The UK is nearly as divided between the political Right and Left as the US, according to a new study. The Government’s former counter-extremism tsar found the UK had the highest levels of polarisation between the two groups outside the US. Watch for more details!

UK: Report Finds Growing Distrust In Society Amid Record Polarisation | World DNA | WION

Amid Syria's civil war that resulted in the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad, Germany has suspended its decisions on asylum requests from Syrians on Monday, December 9, the interior minister said.

Germany is home to Europe’s largest diaspora from the country after taking in nearly one million Syrians during 2015-16 under former chancellor Angela Merkel.

“The end of the brutal tyranny of the Syrian dictator Assad is a great relief for many people who have suffered from torture, murder and terror,” Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said in a statement.

However, “the situation in Syria is currently very unclear,” she cautioned.&nbsp;

The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees has paused the decisions for asylum procedures that are ongoing until the situation becomes clearer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-conflict-us-nsa-sullivan-to-visit-israel-for-talks-on-syria-as-rebels-take-over-updates-782755">Syrian conflict: US NSA Sullivan to visit Israel for talks on Syria as rebels take over- Updates</a>

According to the interior ministry, 974,136 Syrian nationals were living in Germany. While 5,090 of these were acknowledged as eligible for asylum, 321,444 were granted the status of refugee, and 329,242 were given subsidiary protection, a temporary stay of deportation. Tens of thousands of other cases remain pending.

<h2>EU 'not currently engaging' with Syrian rebels</h2>

The European Union said on Monday&nbsp;that it is not in contact with the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which overthrew the rule of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad. The EU has also urged for a peaceful political transition in the country.

Although HTS broke ties with Al-Qaeda in 2016, the group and its leader, Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, remain under EU sanctions.

“The European Union is not currently engaging with HTS or its leaders, full stop,” EU spokesman Anouar El Anouni said.&nbsp;

“As HTS takes on greater responsibilities, we will need to assess not just their words but also their actions.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-alawites-assads-community-who-dominated-syria-despite-being-a-minority-782702">Who are the Alawites, Assad's community, who dominated Syria despite being a minority</a>

<h2>UK will 'quickly' decide on terror status of HTS&nbsp;</h2>

The UK will “quickly” decide whether to remove the Islamist group HTS from the list of terrorist organisations, Pat McFadden, Minister for Intergovernmental Relations of the United Kingdom, said on Monday, December 9.

The group is classified as a terror group in the UK and the United States.

“If the situation stabilises, there'll be a decision to make about how to deal with whatever new regime is in place there,” he told BBC Radio 4.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Amid Syria's civil war that resulted in the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad, Germany has suspended its decisions on asylum requests from Syrians on Monday, December 9, the interior minister said.

Amid Syria's civil war that resulted in the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad, Germany has suspended its decisions on asylum requests from Syrians on Monday, December 9, the interior minister said. Germany is home to Europe’s largest diaspora from the country after taking in nearly one million Syrians during 2015-16 under former chancellor Angela Merkel. “The end of the brutal tyranny of the Syrian dictator Assad is a great relief for many people who have suffered from torture, murder and terror,” Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said in a statement. However, “the situation in Syria is currently very unclear,” she cautioned. The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees has paused the decisions for asylum procedures that are ongoing until the situation becomes clearer. Also read | Syrian conflict: US NSA Sullivan to visit Israel for talks on Syria as rebels take over- Updates According to the interior ministry, 974,136 Syrian nationals were living in Germany. While 5,090 of these were acknowledged as eligible for asylum, 321,444 were granted the status of refugee, and 329,242 were given subsidiary protection, a temporary stay of deportation. Tens of thousands of other cases remain pending. EU 'not currently engaging' with Syrian rebels The European Union said on Monday that it is not in contact with the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which overthrew the rule of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad. The EU has also urged for a peaceful political transition in the country. Although HTS broke ties with Al-Qaeda in 2016, the group and its leader, Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, remain under EU sanctions. “The European Union is not currently engaging with HTS or its leaders, full stop,” EU spokesman Anouar El Anouni said. “As HTS takes on greater responsibilities, we will need to assess not just their words but also their actions.” Also read | Who are the Alawites, Assad's community, who dominated Syria despite being a minority UK will 'quickly' decide on terror status of HTS The UK will “quickly” decide whether to remove the Islamist group HTS from the list of terrorist organisations, Pat McFadden, Minister for Intergovernmental Relations of the United Kingdom, said on Monday, December 9. The group is classified as a terror group in the UK and the United States. “If the situation stabilises, there'll be a decision to make about how to deal with whatever new regime is in place there,” he told BBC Radio 4. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Germany freezes Syrian asylum decisions; EU not engaging with rebel group HTS after Assad ouster

The United States and Britain have launched a new round of sanctions aimed at disrupting the illicit gold trade, which, as per the United Kingdom, is allegedly funding Russian President Vladimir Putin's military operations in Ukraine and backing corruption.&nbsp;

The UK government imposed asset freezes on four people that it said were accused of involvement in illicit Russian gold trade.

"Illicit gold is an assault on the legitimate trade of a valuable commodity, fuelling corruption, undermining the rule of law, and entrenching human rights abuses such as child labour," the British Foreign Office said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100k-victims-50-nations-1mn-daily-revenue-russia-raids-massive-scam-centre-watch-video-782877">100k victims; 50 nations, $1mn daily revenue: Russia raids massive scam centre</a>

"Russia uses the illicit gold trade to launder money and evade sanctions, in doing so bolstering Putin's war efforts."

Last week, Britain and the United States joined forces to disrupt a massive global money laundering network used by wealthy Russians to evade sanctions.&nbsp;

The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on 28 individuals and businesses allegedly involved in a global gold smuggling and money laundering network based in Zimbabwe.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-islamist-rebel-leader-vows-to-hold-accountable-former-officials-for-war-crimes-782919">Syria Islamist rebel leader vows to hold accountable former officials for war crimes</a>

The network, which is led by Kamlesh Pattni, is accused of bribing officials, hiding ownership through trusted supporters, and creating a complex web of businesses to conceal illicit activities, said the US Treasury Department in a statement.

“Across the globe, when corrupt actors like Pattni choose to exploit openings in governance structures to benefit themselves and their cronies, communities suffer and public trust is undermined,” said Bradley T. Smith, Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence.&nbsp;

“Corruption respects no borders and its consequences are felt worldwide. As we mark International Anti-Corruption Day, the United States reaffirms our commitment to use all available tools to hold these individuals to account for their schemes.”&nbsp;

The UK also designated Pattni on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States and Britain have launched a new round of sanctions aimed at disrupting the illicit gold trade, which, as per the United Kingdom, is allegedly funding Russian President Vladimir Putin's military operations in Ukraine and backing corruption.

The United States and Britain have launched a new round of sanctions aimed at disrupting the illicit gold trade, which, as per the United Kingdom, is allegedly funding Russian President Vladimir Putin's military operations in Ukraine and backing corruption. The UK government imposed asset freezes on four people that it said were accused of involvement in illicit Russian gold trade. "Illicit gold is an assault on the legitimate trade of a valuable commodity, fuelling corruption, undermining the rule of law, and entrenching human rights abuses such as child labour," the British Foreign Office said in a statement. Also read: 100k victims; 50 nations, $1mn daily revenue: Russia raids massive scam centre "Russia uses the illicit gold trade to launder money and evade sanctions, in doing so bolstering Putin's war efforts." Last week, Britain and the United States joined forces to disrupt a massive global money laundering network used by wealthy Russians to evade sanctions. The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on 28 individuals and businesses allegedly involved in a global gold smuggling and money laundering network based in Zimbabwe. Also read: Syria Islamist rebel leader vows to hold accountable former officials for war crimes The network, which is led by Kamlesh Pattni, is accused of bribing officials, hiding ownership through trusted supporters, and creating a complex web of businesses to conceal illicit activities, said the US Treasury Department in a statement. “Across the globe, when corrupt actors like Pattni choose to exploit openings in governance structures to benefit themselves and their cronies, communities suffer and public trust is undermined,” said Bradley T. Smith, Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. “Corruption respects no borders and its consequences are felt worldwide. As we mark International Anti-Corruption Day, the United States reaffirms our commitment to use all available tools to hold these individuals to account for their schemes.” The UK also designated Pattni on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

UK, US announce sanctions aimed at disrupting illicit gold trade

Record Polarisation Hurting the UK | GRAVITAS

The husband of former home secretary Suella Braverman has left the Conservative Party to join Reform UK. Mr Braverman is set to become a senior campaigner for Nigel Farage’s party.

Suella Braverman's Future in Doubt as Husband Rael Defects

Demand for workers in Britain collapsed last month after the new Labour government's first budget, a survey published on Monday showed, adding to other signs of the impact of the tax increases on employers.

Hiring Demand in Britain Hits Lowest Since 2020, REC Survey Shows

Storm Darragh brought high winds and severe weather to Britain's West Coast...About 57,000 homes and businesses are still without power across wales after storm Darragh battered large parts of the country. Watch in for more details!

Storm Darragh Brings Severe Weather To UK

A man died and hundreds of thousands of people in Britain and Ireland were left without power Saturday as high winds and heavy rain battered the region. Watch for more details!

One Dead As Storm Darragh Batters UK & Ireland

Ever since coming to power, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's term has been marked by multiple challenges. Starmer has been in office for just five months, and yesterday he spoke about a plan for change. Many see the Labour leader's speech as an attempt to relaunch his government. Watch in for more details!

UK PM Reveals Plans In Address Aimed At 'Relaunching Govt'

Nigel Farage’s Reform UK has emerged as a significant challenger, securing second place behind the Conservatives in recent polling results. Party chairman Zia Yusuf expressed confidence that Reform UK is on track to win the next general election. The party has made a notable breakthrough by surpassing Labour in a national opinion poll for the first time, pushing Sir Keir Starmer’s party into third position. This development marks a major shift in the political landscape, reflecting growing support for Reform UK. Watch to know more!

UK: Labour Drop To Third Place In Shock New Poll As Support Plummets | World News | WION

The intelligence partners of the "Five Eyes" have warned about the radicalisation of young people online, the news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (Dec 5) citing a research paper from the alliance. The Five Eyes, which includes the United States, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, said in the paper that mental health, education, and social services needed to intervene in many cases before the behaviour of minors became a police issue. Watch in for more details!

'Five Eyes' Intelligence Partners Warn Over Terrorist Radicalisation Of Youth

The UK’s health services are struggling to cope with unprecedented pressure as the NHS grapples with a record number of flu cases. The surge in infections has led to overcrowded hospitals and increased concerns over the healthcare system's ability to manage the crisis.

UK Health Services Strained as NHS Faces Record Flu Surge

A minister in the United Kingdom has issued a startling warning, Alistair Carns said that the country's army could be wiped out in as little as six months if it were forced to fight a war on the scale of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Watch in for more details!

UK Minister Predicts Country's Plight In Case Of Ukraine-Scale War

Sir Keir Starmer is poised to unveil Labour’s "plan for change," aiming to refocus his leadership and address public dissatisfaction following a challenging initial five months in office, marked by criticism over budget proposals. Watch to know more!

Keir Starmer Outlines His 'Plan For Change' Focusing On Schools, NHS And Efficiency | Race To Power

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the PSLV-C59/PROBA-3 mission on Thursday. Originally scheduled for launch on Wednesday, December 4, the mission was postponed due to an anomaly detected in the spacecraft. Following rectifications, the mission proceeded smoothly, further demonstrating ISRO's robust problem-solving capabilities and commitment to mission safety and success. Watch to know more!

Isro Rocket Successfully Places Europe's Proba-3 Into Orbit | World News | WION

ISRO's PSLV rocket is scheduled to launch the European Space Agency's PROBA-3 satellite, designed for precise formation flying. The satellite is expected to be placed into orbit just 18 minutes after liftoff, marking a significant milestone for both ISRO and international space collaboration.

ISRO PSLV-XL Proba-3 Launch: Europe's Solar Mission To Lift-Off Today | World News | WION

The UK government is set to include unhealthy breakfast cereals such as muesli, porridge oats, and granola in its junk food advertising ban, effective next year. The initiative aims to limit children’s exposure to foods high in fat, sugar, or salt, as part of broader efforts to combat obesity-related illnesses, including diabetes. Watch to know more!

UK Government's Restriction On Junk Food Advertisements Before 9 PM | World News | WION

UK has urged British citizens to avoid non-essential travel to certain areas of Bangladesh due to potential risk. This comes at a time when the country is witnessing a series of protests and rising violence against minorities. Thousands of protesters gathered in Dhaka to protest against an attack on Bangladeshi Consulate in the Indian state of Tripura.

UK Issues Travel Advisory For Bangladesh Amid Unrest In Bangladesh

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said that stepping up support for Ukraine is essential to put the country in the strongest position for peace talks. Starmer stressed the importance of continued Western support to Ukraine, he warned a Russian Victory in Ukraine would threaten Europe's security and stability particularly because it could embolden Russia's allies. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: British PM Says, 'Supporting Ukraine Is Deeply In Our Own Self-Interest'

US President Joe Biden issued an official pardon for his son Hunter Biden. Meanwhile, incoming president Donald Trump appointed Massad Boulos, his daughter's father-in-law, as his Middle East advisor.

Talks for a global treaty on plastic pollution stalled in Busan, South Korea, amid disagreements, pushing the negotiations to a later date.

In other news, the UK has pledged £19 million ($24 mn) in humanitarian aid for Gaza, urging Israel to allow unrestricted access for relief efforts.

Click on the headlines for more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-officially-pardons-son-hunter-says-i-hope-americans-will-understand-breaking-news-780722">Joe Biden officially pardons son Hunter, says 'I hope Americans will understand'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/02/469008-new-wion-65.jpg?imwidth=400" />

US President Joe Biden on Sunday (Dec 1) issued an official pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, who was awaiting sentencing on federal charges related to tax evasion and the illegal purchase of a firearm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-picks-daughters-father-in-law-massad-boulos-as-his-middle-east-advisor-780720">Donald Trump picks daughter's father-in-law Massad Boulos as his Middle East advisor</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/02/469007-new-wion-64.jpg?imwidth=400" />

US President-elect Donald Trump has named Massad Boulos, the father-in-law to his youngest daughter Tiffany, as his senior advisor on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. The appointment, announced Sunday (Dec 2), is the second appointment in as many days when Trump has picked a family member for a key post in the Trump 2.0 administration.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-plastic-pollution-treaty-talks-fail-to-meet-deadline-amid-deep-divisions-780727">Global plastic pollution treaty talks fail to meet deadline amid deep divisions</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/02/469011-new-wion-67.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Negotiations to establish a landmark global treaty to tackle plastic pollution have collapsed, with delegates from nearly 200 nations failing to meet a self-imposed deadline after a week of intense talks in Busan, South Korea. The negotiations, marked by stark divisions, will now continue at a later date. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pledges-24-million-in-gaza-aid-urges-israel-to-ensure-unimpeded-aid-access-780724">UK pledges $24 million in Gaza aid, urges Israel to 'ensure unimpeded aid access'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/02/469009-new-wion-66.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Britain has announced an additional £19 million ($24 million) in humanitarian support for Gaza. International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds revealed the funding on Monday (Dec 2).

Watch |&nbsp;Rebels Seize Control Of Syria's Second-Largest City: What Led To The Fall Of Aleppo?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rebels-seize-control-of-syrias-second-largest-city-what-led-to-the-fall-of-aleppo-780737/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

US President Joe Biden issued an official pardon for his son Hunter Biden. Meanwhile, incoming president Donald Trump appointed Massad Boulos, his daughter's father-in-law, as his Middle East advisor.

US President Joe Biden issued an official pardon for his son Hunter Biden. Meanwhile, incoming president Donald Trump appointed Massad Boulos, his daughter's father-in-law, as his Middle East advisor. Talks for a global treaty on plastic pollution stalled in Busan, South Korea, amid disagreements, pushing the negotiations to a later date. In other news, the UK has pledged £19 million ($24 mn) in humanitarian aid for Gaza, urging Israel to allow unrestricted access for relief efforts. Click on the headlines for more Joe Biden officially pardons son Hunter, says 'I hope Americans will understand' US President Joe Biden on Sunday (Dec 1) issued an official pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, who was awaiting sentencing on federal charges related to tax evasion and the illegal purchase of a firearm. Donald Trump picks daughter's father-in-law Massad Boulos as his Middle East advisor US President-elect Donald Trump has named Massad Boulos, the father-in-law to his youngest daughter Tiffany, as his senior advisor on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. The appointment, announced Sunday (Dec 2), is the second appointment in as many days when Trump has picked a family member for a key post in the Trump 2.0 administration. Global plastic pollution treaty talks fail to meet deadline amid deep divisions Negotiations to establish a landmark global treaty to tackle plastic pollution have collapsed, with delegates from nearly 200 nations failing to meet a self-imposed deadline after a week of intense talks in Busan, South Korea. The negotiations, marked by stark divisions, will now continue at a later date. UK pledges $24 million in Gaza aid, urges Israel to 'ensure unimpeded aid access' Britain has announced an additional £19 million ($24 million) in humanitarian support for Gaza. International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds revealed the funding on Monday (Dec 2). Watch | Rebels Seize Control Of Syria's Second-Largest City: What Led To The Fall Of Aleppo?

Morning news brief: US Prez Biden pardons son Hunter; global plastic pollution talks fail, and more

US President-elect Donald Trump has warned BRICS nations, which includes India, to commit to the US dollar or face "100%" tariffs.

Palestinian militant group Hamas has released a video showing an Israeli-American hostage pleading for Trump’s intervention in securing the release of captives in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Trump has named&nbsp;Indian-origin Kash Patel as FBI director.

Finally, air quality in the Indian capital Delhi&nbsp;remained consistently in the ‘very poor’ category in November, with an average AQI of 375.

Click on the headlines for more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-india-other-brics-nations-commit-to-us-dollar-or-face-100-tariff-780553">Trump warns India, other BRICS nations: Commit to US Dollar or face '100%' tariff</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/01/468897-new-wion-58.jpg?imwidth=400" />

US President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday (Nov 30) issued a stark warning to India and other BRICS nations, threatening them with a 100 per cent tariff if they continue to pursue other currencies to replace the US dollar for trade.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-publishes-video-of-israeli-american-hostage-pleading-for-trumps-help-in-securing-release-780558">Hamas publishes video of Israeli-American hostage pleading for Trump's help in securing release</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/01/468903-succession-2024-12-01t093152149.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Saturday (Nov 30), published a video showing an Israeli-American hostage pleading for US President-elect Donald Trump's help in securing the release of the ones held captive in Gaza.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-selects-indian-origin-kash-patel-to-head-fbi-announces-key-picks-for-dea-and-justice-department-780542">Trump selects Indian-origin Kash Patel to head FBI, announces key picks for DEA, and Justice Department</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/01/468890-new-wion-57.jpg?imwidth=400" />

US President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday (Nov 30) announced that&nbsp;loyalist Kashyap "Kash" Patel was his choice for director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The Republican leader also declared Chad Chronister as his pick for administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and confirmed Pam Bondi as his pick to lead the Department of Justice.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pollution-even-the-best-air-delhites-breathed-in-november-was-of-very-poor-category-780565">Delhi pollution: Even the best air Delhiites breathed in November was of 'very poor' category</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/01/468905-untitled-design-94.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Delhi witnessed an average AQI of 375 in the month of November, with 303 being the lowest. The air quality in the national capital remained in the ‘very poor’ or worse category throughout the month.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Gaza War: Israel Pounds Hamas Targets In Gaza

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-israel-pounds-hamas-targets-in-gaza-780559/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

US President-elect Donald Trump has warned BRICS nations, which includes India, to commit to the US dollar or face "100%" tariffs. Palestinian militant group Hamas has released a video showing an Israeli-American hostage pleading for Trump’s intervention in securing the release of captives in Gaza.

US President-elect Donald Trump has warned BRICS nations, which includes India, to commit to the US dollar or face "100%" tariffs. Palestinian militant group Hamas has released a video showing an Israeli-American hostage pleading for Trump’s intervention in securing the release of captives in Gaza. Meanwhile, Trump has named Indian-origin Kash Patel as FBI director. Finally, air quality in the Indian capital Delhi remained consistently in the ‘very poor’ category in November, with an average AQI of 375. Click on the headlines for more Trump warns India, other BRICS nations: Commit to US Dollar or face '100%' tariff US President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday (Nov 30) issued a stark warning to India and other BRICS nations, threatening them with a 100 per cent tariff if they continue to pursue other currencies to replace the US dollar for trade. Hamas publishes video of Israeli-American hostage pleading for Trump's help in securing release Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Saturday (Nov 30), published a video showing an Israeli-American hostage pleading for US President-elect Donald Trump's help in securing the release of the ones held captive in Gaza. Trump selects Indian-origin Kash Patel to head FBI, announces key picks for DEA, and Justice Department US President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday (Nov 30) announced that loyalist Kashyap "Kash" Patel was his choice for director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The Republican leader also declared Chad Chronister as his pick for administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and confirmed Pam Bondi as his pick to lead the Department of Justice. Delhi pollution: Even the best air Delhiites breathed in November was of 'very poor' category Delhi witnessed an average AQI of 375 in the month of November, with 303 being the lowest. The air quality in the national capital remained in the ‘very poor’ or worse category throughout the month. Watch | Israel-Gaza War: Israel Pounds Hamas Targets In Gaza

Morning news brief: Trump threatens BRICS nations; Hamas releases hostage video, and more

Lawmakers in Britain are debating divisive legislation on assisted dying for terminally ill patients ahead of what is expected to be a knife-edge vote of conscience. Watch in for more details!

UK Favors Assisted Dying Bill: Historic Step Towards Legalising Assisted Death In The UK

British lawmakers on Friday (Nov 29) voted in favour of the controversial assisted-dying bill for England and Wales, allowing the legislation to move to the next stage of parliamentary scrutiny.&nbsp;

UK MPs voted by 330 to 275 in support of legalised euthanasia in the first vote in the House of Commons for nearly a decade.

The vote came after a fierce debate where lawmakers were deciding whether or not to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill patients, a contentious proposal that would make the United Kingdom one of the countries to allow terminally ill people to end their lives.&nbsp;

UK parliament began a second reading of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) bill on Friday, for assessing whether mentally competent adults with an incurable illness and who have a life expectancy of less than six months should be allowed to end their lives with medical help.&nbsp;

Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, who proposed the measure, opened the debate in Westminster, saying that changing the law would give terminally ill people “choice, autonomy, and dignity at the end of their lives”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-life-bill-all-you-need-to-know-about-uks-proposed-assisted-dying-legislation-775458">Also read:&nbsp;End of Life Bill: All you need to know about UK's proposed assisted dying legislation</a>

“Let’s be clear, we’re not talking about a choice between life or death, we are talking about giving dying people a choice about how to die,” Leadbeater said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Conservative MP Danny Kruger, who is leading opposition to the bill, labelled it as “too big” and “too flawed” to pass.

Watch |&nbsp;UK: Assisted Dying Bill | What Does It Say?

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If passed, Britain will be added to the list of countries that have allowed assisted dying in some form, including Canada, New Zealand, Spain and most of Australia.&nbsp;

The Members of Parliament in the UK have been given a free vote on the issue, which means that they can support either side according to their conscience, with no political ramifications.&nbsp;

“Parliament is tearing itself in two over this,” Rachael Maskell, a Labour MP and prominent opponent of the process, told CNN, adding, “MPs are showing signs of stress, having to make this decision in such a short time frame...It’s occupying everybody’s complete thoughts.”

(With inputs from agencies)

British lawmakers on Friday (Nov 29) voted in favour of the controversial assisted-dying bill for England and Wales, allowing the legislation to move to the next stage of parliamentary scrutiny.

British lawmakers on Friday (Nov 29) voted in favour of the controversial assisted-dying bill for England and Wales, allowing the legislation to move to the next stage of parliamentary scrutiny. UK MPs voted by 330 to 275 in support of legalised euthanasia in the first vote in the House of Commons for nearly a decade. The vote came after a fierce debate where lawmakers were deciding whether or not to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill patients, a contentious proposal that would make the United Kingdom one of the countries to allow terminally ill people to end their lives. UK parliament began a second reading of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) bill on Friday, for assessing whether mentally competent adults with an incurable illness and who have a life expectancy of less than six months should be allowed to end their lives with medical help. Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, who proposed the measure, opened the debate in Westminster, saying that changing the law would give terminally ill people “choice, autonomy, and dignity at the end of their lives”. Also read: End of Life Bill: All you need to know about UK's proposed assisted dying legislation “Let’s be clear, we’re not talking about a choice between life or death, we are talking about giving dying people a choice about how to die,” Leadbeater said. Meanwhile, Conservative MP Danny Kruger, who is leading opposition to the bill, labelled it as “too big” and “too flawed” to pass. Watch | UK: Assisted Dying Bill | What Does It Say? × If passed, Britain will be added to the list of countries that have allowed assisted dying in some form, including Canada, New Zealand, Spain and most of Australia. The Members of Parliament in the UK have been given a free vote on the issue, which means that they can support either side according to their conscience, with no political ramifications. “Parliament is tearing itself in two over this,” Rachael Maskell, a Labour MP and prominent opponent of the process, told CNN, adding, “MPs are showing signs of stress, having to make this decision in such a short time frame...It’s occupying everybody’s complete thoughts.” (With inputs from agencies)

British MPs vote in favour of assisted dying bill after fierce debate

A British ticket-holder has won a £177million EuroMillions jackpot in Tuesday's draw, the National Lottery has said. The staggering win's numbers are: 07, 11, 25, 31, 40, while the Lucky Stars are 09 and 12.

British National Win Million Dollar Lottery | 3rd Biggest Lottery Win IN UK

British police have announced an investigation into associates of Mohamed al-Fayed, the late owner of Harrods, over allegations of their involvement in facilitating his alleged sexual abuse and rape of female staff members. On Wednesday, London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed that the inquiry was prompted by renewed public appeals and recent media reports, which led 90 individuals to come forward with allegations. Watch to know more!

UK Police Launch New Probe Into Associates Of Late Harrods Boss Al-Fayed | World News | WION

A UK ticket-holder has claimed a massive £177 million EuroMillions jackpot, making it the third-largest lottery win in the country's history. The winning numbers were 7, 11, 25, 31, 40, with lucky stars 9 and 12. The lottery operator, described the win as a "fantastic surprise just before Christmas," encouraging all players to check their tickets. Watch to know more!

UK Ticket-Holder Wins £177 Million In The EuroMillions Draw | World News | WION

VisitBritain's 'Destination Britain Middle East & Asia' trade mission wrapped up in India's Bengaluru, showcasing why Britain has a destination to visit. Patricia Yates, CEO, VisitBritain, talks to WION regarding the event.

UK Tourism Suppliers Meet Asia Buyers in India

Elon Musk has labelled Britain a "tyrannical police state" and emphasised on calling for a fresh general election. He also shared a documentary by a jailed far-right activist on his X account.&nbsp;

Musk, who has now become an advisor to US President-elect Donald Trump, has been spending much of the year clashing with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This comes at a time when the UK is concerned about its relations with the incoming Trump-led US administration.&nbsp;

The billionaire, in his latest series of attacks, responded to a post about a viral online petition calling for an immediate election in the UK. However, the country had elections in July when the Labour had a landslide victory.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-to-summon-british-lawmakers-to-us-because-of-this-reason-778270">Also read:&nbsp;Elon Musk to summon British lawmakers to US because of THIS reason</a>

“The people of Britain have had enough of a tyrannical police state," Musk posted on his X platform and quoted a post about the ongoing online petition.&nbsp;

The petition accuses the government of having "gone back on the promises" it made during the election.&nbsp;

On these comments, Starmer’s official spokesperson said the prime minister “looks forward to working with President Trump and .. his whole team, including Elon Musk” to develop “the special U.K.-U.S. relationship.”

Watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk To Be Summoned By UK Over X's Role In UK Riots

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Earlier in August, Musk heaped criticism on&nbsp;the UK, saying that the country was on the verge of "civil war". This happened following the right-wing riots after three young girls were killed in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party.&nbsp;

On the contrary, Starmer has been working to overcome its own past public comments and building relations with Trump. However, Musk continues to attack UK.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk has labelled Britain a "tyrannical police state" and emphasised on calling for a fresh general election. He also shared a documentary by a jailed far-right activist on his X account.

Elon Musk has labelled Britain a "tyrannical police state" and emphasised on calling for a fresh general election. He also shared a documentary by a jailed far-right activist on his X account. Musk, who has now become an advisor to US President-elect Donald Trump, has been spending much of the year clashing with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This comes at a time when the UK is concerned about its relations with the incoming Trump-led US administration. The billionaire, in his latest series of attacks, responded to a post about a viral online petition calling for an immediate election in the UK. However, the country had elections in July when the Labour had a landslide victory. Also read: Elon Musk to summon British lawmakers to US because of THIS reason “The people of Britain have had enough of a tyrannical police state," Musk posted on his X platform and quoted a post about the ongoing online petition. The petition accuses the government of having "gone back on the promises" it made during the election. On these comments, Starmer’s official spokesperson said the prime minister “looks forward to working with President Trump and .. his whole team, including Elon Musk” to develop “the special U.K.-U.S. relationship.” Watch | Elon Musk To Be Summoned By UK Over X's Role In UK Riots × Earlier in August, Musk heaped criticism on the UK, saying that the country was on the verge of "civil war". This happened following the right-wing riots after three young girls were killed in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party. On the contrary, Starmer has been working to overcome its own past public comments and building relations with Trump. However, Musk continues to attack UK. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk labels UK a 'tyrannical police state', backs calls for general election

Russia, on Tuesday (Nov 26) expelled a British diplomat after accusing him of allegedly spying as tensions between London and Moscow increased after Ukraine used British weapons to strike inside Russia.&nbsp;

Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) alleged that the British diplomat, who worked at the embassy in Moscow, intentionally provided false information to enter the country as a cover for espionage work, “thereby violating Russian law,” Russian-state media TASS reported.&nbsp;

“The Russian FSB has identified signs of intelligence and subversive work by the said diplomat that threatens the security of the Russian Federation,” TASS cited the security service as saying.&nbsp;

Following this, the Russian foreign ministry revoked the British diplomat's diplomatic accreditation and ordered him to leave the country within two weeks.&nbsp;

“This is not the first time that Russia has made malicious and baseless accusations against our staff. We will respond in due course," a British Foreign Office spokesperson said in a statement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-was-a-stupid-idea-ex-british-soldier-captured-in-russia-while-fighting-for-ukraine-report-778948">Also read:&nbsp;Ex-British soldier captured in Russia while fighting for Ukraine: Report</a>

The FSB has also claimed that the diplomat was sent to Moscow to "replace" one of six alleged British intelligence officers that Russia expelled this summer.

In August, Russia revoked the accreditation of British diplomats, alleging them of espionage. Britain, in response, labelled the accusations as "completely baseless".&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Putin's New Hypersonic Missile A Warning To Britain?

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The relations between the two nations came to a new low last week after the United Kingdom&nbsp;allowed Ukraine to use Storm Shadow missiles on targets inside Russia.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia bans entry to senior British ministers</h2>

Russia on Tuesday (Nov 26) also&nbsp;banned some of the UK's cabinet ministers from entering the nation in response to what it called London’s “Russophobic” policies.

Those ministers included Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, and Interior Minister Yvette Cooper. Additionally, more than a dozen other senior politicians in the new Labour government were also banned.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia, on Tuesday (Nov 26) expelled a British diplomat after accusing him of allegedly spying as tensions between London and Moscow increased after Ukraine used British weapons to strike inside Russia.

Russia, on Tuesday (Nov 26) expelled a British diplomat after accusing him of allegedly spying as tensions between London and Moscow increased after Ukraine used British weapons to strike inside Russia. Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) alleged that the British diplomat, who worked at the embassy in Moscow, intentionally provided false information to enter the country as a cover for espionage work, “thereby violating Russian law,” Russian-state media TASS reported. “The Russian FSB has identified signs of intelligence and subversive work by the said diplomat that threatens the security of the Russian Federation,” TASS cited the security service as saying. Following this, the Russian foreign ministry revoked the British diplomat's diplomatic accreditation and ordered him to leave the country within two weeks. “This is not the first time that Russia has made malicious and baseless accusations against our staff. We will respond in due course," a British Foreign Office spokesperson said in a statement. Also read: Ex-British soldier captured in Russia while fighting for Ukraine: Report The FSB has also claimed that the diplomat was sent to Moscow to "replace" one of six alleged British intelligence officers that Russia expelled this summer. In August, Russia revoked the accreditation of British diplomats, alleging them of espionage. Britain, in response, labelled the accusations as "completely baseless". Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Putin's New Hypersonic Missile A Warning To Britain? × The relations between the two nations came to a new low last week after the United Kingdom allowed Ukraine to use Storm Shadow missiles on targets inside Russia. Russia bans entry to senior British ministers Russia on Tuesday (Nov 26) also banned some of the UK's cabinet ministers from entering the nation in response to what it called London’s “Russophobic” policies. Those ministers included Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, and Interior Minister Yvette Cooper. Additionally, more than a dozen other senior politicians in the new Labour government were also banned. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia expels British diplomat over alleged espionage

A newly-forged ‘Group of Five’ Defence Format brings together Poland, Germany, France, Italy, and the UK, a move that can potentially change Europe’s security landscape. The five countries are Europe's largest defence spenders.

New Anti-Russia Front as Putin Warns Deploying Missiles in Asia | GRAVITAS

Porch Piracy has ruined many festive plans, causing three in 10 Brits to be without a gift for their loved one on Christmas Day - experts are warning residents to be on their guard. Watch this report for more details!

Porch Piracy Ruined Holiday of Many in London

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