The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha in India began today with the oath-taking ceremony of the newly-elcted Member of Parliaments in the 18th Lok Sabha.

Parliament Session begins: PM Modi, other MPs to take oath; what's on agenda?

The Congress on Friday (June&nbsp;14) claimed that the idea behind relocating statues of Mahatma Gandhi, B R Ambedkar and Chhatrapati Shivaji among others within Parliament premises is to ensure that they are not in a prominent place where MPs could conduct peaceful and democratic protests. The statue of Gandhi was often the backdrop for several opposition protests in the past.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh shared on X a circular issued by the Lok Sabha secretariat stating that a ceremony will take place on Sunday at 6:30 PM in the Parliament House Estate to inaugurate the newly-created ‘Prerna Sthal’.

In the statement, the Lok Sabha Secretariat had said last week that due to the location of statues at different places in the Parliament premises, visitors were not able to view them conveniently.

“For this reason, all these statues are being respectfully installed in a grand ‘Prerna Sthal’ in Parliament House premises," it said.

This ‘Prerna Sthal’ is being developed in such a way that those coming to visit the Parliament complex view the statues of these great persons conveniently and get inspired by their life experiences, the statement said.

In his post tagging the circular, Ramesh said on Friday, “The whole idea of this relocation and giving it a grandiose name is to ensure that the statues of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr Ambedkar are not in a prominent place right in front of Parliament House where MPs could conduct peaceful and democratic protests as and when required – and with the Modi regime they are required very frequently, almost on a daily basis.”

The Congress had last week also alleged that the statues have been relocated within Parliament premises to ensure that Opposition parties cannot hold democratic protests, and said such “stunts” cannot save Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “unstable government” from falling.

The Congress on Friday (June 14) claimed that the idea behind relocating statues of Mahatma Gandhi, B R Ambedkar and Chhatrapati Shivaji among others within Parliament premises is to ensure that they are not in a prominent place where MPs could conduct peaceful and democratic protests.

The Congress on Friday (June 14) claimed that the idea behind relocating statues of Mahatma Gandhi, B R Ambedkar and Chhatrapati Shivaji among others within Parliament premises is to ensure that they are not in a prominent place where MPs could conduct peaceful and democratic protests. The statue of Gandhi was often the backdrop for several opposition protests in the past. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh shared on X a circular issued by the Lok Sabha secretariat stating that a ceremony will take place on Sunday at 6:30 PM in the Parliament House Estate to inaugurate the newly-created ‘Prerna Sthal’. In the statement, the Lok Sabha Secretariat had said last week that due to the location of statues at different places in the Parliament premises, visitors were not able to view them conveniently. “For this reason, all these statues are being respectfully installed in a grand ‘Prerna Sthal’ in Parliament House premises," it said. This ‘Prerna Sthal’ is being developed in such a way that those coming to visit the Parliament complex view the statues of these great persons conveniently and get inspired by their life experiences, the statement said. In his post tagging the circular, Ramesh said on Friday, “The whole idea of this relocation and giving it a grandiose name is to ensure that the statues of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr Ambedkar are not in a prominent place right in front of Parliament House where MPs could conduct peaceful and democratic protests as and when required – and with the Modi regime they are required very frequently, almost on a daily basis.” The Congress had last week also alleged that the statues have been relocated within Parliament premises to ensure that Opposition parties cannot hold democratic protests, and said such “stunts” cannot save Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “unstable government” from falling.

Parliament statues relocated to ensure they are not in prominent place for MPs to protest: Congress

Weird scenes unfolded in the Italian Parliament when lawmakers were seen engaging in a physical altercation and blowing punches at each other after a brawl broke out at a time when the country was preparing to welcome world leaders for the G7 Summit.

The brawl broke out over the plans of the far-right government to grant regions more autonomy.

The fight started when Five Star Movement (MS5) deputy Leonardo Donno walked towards regional affairs minister Roberto Calderoli of the pro-autonomy Northern League and tried to tie an Italian flag around his neck.

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Within seconds, Calderoli's fellow League deputies mobbed Donno and it turned into a scuffle between 20 men. In the physical fight, Donno was injured and was taken away in a wheelchair before he was admitted to a hospital. The video of the entire brawl was shared multiple times on social media platforms and went viral.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-lands-in-italy-to-attend-g7-summit-hold-bilateral-meets-with-world-leaders-731572">PM Modi lands in Italy for G7 Summit, to meet several heads of states</a>

<h2>Scuffle in the Italian parliament triggers a flurry of reactions&nbsp;</h2>

As the footage of the brawl went viral, it attracted a flurry of reactions from political leaders.&nbsp;

Lawmakers from the League and the Brothers of Italy accused Donno of faking his injuries and provoking the incident.

It was denounced by the M5S as a "serious and shameful attack" as they called for immediate measures.

"Violence comes from the benches of the Meloni majority... Shame," wrote M5S leader Giuseppe Conte on social media network X.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, while speaking to Sky TG24, accepted that lawmakers should maintain higher standards and that politicians "have to set a completely different example".

Watch:&nbsp;G7 summit: PM Modi to attend summit in Italy

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"The chamber is not a boxing ring... it's not fisticuffs that solve political problems," he added.

Tajani emphasised the need to resolve political disputes without engaging in physical altercations.&nbsp;

"I have no words. We should set a better example, not resort to punches to solve political problems," the minister said.

Later, speaking to the Italian news agency Adnkronos, Donno said that he “got close” to Calderoli while trying to hand him the flag and "nothing else".

He further spoke about how chaos erupted afterwards and said, "I was kicked several times and received a strong blow to my chest, causing me to collapse because I couldn't breathe."

(With inputs from agencies)

Weird scenes unfolded in the Italian Parliament when lawmakers were seen engaging in a physical altercation and blowing punches at each other after a brawl broke out at a time when the country was preparing to welcome world leaders for the G7 Summit.

Weird scenes unfolded in the Italian Parliament when lawmakers were seen engaging in a physical altercation and blowing punches at each other after a brawl broke out at a time when the country was preparing to welcome world leaders for the G7 Summit. The brawl broke out over the plans of the far-right government to grant regions more autonomy. The fight started when Five Star Movement (MS5) deputy Leonardo Donno walked towards regional affairs minister Roberto Calderoli of the pro-autonomy Northern League and tried to tie an Italian flag around his neck. Italian MPs fight in parliament after one MP tried to hand over the flag to his opponent as a symbolic act of national neglect. pic.twitter.com/LNGYPAXBMP — 𝕏 (@AlertChannel) June 13, 2024 × Within seconds, Calderoli's fellow League deputies mobbed Donno and it turned into a scuffle between 20 men. In the physical fight, Donno was injured and was taken away in a wheelchair before he was admitted to a hospital. The video of the entire brawl was shared multiple times on social media platforms and went viral. Also Read: PM Modi lands in Italy for G7 Summit, to meet several heads of states Scuffle in the Italian parliament triggers a flurry of reactions As the footage of the brawl went viral, it attracted a flurry of reactions from political leaders. Lawmakers from the League and the Brothers of Italy accused Donno of faking his injuries and provoking the incident. It was denounced by the M5S as a "serious and shameful attack" as they called for immediate measures. "Violence comes from the benches of the Meloni majority... Shame," wrote M5S leader Giuseppe Conte on social media network X. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, while speaking to Sky TG24, accepted that lawmakers should maintain higher standards and that politicians "have to set a completely different example". Watch: G7 summit: PM Modi to attend summit in Italy "The chamber is not a boxing ring... it's not fisticuffs that solve political problems," he added. Tajani emphasised the need to resolve political disputes without engaging in physical altercations. "I have no words. We should set a better example, not resort to punches to solve political problems," the minister said. Later, speaking to the Italian news agency Adnkronos, Donno said that he “got close” to Calderoli while trying to hand him the flag and "nothing else". He further spoke about how chaos erupted afterwards and said, "I was kicked several times and received a strong blow to my chest, causing me to collapse because I couldn't breathe." (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Italian MPs throw punches at each other in parliament as country hosts G7 Summit

Now Italy which is holding G7 meeting witnessed unruly scenes in its Parliament. A brawl broke out in the parliament resulting in the apparent injury of one lawmaker who had to leave the chamber in a wheelchair.

Italy: Fistfight breaks out in Italy's Parliament amid ongoing G7 summit

Now Italy which is holding G7 meeting witnessed unruly scenes in its Parliament. A brawl broke out in the parliament resulting in the apparent injury of one lawmaker who had to leave the chamber in a wheelchair

Italy: Lawmakers engage in fistfight in Parliament amid ongoing G7 summit in the nation

Italy which is holding a G7 meeting witnessed unruly scenes in its Parliament. A brawl broke out in the parliament resulting in the apparent injury of one lawmaker who had to leave the chamber in a wheelchair.

Fistfight between Italian lawmakers as they discussed a bill over local autonomies

Kulwinder Kaur, a female constable in the CISF, has been suspended for hitting Bollywood actress and BJP MP from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, on Thursday. Based on a written complaint from CISF officers, a First Information Report (FIR) is being filed against the CISF constable at Chandigarh Airport. Additionally, CISF has filed a complaint with the local police.

Kangana Ranaut Slap Row: Which controversial remark led to the incident?

Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz's centrist party on Thursday (May 30) said that they had submitted a bill seeking to dissolve the parliament and have an early election.

"The head of the National Union Party, Pnina Tamano-Shata, has put forward a bill to dissolve the 25th Knesset. This follows the request of party leader Minister Benny Gantz to move forward in broad agreement to an election before October, a year since the massacre," said the political party, in a statement.

The submission of the bill is seen as an attempt to topple Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-uncovers-15-kilometre-long-terrorist-tunnel-route-in-eastern-rafah-727109">Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-kilometre-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in eastern Rafah</a>

National Unity MK Pnina Tamano-Shata had submitted the proposal to dissolve Israel’s parliament, Israel Hayom reported.

Countering the bill, Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party said that "the dissolution of the unity government is a reward for (Hamas Gaza leader Yahya) Sinwar, a capitulation to international pressure and a fatal blow to efforts to free our hostages".

In Israel, the election is not due before the final quarter of 2026 and earlier, the Likud party had warned that holding an early election would harm the fight against Hamas in Gaza.

<h2>Gantz's deadline for Netanyahu to draw a plan of action&nbsp;</h2>

This month, Gantz threatened to resign from the war cabinet if Netanyahu did not finalise a post-war plan for the Gaza Strip.

He had earlier threatened to leave the coalition of Netanyahu if the president did not sketch a plan for the Gaza war.

“I look you in the eyes tonight and tell you: The choice is in your hands. After talking to you again and again, the moment of truth has come,” Gantz said.

He gave a deadline of June 8 to Netanyahu for finalising a plan of action and to finalise six key strategic goals of the war.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Gaza war may go on for next 7 months: Israel

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The strategic goals listed by Netanyahu are - bringing home the hostages; destroying Hamas, creating an “international civilian governance mechanism for Gaza” including Palestinians but not P.A. leader Mahmoud Abbas or Hamas; advancing normalisation with Saudi Arabia and establishing a new framework for Israelis’ military service; demilitarizing the Gaza Strip and establishing Israeli security control there and returning the residents to the north and rehabilitating the western Negev.

Gantz in April had stated that Israel should go to the elections in September. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant had also criticised Netanyahu for not being able to rule out an Israeli occupation of Gaza after the war.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz's centrist party on Thursday (May 30) said that they had submitted a bill seeking to dissolve the parliament and have an early election.

Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz's centrist party on Thursday (May 30) said that they had submitted a bill seeking to dissolve the parliament and have an early election. "The head of the National Union Party, Pnina Tamano-Shata, has put forward a bill to dissolve the 25th Knesset. This follows the request of party leader Minister Benny Gantz to move forward in broad agreement to an election before October, a year since the massacre," said the political party, in a statement. The submission of the bill is seen as an attempt to topple Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. Also Read: Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-kilometre-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in eastern Rafah National Unity MK Pnina Tamano-Shata had submitted the proposal to dissolve Israel’s parliament, Israel Hayom reported. Countering the bill, Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party said that "the dissolution of the unity government is a reward for (Hamas Gaza leader Yahya) Sinwar, a capitulation to international pressure and a fatal blow to efforts to free our hostages". In Israel, the election is not due before the final quarter of 2026 and earlier, the Likud party had warned that holding an early election would harm the fight against Hamas in Gaza. Gantz's deadline for Netanyahu to draw a plan of action This month, Gantz threatened to resign from the war cabinet if Netanyahu did not finalise a post-war plan for the Gaza Strip. He had earlier threatened to leave the coalition of Netanyahu if the president did not sketch a plan for the Gaza war. “I look you in the eyes tonight and tell you: The choice is in your hands. After talking to you again and again, the moment of truth has come,” Gantz said. He gave a deadline of June 8 to Netanyahu for finalising a plan of action and to finalise six key strategic goals of the war. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Gaza war may go on for next 7 months: Israel The strategic goals listed by Netanyahu are - bringing home the hostages; destroying Hamas, creating an “international civilian governance mechanism for Gaza” including Palestinians but not P.A. leader Mahmoud Abbas or Hamas; advancing normalisation with Saudi Arabia and establishing a new framework for Israelis’ military service; demilitarizing the Gaza Strip and establishing Israeli security control there and returning the residents to the north and rehabilitating the western Negev. Gantz in April had stated that Israel should go to the elections in September. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant had also criticised Netanyahu for not being able to rule out an Israeli occupation of Gaza after the war. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu to lose power? Gantz's centrist party submits bill to dissolve Israeli parliament

Taiwan's cabinet will reject and send back for review legislation the opposition&nbsp;passed on Tuesday on parliamentary reforms that have brought tens of thousands onto the streets to protest amid accusations of Chinese interference.

The peaceful protests, and sometimes&nbsp;violent confrontations in parliament over the reforms, have been taking place against a backdrop of broader concern about efforts by China, which views Taiwan as its own territory, to influence the island's politics and split Taiwanese public opinion.

The Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) Lai Ching-te won the presidency in January elections, but the party lost its majority in parliament. Taiwan's main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), along with the small Taiwan People's Party, together have the most seats.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protests-erupt-as-opposition-controlled-taiwan-parliament-pushes-pro-china-reforms-726406">Protests erupt as opposition-controlled Taiwan parliament pushes pro-China&nbsp;‘reforms’</a>

The parliament reforms give lawmakers the power to ask the military, private companies or individuals to disclose information deemed relevant by parliamentarians, who have the power to punish those who fail to co-operate.

They also criminalise contempt of parliament by government officials, and require the president to give regular reports to parliament and answer lawmakers' questions, which would be a first for Taiwan.

In a statement late on Monday, the cabinet said the legislation could breach the constitution and separation of power between the executive and legislative branches, and once it had received the documents it will send them back for parliament to reconsider.

The cabinet said while that was likely to be vetoed by parliament, it was "duty bound" to do this.

The DPP, which says the reforms were forced through without proper consultation and their content either vague or an over-reach of power, said it would support its lawmakers to ask the constitutional court for an interpretation on whether the laws and the way the reforms were pushed through were constitutional.

The DPP, and many of the protesters, have repeatedly accused the KMT of being in league with Beijing in trying to ram through the legislation.

Watch:&nbsp;Taiwan-China tensions: Is China preparing to invade Taiwan?

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Several senior KMT leaders have visited China this year in what the party says is an effort to keep open lines of communication. China refuses to talk to Lai or his party, saying they are "separatists".

The KMT strongly denies being pro-Beijing and says the parliament reforms are meant to improve government accountability.

"The KMT dismisses the accusations of collusion with China as unfounded and politically driven," the party said in statement in the early hours of Wednesday.

China views Taiwan as its own territory. The government in Taipei rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims, saying only the island's people can decide their future.

Taiwan's cabinet will reject and send back for review legislation the opposition passed on Tuesday on parliamentary reforms that have brought tens of thousands onto the streets to protest amid accusations of Chinese interference.

Taiwan's cabinet will reject and send back for review legislation the opposition passed on Tuesday on parliamentary reforms that have brought tens of thousands onto the streets to protest amid accusations of Chinese interference. The peaceful protests, and sometimes violent confrontations in parliament over the reforms, have been taking place against a backdrop of broader concern about efforts by China, which views Taiwan as its own territory, to influence the island's politics and split Taiwanese public opinion. The Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) Lai Ching-te won the presidency in January elections, but the party lost its majority in parliament. Taiwan's main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), along with the small Taiwan People's Party, together have the most seats. Also Read: Protests erupt as opposition-controlled Taiwan parliament pushes pro-China ‘reforms’ The parliament reforms give lawmakers the power to ask the military, private companies or individuals to disclose information deemed relevant by parliamentarians, who have the power to punish those who fail to co-operate. They also criminalise contempt of parliament by government officials, and require the president to give regular reports to parliament and answer lawmakers' questions, which would be a first for Taiwan. In a statement late on Monday, the cabinet said the legislation could breach the constitution and separation of power between the executive and legislative branches, and once it had received the documents it will send them back for parliament to reconsider. The cabinet said while that was likely to be vetoed by parliament, it was "duty bound" to do this. The DPP, which says the reforms were forced through without proper consultation and their content either vague or an over-reach of power, said it would support its lawmakers to ask the constitutional court for an interpretation on whether the laws and the way the reforms were pushed through were constitutional. The DPP, and many of the protesters, have repeatedly accused the KMT of being in league with Beijing in trying to ram through the legislation. Watch: Taiwan-China tensions: Is China preparing to invade Taiwan? Several senior KMT leaders have visited China this year in what the party says is an effort to keep open lines of communication. China refuses to talk to Lai or his party, saying they are "separatists". The KMT strongly denies being pro-Beijing and says the parliament reforms are meant to improve government accountability. "The KMT dismisses the accusations of collusion with China as unfounded and politically driven," the party said in statement in the early hours of Wednesday. China views Taiwan as its own territory. The government in Taipei rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims, saying only the island's people can decide their future.

Taiwan government to reject contested parliament reforms

During a heated parliamentary debate over a controversial foreign influence law, water was poured on Georgian opposition lawmaker Giorgi Vashadze while he delivered&nbsp;his speech.

Undeterred, Vashadze continued, stating, "This water will not harm me, and the Georgian people will not be harmed by the traitor's way you have chosen."

The incident occurred as the Georgian parliament debated the divisive "foreign agents" bill, which has sparked weeks of massive protests and raised concerns in the West.

President Salome Zourabichvili's vetoed the bill on May 18 but the parliament, dominated by the ruling Georgian Dream party, overrode the veto with an 84-4 vote.

The bill mandates that media and nonprofit organisations register as foreign agents if they receive more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad.

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Critics argue that the legislation mirrors restrictive measures in Russia and jeopardises Georgia's aspirations to join the European Union.

Zourabichvili has warned that the bill endangers Georgia's future and hinders "the path towards becoming a full member of the free and democratic world."&nbsp;

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◾ <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgianDream41?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GeorgianDream41</a> MP Irma Zavradashvili poured water on Giorgi Vashadze in <a href="https://twitter.com/Geoparliament?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geoparliament</a>. 
 
◾"This is the way of traitors who have reached savagery" - <a href="https://twitter.com/vashadze_giorgi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vashadze_giorgi</a> responded to Zavradashvili's behavior 
 
2023, <a href="https://twitter.com/Transparency_GE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Transparency_GE</a> about Zavradashvili: 
📌<a href="https://t.co/xJOpQCpg1e">https://t.co/xJOpQCpg1e</a> <a href="https://t.co/weQgQenF2L">pic.twitter.com/weQgQenF2L</a>
— ბათუმელები • Batumelebi.ge (@Batumelebi_ge) <a href="https://twitter.com/Batumelebi_ge/status/1795462531223298495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Following the veto override, the president has five days to sign the bill into law, or the parliament speaker will do so.

Outside the parliament, opponents of the bill rallied, chanting "Slaves!" and later marched past Georgian Dream headquarters.

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The government defended the bill as necessary to protect the nation from harmful foreign influences. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze reportedly argued that the law would bolster Georgia's EU membership prospects, stating, "The law on transparency will create better grounds for ensuring the membership of Georgia in the EU."

<h2>US condemns foreign influence bill&nbsp;</h2>

The EU's foreign policy arm and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken have both criticised the law. Blinken announced travel sanctions against Georgian officials.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-should-be-allowed-to-hit-sites-in-russia-macron-scholz-726569">Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine should be allowed to hit sites in Russia: Macron, Scholz</a>

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Protests in Tbilisi have continued, with demonstrators clashing with police, who have resorted to tear gas and water cannons.

Tensions between Russia and Georgia have simmered since a brief war in 2008. The status of the breakaway province of South Ossetia remains a contentious issue.

(With inputs from agencies)

During a heated parliamentary debate over a controversial foreign influence law, water was poured on Georgian opposition lawmaker Giorgi Vashadze while he delivered his speech.

During a heated parliamentary debate over a controversial foreign influence law, water was poured on Georgian opposition lawmaker Giorgi Vashadze while he delivered his speech. Undeterred, Vashadze continued, stating, "This water will not harm me, and the Georgian people will not be harmed by the traitor's way you have chosen." The incident occurred as the Georgian parliament debated the divisive "foreign agents" bill, which has sparked weeks of massive protests and raised concerns in the West. President Salome Zourabichvili's vetoed the bill on May 18 but the parliament, dominated by the ruling Georgian Dream party, overrode the veto with an 84-4 vote. The bill mandates that media and nonprofit organisations register as foreign agents if they receive more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad. Also Read | Brazil's Gol Airlines begins talks with rival Azul to explore opportunities Critics argue that the legislation mirrors restrictive measures in Russia and jeopardises Georgia's aspirations to join the European Union. Zourabichvili has warned that the bill endangers Georgia's future and hinders "the path towards becoming a full member of the free and democratic world." ◾ @GeorgianDream41 MP Irma Zavradashvili poured water on Giorgi Vashadze in @Geoparliament. ◾"This is the way of traitors who have reached savagery" - @vashadze_giorgi responded to Zavradashvili's behavior 2023, @Transparency_GE about Zavradashvili: 📌https://t.co/xJOpQCpg1e pic.twitter.com/weQgQenF2L — ბათუმელები • Batumelebi.ge (@Batumelebi_ge) May 28, 2024 × Following the veto override, the president has five days to sign the bill into law, or the parliament speaker will do so. Outside the parliament, opponents of the bill rallied, chanting "Slaves!" and later marched past Georgian Dream headquarters. Also Read | US judge rejects Amazon's bid to dismiss FTC lawsuit over Prime enrolments The government defended the bill as necessary to protect the nation from harmful foreign influences. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze reportedly argued that the law would bolster Georgia's EU membership prospects, stating, "The law on transparency will create better grounds for ensuring the membership of Georgia in the EU." US condemns foreign influence bill The EU's foreign policy arm and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken have both criticised the law. Blinken announced travel sanctions against Georgian officials. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine should be allowed to hit sites in Russia: Macron, Scholz × Protests in Tbilisi have continued, with demonstrators clashing with police, who have resorted to tear gas and water cannons. Tensions between Russia and Georgia have simmered since a brief war in 2008. The status of the breakaway province of South Ossetia remains a contentious issue. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Water thrown on Georgian leader during fiery Parliamentary debate on foreign influence law

A scuffle broke out in Taiwan's Parliament today while it was over chamber reforms. The chaos is representative of what is awaiting the next president of Taiwan.

Scuffle breaks out inside Taiwan's parliament

Kuwait's Emir has dissolved the parliament for up to 4 years. Analysts fear that this move can threaten the country's unique semi-democratic political system.

Is Kuwait moving towards autocracy?

Scottish National Party (SNP) veteran John Swinney has emerged as the clear frontrunner to become Scotland’s next leader after a potential opponent rules herself out of the contest and backs him. Watch in for more details!

UK: John Swinney to run unopposed from SNP, will he secure majority in Parliament?

The European Parliament has given a nod to easier green requirements for farmers linked to subsidies with this the lawmakers hope to placate the protesting farmers across Europe. If the member countries vote in favour of the policy in May then the changes will become into Force by June.

EU parliament nod to relax green norms

The UK government heads for a showdown with peers over its law to send asylum seekers to Africa. Watch to know more.

UK: Rwanda bill showdown in Parliament, House of lords blocks govt's Rwanda's plan

The Maldives is set to hold Parliamentary elections on April 21st and the polls have shaped up to be a crucial referendum on President Mohammad Muizzu tenure. Muizzu assumed charge in November last year and he and his policies are both facing a litmus test. Watch in for more details!

Maldives Parliamentary Elections: President Muizzu & his policies facing a litmus test

Watch Headlines of the hour: - US house passes $95 billion aid bill - Kyiv praises, Moscow condemns aid move - Tel Aviv: Protests grow against Netanyahu - Israel to summon Pro-Palestine envoys

Maldives Elections 2024: Voting underway | US House passes $95 billion aid bill

Maldives Elections 2024: Why Parliamentary majority is crucial for Muizzu?

An Australian Court confirmed that a parliament staffer raped his colleague inside the country's Parliament. Court's confirmation comes 3 years after the allegations were first made.

Lehrmann's defamation case: Judge finds staffer raped colleague inside Australian parliament

In the Georgian parliament on Monday (April 15), lawmakers started a fist fight because the ruling party wanted to pass a controversial bill about "foreign agents." This bill has upset Western countries and triggered protests at home. A video on Georgian TV showed Mamuka Mdinaradze, a leader of the ruling party, getting punched by an opposition member while speaking in parliament.

The incident led to a bigger fight involving multiple lawmakers, which sometimes happens in Georgia's&nbsp;parliament. Video showed Elisashvili being cheered by protesters outside the parliament building.

Earlier this month, Georgian Dream announced it would bring back a law that makes organisations receiving foreign funds register as foreign agents or pay fines. This decision comes 13 months after protests made them abandon the idea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-says-russian-troops-killed-citizen-in-first-fatal-incident-since-2008-war-655882">Also read |&nbsp;Georgia says Russian troops killed citizen in first fatal incident since 2008 war</a>

The bill has caused tension with European nations and the United States, who have expressed their opposition to its approval. The European Union, which granted Georgia candidate status in December, has stated that this action goes against the values of the bloc.

Watch the video here:

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A fight broke out in the Georgian parliament during the first day of discussion of the bill on “foreign agents.” 
 
Member of the Georgian Parliament from the opposition Citizens party Alexander Elisashvili got into a fight with the executive secretary of the ruling Georgian Dream… <a href="https://t.co/dzjd1SdrAC">pic.twitter.com/dzjd1SdrAC</a>
— Ignorance, the root and stem of all evil (@ivan_8848) <a href="https://twitter.com/ivan_8848/status/1779831864842182847?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>What's the&nbsp;Georgian Dream?</h2>

Georgian Dream claims it aims for the country to become a member of both the EU and NATO, despite strengthening relations with Russia and facing allegations of authoritarianism domestically. The party argues that the bill is essential to counter what it sees as "pseudo-liberal values" imposed by foreigners and to enhance transparency.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-denies-trumps-bid-to-dismiss-georgia-election-subversion-case-707874">Also read |&nbsp;Judge denies Trump's bid to dismiss Georgia election subversion case</a>

Georgia's government announced that Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze met with ambassadors from the EU, UK, and US on Monday to discuss the bill. In a statement, Kobakhidze defended the proposed law as a means to enhance accountability and expressed confusion over why Western nations were against it.

Critics within Georgia have dubbed the bill "the Russian law," likening it to legislation employed by the Kremlin to suppress dissent in Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the Georgian parliament on Monday (April 15), lawmakers started a fist fight because the ruling party wanted to pass a controversial bill about "foreign agents.

In the Georgian parliament on Monday (April 15), lawmakers started a fist fight because the ruling party wanted to pass a controversial bill about "foreign agents." This bill has upset Western countries and triggered protests at home. A video on Georgian TV showed Mamuka Mdinaradze, a leader of the ruling party, getting punched by an opposition member while speaking in parliament. The incident led to a bigger fight involving multiple lawmakers, which sometimes happens in Georgia's parliament. Video showed Elisashvili being cheered by protesters outside the parliament building. Earlier this month, Georgian Dream announced it would bring back a law that makes organisations receiving foreign funds register as foreign agents or pay fines. This decision comes 13 months after protests made them abandon the idea. Also read | Georgia says Russian troops killed citizen in first fatal incident since 2008 war The bill has caused tension with European nations and the United States, who have expressed their opposition to its approval. The European Union, which granted Georgia candidate status in December, has stated that this action goes against the values of the bloc. Watch the video here: A fight broke out in the Georgian parliament during the first day of discussion of the bill on “foreign agents.” Member of the Georgian Parliament from the opposition Citizens party Alexander Elisashvili got into a fight with the executive secretary of the ruling Georgian Dream… pic.twitter.com/dzjd1SdrAC — Ignorance, the root and stem of all evil (@ivan_8848) April 15, 2024 × What's the Georgian Dream? Georgian Dream claims it aims for the country to become a member of both the EU and NATO, despite strengthening relations with Russia and facing allegations of authoritarianism domestically. The party argues that the bill is essential to counter what it sees as "pseudo-liberal values" imposed by foreigners and to enhance transparency. Also read | Judge denies Trump's bid to dismiss Georgia election subversion case Georgia's government announced that Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze met with ambassadors from the EU, UK, and US on Monday to discuss the bill. In a statement, Kobakhidze defended the proposed law as a means to enhance accountability and expressed confusion over why Western nations were against it. Critics within Georgia have dubbed the bill "the Russian law," likening it to legislation employed by the Kremlin to suppress dissent in Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Politicians fight in Georgian parliament over ‘foreign agent’ bill

Norway's Parliament reportedly has received a bomb threat prompting the police to tighten security around the building. They've blocked off the nearby streets as well as the public audience attending deliberations inside the building has now been asked to leave.

Norway parliament receives bomb threat

Two women were arrested outside the state parliament of the Australian state of Victoria in Melbourne after a women’s rights rally turned violent. This comes as the #WomenWillSpeak demonstration took place outside the Parliament House on Saturday (Mar 23) afternoon.&nbsp;

<h2>Clashes erupt at #WomenWillSpeak rally</h2>

The #WomenWillSpeak rally was met with a counter-protest by pro-trans rights activists, reported the Australian Broadcast Company (ABC), who were separated by a large police presence.

According to the police, around 100 people were attending the rally. The Herald Sun, an Australian tabloid, said that its photographer was injured and pepper sprayed after a scuffle broke out.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/low-life-putin-trying-to-shift-blame-zelensky-condemns-russia-for-linking-moscow-attack-to-ukraine-703602">‘Low-life Putin trying to shift blame’: Zelensky condemns Russia for linking Moscow attack to Ukraine</a>

The videos on social media show at least two protesters being tackled to the ground before the police used the OC spray. The Victorian police said that they have arrested two women in their 20s and are expected to be charged on summons.

Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video.

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Now: Police have deployed capsicum spray and pinned trans rights activists at a protest outside parliament. 
 
In the process, a news photographer has been pushed to the ground and been capsicum sprayed. <a href="https://t.co/Gh5x7jJVUZ">pic.twitter.com/Gh5x7jJVUZ</a>
— Mitch Clarke (@96mitchclarke) <a href="https://twitter.com/96mitchclarke/status/1771355350807310760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In a statement, on Saturday afternoon, the police said that they were “disappointed at the behaviour of many” of those who attended the rally.&nbsp;

<h2>Police under fire for using pepper spray</h2>

According to the police, they were forced to use pepper spray after law enforcement personnel were “confronted by hostile members of the crowd who acted out violently towards police” and members of the group attempted to breach the police line.

The police are also reviewing the footage from the rally to “identify any further offending”.&nbsp;

Melbourne Activist Legal Support (MALS) which had sent a team of seven legal observers to the rally raised concerns about what they called “dangerous crowd control tactics” by the police, including the use of OC spray and police horses in “crowded conditions”.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-19-palestinians-killed-by-idf-while-waiting-for-aid-israel-denies-703632">Gaza war: 19 Palestinians ‘killed by IDF’ while waiting for aid; Israel denies claims</a>

“Any loss of control of a horse in crowds, even briefly, can have potentially fatal consequences,” said MALS legal observer Sam Mills, as quoted by ABC News.&nbsp;

“MALS has repeatedly called for any use of horses by Victoria Police at protests to be immediately prohibited.”&nbsp;

The organisation said that it has raised similar concerns in the past about “biased and discriminatory policing” at women’s rights events, including that which was headlined by British activist Kellie-Jay Keen or&nbsp;Posie Parker.

At the time, the protest was gatecrashed by neo-Nazis, who performed the Sieg Heil salute on the front steps of parliament.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Two women were arrested outside the state parliament of the Australian state of Victoria in Melbourne after a women’s rights rally turned violent. This comes as the #WomenWillSpeak demonstration took place outside the Parliament House on Saturday (Mar 23) afternoon.

Two women were arrested outside the state parliament of the Australian state of Victoria in Melbourne after a women’s rights rally turned violent. This comes as the #WomenWillSpeak demonstration took place outside the Parliament House on Saturday (Mar 23) afternoon. Clashes erupt at #WomenWillSpeak rally The #WomenWillSpeak rally was met with a counter-protest by pro-trans rights activists, reported the Australian Broadcast Company (ABC), who were separated by a large police presence. According to the police, around 100 people were attending the rally. The Herald Sun, an Australian tabloid, said that its photographer was injured and pepper sprayed after a scuffle broke out. Also Read | ‘Low-life Putin trying to shift blame’: Zelensky condemns Russia for linking Moscow attack to Ukraine The videos on social media show at least two protesters being tackled to the ground before the police used the OC spray. The Victorian police said that they have arrested two women in their 20s and are expected to be charged on summons. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video. Now: Police have deployed capsicum spray and pinned trans rights activists at a protest outside parliament. In the process, a news photographer has been pushed to the ground and been capsicum sprayed. pic.twitter.com/Gh5x7jJVUZ — Mitch Clarke (@96mitchclarke) March 23, 2024 × In a statement, on Saturday afternoon, the police said that they were “disappointed at the behaviour of many” of those who attended the rally. Police under fire for using pepper spray According to the police, they were forced to use pepper spray after law enforcement personnel were “confronted by hostile members of the crowd who acted out violently towards police” and members of the group attempted to breach the police line. The police are also reviewing the footage from the rally to “identify any further offending”. Melbourne Activist Legal Support (MALS) which had sent a team of seven legal observers to the rally raised concerns about what they called “dangerous crowd control tactics” by the police, including the use of OC spray and police horses in “crowded conditions”. Also Read | Gaza war: 19 Palestinians ‘killed by IDF’ while waiting for aid; Israel denies claims “Any loss of control of a horse in crowds, even briefly, can have potentially fatal consequences,” said MALS legal observer Sam Mills, as quoted by ABC News. “MALS has repeatedly called for any use of horses by Victoria Police at protests to be immediately prohibited.” The organisation said that it has raised similar concerns in the past about “biased and discriminatory policing” at women’s rights events, including that which was headlined by British activist Kellie-Jay Keen or Posie Parker. At the time, the protest was gatecrashed by neo-Nazis, who performed the Sieg Heil salute on the front steps of parliament. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Two arrested after protest outside Victoria parliament; police under fire for using pepper spray

Singapore's Leader of opposition, Pritam Singh, was charged with lying under oath to a parliamentary committee. Singh, 47, the secretary-general of the Workers’ Party (WP), is accused of falsely testifying at the Committee of privileges hearings involving former Member of Parliament Raeesah Khan.

Singapore's opposition leader charged with lying to parliament

Pritam Singh, the Leader of Opposition in Singapore was charged with perjury before a parliamentary committee on Tuesday (March 19).

Singh, who is of Indian descent and serves as the Secretary-General of the Workers’ Party (WP), stands accused of providing false testimony during hearings by the Committee of Privileges concerning former Member of Parliament Raeesah Khan.

Appearing in court without legal representation, the 47-year-old opposition figure pleaded not guilty to two charges under Section 31(q) of the Parliament (Privileges, Immunities, and Powers) Act, opting for a trial.

If convicted, he faces a possible imprisonment term of up to three years or a fine of up to SGD 7,000 per charge.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-man-kills-wife-a-week-after-reaching-canada-calls-family-to-inform-701905">Indian man kills wife a week after reaching Canada, calls family to inform</a>

Seeking a four-week adjournment to secure legal counsel, a pre-trial conference is slated for April 17, as per media reports.

According to the charges, Singh allegedly provided false testimony on December 10, 2021, stating that after a meeting with fellow WP members Khan, Sylvia Lim, and Faisal Manap on August 8, 2021, he urged Khan to retract her statements made to MPs on August 3, 2021.

He is further accused of providing false testimony on December 10 and December 15, 2021, claiming that during a conversation with Khan on October 3, 2021, he encouraged her to confess to lying in Parliament.

Khan's case emerged in 2021 when she admitted to fabricating information in Parliament regarding a mishandled rape case involving the police.

After a series of hearings, the Committee of Privileges recommended that Singh be referred to the public prosecutor for potential criminal proceedings due to his conduct during the hearings.

Singh contested the committee's findings, criticising what he perceived as political bias in the report.

During a parliamentary debate on the committee's final report, Singh asserted that he never instructed Khan to conceal the truth and refuted allegations of his involvement in guiding Khan's actions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leader-shashi-tharoor-slams-communist-party-says-it-is-playing-bjps-game-in-thiruvananthapuram-701943">Congress leader Shashi Tharoor slams communist party, says it is playing BJP's game in Thiruvananthapuram</a>

Following the release of the final report, the WP expressed serious concerns regarding the recommendation to refer Singh and WP vice-chair Muhamad Faisal Abdul Manap for possible prosecution.

The committee's report concluded that Singh played a central role in directing Khan's actions, suggesting that he may have been instrumental in perpetuating her false statements. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Pritam Singh, the Leader of Opposition in Singapore was charged with perjury before a parliamentary committee on Tuesday (March 19). Singh, who is of Indian descent and serves as the Secretary-General of the Workers’ Party (WP), stands accused of providing false testimony during hearings by the Committee of Privileges concerning former Member of Parliament Raeesah Khan.

Pritam Singh, the Leader of Opposition in Singapore was charged with perjury before a parliamentary committee on Tuesday (March 19). Singh, who is of Indian descent and serves as the Secretary-General of the Workers’ Party (WP), stands accused of providing false testimony during hearings by the Committee of Privileges concerning former Member of Parliament Raeesah Khan. Appearing in court without legal representation, the 47-year-old opposition figure pleaded not guilty to two charges under Section 31(q) of the Parliament (Privileges, Immunities, and Powers) Act, opting for a trial. If convicted, he faces a possible imprisonment term of up to three years or a fine of up to SGD 7,000 per charge. Also read: Indian man kills wife a week after reaching Canada, calls family to inform Seeking a four-week adjournment to secure legal counsel, a pre-trial conference is slated for April 17, as per media reports. According to the charges, Singh allegedly provided false testimony on December 10, 2021, stating that after a meeting with fellow WP members Khan, Sylvia Lim, and Faisal Manap on August 8, 2021, he urged Khan to retract her statements made to MPs on August 3, 2021. He is further accused of providing false testimony on December 10 and December 15, 2021, claiming that during a conversation with Khan on October 3, 2021, he encouraged her to confess to lying in Parliament. Khan's case emerged in 2021 when she admitted to fabricating information in Parliament regarding a mishandled rape case involving the police. After a series of hearings, the Committee of Privileges recommended that Singh be referred to the public prosecutor for potential criminal proceedings due to his conduct during the hearings. Singh contested the committee's findings, criticising what he perceived as political bias in the report. During a parliamentary debate on the committee's final report, Singh asserted that he never instructed Khan to conceal the truth and refuted allegations of his involvement in guiding Khan's actions. Also read: Congress leader Shashi Tharoor slams communist party, says it is playing BJP's game in Thiruvananthapuram Following the release of the final report, the WP expressed serious concerns regarding the recommendation to refer Singh and WP vice-chair Muhamad Faisal Abdul Manap for possible prosecution. The committee's report concluded that Singh played a central role in directing Khan's actions, suggesting that he may have been instrumental in perpetuating her false statements. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore’s Indian-origin opposition leader Pritam Singh faces charges of misleading parliament

The Greek Parliament has narrowly passed the controversial education Reform Bill despite opposition by the students. the bill will allow foreign universities to set up branches in the country. watch to know more!

Greek Parliament approves private Foreign Universities Bill amid student protests

Greek Parliament approves 'Foreign Universities Bill' despite student protests

Ghana’s parliament, on Wednesday (Feb 28), passed a controversial bill to severely restrict LGBTQ rights in the country a week after it rejected a proposal to water down some of its measures including non-custodial sentences such as counselling for gay sex instead of jail terms.

Ghana’s parliament passes bill to expand crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights

Danish Parliament Speaker Soren Gade Jensen, currently on a visit to India, extolled the democratic values shared between Denmark and India. In an interview with our diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal, Jensen emphasized the significance of India's democratic stature, stating, "Denmark and India, Europe and India because we share the same values, we are democracies." He further underscored India's democratic prowess, highlighting, "I think it's amazing that nearly a billion people they can have a vote in India...I think India sets an example for many developing countries to show that it is possible to have a democracy."

Danish Parliament speaker hails India's democratic stature

China has set the 2024 growth target for the economy at around 5%, which is not an easy task, Premier Li Qiang said on Tuesday (March 5).

China's annual Parliament meet: China sets 5% GDP growth target for 2024

George Galloway, known for his condemnation of the ongoing Gaza war and harsh comments against Israel, has secured a victory in the UK's Rochdale by-election, marking his return to Westminster. In the crucial elections, Galloway from Workers’ Party of Britain, clinched 12,335 votes, representing a 37.6 percent turnout in Rochdale.

The pro-Palestinian leader's support by Labour party was withdrawn after he made controversial remarks against Israel. Galloway secured a substantial lead of almost 6,000 votes, signaling what he described as the start of a grassroots "movement".

The by-election, triggered by the passing of former Labour MP Sir Tony Lloyd, offered Galloway his fourth term in parliament and a platform to challenge Labour's position on the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sorry-for-the-trouble-japan-mayor-resigns-after-probe-identifies-99-acts-of-sexual-harassment-695519">'Sorry for the trouble': Japan mayor resigns after probe identifies 99 acts of sexual harassment</a>

In his victory speech, Galloway directed a message to Keir Starmer, stating, "Keir Starmer, this is for Gaza."&nbsp;“You have paid and you will pay a high price for the role you have played . . . covering for the catastrophe presently going on in occupied Palestine," he said adding, "Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak are two cheeks of the same backside and they both got well and truly spanked tonight here in Rochdale."&nbsp;

<h2>Labour party's controversial candidate&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Labour's initially selected candidate Azhar Ali also faced controversy over remarks regarding Israel's actions in Gaza. According to him, the Jewish nation wanted to invade Gaza and in order to achieve that objective the country allowed Hamas militant group to attack Israel on the fateful day of October 7 last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-is-making-robotic-dogs-which-can-shoot-heres-what-it-means-in-a-warring-world-695516">China is making robotic dogs which can shoot. Here's what it means in a warring world</a>

This controversy prompted Labour to retract its support for Ali.

“We understand that these are highly unusual circumstances, but it is vital that any candidate put forward by Labour fully represents its aims and values,” the party said in a statement.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/texas-smokehouse-creek-fire-rages-on-695511">Texas' smokehouse creek fire rages on</a>

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However, he continued to remain on the ballot because by the time nominations had closed. Ali garnered only 2,402 votes, finishing fourth.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

George Galloway, known for his condemnation of the ongoing Gaza war and harsh comments against Israel, has secured a victory in the UK's Rochdale by-election, marking his return to Westminster.

George Galloway, known for his condemnation of the ongoing Gaza war and harsh comments against Israel, has secured a victory in the UK's Rochdale by-election, marking his return to Westminster. In the crucial elections, Galloway from Workers’ Party of Britain, clinched 12,335 votes, representing a 37.6 percent turnout in Rochdale. The pro-Palestinian leader's support by Labour party was withdrawn after he made controversial remarks against Israel. Galloway secured a substantial lead of almost 6,000 votes, signaling what he described as the start of a grassroots "movement". The by-election, triggered by the passing of former Labour MP Sir Tony Lloyd, offered Galloway his fourth term in parliament and a platform to challenge Labour's position on the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Also Read | 'Sorry for the trouble': Japan mayor resigns after probe identifies 99 acts of sexual harassment In his victory speech, Galloway directed a message to Keir Starmer, stating, "Keir Starmer, this is for Gaza." “You have paid and you will pay a high price for the role you have played . . . covering for the catastrophe presently going on in occupied Palestine," he said adding, "Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak are two cheeks of the same backside and they both got well and truly spanked tonight here in Rochdale." Labour party's controversial candidate Labour's initially selected candidate Azhar Ali also faced controversy over remarks regarding Israel's actions in Gaza. According to him, the Jewish nation wanted to invade Gaza and in order to achieve that objective the country allowed Hamas militant group to attack Israel on the fateful day of October 7 last year. Also Read | China is making robotic dogs which can shoot. Here's what it means in a warring world This controversy prompted Labour to retract its support for Ali. “We understand that these are highly unusual circumstances, but it is vital that any candidate put forward by Labour fully represents its aims and values,” the party said in a statement. Watch | Texas' smokehouse creek fire rages on × However, he continued to remain on the ballot because by the time nominations had closed. Ali garnered only 2,402 votes, finishing fourth. (With inputs from agencies)

'This is for Gaza': Pro-Palestinian George Galloway after winning UK's Rochdale by-election

Four Armenian soldiers were killed and another wounded by Azerbaijani fire along the two countries' heavily militarized border on the 13th of February. Baku claimed that the attack on the Armenian position was in retaliation to an Armenian provocation a day earlier in which one Azerbaijani soldier was wounded. Tuesday's flare-up in violence was the first since the Caucasus' arch-foes began negotiating a deal last year to end more than three decades of intermittent war. A couple of days after the border skirmish, Armenian Prime Minister, Nikol Pashinyan, warned that Azerbaijan is planning a full-scale war against Armenia. Both nations have professed an interest in signing a peace treaty but continue to disagree over issues including precise demarcation of their border and control over several small territorial enclaves. Mohammed Saleh brings you the details.

Is Azerbaijan planning a full-scale war against Armenia?

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