Iran has the capacity to enrich uranium at any percentage if <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/34-us-troops-injured-in-recent-iranian-strike-pentagon-276470">Iranian authorities </a>decide to do so, the deputy head of the country's nuclear agency said in a report posted on its website on Saturday.

"At the moment, if (Iranian authorities) make the decision, the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-4-petroleum-firms-linked-to-irans-quds-force-276442"> Atomic Energy Organisation</a>, as the executor, will be able to enrich uranium at any percentage," Ali Asghar Zarean said.

Iran said earlier this month it would scrap limitations on enriching uranium, taking a further step back from commitments to a 2015 nuclear deal with six major powers, but pledged to continue cooperating with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-us-vice-president-pence-denounce-iran-at-holocaust-memorial-ceremony-276200">U.N. nuclear watchdog</a>.

Since Iran took the latest step in reducing commitments to the accord, the country's stock of uranium produced has passed 1,200 kilograms and it will quickly be added to the stock of enriched uranium, Zarean said.

Washington withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed sanctions to throttle Iran's oil exports as part of a "maximum pressure" policy.

The United States says it aims to force Tehran to agree a broader deal that puts stricter limits on its nuclear work, curbs a ballistic missile program and ends regional proxy wars. Iran says it will not negotiate while sanctions remain in place.

Tehran has steadily been reducing its compliance with the deal, which prompted Britain, France and Germany to formally accuse it in mid-January of violating the terms and activating a dispute mechanism in the deal, which could eventually lead to the reimposition of U.N. sanctions.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said last week that if Iran's nuclear file is sent to the U.N. Security Council, the country will withdraw from the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), according to the official IRNA news agency.

Iran denies any intent to acquire nuclear weapons and says its breaches of the deal would be reversed if Washington lifts sanctions.

Iran has the capacity to enrich uranium at any percentage if Iranian authorities decide to do so, the deputy head of the country's nuclear agency said in a report posted on its website on Saturday.

Iran has the capacity to enrich uranium at any percentage if Iranian authorities decide to do so, the deputy head of the country's nuclear agency said in a report posted on its website on Saturday. "At the moment, if (Iranian authorities) make the decision, the Atomic Energy Organisation, as the executor, will be able to enrich uranium at any percentage," Ali Asghar Zarean said. Iran said earlier this month it would scrap limitations on enriching uranium, taking a further step back from commitments to a 2015 nuclear deal with six major powers, but pledged to continue cooperating with the U.N. nuclear watchdog. Since Iran took the latest step in reducing commitments to the accord, the country's stock of uranium produced has passed 1,200 kilograms and it will quickly be added to the stock of enriched uranium, Zarean said. Washington withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed sanctions to throttle Iran's oil exports as part of a "maximum pressure" policy. The United States says it aims to force Tehran to agree a broader deal that puts stricter limits on its nuclear work, curbs a ballistic missile program and ends regional proxy wars. Iran says it will not negotiate while sanctions remain in place. Tehran has steadily been reducing its compliance with the deal, which prompted Britain, France and Germany to formally accuse it in mid-January of violating the terms and activating a dispute mechanism in the deal, which could eventually lead to the reimposition of U.N. sanctions. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said last week that if Iran's nuclear file is sent to the U.N. Security Council, the country will withdraw from the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), according to the official IRNA news agency. Iran denies any intent to acquire nuclear weapons and says its breaches of the deal would be reversed if Washington lifts sanctions.

Have capacity to enrich uranium at any percentage: Iran nuclear agency

Decarbonisation is the name of the game for the next ten years and the world is still not doing enough to fight climate change, international scientists said on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos on Monday (January 20).

Decarbonisation is name of the game, climate experts tell Davos leaders

Saudi Arabia on Wednesday dismissed the reports claiming it hacked Amazon chief and owner of Washington Post, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mohammed-bin-salman-caught-spying-jeff-bezos-accused-saudi-prince-of-hacking-his-phone-275857">Jeff Bezos' phone</a>.

Terming the reports "absurd", the embassy of Saudi Arabia in the United States said, "We call for an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/investigator-says-amazon-chiefs-phone-hacked-by-saudis-206873">investigation on these claims </a>so that we can have all the facts out"

&nbsp;"Recent media reports that suggest the Kingdom is behind the hacking of Mr Jeff Bezos' phone are absurd. We call for an investigation on these claims so that we can have all the facts out," the embassy posted on Twitter.

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Recent media reports that suggest the Kingdom is behind a hacking of Mr. Jeff Bezos' phone are absurd. We call for an investigation on these claims so that we can have all the facts out.
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Two United Nations' officials are going to issue a public statement about a report in which they concluded that Bezos' phone was hacked with a video which was sent from a Whatsapp account belonging to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amazon-ceo-jeff-bezos-takes-a-dig-at-mark-zuckerberg-calls-making-of-facebook-childs-play-274396">Also read:&nbsp;Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos takes a dig at Mark Zuckerberg, calls making of Facebook child's play</a> 
&nbsp; 
As per experts consulted by the UN agreed that while the case was not airtight, the evidence is strong enough to warrant a fuller investigation into the matter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/shah-rukh-khan-a-r-rahman-and-other-b-town-stars-attend-jeff-bezos-welcome-party-in-mumbai-274817">In pics: Shah Rukh Khan, A R Rahman and other B-town stars attend Jeff Bezos welcome party in Mumbai</a>

The report is set to worsen already relations between the world's richest man and the kingdom which had soured following the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, who was also a columnist for the Washington Post.

The UN statement will come from Agnes Callamard, special rapporteur for extra-judicial killings, and David Kaye, special rapporteur for free expression.

They are building toward a fuller report they expect to give to the UN in June, the person said and will be releasing a statement on today. 
&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia on Wednesday dismissed the reports claiming it hacked Amazon chief and owner of Washington Post, Jeff Bezos' phone. Terming the reports "absurd", the embassy of Saudi Arabia in the United States said, "We call for an investigation on these claims so that we can have all the facts out" "Recent media reports that suggest the Kingdom is behind the hacking of Mr Jeff Bezos' phone are absurd.

Saudi Arabia on Wednesday dismissed the reports claiming it hacked Amazon chief and owner of Washington Post, Jeff Bezos' phone. Terming the reports "absurd", the embassy of Saudi Arabia in the United States said, "We call for an investigation on these claims so that we can have all the facts out" "Recent media reports that suggest the Kingdom is behind the hacking of Mr Jeff Bezos' phone are absurd. We call for an investigation on these claims so that we can have all the facts out," the embassy posted on Twitter. Recent media reports that suggest the Kingdom is behind a hacking of Mr. Jeff Bezos' phone are absurd. We call for an investigation on these claims so that we can have all the facts out. — Saudi Embassy (@SaudiEmbassyUSA) January 22, 2020 × Two United Nations' officials are going to issue a public statement about a report in which they concluded that Bezos' phone was hacked with a video which was sent from a Whatsapp account belonging to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Also read: Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos takes a dig at Mark Zuckerberg, calls making of Facebook child's play As per experts consulted by the UN agreed that while the case was not airtight, the evidence is strong enough to warrant a fuller investigation into the matter. In pics: Shah Rukh Khan, A R Rahman and other B-town stars attend Jeff Bezos welcome party in Mumbai The report is set to worsen already relations between the world's richest man and the kingdom which had soured following the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, who was also a columnist for the Washington Post. The UN statement will come from Agnes Callamard, special rapporteur for extra-judicial killings, and David Kaye, special rapporteur for free expression. They are building toward a fuller report they expect to give to the UN in June, the person said and will be releasing a statement on today.

Bezos allegation on hacking phone 'absurd': Saudi Arabia

A United Nations report today revealed that half a billion people around the world are unable to find reasonably paid work, leading to poverty and increasing the class disparity, The Guardian reported.

In the study, UN's International Labour Organisation (ILO) said that more than 473 million people around the world don't have access to means of employment or are employed in jobs that are unable to fulfil their needs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2153-billionaires-have-more-money-than-46-billion-people-combined-oxfam-275420">2,153 billionaires have more money than 4.6 billion people combined -&nbsp;Oxfam</a>

The report comes in at a time when international leaders are gathering at the World Economic Forum&nbsp;at a Swiss Ski resort in&nbsp;Davos, Switzerland.

The world has been witnessing trade tensions which have slowed down economic growth. The UN agency claims that this could slow down the efforts to alleviate poverty in low-income countries and could take the focus away from decarbonising the world economy.

<h6><img alt="eeee" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4dbfdb44-6cdb-4b27-acc7-dd89f88442c3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_55.jpg" /> 
A street vendor sells chicken on a cart alongside a street in Rawalpindi on January 20, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

After a long lull in the arena of unemployment, the number rose for the first time in a decade. This may be attributed to slowing economies, which has, in turn, put 2.5 million out of work, taking the total figure of unemployed people to 190 million.

Guy Ryder, the director-general of the ILO, said: ''For millions of ordinary people, it’s increasingly difficult to build better lives through work''.

The world currently has a working-age population of 5.7 billion people. According to ILO, around 165 million people are employed but unable to find work that pays an adequate amount of money to cater to their needs.

Additionally, 119 million people have given up on searching for jobs or had no access to the job market. Besides the officially unemployed people, more than 473 million in the world remain affected.

<h6><img alt="oooo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dc432c2b-fbcc-49fb-b0c2-6d5f3780dee8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_47.jpg" /> 
A labourer sleeps on sacks as traffic moves past him in a wholesale market in the old quarters of Delhi, India, January 7, 2020 | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

“Persisting and substantial work-related inequalities and exclusion are preventing them from finding decent work and better futures. That’s an extremely serious finding that has profound and worrying implications for social cohesion”, Ryder added.

The ILO further implied that the world is missing out on a huge pool of human talent that could trigger long-lasting economic and social benefits.

Owing to the lack of well-paying jobs, more than 630 million workers worldwide lived in extreme or moderate poverty with incomes lesser than $3.20 a day. These people are at the biggest risk of destitution.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sharp-slwodown-in-india-a-drag-on-world-economy-275527">Sharp slowdown in India drag on world economy, says IMF</a>

A United Nations report today revealed that half a billion people around the world are unable to find reasonably paid work, leading to poverty and increasing the class disparity, The Guardian reported.

A United Nations report today revealed that half a billion people around the world are unable to find reasonably paid work, leading to poverty and increasing the class disparity, The Guardian reported. In the study, UN's International Labour Organisation (ILO) said that more than 473 million people around the world don't have access to means of employment or are employed in jobs that are unable to fulfil their needs. Also read: 2,153 billionaires have more money than 4.6 billion people combined - Oxfam The report comes in at a time when international leaders are gathering at the World Economic Forum at a Swiss Ski resort in Davos, Switzerland. The world has been witnessing trade tensions which have slowed down economic growth. The UN agency claims that this could slow down the efforts to alleviate poverty in low-income countries and could take the focus away from decarbonising the world economy. A street vendor sells chicken on a cart alongside a street in Rawalpindi on January 20, 2020 | AFP After a long lull in the arena of unemployment, the number rose for the first time in a decade. This may be attributed to slowing economies, which has, in turn, put 2.5 million out of work, taking the total figure of unemployed people to 190 million. Guy Ryder, the director-general of the ILO, said: ''For millions of ordinary people, it’s increasingly difficult to build better lives through work''. The world currently has a working-age population of 5.7 billion people. According to ILO, around 165 million people are employed but unable to find work that pays an adequate amount of money to cater to their needs. Additionally, 119 million people have given up on searching for jobs or had no access to the job market. Besides the officially unemployed people, more than 473 million in the world remain affected. A labourer sleeps on sacks as traffic moves past him in a wholesale market in the old quarters of Delhi, India, January 7, 2020 | Reuters “Persisting and substantial work-related inequalities and exclusion are preventing them from finding decent work and better futures. That’s an extremely serious finding that has profound and worrying implications for social cohesion”, Ryder added. The ILO further implied that the world is missing out on a huge pool of human talent that could trigger long-lasting economic and social benefits. Owing to the lack of well-paying jobs, more than 630 million workers worldwide lived in extreme or moderate poverty with incomes lesser than $3.20 a day. These people are at the biggest risk of destitution. Also read: Sharp slowdown in India drag on world economy, says IMF

More than 473 million people can't find reasonably paying work: United Nations report

World leaders have agreed to UN arms embargo on Libya and to stop providing military support to the country's warring factions. However, the Berlin Summit failed to achieve its main goal of brokering a seize fire. Libya's warring factions and their allies met in Berlin in the first major international summit on the Libyan conflict in recent years. German chancellor Angela Merkel called for a political solution but she did not rule out military intervention in the North African countries civil war.

Libya peace summit in Berlin: World leaders agree on UN arms embargo

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">United Nations</a> envoy to Libya said on Saturday he hoped but "could not predict" whether eastern oil ports shut ahead of a Berlin summit aimed at reaching a truce in Libya would be reopened soon.

Oil export terminals across eastern and central Libya were shut on Friday by tribesmen allied to commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">Khalifa Haftar</a>, whose Libya National Army (LNA) has been locked in a nine-month war with government forces over control of the capital, Tripoli.

Diplomats see the closures as a power play by the LNA aimed at ramping up pressure ahead of a conference on Sunday in Berlin where Germany wants to push for a lasting truce.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NOC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NOC</a> declares force majeure after LNA blockades oil exports from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Brega?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Brega</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RasLanuf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RasLanuf</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hariga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hariga</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zueitina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zueitina</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sidra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sidra</a> ports<a href="https://t.co/KlWp8JQLXm">https://t.co/KlWp8JQLXm</a> <a href="https://t.co/xJ1vRK0PrK">pic.twitter.com/xJ1vRK0PrK</a>
— National Oil Corporation المؤسسة الوطنية للنفط (@NOC_Libya) <a href="https://twitter.com/NOC_Libya/status/1218539981595205634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The National Oil Corp (NOC) declared force majeure on oil exports from the eastern ports of Brega, Ras Lanuf, Hariga, Zueitina, and Es Sider, saying the closures would result in the loss of 800,000 barrels (bpd) day in oil output.

UN&nbsp;envoy Ghassan Salame said the summit would likely discuss the closures to avoid them dragging on for weeks or months, like previous seizures of facilities.

Watch:&nbsp;Khalifa Haftar shuts down eastern oil ports in Libya

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"If the thing is not solved between today and tomorrow I expect the issue to be raised, yes," he told reporters&nbsp;in Berlin.

But some 600 tribesmen camping out in front of Zueitina port said they would keep the terminals shut until the east of the country was able to export its own oil, bypassing Tripoli.

"We will not reopen the terminals without any international guarantees," said Osman Saleh, a tribal leader, told reporters at a tent where tribesmen sat drinking tea and listening to defiant speeches.

Oil revenues are booked via NOC in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-take-part-in-libya-peace-conference-in-germany-274938">Tripoli</a> and benefit mainly the internationally recognized Tripoli-based government, although though some public servants in the east are also paid.

To get a bigger share the LNA has several times tried to sell oil on its own only to be stopped by the United Nations as this violates an embargo, diplomats say.

Salame said a fair distribution of oil revenues needed to be part of any peace settlement in Libya.

Production in Libya, which was plunged into chaos with the toppling of longtime leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-ready-to-teach-a-lesson-to-haftar-if-libyan-forces-continue-attacks-274241">Muammar Gaddafi</a> in 2011, was estimated at 1.3 million bpd last week.

Salame said he hoped Haftar would be willing to consider extending a truce that has largely held for a week despite the two sides failing to sign a deal at indirect talks in Moscow mediated by Russia and Turkey on Monday.

There have been a series of failed conferences and negotiations to stabilize Libya. Haftar and Tripoli-based Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj are expected to be in Berlin for the summit, although the two are not expected to meet.

The war over Tripoli has been backed by foreign powers with the LNA supported by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-stands-by-revolutionary-guards-after-unrest-over-downed-plane-275015">United Arab Emirates</a>, Egypt, and most recently Russian mercenaries, and Turkey sending troops and fighters from Syria's civil war to help Serraj.

"I can confirm the arrival of fighters from Syria," Salame said, putting estimates at 1,000 to 2,000.

Salame said he had started the process of a new intra-Libyan dialogue between the rival parliaments in Tripoli and the east, an approach that has failed since 2017.

The United Nations envoy to Libya said on Saturday he hoped but "could not predict" whether eastern oil ports shut ahead of a Berlin summit aimed at reaching a truce in Libya would be reopened soon.

The United Nations envoy to Libya said on Saturday he hoped but "could not predict" whether eastern oil ports shut ahead of a Berlin summit aimed at reaching a truce in Libya would be reopened soon. Oil export terminals across eastern and central Libya were shut on Friday by tribesmen allied to commander Khalifa Haftar, whose Libya National Army (LNA) has been locked in a nine-month war with government forces over control of the capital, Tripoli. Diplomats see the closures as a power play by the LNA aimed at ramping up pressure ahead of a conference on Sunday in Berlin where Germany wants to push for a lasting truce. #NOC declares force majeure after LNA blockades oil exports from #Brega, #RasLanuf, #Hariga, #Zueitina and #Sidra portshttps://t.co/KlWp8JQLXm pic.twitter.com/xJ1vRK0PrK — National Oil Corporation المؤسسة الوطنية للنفط (@NOC_Libya) January 18, 2020 × The National Oil Corp (NOC) declared force majeure on oil exports from the eastern ports of Brega, Ras Lanuf, Hariga, Zueitina, and Es Sider, saying the closures would result in the loss of 800,000 barrels (bpd) day in oil output. UN envoy Ghassan Salame said the summit would likely discuss the closures to avoid them dragging on for weeks or months, like previous seizures of facilities. Watch: Khalifa Haftar shuts down eastern oil ports in Libya × "If the thing is not solved between today and tomorrow I expect the issue to be raised, yes," he told reporters in Berlin. But some 600 tribesmen camping out in front of Zueitina port said they would keep the terminals shut until the east of the country was able to export its own oil, bypassing Tripoli. "We will not reopen the terminals without any international guarantees," said Osman Saleh, a tribal leader, told reporters at a tent where tribesmen sat drinking tea and listening to defiant speeches. Oil revenues are booked via NOC in Tripoli and benefit mainly the internationally recognized Tripoli-based government, although though some public servants in the east are also paid. To get a bigger share the LNA has several times tried to sell oil on its own only to be stopped by the United Nations as this violates an embargo, diplomats say. Salame said a fair distribution of oil revenues needed to be part of any peace settlement in Libya. Production in Libya, which was plunged into chaos with the toppling of longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, was estimated at 1.3 million bpd last week. Salame said he hoped Haftar would be willing to consider extending a truce that has largely held for a week despite the two sides failing to sign a deal at indirect talks in Moscow mediated by Russia and Turkey on Monday. There have been a series of failed conferences and negotiations to stabilize Libya. Haftar and Tripoli-based Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj are expected to be in Berlin for the summit, although the two are not expected to meet. The war over Tripoli has been backed by foreign powers with the LNA supported by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and most recently Russian mercenaries, and Turkey sending troops and fighters from Syria's civil war to help Serraj. "I can confirm the arrival of fighters from Syria," Salame said, putting estimates at 1,000 to 2,000. Salame said he had started the process of a new intra-Libyan dialogue between the rival parliaments in Tripoli and the east, an approach that has failed since 2017.

UN envoy to Libya hopes but 'cannot predict' the reopening of Libya oil ports

Libyan rival camps and their foreign backers will attend a summit in Berlin on Sunday to discuss ways to end a proxy war over the capital <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">Tripoli</a> and the oil producer, which has displaced 140,000 and now more than halved the country's crude output.

Germany and the United Nations hope to persuade Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt to push their opposing camps to agree on a lasting truce in Tripoli, home to the internationally recognized government.

As with previous failed attempts, center stage of the one-day meeting will be occupied by eastern commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/general-haftar-ready-to-abide-by-ongoing-ceasefire-in-libya-germany-274749">Khalifa Haftar</a>, who in April started a campaign to take Tripoli. Western powers hope this time to put pressure on him to continue a ceasefire that has largely held for one week.

Haftar on Monday walked out on a Russo-Turkish summit, in contrast with his rival Fayez al-Serraj, the internationally recognized prime minister, who signed a lasting truce proposal put forward to both leaders.

Haftar, a former general from the regime of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">Muammar Gaddafi</a> toppled in 2011, appeared confident this week when German foreign minister Heiko Maas visited him at his base outside Benghazi to ask him to come to Berlin.

He leaned back in his chair while Maas was leaning towards him to make his peace pitch, a picture from the meeting showed.

Haftar escalated the conflict on Friday when allied tribesmen shut down eastern oil ports, cutting oil production by 800,000 barrels a day. That will hit hard Tripoli, which benefits most from oil revenues.

Watch:&nbsp;US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo reaches Berlin for summit

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The one-day summit, which will also bring together US&nbsp;Secretary of States Mike Pompeo and European and Arab leaders, will not attempt to broker a power-sharing agreement between Haftar and Serraj.

Instead, the focus is on a lasting ceasefire to restart talks.

Haftar is backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Jordan, Sudanese and Chadian fighters, and most recently Russian mercenaries, which helped him gain a bit on the Tripoli front. France has also given some support.

That has prompted Turkey to rush to Serraj's rescue by sending troops to Tripoli. Up to 2,000 fighters from Syria's civil war have also joined the battle to defend the capital, a UN&nbsp;official said on Saturday.

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In <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Berlin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Berlin</a> to engage world leaders and <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> officials to work toward ending hostilities in Libya. Thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Germany?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Germany</a> for serving as host and leading this important initiative. <a href="https://t.co/W8tjlO9R45">pic.twitter.com/W8tjlO9R45</a>
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1218663923823628288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I mean this is a region-wide conflict broadening, and looking increasingly like Syria which is why the whole international community is getting together in Germany," a senior US&nbsp;state department official told reporters travelling with Pompeo.

Still, expectations were "moderate," the official added.

Tarek Megerisi, a policy fellow with the North Africa and Middle East program at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said there was no sign Haftar's backers were pushing him to stop the war.

"That means that obtaining a commitment to maintain this forum where all interfering actors meet in the form of follow-up committees would likely be the most valuable output Germany could achieve," he said.

Libyan rival camps and their foreign backers will attend a summit in Berlin on Sunday to discuss ways to end a proxy war over the capital Tripoli and the oil producer, which has displaced 140,000 and now more than halved the country's crude output.

Libyan rival camps and their foreign backers will attend a summit in Berlin on Sunday to discuss ways to end a proxy war over the capital Tripoli and the oil producer, which has displaced 140,000 and now more than halved the country's crude output. Germany and the United Nations hope to persuade Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt to push their opposing camps to agree on a lasting truce in Tripoli, home to the internationally recognized government. As with previous failed attempts, center stage of the one-day meeting will be occupied by eastern commander Khalifa Haftar, who in April started a campaign to take Tripoli. Western powers hope this time to put pressure on him to continue a ceasefire that has largely held for one week. Haftar on Monday walked out on a Russo-Turkish summit, in contrast with his rival Fayez al-Serraj, the internationally recognized prime minister, who signed a lasting truce proposal put forward to both leaders. Haftar, a former general from the regime of Muammar Gaddafi toppled in 2011, appeared confident this week when German foreign minister Heiko Maas visited him at his base outside Benghazi to ask him to come to Berlin. He leaned back in his chair while Maas was leaning towards him to make his peace pitch, a picture from the meeting showed. Haftar escalated the conflict on Friday when allied tribesmen shut down eastern oil ports, cutting oil production by 800,000 barrels a day. That will hit hard Tripoli, which benefits most from oil revenues. Watch: US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo reaches Berlin for summit × The one-day summit, which will also bring together US Secretary of States Mike Pompeo and European and Arab leaders, will not attempt to broker a power-sharing agreement between Haftar and Serraj. Instead, the focus is on a lasting ceasefire to restart talks. Haftar is backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Jordan, Sudanese and Chadian fighters, and most recently Russian mercenaries, which helped him gain a bit on the Tripoli front. France has also given some support. That has prompted Turkey to rush to Serraj's rescue by sending troops to Tripoli. Up to 2,000 fighters from Syria's civil war have also joined the battle to defend the capital, a UN official said on Saturday. In #Berlin to engage world leaders and @UN officials to work toward ending hostilities in Libya. Thanks to #Germany for serving as host and leading this important initiative. pic.twitter.com/W8tjlO9R45 — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) January 18, 2020 × "I mean this is a region-wide conflict broadening, and looking increasingly like Syria which is why the whole international community is getting together in Germany," a senior US state department official told reporters travelling with Pompeo. Still, expectations were "moderate," the official added. Tarek Megerisi, a policy fellow with the North Africa and Middle East program at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said there was no sign Haftar's backers were pushing him to stop the war. "That means that obtaining a commitment to maintain this forum where all interfering actors meet in the form of follow-up committees would likely be the most valuable output Germany could achieve," he said.

Libyan rival camps to discuss ways to end crisis with an international summit in Berlin later today

In a crystal clear picture, Bangladesh was in no hurry to relocate the 1,00,000 Rohingya refugees to Bhasan Char, the floating island in the Bay of Bengal.

Bangladesh wishes to shelter just a 'fraction' of nearly 1 million <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-president-xi-jinping-to-visit-myanmar-today-with-bri-on-agenda-274811">Rohingya</a> Muslims in Bhasan Char which has now, its flood protection embankments, hospitals, mosques along with residential space. However, dates for the relocation of the refugees who fled from violent persecution are yet to be announced.

The refugee, relief and repatriation commissioner of Bangladesh, Mahbub Alam Talukder said, “Bhasan Char is ready for habitation. Everything has been put in place.”

This move came after the world body, the United Nations called for a thorough assessment to ensure the viability of the move, saying it was discussing "critical protection and operational issues" ahead of any relocation.

As of now, Bangladesh has prohibited foreign media entities from visiting the island.

A local freelance journalist Saleh Noman who recently visited Bhasan Char described that a community is shaping -up there.

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ইউএনএইচসিআরের সহায়তায় পাল্টে গেছে গ্রামীণ চিত্র 
 
রোহিঙ্গাদের পাশাপাশি স্থানীয়দের জন্য শিক্ষা ,যোগাযোগ, বাসস্থানসহ বিভিন্ন্ ধরনের সাহাজ্য সহযোগিতা করে আসছে আর্ন্তজাতিক সংস্থা ইউএনএইচসিআর সহ বিভিন্ন আইএনজিও গুলো।<a href="https://t.co/sgwhAwfX47">https://t.co/sgwhAwfX47</a>ইউএনএইচসিআরের-সহায়তায়/ <a href="https://t.co/Xc1O4EWKCs">pic.twitter.com/Xc1O4EWKCs</a>
— UNHCR in Bangladesh (@UNHCR_BGD) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNHCR_BGD/status/1214061558176899073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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“I saw a market with about 10 grocery shops and roadside tea stalls. Some were selling fish and vegetables,” he said. “All is set there with a solar power system and water supply lines.”

The island is 21 miles ahead of the mainland of Bangladesh and had never been inhabited. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-has-softened-stance-following-icj-hearing-bangladesh-foreign-minister-268492">Bangladesh</a> is itself a low-lying delta nation prone to the tidal phenomenon.&nbsp;

The naval forces of Bangladesh have been trying their best to implement a multimillion-dollar plan to bolster the two-decades-old swampy island, which gets regularly submerged during the annual monsoon season.&nbsp;

International-aid authorities including the United Nations have expressed their vehement opposition since the plan to relocate was introduced back in 2015.

According to the spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Bangladesh, Mostofa Mohammad Sazzad Hossain, the world body isn't ready to endorse the relocation and is waiting for a chance to visit the island after a November trip was canceled.

"The UN has emphasized the importance of undertaking independent and thorough technical and protection assessments that consider safety, sustainability, and protection issues prior to any relocation taking into place. The assessment process should include onsite visits to Bhasan Char,” Hossain said.&nbsp;

Most of the refugee camps that have been set up now in the beach town of Cox Bazar are overcrowded and unhygienic with diseases and organized crimes at rampant levels. Education is said to be very limited and there is no employment opportunity is available for the refugees.

Still, many Rohingyans are unwilling to return to their native lands in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-ready-to-go-back-rohingya-refugees-meet-with-myanmar-delegates-269053">Myanmar</a> due to safety concerns. Government officials still do not have an estimate of how many refugees would be willing to be relocated to the island.

On the condition of anonymity, two Bangladeshi contractors spoke to media representatives and gave an update on the development of the island.&nbsp;

“We have built quality infrastructure. Bangladeshi villages have never seen such good work. This is like a modern township project,” one contractor said.

“We have built multi-family concrete homes, hospitals, mosques, schools, playgrounds, and roads. There are solar-power facilities, a water supply system. We constructed raised concrete buildings that could be used as cyclone shelters. Many trees have been planted,” he said.

Bangladesh is in constant talks with UN humanitarian bodies, and working on their observations, said Enamur Rahman, the junior minister for disaster management and relief. "So we are going a little slow. There's no exact date to relocate," he added.

Amid of UN concerns over the relocation issues, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has repeatedly told the UN and other international partners that her administration will consult them before making a final decision on the relocation and that no refugees will be forced to move.

Within an 'unsuccessful' bilateral framework, Bangladesh tried its best to send the Rohingya refugees back to Myanmar but no one was actually willing to go as Rohingya are not considered as citizens of Myanmar&nbsp;

The Rohingya are not recognized as citizens in Myanmar, rendering them stateless, and face other forms of state-sanctioned discrimination.

A UN-sponsored investigation in 2018 recommended the prosecution of Myanmar’s top military commanders on charges of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity for the violence perpetrated against the Rohingya.

Myanmar is defending itself in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/icj-ruling-on-urgent-measures-in-rohingya-case-on-january-23-gambia-274450">International Court of Justice</a> in the Hague, Netherlands, after the West African nation of Gambia brought a case backed by the Organization for Islamic Cooperation, Canada and the Netherlands.

The Gambia in its submission said there was a “serious and imminent risk of genocide recurring” and called for emergency measures to prevent Myanmar from committing any further atrocities or erasing any evidence. The court is expected to deliver a decision on January&nbsp;23 on what measures should be imposed.

Kamal Hossain, Bangladesh's top government official in Cox’s Bazar, said Thursday that discussions attempting to convince refugee families to move to the island are continuing. “We are ready. This is a continuous process,” he said.

"We are not in a hurry and it will start only when all these UN bodies and Rohingya people feel the area is ready."

Rahman said the government was working to build more cyclone shelters on the island, which is hours from the mainland by boat. Many Rohingya have opposed the transfer plan.

A World Food Programme document shows the UN's food agency supplied <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/as-wider-trade-dispute-looms-malaysia-talks-to-india-over-palm-curbs-274679">Bangladesh</a> with detailed plans, including a timeline and a budget, on providing for thousands of Rohingya taken to the island within weeks.

Densely-populated Bangladesh says it has been grappling with the large refugee numbers.

The number of refugees in Cox's Bazar has swelled since August 2017, when a Myanmar military-led crackdown that UN investigators have said was conducted with "genocidal intent" prompted some 730,000 Rohingya to flee.

Buddhist-majority <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinas-president-xi-jinping-arrives-in-myanmar-seeking-to-push-belt-and-road-project-274887">Myanmar</a> has denied almost all accusations of atrocities made by refugees, saying its security forces engaged in a legitimate counterterrorism operation.

In a crystal clear picture, Bangladesh was in no hurry to relocate the 1,00,000 Rohingya refugees to Bhasan Char, the floating island in the Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh wishes to shelter just a 'fraction' of nearly 1 million Rohingya Muslims in Bhasan Char which has now, its flood protection embankments, hospitals, mosques along with residential space.

In a crystal clear picture, Bangladesh was in no hurry to relocate the 1,00,000 Rohingya refugees to Bhasan Char, the floating island in the Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh wishes to shelter just a 'fraction' of nearly 1 million Rohingya Muslims in Bhasan Char which has now, its flood protection embankments, hospitals, mosques along with residential space. However, dates for the relocation of the refugees who fled from violent persecution are yet to be announced. The refugee, relief and repatriation commissioner of Bangladesh, Mahbub Alam Talukder said, “Bhasan Char is ready for habitation. Everything has been put in place.” This move came after the world body, the United Nations called for a thorough assessment to ensure the viability of the move, saying it was discussing "critical protection and operational issues" ahead of any relocation. As of now, Bangladesh has prohibited foreign media entities from visiting the island. A local freelance journalist Saleh Noman who recently visited Bhasan Char described that a community is shaping -up there. ইউএনএইচসিআরের সহায়তায় পাল্টে গেছে গ্রামীণ চিত্র রোহিঙ্গাদের পাশাপাশি স্থানীয়দের জন্য শিক্ষা ,যোগাযোগ, বাসস্থানসহ বিভিন্ন্ ধরনের সাহাজ্য সহযোগিতা করে আসছে আর্ন্তজাতিক সংস্থা ইউএনএইচসিআর সহ বিভিন্ন আইএনজিও গুলো।https://t.co/sgwhAwfX47ইউএনএইচসিআরের-সহায়তায়/ pic.twitter.com/Xc1O4EWKCs — UNHCR in Bangladesh (@UNHCR_BGD) January 6, 2020 × “I saw a market with about 10 grocery shops and roadside tea stalls. Some were selling fish and vegetables,” he said. “All is set there with a solar power system and water supply lines.” The island is 21 miles ahead of the mainland of Bangladesh and had never been inhabited. Bangladesh is itself a low-lying delta nation prone to the tidal phenomenon. The naval forces of Bangladesh have been trying their best to implement a multimillion-dollar plan to bolster the two-decades-old swampy island, which gets regularly submerged during the annual monsoon season. International-aid authorities including the United Nations have expressed their vehement opposition since the plan to relocate was introduced back in 2015. According to the spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Bangladesh, Mostofa Mohammad Sazzad Hossain, the world body isn't ready to endorse the relocation and is waiting for a chance to visit the island after a November trip was canceled. "The UN has emphasized the importance of undertaking independent and thorough technical and protection assessments that consider safety, sustainability, and protection issues prior to any relocation taking into place. The assessment process should include onsite visits to Bhasan Char,” Hossain said. Most of the refugee camps that have been set up now in the beach town of Cox Bazar are overcrowded and unhygienic with diseases and organized crimes at rampant levels. Education is said to be very limited and there is no employment opportunity is available for the refugees. Still, many Rohingyans are unwilling to return to their native lands in Myanmar due to safety concerns. Government officials still do not have an estimate of how many refugees would be willing to be relocated to the island. On the condition of anonymity, two Bangladeshi contractors spoke to media representatives and gave an update on the development of the island. “We have built quality infrastructure. Bangladeshi villages have never seen such good work. This is like a modern township project,” one contractor said. “We have built multi-family concrete homes, hospitals, mosques, schools, playgrounds, and roads. There are solar-power facilities, a water supply system. We constructed raised concrete buildings that could be used as cyclone shelters. Many trees have been planted,” he said. Bangladesh is in constant talks with UN humanitarian bodies, and working on their observations, said Enamur Rahman, the junior minister for disaster management and relief. "So we are going a little slow. There's no exact date to relocate," he added. Amid of UN concerns over the relocation issues, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has repeatedly told the UN and other international partners that her administration will consult them before making a final decision on the relocation and that no refugees will be forced to move. Within an 'unsuccessful' bilateral framework, Bangladesh tried its best to send the Rohingya refugees back to Myanmar but no one was actually willing to go as Rohingya are not considered as citizens of Myanmar The Rohingya are not recognized as citizens in Myanmar, rendering them stateless, and face other forms of state-sanctioned discrimination. A UN-sponsored investigation in 2018 recommended the prosecution of Myanmar’s top military commanders on charges of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity for the violence perpetrated against the Rohingya. Myanmar is defending itself in the International Court of Justice in the Hague, Netherlands, after the West African nation of Gambia brought a case backed by the Organization for Islamic Cooperation, Canada and the Netherlands. The Gambia in its submission said there was a “serious and imminent risk of genocide recurring” and called for emergency measures to prevent Myanmar from committing any further atrocities or erasing any evidence. The court is expected to deliver a decision on January 23 on what measures should be imposed. Kamal Hossain, Bangladesh's top government official in Cox’s Bazar, said Thursday that discussions attempting to convince refugee families to move to the island are continuing. “We are ready. This is a continuous process,” he said. "We are not in a hurry and it will start only when all these UN bodies and Rohingya people feel the area is ready." Rahman said the government was working to build more cyclone shelters on the island, which is hours from the mainland by boat. Many Rohingya have opposed the transfer plan. A World Food Programme document shows the UN's food agency supplied Bangladesh with detailed plans, including a timeline and a budget, on providing for thousands of Rohingya taken to the island within weeks. Densely-populated Bangladesh says it has been grappling with the large refugee numbers. The number of refugees in Cox's Bazar has swelled since August 2017, when a Myanmar military-led crackdown that UN investigators have said was conducted with "genocidal intent" prompted some 730,000 Rohingya to flee. Buddhist-majority Myanmar has denied almost all accusations of atrocities made by refugees, saying its security forces engaged in a legitimate counterterrorism operation.

Bangladesh: Once submerged island ready to house 1,00,000 Rohingyas

Russia's ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev has backed New Delhi's position on Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking on the sidelines of the global conclave in New Delhi he said that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan and must never be raised at the United Nations.

Russia backs India on Kashmir, says Kashmir is a bilateral issue

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions.&nbsp;

Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay&nbsp;Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned... we have never been in favour of bringing this issue to the United Nation's agenda because this is strictly a bilateral matter for India and Pakistan to discuss on the basis of Shimla and Lahore. Not much to discuss under the aegis of United Nations Security Council".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-is-china-the-only-thorn-in-india-russia-ties-274835">Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties?</a>

The comments come days after China, at the behest of Pakistan, raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal meet at the United Nations Security Council. The meet saw no takers and ended without any outcome.&nbsp;

On the visit of foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month, Kudashev said he doesn't "feel the reason to travel" as "Kashmir is India's internal matter" and belongs to India's "constitutional space".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-ties-with-new-delhi-second-to-none-russian-envoy-to-india-273759">Our ties with New Delhi second to none - Russian envoy to India</a>

"Those who believe that it is an issue and doubt Indian polices in Kashmir can travel", Kudashev said.&nbsp;

The Russian mission has confirmed to WION that it won't be requesting Indian government to be part of any future foreign envoys visit. According to government sources, the visit that happened in early January was at the request of various missions.&nbsp;

"If you invite me... I will go as a friend," the envoy responded when asked if the Indian government invites him for a visit.&nbsp;

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions. Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned.

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions. Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned... we have never been in favour of bringing this issue to the United Nation's agenda because this is strictly a bilateral matter for India and Pakistan to discuss on the basis of Shimla and Lahore. Not much to discuss under the aegis of United Nations Security Council". Also read: Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties? The comments come days after China, at the behest of Pakistan, raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal meet at the United Nations Security Council. The meet saw no takers and ended without any outcome. On the visit of foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month, Kudashev said he doesn't "feel the reason to travel" as "Kashmir is India's internal matter" and belongs to India's "constitutional space". Also read: Our ties with New Delhi second to none - Russian envoy to India "Those who believe that it is an issue and doubt Indian polices in Kashmir can travel", Kudashev said. The Russian mission has confirmed to WION that it won't be requesting Indian government to be part of any future foreign envoys visit. According to government sources, the visit that happened in early January was at the request of various missions. "If you invite me... I will go as a friend," the envoy responded when asked if the Indian government invites him for a visit.

Russia supports India, says Moscow isn't in favour of Kashmir being discussed at United Nations 

Pollution needs to be cut into half and approximately one-third of the Earth needs to be protected by 2030 to save our biodiversity according to the <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/india-becomes-fourth-nation-to-pay-un-dues-on-time-world-body-thanks-new-delhi-273780">UN</a> Convention on Biological Diversity.

A draft plan was released by the UN agency this week, according to which the wildlife needs to be saved from mass extinction in the coming decades.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/un-warns-of-much-extreme-weather-ahead-after-hottest-decade-on-record-274499">UN warns of 'much extreme weather' after hottest decade on record</a>

Similar targets were set by the convention in 2010, at a summit in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rights-group-denounces-japan-envoy-for-disturbing-comments-on-myanmar-rohingya-274443">Japan</a>.

But almost all of the countries failed to meet these goals due to which they are now facing unparalleled extinction rates, the imperilled ecosystems and the deplorable condition of human survival.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/opinions/climate-change-pandemics-biodiversity-loss-no-country-is-sufficiently-prepared-260057">Climate change, pandemics, biodiversity loss: No country is sufficiently prepared</a>

It warns that 1 million out of the 8 million species are already facing extinction and many others will be obliterated in the coming decade if necessary steps are not taken.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/species-saving-galapagos-giant-tortoise-diego-can-take-a-rest-274201">Biodiversity</a> is fundamental to the well-being of human beings and is crucial for a healthy planet.

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&nbsp;

The purpose of the framework is 'to galvanize urgent and transformative action by governments and all of society, both global and local'.

The aim of the convention is the stabilization of the fragile biodiversity by 2030 and the recovery of ecosystems by 2050.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/pm-modi-invites-global-investors-to-benefit-from-indias-start-up-ecosystem-258695">&nbsp;PM Modi invites global investors to benefit from India's start-up ecosystem</a>

For the achievement of this target, the draft has laid 20 targets for the next decade.

One of these includes giving 'protected status' to biologically significant sites and to cover at least 30 per cent of them by 2030.

At least 10 per cent of these sites will be placed under ''strictly protected''.

Another target is to reduce <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/india-leads-world-in-pollution-linked-deaths-study-269127">pollution </a>from plastic wastes, biocides and excess nutrients around 50 per cent.

A crucial target presented by it also includes ascertaining that the trade of every wild species is legitimate and sustainable to bring greater sustainability to the sectors of the economy and to ensure the inclusivity of indigenous communities in it.

Pollution needs to be cut into half and approximately one-third of the Earth needs to be protected by 2030 to save our biodiversity according to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.

Pollution needs to be cut into half and approximately one-third of the Earth needs to be protected by 2030 to save our biodiversity according to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity. A draft plan was released by the UN agency this week, according to which the wildlife needs to be saved from mass extinction in the coming decades. Also read: UN warns of 'much extreme weather' after hottest decade on record Similar targets were set by the convention in 2010, at a summit in Japan. But almost all of the countries failed to meet these goals due to which they are now facing unparalleled extinction rates, the imperilled ecosystems and the deplorable condition of human survival. Also read: Climate change, pandemics, biodiversity loss: No country is sufficiently prepared It warns that 1 million out of the 8 million species are already facing extinction and many others will be obliterated in the coming decade if necessary steps are not taken. Biodiversity is fundamental to the well-being of human beings and is crucial for a healthy planet. × The purpose of the framework is 'to galvanize urgent and transformative action by governments and all of society, both global and local'. The aim of the convention is the stabilization of the fragile biodiversity by 2030 and the recovery of ecosystems by 2050. Also read: PM Modi invites global investors to benefit from India's start-up ecosystem For the achievement of this target, the draft has laid 20 targets for the next decade. One of these includes giving 'protected status' to biologically significant sites and to cover at least 30 per cent of them by 2030. At least 10 per cent of these sites will be placed under ''strictly protected''. Another target is to reduce pollution from plastic wastes, biocides and excess nutrients around 50 per cent. A crucial target presented by it also includes ascertaining that the trade of every wild species is legitimate and sustainable to bring greater sustainability to the sectors of the economy and to ensure the inclusivity of indigenous communities in it.

Only ten years to save world's biodiversity from extinction: UN

The past decade has been the hottest on record, the UN said Wednesday, warning that the higher temperatures were expected to fuel numerous extreme <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-corrupt-pillars-of-climate-change-denial-265220">weather events in 2020 </a>and beyond.

The World Meteorological Organisation, which based its findings on analysis of leading international datasets, said it also confirmed data released by the European Union's climate monitor last week showing that last year was the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/polar-bear-invasion-how-climate-change-is-forcing-them-to-change-their-hunting-habits-197555">second hottest on record</a>, after 2016.

"The year 2020 has started out where 2019 left off -- with high-impact weather and climate-related events," WMO chief Petteri Taalas said in a statement, pointing in particular to the devastating bushfires in Australia.

"Unfortunately, we expect to see much extreme weather throughout 2020 and the coming decades, fuelled by record levels of heat-trapping greenhouse gases in the atmosphere," he said.

Watch | &nbsp;2019: 15 disasters - the soaring costs of climate change

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The UN agency said that average global temperatures during both the past five-year (2015-2019) and 10-year (2010-2019) periods were the highest ever recorded.

"Since the 1980s each decade has been warmer than the previous one," the UN agency said in a statement, warning that "this trend is expected to continue".

The United Nations said last year that man-made greenhouse gas emissions needed to tumble 7.6 per cent each year to 2030 in order to limit temperature rises to 1.5C -- the more ambitious cap nations signed up to in the landmark Paris climate deal.

Current pledges to cut emissions put Earth on a path of several degrees warming by the end of the century.

Significant warming

Taalas on Wednesday said that since modern records began in 1850, the average global temperature had risen by around 1.1 degrees Celsius, and warned of significant warming in the future.

"On the current path of carbon dioxide emissions, we are heading towards a temperature increase of three to five degrees Celsius by the end of the century," he warned.&nbsp;

WMO also pointed to a new study published this week in Advances in Atmospheric Sciences with data showing that ocean heat content was at a record high in 2019.

The past five years, and past decade were also the warmest on record in terms of ocean heat content, that study showed.

Since more than 90 percent of excess heat is stored within the world's oceans, their heat content is a good way to quantify the rate of global warming, WMO said.

Scientists stressed the urgent need to do more to counter the warming trend.

"If we look at all the impacts around the world that are now occurring as a result of this warming, it is obvious that we are not succeeding in preventing dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system," said Bob Ward of the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

The past decade has been the hottest on record, the UN said Wednesday, warning that the higher temperatures were expected to fuel numerous extreme weather events in 2020 and beyond.

The past decade has been the hottest on record, the UN said Wednesday, warning that the higher temperatures were expected to fuel numerous extreme weather events in 2020 and beyond. The World Meteorological Organisation, which based its findings on analysis of leading international datasets, said it also confirmed data released by the European Union's climate monitor last week showing that last year was the second hottest on record, after 2016. "The year 2020 has started out where 2019 left off -- with high-impact weather and climate-related events," WMO chief Petteri Taalas said in a statement, pointing in particular to the devastating bushfires in Australia. "Unfortunately, we expect to see much extreme weather throughout 2020 and the coming decades, fuelled by record levels of heat-trapping greenhouse gases in the atmosphere," he said. Watch | 2019: 15 disasters - the soaring costs of climate change × The UN agency said that average global temperatures during both the past five-year (2015-2019) and 10-year (2010-2019) periods were the highest ever recorded. "Since the 1980s each decade has been warmer than the previous one," the UN agency said in a statement, warning that "this trend is expected to continue". The United Nations said last year that man-made greenhouse gas emissions needed to tumble 7.6 per cent each year to 2030 in order to limit temperature rises to 1.5C -- the more ambitious cap nations signed up to in the landmark Paris climate deal. Current pledges to cut emissions put Earth on a path of several degrees warming by the end of the century. Significant warming Taalas on Wednesday said that since modern records began in 1850, the average global temperature had risen by around 1.1 degrees Celsius, and warned of significant warming in the future. "On the current path of carbon dioxide emissions, we are heading towards a temperature increase of three to five degrees Celsius by the end of the century," he warned. WMO also pointed to a new study published this week in Advances in Atmospheric Sciences with data showing that ocean heat content was at a record high in 2019. The past five years, and past decade were also the warmest on record in terms of ocean heat content, that study showed. Since more than 90 percent of excess heat is stored within the world's oceans, their heat content is a good way to quantify the rate of global warming, WMO said. Scientists stressed the urgent need to do more to counter the warming trend. "If we look at all the impacts around the world that are now occurring as a result of this warming, it is obvious that we are not succeeding in preventing dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system," said Bob Ward of the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

UN warns of 'much extreme weather' after hottest decade on record

WION exclusively spoke with Estonia Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu on his meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on 15 January in New Delhi. Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu discussed Estonia’s principles for its membership in the UN Security Council in 2021 and 2022, India’s campaign for elected membership, and opportunities for even closer bilateral relations. The ministers also discussed reforming the UN, how to enhance economic cooperation and digital and cyber issues.

WION Exclusive conversation with Estonia Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/with-eight-months-from-tokyo-2020-venue-preparations-enter-final-stretch-263688">Tokyo</a>-based human rights activists on Wednesday decried recent remarks by Japan's ambassador to Yangon, who told local media he did not think the Myanmar military committed genocide on the Rohingya Muslim minority in the country.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fields-of-dreams-tokyo-2020s-major-sites-202797#tokyo-2020-202795">Fields of dreams: Tokyo 2020's major sites</a>&nbsp;

More than 730,000 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-rohingya-crisis-what-to-watch-for-in-2019-187973">Rohingya</a> fled the Southeast Asian nation to&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;in 2017 after a military-led crackdown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="The Rohingya crisis: What to watch for in 2019">The Rohingya crisis</a>

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-becomes-fourth-nation-to-pay-un-dues-on-time-world-body-thanks-new-delhi-273780">United Nations</a> has said the campaign was executed with "genocidal intent" and included mass killings and rape.

The military offensive has sparked a series of ongoing legal cases filed in recent months at courts across the globe, including the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-accuses-icc-of-anti-semitism-in-pursuit-of-war-crimes-probe-269630">International Criminal Court</a> (ICC) and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icc-to-probe-alleged-war-crimes-in-palestinian-territories-269444">International Court of Justice</a> (ICJ), both based in the Hague.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-accuses-icc-of-anti-semitism-in-pursuit-of-war-crimes-probe-269630">Netanyahu accuses international court of anti-semitism in war crimes probe</a>

Zaw Min Htut, vice president of an advocacy group, Burmese Rohingya Association in Japan, said the ambassador's remarks were "disturbing".

"I am very disappointed and appealing again to the Japanese government. Please try to help Rohingya people and don't side with criminals," Zaw Min Htut told foreign correspondents in Tokyo.

"Today the Japanese government do not even cooperate, not supporting U.N. actions on Myanmar," he said.

His group supports about 250 Rohingya based in Japan.

Ichiro Maruyama, the Japanese ambassador to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-adds-more-countries-to-visa-on-arrival-list-274031">Myanmar</a>, told local news website the Irrawaddy in December that he did not think the Myanmar military "committed genocide or (had the) intent of genocide". He was previously quoted by the same outlet as saying that potential trade sanctions on Myanmar over the Rohingya crisis would be "utter nonsense".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-nations-slams-myanmar-for-human-rights-abuses-of-rohingya-muslims-passes-resolutions-270753">United Nations slams Myanmar for human rights abuses of Rohingya Muslims, passes resolution</a>

The ICJ, the United Nations' highest court, will issue a decision on a request for emergency measures in a genocide case against Myanmar on Jan. 23, the Gambian Ministry of Justice said on Monday.

The mainly Muslim west African country filed a lawsuit in November, alleging Myanmar was committing "an ongoing genocide" against the Rohingya in the western state of Rakhine.

The Myanmar government has strongly disputed that conclusion, categorizing the military operation as a legitimate counter-terrorism response to attacks by Rohingya militants.

Japan's foreign ministry said it was not in a position to comment on the legal case at the ICJ because it is between "third parties".

"Ambassador Maruyama did not mean to prejudge findings or judgement of this ICJ case," the ministry told Reuters in a statement. "Rather, he merely expressed impression as a person working in the country, including showing an understanding of the complexity of the situations in Rakhine state."

Tokyo-based human rights activists on Wednesday decried recent remarks by Japan's ambassador to Yangon, who told local media he did not think the Myanmar military committed genocide on the Rohingya Muslim minority in the country.

Tokyo-based human rights activists on Wednesday decried recent remarks by Japan's ambassador to Yangon, who told local media he did not think the Myanmar military committed genocide on the Rohingya Muslim minority in the country. Also see: Fields of dreams: Tokyo 2020's major sites More than 730,000 Rohingya fled the Southeast Asian nation to Bangladesh in 2017 after a military-led crackdown. Also read: The Rohingya crisis The United Nations has said the campaign was executed with "genocidal intent" and included mass killings and rape. The military offensive has sparked a series of ongoing legal cases filed in recent months at courts across the globe, including the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), both based in the Hague. Also read: Netanyahu accuses international court of anti-semitism in war crimes probe Zaw Min Htut, vice president of an advocacy group, Burmese Rohingya Association in Japan, said the ambassador's remarks were "disturbing". "I am very disappointed and appealing again to the Japanese government. Please try to help Rohingya people and don't side with criminals," Zaw Min Htut told foreign correspondents in Tokyo. "Today the Japanese government do not even cooperate, not supporting U.N. actions on Myanmar," he said. His group supports about 250 Rohingya based in Japan. Ichiro Maruyama, the Japanese ambassador to Myanmar, told local news website the Irrawaddy in December that he did not think the Myanmar military "committed genocide or (had the) intent of genocide". He was previously quoted by the same outlet as saying that potential trade sanctions on Myanmar over the Rohingya crisis would be "utter nonsense". Also read: United Nations slams Myanmar for human rights abuses of Rohingya Muslims, passes resolution The ICJ, the United Nations' highest court, will issue a decision on a request for emergency measures in a genocide case against Myanmar on Jan. 23, the Gambian Ministry of Justice said on Monday. The mainly Muslim west African country filed a lawsuit in November, alleging Myanmar was committing "an ongoing genocide" against the Rohingya in the western state of Rakhine. The Myanmar government has strongly disputed that conclusion, categorizing the military operation as a legitimate counter-terrorism response to attacks by Rohingya militants. Japan's foreign ministry said it was not in a position to comment on the legal case at the ICJ because it is between "third parties". "Ambassador Maruyama did not mean to prejudge findings or judgement of this ICJ case," the ministry told Reuters in a statement. "Rather, he merely expressed impression as a person working in the country, including showing an understanding of the complexity of the situations in Rakhine state."

Rights group denounces Japan envoy for 'disturbing' comments on Myanmar Rohingya

Iranian Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-to-visit-iran-saudi-arabia-to-discuss-developments-in-middle-east-273726">Javad Zarif</a> will arrive here on Tuesday on a three-day visit to India amid spiralling tension between the Middle East country and the United States.

Besides addressing the Raisina Dialogue - an annual conference where dignitaries from more than 100 countries across the world will share their views on geopolitics and geoeconomics, climate change, counter-terrorism and other agendas of the next decade - the foreign minister will also pay a courtesy call to Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-and-russias-putin-discuss-regional-global-issues-in-telephonic-conversation-274090">Narendra Modi </a>on Wednesday, January 15.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shanghai-cooperation-organisation-secretary-general-vladimir-norov-arrives-in-india-on-4-day-visit-to-attend-raisina-dialogue-2020-273757">Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Secretary General Vladimir Norov arrives in India to attend Raisina Dialogue</a>

The visiting dignitary will further deliberate on regional issues with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar over breakfast on Thursday following which he will emplane for Mumbai to interact with a group of businesses leaders.

During his trip to the country's financial capital, Zarif is also scheduled to call on Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-welcomes-army-chief-mm-naravanes-remark-over-pok-urges-centre-to-move-ahead-273890">Uddhav Thackeray</a>.

He will conclude his India visit on Friday, according to an official statement.

The visit by the Iranian foreign minister comes at a time when the global attention is focused on the simmering tensions in the Middle East post the killing of Iranian general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/instagram-censoring-pro-qasem-soleimani-posts-from-the-platform-274004">Qasem Soleimani</a> by a Pentagon-ordered drone attack in Baghdad earlier this month.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Instagram censoring pro-Qasem Soleimani posts from the platform">Instagram censoring pro-Qasem Soleimani posts from the platform</a>&nbsp;

India has been maintaining that it would like the situation to de-escalate as soon as possible and the country has been in touch with key players including Iran, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uae-lightning-strikes-the-worlds-tallest-building-burj-khalifa-273807">United Arab Emirates</a>, Oman and Qatar as it has important interests in the region.

Last week, Iran launched over a dozen ballistic missiles targeting at least two bases where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soleimani-was-probably-planning-to-attack-four-us-embassies-donald-trump-273535">US</a> military and coalition forces' are stationed in Iraq.

Soleimani's killing has led to a dramatic escalation of tension between Tehran and Washington which was already strained after from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), also known as the "Iran nuclear deal," in 2018.

India has strategic interests in the Gulf region which is a key source of its energy security.

Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif will arrive here on Tuesday on a three-day visit to India amid spiralling tension between the Middle East country and the United States.

Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif will arrive here on Tuesday on a three-day visit to India amid spiralling tension between the Middle East country and the United States. Besides addressing the Raisina Dialogue - an annual conference where dignitaries from more than 100 countries across the world will share their views on geopolitics and geoeconomics, climate change, counter-terrorism and other agendas of the next decade - the foreign minister will also pay a courtesy call to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, January 15. Also read: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Secretary General Vladimir Norov arrives in India to attend Raisina Dialogue The visiting dignitary will further deliberate on regional issues with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar over breakfast on Thursday following which he will emplane for Mumbai to interact with a group of businesses leaders. During his trip to the country's financial capital, Zarif is also scheduled to call on Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. He will conclude his India visit on Friday, according to an official statement. The visit by the Iranian foreign minister comes at a time when the global attention is focused on the simmering tensions in the Middle East post the killing of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani by a Pentagon-ordered drone attack in Baghdad earlier this month. Also read: Instagram censoring pro-Qasem Soleimani posts from the platform India has been maintaining that it would like the situation to de-escalate as soon as possible and the country has been in touch with key players including Iran, United Arab Emirates, Oman and Qatar as it has important interests in the region. Last week, Iran launched over a dozen ballistic missiles targeting at least two bases where US military and coalition forces' are stationed in Iraq. Soleimani's killing has led to a dramatic escalation of tension between Tehran and Washington which was already strained after from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), also known as the "Iran nuclear deal," in 2018. India has strategic interests in the Gulf region which is a key source of its energy security.

Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif to arrive in India today on 3-day visit

European powers have triggered a dispute mechanism over the nuclear deal with Iran. This after the country took a further step back from its commitments, it is seen as a first step towards reimposing further united nations sanctions on Iran.

UK PM calls for a new ' Trump Deal '

The smoke from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/residents-of-small-australian-communities-told-to-evacuate-as-fire-approaches-270749">Australian bushfires</a> will take a 'full circuit' and return to the nation from the west, NASA said on its website.

The smoke has spread into the lower stratosphere and has reached 17.7 kilometres above sea level.&nbsp;

Nasa said that ''once it has entered the stratosphere, it can affect the atmospheric conditions globally by travelling around thousand of miles''.

<img alt="Bushfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce5ec23a-6c3d-4397-8402-e04cb3e9b83d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_31.jpg" />

It was pushed across the Pacific from the eastern coast of Australia where the fire had been blazing for the past three months.

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A fleet of NASA satellites 🛰️ working together has been analyzing the aerosols and smoke from the massive fires burning in Australia.<a href="https://t.co/93geNvCBnU">https://t.co/93geNvCBnU</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZedZ199lvJ">pic.twitter.com/ZedZ199lvJ</a>
— NASA Goddard (@NASAGoddard) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAGoddard/status/1215370818156466190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The adverse impact is not merely subjected to its nearby surroundings.

&nbsp;Not only has it visibly darkened the mountaintop snow but it has damaged the air quality in New Zealand.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;''The smoke that plummeted from the bushfire had crossed South America, turning its skies hazy It had already moved halfway across the Earth by January 8'', NASA said.

<img alt="Bushfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70794b3e-7c3e-4c65-810a-bbdb1763fe21" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_41.jpg" />

&nbsp;"Unusually large" number of pyrocumulonimbus (pyroCb) events which are fire-generated thunderstorms were produced by the massive bushfire.

&nbsp;A group of NASA satellites working together has been analyzing the aerosols and smoke from the massive fires burning in Australia.&nbsp;

<img alt="NASA published pictures of the damade made by Australain bushfires" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="558b3e67-890e-4bf8-86b8-8c98bea1d5c2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2839%29_0.jpg" />

&nbsp;Colin Seftor, a research scientist at Goddard said, “the higher the smoke plume, the larger the aerosol index value. Values over 10 are often associated with such events. The aerosol index values produced by some of the Australian pyroCb events have rivalled that largest values ever recorded.”

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/satellite-images-reveal-the-extent-of-australian-bushfire-damage-272645#cost-going-upto-$48559-million-272634">Also see:&nbsp;Satellite images reveal the extent of Australian bushfire damage</a>

The ash and smoke that had risen from the bushfire triggered these thunderstorms which provide a pathway for the smoke to travel more than 10 miles&nbsp;up into the stratosphere.

&nbsp;It was due to this reason that it succeeded in travelling ''halfway around the Earth'' and will eventually return to the nation itself.

The smoke from the Australian bushfires will take a 'full circuit' and return to the nation from the west, NASA said on its website. The smoke has spread into the lower stratosphere and has reached 17.

The smoke from the Australian bushfires will take a 'full circuit' and return to the nation from the west, NASA said on its website. The smoke has spread into the lower stratosphere and has reached 17.7 kilometres above sea level. Nasa said that ''once it has entered the stratosphere, it can affect the atmospheric conditions globally by travelling around thousand of miles''. It was pushed across the Pacific from the eastern coast of Australia where the fire had been blazing for the past three months. A fleet of NASA satellites 🛰️ working together has been analyzing the aerosols and smoke from the massive fires burning in Australia.https://t.co/93geNvCBnU pic.twitter.com/ZedZ199lvJ — NASA Goddard (@NASAGoddard) January 9, 2020 × The adverse impact is not merely subjected to its nearby surroundings. Not only has it visibly darkened the mountaintop snow but it has damaged the air quality in New Zealand. × ''The smoke that plummeted from the bushfire had crossed South America, turning its skies hazy It had already moved halfway across the Earth by January 8'', NASA said. "Unusually large" number of pyrocumulonimbus (pyroCb) events which are fire-generated thunderstorms were produced by the massive bushfire. A group of NASA satellites working together has been analyzing the aerosols and smoke from the massive fires burning in Australia. Colin Seftor, a research scientist at Goddard said, “the higher the smoke plume, the larger the aerosol index value. Values over 10 are often associated with such events. The aerosol index values produced by some of the Australian pyroCb events have rivalled that largest values ever recorded.” Also see: Satellite images reveal the extent of Australian bushfire damage The ash and smoke that had risen from the bushfire triggered these thunderstorms which provide a pathway for the smoke to travel more than 10 miles up into the stratosphere. It was due to this reason that it succeeded in travelling ''halfway around the Earth'' and will eventually return to the nation itself.

Australian bushfire smoke will take a 'full circuit' and return to the nation: NASA

A political poll showed&nbsp;Australian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-pm-proposes-high-powered-inquiry-into-bushfires-response-273680">Scott Morrison</a>'s popularity declined sharply as his government grappled with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-bushfires-2000-homes-destroyed-military-buries-4000-animals-to-prevent-diseases-272607">bushfires crisis</a> that has killed 28 people and destroyed 2,000 homes.

Monday's Newspoll comes as officials confirmed 11.2 million hectares have now been razed by fires that have been burning for months, nearly half the area of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/royal-family-fallout-uks-queen-elizabeth-calls-prince-harry-for-crisis-meeting-273672">United Kingdom</a>.

Morrison has come under attack for being slow to respond to an unprecedented crisis, even taking a family holiday to Hawaii while fires were burning.

Also watch:&nbsp;Australia Bushfires: Over 50,000 Sq Km of land consumed by fire

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He acknowledged during a television interview on Sunday that he had made some mistakes.

"We have heard the message loud and clear from the&nbsp;Australian people," Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said on Monday, when asked about the poll result as he announced a A$50 million wildlife protection fund.

"They want to see a Federal Government adopt a very direct response to these natural and national disasters," Frydenberg said.

The Newspoll showed Morrison's approval rating dropped 8 points to the lowest level since he took over leadership of the Liberal Party in August 2018.

He was overtaken by Labour leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-leader-curtails-holiday-as-firefighters-killed-in-huge-blazes-269260">Anthony Albanese</a>. No margin of error was provided for the poll, which surveyed 1,505 people from Wednesday to Saturday, although it was about 2.5 percentage points in previous Newspolls.

The poll was taken after Morrison announced a A$2 billion bushfire recovery fund and called out 3,000 army reservists to back up state emergency workers - responses that were viewed as too slow.

Morrison said on Sunday he would take a proposal to Cabinet to hold a Royal Commission national inquiry into the bushfires, including examining the response to the crisis, the role and powers of the federal government and the impact of climate change.

After weeks of raging fires whipped up by erratic winds and temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), conditions eased over the weekend with showers forecast for New South Wales (NSW), the worst hit state, over the next few days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-megablaze-brought-under-control-273841">Australian 'megablaze' brought under control</a>

"If this BOM (Bureau of Metereology) rainfall forecast comes to fruition then this will be all of our Christmas, birthday, engagement, anniversary, wedding and graduation presents rolled into one. Fingers crossed," the NSW Rural Fire Service said on Twitter.

Here are key events in the crisis:

*Frydenberg announced A$50 million in funding on Monday for protecting wildlife and restoring damaged habitat, with a focus on threatened species, like koalas, with heartbreaking images of rescues of burned animals having gone viral around the world.

*Since October, thousands of&nbsp;Australians have been subjected to repeat evacuations as huge and unpredictable fires scorched more than 11.2 million hectares, an area nearly half the size of the United Kingdom.

*Across New South Wales, 111 fires were still burning late on Sunday, 40 of them not yet contained, but none at emergency level.

*A number of fires burning in the Snowy Mountains region in New South Wales and into Victoria have merged across more than 600,000 hectares (1.5 million acres) of land. They do not pose a threat, authorities say, despite being in an area hard to reach.

*The government said on Sunday it would provide A$76 million&nbsp;for mental health counselling and healthcare consultations to firefighters, emergency workers, individuals and communities.

*Western&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;Department of Fire and Emergency Services said on Sunday an out-of-control and unpredictable fire that is moving slowly in the state's south, poses a possible threat to lives and homes in the area.

*South&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;said on Sunday that more than 32,000 livestock animals, mostly sheep, had died in recent fires on Kangaroo Island, while fire services are working to strengthen containment lines ahead of expected worsening weather conditions on Monday.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-images-reveal-the-extent-of-australian-bushfire-damage-272645">Satellite images reveal the extent of Australian bushfire damage</a>

*Thousands of&nbsp;Australians took to the streets on Friday to protest against government inaction on climate change, and were supported by protesters in London.

*Australia's wildfires have dwarfed other recent catastrophic blazes, with its burnt terrain more than twice the extent of that ravaged by 2019 fires in Brazil, California and Indonesia combined.

*Westpac estimated total bushfire losses to date at about A$5 billion, higher than the 2009 bushfires in Victoria but smaller than the Queensland floods in 2010/11. It forecast a hit of 0.2 percent&nbsp;to 0.5 percent&nbsp;on gross domestic product.

*The Insurance Council of&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;increased to more than A$900 million its estimate of damage claims from the fires, and they are expected to jump further.

*About 100 firefighters from the United States and Canada are helping, with 140 more expected in coming weeks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-strengthens-bushfire-defences-as-economic-environmental-costs-mount-272815">Australia strengthens bushfire defences as economic, environmental costs mount</a>

*The fires have emitted 400 megatonnes of carbon dioxide and produced harmful pollutants, the European Union's Copernicus monitoring programme said.

*Smoke has drifted across the Pacific, affecting cities in South America, and may have reached the Antarctic, the United Nations' World Meteorological Organization said.

A political poll showed Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison's popularity declined sharply as his government grappled with a bushfires crisis that has killed 28 people and destroyed 2,000 homes.

A political poll showed Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison's popularity declined sharply as his government grappled with a bushfires crisis that has killed 28 people and destroyed 2,000 homes. Monday's Newspoll comes as officials confirmed 11.2 million hectares have now been razed by fires that have been burning for months, nearly half the area of the United Kingdom. Morrison has come under attack for being slow to respond to an unprecedented crisis, even taking a family holiday to Hawaii while fires were burning. Also watch: Australia Bushfires: Over 50,000 Sq Km of land consumed by fire × He acknowledged during a television interview on Sunday that he had made some mistakes. "We have heard the message loud and clear from the Australian people," Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said on Monday, when asked about the poll result as he announced a A$50 million wildlife protection fund. "They want to see a Federal Government adopt a very direct response to these natural and national disasters," Frydenberg said. The Newspoll showed Morrison's approval rating dropped 8 points to the lowest level since he took over leadership of the Liberal Party in August 2018. He was overtaken by Labour leader Anthony Albanese. No margin of error was provided for the poll, which surveyed 1,505 people from Wednesday to Saturday, although it was about 2.5 percentage points in previous Newspolls. The poll was taken after Morrison announced a A$2 billion bushfire recovery fund and called out 3,000 army reservists to back up state emergency workers - responses that were viewed as too slow. Morrison said on Sunday he would take a proposal to Cabinet to hold a Royal Commission national inquiry into the bushfires, including examining the response to the crisis, the role and powers of the federal government and the impact of climate change. After weeks of raging fires whipped up by erratic winds and temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), conditions eased over the weekend with showers forecast for New South Wales (NSW), the worst hit state, over the next few days. Also read: Australian 'megablaze' brought under control "If this BOM (Bureau of Metereology) rainfall forecast comes to fruition then this will be all of our Christmas, birthday, engagement, anniversary, wedding and graduation presents rolled into one. Fingers crossed," the NSW Rural Fire Service said on Twitter. Here are key events in the crisis: *Frydenberg announced A$50 million in funding on Monday for protecting wildlife and restoring damaged habitat, with a focus on threatened species, like koalas, with heartbreaking images of rescues of burned animals having gone viral around the world. *Since October, thousands of Australians have been subjected to repeat evacuations as huge and unpredictable fires scorched more than 11.2 million hectares, an area nearly half the size of the United Kingdom. *Across New South Wales, 111 fires were still burning late on Sunday, 40 of them not yet contained, but none at emergency level. *A number of fires burning in the Snowy Mountains region in New South Wales and into Victoria have merged across more than 600,000 hectares (1.5 million acres) of land. They do not pose a threat, authorities say, despite being in an area hard to reach. *The government said on Sunday it would provide A$76 million for mental health counselling and healthcare consultations to firefighters, emergency workers, individuals and communities. *Western Australia Department of Fire and Emergency Services said on Sunday an out-of-control and unpredictable fire that is moving slowly in the state's south, poses a possible threat to lives and homes in the area. *South Australia said on Sunday that more than 32,000 livestock animals, mostly sheep, had died in recent fires on Kangaroo Island, while fire services are working to strengthen containment lines ahead of expected worsening weather conditions on Monday. Also see: Satellite images reveal the extent of Australian bushfire damage *Thousands of Australians took to the streets on Friday to protest against government inaction on climate change, and were supported by protesters in London. *Australia's wildfires have dwarfed other recent catastrophic blazes, with its burnt terrain more than twice the extent of that ravaged by 2019 fires in Brazil, California and Indonesia combined. *Westpac estimated total bushfire losses to date at about A$5 billion, higher than the 2009 bushfires in Victoria but smaller than the Queensland floods in 2010/11. It forecast a hit of 0.2 percent to 0.5 percent on gross domestic product. *The Insurance Council of Australia increased to more than A$900 million its estimate of damage claims from the fires, and they are expected to jump further. *About 100 firefighters from the United States and Canada are helping, with 140 more expected in coming weeks. Also read: Australia strengthens bushfire defences as economic, environmental costs mount *The fires have emitted 400 megatonnes of carbon dioxide and produced harmful pollutants, the European Union's Copernicus monitoring programme said. *Smoke has drifted across the Pacific, affecting cities in South America, and may have reached the Antarctic, the United Nations' World Meteorological Organization said.

Australian Prime Minister's approval rating singed by bushfires

The United Nations has thanked India for the timely payment of its regular budget assessment dues. India is the fourth nations for doing so, paying its dues ahead of the February 1, 2020 deadline.&nbsp;

India paid $23,396,496 in total to the United Nations on January 10. Armenia, Portugal and Ukraine were the three countries ahead of India in paying their dues on time.&nbsp;

India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin tweeted on the same saying &nbsp;"Very few have already made it..."

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Very few have already made it... 
Hope many, many more make it... 
 
Check out which <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> members r on <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> 2020 Honor Roll already.<a href="https://t.co/9puqL8Zlrd">https://t.co/9puqL8Zlrd</a> <a href="https://t.co/HLFhI34kFN">pic.twitter.com/HLFhI34kFN</a>
— Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkbaruddinIndia/status/1215826742499315712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Very few have already made it... Hope many, many more make it... Check out which @UN members r &nbsp;on @UN 2020 Honor Roll already," Akbaruddin's tweet read.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-among-34-un-nations-to-pay-regular-annual-dues-within-stipulated-time-254631">India among 34 UN&nbsp;nations to pay regular annual dues within stipulated time</a>

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In October 2019, the United Nations shared a document which showed India among 34 nations that paid their regular annual dues within the stipulated time of 30 days.&nbsp;

Out of 129, only 34 members paid their regular budget assessments in full within the 30-day due period specified in the UN's Financial Regulation.

The UN's operating budget for 2018-2019 was close to $5.4 billion which didn't include the money for peacekeeping operations. India's contribution was $23,253,808 last year.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke about the United Nation's worst deficit in nearly a decade last year.&nbsp;

"The organisation runs the risk of depleting its liquidity reserves by the end of the month and defaulting on payments to staff and vendors," an official statement read.&nbsp;

The United Nations has thanked India for the timely payment of its regular budget assessment dues. India is the fourth nations for doing so, paying its dues ahead of the February 1, 2020 deadline.

The United Nations has thanked India for the timely payment of its regular budget assessment dues. India is the fourth nations for doing so, paying its dues ahead of the February 1, 2020 deadline. India paid $23,396,496 in total to the United Nations on January 10. Armenia, Portugal and Ukraine were the three countries ahead of India in paying their dues on time. India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin tweeted on the same saying "Very few have already made it..." Very few have already made it... Hope many, many more make it... Check out which @UN members r on @UN 2020 Honor Roll already.https://t.co/9puqL8Zlrd pic.twitter.com/HLFhI34kFN — Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) January 11, 2020 × "Very few have already made it... Hope many, many more make it... Check out which @UN members r on @UN 2020 Honor Roll already," Akbaruddin's tweet read. Also read: India among 34 UN nations to pay regular annual dues within stipulated time × In October 2019, the United Nations shared a document which showed India among 34 nations that paid their regular annual dues within the stipulated time of 30 days. Out of 129, only 34 members paid their regular budget assessments in full within the 30-day due period specified in the UN's Financial Regulation. The UN's operating budget for 2018-2019 was close to $5.4 billion which didn't include the money for peacekeeping operations. India's contribution was $23,253,808 last year. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke about the United Nation's worst deficit in nearly a decade last year. "The organisation runs the risk of depleting its liquidity reserves by the end of the month and defaulting on payments to staff and vendors," an official statement read.

India becomes fourth nation to pay UN dues on time, world body thanks New Delhi

The United Nations has thanked India for paying its regular budget estimates, the fourth nation to make full contributions within the specified time frame of only the 193-member world body. #UN #India #UNBudget2020

India pays $23.4 Mn for the UN Budget 2020, UN facing deep cash deficit

Turkey on Saturday asked Russia to convince eastern Libyan strongman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-haftar-forces-seize-large-parts-of-sirte-city-272759">Khalifa Haftar </a>to respect a ceasefire initiative by Ankara and Moscow that he has rejected.

Khalifa Haftar to respect a ceasefire initiative by Ankara and Moscow that he has rejected.&nbsp;

"We are waiting for our Russian friends to succeed in convincing Haftar," Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-will-retaliate-against-any-sanctions-ahead-of-us-vote-267704">Mevlut Cavusoglu</a> told a news conference.

In a statement read by his spokesman Ahmad al-Mesmari, Haftar claimed that a revival of the political process and the country's stability could only be assured by the "eradication of terrorist groups" and the dissolution of militia controlling Tripoli.

An adviser to Haftar later told AFP that Haftar's position did not amount to a rejection of the ceasefire initiative, but rather "conditions that must be fulfilled" ahead of any truce.

Haftar's forces in April launched an offensive against the capital, seat of the UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA).

Turkish President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/80000-syrian-migrants-marching-to-turkey-says-recep-erdogan-269633">Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> and his Russian counterpart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-russia-makes-worlds-best-cheese-thanks-to-putins-sanctions-war-264952">Vladimir Putin</a> called for a ceasefire on Wednesday in Istanbul.

Cavusoglu accused "regional nations" -- a reference to Arab countries backing Haftar and also to France -- of opposing a ceasefire.

"France is looking for any means to sabotage any initiative of which is not party to," he said.

Turkey last week started deploying troops in Libya to back the GNA led by Fayez al-Sarraj.

Cavusoglu also said Saturday that a new ceasefire brokered by Ankara and Moscow was due to come into force at 0001 GMT Sunday in Idlib, the last rebel bastion in Syria's northwest.

"We hope that it will be lasting this time and that Russia will be able to control the regime forces," he said.

Russia is a key backer of the Syrian regime of President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/efforts-to-return-syrias-bashar-al-assad-to-arab-fold-amount-to-hollow-victory-for-autocrats-186828">Bashar al-Assad</a>.

The Syrian conflict began in March 2011 and has claimed more than 380,000 lives and displaced millions.

Turkey on Saturday asked Russia to convince eastern Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar to respect a ceasefire initiative by Ankara and Moscow that he has rejected. Khalifa Haftar to respect a ceasefire initiative by Ankara and Moscow that he has rejected.

Turkey on Saturday asked Russia to convince eastern Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar to respect a ceasefire initiative by Ankara and Moscow that he has rejected. Khalifa Haftar to respect a ceasefire initiative by Ankara and Moscow that he has rejected. "We are waiting for our Russian friends to succeed in convincing Haftar," Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told a news conference. In a statement read by his spokesman Ahmad al-Mesmari, Haftar claimed that a revival of the political process and the country's stability could only be assured by the "eradication of terrorist groups" and the dissolution of militia controlling Tripoli. An adviser to Haftar later told AFP that Haftar's position did not amount to a rejection of the ceasefire initiative, but rather "conditions that must be fulfilled" ahead of any truce. Haftar's forces in April launched an offensive against the capital, seat of the UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin called for a ceasefire on Wednesday in Istanbul. Cavusoglu accused "regional nations" -- a reference to Arab countries backing Haftar and also to France -- of opposing a ceasefire. "France is looking for any means to sabotage any initiative of which is not party to," he said. Turkey last week started deploying troops in Libya to back the GNA led by Fayez al-Sarraj. Cavusoglu also said Saturday that a new ceasefire brokered by Ankara and Moscow was due to come into force at 0001 GMT Sunday in Idlib, the last rebel bastion in Syria's northwest. "We hope that it will be lasting this time and that Russia will be able to control the regime forces," he said. Russia is a key backer of the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad. The Syrian conflict began in March 2011 and has claimed more than 380,000 lives and displaced millions.

Turkey asks Russia to convince Libyan general to accept truce

'There are no takers for your malware': India blasts Pakistan at United Nations Security Councils. While Speaking before UNSC, India's permanent Ambassador to UN Syed Akbaruddin said Pakistan Is a Country that 'Epitomises the dark art'. #IndiaBlastsPakistan #UNSC #WIONNews

India's Akbaruddin blasts Pakistan at UNSC

"There are no takers for your malware" were the words of Indian ambassador to the United Nations as he gave a befitting reply to Pakistan after the country raised the issue of Kashmir yet again.&nbsp;

"One delegation that epitomizes the dark arts has, yet again, displayed its wares by peddling falsehoods earlier today. These we dismiss with disdain. My simple response to Pakistan is even though it is late, neighbour, heal thyself of your malaise. There are no takers here for your malware," India’s Ambassador &amp; Permanent Representative to the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin said on Thursday while addressing UN Security Council in a open debate.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-orders-review-on-all-restrictive-orders-in-jammu-and-kashmir-after-article-370-abrogation-273307">Supreme Court orders review on all restrictive orders in Jammu and Kashmir after Article 370 abrogation</a>

Akbaruddin's strong response came after Pakistan's ambassador to the UN Munir Akram raised the Kashmir issue during an open debate of the UN council. Akram also spoke on abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, communication restrictions in the valley and the capture of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman last year by Pakistan.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/around-15-foreign-envoys-to-tour-jammu-and-kashmir-on-thursday-eu-envoys-next-273050">Around 15 foreign envoys to tour Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday; EU envoys next</a>&nbsp;

The Pakistani envoy urged the UN to take decisive measure for preventing a war between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

The Indian envoy also said that the UN council is facing "identity" and "relevance" crisis among others.&nbsp;

"It is increasingly acknowledged that the Council faces crises of identity and legitimacy, as well as relevance and performance. The globalisation of terror networks; the weaponisation of new technologies; the inability to counter those resorting to subversive statecraft are showing up the shortcomings of the Council," Akbaruddin said.

(with inputs from agencies)

"There are no takers for your malware" were the words of Indian ambassador to the United Nations as he gave a befitting reply to Pakistan after the country raised the issue of Kashmir yet again.

"There are no takers for your malware" were the words of Indian ambassador to the United Nations as he gave a befitting reply to Pakistan after the country raised the issue of Kashmir yet again. "One delegation that epitomizes the dark arts has, yet again, displayed its wares by peddling falsehoods earlier today. These we dismiss with disdain. My simple response to Pakistan is even though it is late, neighbour, heal thyself of your malaise. There are no takers here for your malware," India’s Ambassador & Permanent Representative to the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin said on Thursday while addressing UN Security Council in a open debate. Also read: Supreme Court orders review on all restrictive orders in Jammu and Kashmir after Article 370 abrogation Akbaruddin's strong response came after Pakistan's ambassador to the UN Munir Akram raised the Kashmir issue during an open debate of the UN council. Akram also spoke on abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, communication restrictions in the valley and the capture of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman last year by Pakistan. Also read: Around 15 foreign envoys to tour Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday; EU envoys next The Pakistani envoy urged the UN to take decisive measure for preventing a war between India and Pakistan. The Indian envoy also said that the UN council is facing "identity" and "relevance" crisis among others. "It is increasingly acknowledged that the Council faces crises of identity and legitimacy, as well as relevance and performance. The globalisation of terror networks; the weaponisation of new technologies; the inability to counter those resorting to subversive statecraft are showing up the shortcomings of the Council," Akbaruddin said. (with inputs from agencies)

'There are no takers for your malware': India blasts Pakistan at UN debate

India's permanent representative to the United Nations, Syed Akbaruddin has ripped into Pakistan at the UN Security Council. Akbaruddin asked Pakistan to stop peddling falsehoods and said that Islamabad epitomised 'dark arts'. WION's Palki Sharma explains. #Gravitas #UN #Pakistan #IndianEnvoy #UN #SyedAkbaruddin

Gravitas: Indian Envoy at the UN, Pakistan must stop peddling lies

In preliminary toll of a mortar attack on a military base in northern Mali, eighteen United Nations' troops and two civilians were injured,&nbsp;news agency AFP reported on Thursday.

Since 2012,&nbsp;Mali is struggling to contain an Islamist insurgency. The crisis has claimed thousands of military and civilian lives since. &nbsp;

An internal UN report seen by AFP said 15 mortar rounds landed "inside and around" the military base in Tessalit, in northern Mali close to the border with Algeria.&nbsp;

Camp personnel took shelter in a bunker, the report said, adding that two Malian civilians were wounded in the section of camp harbouring French soldiers.&nbsp;

Some 4,500 French troops are deployed in the Sahel region, while the UN has a 13,000-strong peacekeeping force in Mali.

The Tessalit camp hosts a battalion of troops from Chad, as well French troops.

(With inputs from agencies)

In preliminary toll of a mortar attack on a military base in northern Mali, eighteen United Nations' troops and two civilians were injured, news agency AFP reported on Thursday.

In preliminary toll of a mortar attack on a military base in northern Mali, eighteen United Nations' troops and two civilians were injured, news agency AFP reported on Thursday. Since 2012, Mali is struggling to contain an Islamist insurgency. The crisis has claimed thousands of military and civilian lives since. An internal UN report seen by AFP said 15 mortar rounds landed "inside and around" the military base in Tessalit, in northern Mali close to the border with Algeria. Camp personnel took shelter in a bunker, the report said, adding that two Malian civilians were wounded in the section of camp harbouring French soldiers. Some 4,500 French troops are deployed in the Sahel region, while the UN has a 13,000-strong peacekeeping force in Mali. The Tessalit camp hosts a battalion of troops from Chad, as well French troops. (With inputs from agencies)

18 UN troops and 2 civilians injured attack in Mali mortar attack

Foreign envoys from 17 nations nations,including the United Nations, have reached Kashmir as the newly formed UT enters sixth month of complete lockdown and internet shutdown. #ForeignEnvoys #JammuAndKashmir #UnitedNations

Foreign envoys from 17 nations arrive in Srinagar

Post-Soleimani’s death, tensions have been escalating between Iran and the United States&nbsp;even as the funeral procession of slain Iran General Soleimani began in his hometown Kerman today. The Iranian general will be buried later on Tuesday.

<meta charset="utf-8" />

<ul>
	<li>Iran’s Quds Force Commander, Qasem Soleimani will be buried in his hometown, Kerman. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The three-day national funeral procession in Iran and Iraq will end today. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei promised "severe revenge". 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mourners shouted ‘revenge’ during the national funeral procession observed in Soleimani’s death. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Addressing the crowd during a funeral procession on Monday, Soleimani’s daughter, Zeinab Soleimani, called&nbsp;US President ‘Crazy Trump and added, "Don’t think everything is over",&nbsp;and promised "dark days"&nbsp;for the US in the days ahead.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The Tehran government said it will roll back from the international nuclear accord. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Saudi’s foreign minister, Prince Faisal, said,&nbsp;“It is certainly a very dangerous moment." 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>President Donald Trump tweeted, "IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!" over Iran’s announcement on Uranium extraction.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

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IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1214197038063243266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<ul>
	<li>Amid rising global tensions, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concern and called for ‘maximum restraint’.</li>
</ul>

Watch:&nbsp;Soleimani to be buried today in Iranian hometown

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Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-criticises-russia-china-at-un-over-failure-to-condemn-baghdad-embassy-attack-272600">US criticises Russia, China at UN over failure to condemn Baghdad embassy attack</a>

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-have-a-nuclear-weapon-says-trump-as-tehran-mourns-suleimani-272585">Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, says Trump as Tehran mourns Suleimani</a>

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reaches-out-to-countries-in-west-asia-amid-us-iran-tensions-272367">India reaches out to countries in West Asia amid US-Iran tensions</a>

(With Inputs from AFP)

Post-Soleimani’s death, tensions have been escalating between Iran and the United States even as the funeral procession of slain Iran General Soleimani began in his hometown Kerman today.

Post-Soleimani’s death, tensions have been escalating between Iran and the United States even as the funeral procession of slain Iran General Soleimani began in his hometown Kerman today. The Iranian general will be buried later on Tuesday. Iran’s Quds Force Commander, Qasem Soleimani will be buried in his hometown, Kerman. The three-day national funeral procession in Iran and Iraq will end today. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei promised "severe revenge". Mourners shouted ‘revenge’ during the national funeral procession observed in Soleimani’s death. Addressing the crowd during a funeral procession on Monday, Soleimani’s daughter, Zeinab Soleimani, called US President ‘Crazy Trump and added, "Don’t think everything is over", and promised "dark days" for the US in the days ahead. The Tehran government said it will roll back from the international nuclear accord. Saudi’s foreign minister, Prince Faisal, said, “It is certainly a very dangerous moment." President Donald Trump tweeted, "IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!" over Iran’s announcement on Uranium extraction. IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2020 × Amid rising global tensions, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concern and called for ‘maximum restraint’. Watch: Soleimani to be buried today in Iranian hometown × Read More: US criticises Russia, China at UN over failure to condemn Baghdad embassy attack Read More: Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, says Trump as Tehran mourns Suleimani Read More: India reaches out to countries in West Asia amid US-Iran tensions (With Inputs from AFP)

Latest updates on Iran general Qasem Soleimani's killing: Funeral procession begins in Kerman

A woman was arrested in Spain on Thursday after she was posing as the president of the Spanish branch of the United Nations' agency on women.

According to a report she deceived several media outlets through impersonation and allegedly asked for funds while offering online legal courses.

The woman is a Spanish national of Nigerian origin and was arrested&nbsp;in Spain's&nbsp;Denia city.

An official statement by police said that the woman "took part in conferences and media interviews claiming to be the president of UN Women in Spain."&nbsp;

Several major Spanish media outlets had presented or cited her as the president of UN Women in Spain.

According to the webpage of New York-based UN Women, there is no representative of the organisation in Spain.

The body is "dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women" and it is currently headed by Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, a former deputy president of South Africa.

Police said they launched their investigation in 2018 after receiving a complaint about the woman from UN Women, which is "dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women."

On her personal webpage, the woman presented herself as a detective or financial consultant.

She founded a party in Spain in 2014 called "Union de Todos", or "Union of All", and stood as a candidate for the group in several recent general elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

A woman was arrested in Spain on Thursday after she was posing as the president of the Spanish branch of the United Nations' agency on women. According to a report she deceived several media outlets through impersonation and allegedly asked for funds while offering online legal courses.

A woman was arrested in Spain on Thursday after she was posing as the president of the Spanish branch of the United Nations' agency on women. According to a report she deceived several media outlets through impersonation and allegedly asked for funds while offering online legal courses. The woman is a Spanish national of Nigerian origin and was arrested in Spain's Denia city. An official statement by police said that the woman "took part in conferences and media interviews claiming to be the president of UN Women in Spain." Several major Spanish media outlets had presented or cited her as the president of UN Women in Spain. According to the webpage of New York-based UN Women, there is no representative of the organisation in Spain. The body is "dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women" and it is currently headed by Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, a former deputy president of South Africa. Police said they launched their investigation in 2018 after receiving a complaint about the woman from UN Women, which is "dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women." On her personal webpage, the woman presented herself as a detective or financial consultant. She founded a party in Spain in 2014 called "Union de Todos", or "Union of All", and stood as a candidate for the group in several recent general elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain: Police arrest woman posing as UN women's representative

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/croatia-votes-for-president-set-to-lead-european-union-269511">European Union</a> called on Syria's regime and its allies to halt "indiscriminate" military attacks on civilians in the country's north-west, where an intensifying bombardment by Damascus and Russian forces has displaced tens of thousands.

Civilians have streamed out of affected areas of jihadist-dominated Idlib province in recent weeks to escape heightened attacks on the southern edge of the final major opposition-held pocket of Syria, eight years into the country's devastating war.

"The escalation of violence in the Northwest of Syria by the Syrian regime and its allies must cease," the EU said in a statement by a spokesperson for European Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, which said airstrikes and shelling had led to "countless civilian deaths".

"All parties have the obligation to protect civilians. The regime and its allies must cease indiscriminate military attacks and respect international humanitarian law," the statement said.

Violence has intensified since mid-December despite an August ceasefire deal and international calls for a de-escalation.

More than <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-235000-flee-northwest-syria-flare-up-united-nation-270586">235,000 people fled</a> the area between December 12 and 25, mostly from the beleaguered city of Maaret al-Numan, according to the United Nations' humanitarian coordination agency OCHA.

The EU called for urgent unhindered humanitarian access to the three million civilians thought to be living in Idlib province.&nbsp;

It acknowledged that "terrorist groups" were operating in the region, but stressed that combating these networks "does not permit the undermining of international humanitarian law or the targeting of civilians".

The Idlib region is dominated by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.&nbsp;

Residents in the province mainly depend on critical cross-border aid, which came under threat in December after Russia and China vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that would have extended such deliveries for a year.&nbsp;

The move raised fears that vital UN-funded aid could stop entering Idlib from January unless an alternative agreement is reached.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-235000-flee-northwest-syria-flare-up-united-nation-270586">Damascus regime</a>, which now controls 70 per cent of Syria, has repeatedly vowed to take back the region.&nbsp;

Backed by Moscow, Damascus launched a blistering offensive against Idlib in April, killing around 1,000 civilians and displacing more than 400,000 people.

Syria's war has killed over 370,000 people and displaced millions since beginning in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

The European Union called on Syria's regime and its allies to halt "indiscriminate" military attacks on civilians in the country's north-west, where an intensifying bombardment by Damascus and Russian forces has displaced tens of thousands.

The European Union called on Syria's regime and its allies to halt "indiscriminate" military attacks on civilians in the country's north-west, where an intensifying bombardment by Damascus and Russian forces has displaced tens of thousands. Civilians have streamed out of affected areas of jihadist-dominated Idlib province in recent weeks to escape heightened attacks on the southern edge of the final major opposition-held pocket of Syria, eight years into the country's devastating war. "The escalation of violence in the Northwest of Syria by the Syrian regime and its allies must cease," the EU said in a statement by a spokesperson for European Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, which said airstrikes and shelling had led to "countless civilian deaths". "All parties have the obligation to protect civilians. The regime and its allies must cease indiscriminate military attacks and respect international humanitarian law," the statement said. Violence has intensified since mid-December despite an August ceasefire deal and international calls for a de-escalation. More than 235,000 people fled the area between December 12 and 25, mostly from the beleaguered city of Maaret al-Numan, according to the United Nations' humanitarian coordination agency OCHA. The EU called for urgent unhindered humanitarian access to the three million civilians thought to be living in Idlib province. It acknowledged that "terrorist groups" were operating in the region, but stressed that combating these networks "does not permit the undermining of international humanitarian law or the targeting of civilians". The Idlib region is dominated by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Residents in the province mainly depend on critical cross-border aid, which came under threat in December after Russia and China vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that would have extended such deliveries for a year. The move raised fears that vital UN-funded aid could stop entering Idlib from January unless an alternative agreement is reached. The Damascus regime, which now controls 70 per cent of Syria, has repeatedly vowed to take back the region. Backed by Moscow, Damascus launched a blistering offensive against Idlib in April, killing around 1,000 civilians and displacing more than 400,000 people. Syria's war has killed over 370,000 people and displaced millions since beginning in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Syria regime must halt 'escalation of violence': European Union

At least 90 people were killed and dozens were wounded when a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-death-toll-jumps-to-71-in-car-bomb-attack-in-mogadishu-270750">bomb-laden vehicle exploded</a> at a bustling checkpoint in the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday, an international organisation working in the country said, in one of the most deadly recent attacks.

The dead included many students and two Turkish nationals, the Somali foreign minister said.

Rescuers carried bodies past the twisted wreckage of a vehicle and a minibus taxi smeared with blood.

A report by the international organisation, which did not want to be named, said the death toll was more than 90. A Somali MP also tweeted that he had been told the death toll stands at more than 90, including 17 police officers.

Abdikadir Abdirahman Haji Aden, the founder of Aamin ambulances, told Reuters that dozens of people were also wounded.

No-one immediately claimed responsibility for the blast.

Al Qaeda-linked Islamist group al Shabaab regularly carries out such attacks in an attempt to undermine the government, which is backed by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-nations-slams-myanmar-for-human-rights-abuses-of-rohingya-muslims-passes-resolutions-270753">United Nations</a> and African Union troops.

The most deadly attack blamed on the group was in October 2017 when a bomb-laden truck exploded next to a fuel tanker in Mogadishu, creating a storm of fire that killed nearly 600 people.

While al Shabaab carries out frequent attacks, the death tolls are often lower than in Saturday's blast. The group has sometimes not claimed responsibility for attacks that sparked a big public backlash, such as a 2009 suicide bombing of a graduation ceremony for medical students.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Bomb blast at busy Mogadishu checkpoint claim lives of more that 90, dozens injured

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Three witnesses told Reuters that a small team of Turkish engineers were present at the time of the blast at the Ex-Control checkpoint, constructing a road from the checkpoint into the city.

A car belonging to the engineers was destroyed instantly in the blast, the witnesses said.

Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Awad later tweeted that two of the Turkish engineers died in the blast.

Many of the dead were "students with ambition, and hardworking men and women", he wrote.

Turkey's foreign ministry confirmed the death of two of its nationals.

Turkey has been a major donor to Somalia since a famine in 2011, and together with the government of Qatar is funding a number of infrastructure and medical projects in the country. In 2017, Turkey opened a military base in Mogadishu to train Somali soldiers.

The checkpoint is also a tax collection point for the government, Ali Abdi Ali Hoshow, a foreign affairs ministry official, said on Twitter.

'Screaming for help'&nbsp;

After the explosion, 55-year-old Sabdow Ali, who lives nearby, said he left his house and counted at least 13 people dead.

"Dozens of injured people were screaming for help but the police immediately opened fire and I rushed back to my house," he told Reuters.

The injured were transported to Medina Hospital, where a Reuters witness saw dozens arriving by ambulance. A nurse at the hospital, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the facility had received more than 100 wounded people.

Relatives gathered at the hospital, weeping outside the entrance as they sought information on their loved ones.

Speaking to reporters at the blast site, Mogadishu Mayor Omar Muhamoud said the government confirmed at least 90 civilians, mostly students, had been injured.

Police officials were not immediately available for comment on casualty numbers.

The Horn of Africa country has been riven by conflict since 1991, when clan warlords overthrew dictator Siad Barre and then turned on each other.

Al Shabaab grew out of a political movement that used Islamic courts to try to impose order on the country. U.S.-backed Ethiopian soldiers defeated the Islamic Courts Union in 2006, but the movement's youth wing split off and launched an insurgency.

Al Shabaab pledged loyalty to al Qaeda in 2012, as the insurgency battled African Union peacekeepers.

The group has also carried out attacks in east African countries such as Kenya and Uganda.

At least 90 people were killed and dozens were wounded when a bomb-laden vehicle exploded at a bustling checkpoint in the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday, an international organisation working in the country said, in one of the most deadly recent attacks.

At least 90 people were killed and dozens were wounded when a bomb-laden vehicle exploded at a bustling checkpoint in the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday, an international organisation working in the country said, in one of the most deadly recent attacks. The dead included many students and two Turkish nationals, the Somali foreign minister said. Rescuers carried bodies past the twisted wreckage of a vehicle and a minibus taxi smeared with blood. A report by the international organisation, which did not want to be named, said the death toll was more than 90. A Somali MP also tweeted that he had been told the death toll stands at more than 90, including 17 police officers. Abdikadir Abdirahman Haji Aden, the founder of Aamin ambulances, told Reuters that dozens of people were also wounded. No-one immediately claimed responsibility for the blast. Al Qaeda-linked Islamist group al Shabaab regularly carries out such attacks in an attempt to undermine the government, which is backed by the United Nations and African Union troops. The most deadly attack blamed on the group was in October 2017 when a bomb-laden truck exploded next to a fuel tanker in Mogadishu, creating a storm of fire that killed nearly 600 people. While al Shabaab carries out frequent attacks, the death tolls are often lower than in Saturday's blast. The group has sometimes not claimed responsibility for attacks that sparked a big public backlash, such as a 2009 suicide bombing of a graduation ceremony for medical students. Also Watch: Bomb blast at busy Mogadishu checkpoint claim lives of more that 90, dozens injured × Three witnesses told Reuters that a small team of Turkish engineers were present at the time of the blast at the Ex-Control checkpoint, constructing a road from the checkpoint into the city. A car belonging to the engineers was destroyed instantly in the blast, the witnesses said. Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Awad later tweeted that two of the Turkish engineers died in the blast. Many of the dead were "students with ambition, and hardworking men and women", he wrote. Turkey's foreign ministry confirmed the death of two of its nationals. Turkey has been a major donor to Somalia since a famine in 2011, and together with the government of Qatar is funding a number of infrastructure and medical projects in the country. In 2017, Turkey opened a military base in Mogadishu to train Somali soldiers. The checkpoint is also a tax collection point for the government, Ali Abdi Ali Hoshow, a foreign affairs ministry official, said on Twitter. 'Screaming for help' After the explosion, 55-year-old Sabdow Ali, who lives nearby, said he left his house and counted at least 13 people dead. "Dozens of injured people were screaming for help but the police immediately opened fire and I rushed back to my house," he told Reuters. The injured were transported to Medina Hospital, where a Reuters witness saw dozens arriving by ambulance. A nurse at the hospital, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the facility had received more than 100 wounded people. Relatives gathered at the hospital, weeping outside the entrance as they sought information on their loved ones. Speaking to reporters at the blast site, Mogadishu Mayor Omar Muhamoud said the government confirmed at least 90 civilians, mostly students, had been injured. Police officials were not immediately available for comment on casualty numbers. The Horn of Africa country has been riven by conflict since 1991, when clan warlords overthrew dictator Siad Barre and then turned on each other. Al Shabaab grew out of a political movement that used Islamic courts to try to impose order on the country. U.S.-backed Ethiopian soldiers defeated the Islamic Courts Union in 2006, but the movement's youth wing split off and launched an insurgency. Al Shabaab pledged loyalty to al Qaeda in 2012, as the insurgency battled African Union peacekeepers. The group has also carried out attacks in east African countries such as Kenya and Uganda.

At least 90 people killed in Mogadishu checkpoint blast in Somalia: Report

The United Nations General Assembly on Friday adopted a $3.07 billion operating budget which for the first time includes funding for the investigation of war crimes in Syria and Myanmar.

The budget represents a slight increase from 2019's figure of $2.9 billion.

The increase is due to additional missions assigned to the UN Secretariat, inflation and exchange rate adjustments, according to diplomats.

These include the observer mission in Yemen, a political mission established in Haiti, the investigation of crimes committed in Syria since the outbreak of civil war in 2011, and in Myanmar after the 2017 crackdown on the Rohingya Muslim minority.

For the first time, the budgets for the Syria and Myanmar investigations -- which were previously financed by voluntary contributions -- will in 2020 be transferred to the UN secretariat's budget and will receive compulsory contributions from the 193 member states.

Russia proposed multiple amendments during negotiations in the Committee on Budgetary Questions meeting and in the General Assembly plenary session.

At each vote, Russia, Syria, Myanmar and their supporters, including North Korea, Iran, Nicaragua and Venezuela, were outvoted. They all stated that they dissociated themselves from references to investigative mechanisms in the adopted resolutions.

Russia said it would examine its future obligatory payments in light of the vote outcome and predicted an increase in the arrears that currently plague the UN's treasury due to countries not paying enough.

Moscow argued Friday the investigative mechanism was illegitimate, while Damascus stressed that it had no mandate from the Security Council.

The UN's operating budget is separate from the annual budget for peacekeeping operations of some $6 billion that is adopted in June.

The United Nations General Assembly on Friday adopted a $3.07 billion operating budget which for the first time includes funding for the investigation of war crimes in Syria and Myanmar.

The United Nations General Assembly on Friday adopted a $3.07 billion operating budget which for the first time includes funding for the investigation of war crimes in Syria and Myanmar. The budget represents a slight increase from 2019's figure of $2.9 billion. The increase is due to additional missions assigned to the UN Secretariat, inflation and exchange rate adjustments, according to diplomats. These include the observer mission in Yemen, a political mission established in Haiti, the investigation of crimes committed in Syria since the outbreak of civil war in 2011, and in Myanmar after the 2017 crackdown on the Rohingya Muslim minority. For the first time, the budgets for the Syria and Myanmar investigations -- which were previously financed by voluntary contributions -- will in 2020 be transferred to the UN secretariat's budget and will receive compulsory contributions from the 193 member states. Russia proposed multiple amendments during negotiations in the Committee on Budgetary Questions meeting and in the General Assembly plenary session. At each vote, Russia, Syria, Myanmar and their supporters, including North Korea, Iran, Nicaragua and Venezuela, were outvoted. They all stated that they dissociated themselves from references to investigative mechanisms in the adopted resolutions. Russia said it would examine its future obligatory payments in light of the vote outcome and predicted an increase in the arrears that currently plague the UN's treasury due to countries not paying enough. Moscow argued Friday the investigative mechanism was illegitimate, while Damascus stressed that it had no mandate from the Security Council. The UN's operating budget is separate from the annual budget for peacekeeping operations of some $6 billion that is adopted in June.

UN ups 2020 budget, includes funds for war crimes probes

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