference to Israel. However, even as he asserted Iran's right to retaliate, Nasser Kanani emphasised that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions in the region," which have been on the rise since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in early October and escalated further following the fatal attack on Haniyeh in Tehran. (With inputs from agencies)

Backing down from retaliating against Israel would invite ‘divine wrath’: Iran supreme leader Khamenei

Over 10 months into the war, Israel has accomplished everything that it could gain militarily in the Gaza Strip against Hamas and can't do anything more, a report in the New York Times has claimed, citing US officials.&nbsp;

Washington believes that Tel Aviv will never be able to completely wipe out Hamas and that more bombings only increase the risk of civilian casualties.&nbsp;

“Israel has been able to disrupt Hamas, kill a number of their leaders and largely reduce the threat to Israel that existed before October 7,” Gen. Joseph L. Votel, former head of US Central Command was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;

A former senior CIA official added that Hamas was largely depleted in the region but nowhere near being wiped out off the map.&nbsp;

However, the Israeli side has refuted the claims saying there were gains still to be made on the ground in Gaza.&nbsp;

“If Israel evacuates its forces now, within a year, Hamas will be strong again,” said&nbsp;Yaakov Amidror, a retired IDF major general, who added that the military needs another two to three months in central and southern Gaza.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-us-ready-to-defend-israel-in-fight-against-iran-proxies-748982" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Iran-Israel tensions: US ready to defend Israel in fight against Iran &amp; proxies</a>&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-us-ready-to-defend-israel-in-fight-against-iran-proxies-748982/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Netanyahu and Gallant argue&nbsp;</h2>

Notably, the report comes a couple of days after Israeli media reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was angry over&nbsp;Defence Minister Yoav Gallant calling his goal of achieving "total victory" against Hamas "gibberish".&nbsp;

Netanyahu accused Gallant of adopting "an anti-Israel narrative" that was hurting the momentum of the forces and the ongoing talks.

“When Gallant adopts the anti-Israel narrative, he harms the chances of reaching a hostage-release deal,” the Israeli PMO said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-us-greenlighted-israels-killing-of-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-746705" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Iran claims US greenlighted Israel's killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh</a>

Gallant made the rather rebellious remark in front of lawmakers during a private security briefing.&nbsp;

“I hear all the heroes with the war drums, ‘absolute victory,’ and all that gibberish. I saw that courage when it came down to the discussion,” said Gallant, according to reports.&nbsp;

Despite gaining control of the majority of the Gaza Strip, the Israeli forces haven't been able to free the hostages kidnapped on October 7 last year. The hostage-truce talks have been at an impasse for months, despite Washington attempting to fasten the process.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, an imminent threat of retaliatory strikes from Iran also looms over Israel.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Over 10 months into the war, Israel has accomplished everything that it could gain militarily in the Gaza Strip against Hamas and can't do anything more, a report in the New York Times has claimed, citing US officials.

Over 10 months into the war, Israel has accomplished everything that it could gain militarily in the Gaza Strip against Hamas and can't do anything more, a report in the New York Times has claimed, citing US officials. Washington believes that Tel Aviv will never be able to completely wipe out Hamas and that more bombings only increase the risk of civilian casualties. “Israel has been able to disrupt Hamas, kill a number of their leaders and largely reduce the threat to Israel that existed before October 7,” Gen. Joseph L. Votel, former head of US Central Command was quoted as saying by the publication. A former senior CIA official added that Hamas was largely depleted in the region but nowhere near being wiped out off the map. However, the Israeli side has refuted the claims saying there were gains still to be made on the ground in Gaza. “If Israel evacuates its forces now, within a year, Hamas will be strong again,” said Yaakov Amidror, a retired IDF major general, who added that the military needs another two to three months in central and southern Gaza. Watch | Iran-Israel tensions: US ready to defend Israel in fight against Iran & proxies Netanyahu and Gallant argue Notably, the report comes a couple of days after Israeli media reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was angry over Defence Minister Yoav Gallant calling his goal of achieving "total victory" against Hamas "gibberish". Netanyahu accused Gallant of adopting "an anti-Israel narrative" that was hurting the momentum of the forces and the ongoing talks. “When Gallant adopts the anti-Israel narrative, he harms the chances of reaching a hostage-release deal,” the Israeli PMO said. Also read | Iran claims US greenlighted Israel's killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh Gallant made the rather rebellious remark in front of lawmakers during a private security briefing. “I hear all the heroes with the war drums, ‘absolute victory,’ and all that gibberish. I saw that courage when it came down to the discussion,” said Gallant, according to reports. Despite gaining control of the majority of the Gaza Strip, the Israeli forces haven't been able to free the hostages kidnapped on October 7 last year. The hostage-truce talks have been at an impasse for months, despite Washington attempting to fasten the process. Meanwhile, an imminent threat of retaliatory strikes from Iran also looms over Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

'End of line': Israeli military can't do anything more against Hamas in Gaza - Report

Gravitas recall: on 13 August 1961, construction began on a wall that would divide berlin in two. Molly Gambhir tells you more!

Gravitas recall: Building the berlin wall

Israel has green-lit a new settlement on a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank, according to a Wednesday (August 14) announcement by Bezalel Smotrich, the far-right finance minister and head of civil affairs at the Israeli defence ministry.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Smotrich revealed that his office had "completed its work and published a plan for the new Nahal Heletz settlement in Gush Etzion," a bloc situated south of Jerusalem.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:133,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1883}">Settlements, permissions and more</h2>

The move comes amidst ongoing international criticism of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, all&nbsp;deemed illegal under international law regardless of Israeli planning permissions.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-backlash-costing-starbucks-heres-what-we-know-750141">Gaza war backlash costing Starbucks? Here's what we know</a>

Smotrich, who resides in a settlement, took to social media platform X to defend the decision, declaring, "No anti-Israeli and anti-Zionist decision will stop the development of settlements."&nbsp;

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חיבור גוש עציון לירושלים - משימה לאומית! 
 
יישוב חדש בגוש עציון; פורסם קו כחול של 602 דונם להקמה של היישוב נחל חלץ. 
 
היום סיים המנהל האזרחי את עבודתו המקצועית ופרסם קו כחול חדש ליישוב נחל חלץ בגוש עציון. 
 
פרסום הקו הכחול מאפשר להניע את הליכי הקמת היישוב נחל חלץ, אחד מהיישובים… <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:223,&quot;y&quot;:461,&quot;w&quot;:155,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:256,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2211}" href="https://t.co/qK4sLwx1ik">pic.twitter.com/qK4sLwx1ik</a>
— בצלאל סמוטריץ' (@bezalelsm) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:399,&quot;y&quot;:489,&quot;w&quot;:94,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:432,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2239}" href="https://twitter.com/bezalelsm/status/1823642987080957996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"We will continue to fight against the dangerous project of creating a Palestinian state by creating facts on the ground," he added.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:608,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2358}">Critics slam the settlement</h2>

The approval of the Nahal Heletz settlement has drawn sharp criticism from Israeli anti-settlement groups.&nbsp;

Peace Now condemned the plan as a "wholesale attack" on the region. Highlighting its historical and cultural significance, the group said that the area was "renowned for its ancient terraces and sophisticated irrigation systems, evidence of thousands of years of human activity".&nbsp;

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1/12 
 
The World Heritage Site of Palestine, known as the Land of Olives and Vines – Cultural Landscape of Southern JLM, Battir, southwest of JLM, is under direct threat from ongoing &amp; planned Israeli settlement activities within the zone of the site, situated in Area C of the WB. <a href="https://t.co/OpCoirODNq">pic.twitter.com/OpCoirODNq</a>
— Peace Now (@peacenowisrael) <a href="https://twitter.com/peacenowisrael/status/1823028864358199489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The settlement is set to encroach on the Palestinian village of Battir, reports AFP.

The approval of this settlement follows a controversial act by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who drew global condemnation by participating in prayers at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in East Jerusalem, a site where Jewish prayers are prohibited.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/new-zealand-candy-laced-with-fatal-levels-of-meth-distributed-by-charity-400-candies-still-out-there-750107">New Zealand: Candy laced with fatal levels of meth distributed by charity; 400 candies still 'out there'</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:869,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2619}">Nahal Heletz</h2>

The Nahal Heletz settlement, which had received preliminary approval along with four other settlements in June, lies between Gush Etzion and Bethlehem.&nbsp;

Peace Now warns that this settlement threatens the Palestinian cultural and natural heritage in a region considered of "highest cultural value to humanity."&nbsp;

"These actions are not only fragmenting Palestinian space and depriving large communities of their natural and cultural heritage, they also pose an imminent threat to an area considered to be of the highest cultural value to humanity," said the organisation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel has green-lit a new settlement on a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank, according to a Wednesday (August 14) announcement by Bezalel Smotrich, the far-right finance minister and head of civil affairs at the Israeli defence ministry.

Israel has green-lit a new settlement on a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank, according to a Wednesday (August 14) announcement by Bezalel Smotrich, the far-right finance minister and head of civil affairs at the Israeli defence ministry. Smotrich revealed that his office had "completed its work and published a plan for the new Nahal Heletz settlement in Gush Etzion," a bloc situated south of Jerusalem. Settlements, permissions and more The move comes amidst ongoing international criticism of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, all deemed illegal under international law regardless of Israeli planning permissions. Also read | Gaza war backlash costing Starbucks? Here's what we know Smotrich, who resides in a settlement, took to social media platform X to defend the decision, declaring, "No anti-Israeli and anti-Zionist decision will stop the development of settlements." חיבור גוש עציון לירושלים - משימה לאומית! יישוב חדש בגוש עציון; פורסם קו כחול של 602 דונם להקמה של היישוב נחל חלץ. היום סיים המנהל האזרחי את עבודתו המקצועית ופרסם קו כחול חדש ליישוב נחל חלץ בגוש עציון. פרסום הקו הכחול מאפשר להניע את הליכי הקמת היישוב נחל חלץ, אחד מהיישובים… pic.twitter.com/qK4sLwx1ik — בצלאל סמוטריץ' (@bezalelsm) August 14, 2024 × "We will continue to fight against the dangerous project of creating a Palestinian state by creating facts on the ground," he added. Critics slam the settlement The approval of the Nahal Heletz settlement has drawn sharp criticism from Israeli anti-settlement groups. Peace Now condemned the plan as a "wholesale attack" on the region. Highlighting its historical and cultural significance, the group said that the area was "renowned for its ancient terraces and sophisticated irrigation systems, evidence of thousands of years of human activity". 1/12 The World Heritage Site of Palestine, known as the Land of Olives and Vines – Cultural Landscape of Southern JLM, Battir, southwest of JLM, is under direct threat from ongoing & planned Israeli settlement activities within the zone of the site, situated in Area C of the WB. pic.twitter.com/OpCoirODNq — Peace Now (@peacenowisrael) August 12, 2024 × The settlement is set to encroach on the Palestinian village of Battir, reports AFP. The approval of this settlement follows a controversial act by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who drew global condemnation by participating in prayers at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in East Jerusalem, a site where Jewish prayers are prohibited. Also read | New Zealand: Candy laced with fatal levels of meth distributed by charity; 400 candies still 'out there' Nahal Heletz The Nahal Heletz settlement, which had received preliminary approval along with four other settlements in June, lies between Gush Etzion and Bethlehem. Peace Now warns that this settlement threatens the Palestinian cultural and natural heritage in a region considered of "highest cultural value to humanity." "These actions are not only fragmenting Palestinian space and depriving large communities of their natural and cultural heritage, they also pose an imminent threat to an area considered to be of the highest cultural value to humanity," said the organisation. (With inputs from agencies)

Historic UNESCO site threatened? Israel approves new settlement in West Bank near Bethlehem

The internet is rife with speculations that Starbucks' Indian-origin&nbsp;CEO Laxman&nbsp;Narasimhan was fired after he claimed that in order to maintain work-life balance, he never worked past 6 pm.&nbsp;

Narasimhan was sacked by the coffee giant on Tuesday (Aug 13) and immediately replaced by Brian Niccol, chief executive at Chipotle. Soon after the ouster,&nbsp;Narasimhan's interview with Fortune magazine&nbsp;last month, where he made the claim, went viral on social media.&nbsp;

"I am very disciplined about balance. If there's anything after 6 pm and I am in town, it's got to be a pretty high bar to keep me away from the family," the 57-year-old said at the time.&nbsp;

"Anybody who gets a minute of time after that better be sure that it's important...Because if not it will just wait for another day," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tv-news-anchor-sacked-in-turkey-for-using-starbucks-cup-on-broadcast-674094">Watch |&nbsp;TV news anchor sacked in Turkey for using Starbucks cup on broadcast</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>'If you say something like that...'</h2>

The&nbsp;netizens started sharing the clippings of the interview and poked fun at the departing CEO whose statement came across as arrogant to some.&nbsp;

"If you say something like this when the stock price is doing well, you sound like a genius. But if it's not doing well...you get fired," said one user, while another commented: "Laxman is quite a fitting name"

A third added: "Was it not working past six or was it just a bad CEO not understanding the product or the environment? It’s hard to tell. Maybe it’s all of it. Maybe it’s one of it who knows."

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Starbucks CEO Laxman Narasimhan recently said that he doesn't work past 6pm and that if anyone at Starbucks gets a minute of his time after 6 pm they "better be sure that it's important." 
 
He was just fired today. <a href="https://t.co/ATEhYTFddB">pic.twitter.com/ATEhYTFddB</a>
— Triple Net Investor (@TripleNetInvest) <a href="https://twitter.com/TripleNetInvest/status/1823379278446391760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The fact that the (former) Starbucks CEO, who's paid millions of dollars, refuses to work beyond 6pm is hilarious. It's a much lower standard than the majority of Starbucks employees who work extra time to open up and close down restaurants for the day. <a href="https://t.co/Ucwd6FOpOL">https://t.co/Ucwd6FOpOL</a>
— Joseph Carlson (@joecarlsonshow) <a href="https://twitter.com/joecarlsonshow/status/1823419096673014256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Starbucks has been under pressure from the investors as weakening consumer sentiment and difficult market conditions, especially in China, have heavily hit the revenue.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/laxman-narasimhan-no-longer-starbucks-ceo-brian-niccol-to-lead-coffee-chain-749859">Also read |&nbsp;Laxman Narasimhan no longer Starbucks CEO; Brian Niccol to lead coffee chain</a>

The American company is looking to turn around its business while contending with broad-based sales declines.&nbsp;

Notably, Narasimhan took over the reins as the CEO of Starbucks in March last year. .

(With inputs from agencies)

The internet is rife with speculations that Starbucks' Indian-origin CEO Laxman Narasimhan was fired after he claimed that in order to maintain work-life balance, he never worked past 6 pm.

The internet is rife with speculations that Starbucks' Indian-origin CEO Laxman Narasimhan was fired after he claimed that in order to maintain work-life balance, he never worked past 6 pm. Narasimhan was sacked by the coffee giant on Tuesday (Aug 13) and immediately replaced by Brian Niccol, chief executive at Chipotle. Soon after the ouster, Narasimhan's interview with Fortune magazine last month, where he made the claim, went viral on social media. "I am very disciplined about balance. If there's anything after 6 pm and I am in town, it's got to be a pretty high bar to keep me away from the family," the 57-year-old said at the time. "Anybody who gets a minute of time after that better be sure that it's important...Because if not it will just wait for another day," he added. Watch | TV news anchor sacked in Turkey for using Starbucks cup on broadcast × 'If you say something like that...' The netizens started sharing the clippings of the interview and poked fun at the departing CEO whose statement came across as arrogant to some. "If you say something like this when the stock price is doing well, you sound like a genius. But if it's not doing well...you get fired," said one user, while another commented: "Laxman is quite a fitting name" A third added: "Was it not working past six or was it just a bad CEO not understanding the product or the environment? It’s hard to tell. Maybe it’s all of it. Maybe it’s one of it who knows." Starbucks CEO Laxman Narasimhan recently said that he doesn't work past 6pm and that if anyone at Starbucks gets a minute of his time after 6 pm they "better be sure that it's important." He was just fired today. pic.twitter.com/ATEhYTFddB — Triple Net Investor (@TripleNetInvest) August 13, 2024 × The fact that the (former) Starbucks CEO, who's paid millions of dollars, refuses to work beyond 6pm is hilarious. It's a much lower standard than the majority of Starbucks employees who work extra time to open up and close down restaurants for the day. https://t.co/Ucwd6FOpOL — Joseph Carlson (@joecarlsonshow) August 13, 2024 × Starbucks has been under pressure from the investors as weakening consumer sentiment and difficult market conditions, especially in China, have heavily hit the revenue. Also read | Laxman Narasimhan no longer Starbucks CEO; Brian Niccol to lead coffee chain The American company is looking to turn around its business while contending with broad-based sales declines. Notably, Narasimhan took over the reins as the CEO of Starbucks in March last year. . (With inputs from agencies)

Not working past 6 pm cost Starbucks CEO Narasimhan his job? Internet speculates

The United States White House has warned that Iran could launch a "significant" attack on Israel this week. Briefing the press on Monday (August 12), National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said: "We have to be prepared for what could be a significant set of attacks."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:85,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1771}">Concerns about escalation</h2>

Kirby said that the US shares "the same concerns and expectations that our Israeli counterparts have with respect to potential timing here."

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:277,&quot;w&quot;:692,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2163}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-issues-notam-restrictions-as-global-community-awaits-possible-attack-on-israel-747396">Iranian attack on Israel looming? Tehran issues NOTAM, urges aircraft to change their routes</a>

"Could be this week," added Kirby.

The US National Security Council's comments came as the United States, in response to the escalating tensions, deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and a guided missile submarine to the region, in a show of support for Israel.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:283,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1969}">Why will Iran attack Israel?</h2>

Iran's probable attack would be retaliation for the recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, an act that Israel is suspected of committing but has not officially claimed.&nbsp;

Tehran has previously expressed its determination to retaliate against Israel for Haniyeh's&nbsp;assassination.

Last week, during a G7 conference call on August 5, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, had warned of a potential coordinated attack by Iran and Hezbollah against Israel.

Reports from Barak Ravid on Axios, citing three US and Israeli officials, at the time, had supported this prediction, and suggested that the attack could take place that day.

An Israeli official, speaking to CBS News, had indicated that Israel anticipates a "more aggressive" assault compared to Iran's attack on April 13.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:558,&quot;w&quot;:591,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2244}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-asserts-legal-right-to-retaliate-to-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyehs-assassination-747345">Iran asserts 'legal right' to retaliate to Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's assassination</a>

The same day, Iran had declared that it had the "legal right" to respond to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. The attack has been attributed to Israel amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict.

"No one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime," said Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani during a regular news conference, in obvious reference to Israel.

While asserting its right to retaliate, Nasser Kanani emphasised that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions in the region," which have been on the rise since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in early October and escalated further following the Wednesday attack in Tehran.

"We believe the consolidation of stability and security in the region will be achieved by punishing the aggressor and creating a deterrent against the adventurous behaviour and extraterritorial terrors of the Zionist regime," he stated.

<h3 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:774,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2460}">Prez Biden speaks to other leaders&nbsp;</h3>

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden spoke to leaders of France, Germany, Italy and the UK to discuss de-escalating tensions in the Middle East and a ceasefire in Gaza.

The leaders of all five countries expressed support for Israel against any Iranian threat, said a White House joint statement.

The leaders endorsed the call for renewal of talks for ceasefire to conclude a hostage-truce deal as soon as possible.

They “stressed there is no further time to lose,” the statement says.

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States White House has warned that Iran could launch a "significant" attack on Israel this week. Briefing the press on Monday (August 12), National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said: "We have to be prepared for what could be a significant set of attacks.

The United States White House has warned that Iran could launch a "significant" attack on Israel this week. Briefing the press on Monday (August 12), National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said: "We have to be prepared for what could be a significant set of attacks." Concerns about escalation Kirby said that the US shares "the same concerns and expectations that our Israeli counterparts have with respect to potential timing here." Also read | Iranian attack on Israel looming? Tehran issues NOTAM, urges aircraft to change their routes "Could be this week," added Kirby. The US National Security Council's comments came as the United States, in response to the escalating tensions, deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and a guided missile submarine to the region, in a show of support for Israel. Why will Iran attack Israel? Iran's probable attack would be retaliation for the recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, an act that Israel is suspected of committing but has not officially claimed. Tehran has previously expressed its determination to retaliate against Israel for Haniyeh's assassination. Last week, during a G7 conference call on August 5, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, had warned of a potential coordinated attack by Iran and Hezbollah against Israel. Reports from Barak Ravid on Axios, citing three US and Israeli officials, at the time, had supported this prediction, and suggested that the attack could take place that day. An Israeli official, speaking to CBS News, had indicated that Israel anticipates a "more aggressive" assault compared to Iran's attack on April 13. Also read | Iran asserts 'legal right' to retaliate to Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's assassination The same day, Iran had declared that it had the "legal right" to respond to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. The attack has been attributed to Israel amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict. "No one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime," said Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani during a regular news conference, in obvious reference to Israel. While asserting its right to retaliate, Nasser Kanani emphasised that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions in the region," which have been on the rise since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in early October and escalated further following the Wednesday attack in Tehran. "We believe the consolidation of stability and security in the region will be achieved by punishing the aggressor and creating a deterrent against the adventurous behaviour and extraterritorial terrors of the Zionist regime," he stated. Prez Biden speaks to other leaders Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden spoke to leaders of France, Germany, Italy and the UK to discuss de-escalating tensions in the Middle East and a ceasefire in Gaza. The leaders of all five countries expressed support for Israel against any Iranian threat, said a White House joint statement. The leaders endorsed the call for renewal of talks for ceasefire to conclude a hostage-truce deal as soon as possible. They “stressed there is no further time to lose,” the statement says. (With inputs from agencies)

White House warns ‘significant’ Iranian attack on Israel can happen this week

India's Supreme Court on Tuesday (Aug 13) shut down contempt proceedings against yoga guru, Baba Ramdev and his aide, Acharya Balkrishna after they tendered unconditional apology and an undertaking. Both assured the court that their company, Patanjali Ayurved Limited, would refrain from issuing misleading advertisements and claims about its products.&nbsp;

A bench of justices Hima Kohli and Sandeep Mehta warned Patanjali that if the company relapsed by breaking any terms of the undertaking, the contempt case would be reopened.&nbsp;

The relief for Ramdev comes after the submission of apology affidavits, alongside the publication of apologies in multiple newspapers across the country.&nbsp;The bench initially expressed dissatisfaction at the apologies published in the newspapers by Patanjali. It&nbsp;was only after the rap by the court that it published improved apologies which were&nbsp;accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In February, earlier this year, the court slapped an interim ban on ads of Patanjali for not adhering to the guidelines.&nbsp;

The court ruled that allopathy cannot be degraded/defamed in the eyes of the public like this. “You (Patanjali) cannot criticise any other method of treatment like allopathy,” it noted.

The judges also pulled up the Ministry of Ayush (Govt of India) for “sitting with its eyes closed".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-misleading-marketing-needs-fix-in-india-714388" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Why misleading marketing needs fix in India</a>

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<h2>SC's previous threat</h2>

Notably, the contempt case was filed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) against Patanjali's&nbsp;ads attacking allopathy and claiming that its 'Coronil' medicine could cure COVID-19.&nbsp;

After the case reached the apex court, the judges threatened to impose a&nbsp;penalty of $120,000 on Patanjali&nbsp;if it did not stop its practice of making&nbsp;false and misleading claims in advertisements.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/explained-the-ads-case-against-patanjali-710471" target="_blank">Also read| |&nbsp;Explained: The ads case against Patanjali</a>

In 2022, the then Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana had also instructed the&nbsp;yoga guru to rein in his beliefs.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"What happened to Baba Ramdev? He can popularise his system, but why should he criticise other systems. We all respect him, he popularized yoga but he shouldn't criticize other systems. What is the guarantee that his system will work? He cannot refuse the doctor system. He must exercise restraint in abusing other systems," observed the former CJI.&nbsp;

Baba Ramdev is a popular figure in India. He founded Patanjali alongside Balkrishna in 2006 and since then, the company has transformed into a multi-billion dollar enterprise but has come under heavy scrutiny for its illegal marketing practices.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Supreme Court on Tuesday (Aug 13) shut down contempt proceedings against yoga guru, Baba Ramdev and his aide, Acharya Balkrishna after they tendered unconditional apology and an undertaking.

India's Supreme Court on Tuesday (Aug 13) shut down contempt proceedings against yoga guru, Baba Ramdev and his aide, Acharya Balkrishna after they tendered unconditional apology and an undertaking. Both assured the court that their company, Patanjali Ayurved Limited, would refrain from issuing misleading advertisements and claims about its products. A bench of justices Hima Kohli and Sandeep Mehta warned Patanjali that if the company relapsed by breaking any terms of the undertaking, the contempt case would be reopened. The relief for Ramdev comes after the submission of apology affidavits, alongside the publication of apologies in multiple newspapers across the country. The bench initially expressed dissatisfaction at the apologies published in the newspapers by Patanjali. It was only after the rap by the court that it published improved apologies which were accepted. In February, earlier this year, the court slapped an interim ban on ads of Patanjali for not adhering to the guidelines. The court ruled that allopathy cannot be degraded/defamed in the eyes of the public like this. “You (Patanjali) cannot criticise any other method of treatment like allopathy,” it noted. The judges also pulled up the Ministry of Ayush (Govt of India) for “sitting with its eyes closed". Watch | Why misleading marketing needs fix in India SC's previous threat Notably, the contempt case was filed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) against Patanjali's ads attacking allopathy and claiming that its 'Coronil' medicine could cure COVID-19. After the case reached the apex court, the judges threatened to impose a penalty of $120,000 on Patanjali if it did not stop its practice of making false and misleading claims in advertisements. Also read| | Explained: The ads case against Patanjali In 2022, the then Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana had also instructed the yoga guru to rein in his beliefs. "What happened to Baba Ramdev? He can popularise his system, but why should he criticise other systems. We all respect him, he popularized yoga but he shouldn't criticize other systems. What is the guarantee that his system will work? He cannot refuse the doctor system. He must exercise restraint in abusing other systems," observed the former CJI. Baba Ramdev is a popular figure in India. He founded Patanjali alongside Balkrishna in 2006 and since then, the company has transformed into a multi-billion dollar enterprise but has come under heavy scrutiny for its illegal marketing practices. (With inputs from agencies)

India: SC closes contempt case against Yoga guru Baba Ramdev, Patanjali Ayurved. Know why

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched a probe to ascertain whether Iranian state actors were behind the recent hacking attempt on Donald Trump's presidential campaign.&nbsp;

“We can confirm the FBI is investigating the matter,” the agency said in a statement on Monday (Aug 12).&nbsp;

Additionally, the premier security agency is investigating if the Joe Biden-Kamala Harris campaign was also targeted by the Iranian hackers, according to a CBS report.&nbsp;

Notably, it was Trump's campaign last week that claimed it had been hacked and suggested Iranian actors were involved in&nbsp;stealing and distributing internal documents.

The hackers reportedly distributed documents and a dossier on Trump's vice-presidential pick, JD Vance. Apparently, a US media outlet received emails with the campaign material, starting July 22, from a source that refused to identify themselves.&nbsp;

The document was dated Feb. 23, almost five months before Trump selected Vance as his running mate.

"These documents were obtained illegally from foreign sources hostile to the United States, intended to interfere with the 2024 election and sow chaos throughout our Democratic process," Donald Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The Iranians know that President Trump will stop their reign of terror just like he did in his first four years in the White House. Any media or news outlet reprinting documents or internal communications is doing the bidding of America's enemies and doing exactly what they want," Cheung added.

Microsoft’s Threat Analysis Center (MTAC) stated that Trump's campaign was sent a phishing email which led to the hacking attempt. A phishing email is designed to look trustworthy but once a user clicks on the malicious link, the hacker is able to enter their network.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Trump said the hackers were "only able to gather publicly available information" but raised further concerns about the threat of another Iranian attack.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-2024-donald-trump-and-kamala-harris-say-theyve-agreed-to-sept-10-debate-748740" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;US elections 2024: Donald Trump and Kamala Harris say they've agreed to Sept 10 debate</a>

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<h2>What did Microsoft say?&nbsp;</h2>

The allegations by the Trump campaign surfaced a day after Microsoft in a report revealed that&nbsp;Iran was evolving its tactics for the elections which is likely to have global implications.

"A group run by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) intelligence unit sent a spear-phishing email to a high-ranking official of a presidential campaign” and “another group with assessed links to the IRGC compromised a user account with minimal access permissions at a county-level government,” the report said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/microsoft-researchers-report-iran-hackers-targeting-us-officials-before-election-748728" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Microsoft researchers report Iran hackers targeting US officials before election</a>

The report added that another Tehran-backed group had been launching "secret" news sites that used AI to lift content from legitimate news sites, and targeted US voters on opposite sides of the political spectrum.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched a probe to ascertain whether Iranian state actors were behind the recent hacking attempt on Donald Trump's presidential campaign.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched a probe to ascertain whether Iranian state actors were behind the recent hacking attempt on Donald Trump's presidential campaign. “We can confirm the FBI is investigating the matter,” the agency said in a statement on Monday (Aug 12). Additionally, the premier security agency is investigating if the Joe Biden-Kamala Harris campaign was also targeted by the Iranian hackers, according to a CBS report. Notably, it was Trump's campaign last week that claimed it had been hacked and suggested Iranian actors were involved in stealing and distributing internal documents. The hackers reportedly distributed documents and a dossier on Trump's vice-presidential pick, JD Vance. Apparently, a US media outlet received emails with the campaign material, starting July 22, from a source that refused to identify themselves. The document was dated Feb. 23, almost five months before Trump selected Vance as his running mate. "These documents were obtained illegally from foreign sources hostile to the United States, intended to interfere with the 2024 election and sow chaos throughout our Democratic process," Donald Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. "The Iranians know that President Trump will stop their reign of terror just like he did in his first four years in the White House. Any media or news outlet reprinting documents or internal communications is doing the bidding of America's enemies and doing exactly what they want," Cheung added. Microsoft’s Threat Analysis Center (MTAC) stated that Trump's campaign was sent a phishing email which led to the hacking attempt. A phishing email is designed to look trustworthy but once a user clicks on the malicious link, the hacker is able to enter their network. Meanwhile, Trump said the hackers were "only able to gather publicly available information" but raised further concerns about the threat of another Iranian attack. Watch | US elections 2024: Donald Trump and Kamala Harris say they've agreed to Sept 10 debate What did Microsoft say? The allegations by the Trump campaign surfaced a day after Microsoft in a report revealed that Iran was evolving its tactics for the elections which is likely to have global implications. "A group run by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) intelligence unit sent a spear-phishing email to a high-ranking official of a presidential campaign” and “another group with assessed links to the IRGC compromised a user account with minimal access permissions at a county-level government,” the report said. Also read | Microsoft researchers report Iran hackers targeting US officials before election The report added that another Tehran-backed group had been launching "secret" news sites that used AI to lift content from legitimate news sites, and targeted US voters on opposite sides of the political spectrum. (With inputs from agencies)

FBI probing if Iran hacked Trump's presidential campaign

The Delhi High Court on Monday (Aug 12) granted interim protection from arrest till August 21 to former IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, who has been accused of cheating and wrongly availing OBC and disability quota benefits.

Justice Subramonium Prasad issued notice to the Delhi Police as well as the UPSC on the anticipatory bail plea by Khedkar and asked them to file their responses.

"In the facts of the present case, the court is of the opinion that the petitioner be not arrested till the next date of hearing," Justice Prasad said.

The court listed the case for further hearing on August 21.

Khedkar allegedly misrepresented information in her application for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, 2022 to get reservation benefits.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/upsc-debars-puja-khedkar-from-appearing-for-any-exam-cancels-her-provisional-candidature-745988">Watch |&nbsp;UPSC debars Puja Khedkar from appearing for any exam, cancels her provisional candidature</a>

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On July 31, the UPSC cancelled Khedkar's candidature and debarred her from future exams.

On August 1, a sessions court here had denied anticipatory bail to her and said there are serious allegations against her, which "require a thorough investigation".

Khedkar had approached the sessions court, saying she faces "immediate threat of arrest".

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Delhi High Court on Monday (Aug 12) granted interim protection from arrest till August 21 to former IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, who has been accused of cheating and wrongly availing OBC and disability quota benefits.

The Delhi High Court on Monday (Aug 12) granted interim protection from arrest till August 21 to former IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, who has been accused of cheating and wrongly availing OBC and disability quota benefits. Justice Subramonium Prasad issued notice to the Delhi Police as well as the UPSC on the anticipatory bail plea by Khedkar and asked them to file their responses. "In the facts of the present case, the court is of the opinion that the petitioner be not arrested till the next date of hearing," Justice Prasad said. The court listed the case for further hearing on August 21. Khedkar allegedly misrepresented information in her application for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, 2022 to get reservation benefits. Watch | UPSC debars Puja Khedkar from appearing for any exam, cancels her provisional candidature × On July 31, the UPSC cancelled Khedkar's candidature and debarred her from future exams. On August 1, a sessions court here had denied anticipatory bail to her and said there are serious allegations against her, which "require a thorough investigation". Khedkar had approached the sessions court, saying she faces "immediate threat of arrest". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Delhi High Court grants protection from arrest to disgraced ex-IAS trainee Puja Khedkar

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar has said that he wants a Gaza truce deal and this comes just days after the US, Qatar and Egypt urged Israel and Hamas to return to the negotiating table.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas wants truce plan based on Biden's ceasefire proposal | WION Speed News

Amid the possibility of a war between Israel and Iran, the United States has ordered the deployment of a guided missile submarine to the Middle East. Defense Secretary Llyod Austin gave the green light for the deployment as the White House braces for the worst-case scenario.

According to the Pentagon, Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart and also told the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group to sail more quickly to the area.&nbsp;

"Secretary Austin reiterated the United States’ commitment to take every possible step to defend Israel and noted the strengthening of US&nbsp;military force posture and capabilities throughout the Middle East in light of escalating regional tensions," read the Pentagon statement.&nbsp;

The fresh deployment of an important military asset by the White House comes days after&nbsp;additional fighter jets and navy warships were moved to the turbulent region.

US President Joe Biden held a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier this month and said the US would “support Israel’s defence against threats,” which would include “new defensive US military deployments".

"The President reaffirmed his commitment to Israel’s security against all threats from Iran, including its proxy terrorist groups Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis," read the readout of the call.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-us-ready-to-defend-israel-in-fight-against-iran-proxies-748982">Watch |&nbsp;Iran-Israel tensions: US ready to defend Israel in fight against Iran &amp; proxies</a>&nbsp;

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<h2>Israel anticipates Iranian attack</h2>

Israel has been anticipating a retaliatory attack that may escalate into war after back-to-back assassinations of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.&nbsp;

Washington is especially wary after Iranian Supreme Leader&nbsp;Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said avenging&nbsp;Haniyeh's blood was their 'duty' and vowed retaliation against Israel.&nbsp;

“The criminal and terrorist Zionist regime martyred our dear guest in our house and made us bereaved,"&nbsp;Khamenei said.&nbsp;

“We consider it our duty to avenge his blood in this bitter and difficult incident that happened in the territory of the Islamic Republic,” he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-us-greenlighted-israels-killing-of-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-746705" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Iran claims US greenlighted Israel's killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh</a>

White House believes a response from Tehran might be similar to the barrage of ballistic missiles and drones it launched against Israel on April 13.

However, there is uncertainty that the attack could be larger and more complicated, including the possibility of a coordinated attack with Iranian proxies from multiple directions.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the possibility of a war between Israel and Iran, the United States has ordered the deployment of a guided missile submarine to the Middle East. Defense Secretary Llyod Austin gave the green light for the deployment as the White House braces for the worst-case scenario.

Amid the possibility of a war between Israel and Iran, the United States has ordered the deployment of a guided missile submarine to the Middle East. Defense Secretary Llyod Austin gave the green light for the deployment as the White House braces for the worst-case scenario. According to the Pentagon, Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart and also told the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group to sail more quickly to the area. "Secretary Austin reiterated the United States’ commitment to take every possible step to defend Israel and noted the strengthening of US military force posture and capabilities throughout the Middle East in light of escalating regional tensions," read the Pentagon statement. The fresh deployment of an important military asset by the White House comes days after additional fighter jets and navy warships were moved to the turbulent region. US President Joe Biden held a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier this month and said the US would “support Israel’s defence against threats,” which would include “new defensive US military deployments". "The President reaffirmed his commitment to Israel’s security against all threats from Iran, including its proxy terrorist groups Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis," read the readout of the call. Watch | Iran-Israel tensions: US ready to defend Israel in fight against Iran & proxies × Israel anticipates Iranian attack Israel has been anticipating a retaliatory attack that may escalate into war after back-to-back assassinations of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. Washington is especially wary after Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said avenging Haniyeh's blood was their 'duty' and vowed retaliation against Israel. “The criminal and terrorist Zionist regime martyred our dear guest in our house and made us bereaved," Khamenei said. “We consider it our duty to avenge his blood in this bitter and difficult incident that happened in the territory of the Islamic Republic,” he added. Also read | Iran claims US greenlighted Israel's killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh White House believes a response from Tehran might be similar to the barrage of ballistic missiles and drones it launched against Israel on April 13. However, there is uncertainty that the attack could be larger and more complicated, including the possibility of a coordinated attack with Iranian proxies from multiple directions. (With inputs from agencies)

After navy warships, US orders submarine deployment in Middle East amid Israel-Iran war threat

Donald Trump's presidential campaign on Saturday (Aug 10) claimed that it had been hacked. It further suggested that Iranian actors were involved in stealing and distributing sensitive internal documents.&nbsp;

The hackers reportedly distributed documents and a dossier on Trump's vice-presidential pick, JD Vance.&nbsp;

"These documents were obtained illegally from foreign sources hostile to the United States, intended to interfere with the 2024 election and sow chaos throughout our Democratic process," Donald Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement.

News outlet Politico&nbsp;said it had received emails with the campaign material from a source who refused to identify themselves. The outlet said it received the first set of documents on July 22 via email.&nbsp;

The document was dated Feb. 23, almost five months before Trump selected Vance as his running mate.&nbsp;

"The Iranians know that President Trump will stop their reign of terror just like he did in his first four years in the White House. Any media or news outlet reprinting documents or internal communications is doing the bidding of America's enemies and doing exactly what they want," Cheung added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-2024-donald-trump-and-kamala-harris-say-theyve-agreed-to-sept-10-debate-748740">Watch |&nbsp;US elections 2024: Donald Trump and Kamala Harris say they've agreed to Sept 10 debate</a>

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<h2>Microsoft points to Iranian threat&nbsp;</h2>

The news of the leak comes a day after Microsoft issued a report documenting foreign agents and their attempts to interfere in the US elections in 2024. The findings revealed that Iran is evolving its tactics for the elections which is likely to have global implications.

"A group run by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) intelligence unit sent a spear-phishing email to a high-ranking official of a presidential campaign” and “another group with assessed links to the IRGC compromised a user account with minimal access permissions at a county-level government,” the report said.

The report added that another Tehran-backed group had been launching "secret" news sites that used AI to lift content from legitimate news sites, and targeted US voters on opposite sides of the political spectrum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/microsoft-researchers-report-iran-hackers-targeting-us-officials-before-election-748728">Also read |&nbsp;Microsoft researchers report Iran hackers targeting US officials before election</a>

Quizzed about the allegations, Iran's mission to the United Nations in New York said its cyber capabilities were "defensive and proportionate to the threats it faces" and that it had no plans to launch a cyber attack.&nbsp;

"The US&nbsp;presidential election is an internal matter in which&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;does not interfere,"&nbsp;the mission was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump's presidential campaign on Saturday (Aug 10) claimed that it had been hacked. It further suggested that Iranian actors were involved in stealing and distributing sensitive internal documents.

Donald Trump's presidential campaign on Saturday (Aug 10) claimed that it had been hacked. It further suggested that Iranian actors were involved in stealing and distributing sensitive internal documents. The hackers reportedly distributed documents and a dossier on Trump's vice-presidential pick, JD Vance. "These documents were obtained illegally from foreign sources hostile to the United States, intended to interfere with the 2024 election and sow chaos throughout our Democratic process," Donald Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. News outlet Politico said it had received emails with the campaign material from a source who refused to identify themselves. The outlet said it received the first set of documents on July 22 via email. The document was dated Feb. 23, almost five months before Trump selected Vance as his running mate. "The Iranians know that President Trump will stop their reign of terror just like he did in his first four years in the White House. Any media or news outlet reprinting documents or internal communications is doing the bidding of America's enemies and doing exactly what they want," Cheung added. Watch | US elections 2024: Donald Trump and Kamala Harris say they've agreed to Sept 10 debate × Microsoft points to Iranian threat The news of the leak comes a day after Microsoft issued a report documenting foreign agents and their attempts to interfere in the US elections in 2024. The findings revealed that Iran is evolving its tactics for the elections which is likely to have global implications. "A group run by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) intelligence unit sent a spear-phishing email to a high-ranking official of a presidential campaign” and “another group with assessed links to the IRGC compromised a user account with minimal access permissions at a county-level government,” the report said. The report added that another Tehran-backed group had been launching "secret" news sites that used AI to lift content from legitimate news sites, and targeted US voters on opposite sides of the political spectrum. Also read | Microsoft researchers report Iran hackers targeting US officials before election Quizzed about the allegations, Iran's mission to the United Nations in New York said its cyber capabilities were "defensive and proportionate to the threats it faces" and that it had no plans to launch a cyber attack. "The US presidential election is an internal matter in which Iran does not interfere," the mission was quoted as saying by Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump's presidential campaign hacked, Iranian actors blamed by his team

Former foreign minister K Natwar Singh passed away on Saturday (Aug 10)&nbsp;night after a prolonged illness, family sources said. He was 93.

He took his last breath at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram near Delhi, where he had been admitted for the past couple of weeks. Singh was born in 1931 in the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan.

He was a career diplomat, who brought a wealth of experience in diplomacy to his political career. He was also a prolific author on subjects ranging from the life of a maharaja to nuances of foreign affairs.

During his distinguished career, he wore many hats, and for his service to the nation, the former external affairs minister was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1984.

“His son is there at the hospital, and many more family members are coming to Delhi from his native state for the last rites planned in Delhi. He was not keeping well for some time,” a family source told PTI late night on Saturday.

He died late Saturday (Aug 10) night, the source said.

A former Congress MP, Singh was India’s External Affairs Minister for the period 2004-05 during the UPA-I government led by the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

He also served as ambassador to Pakistan and was attached to the office of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi from 1966 to 1971.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-west-bengal-cm-buddhadeb-bhattacharjee-dies-in-kolkata-at-80-748242">Also read |&nbsp;India: Former West Bengal CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee dies in Kolkata at 80</a>

Congress leader&nbsp;Randeep Surjewala paid tribute to the former external affairs minister in a post on X.

”The news of the demise of former Foreign Minister Natwar Singh ji is sad. May God give strength to his family to bear this loss and grant peace to the departed soul,” he wrote on the social media platform in Hindi and also posted a photograph of Singh.

Singh also authored several books including, ’The Legacy of Nehru: A Memorial Tribute’ and ’My China Diary 1956-88’.

His autobiography is titled ’One Life is Not Enough ’.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Former foreign minister K Natwar Singh passed away on Saturday (Aug 10) night after a prolonged illness, family sources said. He was 93. He took his last breath at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram near Delhi, where he had been admitted for the past couple of weeks.

Former foreign minister K Natwar Singh passed away on Saturday (Aug 10) night after a prolonged illness, family sources said. He was 93. He took his last breath at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram near Delhi, where he had been admitted for the past couple of weeks. Singh was born in 1931 in the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan. He was a career diplomat, who brought a wealth of experience in diplomacy to his political career. He was also a prolific author on subjects ranging from the life of a maharaja to nuances of foreign affairs. During his distinguished career, he wore many hats, and for his service to the nation, the former external affairs minister was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1984. “His son is there at the hospital, and many more family members are coming to Delhi from his native state for the last rites planned in Delhi. He was not keeping well for some time,” a family source told PTI late night on Saturday. He died late Saturday (Aug 10) night, the source said. A former Congress MP, Singh was India’s External Affairs Minister for the period 2004-05 during the UPA-I government led by the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He also served as ambassador to Pakistan and was attached to the office of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi from 1966 to 1971. Also read | India: Former West Bengal CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee dies in Kolkata at 80 Congress leader Randeep Surjewala paid tribute to the former external affairs minister in a post on X. ”The news of the demise of former Foreign Minister Natwar Singh ji is sad. May God give strength to his family to bear this loss and grant peace to the departed soul,” he wrote on the social media platform in Hindi and also posted a photograph of Singh. Singh also authored several books including, ’The Legacy of Nehru: A Memorial Tribute’ and ’My China Diary 1956-88’. His autobiography is titled ’One Life is Not Enough ’. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India's former foreign minister Natwar Singh dies at 93

Madhabi Puri Buch, the chairperson of the Indian market regulator&nbsp;Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has come under heavy scrutiny after US-based short seller Hindenburg Research published a damning report, linking her to Adani Group's alleged financial misconduct.&nbsp;

The report stated that Madhabi and her husband,&nbsp;Dhaval Buch, held clandestine stakes in obscure offshore funds that were part of a complex financial structure used by the Adani Group. Their money was parked in a fund, linked to associates of Vinod Adani, brother of Gautam Adani, who is chairman of the Adani Group.

"The current SEBI Chairperson and her husband, Dhaval Buch, had hidden stakes in the exact same obscure offshore Bermuda and Mauritius funds, found in the same complex nested structure, used by Vinod Adani," Hindenburg said.&nbsp;

It added that weeks before Madhabi's appointment as the SEBI boss, Dhaval&nbsp;requested to transfer their investments into his sole control to avoid any scrutiny that may come with the high-profile regulatory job.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is&nbsp;Madhabi Puri Buch?</h2>

Buch was born in Mumbai in 1966 and spent her formative years in the city. She graduated from St Stephen's College of Delhi University before earning her MBA from the renowned Indian Institute of Management-Ahmedabad (IIM-A).&nbsp;

Afterwards, she joined the ICICI Group where she had a 17-year-long career - serving as the executive director for 12 years before donning the hat of MD and CEO for ICICI securities for two years between February 2009 and May 2011.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hindenburg-report-alleges-market-regulator-chief-her-spouse-held-stake-in-adani-groups-offshore-funds-749068">Also read |&nbsp;Hindenburg report alleges market regulator chief, her spouse held stake in Adani Group's offshore funds</a>&nbsp;

Having left ICICI, Madhabi joined Greater Pacific Capital LLP - a private equity firm,&nbsp;as head of the country in Singapore in 2011. She served as founder-director of Agora Advisory Pvt Ltd and also worked with Shanghai’s New Development Bank for the next three years.&nbsp;

After returning to India, she held non-executive positions on the boards of major companies, including Idea Cellular and NIIT Limited. She was appointed as a Whole Time Member (WTM) of SEBI in 2017, where she managed mutual fund portfolios.&nbsp;

In March 2022, she became the first woman to lead SEBI. Her initial contract is due to expire in 2025 and according to rules, can be extended for two years.&nbsp;

Notably, Madhabi got engaged to Dhaval at the age of 18 when the latter was a director at FMCG multinational, Unilever. They got married when she turned 21.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/adani-group-struggles-to-shake-off-hindenburgs-impact-601548">Watch |&nbsp;Adani group struggles to shake off Hindenburg's impact</a>

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<h2>What next?</h2>

According to reliable sources, there might be a big fallout due to the report within the upper hierarchy of the Indian market regulator. Reports indicate that Adani Group has already begun lobbying for the next SEBI chairperson and the name of Dinesh Khara - the recently retired former State Bank of India chief is doing the rounds.&nbsp;

As for the confidence in the Indian markets and economy, especially with an eye on&nbsp;the foreign investors -- the opposition has started pressuring the Indian government to act and remove the SEBI chief.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Madhabi Puri Buch, the chairperson of the Indian market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has come under heavy scrutiny after US-based short seller Hindenburg Research published a damning report, linking her to Adani Group's alleged financial misconduct.

Madhabi Puri Buch, the chairperson of the Indian market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has come under heavy scrutiny after US-based short seller Hindenburg Research published a damning report, linking her to Adani Group's alleged financial misconduct. The report stated that Madhabi and her husband, Dhaval Buch, held clandestine stakes in obscure offshore funds that were part of a complex financial structure used by the Adani Group. Their money was parked in a fund, linked to associates of Vinod Adani, brother of Gautam Adani, who is chairman of the Adani Group. "The current SEBI Chairperson and her husband, Dhaval Buch, had hidden stakes in the exact same obscure offshore Bermuda and Mauritius funds, found in the same complex nested structure, used by Vinod Adani," Hindenburg said. It added that weeks before Madhabi's appointment as the SEBI boss, Dhaval requested to transfer their investments into his sole control to avoid any scrutiny that may come with the high-profile regulatory job. Who is Madhabi Puri Buch? Buch was born in Mumbai in 1966 and spent her formative years in the city. She graduated from St Stephen's College of Delhi University before earning her MBA from the renowned Indian Institute of Management-Ahmedabad (IIM-A). Afterwards, she joined the ICICI Group where she had a 17-year-long career - serving as the executive director for 12 years before donning the hat of MD and CEO for ICICI securities for two years between February 2009 and May 2011. Also read | Hindenburg report alleges market regulator chief, her spouse held stake in Adani Group's offshore funds Having left ICICI, Madhabi joined Greater Pacific Capital LLP - a private equity firm, as head of the country in Singapore in 2011. She served as founder-director of Agora Advisory Pvt Ltd and also worked with Shanghai’s New Development Bank for the next three years. After returning to India, she held non-executive positions on the boards of major companies, including Idea Cellular and NIIT Limited. She was appointed as a Whole Time Member (WTM) of SEBI in 2017, where she managed mutual fund portfolios. In March 2022, she became the first woman to lead SEBI. Her initial contract is due to expire in 2025 and according to rules, can be extended for two years. Notably, Madhabi got engaged to Dhaval at the age of 18 when the latter was a director at FMCG multinational, Unilever. They got married when she turned 21. Watch | Adani group struggles to shake off Hindenburg's impact × What next? According to reliable sources, there might be a big fallout due to the report within the upper hierarchy of the Indian market regulator. Reports indicate that Adani Group has already begun lobbying for the next SEBI chairperson and the name of Dinesh Khara - the recently retired former State Bank of India chief is doing the rounds. As for the confidence in the Indian markets and economy, especially with an eye on the foreign investors -- the opposition has started pressuring the Indian government to act and remove the SEBI chief. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Madhabi Buch? The SEBI chief named in Hindenburg's latest Adani report

Former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee died on Thursday (Aug 8) morning at his south Kolkata residence, CPI(M) state secretary Mohd Salim said.

He was suffering from old age-related ailments. Bhattacharjee was 80 and is survived by his wife Mira and daughter Suchetana. The CPI(M) leader was the chief minister of the state from 2000 to 2011.

The veteran CPI(M) leader took over as the chief minister of West Bengal in 2000 from party senior Jyoti Basu.

Bhattacharya lost the 2011 assembly election to Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress and the CPI(M)-led Left Front's 34-year-long rule in the state came to an end that year.

His tenure was marked by agitations over the acquisition of land for industries led by present Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Bhattacharya stepped down from the CPI(M) politburo and central committee in 2015 and gave up membership of the party's state secretariat in 2018.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-protests-west-bengal-cm-offers-shelter-to-helpless-people-742821">Also read |&nbsp;Bangladesh protests: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee offers shelter to ‘helpless people’</a>

Over the last few years, he mostly stayed away from public programmes and remained confined to his two-room government apartment at Palm Avenue in south Kolkata.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

Former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee died on Thursday (Aug 8) morning at his south Kolkata residence, CPI(M) state secretary Mohd Salim said.

Former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee died on Thursday (Aug 8) morning at his south Kolkata residence, CPI(M) state secretary Mohd Salim said. He was suffering from old age-related ailments. Bhattacharjee was 80 and is survived by his wife Mira and daughter Suchetana. The CPI(M) leader was the chief minister of the state from 2000 to 2011. The veteran CPI(M) leader took over as the chief minister of West Bengal in 2000 from party senior Jyoti Basu. Bhattacharya lost the 2011 assembly election to Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress and the CPI(M)-led Left Front's 34-year-long rule in the state came to an end that year. His tenure was marked by agitations over the acquisition of land for industries led by present Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Bhattacharya stepped down from the CPI(M) politburo and central committee in 2015 and gave up membership of the party's state secretariat in 2018. Also read | Bangladesh protests: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee offers shelter to ‘helpless people’ Over the last few years, he mostly stayed away from public programmes and remained confined to his two-room government apartment at Palm Avenue in south Kolkata. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

India: Former West Bengal CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee dies in Kolkata at 80

Iran has announced its plans to attack Israel, revealed Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (August 5).

As tensions escalate between the two nations, this information, as per Jerusalem Post, was relayed to the Israeli minister by Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó.&nbsp;

Szijjártó, in turn, received the details from acting Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:150,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1836}">'World should exact a price from Iran'</h2>

Revealing Iran's alleged plans to attack, Katz urged the international community to hold Iran accountable for any aggressive actions.

He warned that ignoring Iran's expanding aggression could destabilise the region further.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:277,&quot;w&quot;:692,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1963}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-issues-notam-restrictions-as-global-community-awaits-possible-attack-on-israel-747396">Iranian attack on Israel looming? Tehran issues NOTAM, urges aircraft to change their routes</a>

"Iran has informed us that it intends to attack Israel," said Katz, adding that "The world should exact a price from Iran for any aggressive action it carries out."

"Silence toward the expanding evil acts of the Zionist regime will be detrimental to the regional stability, adding that indifference to its recent moves is tantamount to giving the regime an incentive."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:429,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2115}">Why is Iran attacking Israel?</h2>

Iran's probable attack would be retaliation for the recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, an act that Israel is suspected of but has not officially claimed.&nbsp;

Tehran has previously expressed its determination to retaliate against Israel for the assassination.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:560,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2246}">US seeks to de-escalate the situation</h2>

According to the United States, the attack may happen within the next 48 hours. US President&nbsp;Joe Biden and his national security team are set to meet to discuss the escalating situation in West Asia.

US CENTCOM Commander Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla visited Israel to confer with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and IDF Chief of Staff Herzl Halevi.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israels-finance-minister-orders-seizure-of-26-million-of-palestinian-tax-funds-747406">Gaza war: Israel's finance minister orders seizure of $26 million in Palestinian tax funds</a>

Gallant described the visit as "a direct translation of US support for Israel into action. The relationship between Israel and the United States is unshakeable."

"We discussed the coordination of defense activities and ways to expand the international coalition facing aggressive actions by Iran and its proxies," he said.

President Biden has also spoken with Jordan's King Abdullah about de-escalating tensions, including negotiations for a ceasefire and hostages' release.&nbsp;

"The President thanked His Majesty for his friendship, and affirmed unwavering US support for Jordan as a partner and ally in promoting regional peace and security," said the White House, describing the call.

Jordan, the US, and other allies had previously intervened in April to defend Israel from an Iranian attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran has announced its plans to attack Israel, revealed Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (August 5). As tensions escalate between the two nations, this information, as per Jerusalem Post, was relayed to the Israeli minister by Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó.

Iran has announced its plans to attack Israel, revealed Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (August 5). As tensions escalate between the two nations, this information, as per Jerusalem Post, was relayed to the Israeli minister by Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó. Szijjártó, in turn, received the details from acting Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri. 'World should exact a price from Iran' Revealing Iran's alleged plans to attack, Katz urged the international community to hold Iran accountable for any aggressive actions. He warned that ignoring Iran's expanding aggression could destabilise the region further. Also read | Iranian attack on Israel looming? Tehran issues NOTAM, urges aircraft to change their routes "Iran has informed us that it intends to attack Israel," said Katz, adding that "The world should exact a price from Iran for any aggressive action it carries out." "Silence toward the expanding evil acts of the Zionist regime will be detrimental to the regional stability, adding that indifference to its recent moves is tantamount to giving the regime an incentive." Why is Iran attacking Israel? Iran's probable attack would be retaliation for the recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, an act that Israel is suspected of but has not officially claimed. Tehran has previously expressed its determination to retaliate against Israel for the assassination. US seeks to de-escalate the situation According to the United States, the attack may happen within the next 48 hours. US President Joe Biden and his national security team are set to meet to discuss the escalating situation in West Asia. US CENTCOM Commander Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla visited Israel to confer with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and IDF Chief of Staff Herzl Halevi. Also read | Gaza war: Israel's finance minister orders seizure of $26 million in Palestinian tax funds Gallant described the visit as "a direct translation of US support for Israel into action. The relationship between Israel and the United States is unshakeable." "We discussed the coordination of defense activities and ways to expand the international coalition facing aggressive actions by Iran and its proxies," he said. President Biden has also spoken with Jordan's King Abdullah about de-escalating tensions, including negotiations for a ceasefire and hostages' release. "The President thanked His Majesty for his friendship, and affirmed unwavering US support for Jordan as a partner and ally in promoting regional peace and security," said the White House, describing the call. Jordan, the US, and other allies had previously intervened in April to defend Israel from an Iranian attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli FM Katz says Iran plans to attack Israel, conveyed warning via Hungary; seeks international action

The United Nations said Monday that nine employees of its agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) "may have been involved" in the October 7 attack on southern Israel by Hamas, which sparked war in Gaza, and have been fired.

"We have sufficient information in order to take the actions that we're taking -- which is to say, the termination of these nine individuals," UN spokesperson Farhan Haq said.

Haq said the organisation will need to evaluate any further steps to "fully corroborate."

Haq was speaking after the UN's oversight body completed its investigation into the allegations earlier this year by Israel that a total of 19 UNRWA employees may have been involved in the attack.&nbsp;

That prompted many governments, including top donor, the United States, to abruptly suspend funding to the agency, threatening its efforts to deliver aid in Gaza. Several countries have since resumed payments.

Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas in retaliation for the October 7 attack, which resulted in the deaths of 1,197 Israeli people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

Militants also seized 251 hostages, 111 of whom are still held captive in Gaza, including 39 the military says are dead.

Israel's campaign against Hamas has killed at least 39,550 people in Gaza, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, which does not give breakdown&nbsp;of civilian and militant deaths.

UNRWA, which has provided essential aid for Palestinian refugees since 1949, has long been criticised by Israel.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, UNRWA's chief Philippe Lazzarini called for Israel to "stop its campaign" against the organisation, citing "outrageous" attacks on its employees, facilities, and operations.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

The United Nations said Monday that nine employees of its agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) "may have been involved" in the October 7 attack on southern Israel by Hamas, which sparked war in Gaza, and have been fired.

The United Nations said Monday that nine employees of its agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) "may have been involved" in the October 7 attack on southern Israel by Hamas, which sparked war in Gaza, and have been fired. "We have sufficient information in order to take the actions that we're taking -- which is to say, the termination of these nine individuals," UN spokesperson Farhan Haq said. Haq said the organisation will need to evaluate any further steps to "fully corroborate." Haq was speaking after the UN's oversight body completed its investigation into the allegations earlier this year by Israel that a total of 19 UNRWA employees may have been involved in the attack. That prompted many governments, including top donor, the United States, to abruptly suspend funding to the agency, threatening its efforts to deliver aid in Gaza. Several countries have since resumed payments. Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas in retaliation for the October 7 attack, which resulted in the deaths of 1,197 Israeli people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures. Militants also seized 251 hostages, 111 of whom are still held captive in Gaza, including 39 the military says are dead. Israel's campaign against Hamas has killed at least 39,550 people in Gaza, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, which does not give breakdown of civilian and militant deaths. UNRWA, which has provided essential aid for Palestinian refugees since 1949, has long been criticised by Israel. Earlier this year, UNRWA's chief Philippe Lazzarini called for Israel to "stop its campaign" against the organisation, citing "outrageous" attacks on its employees, facilities, and operations. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UNRWA fires nine workers for involvement in October 7 Hamas attack

Iran on Monday (August 5) issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) diverting aircraft to alter their course as reports suggest that Tehran may strike Tel Aviv soon.

The notification, as per Jerusalem Post, has been put in place for the central, western, and northwestern regions of the country.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:118,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1955}">What is NOTAM?</h2>

A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) is a message that informs pilots and other aviation workers about important information related to flight safety. It gives them&nbsp;updates on anything that might affect flights, like temporary changes, hazards, runway closures and&nbsp;airspace restrictions due to events like military exercises.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:229,&quot;w&quot;:591,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2066}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-asserts-legal-right-to-retaliate-to-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyehs-assassination-747345">Iran asserts 'legal right' to retaliate to Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's assassination</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:265,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2102}">Iran to attack Israel?</h2>

This precautionary measure comes amid escalating tensions and warnings of a possible attack on Israel.

Citing sources, the publication reports that the attack could occur as early as Monday.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during a G7 conference call on Monday, also warned of a potential coordinated attack by Iran and Hezbollah against Israel.

Reports from Barak Ravid on Axios, citing three US and Israeli officials, support this prediction, suggesting the attack could take place on Monday.&nbsp;

An Israeli official, speaking to CBS News, indicated that Israel anticipates a "more aggressive" assault compared to Iran's attack on April 13.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:524,&quot;w&quot;:493,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2361}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-attack-israel-on-monday-blinken-warns-g7-nations-report-747149">Iran could attack Israel on Monday, Blinken warns G7 nations: Report</a>

The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides preparing for possible escalations. Also on Monday, Iran declared that it had the "legal right" to respond to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. The attack has been attributed to Israel amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict.

"No one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime," said Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani during a regular news conference, in obvious reference to Israel.

While asserting its right to retaliate, Nasser Kanani emphasised that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions in the region," which have been on the rise since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in early October and escalated further following the Wednesday attack in Tehran.

"We believe the consolidation of stability and security in the region will be achieved by punishing the aggressor and creating a deterrent against the adventurous behaviour and extraterritorial terrors of the Zionist regime," he stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran on Monday (August 5) issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) diverting aircraft to alter their course as reports suggest that Tehran may strike Tel Aviv soon.

Iran on Monday (August 5) issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) diverting aircraft to alter their course as reports suggest that Tehran may strike Tel Aviv soon. The notification, as per Jerusalem Post, has been put in place for the central, western, and northwestern regions of the country. What is NOTAM? A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) is a message that informs pilots and other aviation workers about important information related to flight safety. It gives them updates on anything that might affect flights, like temporary changes, hazards, runway closures and airspace restrictions due to events like military exercises. Also read | Iran asserts 'legal right' to retaliate to Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's assassination Iran to attack Israel? This precautionary measure comes amid escalating tensions and warnings of a possible attack on Israel. Citing sources, the publication reports that the attack could occur as early as Monday. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during a G7 conference call on Monday, also warned of a potential coordinated attack by Iran and Hezbollah against Israel. Reports from Barak Ravid on Axios, citing three US and Israeli officials, support this prediction, suggesting the attack could take place on Monday. An Israeli official, speaking to CBS News, indicated that Israel anticipates a "more aggressive" assault compared to Iran's attack on April 13. Also read | Iran could attack Israel on Monday, Blinken warns G7 nations: Report The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides preparing for possible escalations. Also on Monday, Iran declared that it had the "legal right" to respond to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. The attack has been attributed to Israel amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict. "No one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime," said Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani during a regular news conference, in obvious reference to Israel. While asserting its right to retaliate, Nasser Kanani emphasised that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions in the region," which have been on the rise since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in early October and escalated further following the Wednesday attack in Tehran. "We believe the consolidation of stability and security in the region will be achieved by punishing the aggressor and creating a deterrent against the adventurous behaviour and extraterritorial terrors of the Zionist regime," he stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian attack on Israel looming? Tehran issues NOTAM, urges aircraft to change their routes

Anne Frank's statue in Netherlands' Amsterdam has been defaced with pro-Palestinian graffiti. Anne Frank, a German born Jewish girl killed by Nazis during the World War II, is known for her account of hiding from the Nazi occupiers.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:67,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1756}">Statue defaced</h2>

As per images being widely shared on Elon Musk's social media platform X (formerly Twitter) show that Anne Frank's statue has been spray-painted with the slogan "Free Gaza". Additionally, using a red spray-paint, desecrators painted the statue's hands red, apparently to signify blood.

The local police, as per an AFP report, have opened an investigation into the latest incident of defacement, which happened sometime during Saturday night and Sunday morning. A suspect is yet to be identified.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:226,&quot;w&quot;:757,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1915}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-orders-mandatory-evacuation-of-children-from-donetsk-over-enemy-bombing-concerns-747079">Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv orders mandatory evacuation of children from Donetsk over 'enemy bombing' concerns</a>

AFP reports that this is the second time that the statue of Anne Frank — one of the world's most recognisable victims of the Holocaust — has been targeted by the pro-Palestine movement.

Previously, it was vandalized on July 9, following which the Amsterdam municipality called for increased protection of the site with video surveillance cameras and nighttime lighting.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:377,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2066}">Who is Anne Frank?</h2>

Anne Frank, who's an icon of the Dutch Jewish community, died aged 16 in a Nazi concentration camp in 1945. Her diary is one of the most influential accounts of the Holocaust, in which tens of thousands of the country's 140,000 Jewish population were wiped by the Nazi German occupation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mount-etna-erupts-puts-on-spectacular-lava-fountain-display-over-sicily-watch-747071">Mount Etna erupts, puts on spectacular ‘lava fountain’ display over Sicily. Watch!</a>

The statue that has been defaced is located in Merwedeplein, near the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam — now a museum dedicated to her story.&nbsp;

Frank, along with her family, took refuge at this house for two years before being captured by the Nazis in 1944. After being captured, the family was sent to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp.

(With inputs from agencies)

Anne Frank's statue in Netherlands' Amsterdam has been defaced with pro-Palestinian graffiti. Anne Frank, a German born Jewish girl killed by Nazis during the World War II, is known for her account of hiding from the Nazi occupiers.

Anne Frank's statue in Netherlands' Amsterdam has been defaced with pro-Palestinian graffiti. Anne Frank, a German born Jewish girl killed by Nazis during the World War II, is known for her account of hiding from the Nazi occupiers. Statue defaced As per images being widely shared on Elon Musk's social media platform X (formerly Twitter) show that Anne Frank's statue has been spray-painted with the slogan "Free Gaza". Additionally, using a red spray-paint, desecrators painted the statue's hands red, apparently to signify blood. The local police, as per an AFP report, have opened an investigation into the latest incident of defacement, which happened sometime during Saturday night and Sunday morning. A suspect is yet to be identified. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv orders mandatory evacuation of children from Donetsk over 'enemy bombing' concerns AFP reports that this is the second time that the statue of Anne Frank — one of the world's most recognisable victims of the Holocaust — has been targeted by the pro-Palestine movement. Previously, it was vandalized on July 9, following which the Amsterdam municipality called for increased protection of the site with video surveillance cameras and nighttime lighting. Who is Anne Frank? Anne Frank, who's an icon of the Dutch Jewish community, died aged 16 in a Nazi concentration camp in 1945. Her diary is one of the most influential accounts of the Holocaust, in which tens of thousands of the country's 140,000 Jewish population were wiped by the Nazi German occupation. Also read | Mount Etna erupts, puts on spectacular ‘lava fountain’ display over Sicily. Watch! The statue that has been defaced is located in Merwedeplein, near the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam — now a museum dedicated to her story. Frank, along with her family, took refuge at this house for two years before being captured by the Nazis in 1944. After being captured, the family was sent to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. (With inputs from agencies)

Bloody hands and more: Vandals target Anne Frank statue in Amsterdam with 'Free Gaza' slogan

US Vice President Kamala Harris's husband Doug&nbsp;Emhoff on Sunday (Aug 4) admitted to having an extramarital affair during his first marriage. The Second Gentleman's admission came after a Daily Mail report&nbsp;claimed that&nbsp;he had gotten his children's nanny pregnant.&nbsp;

Emhoff had a fling with a nanny named Najen Naylor who taught at the private school, attended by his two children. The incident took place more than 15 years ago when he was still married to his then-wife Kerstin.&nbsp;

"During my first marriage, Kerstin and I went through some tough times on account of my actions. I took responsibility, and in the years since, we worked through things as a family and have come out stronger on the other side," Emhoff said in a statement provided&nbsp;to CNN.

According to the British tabloid, Naylor did not keep the baby, a close friend with knowledge of the pregnancy revealed. However, it is not clear what exactly the friend meant by 'not keeping the baby'.&nbsp;

Emhoff got married to Harris in 2014 but his relationship with&nbsp;Kerstin had ended years ago before he even started dating the future vice president.&nbsp;

Notably, the news about the relationship and the infidelity were known to Joe Biden's vetting committee four years ago when Harris was undergoing the running mate process before being picked as the VP nominee.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, the news breaking out in the public domain may have caused concerns in the Harris' camp, especially ahead of the hotly-anticipated debate against Donald Trump, tentatively scheduled for next month.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US: Kamala Harris' campaign raises $310 million in July

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&nbsp;

<h2>Harris selected as Democrat nominee</h2>

Harris officially secured the Democratic Party's presidential nomination on Friday (Aug 2), much ahead of the party's national convention where the picks are usually formalised.&nbsp;

“I am honoured to be the presumptive Democratic nominee for President of the United States," Kamala Harris, said on a phone-in to a party celebration after securing enough votes by the second day of the marathon vote.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-dares-donald-trump-to-debate-say-it-to-my-face-745852" target="_blank">Kamala Harris dares Donald Trump to debate: 'Say it to my face!'</a>

In the two weeks since US President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid, Harris has gained full control of the party - bringing in over $300 million in donations to her campaign.

She is currently in the last stage of picking a VP nominee and is expected to make her&nbsp;first public appearance with the running mate on Tuesday (Aug 6) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—a crucial swing state.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris's husband Doug Emhoff on Sunday (Aug 4) admitted to having an extramarital affair during his first marriage. The Second Gentleman's admission came after a Daily Mail report claimed that he had gotten his children's nanny pregnant.

US Vice President Kamala Harris's husband Doug Emhoff on Sunday (Aug 4) admitted to having an extramarital affair during his first marriage. The Second Gentleman's admission came after a Daily Mail report claimed that he had gotten his children's nanny pregnant. Emhoff had a fling with a nanny named Najen Naylor who taught at the private school, attended by his two children. The incident took place more than 15 years ago when he was still married to his then-wife Kerstin. "During my first marriage, Kerstin and I went through some tough times on account of my actions. I took responsibility, and in the years since, we worked through things as a family and have come out stronger on the other side," Emhoff said in a statement provided to CNN. According to the British tabloid, Naylor did not keep the baby, a close friend with knowledge of the pregnancy revealed. However, it is not clear what exactly the friend meant by 'not keeping the baby'. Emhoff got married to Harris in 2014 but his relationship with Kerstin had ended years ago before he even started dating the future vice president. Notably, the news about the relationship and the infidelity were known to Joe Biden's vetting committee four years ago when Harris was undergoing the running mate process before being picked as the VP nominee. However, the news breaking out in the public domain may have caused concerns in the Harris' camp, especially ahead of the hotly-anticipated debate against Donald Trump, tentatively scheduled for next month. Watch | US: Kamala Harris' campaign raises $310 million in July × Harris selected as Democrat nominee Harris officially secured the Democratic Party's presidential nomination on Friday (Aug 2), much ahead of the party's national convention where the picks are usually formalised. “I am honoured to be the presumptive Democratic nominee for President of the United States," Kamala Harris, said on a phone-in to a party celebration after securing enough votes by the second day of the marathon vote. Also read | Kamala Harris dares Donald Trump to debate: 'Say it to my face!' In the two weeks since US President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid, Harris has gained full control of the party - bringing in over $300 million in donations to her campaign. She is currently in the last stage of picking a VP nominee and is expected to make her first public appearance with the running mate on Tuesday (Aug 6) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—a crucial swing state. (With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris’ husband Doug Emhoff admits to cheating during first marriage

After much criticism, the US government has revoked a pre-trial agreement reached with three men accused of plotting the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.&nbsp;US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin sent a memo to Susan Escallier - the official overseeing the war court proceedings.&nbsp;

Austin said given the gravity of the case, the final decision regarding the fate of the accused persons should 'rest with' him.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I have determined that in light of the significance of the decision to enter into pre-trial agreements with the accused…responsibility for such a decision should rest with me as the superior authority," wrote Austin in the memo.&nbsp;

"I hereby withdraw your authority. Effective immediately, in the exercise of my authority, I hereby withdraw from the three pre-trial agreements," added&nbsp;Austin referring to&nbsp;Escallier.&nbsp;

The three accused, Khalid Sheikh Mohammad, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin Attash, and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al-Hawsawi have been held at the US Navy base Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for years without going to trial.

Earlier this week,&nbsp;Escallier announced she had signed a deal with Khalid, the alleged mastermind of the attack and his accomplices. In exchange for the trio's guilty pleas, they would have&nbsp;been sentenced to life in prison - sparing them the death penalty, according to the original deal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-happened-on-september-11-2001-911-attacks-326755">Watch |&nbsp;What happened on September 11, 2001? | 9/11 attacks</a>

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<h2>Criticism pours in&nbsp;</h2>

The decision immediately drew criticism from all quarters with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell leading the pack.&nbsp;

"The only thing worse than negotiating with terrorists is negotiating with them after they are in custody," said McConnell at the time.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/911-mastermind-and-accomplices-reach-plea-agreement-746070">Also read |&nbsp;US reaches plea agreement with men accused as main plotters of 9/11</a>

Additionally, some of the victims' families were also distraught that the men accused of killing their loved ones had made a plea with the US government and effectively sidestepped the death penalty.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The three men have been accused of a litany of charges, including attacking civilians, murder in violation of the laws of war, hijacking and terrorism.

Notably, Pentagon officials claimed that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were not involved in Austin's decision to rescind the controversial deal.&nbsp;

According to reports, the Biden administration had reportedly rejected the terms of a plea in September last year. The 9/11 attack was the deadliest assault on the US since the World War II when the Japanese attacked the Pearl Harbour in Hawaii in 1941, killing 2,400 people.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After much criticism, the US government has revoked a pre-trial agreement reached with three men accused of plotting the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin sent a memo to Susan Escallier - the official overseeing the war court proceedings.

After much criticism, the US government has revoked a pre-trial agreement reached with three men accused of plotting the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin sent a memo to Susan Escallier - the official overseeing the war court proceedings. Austin said given the gravity of the case, the final decision regarding the fate of the accused persons should 'rest with' him. "I have determined that in light of the significance of the decision to enter into pre-trial agreements with the accused…responsibility for such a decision should rest with me as the superior authority," wrote Austin in the memo. "I hereby withdraw your authority. Effective immediately, in the exercise of my authority, I hereby withdraw from the three pre-trial agreements," added Austin referring to Escallier. The three accused, Khalid Sheikh Mohammad, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin Attash, and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al-Hawsawi have been held at the US Navy base Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for years without going to trial. Earlier this week, Escallier announced she had signed a deal with Khalid, the alleged mastermind of the attack and his accomplices. In exchange for the trio's guilty pleas, they would have been sentenced to life in prison - sparing them the death penalty, according to the original deal. Watch | What happened on September 11, 2001? | 9/11 attacks × Criticism pours in The decision immediately drew criticism from all quarters with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell leading the pack. "The only thing worse than negotiating with terrorists is negotiating with them after they are in custody," said McConnell at the time. Also read | US reaches plea agreement with men accused as main plotters of 9/11 Additionally, some of the victims' families were also distraught that the men accused of killing their loved ones had made a plea with the US government and effectively sidestepped the death penalty. The three men have been accused of a litany of charges, including attacking civilians, murder in violation of the laws of war, hijacking and terrorism. Notably, Pentagon officials claimed that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were not involved in Austin's decision to rescind the controversial deal. According to reports, the Biden administration had reportedly rejected the terms of a plea in September last year. The 9/11 attack was the deadliest assault on the US since the World War II when the Japanese attacked the Pearl Harbour in Hawaii in 1941, killing 2,400 people. (With inputs from agencies)

US revokes plea deal made with three accused 9/11 plotters

An Israeli drone strike killed five people in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, the Palestinian press agency Wafa and Palestinian sources reported, while the Israeli military said it struck a "terrorist cell" in the Tulkarem region.

The director of the Thabet Thabet Hospital in Tulkarem said in a statement that "five martyrs" had arrived at the facility after "an Israeli drone strike on a Palestinian vehicle close to the village of Zeita in Tulkarem".

According to Wafa, an Israeli military drone targeted a vehicle "with two missiles" which caught fire, killing five men.

At the scene of the strike a witness told AFP, "I live less than 50 metres (yards) from here. We came (after) the sound of an explosion and saw a vehicle on fire" on the road towards Zeita, to the north of Tulkarem.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: IDF announces that Deif was killed on July 13

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&nbsp;

"Next to it, we saw a body lying on the road. Inside the vehicle, there were three charred bodies, from what we were able to see, completely burnt," added Nasser, who declined to have his last name published.&nbsp;

The Israeli military quickly sealed off the area, Wafa reported.&nbsp;

The Israeli military said it had carried out an airstrike against a militant cell around the West Bank city of Tulkarm. Hamas media said a vehicle carrying fighters had been struck and that one of the commanders of its Tulkarm brigades was killed.

Alongside the Israel-Hamas war that began last October in the Gaza Strip, violence has intensified in the West Bank.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-mossad-hired-iranian-agents-to-plant-bomb-in-hamas-chiefs-guesthouse-746755">Also read |&nbsp;Israel's Mossad hired Iranian agents to plant bomb in Hamas chief's guesthouse room: Report</a>

At least 594 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli troops and settlers in the West Bank since October 7, according to an AFP tally based on Palestinian health ministry figures.&nbsp;

At least 17 Israelis, including soldiers, have been killed by Palestinian attacks in the West Bank over the same period, according to official Israeli figures.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

An Israeli drone strike killed five people in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, the Palestinian press agency Wafa and Palestinian sources reported, while the Israeli military said it struck a "terrorist cell" in the Tulkarem region.

An Israeli drone strike killed five people in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, the Palestinian press agency Wafa and Palestinian sources reported, while the Israeli military said it struck a "terrorist cell" in the Tulkarem region. The director of the Thabet Thabet Hospital in Tulkarem said in a statement that "five martyrs" had arrived at the facility after "an Israeli drone strike on a Palestinian vehicle close to the village of Zeita in Tulkarem". According to Wafa, an Israeli military drone targeted a vehicle "with two missiles" which caught fire, killing five men. At the scene of the strike a witness told AFP, "I live less than 50 metres (yards) from here. We came (after) the sound of an explosion and saw a vehicle on fire" on the road towards Zeita, to the north of Tulkarem. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: IDF announces that Deif was killed on July 13 × "Next to it, we saw a body lying on the road. Inside the vehicle, there were three charred bodies, from what we were able to see, completely burnt," added Nasser, who declined to have his last name published. The Israeli military quickly sealed off the area, Wafa reported. The Israeli military said it had carried out an airstrike against a militant cell around the West Bank city of Tulkarm. Hamas media said a vehicle carrying fighters had been struck and that one of the commanders of its Tulkarm brigades was killed. Alongside the Israel-Hamas war that began last October in the Gaza Strip, violence has intensified in the West Bank. Also read | Israel's Mossad hired Iranian agents to plant bomb in Hamas chief's guesthouse room: Report At least 594 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli troops and settlers in the West Bank since October 7, according to an AFP tally based on Palestinian health ministry figures. At least 17 Israelis, including soldiers, have been killed by Palestinian attacks in the West Bank over the same period, according to official Israeli figures. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israeli drone strike in West Bank kills 5, including Hamas commander

A passenger aboard an American Airlines flight has been arrested and charged after he ate too many marijuana edibles and attempted to have sex with a flight attendant. The man, identified as 26-year-old Eric Nicholas Gapco, a New Jersey resident, also tried to open the plane's door mid-flight multiple times.&nbsp;

Gapco was on flight 2101 bound for Dallas from Seattle on July 18 when he began going off the rails. According to the criminal complaint filed,&nbsp; Gapco removed his shirt, took a hit from his vape pen, and started yelling and hitting on a crew member before propositioning sex to her while allegedly assaulting another.&nbsp;

In one of the video footage of the incident, Gapco could be seen bare-chested and shouting "I&nbsp;am sane!" as the crew members tried to sober him up near the plane's lavatory.&nbsp;

However, after the&nbsp;Delanco man refused to take his seat, flight attendants shackled his hands and feet with restraints — while the captain made an emergency landing in Salt Lake City.&nbsp;After the plane landed, the police arrested Gacpo around 11 am local time.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mia-bound-american-airlines-flight-evacuated-passengers-jostle-up-for-baggage-as-fire-breaks-out-740799">Watch |&nbsp;MIA-bound American Airlines flight evacuated: Passengers jostle up for baggage as fire breaks out</a>

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<h2>10 marijuana pills&nbsp;</h2>

The complaint added that Gapco allegedly tried to slip another passenger a bag of unidentified pills.&nbsp;

When quizzed about the illegal drugs, Gacpo initially refused to have taken any before confiding in the arresting officer that he ate "approximately 10 marijuana edibles" without having any idea how strong they were.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-american-airlines-flight-forced-to-land-after-engine-gets-engulfed-in-flames-585482">Also read |&nbsp;American Airlines flight forced to land after engine gets engulfed in flames</a>&nbsp;

A federal grand jury has indicted Gapco on charges of interference with a flight crew and attempted damage to an aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States.

"A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging an alleged unruly passenger onboard an American Airlines flight after engaging in disruptive and life-threatening behaviour, including attempting to open the aircraft exterior doors mid-flight." said the US Attorney's Office.&nbsp;

The case is being investigated jointly by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office and Salt Lake City Police Department.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A passenger aboard an American Airlines flight has been arrested and charged after he ate too many marijuana edibles and attempted to have sex with a flight attendant.

A passenger aboard an American Airlines flight has been arrested and charged after he ate too many marijuana edibles and attempted to have sex with a flight attendant. The man, identified as 26-year-old Eric Nicholas Gapco, a New Jersey resident, also tried to open the plane's door mid-flight multiple times. Gapco was on flight 2101 bound for Dallas from Seattle on July 18 when he began going off the rails. According to the criminal complaint filed, Gapco removed his shirt, took a hit from his vape pen, and started yelling and hitting on a crew member before propositioning sex to her while allegedly assaulting another. In one of the video footage of the incident, Gapco could be seen bare-chested and shouting "I am sane!" as the crew members tried to sober him up near the plane's lavatory. However, after the Delanco man refused to take his seat, flight attendants shackled his hands and feet with restraints — while the captain made an emergency landing in Salt Lake City. After the plane landed, the police arrested Gacpo around 11 am local time. Watch | MIA-bound American Airlines flight evacuated: Passengers jostle up for baggage as fire breaks out × 10 marijuana pills The complaint added that Gapco allegedly tried to slip another passenger a bag of unidentified pills. When quizzed about the illegal drugs, Gacpo initially refused to have taken any before confiding in the arresting officer that he ate "approximately 10 marijuana edibles" without having any idea how strong they were. Also read | American Airlines flight forced to land after engine gets engulfed in flames A federal grand jury has indicted Gapco on charges of interference with a flight crew and attempted damage to an aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. "A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging an alleged unruly passenger onboard an American Airlines flight after engaging in disruptive and life-threatening behaviour, including attempting to open the aircraft exterior doors mid-flight." said the US Attorney's Office. The case is being investigated jointly by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office and Salt Lake City Police Department. (With inputs from agencies)

US man gets high on edibles, attempts sex with flight attendant, opens door mid-air

Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group on Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;31) confirmed the death of its senior commander Fuad Shukr, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike on the outskirts of Beirut.&nbsp;

His body was found among the debris of a building in Beirut's southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold, reported news agency Reuters citing Lebanese security sources.

Fuad Shukr's killing marks the most high-profile assassination of a Hezbollah figure in nearly ten months of ongoing conflict with Israel.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:165,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1854}">The Golan Heights attack</h2>

The Israeli military, while announcing the killing late on Tuesday (Jul 30), labelled Shukr as Hezbollah's most senior commander, and accused him of orchestrating the July 27 attack that resulted in the deaths of 12 youngsters in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.&nbsp;

Hezbollah has, however, denied any involvement in this incident.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:83,&quot;y&quot;:307,&quot;w&quot;:620,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:116,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1996}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-faud-shukr-the-hezbollah-senior-terrorist-israel-claims-to-have-eliminated-in-beirut-745752">Who is Faud Shukr? The Hezbollah 'senior terrorist' Israel claims to have 'eliminated' in Beirut</a>

Hezbollah stated that its Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah would address the nation during Shukr's funeral. Shukr was known to be an advisor to Nasrallah.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Galant justified the strike, asserting that Shukr was responsible for numerous Israeli deaths.

He "has the blood of many Israelis on his hands. Tonight, we have shown that the blood of our people has a price and that there is no place out of reach for our forces to this end," Gallant said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-leaders-vow-ismail-haniyehs-death-will-not-go-unanswered-calls-it-a-heinous-terrorist-crime-745827">Global community reacts to Ismail Haniyeh's assassination, Hamas vows it 'will not go unanswered'</a>

The aftermath of the attack left the top corner of a multi-storey building demolished, with charred debris scattered across the vicinity. The strike also claimed the lives of at least two women and two children, according to medical and security sources.

Hezbollah parliamentarian Ali Ammar condemned the strike and vowed readiness for war.

"This enemy (Israel) demands war and we are up for it, God willing, we are up for it," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group on Wednesday (Jul 31) confirmed the death of its senior commander Fuad Shukr, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike on the outskirts of Beirut.

Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group on Wednesday (Jul 31) confirmed the death of its senior commander Fuad Shukr, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike on the outskirts of Beirut. His body was found among the debris of a building in Beirut's southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold, reported news agency Reuters citing Lebanese security sources. Fuad Shukr's killing marks the most high-profile assassination of a Hezbollah figure in nearly ten months of ongoing conflict with Israel. The Golan Heights attack The Israeli military, while announcing the killing late on Tuesday (Jul 30), labelled Shukr as Hezbollah's most senior commander, and accused him of orchestrating the July 27 attack that resulted in the deaths of 12 youngsters in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Hezbollah has, however, denied any involvement in this incident. Also read | Who is Faud Shukr? The Hezbollah 'senior terrorist' Israel claims to have 'eliminated' in Beirut Hezbollah stated that its Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah would address the nation during Shukr's funeral. Shukr was known to be an advisor to Nasrallah. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Galant justified the strike, asserting that Shukr was responsible for numerous Israeli deaths. He "has the blood of many Israelis on his hands. Tonight, we have shown that the blood of our people has a price and that there is no place out of reach for our forces to this end," Gallant said. Also read | Global community reacts to Ismail Haniyeh's assassination, Hamas vows it 'will not go unanswered' The aftermath of the attack left the top corner of a multi-storey building demolished, with charred debris scattered across the vicinity. The strike also claimed the lives of at least two women and two children, according to medical and security sources. Hezbollah parliamentarian Ali Ammar condemned the strike and vowed readiness for war. "This enemy (Israel) demands war and we are up for it, God willing, we are up for it," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Hezbollah confirms top commander's assassination; Faud Shukr's body found in Beirut building's rubble

A New York state appeals court on Thursday (Aug 1) rejected Donald&nbsp;Trump's challenge to a gag order in his hush money criminal case, where the former US president was convicted in May on charges stemming from hush money paid to a porn star.

The decision by the Appellate Division in Manhattan means&nbsp;Trump, the Republican presidential nominee in the November 5 election, cannot comment publicly about individual prosecutors and others in the case until Justice Juan Merchan sentences him on September 18.

Trump's lawyers did not immediately respond to a request for comment. They argued that the gag order violated his constitutional free speech rights under the First Amendment.

Merchan imposed the gag order a few weeks before the trial began on April 22, saying&nbsp;Trump's history of threatening statements could derail the proceedings.

Watch |&nbsp;Former US President Donald Trump found guilty in hush money case

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The order initially prevented&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;from commenting on prosecutors and court staff, witnesses and jurors.

Merchan lifted the restrictions on witnesses and jurors in June, after the trial ended.

The appeals court had upheld Merchan's original gag order in May, citing the need to protect people from "threats, intimidation, harassment, and harm," and rejecting&nbsp;Trump's First Amendment argument.

Jurors on May 30 found&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;guilty of falsifying business records to cover up former personal lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen's $130,000 payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-found-guilty-live-the-7-things-that-helped-prove-donald-trumps-guilt-in-hush-money-trial-727339">Also read |&nbsp;Hush money case: Trump campaign announces $35mn fundraising haul after guilty verdict</a>

The payments were made in exchange for her silence before the 2016 election about a sexual encounter she says she had with&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;a decade earlier, which&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;denied.

Trump&nbsp;defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016 to win the presidency. He has vowed to appeal his conviction after he is sentenced.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A New York state appeals court on Thursday (Aug 1) rejected Donald Trump's challenge to a gag order in his hush money criminal case, where the former US president was convicted in May on charges stemming from hush money paid to a porn star.

A New York state appeals court on Thursday (Aug 1) rejected Donald Trump's challenge to a gag order in his hush money criminal case, where the former US president was convicted in May on charges stemming from hush money paid to a porn star. The decision by the Appellate Division in Manhattan means Trump, the Republican presidential nominee in the November 5 election, cannot comment publicly about individual prosecutors and others in the case until Justice Juan Merchan sentences him on September 18. Trump's lawyers did not immediately respond to a request for comment. They argued that the gag order violated his constitutional free speech rights under the First Amendment. Merchan imposed the gag order a few weeks before the trial began on April 22, saying Trump's history of threatening statements could derail the proceedings. Watch | Former US President Donald Trump found guilty in hush money case × The order initially prevented Trump from commenting on prosecutors and court staff, witnesses and jurors. Merchan lifted the restrictions on witnesses and jurors in June, after the trial ended. The appeals court had upheld Merchan's original gag order in May, citing the need to protect people from "threats, intimidation, harassment, and harm," and rejecting Trump's First Amendment argument. Jurors on May 30 found Trump guilty of falsifying business records to cover up former personal lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen's $130,000 payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. Also read | Hush money case: Trump campaign announces $35mn fundraising haul after guilty verdict The payments were made in exchange for her silence before the 2016 election about a sexual encounter she says she had with Trump a decade earlier, which Trump denied. Trump defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016 to win the presidency. He has vowed to appeal his conviction after he is sentenced. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Trump hush money case: Former US prez loses appeal against gag order

Israel on Tuesday (Jul&nbsp;30) announced that it has "eliminated" Faud Shukr, an elusive Hezbollah military commander. Accusing Shukr of being behind the rocket strike on the annexed Golan strike, Israel said the military commander was killed using fighter jets in the Beirut area.

Earlier, reports suggested that while there were casualties due to the Israeli fighter jet attack, Faud Shukr had escaped. However, the Israeli military in a statement said,&nbsp;"Israeli air force fighter jets eliminated the Hezbollah terrorist organisation's most senior military commander and the head of its strategic unit, Fuad Shukr, in the area of Beirut."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:150,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1990}">Who is Faud Shukr?</h2>

Faud Shukr, as per an AFP report citing an anonymous source close to Hezbollah, was the successor of the group's top commander Imad Mughniyeh — killed in a 2008 car bombing in Damascus that the Iran-backed group blames Israel for.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:243,&quot;w&quot;:624,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2083}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-army-says-it-carried-out-targeted-strike-in-beirut-745704">Israel says it struck Beirut, targeted Hezbollah commander behind Golan Heights attack</a>

A shadowy figure, Shukr went by the nom de guerre Hajj Mohsen Shukr, and "commands military operations in southern Lebanon".

He is wanted in the US for playing "a central role" in the deadly 1983 bombing of the US Marine Corps barracks in Beirut.

In 2017, describing him as "a senior adviser" to Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, the US Treasury offered a $5 million bounty for information on Shukr's whereabouts.

<img alt="Faud Shukr" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:405,&quot;w&quot;:2047,&quot;h&quot;:1200,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2245}" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ad8ddeb-2ebc-4703-8f71-b56a843aa1cd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/21-July-Fuad-Shukr-English.jpg" />

As per&nbsp;Israeli military spokesperson&nbsp;Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, he was a "senior terrorist who has the blood of Israelis and many others on his hands".

In a video statement, Hagari blamed Shukr for the "Majdal Shams massacre," the Saturday (July 27) attack on Golan Heights that claimed the lives of a dozen children.

"Fuad Shukr was the commander responsible for the Majdal Shams massacre, in which 12 children were murdered after Hezbollah fired an Iranian Falaq-1 rocket directly at a soccer field in northern Israel on Saturday evening," said Hagari.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1771,&quot;w&quot;:713,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3611}" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/facebook-targeting-trump-meta-calls-july-13-assassination-attempt-fictional-event-and-misinformation-745472">Facebook targeting Trump? Meta calls July 13 assassination attempt 'fictional event' and 'misinformation'</a>

He also claimed that the slain Hezbollah commander was the "right-hand man to Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah's leader, and his adviser in planning and directing attacks and operations."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1873,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3713}">Responsible for Hezbollah attacks on Israel</h2>

The Israeli military alleged that Faud Shukr was behind most of the militant group's advanced weaponry. This, it said, includes precise-guided missiles, cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, long-range rockets and UAVs.

Allegedly, he was also "directly involved" in the abduction of the bodies of three Israeli soldiers — Benyamin Avraham, Adi Avitan and Omar Sawaid. In the 1990s, the&nbsp;Israeli soldiers were killed by Hezbollah while patrolling the security fence adjacent to Har Dov, it added.

"Since then, he has planned and directed numerous terror attacks against innocent civilians," it said, as quoted by AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Tuesday (Jul 30) announced that it has "eliminated" Faud Shukr, an elusive Hezbollah military commander. Accusing Shukr of being behind the rocket strike on the annexed Golan strike, Israel said the military commander was killed using fighter jets in the Beirut area.

Israel on Tuesday (Jul 30) announced that it has "eliminated" Faud Shukr, an elusive Hezbollah military commander. Accusing Shukr of being behind the rocket strike on the annexed Golan strike, Israel said the military commander was killed using fighter jets in the Beirut area. Earlier, reports suggested that while there were casualties due to the Israeli fighter jet attack, Faud Shukr had escaped. However, the Israeli military in a statement said, "Israeli air force fighter jets eliminated the Hezbollah terrorist organisation's most senior military commander and the head of its strategic unit, Fuad Shukr, in the area of Beirut." Who is Faud Shukr? Faud Shukr, as per an AFP report citing an anonymous source close to Hezbollah, was the successor of the group's top commander Imad Mughniyeh — killed in a 2008 car bombing in Damascus that the Iran-backed group blames Israel for. Also read | Israel says it struck Beirut, targeted Hezbollah commander behind Golan Heights attack A shadowy figure, Shukr went by the nom de guerre Hajj Mohsen Shukr, and "commands military operations in southern Lebanon". He is wanted in the US for playing "a central role" in the deadly 1983 bombing of the US Marine Corps barracks in Beirut. In 2017, describing him as "a senior adviser" to Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, the US Treasury offered a $5 million bounty for information on Shukr's whereabouts. As per Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, he was a "senior terrorist who has the blood of Israelis and many others on his hands". In a video statement, Hagari blamed Shukr for the "Majdal Shams massacre," the Saturday (July 27) attack on Golan Heights that claimed the lives of a dozen children. "Fuad Shukr was the commander responsible for the Majdal Shams massacre, in which 12 children were murdered after Hezbollah fired an Iranian Falaq-1 rocket directly at a soccer field in northern Israel on Saturday evening," said Hagari. Also read | Facebook targeting Trump? Meta calls July 13 assassination attempt 'fictional event' and 'misinformation' He also claimed that the slain Hezbollah commander was the "right-hand man to Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah's leader, and his adviser in planning and directing attacks and operations." Responsible for Hezbollah attacks on Israel The Israeli military alleged that Faud Shukr was behind most of the militant group's advanced weaponry. This, it said, includes precise-guided missiles, cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, long-range rockets and UAVs. Allegedly, he was also "directly involved" in the abduction of the bodies of three Israeli soldiers — Benyamin Avraham, Adi Avitan and Omar Sawaid. In the 1990s, the Israeli soldiers were killed by Hezbollah while patrolling the security fence adjacent to Har Dov, it added. "Since then, he has planned and directed numerous terror attacks against innocent civilians," it said, as quoted by AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Faud Shukr? The Hezbollah 'senior terrorist' Israel claims to have 'eliminated' in Beirut

As the Gaza war continues for almost 10 months, Hezbollah has confirmed that its top commander Faud Shukr was assassinated in an Israeli strike. The senior commander's body has been discovered.

Meanwhile, In India, the death toll from the landslides in Kerala's Wayanad has risen to 256, even as over 200 people remain missing.

With the US elections fast approaching, Donald Trump has accused his Democratic rival Kamala Harris of "turning black" for political gains. Responding, Harris called&nbsp;the attack&nbsp;"the same old show" of "divisiveness and disrespect." In other news, the mastermind behind the tragic 9/11 attack and his two accomplices&nbsp;have entered into a pre-trial agreement with the US.

Click on the headlines for more

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:231,&quot;w&quot;:699,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1988}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-confirms-top-commanders-assassination-faud-shukrs-body-found-in-beirut-buildings-rubble-746074">Hezbollah confirms top commander's assassination; Faud Shukr's body found in Beirut building's rubble</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/01/446803-new-wion-2024-08-01t075249419.png?imwidth=400" />

Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group on Wednesday (July 31) confirmed the death of its senior commander Fuad Shukr, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike on the outskirts of Beirut.&nbsp;

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:734,&quot;w&quot;:424,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2491}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wayanad-landslides-toll-rises-to-256-over-200-still-missing-746091">Wayanad landslides: Toll rises to 256, over 200 still missing</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/01/446852-untitled-design-27.png?imwidth=640" />

At least 256 people have died and around 200 are still missing after massive landslides struck the hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerela's Wayanad.

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1188,&quot;w&quot;:401,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2945}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/911-mastermind-and-accomplices-reach-plea-agreement-746070">9/11 mastermind and accomplices reach plea agreement</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1221,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:353,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2978}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/01/446814-untitled-design-24.png?imwidth=400" />

Three of the men accused of plotting the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks have entered into a pre-trial agreement, the US Department of Defence says.

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1642,&quot;w&quot;:709,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3399}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-fake-trump-accuses-harris-of-turning-black-for-political-gain-kamala-calls-attack-same-old-show-746093">'Fake, fake': Trump accuses Harris of 'turning black' for political gain; Kamala calls attack 'same old show'</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1692,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:353,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3449}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/01/446818-new-wion-2024-08-01t083436449.png?imwidth=400" />

Donald Trump is truly the king of controversy. The Republican presidential candidate, known for his penchant for giving his rivals derisive nicknames — like 'sleepy Joe' — has now questioned the US Vice President Kamala Harris's racial identity.

Watch |&nbsp;India: IMD issues 'red alert' for Delhi-NCR after heavy rains

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As the Gaza war continues for almost 10 months, Hezbollah has confirmed that its top commander Faud Shukr was assassinated in an Israeli strike. The senior commander's body has been discovered.

As the Gaza war continues for almost 10 months, Hezbollah has confirmed that its top commander Faud Shukr was assassinated in an Israeli strike. The senior commander's body has been discovered. Meanwhile, In India, the death toll from the landslides in Kerala's Wayanad has risen to 256, even as over 200 people remain missing. With the US elections fast approaching, Donald Trump has accused his Democratic rival Kamala Harris of "turning black" for political gains. Responding, Harris called the attack "the same old show" of "divisiveness and disrespect." In other news, the mastermind behind the tragic 9/11 attack and his two accomplices have entered into a pre-trial agreement with the US. Click on the headlines for more Hezbollah confirms top commander's assassination; Faud Shukr's body found in Beirut building's rubble Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group on Wednesday (July 31) confirmed the death of its senior commander Fuad Shukr, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike on the outskirts of Beirut. Wayanad landslides: Toll rises to 256, over 200 still missing At least 256 people have died and around 200 are still missing after massive landslides struck the hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerela's Wayanad. 9/11 mastermind and accomplices reach plea agreement Three of the men accused of plotting the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks have entered into a pre-trial agreement, the US Department of Defence says. 'Fake, fake': Trump accuses Harris of 'turning black' for political gain; Kamala calls attack 'same old show' Donald Trump is truly the king of controversy. The Republican presidential candidate, known for his penchant for giving his rivals derisive nicknames — like 'sleepy Joe' — has now questioned the US Vice President Kamala Harris's racial identity. Watch | India: IMD issues 'red alert' for Delhi-NCR after heavy rains

Morning news brief: Kerala landslide death toll crosses 200; Trump questions Harris' race, and more

India's top yoga guru, Baba Ramdev has been pulled up by the Delhi High Court and directed to remove statements claiming that allopathy was responsible for the deaths of thousands of people during the COVID-19 pandemic and that Patanjali's Coronil was a cure for the deadly virus.

Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani, who had reserved the judgment in May, passed the interim order on Monday (Jul 29), directing Ramdev, his aide Acharya Balkrishna and the company (Patanjali) to comply and refrain from making such allegations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I have directed the defendants to take down certain tweets in three days, if they fail to do it, the social media intermediaries will take down the content," Justice Bhambhani declared.&nbsp;

The court was hearing a defamation suit filed against Patanjali and its promoters by the&nbsp;Resident Doctors' Association of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Rishikesh, Patna and Bhubaneswar.

Additionally,&nbsp;Association of Resident Doctors, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education &amp; Research, Chandigarh, the Union of Resident Doctors of Punjab (URDP) among several others were also part of the suit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-misleading-marketing-needs-fix-in-india-714388">Watch |&nbsp;Why misleading marketing needs fix in India</a>

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<h2>What did the suit claim?</h2>

The complainants argued that Baba Ramdev, through his misleading claims was sowing doubts in the minds of the general public regarding the benefits of modern medicine.&nbsp;

“The misinformation campaign as to the alleged ill-effects and lack of efficacy of allopathy during the ongoing pandemic have the propensity to divert people from allopathic treatments prescribed as the standard form of care even by the Government of India," the plaint filed by the doctors stated.

"It directly violates the right to health of persons in India/citizens of India, which is a facet of Article 21 of the Constitution."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/explained-the-ads-case-against-patanjali-710471">Also read| |&nbsp;Explained: The ads case against Patanjali</a>

<h2>SC threatens Patanjali</h2>

Last year, the Supreme Court threatened to impose a penalty of $120,000 on Patanjali if the company did not stop making false and misleading claims in advertisements about its medicines.&nbsp;At the time, the apex court was hearing a petition filed by the&nbsp;Indian Medical Association (IMA).&nbsp;

In 2022, the then Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana had also instructed the&nbsp;yoga guru to rein in his beliefs.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"What happened to Baba Ramdev? He can popularise his system, but why should he criticise other systems. We all respect him, he popularized yoga but he shouldn't criticize other systems. What is the guarantee that his system will work? He cannot refuse doctor system. He must exercise restraint in abusing other systems," observed the former CJI.&nbsp;

Baba Ramdev is a popular figure in India. He founded Patanjali with his aide Balkrishna in 2006 and since then, the company has transformed into a multi-billion dollar enterprise but has come under heavy scrutiny for its illegal marketing practices.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's top yoga guru, Baba Ramdev has been pulled up by the Delhi High Court and directed to remove statements claiming that allopathy was responsible for the deaths of thousands of people during the COVID-19 pandemic and that Patanjali's Coronil was a cure for the deadly virus.

India's top yoga guru, Baba Ramdev has been pulled up by the Delhi High Court and directed to remove statements claiming that allopathy was responsible for the deaths of thousands of people during the COVID-19 pandemic and that Patanjali's Coronil was a cure for the deadly virus. Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani, who had reserved the judgment in May, passed the interim order on Monday (Jul 29), directing Ramdev, his aide Acharya Balkrishna and the company (Patanjali) to comply and refrain from making such allegations. "I have directed the defendants to take down certain tweets in three days, if they fail to do it, the social media intermediaries will take down the content," Justice Bhambhani declared. The court was hearing a defamation suit filed against Patanjali and its promoters by the Resident Doctors' Association of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Rishikesh, Patna and Bhubaneswar. Additionally, Association of Resident Doctors, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, the Union of Resident Doctors of Punjab (URDP) among several others were also part of the suit. Watch | Why misleading marketing needs fix in India × What did the suit claim? The complainants argued that Baba Ramdev, through his misleading claims was sowing doubts in the minds of the general public regarding the benefits of modern medicine. “The misinformation campaign as to the alleged ill-effects and lack of efficacy of allopathy during the ongoing pandemic have the propensity to divert people from allopathic treatments prescribed as the standard form of care even by the Government of India," the plaint filed by the doctors stated. "It directly violates the right to health of persons in India/citizens of India, which is a facet of Article 21 of the Constitution." Also read| | Explained: The ads case against Patanjali SC threatens Patanjali Last year, the Supreme Court threatened to impose a penalty of $120,000 on Patanjali if the company did not stop making false and misleading claims in advertisements about its medicines. At the time, the apex court was hearing a petition filed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA). In 2022, the then Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana had also instructed the yoga guru to rein in his beliefs. "What happened to Baba Ramdev? He can popularise his system, but why should he criticise other systems. We all respect him, he popularized yoga but he shouldn't criticize other systems. What is the guarantee that his system will work? He cannot refuse doctor system. He must exercise restraint in abusing other systems," observed the former CJI. Baba Ramdev is a popular figure in India. He founded Patanjali with his aide Balkrishna in 2006 and since then, the company has transformed into a multi-billion dollar enterprise but has come under heavy scrutiny for its illegal marketing practices. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi High Court orders Yoga guru Baba Ramdev to remove remarks claiming 'Coronil' as COVID-19 cure

On August 5, Pakistan's ex-prime minister, Imran Khan, will complete one year in jail. This has prompted&nbsp;his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), to announce nationwide protests against what they call an "indiscriminate crackdown."

Meanwhile, Turkish President Erdogan hinted at a possible intervention in Israel to support Palestinians amidst the Gaza war, comparing it to Turkey's past actions in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh.

Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar affirmed the growing significance of the Quad during a meeting in Tokyo.

Finally, a US astrologer, who predicted Biden's exit from the presidential race, now forecasts Donald Trump as the next president.

Click on the headlines for more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-to-complete-one-year-in-jail-on-august-5-pti-party-to-protest-against-indiscriminate-crackdown-745105">Imran Khan completes one year in jail on August 5, PTI party to protest against 'indiscriminate crackdown'</a>

August 5 (Monday) marks one year of Pakistan's ex-prime minister, Imran Khan's incarceration. To mark the one year of the imprisonment of the party founder, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced a series of nationwide protests set for August 5.&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/29/446195-new-wion-2024-07-29t092047809.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-turkey-might-enter-israel-to-help-palestinians-says-erdogan-745100">Gaza war: Turkey might enter Israel to help Palestinians, says Erdogan</a>

Turkish President&nbsp;Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday (July 28) that his country might&nbsp;enter Israel as it had done in the past in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh, though he did not spell out what sort of intervention he was suggesting.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/29/446192-untitled.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-is-here-to-grow-indian-foreign-minister-jaishankar-at-tokyo-meet-745112">Quad is here to grow: Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar at Tokyo meet</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/29/446201-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" />

Emphasising the growing importance of Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue), India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that the grouping is "here to stay, here to do and here to grow".&nbsp;Quad is a grouping of four countries, India, the US, Japan and Australia and the foreign ministers of these countries are meeting in the Japanese capital Tokyo today.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-astrologer-who-predicted-bidens-exit-from-us-election-reveals-name-of-next-president-745080">US astrologer who predicted Biden's exit from US election reveals name of next president</a>

An&nbsp;astrologer in the United States (US)&nbsp;who prophesied the exact date President Joe Biden would withdraw from the upcoming presidential election has now revealed the next president. According to stars, the next president would be Donald Trump,&nbsp;Amy Tripp told the New York Post on Saturday (Jul&nbsp;27).&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/29/446182-untitled-design.png?imwidth=400" />

Watch |&nbsp;Russian President slams US move to deploy munitions to Germany

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-slams-us-move-to-deploy-munitions-to-germany-745101/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On August 5, Pakistan's ex-prime minister, Imran Khan, will complete one year in jail. This has prompted his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), to announce nationwide protests against what they call an "indiscriminate crackdown.

On August 5, Pakistan's ex-prime minister, Imran Khan, will complete one year in jail. This has prompted his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), to announce nationwide protests against what they call an "indiscriminate crackdown." Meanwhile, Turkish President Erdogan hinted at a possible intervention in Israel to support Palestinians amidst the Gaza war, comparing it to Turkey's past actions in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh. Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar affirmed the growing significance of the Quad during a meeting in Tokyo. Finally, a US astrologer, who predicted Biden's exit from the presidential race, now forecasts Donald Trump as the next president. Click on the headlines for more Imran Khan completes one year in jail on August 5, PTI party to protest against 'indiscriminate crackdown' August 5 (Monday) marks one year of Pakistan's ex-prime minister, Imran Khan's incarceration. To mark the one year of the imprisonment of the party founder, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced a series of nationwide protests set for August 5. Gaza war: Turkey might enter Israel to help Palestinians, says Erdogan Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday (July 28) that his country might enter Israel as it had done in the past in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh, though he did not spell out what sort of intervention he was suggesting. Quad is here to grow: Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar at Tokyo meet Emphasising the growing importance of Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue), India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that the grouping is "here to stay, here to do and here to grow". Quad is a grouping of four countries, India, the US, Japan and Australia and the foreign ministers of these countries are meeting in the Japanese capital Tokyo today. US astrologer who predicted Biden's exit from US election reveals name of next president An astrologer in the United States (US) who prophesied the exact date President Joe Biden would withdraw from the upcoming presidential election has now revealed the next president. According to stars, the next president would be Donald Trump, Amy Tripp told the New York Post on Saturday (Jul 27). Watch | Russian President slams US move to deploy munitions to Germany

Morning news brief: Imran Khan's one year in jail; Turkey to enter Gaza war? and more

The presidential race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris is heating up, with both candidates plying each other with sharp insults. Trump called Harris "evil" and "unhinged," while Harris described Trump as "just plain weird."

In response to a rocket attack in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has vowed retaliation against Hezbollah, despite the group's denial of involvement.

Meanwhile, Iran is enduring a severe heatwave, prompting the government to close offices and banks.

In other news, India has outlined a roadmap to become a developed nation by 2047, aiming for a $30 trillion economy and a per capita income of $18,000 annually. Finally, the Paris Olympics 2024 faced disruption on the opening day due to the sabotage of French rail lines.

Click on the headlines for more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vs-harris-from-evil-to-just-plain-weird-the-republican-vs-democrat-war-of-words-heat-up-744861">Trump vs Harris: From 'evil' to 'just plain weird' the Republican vs Democrat war of words heat up</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/28/446052-new-wion-2024-07-28t073106805.png?imwidth=400" />

The Donald Trump vs Kamala Harris presidential race is heating up. On Saturday, the two political rivals traded barbs from afar, calling each other names. While Harris Donald Trump "just plain weird," Trump in exchange painted her as an "evil," and "unhinged" person.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/golan-heights-rocket-attack-israeli-pm-netanyahu-says-his-country-wont-stay-silent-744879">Golan Heights rocket attack: Israeli PM Netanyahu says his country won't stay silent</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/28/446064-untitled.png?imwidth=400" />

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Saturday (July 27) that his country&nbsp;won't stay silent after a&nbsp;rocket attack killed 12&nbsp;people, including children, at a football pitch in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Israel blamed Hezbollah for the attack and vowed to respond against the&nbsp;Iran-backed Lebanese group. Hezbollah denied any responsibility (for the strike).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/severe-heatwave-in-iran-forces-govt-to-shutter-govt-offices-banks-744862">Severe heatwave in Iran forces govt to shutter govt offices, banks</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/28/446053-untitled-design.png?imwidth=400" />

Iran is witnessing a severe heatwave that has forced authorities to cut operating hours at various facilities on Saturday (July 27) and order all government and commercial institutions to shutter the following day. Citing weather reports, a report by the news agency Associated Press said that the temperature ranged&nbsp;from 37 degrees Celsius to 43 degrees Celsius in Tehran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-now-knows-what-will-it-take-to-become-developed-nation-by-2047-744857">India now knows what will it take to become developed nation by 2047</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/29/415349-wion-images-2024-02-29t201720656.png?imwidth=400" />

If India is to become a developed economy by 2047, it must do so by effectively acting upon a roadmap to become a $30 trillion economy by then along with a per capita income of $18,000 per annum, according to an approach paper laid out on Saturday (July 27) to encapsulate the vision for developed India (viksit bharat).&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Paris Olympics 2024: French rail lines disrupted by ‘sabotage’ on opening day of games

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/paris-olympics-2024-french-rail-lines-disrupted-by-sabotage-on-opening-day-of-games-744869/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The presidential race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris is heating up, with both candidates plying each other with sharp insults. Trump called Harris "evil" and "unhinged," while Harris described Trump as "just plain weird.

The presidential race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris is heating up, with both candidates plying each other with sharp insults. Trump called Harris "evil" and "unhinged," while Harris described Trump as "just plain weird." In response to a rocket attack in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has vowed retaliation against Hezbollah, despite the group's denial of involvement. Meanwhile, Iran is enduring a severe heatwave, prompting the government to close offices and banks. In other news, India has outlined a roadmap to become a developed nation by 2047, aiming for a $30 trillion economy and a per capita income of $18,000 annually. Finally, the Paris Olympics 2024 faced disruption on the opening day due to the sabotage of French rail lines. Click on the headlines for more Trump vs Harris: From 'evil' to 'just plain weird' the Republican vs Democrat war of words heat up The Donald Trump vs Kamala Harris presidential race is heating up. On Saturday, the two political rivals traded barbs from afar, calling each other names. While Harris Donald Trump "just plain weird," Trump in exchange painted her as an "evil," and "unhinged" person. Golan Heights rocket attack: Israeli PM Netanyahu says his country won't stay silent Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Saturday (July 27) that his country won't stay silent after a rocket attack killed 12 people, including children, at a football pitch in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Israel blamed Hezbollah for the attack and vowed to respond against the Iran-backed Lebanese group. Hezbollah denied any responsibility (for the strike). Severe heatwave in Iran forces govt to shutter govt offices, banks Iran is witnessing a severe heatwave that has forced authorities to cut operating hours at various facilities on Saturday (July 27) and order all government and commercial institutions to shutter the following day. Citing weather reports, a report by the news agency Associated Press said that the temperature ranged from 37 degrees Celsius to 43 degrees Celsius in Tehran. India now knows what will it take to become developed nation by 2047 If India is to become a developed economy by 2047, it must do so by effectively acting upon a roadmap to become a $30 trillion economy by then along with a per capita income of $18,000 per annum, according to an approach paper laid out on Saturday (July 27) to encapsulate the vision for developed India (viksit bharat). Watch | Paris Olympics 2024: French rail lines disrupted by ‘sabotage’ on opening day of games

Morning brief: Trump vs Harris war of words; Netanyahu vows retaliation for Golan Heights attack, and more

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