A pod of killer whales, also known as orcas, attacked and sank a $128,000 yacht in the Mediterranean Sea. Regarded as one of the world's most powerful predators, the orcas launched a coordinated attack on the yacht which lasted almost two hours and left the crew onboard shocked, according to a report in New York Post.

Robert Powell, 59, and his crew were only 22 hours into their 10-day trip&nbsp;from Portugal to Greece when the killer whales approached their yacht, named the 'Bonhomme Willam'.

Five orcas began circling the 39-foot yacht around 8:00 pm (local time) on Wednesday (July 24) before launching the coordinated assault.

“To me, they were not playing at all, they knew exactly what they were doing. They knew the weak points of the boat, and they knew how to sink it.&nbsp;Their sole intention was to sink the boat, and that was it," Powell was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

The boat owner said he felt the first hit at the bottom of the vessel&nbsp;and assumed it was a rock. However, the attacks soon intensified and before he could react, the orcas and their assault rendered the ship immobile.&nbsp;

Afterwards, the killer whales separated and each of them started concentrating on their own section of the boat's exterior - including the keel and stern.&nbsp;

“They were circling. It was like watching wolves hunt.&nbsp;They were taking it in turns to come in — sometimes two would come in at the same time and hit it. So obviously pretty terrifying.”

Powell said he tried everything to deter the intruders, including shooting the firecrackers but the deadly pod did not budge. He and his crew were ultimately rescued by&nbsp;a Spanish salvage vessel just before the yacht plunged deep into the&nbsp;Mediterranean.&nbsp;

Notably, in May, earlier this year, another pod of orcas sank a 50-foot yacht in Moroccan waters by repeatedly slamming into the vessel. Some studies claim that killer whales target the boats for fun.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-scientists-suggest-killer-whales-are-teaching-each-other-to-sink-ships-599316">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Scientists suggest Killer Whales are teaching each other to sink ships</a>

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<h2>How do orcas hunt?</h2>

Orcas are the largest of the dolphins, immediately recognisable by their unique black-and-white colouring. They are at the top of the food chain and have a diverse diet - often feasting on fishes, penguins and marine mammals such as sea lions and even whales.

They hunt in deadly pods, family groups of up to 40 individuals. While resident pods tend to prefer fish, transient pods target marine mammals. However, they all use effective, cooperative hunting techniques - resembling&nbsp;the behaviour of wolf packs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/killer-whales-make-lifelong-sacrifice-for-their-sons-study-560246">Also read |&nbsp;Killer whale mothers make ‘lifelong sacrifice’ for their sons, reveals study</a>

They are notorious for grabbing seals sitting on ice shelves as numerous videos have captured them working in tandem and forcing their prey into water before gulping them up.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A pod of killer whales, also known as orcas, attacked and sank a $128,000 yacht in the Mediterranean Sea. Regarded as one of the world's most powerful predators, the orcas launched a coordinated attack on the yacht which lasted almost two hours and left the crew onboard shocked, according to a report in New York Post.

A pod of killer whales, also known as orcas, attacked and sank a $128,000 yacht in the Mediterranean Sea. Regarded as one of the world's most powerful predators, the orcas launched a coordinated attack on the yacht which lasted almost two hours and left the crew onboard shocked, according to a report in New York Post. Robert Powell, 59, and his crew were only 22 hours into their 10-day trip from Portugal to Greece when the killer whales approached their yacht, named the 'Bonhomme Willam'. Five orcas began circling the 39-foot yacht around 8:00 pm (local time) on Wednesday (July 24) before launching the coordinated assault. “To me, they were not playing at all, they knew exactly what they were doing. They knew the weak points of the boat, and they knew how to sink it. Their sole intention was to sink the boat, and that was it," Powell was quoted as saying. The boat owner said he felt the first hit at the bottom of the vessel and assumed it was a rock. However, the attacks soon intensified and before he could react, the orcas and their assault rendered the ship immobile. Afterwards, the killer whales separated and each of them started concentrating on their own section of the boat's exterior - including the keel and stern. “They were circling. It was like watching wolves hunt. They were taking it in turns to come in — sometimes two would come in at the same time and hit it. So obviously pretty terrifying.” Powell said he tried everything to deter the intruders, including shooting the firecrackers but the deadly pod did not budge. He and his crew were ultimately rescued by a Spanish salvage vessel just before the yacht plunged deep into the Mediterranean. Notably, in May, earlier this year, another pod of orcas sank a 50-foot yacht in Moroccan waters by repeatedly slamming into the vessel. Some studies claim that killer whales target the boats for fun. Watch | Gravitas: Scientists suggest Killer Whales are teaching each other to sink ships × How do orcas hunt? Orcas are the largest of the dolphins, immediately recognisable by their unique black-and-white colouring. They are at the top of the food chain and have a diverse diet - often feasting on fishes, penguins and marine mammals such as sea lions and even whales. They hunt in deadly pods, family groups of up to 40 individuals. While resident pods tend to prefer fish, transient pods target marine mammals. However, they all use effective, cooperative hunting techniques - resembling the behaviour of wolf packs. Also read | Killer whale mothers make ‘lifelong sacrifice’ for their sons, reveals study They are notorious for grabbing seals sitting on ice shelves as numerous videos have captured them working in tandem and forcing their prey into water before gulping them up. (With inputs from agencies)

Killer whales sink 39-feet, $128,000 yacht in harrowing attack in Mediterranean Sea

A Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLC from the eastern Indian state of Bihar has been expelled after he 'mimicked' Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.&nbsp;The Ethics Committee of the Bihar Legislative Council gave the marching orders to MLC Sunil Singh who had attempted to imitate the CM's mannerisms during the council proceedings on February 13, earlier this year.&nbsp;

The acting Council Chairperson Awadhesh Narayan&nbsp;on Friday (Jul 26) approved Singh's expulsion after the committee on Thursday gave the go-ahead upon completing its investigation.&nbsp;

Singh pleaded his innocence saying he did not mimic&nbsp;Nitish and even if he did, it did not warrant an expulsion from the House.&nbsp;

"I never mimicked the CM. Even mimicking the CM does not take away one’s membership from either House. Nitish Kumar is a CM who threatened people like me in the Council saying barbaad kar dunga (I will destroy you). He is a CM who disrespects women. There are several corruption cases during his tenure," said Singh.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Council, Rabri Devi termed the action a “dark chapter”.

“Ye action kala adhaya hai loktantra mein (this action is a dark chapter in democracy). When the government of the poor comes, it is called jungle raj. It is murder of democracy. Everyone raises slogans, a few months back when the BJP was in the Opposition, they also used to enter the well, they also did not let the House function. The government has forgotten everything,” she said.

The decision against Singh came on the final day of the Monsoon session, meaning he will be suspended when the House reconvenes for the next session.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-inaugurates-new-campus-of-nalanda-university-in-bihars-rajgir-733112">Watch |&nbsp;PM Modi inaugurates new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar's Rajgir</a>

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<h2>Nitish targeting RJD?</h2>

Notably, Singh has been a close aide of RJD chief Lalu Prasad for over 20 overs and currently&nbsp;heads the&nbsp;Bihar State Cooperative Marketing Union.&nbsp;

Nitish's party Janata Dal United (JDU) and RJD were in coalition in the state up until the start of the year. However, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Nitish severed ties with RJD as well as INDI Alliance and joined his old ally, the BJP-led&nbsp;NDA.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-cm-nitish-kumars-you-are-a-woman-dont-you-know-anything-remark-sparks-outrage-743894">Also read |&nbsp;Bihar CM Nitish Kumar’s ‘You are a woman, don’t you know anything?’ remark sparks outrage</a>

After tendering his resignation, Nitish took oath as the chief minister of Bihar with the support of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for a record ninth time. Since then, JDU has&nbsp;been at loggerheads with RJD.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLC from the eastern Indian state of Bihar has been expelled after he 'mimicked' Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The Ethics Committee of the Bihar Legislative Council gave the marching orders to MLC Sunil Singh who had attempted to imitate the CM's mannerisms during the council proceedings on February 13, earlier this year.

A Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLC from the eastern Indian state of Bihar has been expelled after he 'mimicked' Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The Ethics Committee of the Bihar Legislative Council gave the marching orders to MLC Sunil Singh who had attempted to imitate the CM's mannerisms during the council proceedings on February 13, earlier this year. The acting Council Chairperson Awadhesh Narayan on Friday (Jul 26) approved Singh's expulsion after the committee on Thursday gave the go-ahead upon completing its investigation. Singh pleaded his innocence saying he did not mimic Nitish and even if he did, it did not warrant an expulsion from the House. "I never mimicked the CM. Even mimicking the CM does not take away one’s membership from either House. Nitish Kumar is a CM who threatened people like me in the Council saying barbaad kar dunga (I will destroy you). He is a CM who disrespects women. There are several corruption cases during his tenure," said Singh. Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Council, Rabri Devi termed the action a “dark chapter”. “Ye action kala adhaya hai loktantra mein (this action is a dark chapter in democracy). When the government of the poor comes, it is called jungle raj. It is murder of democracy. Everyone raises slogans, a few months back when the BJP was in the Opposition, they also used to enter the well, they also did not let the House function. The government has forgotten everything,” she said. The decision against Singh came on the final day of the Monsoon session, meaning he will be suspended when the House reconvenes for the next session. Watch | PM Modi inaugurates new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar's Rajgir × Nitish targeting RJD? Notably, Singh has been a close aide of RJD chief Lalu Prasad for over 20 overs and currently heads the Bihar State Cooperative Marketing Union. Nitish's party Janata Dal United (JDU) and RJD were in coalition in the state up until the start of the year. However, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Nitish severed ties with RJD as well as INDI Alliance and joined his old ally, the BJP-led NDA. Also read | Bihar CM Nitish Kumar’s ‘You are a woman, don’t you know anything?’ remark sparks outrage After tendering his resignation, Nitish took oath as the chief minister of Bihar with the support of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for a record ninth time. Since then, JDU has been at loggerheads with RJD. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Opposition leader expelled from House for 'mimicking' Bihar CM Nitish Kumar

United States President Joe Biden endorsing his Vice President&nbsp;Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for the presidential race, minutes after dropping his re-election bid was a big 'f**k you' to ex-president&nbsp;Barack Obama, a report in the&nbsp;New York Post has claimed.&nbsp; 
 
Biden was forced by the Obamas and&nbsp;other senior Democrat leaders to drop out of the presidential race, multiple reports have claimed in the aftermath. Although the US president&nbsp;said he was dropping out in "defence of the democracy" and for the better of the nation, the Democrat has reportedly remained salty over the treatment meted out to him.&nbsp;

Hence, in an attempt to salvage the situation and assert some of his authority, Biden immediately endorsed Harris, which put the Obamas on the back foot.

“It was Joe’s big f–k you,” a source close to the Biden family cited by the publication said. “Joe reportedly&nbsp;said, ‘If I’m out, then I am endorsing her.'”

The report claimed that Barack Obama and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wanted to hold a "mini primary" which they believe, Harris wouldn't have&nbsp;won.&nbsp;

Another source said that Biden plans on taking an active role in Harris'&nbsp;campaign to further rub in on the former president.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US: Kamala Harris raises record $81 million in campaign funds in 24 hours

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<h2>Obama endorses Harris</h2>

After playing a waiting game, both Barack and Michelle on Friday (Jul 26), endorsed Harris as the&nbsp;Democratic nominee for the November elections.

In a video shared by Harris on her social media accounts, the&nbsp;Obamas could be heard formally endorsing the incumbent vice president.

“We called to say Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you and do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office," said Barack.&nbsp;

“I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl Kamala: I am proud of you,” Michelle said, whilst adding: “This is going to be historic.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj8lIP56L2HAxWJia8BHc2bAJYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/kamala-harris-for-president-after-biden-exits-race-vice-president-enters-what-are-her-chances-743300" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/opinions/kamala-harris-for-president-after-biden-exits-race-vice-president-enters-what-are-her-chances-743300&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj8lIP56L2HAxWJia8BHc2bAJYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Kamala Harris for president: After Biden exits, his vice president enters race, but can she win?</a>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;thanked the Obamas for their support and expressed gratitude for their friendship.

“Oh my goodness. Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me. I’m looking forward to doing this with the two of you, Doug and I both. And getting out there, being on the road,” the vice president said.

Apart from the Obamas, Harris has now received the endorsement from Pelosi,&nbsp;Chuck Schumer, the US Senate majority leader,&nbsp;Hakeem Jeffries, House minority leader and numerous other top Democrats.

With Obama in her corner, next month's Democratic National Convention in Chicago could see Harris being formally named as the party nominee - making her the first India-American woman to fight for the top job.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden endorsing his Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for the presidential race, minutes after dropping his re-election bid was a big 'f**k you' to ex-president Barack Obama, a report in the New York Post has claimed.

United States President Joe Biden endorsing his Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for the presidential race, minutes after dropping his re-election bid was a big 'f**k you' to ex-president Barack Obama, a report in the New York Post has claimed. Biden was forced by the Obamas and other senior Democrat leaders to drop out of the presidential race, multiple reports have claimed in the aftermath. Although the US president said he was dropping out in "defence of the democracy" and for the better of the nation, the Democrat has reportedly remained salty over the treatment meted out to him. Hence, in an attempt to salvage the situation and assert some of his authority, Biden immediately endorsed Harris, which put the Obamas on the back foot. “It was Joe’s big f–k you,” a source close to the Biden family cited by the publication said. “Joe reportedly said, ‘If I’m out, then I am endorsing her.'” The report claimed that Barack Obama and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wanted to hold a "mini primary" which they believe, Harris wouldn't have won. Another source said that Biden plans on taking an active role in Harris' campaign to further rub in on the former president. Watch: US: Kamala Harris raises record $81 million in campaign funds in 24 hours Obama endorses Harris After playing a waiting game, both Barack and Michelle on Friday (Jul 26), endorsed Harris as the Democratic nominee for the November elections. In a video shared by Harris on her social media accounts, the Obamas could be heard formally endorsing the incumbent vice president. “We called to say Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you and do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office," said Barack. “I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl Kamala: I am proud of you,” Michelle said, whilst adding: “This is going to be historic.” Also read: Kamala Harris for president: After Biden exits, his vice president enters race, but can she win? Meanwhile, Harris thanked the Obamas for their support and expressed gratitude for their friendship. “Oh my goodness. Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me. I’m looking forward to doing this with the two of you, Doug and I both. And getting out there, being on the road,” the vice president said. Apart from the Obamas, Harris has now received the endorsement from Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, the US Senate majority leader, Hakeem Jeffries, House minority leader and numerous other top Democrats. With Obama in her corner, next month's Democratic National Convention in Chicago could see Harris being formally named as the party nominee - making her the first India-American woman to fight for the top job. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden endorsing Harris immediately was a 'big f**k you' to Obama: Report

French rail company SNCF said there was no safety issue in operating the trains after saboteurs disrupted the high-speed rail network early on Friday (Jul 26) - hours before the beginning&nbsp;of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony.&nbsp;

SNCF Director of Atlantic, Franck Dubourdieu said although the routes were safe, the trains were delayed and running at lower frequency.&nbsp;

"The fact is just that because of this issue, we we are not able to run the full schedule. And, and now we have one train over three able to operate on the Atlantic Coast. All the trains are operating normally, but with roughly a one&nbsp;to two-hour delay in the east of France. And for the north of France some trains were cancelled, but roughly the other trains are operating with a one-hour delay,"&nbsp;Dubourdieu was quoted as saying by Reuters.

"Today what we can see is that there is no safety issue for operating trains and anyway, we will not operate one train if there is one risk. So that's our main concern to make sure that we travel safely on the French network."

Notably, around 800,000 passengers have been affected by the disruption on a day when France was preparing to show the world its hosting prowess.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/paris-olympics-wion-sports-editors-first-hand-account-of-tight-security-after-rail-sabotage-744526">Watch | Paris Olympics: WION Sports Editor's first-hand account of tight security after rail sabotage</a>

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<h2>Attackers unknown</h2>

No organisation or&nbsp;individual has claimed responsibility for the attacks but given the sheer scale and accuracy, it cannot be ruled out that it was a coordinated programme.&nbsp;

Reports suggest&nbsp;that the French government was zeroing in on certain leftist as well as environmentalist organisations for the attack but so far, they did not have any evidence to back the claims.&nbsp;

"There is an investigation ongoing with the French authorities. All what we know is just that it was definitely targeted on SNCF and on the high-speed train network. The fact is that it wasn't; at this point I cannot say that it was dangerous, but it was really impactful," said&nbsp;Dubourdieu.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-french-high-speed-rail-network-sabotaged-ahead-of-paris-olympics-opening-ceremony-744333">Also read |&nbsp;French high-speed rail network sabotaged ahead of Paris Olympics opening ceremony</a>

According to reports, the cables which are there to ensure the security of train drivers - were set on fire and taken apart by the disruptors.&nbsp;

As for the athletes, two of the four trains carrying them were affected by the outage.&nbsp;SNCF informed that one train was cancelled while authorities were hoping that the other would become operational.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

French rail company SNCF said there was no safety issue in operating the trains after saboteurs disrupted the high-speed rail network early on Friday (Jul 26) - hours before the beginning of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony.

French rail company SNCF said there was no safety issue in operating the trains after saboteurs disrupted the high-speed rail network early on Friday (Jul 26) - hours before the beginning of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. SNCF Director of Atlantic, Franck Dubourdieu said although the routes were safe, the trains were delayed and running at lower frequency. "The fact is just that because of this issue, we we are not able to run the full schedule. And, and now we have one train over three able to operate on the Atlantic Coast. All the trains are operating normally, but with roughly a one to two-hour delay in the east of France. And for the north of France some trains were cancelled, but roughly the other trains are operating with a one-hour delay," Dubourdieu was quoted as saying by Reuters. "Today what we can see is that there is no safety issue for operating trains and anyway, we will not operate one train if there is one risk. So that's our main concern to make sure that we travel safely on the French network." Notably, around 800,000 passengers have been affected by the disruption on a day when France was preparing to show the world its hosting prowess. Watch | Paris Olympics: WION Sports Editor's first-hand account of tight security after rail sabotage × Attackers unknown No organisation or individual has claimed responsibility for the attacks but given the sheer scale and accuracy, it cannot be ruled out that it was a coordinated programme. Reports suggest that the French government was zeroing in on certain leftist as well as environmentalist organisations for the attack but so far, they did not have any evidence to back the claims. "There is an investigation ongoing with the French authorities. All what we know is just that it was definitely targeted on SNCF and on the high-speed train network. The fact is that it wasn't; at this point I cannot say that it was dangerous, but it was really impactful," said Dubourdieu. Also read | French high-speed rail network sabotaged ahead of Paris Olympics opening ceremony According to reports, the cables which are there to ensure the security of train drivers - were set on fire and taken apart by the disruptors. As for the athletes, two of the four trains carrying them were affected by the outage. SNCF informed that one train was cancelled while authorities were hoping that the other would become operational. (With inputs from agencies)

Paris Olympics: French railway operator declares 'no safety issue', hours after sabotage on rail lines

In a scene straight out of a Bollywood flick, a man who was murdered in the western Indian city of Mumbai on Wednesday (Jul 24) had tattoos of the names of&nbsp;22 persons that could have potentially harmed him, on his body. The police arrested three suspects whose names were found inked on the man, identified as 48-year-old Guru Waghmare.&nbsp;

Waghmare was murdered at Soft Touch Spa in central Mumbai's Worli, according to news wire agency PTI. The victim&nbsp;claimed to be a Right to Information (RTI) activist but was a history-sheeter with several cases pending against him.&nbsp;

The spa owner, Santosh Sherekar was one of the arrested accused after his name was found tattooed on Waghmare's body.&nbsp;According to police, Sherekar was fed up with Waghmare's&nbsp;extortion threats and allegedly hired contract killers to murder him.

Sherekar gave the killing contract to&nbsp;Mohammed Feroze Ansari (26) and also paid him Rs 6 lakh ($7,166). Both Ansari and&nbsp;Sherekar knew each other as the former also ran a spa in the&nbsp;Nallasopara area which was shut down last year, following a raid.&nbsp;Notably, the raid took place following Waghmare's complaint which incensed&nbsp;Ansari.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chandipura-virus-is-killing-children-across-india-heres-all-about-it-743199">Watch | Gravitas: Chandipura Virus is killing children across India. Here's all about it</a>

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Afterwards, Ansari contacted Saqub Ansari in Delhi three months ago and the plan was hatched to eliminate the victim.&nbsp;

Both conducted recce of Waghmare's routine, the places he frequented and the route he took home. After the elaborate song and dance, they planned to murder him at Sherekar's spa.

Notably, on the day of the murder, Waghmare was celebrating his birthday with his 21-year-old girlfriend. CCTV footage captured outside a liquor bar in Sion showed the two assailants tailing Waghmare and later following him into the spa.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/delhi-criminal-escapes-police-by-selling-chhole-bhature-for-twenty-years-724192">Also read |&nbsp;Delhi murder accused hid in plain sight, dodging police for 20 years as 'Chhole Bhature' seller</a>

Both entered the spa late at night, took Waghmare's girlfriend to another room and murdered him using the separated blades of a pair of scissors costing Rs 7,000 ($83). While one slit the throat of Waghmare, the other stabbed him in the stomach.&nbsp;

Police initially detained Sherekar and subsequently arrested Ansari from Nallasopara. His aide, Saquib, was arrested from Kota in Rajasthan while he was returning to New Delhi, along with two others.&nbsp;

The police are interrogating them all, including Waghmare's girlfriend whose role in the murder is also under suspicion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a scene straight out of a Bollywood flick, a man who was murdered in the western Indian city of Mumbai on Wednesday (Jul 24) had tattoos of the names of 22 persons that could have potentially harmed him, on his body.

In a scene straight out of a Bollywood flick, a man who was murdered in the western Indian city of Mumbai on Wednesday (Jul 24) had tattoos of the names of 22 persons that could have potentially harmed him, on his body. The police arrested three suspects whose names were found inked on the man, identified as 48-year-old Guru Waghmare. Waghmare was murdered at Soft Touch Spa in central Mumbai's Worli, according to news wire agency PTI. The victim claimed to be a Right to Information (RTI) activist but was a history-sheeter with several cases pending against him. The spa owner, Santosh Sherekar was one of the arrested accused after his name was found tattooed on Waghmare's body. According to police, Sherekar was fed up with Waghmare's extortion threats and allegedly hired contract killers to murder him. Sherekar gave the killing contract to Mohammed Feroze Ansari (26) and also paid him Rs 6 lakh ($7,166). Both Ansari and Sherekar knew each other as the former also ran a spa in the Nallasopara area which was shut down last year, following a raid. Notably, the raid took place following Waghmare's complaint which incensed Ansari. Watch | Gravitas: Chandipura Virus is killing children across India. Here's all about it × Afterwards, Ansari contacted Saqub Ansari in Delhi three months ago and the plan was hatched to eliminate the victim. Both conducted recce of Waghmare's routine, the places he frequented and the route he took home. After the elaborate song and dance, they planned to murder him at Sherekar's spa. Notably, on the day of the murder, Waghmare was celebrating his birthday with his 21-year-old girlfriend. CCTV footage captured outside a liquor bar in Sion showed the two assailants tailing Waghmare and later following him into the spa. Also read | Delhi murder accused hid in plain sight, dodging police for 20 years as 'Chhole Bhature' seller Both entered the spa late at night, took Waghmare's girlfriend to another room and murdered him using the separated blades of a pair of scissors costing Rs 7,000 ($83). While one slit the throat of Waghmare, the other stabbed him in the stomach. Police initially detained Sherekar and subsequently arrested Ansari from Nallasopara. His aide, Saquib, was arrested from Kota in Rajasthan while he was returning to New Delhi, along with two others. The police are interrogating them all, including Waghmare's girlfriend whose role in the murder is also under suspicion. (With inputs from agencies)

Murdered Mumbai man tattooed names of enemies on body, helping police arrest suspects

The Saint Hilarion complex, one of the oldest monasteries in the Middle East, has been put on the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites in danger due to the war in Gaza, the body said Friday (Jul 26).

The Saint Hilarion complex, one of the oldest monasteries in the Middle East, has been put on the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites in danger due to the war in Gaza, the body said Friday (Jul 26). UNESCO said the site, which dates back to the fourth century, had been put on the endangered list at the demand of Palestinian authorities and cited the "imminent threats" it faced. "It's the only recourse to protect the site from destruction in the current context," Lazare Eloundou Assomo, director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, told news agency AFP, referring to the war sparked by Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel. In December, the UNESCO Committee for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict decided to grant "provisional enhanced protection" -- the highest level of immunity established by the 1954 Hague Convention -- to the site. Watch | Climate related displacement causes education loss, drop-outs latest UNESCO report reveals × UNESCO had then said it was "already concerned about the state of conservation of sites, before October 7, due to the lack of adequate policies to protect heritage and culture" in Gaza. The Hamas attack on October 7 resulted in the deaths of 1,197 people in Israel, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israel's retaliatory offensive against Hamas has killed at least 39,175 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry, which does not give details of civilian and militant deaths. 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.

Ancient Gaza monastery put on UNESCO endangered site list due to Israel-Hamas war

Donald Trump has slammed the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray after the latter raised doubts about whether the former United States president was hit by a bullet during the assassination attempt, earlier this month.&nbsp;

Trump took to his Truth Social account and posted a lengthy message where he took shots at Wray as well as President Joe Biden over his deteriorating cognitive abilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“FBI Director Christopher Wray told Congress yesterday that he wasn’t sure if I was hit by shrapnel, glass, or a bullet (the FBI never even checked!), but he was sure that Crooked Joe Biden was physically and cognitively ‘uneventful’ – Wrong!” Trump wrote on the social media platform.&nbsp;

The former president&nbsp;claims he was hit by a bullet that grazed the upper portion of his right ear after he moved his head just in time to avoid getting shot in the head.

"No, it was, unfortunately, a bullet that hit my ear, and hit it hard. There was no glass, there was no shrapnel. The hospital called it a 'bullet wound to the ear,'&nbsp;and that is what it was. No wonder the once storied FBI has lost the confidence of America!"&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secret-service-director-grilled-by-lawmakers-on-trump-assassination-attempt-743179" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;US Secret Service director grilled by lawmakers on Trump assassination attempt</a>

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<h2>What did Wray claim?</h2>

The FBI director raised suspicions over the validity of Trump's claims during the testimony in front of the House Oversight Committee on Wednesday (Jul 24).&nbsp;

"With respect to former president Trump, there’s some question about whether it was a bullet or shrapnel that hit his ear," Wray told Representative&nbsp;Jim Jordan during the testimony.&nbsp;

“As I sit here right now, I don’t know whether that bullet… in addition to causing the grazing, could have landed somewhere else," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-fbi-director-wray-demands-resignation-over-biden-health-cover-up-744206">Also read |&nbsp;Trump goes after FBI Director Wray, demands his resignation over Biden health cover-up</a>

Notably, 20-year-old gunman, Thomas Crooks, had fired a volley of eight rounds towards the former US president using an AR-15 rifle while he was addressing the rally in an open field.

It was only after one of the bullets grazed Trump and killed a rallygoer that the Secret Service was able to neutralise Crooks.&nbsp;

The FBI chief&nbsp;said his team had accounted for all the shots in the cartridges, including the ones that killed a rallygoer and wounded two others. Wray highlighted that Crooks' gun had a collapsible stock that made it easy to hide the gun.

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump has slammed the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray after the latter raised doubts about whether the former United States president was hit by a bullet during the assassination attempt, earlier this month.

Donald Trump has slammed the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray after the latter raised doubts about whether the former United States president was hit by a bullet during the assassination attempt, earlier this month. Trump took to his Truth Social account and posted a lengthy message where he took shots at Wray as well as President Joe Biden over his deteriorating cognitive abilities. “FBI Director Christopher Wray told Congress yesterday that he wasn’t sure if I was hit by shrapnel, glass, or a bullet (the FBI never even checked!), but he was sure that Crooked Joe Biden was physically and cognitively ‘uneventful’ – Wrong!” Trump wrote on the social media platform. The former president claims he was hit by a bullet that grazed the upper portion of his right ear after he moved his head just in time to avoid getting shot in the head. "No, it was, unfortunately, a bullet that hit my ear, and hit it hard. There was no glass, there was no shrapnel. The hospital called it a 'bullet wound to the ear,' and that is what it was. No wonder the once storied FBI has lost the confidence of America!" × Watch | US Secret Service director grilled by lawmakers on Trump assassination attempt What did Wray claim? The FBI director raised suspicions over the validity of Trump's claims during the testimony in front of the House Oversight Committee on Wednesday (Jul 24). "With respect to former president Trump, there’s some question about whether it was a bullet or shrapnel that hit his ear," Wray told Representative Jim Jordan during the testimony. “As I sit here right now, I don’t know whether that bullet… in addition to causing the grazing, could have landed somewhere else," he added. Also read | Trump goes after FBI Director Wray, demands his resignation over Biden health cover-up Notably, 20-year-old gunman, Thomas Crooks, had fired a volley of eight rounds towards the former US president using an AR-15 rifle while he was addressing the rally in an open field. It was only after one of the bullets grazed Trump and killed a rallygoer that the Secret Service was able to neutralise Crooks. The FBI chief said his team had accounted for all the shots in the cartridges, including the ones that killed a rallygoer and wounded two others. Wray highlighted that Crooks' gun had a collapsible stock that made it easy to hide the gun. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump blasts FBI director for questioning if he was struck by bullet during assassination bid

Elon Musk threw down the gauntlet and challenged the Meta CEO to a cage match last year. Zuckerberg accepted the challenge, but the epic showdown never happened. Now, more than a year later, Musk said that he’s again open to fighting - this time on Zuckerberg’s terms. Elon Musk said he will fight Zuckerberg “any place, any time, any rules.” Watch in for more details!

Elon Musk says will fight Zuckerberg “any place, any time, any rules” | WION Originals

US economic growth blew past expectations in the second quarter, boosted by consumer spending and inventory building despite high interest rates,&nbsp;government data showed Thursday, after a slow start to the year.

The world's biggest economy grew 2.8 per cent in the April to June period, up from 1.4 per cent in the first three months this year, said the Commerce Department.

The figure was markedly above the 1.9 per cent rate economists anticipated -- a reassuring sign that consumption remains resilient.

Watch |&nbsp;US expected to surpass China in economic growth by 2031

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The acceleration "primarily reflected an upturn in private inventory investment and an acceleration in consumer spending," said the Commerce Department.

This was "partly offset by a downturn in residential fixed investment," it added.

While sectors like manufacturing and housing have been struggling after the Federal Reserve rapidly hiked interest rates in 2022 to combat surging inflation, consumption has been stronger than analysts expected.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-economy-slows-amid-import-surge-inflation-accelerates-715182">Also read |&nbsp;US economy slows amid import surge; inflation accelerates</a>

This gave the economy a boost despite rates hovering at their highest levels in more than two decades, making borrowing more expensive for individuals and companies.

A key factor underpinning consumption has been the robust labour market, which saw continued wage growth and businesses reluctant to let go of workers after difficulties in hiring during the pandemic.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US economic growth blew past expectations in the second quarter, boosted by consumer spending and inventory building despite high interest rates, government data showed Thursday, after a slow start to the year.

US economic growth blew past expectations in the second quarter, boosted by consumer spending and inventory building despite high interest rates, government data showed Thursday, after a slow start to the year. The world's biggest economy grew 2.8 per cent in the April to June period, up from 1.4 per cent in the first three months this year, said the Commerce Department. The figure was markedly above the 1.9 per cent rate economists anticipated -- a reassuring sign that consumption remains resilient. Watch | US expected to surpass China in economic growth by 2031 × The acceleration "primarily reflected an upturn in private inventory investment and an acceleration in consumer spending," said the Commerce Department. This was "partly offset by a downturn in residential fixed investment," it added. While sectors like manufacturing and housing have been struggling after the Federal Reserve rapidly hiked interest rates in 2022 to combat surging inflation, consumption has been stronger than analysts expected. Also read | US economy slows amid import surge; inflation accelerates This gave the economy a boost despite rates hovering at their highest levels in more than two decades, making borrowing more expensive for individuals and companies. A key factor underpinning consumption has been the robust labour market, which saw continued wage growth and businesses reluctant to let go of workers after difficulties in hiring during the pandemic. 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.

Beating expectations, US economy grew at 2.8% in latest quarter

Israeli forces have retrieved the bodies of five individuals who were taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel. The military confirmed on Thursday (Jul&nbsp;25) that the remains of Maya Goren and soldiers Ravid Aryeh Katz, Oren Goldin, Tomer Ahimas, and Kiril Brodski have been returned to Israel.

<h2>How were the hostage bodies recovered?</h2>

The bodies were recovered during an operation in Khan Yunis, a key city in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday (Jul 24), said the Israeli military.

As per the news agency AFP, the four soldiers were killed during the attack by Hamas militants, which led to significant casualties and hostages being taken.

In December, the military had previously announced the death of Maya Goren, who had been abducted on October 7.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-tells-joint-session-of-us-congress-israel-will-win-gaza-war-743902">Netanyahu tells joint session of US Congress Israel 'will win' Gaza war</a>

The recovery of her body was confirmed by kibbutz Nir Oz, who said that her family had been informed.&nbsp;

In a separate statement, kibbutz Nir Yitzhak also confirmed the return of Oren Goldin's body.

"This evening, we were informed about the rescue operation for the late Oren Goldin, a member of the kibbutz emergency team, who fell on October 7".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-talks-to-america-in-his-last-oval-office-address-743917">Joe Biden's Oval Office address: Endorses Kamala Harris, tells Americans 'Republic is in your hands'</a>

The attack on October 7 resulted in the deaths of 1,197 people, predominantly civilians, and the seizure of 251 hostages. Of those, 111 remain in Gaza, with the military reporting that 39 of these hostages are deceased.

Israel's military response in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting at least 39,145 deaths, mostly civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli forces have retrieved the bodies of five individuals who were taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel. The military confirmed on Thursday (Jul 25) that the remains of Maya Goren and soldiers Ravid Aryeh Katz, Oren Goldin, Tomer Ahimas, and Kiril Brodski have been returned to Israel.

Israeli forces have retrieved the bodies of five individuals who were taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel. The military confirmed on Thursday (Jul 25) that the remains of Maya Goren and soldiers Ravid Aryeh Katz, Oren Goldin, Tomer Ahimas, and Kiril Brodski have been returned to Israel. How were the hostage bodies recovered? The bodies were recovered during an operation in Khan Yunis, a key city in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday (Jul 24), said the Israeli military. As per the news agency AFP, the four soldiers were killed during the attack by Hamas militants, which led to significant casualties and hostages being taken. In December, the military had previously announced the death of Maya Goren, who had been abducted on October 7. Also read | Netanyahu tells joint session of US Congress Israel 'will win' Gaza war The recovery of her body was confirmed by kibbutz Nir Oz, who said that her family had been informed. In a separate statement, kibbutz Nir Yitzhak also confirmed the return of Oren Goldin's body. "This evening, we were informed about the rescue operation for the late Oren Goldin, a member of the kibbutz emergency team, who fell on October 7". Also read | Joe Biden's Oval Office address: Endorses Kamala Harris, tells Americans 'Republic is in your hands' The attack on October 7 resulted in the deaths of 1,197 people, predominantly civilians, and the seizure of 251 hostages. Of those, 111 remain in Gaza, with the military reporting that 39 of these hostages are deceased. Israel's military response in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting at least 39,145 deaths, mostly civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel recovers bodies of five hostages taken by Hamas during Oct 7 attack

US Vice President Kamala Harris kicked off her presidential campaign with a rally where she slammed her Republican rival Donald Trump. Meanwhile,&nbsp;following an assassination attempt, Donald Trump plans to cease outdoor rallies, such as the one in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he was shot. This comes as&nbsp;US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has stepped down amidst calls for her resignation.

In other news, North Korea escalated its&nbsp;efforts against South Korea by sending trash-carrying balloons that hit the Seoul presidential compound.

Finally, French police have arrested a Russian man suspected of plotting destabilisation activities during the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Click on the headlines for more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-slams-trump-at-her-first-presidential-rally-743610">Kamala Harris slams Trump at her first presidential campaign rally</a>

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US Vice President Kamala Harris launched her White House campaign's first rally by attacking Donald Trump, framing the upcoming November election as a choice between a former prosecutor and a convicted felon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-ups-the-ante-trash-carrying-balloons-hit-south-korean-presidential-compound-743623">North Korea ups the ante, trash-carrying balloons hit South Korean presidential compound</a>

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North Korea on Wednesday (July 24) escalated its propaganda war by sending trash-carrying balloons that struck a high-profile target: the South Korean presidential compound.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-halt-outdoor-rallies-following-assassination-attempt-743641">Trump to halt outdoor rallies following assassination attempt</a>

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Former President Donald Trump plans to stop holding outdoor rallies, such as the one in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he was shot during an assassination attempt this month, according to two sources familiar with his campaign's operations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-2024-russian-arrested-over-destabilisation-plot-in-french-capital-743621">Paris Olympics 2024: Russian arrested over 'destabilisation' plot in French capital</a>

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French police on Tuesday arrested a Russian man suspected of plotting acts of "destabilisation" during the Paris Olympics, prosecutors said.

Watch |&nbsp;US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle steps down amid calls to resign

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US Vice President Kamala Harris kicked off her presidential campaign with a rally where she slammed her Republican rival Donald Trump. Meanwhile, following an assassination attempt, Donald Trump plans to cease outdoor rallies, such as the one in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he was shot.

US Vice President Kamala Harris kicked off her presidential campaign with a rally where she slammed her Republican rival Donald Trump. Meanwhile, following an assassination attempt, Donald Trump plans to cease outdoor rallies, such as the one in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he was shot. This comes as US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has stepped down amidst calls for her resignation. In other news, North Korea escalated its efforts against South Korea by sending trash-carrying balloons that hit the Seoul presidential compound. Finally, French police have arrested a Russian man suspected of plotting destabilisation activities during the upcoming Paris Olympics. Click on the headlines for more Kamala Harris slams Trump at her first presidential campaign rally US Vice President Kamala Harris launched her White House campaign's first rally by attacking Donald Trump, framing the upcoming November election as a choice between a former prosecutor and a convicted felon. North Korea ups the ante, trash-carrying balloons hit South Korean presidential compound North Korea on Wednesday (July 24) escalated its propaganda war by sending trash-carrying balloons that struck a high-profile target: the South Korean presidential compound. Trump to halt outdoor rallies following assassination attempt Former President Donald Trump plans to stop holding outdoor rallies, such as the one in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he was shot during an assassination attempt this month, according to two sources familiar with his campaign's operations. Paris Olympics 2024: Russian arrested over 'destabilisation' plot in French capital French police on Tuesday arrested a Russian man suspected of plotting acts of "destabilisation" during the Paris Olympics, prosecutors said. Watch | US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle steps down amid calls to resign

Morning brief: Kamala Harris slams Trump; N Korea trash balloons hit S Korea presidential palace, and more

Experts in child safety claim Apple is not doing enough to check for pictures and videos of child sexual abuse on its platforms. This raises worries about how Apple will manage more of this harmful content as artificial intelligence grows.

UK experts claim Apple failing to monitor child abuse material on its platform

Minutes after quitting the presidential race, US President Joe Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democrat nominee for the November elections.&nbsp;

"My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term," wrote Biden on X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;

"My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this," he added.

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My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best… <a href="https://t.co/x8DnvuImJV">pic.twitter.com/x8DnvuImJV</a>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1815087772216303933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-withdraws-from-presidential-race-amid-pressure-from-allies-742885">Also read |&nbsp;Joe Biden finally bows to pressure, withdraws from US presidential race</a>

<h2>What happens now?</h2>

Democrats now have to choose a new nominee.&nbsp;Their Democratic convention is in Chicago Monday, 19 August, through Thursday, 22 August.

Biden has already endorsed Kamala Harris - meaning, she leads the race and in all likelihood, will be&nbsp;approved at the convention. Consequently, she would&nbsp;become the first US presidential candidate of Indian origin. After that, if she wins the November election, she will become the first woman and Indian origin president of the US.

Harris's name had been doing the rounds to replace Biden ever since the first presidential debate took place last month. Biden could not hold his own in the debate as he stumbled, stuttered and zoned out multiple times.&nbsp;

Post the debate, the chorus grew within the Democrats and top leaders started openly asking Biden to drop out of the race.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crooked-joe-biden-wasnt-trump-reacts-after-biden-drops-out-of-the-presidential-race-742902">Also read |&nbsp;'Crooked Joe Biden wasn't...': Trump reacts after Biden drops out of the presidential race</a>

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi held a private conversation with Biden and conveyed that he would not be able to defeat Trump, come November. Similarly, former president Barack Obama,&nbsp;who steadfastly supported Biden during his term, has&nbsp;also now told allies that Biden needed to reconsider his re-election bid.&nbsp;

Obama was of the view that there was no path to victory for the 81-year-old who should "seriously consider the viability of his candidacy".

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Minutes after quitting the presidential race, US President Joe Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democrat nominee for the November elections.

Minutes after quitting the presidential race, US President Joe Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democrat nominee for the November elections. "My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term," wrote Biden on X, formerly Twitter. "My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this," he added. My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best… pic.twitter.com/x8DnvuImJV — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) July 21, 2024 × Also read | Joe Biden finally bows to pressure, withdraws from US presidential race What happens now? Democrats now have to choose a new nominee. Their Democratic convention is in Chicago Monday, 19 August, through Thursday, 22 August. Biden has already endorsed Kamala Harris - meaning, she leads the race and in all likelihood, will be approved at the convention. Consequently, she would become the first US presidential candidate of Indian origin. After that, if she wins the November election, she will become the first woman and Indian origin president of the US. Harris's name had been doing the rounds to replace Biden ever since the first presidential debate took place last month. Biden could not hold his own in the debate as he stumbled, stuttered and zoned out multiple times. Post the debate, the chorus grew within the Democrats and top leaders started openly asking Biden to drop out of the race. Also read | 'Crooked Joe Biden wasn't...': Trump reacts after Biden drops out of the presidential race Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi held a private conversation with Biden and conveyed that he would not be able to defeat Trump, come November. Similarly, former president Barack Obama, who steadfastly supported Biden during his term, has also now told allies that Biden needed to reconsider his re-election bid. Obama was of the view that there was no path to victory for the 81-year-old who should "seriously consider the viability of his candidacy". (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden endorses Kamala Harris as Democrat presidential nominee

US President Joe Biden has withdrawn from the presidential race, a move unprecedented in US presidential election history. His decision follows growing concerns about his age and mental fitness.

Meanwhile, in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri, a major terror attack on an Indian Army picket was successfully thwarted.

In Pennsylvania, Bethel Park High School has denied claims of bullying in the past of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump.

The UAE has ordered an investigation and expedited trial for Bangladeshi nationals arrested for protesting against their government.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines for more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-steps-down-joe-biden-exiting-the-race-now-lacks-precedent-in-us-presidential-elections-history-742938">Biden steps down: Joe Biden exiting the race now lacks precedent in US presidential elections history</a>

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US President Joe Biden pulled out of the presidential race at the very last minute amid calls by several Democrats to exit. People kept pointing out how he was too old to lead the country for another four years, with a few saying he might not be mentally fit as well.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/major-terror-attack-on-indian-army-picket-in-jks-rajouri-thwarted-742947">Major terror attack on Indian Army picket thwarted in J&amp;K's Rajouri</a>

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&nbsp;

A major terror attack on an Army picket in a remote village in Rajouri has been thwarted, the news agency ANI reported on Monday (July 22) citing the Directorate of Public Relations Jammu

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pennsylvania-high-school-refutes-claims-of-bullying-in-attempted-trump-assassins-past-742930">Pennsylvania high school refutes claims of bullying in Trump's almost assassin Thomas Crooks' past</a>

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Thomas Matthew Crooks' alma mater, the Bethel Park High School, has denied allegations that the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump was relentlessly bullied. It also refuted to confirm that Crooks was rejected from the school's rifle team due to poor aim.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-orders-trial-of-bangladeshi-nationals-arrested-for-protesting-against-dhaka-742941">UAE orders trial of Bangladeshi nationals arrested for protesting against Dhaka</a>

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE)&nbsp;ordered an investigation and an expedited trial of Bangladeshi nationals arrested for protesting against their home government, state media reported on Sunday (July 21).&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US Elections: Democratic delegates to make a historic decision

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US President Joe Biden has withdrawn from the presidential race, a move unprecedented in US presidential election history. His decision follows growing concerns about his age and mental fitness.

US President Joe Biden has withdrawn from the presidential race, a move unprecedented in US presidential election history. His decision follows growing concerns about his age and mental fitness. Meanwhile, in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri, a major terror attack on an Indian Army picket was successfully thwarted. In Pennsylvania, Bethel Park High School has denied claims of bullying in the past of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump. The UAE has ordered an investigation and expedited trial for Bangladeshi nationals arrested for protesting against their government. Click on the headlines for more Biden steps down: Joe Biden exiting the race now lacks precedent in US presidential elections history US President Joe Biden pulled out of the presidential race at the very last minute amid calls by several Democrats to exit. People kept pointing out how he was too old to lead the country for another four years, with a few saying he might not be mentally fit as well. Major terror attack on Indian Army picket thwarted in J&K's Rajouri A major terror attack on an Army picket in a remote village in Rajouri has been thwarted, the news agency ANI reported on Monday (July 22) citing the Directorate of Public Relations Jammu Pennsylvania high school refutes claims of bullying in Trump's almost assassin Thomas Crooks' past Thomas Matthew Crooks' alma mater, the Bethel Park High School, has denied allegations that the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump was relentlessly bullied. It also refuted to confirm that Crooks was rejected from the school's rifle team due to poor aim. UAE orders trial of Bangladeshi nationals arrested for protesting against Dhaka The United Arab Emirates (UAE) ordered an investigation and an expedited trial of Bangladeshi nationals arrested for protesting against their home government, state media reported on Sunday (July 21). Watch | US Elections: Democratic delegates to make a historic decision

Morning news brief: Biden's exit from election race; major attack on Indian Army in J&K thwarted, and more

Two women in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh were nearly killed after a truck driver attempted to bury them under a massive load of gravel on Saturday (Jul 20). The attack took place in a small village called Hinauta in the Rewa district of the state with the horrific video of the incident going viral on social media.&nbsp;

The women,&nbsp;Mamta Pandey and Asha, were protesting against road construction in the area, which they said was coming up on their leased land. As they protested, the situation escalated.&nbsp;

The driver of the dumper truck, Vipin Pandey, acting on the behest of a local strongman, arrived with gravel and dumped it all on the two women who were nearly buried under it.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: The below media might be harrowing for some. Please proceed at your own caution.

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⚠️ ये भयावह वीडियो आपकी रूह कंपा देगा, 
 
लेकिन मध्यप्रदेश की भाजपा सरकार, राष्ट्रीय महिला आयोग, प्रधानमंत्री, गृहमंत्री, महिला बाल विकास मंत्री इत्यादि की चुप्पी भी नही तुड़वा सकता। 
 
रीवा में दो महिलाओं को निजी जमीन पर सड़क बनाने का विरोध करने पर दबंगों ने जिंदा जमीन में गाड़ा.. <a href="https://t.co/a7AZujcwmU">pic.twitter.com/a7AZujcwmU</a>
— Srinivas BV (@srinivasiyc) <a href="https://twitter.com/srinivasiyc/status/1814992979062321291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After the incident, the villagers could be seen rushing to the spot and using primitive tools to remove the gravel and free up the two women. They both were taken to the&nbsp;Community Health Centre in Gangev, from where they were discharged after some time.&nbsp;

According to the police, it was a family land dispute between the two sides. A case under attempt to murder has been lodged and Pandey arrested, while two others have been made accused. The dumper used in the incident has also been seized by the authorities.&nbsp;

"The women were protesting, and the dumper overturned the gravel, burying them. Both parties have a dispute over family land," said Additional Superintendent of Police Vivek Lal.

"First, there was a physical altercation, and then the gravel was thrown on Mamta and Asha Pandey," he added.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Rewa, Madhya Pradesh: On the Rewa incident, SP Rewa Vivek Singh says, "The incident took place yesterday... It is a family land dispute between two sides... One side wanted to make a road and they were spreading pebbles for it. Two women came under the pebbles when they… <a href="https://t.co/WajuQSNtmv">pic.twitter.com/WajuQSNtmv</a>
— ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_MP_CG_RJ/status/1815036339747996151?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Congress, the opposition party in the state, lashed out at the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government over its silence on the matter.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Two women in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh were nearly killed after a truck driver attempted to bury them under a massive load of gravel on Saturday (Jul 20).

Two women in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh were nearly killed after a truck driver attempted to bury them under a massive load of gravel on Saturday (Jul 20). The attack took place in a small village called Hinauta in the Rewa district of the state with the horrific video of the incident going viral on social media. The women, Mamta Pandey and Asha, were protesting against road construction in the area, which they said was coming up on their leased land. As they protested, the situation escalated. The driver of the dumper truck, Vipin Pandey, acting on the behest of a local strongman, arrived with gravel and dumped it all on the two women who were nearly buried under it. Disclaimer: The below media might be harrowing for some. Please proceed at your own caution. ⚠️ ये भयावह वीडियो आपकी रूह कंपा देगा, लेकिन मध्यप्रदेश की भाजपा सरकार, राष्ट्रीय महिला आयोग, प्रधानमंत्री, गृहमंत्री, महिला बाल विकास मंत्री इत्यादि की चुप्पी भी नही तुड़वा सकता। रीवा में दो महिलाओं को निजी जमीन पर सड़क बनाने का विरोध करने पर दबंगों ने जिंदा जमीन में गाड़ा.. pic.twitter.com/a7AZujcwmU — Srinivas BV (@srinivasiyc) July 21, 2024 × After the incident, the villagers could be seen rushing to the spot and using primitive tools to remove the gravel and free up the two women. They both were taken to the Community Health Centre in Gangev, from where they were discharged after some time. According to the police, it was a family land dispute between the two sides. A case under attempt to murder has been lodged and Pandey arrested, while two others have been made accused. The dumper used in the incident has also been seized by the authorities. "The women were protesting, and the dumper overturned the gravel, burying them. Both parties have a dispute over family land," said Additional Superintendent of Police Vivek Lal. "First, there was a physical altercation, and then the gravel was thrown on Mamta and Asha Pandey," he added. #WATCH | Rewa, Madhya Pradesh: On the Rewa incident, SP Rewa Vivek Singh says, "The incident took place yesterday... It is a family land dispute between two sides... One side wanted to make a road and they were spreading pebbles for it. Two women came under the pebbles when they… pic.twitter.com/WajuQSNtmv — ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) July 21, 2024 × Congress, the opposition party in the state, lashed out at the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government over its silence on the matter. (With inputs from agencies)

Truck driver nearly buries two women alive under gravel in India’s Madhya Pradesh | Video

US Secret Service (USSS) denied requests for additional resources and manpower to protect former president Donald Trump, a damning report in the Washington Post has&nbsp;claimed. After initially denying such claims in the immediate aftermath of the&nbsp;July 13 assassination attempt, USSS has now admitted that certain requesters by Trump's team were turned down in the last two years.&nbsp;

The ex-president's team had requested for more agents and magnetometers at&nbsp;large public events he attended, as well as extra snipers for outdoor venues.&nbsp;

The repeated rejections led to long-standing tensions between Trump, his top aides and his security detail against Secret Service leadership, the report added.&nbsp;

Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the Secret Service admitted that new information had surfaced indicating that the agency's headquarters may have in fact denied requests for additional security from Trump's detail.&nbsp;

“The Secret Service has a vast, challenging, and intricate mission. Every day we work in a dynamic threat environment to ensure our protectees are safe and secure across multiple events, travel, and other difficult environments," said&nbsp;Guglielmi.&nbsp;

"We execute a comprehensive and layered strategy to balance personnel, technology, and specialised operational needs."

Also watch |&nbsp;Division in our society must be healed: Trump in first speech after he survived assassination

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<h2>Secret Service's previous version</h2>

Notably, quizzed after the assassination bid on Trump, Guglielmi had outrightly quashed the reports of denying security to the Republican leader.&nbsp;

“The assertion that a member of the former president’s security team requested additional security resources that the US Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security rebuffed is absolutely false,” he said at the time.

Secret Service chief&nbsp;Kimberly Cheatle is under pressure from all quarters to tender her resignation for failing to protect Trump.&nbsp;Cheatle, however, has refused to step down but will testify before the House Oversight Committee on Monday (Jul 22) regarding the failures.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-assassination-attempt-secret-service-sniper-killed-shooter-with-one-in-a-million-shot-report-742589">Also read |&nbsp;Trump assassination attempt | Secret Service sniper killed shooter with 'one-in-a-million shot': Report</a>

Thomas Crooks, the shooter who took aim at Trump was merely 130 metres away from the former president and managed to compose himself on the roof of the building without any fuss.

The Secret Service agents did not spot him till he had fired multiple rounds and only neutralised him after&nbsp;Trump suffered a bullet wound on his right ear while a rallygoer was killed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US Secret Service (USSS) denied requests for additional resources and manpower to protect former president Donald Trump, a damning report in the Washington Post has claimed.

US Secret Service (USSS) denied requests for additional resources and manpower to protect former president Donald Trump, a damning report in the Washington Post has claimed. After initially denying such claims in the immediate aftermath of the July 13 assassination attempt, USSS has now admitted that certain requesters by Trump's team were turned down in the last two years. The ex-president's team had requested for more agents and magnetometers at large public events he attended, as well as extra snipers for outdoor venues. The repeated rejections led to long-standing tensions between Trump, his top aides and his security detail against Secret Service leadership, the report added. Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the Secret Service admitted that new information had surfaced indicating that the agency's headquarters may have in fact denied requests for additional security from Trump's detail. “The Secret Service has a vast, challenging, and intricate mission. Every day we work in a dynamic threat environment to ensure our protectees are safe and secure across multiple events, travel, and other difficult environments," said Guglielmi. "We execute a comprehensive and layered strategy to balance personnel, technology, and specialised operational needs." Also watch | Division in our society must be healed: Trump in first speech after he survived assassination Secret Service's previous version Notably, quizzed after the assassination bid on Trump, Guglielmi had outrightly quashed the reports of denying security to the Republican leader. “The assertion that a member of the former president’s security team requested additional security resources that the US Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security rebuffed is absolutely false,” he said at the time. Secret Service chief Kimberly Cheatle is under pressure from all quarters to tender her resignation for failing to protect Trump. Cheatle, however, has refused to step down but will testify before the House Oversight Committee on Monday (Jul 22) regarding the failures. Also read | Trump assassination attempt | Secret Service sniper killed shooter with 'one-in-a-million shot': Report Thomas Crooks, the shooter who took aim at Trump was merely 130 metres away from the former president and managed to compose himself on the roof of the building without any fuss. The Secret Service agents did not spot him till he had fired multiple rounds and only neutralised him after Trump suffered a bullet wound on his right ear while a rallygoer was killed. (With inputs from agencies)

US Secret Service admits denying 'extra' security to Trump that led to assassination bid

Trump Organization's former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Allen Weisselberg was released from New York City’s Rikers Island jail on Friday (Jul 19) after serving a sentence for lying under oath, the prison correctional officials confirmed.&nbsp;

Weisselberg served 100 days behind bars for lying during an investigation into the former United States president's real estate business.&nbsp;

“Allen Weisselberg accepted responsibility for his conduct and now looks forward to the end of this life-altering experience and to returning to his family and his retirement,” his attorney, Seth Rosenberg, said.&nbsp;

Rosenberg added that Weisselberg had been released from custody and “reunited with his family".&nbsp;

<h2>Weisselberg's lies</h2>

In&nbsp;October last year, the former Trump Organization&nbsp;CFO&nbsp;on the witness stand said that he was not involved in an incorrect valuation of Trump's Manhattan penthouse. However, Forbes later published a report accusing Weisselberg of lying on the stand.&nbsp;

Trump's 2015 and 2016 financial statements valued the former president's Manhattan townhouse at $327 million based on its stated size of more than 30,000 square feet, nearly three times the actual size.

The civil fraud case culminated in a $454 million penalty imposed on the former president. The judge also imposed a fine worth $1.1 million, including interest, on the former executive.&nbsp;He was also barred for three years from serving in top leadership positions in any New York corporation or business entity.

In March this year,&nbsp;Weisselberg&nbsp;pleaded guilty to two perjury counts at a&nbsp;hearing before Judge Laurie Peterson in a Manhattan criminal court.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-longtime-cfo-allen-weisselberg-sentenced-on-charges-of-fraud-tax-invasion-551426">Watch |&nbsp;Trump's longtime CFO Allen Weisselberg sentenced on charges of fraud, tax invasion</a>

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In return for pleading guilty, prosecutors agreed not to prosecute him for any other crimes he might have committed in connection with his longtime employment at&nbsp;the Trump Organization.

Notably, the 76-year-old had also served another 100 days sentence in jail last year after pleading guilty to dodging taxes on $1.7 million in off-the-books compensation from the Trump Organization.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Trump Organization's former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Allen Weisselberg was released from New York City’s Rikers Island jail on Friday (Jul 19) after serving a sentence for lying under oath, the prison correctional officials confirmed.

Trump Organization's former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Allen Weisselberg was released from New York City’s Rikers Island jail on Friday (Jul 19) after serving a sentence for lying under oath, the prison correctional officials confirmed. Weisselberg served 100 days behind bars for lying during an investigation into the former United States president's real estate business. “Allen Weisselberg accepted responsibility for his conduct and now looks forward to the end of this life-altering experience and to returning to his family and his retirement,” his attorney, Seth Rosenberg, said. Rosenberg added that Weisselberg had been released from custody and “reunited with his family". Weisselberg's lies In October last year, the former Trump Organization CFO on the witness stand said that he was not involved in an incorrect valuation of Trump's Manhattan penthouse. However, Forbes later published a report accusing Weisselberg of lying on the stand. Trump's 2015 and 2016 financial statements valued the former president's Manhattan townhouse at $327 million based on its stated size of more than 30,000 square feet, nearly three times the actual size. The civil fraud case culminated in a $454 million penalty imposed on the former president. The judge also imposed a fine worth $1.1 million, including interest, on the former executive. He was also barred for three years from serving in top leadership positions in any New York corporation or business entity. In March this year, Weisselberg pleaded guilty to two perjury counts at a hearing before Judge Laurie Peterson in a Manhattan criminal court. Watch | Trump's longtime CFO Allen Weisselberg sentenced on charges of fraud, tax invasion × In return for pleading guilty, prosecutors agreed not to prosecute him for any other crimes he might have committed in connection with his longtime employment at the Trump Organization. Notably, the 76-year-old had also served another 100 days sentence in jail last year after pleading guilty to dodging taxes on $1.7 million in off-the-books compensation from the Trump Organization. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg released from New York prison after 100 days

A major disruption in Microsoft's cloud services caused widespread flight cancellations and delays. The outage forced several airlines to ground planes and disrupted flight operations. Watch this video for all details.

Microsoft Outage: Worldwide travel disruptions after a cybersecurity update affects IT systems

An Italian court has ordered a journalist to pay $5,466 (5,000 euros) in damages to Prime Minister Giorgia&nbsp;Meloni for mocking her on social media, according to local media reports. The journalist will also have to cough up&nbsp;$1,311&nbsp;for a post in October 2021 making fun of the Italian PM's height.&nbsp;

The journalist, identified as Giulia Cortes, initially shared a doctored photo of Meloni with a portrait of&nbsp;late fascist leader Benito Mussolini in the background.

Meloni, whose far-right Brothers of Italy party was in the opposition at the time,&nbsp;took exception to the pictures posted by Cortes.&nbsp;36-year-old Cortes removed the picture after receiving a request but got into trouble when she insulted Meloni on X (formerly Twitter) by calling her a 'little woman'.&nbsp;

"You don't scare me, Giorgia Meloni. After all, you're only 1.2 metres tall. I can't even see you," wrote&nbsp;Cortes at the time.&nbsp;

Meloni stands anywhere between 1.58 metres and 1.63 metres, as per different media reports.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Italy PM Giorgia Meloni's diplomatic mission to China

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&nbsp;

Cortese's defence team argued that the contested messages were not offensive or defamatory in nature and hoped to reduce the financial penalty. However, the single bench of&nbsp;Valerio Natale&nbsp;established the journalist's responsibility for her actions on social media, leading to the conviction.

Cortese can appeal against the sentence, and Meloni's lawyer said the Prime Minister would donate to charity any damages she eventually receives.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-italian-pm-giorgia-melonis-eye-roll-as-biden-arrives-late-to-nato-summit-goes-viral-740260">Watch | Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's eye-roll as Biden arrives late to NATO summit goes viral</a>

This is not the first instance that an individual has been forced to pay a fine for crossing Meloni. Last year, a court in Rome fined best-selling author Roberto Saviano $1,093 plus legal expenses after he insulted her on television in 2021 over her hardline stance on illegal immigration.

A new report by&nbsp;Reporters Without Borders had relegated Italy five places to 46th in its&nbsp;World Press Freedom Index report, In May, journalists at&nbsp;state broadcaster RAI went on strike to protest against the "suffocating control" over their work by Meloni's government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An Italian court has ordered a journalist to pay $5,466 (5,000 euros) in damages to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for mocking her on social media, according to local media reports.

An Italian court has ordered a journalist to pay $5,466 (5,000 euros) in damages to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for mocking her on social media, according to local media reports. The journalist will also have to cough up $1,311 for a post in October 2021 making fun of the Italian PM's height. The journalist, identified as Giulia Cortes, initially shared a doctored photo of Meloni with a portrait of late fascist leader Benito Mussolini in the background. Meloni, whose far-right Brothers of Italy party was in the opposition at the time, took exception to the pictures posted by Cortes. 36-year-old Cortes removed the picture after receiving a request but got into trouble when she insulted Meloni on X (formerly Twitter) by calling her a 'little woman'. "You don't scare me, Giorgia Meloni. After all, you're only 1.2 metres tall. I can't even see you," wrote Cortes at the time. Meloni stands anywhere between 1.58 metres and 1.63 metres, as per different media reports. Watch | Italy PM Giorgia Meloni's diplomatic mission to China × Cortese's defence team argued that the contested messages were not offensive or defamatory in nature and hoped to reduce the financial penalty. However, the single bench of Valerio Natale established the journalist's responsibility for her actions on social media, leading to the conviction. Cortese can appeal against the sentence, and Meloni's lawyer said the Prime Minister would donate to charity any damages she eventually receives. Watch | Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's eye-roll as Biden arrives late to NATO summit goes viral This is not the first instance that an individual has been forced to pay a fine for crossing Meloni. Last year, a court in Rome fined best-selling author Roberto Saviano $1,093 plus legal expenses after he insulted her on television in 2021 over her hardline stance on illegal immigration. A new report by Reporters Without Borders had relegated Italy five places to 46th in its World Press Freedom Index report, In May, journalists at state broadcaster RAI went on strike to protest against the "suffocating control" over their work by Meloni's government. (With inputs from agencies)

Italian journalist to pay PM Giorgia Meloni $5,500 for mocking her height

A suspected serial killer has been arrested in Kenya following the discovery of several bodies at a quarry. Police said Collins Jumaisi is a 33-year-old man living near the quarry in Mukuru neighbourhood. Watch this video for all details.

Kenyan serial killer kills 42 women including wife & dumps their bodies at a quarry

The suspense over Donald Trump's running mate in U.S. presidential election is over now. Trump selected J.D. Vance, a U.S. senator from Ohio as his running mate. Watch this video to know all about him.

Donald Trump names JD Vance as his 2024 running mate. Who is he?

Donald Trump has officially been named the Republican presidential nominee after securing enough delegate votes at the Republican National Convention, following an attempted assassination at a rally in Pennsylvania.

In other news, four Indian Army soldiers, including a Major, have been killed in a gunfight during an encounter with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district on Monday night (July 15).

Click on the headlines for more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-secures-republican-nomination-after-assassination-attempt-picks-jd-vance-as-running-mate-741204">Former President Donald Trump secures Republican nomination after rally attack</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/15/443692-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=400" />

Donald Trump has officially been named the Republican presidential nominee after securing enough delegate votes at the Republican National Convention, following an attempted assassination at a rally in Pennsylvania.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/4-indian-soldiers-killed-in-gunfight-with-terrorists-in-jks-doda-741193">4 Indian soldiers killed in gunfight with terrorists in J&amp;K’s Doda</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/21/346739-untitled-design-14.png?imwidth=400" />

Four Indian Army soldiers, including a Major, have been killed in gunfight during an encounter with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district on Monday night (July 15).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-makes-first-public-appearance-since-assassination-attempt-741196">Trump makes first public appearance since assassination attempt</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/16/443746-untitled-design-52.png?imwidth=400" />

Two days after an assassination attempt, former President Donald Trump, with a bandage on his ear, arrived at the Republican National Convention alongside his running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance on Monday (July 15).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-will-seek-to-ban-ex-pm-imran-khans-party-pti-741024">Pakistan govt to ban PTI, initiate treason proceedings against Imran Khan</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/15/443634-untitled-design.png?imwidth=400" />

Pakistan's Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting&nbsp;Attaullah Tarar said on Monday (July 15) that the government would ban Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, the political party of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-donald-trump-nominated-republican-nominee-picks-jd-vance-as-vp-741224">US Elections: Donald Trump nominated Republican Nominee, picks JD Vance as VP</a>

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&nbsp;

Donald Trump has officially been named the Republican presidential nominee after securing enough delegate votes at the Republican National Convention, following an attempted assassination at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Donald Trump has officially been named the Republican presidential nominee after securing enough delegate votes at the Republican National Convention, following an attempted assassination at a rally in Pennsylvania. In other news, four Indian Army soldiers, including a Major, have been killed in a gunfight during an encounter with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district on Monday night (July 15). Click on the headlines for more Former President Donald Trump secures Republican nomination after rally attack Donald Trump has officially been named the Republican presidential nominee after securing enough delegate votes at the Republican National Convention, following an attempted assassination at a rally in Pennsylvania. 4 Indian soldiers killed in gunfight with terrorists in J&K’s Doda Four Indian Army soldiers, including a Major, have been killed in gunfight during an encounter with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district on Monday night (July 15). Trump makes first public appearance since assassination attempt Two days after an assassination attempt, former President Donald Trump, with a bandage on his ear, arrived at the Republican National Convention alongside his running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance on Monday (July 15). Pakistan govt to ban PTI, initiate treason proceedings against Imran Khan Pakistan's Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar said on Monday (July 15) that the government would ban Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, the political party of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan. Watch | US Elections: Donald Trump nominated Republican Nominee, picks JD Vance as VP ×

Morning news brief: Donald Trump nominated Republican Nominee; soldiers killed in gunfight in J&K, and more

The US is dealing with the aftermath of an alleged assassination attempt on Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican Party candidate for the 2024 US Elections. The Secret Service is on high alert for the Republican National Convention (RNC), which is slated to commence on Monday (Jul&nbsp;14). Meanwhile, President Joe Biden used the Oval Office for his address.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooting-us-president-biden-uses-oval-office-to-address-americans-was-it-a-subtle-flex-of-power-740907">Trump Shooting | US President Biden uses Oval Office to address Americans: Was it a subtle flex of power?</a>

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US President Joe Biden on Sunday (Jul&nbsp;14) used the formal setting of the White House Oval Office to ask Americans to cool down after the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Biden's use of the Oval Office, for only the third time in his term, holds significance, especially as Republicans openly blame him for the attack on the ex-president.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-credits-border-patrol-chart-for-saving-his-life-from-assassination-attempt-740870">Ex-president Donald Trump credits 'border patrol chart' for saving his life</a>

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Former US president Donald Trump has credited an immigration chart for saving his life after an assassination attempt was made against him on Saturday (Jul&nbsp;13) in Butler County, Pennsylvania. Trump moved his head 'quarter of an inch' to look at border patrol statistics on the chart during his rally speech which eventually proved to be the difference between life and death for him.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-assassination-attempt-state-law-allows-gun-near-rnc-but-tennis-balls-banned-740882">Trump assassination bid: State law allows gun near RNC but tennis balls banned</a>

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The Republic National Convention (RNC) gets underway on Monday (Jul 15) at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, less than 48 hours after Donald Trump narrowly survived an assassination attempt. While guns are not allowed inside the venue, individuals will be allowed to carry them outside&nbsp;the convention centre in the outer perimeter.&nbsp;Tennis balls and paintball guns, however, remain a strict no-no.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/witnesses-warned-trumps-security-about-shooter-minutes-before-shots-were-fired-reports-740874">Witnesses warned Trump security about a man on roof minutes before shooting</a>

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Following an assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Pennsylvania, the US Secret Service is finding itself in the eye of the storm amid claims that they were warned about a man on the roof with a gun by people at the rally. Several eyewitnesses claim to have warned officials about the assassin several minutes before the shots were fired.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-suspected-trump-rally-shooter-was-a-quiet-lonely-bullied-child-in-school-reports-740885">US: Suspected Trump rally shooter was a 'quiet', 'lonely' &amp; 'bullied' child in school: Reports</a>

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The US is dealing with the aftermath of an alleged assassination attempt on Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican Party candidate for the 2024 US Elections. The Secret Service is on high alert for the Republican National Convention (RNC), which is slated to commence on Monday (Jul 14).

The US is dealing with the aftermath of an alleged assassination attempt on Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican Party candidate for the 2024 US Elections. The Secret Service is on high alert for the Republican National Convention (RNC), which is slated to commence on Monday (Jul 14). Meanwhile, President Joe Biden used the Oval Office for his address. Click on the headlines for more Trump Shooting | US President Biden uses Oval Office to address Americans: Was it a subtle flex of power? US President Joe Biden on Sunday (Jul 14) used the formal setting of the White House Oval Office to ask Americans to cool down after the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Biden's use of the Oval Office, for only the third time in his term, holds significance, especially as Republicans openly blame him for the attack on the ex-president. Ex-president Donald Trump credits 'border patrol chart' for saving his life Former US president Donald Trump has credited an immigration chart for saving his life after an assassination attempt was made against him on Saturday (Jul 13) in Butler County, Pennsylvania. Trump moved his head 'quarter of an inch' to look at border patrol statistics on the chart during his rally speech which eventually proved to be the difference between life and death for him. Trump assassination bid: State law allows gun near RNC but tennis balls banned The Republic National Convention (RNC) gets underway on Monday (Jul 15) at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, less than 48 hours after Donald Trump narrowly survived an assassination attempt. While guns are not allowed inside the venue, individuals will be allowed to carry them outside the convention centre in the outer perimeter. Tennis balls and paintball guns, however, remain a strict no-no. Witnesses warned Trump security about a man on roof minutes before shooting Following an assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Pennsylvania, the US Secret Service is finding itself in the eye of the storm amid claims that they were warned about a man on the roof with a gun by people at the rally. Several eyewitnesses claim to have warned officials about the assassin several minutes before the shots were fired. Watch | US: Suspected Trump rally shooter was a 'quiet', 'lonely' & 'bullied' child in school: Reports ×

Morning news brief: Trump credits 'border patrol chart' for saving his life; Biden addresses Americans, & more

An Israeli airstrike targeting a Hamas military leader claimed the lives of 90 Palestinians in&nbsp;Al-Mawasi, a designated humanitarian zone in Gaza on Saturday (Jul&nbsp;13).

Even as the enclave's health ministry reported the casualties wrought during Israel's attack on Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a news conference said that it remains unclear if the commander was killed.

"Either way, we will get to the whole of the leadership of Hamas," he told the news conference.

<h2>High-profile target</h2>

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, while announcing the uncertainty around Deif and another Hamas commander's killing, promised continued pressure on Hamas leadership to improve chances of a hostage deal.

As per Al Jazeera, Hamas has denied Deif's death. A senior official reportedly told the publication that Israeli claims were false and merely a justification for the deadly strike, which happens to be the deadliest Israeli attack on Gaza in weeks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-designates-hamas-a-terrorist-group-740453">Argentina designates Hamas as a terrorist group</a>

Israel says that the attack targeted Deif and Hamas' Khan Younis Brigade commander Rafa Salama, and described the two men as the masterminds behind the October 7 attack on southern Israel that triggered the nine-month war in Gaza.

<h2>Devastating impact</h2>

Displaced people in the targeted area described the devastation.&nbsp;Talking to news agency Reuters, Sheikh Youssef, a Gaza City resident now displaced in Al-Mawasi, recounted the chaos: "I couldn't even tell where I was or what was happening."

"I left the tent and looked around, all the tents were knocked down, body parts, bodies everywhere, elderly women thrown on the floor, young children in pieces," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-70-of-israelis-think-netanyahu-should-step-down-poll-740449">More than 70% of Israelis think Netanyahu should step down: Poll</a>

<h2>International response</h2>

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he was "shocked and saddened" by the civilian deaths. Highlighting the lack of safety in Gaza, he said "nowhere is safe in Gaza," and stressed the need to uphold international humanitarian law.

The Israeli military's strike reportedly also aimed at Rafa Salama, the commander of Hamas' Khan Younis Brigade. Both Deif and Salama are considered key figures behind the October 7 attack on southern Israel, which triggered the ongoing conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Israeli airstrike targeting a Hamas military leader claimed the lives of 90 Palestinians in Al-Mawasi, a designated humanitarian zone in Gaza on Saturday (Jul 13).

An Israeli airstrike targeting a Hamas military leader claimed the lives of 90 Palestinians in Al-Mawasi, a designated humanitarian zone in Gaza on Saturday (Jul 13). Even as the enclave's health ministry reported the casualties wrought during Israel's attack on Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a news conference said that it remains unclear if the commander was killed. "Either way, we will get to the whole of the leadership of Hamas," he told the news conference. High-profile target Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, while announcing the uncertainty around Deif and another Hamas commander's killing, promised continued pressure on Hamas leadership to improve chances of a hostage deal. As per Al Jazeera, Hamas has denied Deif's death. A senior official reportedly told the publication that Israeli claims were false and merely a justification for the deadly strike, which happens to be the deadliest Israeli attack on Gaza in weeks. Also read | Argentina designates Hamas as a terrorist group Israel says that the attack targeted Deif and Hamas' Khan Younis Brigade commander Rafa Salama, and described the two men as the masterminds behind the October 7 attack on southern Israel that triggered the nine-month war in Gaza. Devastating impact Displaced people in the targeted area described the devastation. Talking to news agency Reuters, Sheikh Youssef, a Gaza City resident now displaced in Al-Mawasi, recounted the chaos: "I couldn't even tell where I was or what was happening." "I left the tent and looked around, all the tents were knocked down, body parts, bodies everywhere, elderly women thrown on the floor, young children in pieces," he said. Also read | More than 70% of Israelis think Netanyahu should step down: Poll International response UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he was "shocked and saddened" by the civilian deaths. Highlighting the lack of safety in Gaza, he said "nowhere is safe in Gaza," and stressed the need to uphold international humanitarian law. The Israeli military's strike reportedly also aimed at Rafa Salama, the commander of Hamas' Khan Younis Brigade. Both Deif and Salama are considered key figures behind the October 7 attack on southern Israel, which triggered the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu uncertain if Hamas commander Dief was killed in Israeli airstrike that took 90 civilian lives

Today, the top news is the alleged assassination attempt on Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican Party candidate for the 2024 US Elections. Scroll down to read the various fasts of Trump's brush with death.

Click on the headlines for more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-dodges-death-as-gunman-shoots-at-him-during-campaign-rally-in-pennsylvania-740605">Donald Trump dodges death as gunman shoots at him during Campaign Rally in Pennsylvania</a>

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Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican Party Presidential candidate, was shot at in an alleged assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday (July 13).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secret-service-responsible-for-donald-trumps-security-releases-statement-after-massive-lapse-740620">US Secret Service responsible for Donald Trump's security issues statement after massive lapse</a>

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The US Secret Service (SS), responsible for the security of former president Donald Trump, has stated that "multiple shots" were fired towards the Republican leader from an elevated position outside the rally venue.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-safe-but-injured-who-shot-at-the-republican-ex-president-all-we-know-740629">All we know about Thomas Mathew Crook, the man who tried to assassinate Donald Trump</a>

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The shooter has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Mathew Crook by the New York Post. His motive for trying to kill Trump is not clear at the moment. He attempted the horrific act using an&nbsp;AR-style rifle.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-rally-shooting-biden-harris-and-other-political-bigwigs-grateful-former-prez-is-safe-740603">Trump rally shooting: Biden, Modi and other political bigwigs 'grateful' former prez safe after attack</a>

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The political bigwigs in the United States came together to condemn the attack on former president Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday (Jul 13). President Joe Biden led the pack by posting a message that stated he was 'grateful' that Trump was safe.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Trump rally shooting: FBI begins probe into assassination attempt

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Today, the top news is the alleged assassination attempt on Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican Party candidate for the 2024 US Elections. Scroll down to read the various fasts of Trump's brush with death.

Today, the top news is the alleged assassination attempt on Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican Party candidate for the 2024 US Elections. Scroll down to read the various fasts of Trump's brush with death. Click on the headlines for more Donald Trump dodges death as gunman shoots at him during Campaign Rally in Pennsylvania Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican Party Presidential candidate, was shot at in an alleged assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday (July 13). US Secret Service responsible for Donald Trump's security issues statement after massive lapse The US Secret Service (SS), responsible for the security of former president Donald Trump, has stated that "multiple shots" were fired towards the Republican leader from an elevated position outside the rally venue. All we know about Thomas Mathew Crook, the man who tried to assassinate Donald Trump The shooter has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Mathew Crook by the New York Post. His motive for trying to kill Trump is not clear at the moment. He attempted the horrific act using an AR-style rifle. Trump rally shooting: Biden, Modi and other political bigwigs 'grateful' former prez safe after attack The political bigwigs in the United States came together to condemn the attack on former president Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday (Jul 13). President Joe Biden led the pack by posting a message that stated he was 'grateful' that Trump was safe. Watch | Trump rally shooting: FBI begins probe into assassination attempt

Morning news brief: Donald Trump assassination attempt, updates on the man who tried to kill him, and more

Fellow Democrats are urging U.S. President Joe Biden to end his re-election campaign. Even though Biden is insisting that he is pushing ahead with his re-election bid. Watch this video for all details.

Joe Biden mixes up names of Harris, Trump, Zelensky and Putin in a series of gaffes

On 7 October, during the initial chaos of the Hamas assault, Israel's armed forces reportedly employed a controversial battle tactic called the "Hannibal protocol," claims a report.&nbsp;

As per the Israeli daily Haaretz, this procedure was used at three army facilities attacked by Hamas and potentially put civilians at risk.

<h2>What is the Hannibal Protocol?</h2>

This controversial directive as per reports was used by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) until 2016. The protocol has just one goal: to prevent the capture of soldiers by enemy soldiers, even at the cost of hostages' lives.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hundreds-of-israeli-protesters-push-for-truce-deal-block-roads-in-tel-aviv-738727">Gaza war: Hundreds of Israeli protesters push for truce deal, block roads in Tel Aviv</a>

According to "Forensic Architecture, Violence at the Threshold of Detectability" a book by Eyal Weizman, one version of the Hannibal Protocol says that "the kidnapping must be stopped by all means, even at the price of striking and harming our own forces."

Reportedly, at 11:22 am, about five hours after the attack began, a directive was issued to Israel’s Gaza division stating, "Not a single vehicle can return to Gaza."

This message, as per the Haaretz report quoting a source, meant preventing any vehicles from returning, regardless of potential casualties.

"Everyone knew by then that such vehicles could be carrying kidnapped civilians or soldiers … Everyone knew what it meant to not let any vehicles return to Gaza."

It is not known how many civilian or military casualties happened because of this order, however, documents and testimonies from soldiers and mid-senior level IDF officers suggest Hannibal protocol's use was "widespread".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-accepts-us-proposal-to-begin-talks-on-releasing-israeli-hostages-738441">Gaza war: Hamas accepts US proposal to begin talks on releasing Israeli hostages</a>

<h2>Israel Investigation and Reactions</h2>

An Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson reportedly told the publication that internal investigations into the events of 7 October are ongoing.&nbsp;

"The aim of these investigations is to learn and to draw lessons which could be used in continuing the battle. When these investigations are concluded, the results will be presented to the public with transparency," read the statement, as reported by The Guardian.

(With inputs from agencies)

On 7 October, during the initial chaos of the Hamas assault, Israel's armed forces reportedly employed a controversial battle tactic called the "Hannibal protocol," claims a report.

On 7 October, during the initial chaos of the Hamas assault, Israel's armed forces reportedly employed a controversial battle tactic called the "Hannibal protocol," claims a report. As per the Israeli daily Haaretz, this procedure was used at three army facilities attacked by Hamas and potentially put civilians at risk. What is the Hannibal Protocol? This controversial directive as per reports was used by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) until 2016. The protocol has just one goal: to prevent the capture of soldiers by enemy soldiers, even at the cost of hostages' lives. Also read | Gaza war: Hundreds of Israeli protesters push for truce deal, block roads in Tel Aviv According to "Forensic Architecture, Violence at the Threshold of Detectability" a book by Eyal Weizman, one version of the Hannibal Protocol says that "the kidnapping must be stopped by all means, even at the price of striking and harming our own forces." Reportedly, at 11:22 am, about five hours after the attack began, a directive was issued to Israel’s Gaza division stating, "Not a single vehicle can return to Gaza." This message, as per the Haaretz report quoting a source, meant preventing any vehicles from returning, regardless of potential casualties. "Everyone knew by then that such vehicles could be carrying kidnapped civilians or soldiers … Everyone knew what it meant to not let any vehicles return to Gaza." It is not known how many civilian or military casualties happened because of this order, however, documents and testimonies from soldiers and mid-senior level IDF officers suggest Hannibal protocol's use was "widespread". Also read | Gaza war: Hamas accepts US proposal to begin talks on releasing Israeli hostages Israel Investigation and Reactions An Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson reportedly told the publication that internal investigations into the events of 7 October are ongoing. "The aim of these investigations is to learn and to draw lessons which could be used in continuing the battle. When these investigations are concluded, the results will be presented to the public with transparency," read the statement, as reported by The Guardian. (With inputs from agencies)

IDF used controversial 'Hannibal protocol' endangering civilians on Oct 7: Report

Severe floods in India's northeastern Assam state inundated houses and agricultural fields. Heavy rains have triggered flash floods across the state. Watch this video for all details.

Assam floods: Situation worsens in India’s Assam due to floods

Reports suggest that&nbsp;senior House Democrats are set to publicly urge President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race on Monday because of concerns about his ability to serve effectively for the next four years.

In other news, Boeing has avoided a criminal trial over the 737 Max crashes by accepting a plea deal for a criminal fraud charge, as announced by the Justice Department.

In France, the elections concluded with a hung parliament, creating political uncertainty despite the left's victory over the far-right. Here's what it means.

On October 7, during the Hamas assault, the Israel Defence Forces reportedly used the controversial "Hannibal protocol," a battle tactic that endangers civilians.

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia occurs amid strengthening ties between Russia and China.

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-house-democrat-to-publicly-ask-biden-to-exit-presidential-race-on-monday-reports-suggest-738825">Senior House Democrat to publicly ask Biden to exit presidential race on Monday, reports suggest</a>

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US President Joe Biden's woes seem to have taken a never-ending turn as several senior House Democrats have reportedly discussed that Biden should step down as their party's 2024 White House nominee. They all reportedly got on a private phone call Sunday afternoon, as per reports, and plan to speak up publicly about their concerns on Monday. The major concern, as a source who spoke to USA Today, is whether Biden can efficiently carry on the work of a president for the next four years.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-avoids-criminal-trial-over-737-max-crashes-after-accepting-plead-deal-738824">Boeing avoids criminal trial over 737 Max crashes after accepting plea deal</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/01/440965-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=400" />

Boeing will plead guilty to a criminal fraud charge stemming from two deadly crashes of 737 Max jetliners after the government determined the company violated an agreement that had protected it from prosecution for more than three years, the Justice Department said Sunday night.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-french-elections-ended-in-a-hung-parliament-what-happens-next-738795">Explained: French elections ended in a hung parliament. What happens next?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442199-new-wion-93.png?imwidth=400" />

France on Monday (July 7) delivered a crippling blow to the far-right that looked set to win what was labelled a "seismic" election.&nbsp;

The nation is in a state of political uncertainty. Even as the left defeated the far right in the French elections, neither party won the absolute majority, leaving the nation with a hung parliament.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-used-controversial-hannibal-protocol-endangering-civilians-on-oct-7-report-738829">IDF used controversial 'Hannibal protocol' endangering civilians on Oct 7: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442220-new-wion-94.png?imwidth=400" />

On 7 October, during the initial chaos of the Hamas assault, Israel's armed forces reportedly employed a controversial battle tactic called the "Hannibal protocol," claims a report.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;PM Modi's Russia Visit: Visit comes amid growing Russia-China ties

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modis-russia-visit-visit-comes-amid-growing-russia-china-ties-738827/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Reports suggest that senior House Democrats are set to publicly urge President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race on Monday because of concerns about his ability to serve effectively for the next four years.

Reports suggest that senior House Democrats are set to publicly urge President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race on Monday because of concerns about his ability to serve effectively for the next four years. In other news, Boeing has avoided a criminal trial over the 737 Max crashes by accepting a plea deal for a criminal fraud charge, as announced by the Justice Department. In France, the elections concluded with a hung parliament, creating political uncertainty despite the left's victory over the far-right. Here's what it means. On October 7, during the Hamas assault, the Israel Defence Forces reportedly used the controversial "Hannibal protocol," a battle tactic that endangers civilians. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia occurs amid strengthening ties between Russia and China. Click on the headlines to read more Senior House Democrat to publicly ask Biden to exit presidential race on Monday, reports suggest US President Joe Biden's woes seem to have taken a never-ending turn as several senior House Democrats have reportedly discussed that Biden should step down as their party's 2024 White House nominee. They all reportedly got on a private phone call Sunday afternoon, as per reports, and plan to speak up publicly about their concerns on Monday. The major concern, as a source who spoke to USA Today, is whether Biden can efficiently carry on the work of a president for the next four years. Boeing avoids criminal trial over 737 Max crashes after accepting plea deal Boeing will plead guilty to a criminal fraud charge stemming from two deadly crashes of 737 Max jetliners after the government determined the company violated an agreement that had protected it from prosecution for more than three years, the Justice Department said Sunday night. Explained: French elections ended in a hung parliament. What happens next? France on Monday (July 7) delivered a crippling blow to the far-right that looked set to win what was labelled a "seismic" election. The nation is in a state of political uncertainty. Even as the left defeated the far right in the French elections, neither party won the absolute majority, leaving the nation with a hung parliament. IDF used controversial 'Hannibal protocol' endangering civilians on Oct 7: Report On 7 October, during the initial chaos of the Hamas assault, Israel's armed forces reportedly employed a controversial battle tactic called the "Hannibal protocol," claims a report. Watch | PM Modi's Russia Visit: Visit comes amid growing Russia-China ties

Morning brief: Senior Democrats to ask Biden to quit election race; Boeing avoids criminal trial, and more

Who will Win UK's Next General Elections?After the Conservatives lost around 1000 seats in the local elections, UK's Labour party has become more confident than ever about returning to power in 2024. Labour leader Keir Starmer says the local election result was a clear rejection of PM Rishi Sunak. Vikram Chandra tells you.

Who will win UK'S next general election? Labour says voters have rejected Rishi Sunak

In the United Kingdom, voters are gearing up to cast their ballots in a pivotal general election today (Thursday, July 4). The election is widely seen as a referendum on 14 years of Conservative governance.

In Australia, pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Parliament House in Canberra, brandishing banners declaring "Palestine will be free" and accusing Israel of war crimes.

Meanwhile, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 25 soldiers were sentenced to death for fleeing the enemy during battles against M23 rebels.

In Canada, Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan made history by appointing its first woman&nbsp;Chief of the Defence Staff, a move by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to elevate women to senior roles.

Lastly, the Indian cricket team, fondly known as the 'Men in Blue'&nbsp;have arrived in New Delhi five days after winning the World Cup.

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-voters-head-to-the-polls-for-landmark-general-election-737612">UK voters prepare to head to polls for the general election</a>

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Voters in the UK are heading to the polls on Thursday (July 4) for a key general election that is being seen as a referendum on 14 years of Conservative rule.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-will-be-free-pro-palestine-protestors-climb-australia-parliament-roof-blame-israel-of-war-crimes-737610">'Palestine will be free': Pro-Palestine protestors climb Australia Parliament roof, blame Israel of war crimes</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/04/441527-new-wion-2024-07-04t081313467.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Australian Parliament House in the capital Canberra on Thursday (July 4). Carrying banners that said "Palestine will be free", the protesters accused Israel of war crimes.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dr-congo-sentences-25-soldiers-to-death-for-fleeing-the-enemy-lawyer-737630">DR Congo sentences 25 soldiers to death for 'fleeing the enemy': Lawyer</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/06/18/99047-untitled-design-6.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Twenty-five soldiers accused of "fleeing the enemy" while fighting M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo were sentenced to death Wednesday during a one-day trial, according to their lawyers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-jennie-carignan-canadas-first-woman-to-be-appointed-chief-of-the-defence-staff-737642">Who is Jennie Carignan? Canada's first woman to be appointed Chief of the Defence Staff</a>

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In a historic first, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday (July 3)&nbsp;appointed Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan as the country's top soldier, in charge of leading the military. This appointment is in line with Trudeau's continuing push to appoint women to the most senior jobs.

Watch |&nbsp;The men in blue landed in New Delhi five days winning WC

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-men-in-blue-landed-in-new-delhi-five-days-winning-wc-737640/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the United Kingdom, voters are gearing up to cast their ballots in a pivotal general election today (Thursday, July 4). The election is widely seen as a referendum on 14 years of Conservative governance.

In the United Kingdom, voters are gearing up to cast their ballots in a pivotal general election today (Thursday, July 4). The election is widely seen as a referendum on 14 years of Conservative governance. In Australia, pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Parliament House in Canberra, brandishing banners declaring "Palestine will be free" and accusing Israel of war crimes. Meanwhile, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 25 soldiers were sentenced to death for fleeing the enemy during battles against M23 rebels. In Canada, Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan made history by appointing its first woman Chief of the Defence Staff, a move by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to elevate women to senior roles. Lastly, the Indian cricket team, fondly known as the 'Men in Blue' have arrived in New Delhi five days after winning the World Cup. Click on the headlines to read more UK voters prepare to head to polls for the general election Voters in the UK are heading to the polls on Thursday (July 4) for a key general election that is being seen as a referendum on 14 years of Conservative rule. 'Palestine will be free': Pro-Palestine protestors climb Australia Parliament roof, blame Israel of war crimes Pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Australian Parliament House in the capital Canberra on Thursday (July 4). Carrying banners that said "Palestine will be free", the protesters accused Israel of war crimes. DR Congo sentences 25 soldiers to death for 'fleeing the enemy': Lawyer Twenty-five soldiers accused of "fleeing the enemy" while fighting M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo were sentenced to death Wednesday during a one-day trial, according to their lawyers. Who is Jennie Carignan? Canada's first woman to be appointed Chief of the Defence Staff In a historic first, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday (July 3) appointed Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan as the country's top soldier, in charge of leading the military. This appointment is in line with Trudeau's continuing push to appoint women to the most senior jobs. Watch | The men in blue landed in New Delhi five days winning WC

Morning news brief: Voting in UK polls; Canada names first woman to lead military, and more

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