In yet another gaffe, US President Joe Biden left the internet baffled after he seemingly forgot Palestinian militant group Hamas' name during a press conference.

He was asked a question about the Israel-Hamas truce negotiations at the presser after he delivered a speech on a new border security bill on Tuesday (Feb 6) when the goof-up happened.

<h2>What did Biden say?</h2>

In the video, which is doing rounds on social media, Biden was heard saying, “There is some movement, and I don’t wanna, I don’t wanna …, let me choose my words — there’s some movement, there’s been.. a response from the, uh..”&nbsp;

“There’s been a response … from … the opposition, but, um —” the 81-year-old said.

Seemingly confused Biden, after some guidance said, "Yes I am sorry, from Hamas."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-rejects-bipartisan-bill-on-immigration-aid-for-israel-and-ukraine-688017">Republicans in US Senate block Bipartisan bill on immigration, aid for Israel and Ukraine</a>

<h2>'Shame on all of you pretending everything is ok,' says Dean Phillips</h2>

Democratic presidential challenger Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn) took to his official X account and shared the video saying,&nbsp;“I’m attacked for being honest and saying the quiet part out loud - the part DC insiders only do in private.”

“I admire our President. I voted for him and campaigned for him. He has visited my home and been gracious to my family and our country,”&nbsp;Phillips said.

“But shame on all of you pretending everything is ok. You are leading us - and him - into a disaster, and you damn well know it,” he added.

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I’m attacked for being honest and saying the quiet part out loud - the part DC insiders only do in private. 
 
I admire our President. I voted for him and campaigned for him. He has visited my home and been gracious to my family and our country. 
 
But shame on all of you pretending… <a href="https://t.co/OdaKvW7vbc">pic.twitter.com/OdaKvW7vbc</a>
— Dean Phillips (@deanbphillips) <a href="https://twitter.com/deanbphillips/status/1754948258571407570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>'Biden is unwell,' argue netizens</h2>

The video, after going viral, sparked a debate on the internet with some users saying that the US president was unwell and unfit to run for another term.

One user wrote, "It's sad to watch and scary at the same time. I'm not a Biden supporter based on his policies and time in office, but what is happening is terrifying and, frankly, elder abuse.”

“I was a nurse in an Alzheimer's unit in Florida... I know what I'm seeing,” said a netizen.

While another wrote, “We have a minimum age to be president, why not a maximum age? Either get rid of age discrimination altogether or set an upper and lower threshold for the role of congress, senate, and presidency.”

“He belongs to nursing home, not WH. 25 Amendment now. I dare you,” said while user, while another wrote in part, “I’m so tired of all of this … he is not well and CAN NOT be POTUS. I see attacks on “Maga"&nbsp;all the time, with insults like “it’s a cult” .. but as an independent.. I see just as much “cult-like"&nbsp;propaganda coming for the left.. if not more.”

This is not the first time Biden has been ridiculed for his goof-ups.

Recently, he confused his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron with France’s former leader Francois Mitterrand who died nearly three decades ago, during a recent speech.

While addressing a crowd in Las Vegas ahead of the US state of Nevada’s primary on Tuesday (Feb 6), where he intended to say something that Macron had told him at a G7 meeting in 2020, the 81-year-old not only mixed up his French counterpart’s name but also misstated the name of the country he leads.&nbsp;

“It was in the south of England. And I sat down and I said, ‘America is back,’ and Mitterrand from Germany, I mean from France, looked at me and said – said, ‘you know what – why – how long you back for?’” said Biden according to a White House transcript.

He added, “And I looked at him, and the — and the Chancellor of Germany said, ‘What would you say, Mr President, if you picked up the paper tomorrow in the London Times, and London Times said, ‘A thousand people break through the House of Commons, break down the doors, two Bobbies are killed in order to stop the election of the Prime Minister.’ What would you say?”

“I never thought about it from that perspective,” Biden said. “What would we say if that happened in another democracy around the world?”

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

In yet another gaffe, US President Joe Biden left the internet baffled after he seemingly forgot Palestinian militant group Hamas' name during a press conference.

In yet another gaffe, US President Joe Biden left the internet baffled after he seemingly forgot Palestinian militant group Hamas' name during a press conference. He was asked a question about the Israel-Hamas truce negotiations at the presser after he delivered a speech on a new border security bill on Tuesday (Feb 6) when the goof-up happened. What did Biden say? In the video, which is doing rounds on social media, Biden was heard saying, “There is some movement, and I don’t wanna, I don’t wanna …, let me choose my words — there’s some movement, there’s been.. a response from the, uh..” “There’s been a response … from … the opposition, but, um —” the 81-year-old said. Seemingly confused Biden, after some guidance said, "Yes I am sorry, from Hamas." Also read: Republicans in US Senate block Bipartisan bill on immigration, aid for Israel and Ukraine 'Shame on all of you pretending everything is ok,' says Dean Phillips Democratic presidential challenger Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn) took to his official X account and shared the video saying, “I’m attacked for being honest and saying the quiet part out loud - the part DC insiders only do in private.” “I admire our President. I voted for him and campaigned for him. He has visited my home and been gracious to my family and our country,” Phillips said. “But shame on all of you pretending everything is ok. You are leading us - and him - into a disaster, and you damn well know it,” he added. I’m attacked for being honest and saying the quiet part out loud - the part DC insiders only do in private. I admire our President. I voted for him and campaigned for him. He has visited my home and been gracious to my family and our country. But shame on all of you pretending… pic.twitter.com/OdaKvW7vbc — Dean Phillips (@deanbphillips) February 6, 2024 × 'Biden is unwell,' argue netizens The video, after going viral, sparked a debate on the internet with some users saying that the US president was unwell and unfit to run for another term. One user wrote, "It's sad to watch and scary at the same time. I'm not a Biden supporter based on his policies and time in office, but what is happening is terrifying and, frankly, elder abuse.” “I was a nurse in an Alzheimer's unit in Florida... I know what I'm seeing,” said a netizen. While another wrote, “We have a minimum age to be president, why not a maximum age? Either get rid of age discrimination altogether or set an upper and lower threshold for the role of congress, senate, and presidency.” “He belongs to nursing home, not WH. 25 Amendment now. I dare you,” said while user, while another wrote in part, “I’m so tired of all of this … he is not well and CAN NOT be POTUS. I see attacks on “Maga" all the time, with insults like “it’s a cult” .. but as an independent.. I see just as much “cult-like" propaganda coming for the left.. if not more.” This is not the first time Biden has been ridiculed for his goof-ups. Recently, he confused his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron with France’s former leader Francois Mitterrand who died nearly three decades ago, during a recent speech. While addressing a crowd in Las Vegas ahead of the US state of Nevada’s primary on Tuesday (Feb 6), where he intended to say something that Macron had told him at a G7 meeting in 2020, the 81-year-old not only mixed up his French counterpart’s name but also misstated the name of the country he leads. “It was in the south of England. And I sat down and I said, ‘America is back,’ and Mitterrand from Germany, I mean from France, looked at me and said – said, ‘you know what – why – how long you back for?’” said Biden according to a White House transcript. He added, “And I looked at him, and the — and the Chancellor of Germany said, ‘What would you say, Mr President, if you picked up the paper tomorrow in the London Times, and London Times said, ‘A thousand people break through the House of Commons, break down the doors, two Bobbies are killed in order to stop the election of the Prime Minister.’ What would you say?” “I never thought about it from that perspective,” Biden said. “What would we say if that happened in another democracy around the world?” (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden gets ridiculed online after struggling to recall Hamas' name during speech

WION morning brief:&nbsp;Pakistan is going to polls on Thursday (Feb 8) after months of delay&nbsp;which critics say is aimed at ensuring the election of candidates favoured by the country's army. On the eve of polls, the country was rocked by multiple bomb blasts in front of the offices of some independent candidates. In other news, Republican politician and US presidential contender Nikki Haley&nbsp;said India perceives Washington as 'weak', which is one of the reasons why New Delhi has allied with Russia.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-election-2024-live-in-backdrop-of-violence-bomb-blasts-pakistan-set-to-vote-688026">Pakistan Elections 2024: 'Beginning of rigging' feared as voting begins</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/08/410722-untitled-design-2024-02-08t085513872.png?imwidth=500" />

Former Pakistan People's Party senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar described shutting down of mobile services as the "beginning of rigging" on election day. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) slammed the suspension of mobile phone services, including the internet, and urged people to remove personal WiFi passwords so that people are able to access the internet.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-aligned-with-russia-as-it-perceives-us-weak-and-untrustworthy-says-nikki-haley-688050">India aligned with Russia as it sees US 'weak' and untrustworthy: Nikki Haley</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/24/353921-new-wion-2023-05-24t010135005.png?imwidth=500" />

Republican politician and US presidential contender Nikki Haley has said India perceives Washington as 'weak', which is one of the reasons why New Delhi&nbsp;has allied&nbsp;with Russia.&nbsp;Speaking to&nbsp;Fox Business News, the Indian-American presidential aspirant lauded India&nbsp;for 'playing smart' in the current global situation and choosing its allies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-gets-ridiculed-as-he-struggles-to-recall-hamas-name-during-speech-688065">Joe Biden gets ridiculed as he struggles to recall Hamas' name during speech</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/08/410726-succession-2024-02-08t085802268.jpg?imwidth=500" />

In yet another gaffe, US President Joe Biden left the internet baffled after he seemingly forgot Palestinian militant group Hamas' name during a press conference.&nbsp;He was asked a question about the Israel-Hamas truce negotiations at the presser after he delivered a speech on a new border security bill on Tuesday (Feb 6) when the goof-up happened.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-indian-origin-student-sameer-kamath-had-shot-himself-officials-688075">US: Indian-origin student Sameer Kamath had 'shot himself': officials</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/07/410528-pic.png?imwidth=500" />

A 23-year-old Indian-American student Sameer Kamath from Purdue University, who was found dead by the officials in a nature preserve in Indiana this week, had shot himself in the head with a gun, said the authorities.&nbsp;Sameer Kamath, who is a US citizen, was discovered dead in the woods on February 5 at 5 pm local time in NICHES Land Trust - Crow's Grove in Williamsport, Indiana.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-strike-in-iraqi-capital-kills-leaders-of-iran-linked-militia-reports-688019">US drone strike in Iraqi capital kills leader of Iran-linked militia</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/08/410706-wion-images-2024-02-08t020121580.png?imwidth=500" />

A senior commander of Kataib Hezbollah – an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon linked to the fatal attack that killed three American troops in Jordan – was killed&nbsp;in a drone strike on a vehicle in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday (Feb 7) night,&nbsp;the US military said.

Watch: Pakistan general elections 2024: Mobile phone services suspended across Pakistan as voting begins

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&nbsp;

WION morning brief: Pakistan is going to polls on Thursday (Feb 8) after months of delay which critics say is aimed at ensuring the election of candidates favoured by the country's army.

WION morning brief: Pakistan is going to polls on Thursday (Feb 8) after months of delay which critics say is aimed at ensuring the election of candidates favoured by the country's army. On the eve of polls, the country was rocked by multiple bomb blasts in front of the offices of some independent candidates. In other news, Republican politician and US presidential contender Nikki Haley said India perceives Washington as 'weak', which is one of the reasons why New Delhi has allied with Russia. Click on the headlines to read more. Pakistan Elections 2024: 'Beginning of rigging' feared as voting begins Former Pakistan People's Party senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar described shutting down of mobile services as the "beginning of rigging" on election day. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) slammed the suspension of mobile phone services, including the internet, and urged people to remove personal WiFi passwords so that people are able to access the internet. India aligned with Russia as it sees US 'weak' and untrustworthy: Nikki Haley Republican politician and US presidential contender Nikki Haley has said India perceives Washington as 'weak', which is one of the reasons why New Delhi has allied with Russia. Speaking to Fox Business News, the Indian-American presidential aspirant lauded India for 'playing smart' in the current global situation and choosing its allies. Joe Biden gets ridiculed as he struggles to recall Hamas' name during speech In yet another gaffe, US President Joe Biden left the internet baffled after he seemingly forgot Palestinian militant group Hamas' name during a press conference. He was asked a question about the Israel-Hamas truce negotiations at the presser after he delivered a speech on a new border security bill on Tuesday (Feb 6) when the goof-up happened. US: Indian-origin student Sameer Kamath had 'shot himself': officials A 23-year-old Indian-American student Sameer Kamath from Purdue University, who was found dead by the officials in a nature preserve in Indiana this week, had shot himself in the head with a gun, said the authorities. Sameer Kamath, who is a US citizen, was discovered dead in the woods on February 5 at 5 pm local time in NICHES Land Trust - Crow's Grove in Williamsport, Indiana. US drone strike in Iraqi capital kills leader of Iran-linked militia A senior commander of Kataib Hezbollah – an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon linked to the fatal attack that killed three American troops in Jordan – was killed in a drone strike on a vehicle in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday (Feb 7) night, the US military said. Watch: Pakistan general elections 2024: Mobile phone services suspended across Pakistan as voting begins ×

Morning news brief: Voting begins in Pakistan; Nikki Haley says India perceives Washington as 'weak', and more

Repeated US&nbsp;strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq are pushing the government to end the mission of the US-led coalition in the country, the prime minister's military spokesman Yahya Rasool said on Thursday.

The US&nbsp;military said a strike on Wednesday killed a commander from Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon has blamed for attacking its troops.

Rasool said in a statement that the US-led coalition "has become a factor for instability and threatens to entangle Iraq in the cycle of conflict."

The US-led international military coalition in Iraq was set up to fight Islamic State. The United States has 2,500 troops in Iraq, advising and assisting local forces to prevent a resurgence of the group.

Since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began in October, Iraq and Syria have witnessed almost daily tit-for-tat attacks between hardline Iran-backed armed groups and US&nbsp;forces stationed in the region.

Repeated US strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq are pushing the government to end the mission of the US-led coalition in the country, the prime minister's military spokesman Yahya Rasool said on Thursday.

Repeated US strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq are pushing the government to end the mission of the US-led coalition in the country, the prime minister's military spokesman Yahya Rasool said on Thursday. The US military said a strike on Wednesday killed a commander from Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon has blamed for attacking its troops. Rasool said in a statement that the US-led coalition "has become a factor for instability and threatens to entangle Iraq in the cycle of conflict." The US-led international military coalition in Iraq was set up to fight Islamic State. The United States has 2,500 troops in Iraq, advising and assisting local forces to prevent a resurgence of the group. Since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began in October, Iraq and Syria have witnessed almost daily tit-for-tat attacks between hardline Iran-backed armed groups and US forces stationed in the region.

American strikes pushing government to end US-led coalition's mission: Iraq

An Indian-American&nbsp;student, who was completing his doctorate in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, was found dead in a nature preserve on Monday evening (Feb 5), reported the Warren County Coroner’s office.

The 23-year-old student, identified as Sameer Kamath, had US citizenship and had completed his master’s degree in mechanical engineering in August 2023 from Purdue University, confirmed the coroner’s office.

He is the second&nbsp;Indian-American student from&nbsp;Purdue University who died under mysterious circumstances in the last few weeks, after&nbsp;Neel Acharya.&nbsp;

Kamath's body was found at the Crow’s Grove Nature Preserve around 5 pm (local time) on Monday (Feb 5). Crow’s Grove Nature Preserve is part of the Niches Land Trust which is located at 3300 North Warren County Road 50 West, in Williamsport.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-indian-student-brutally-attacked-robbed-in-chicago-indias-consulate-responds-687654">US: Indian student brutally attacked, robbed in Chicago; India’s consulate responds</a>

A press release regarding the death of the Indian-American student was released by Warren County Coroner Justin Brummett on Tuesday afternoon (Feb 6).

Kamath received his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and enrolled at Purdue in 2021.

As per his LinkedIn profile, he was set to graduate from the doctoral programme in 2025.&nbsp;

<h2>Death, attack cases involving Indian students rise in the US</h2>

The new death comes in the wake of Indian or Indian-origin students in the US facing increasing attacks in the United States.

Indian student Syed Mazahir Ali's video surfaced on Wednesday (Feb 7) in which he was seen bleeding profusely and desperately pleading for help in Chicago after getting attacked by robbers.

This was the fourth such case to have emerged in recent days. Another 19-year-old student, Shreyas Reddy Beniger, who held an American passport, was found dead last week. The authorities ruled out any foul play.

Watch:&nbsp;US: 3 Indian students killed within a week

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Neel Acharya, another student of Purdue University, was found dead on the campus, hours after he was reported missing by his mother.

A 25-year-old student, Vivek Saini from Haryana, was hammered to death in Georgia's Lithonia by a homeless man on January 16.

Another Indian student, Akul Dhawan, was found dead outside the campus of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in January.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian-American student, who was completing his doctorate in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, was found dead in a nature preserve on Monday evening (Feb 5), reported the Warren County Coroner’s office.

An Indian-American student, who was completing his doctorate in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, was found dead in a nature preserve on Monday evening (Feb 5), reported the Warren County Coroner’s office. The 23-year-old student, identified as Sameer Kamath, had US citizenship and had completed his master’s degree in mechanical engineering in August 2023 from Purdue University, confirmed the coroner’s office. He is the second Indian-American student from Purdue University who died under mysterious circumstances in the last few weeks, after Neel Acharya. Kamath's body was found at the Crow’s Grove Nature Preserve around 5 pm (local time) on Monday (Feb 5). Crow’s Grove Nature Preserve is part of the Niches Land Trust which is located at 3300 North Warren County Road 50 West, in Williamsport. Also read: US: Indian student brutally attacked, robbed in Chicago; India’s consulate responds A press release regarding the death of the Indian-American student was released by Warren County Coroner Justin Brummett on Tuesday afternoon (Feb 6). Kamath received his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and enrolled at Purdue in 2021. As per his LinkedIn profile, he was set to graduate from the doctoral programme in 2025. Death, attack cases involving Indian students rise in the US The new death comes in the wake of Indian or Indian-origin students in the US facing increasing attacks in the United States. Indian student Syed Mazahir Ali's video surfaced on Wednesday (Feb 7) in which he was seen bleeding profusely and desperately pleading for help in Chicago after getting attacked by robbers. This was the fourth such case to have emerged in recent days. Another 19-year-old student, Shreyas Reddy Beniger, who held an American passport, was found dead last week. The authorities ruled out any foul play. Watch: US: 3 Indian students killed within a week Neel Acharya, another student of Purdue University, was found dead on the campus, hours after he was reported missing by his mother. A 25-year-old student, Vivek Saini from Haryana, was hammered to death in Georgia's Lithonia by a homeless man on January 16. Another Indian student, Akul Dhawan, was found dead outside the campus of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in January. (With inputs from agencies)

Another Indian-origin student dies in United States in fifth such case this year

The United States military on Tuesday (Feb 6) said they launched a strike against two Houthi drones in Yemen in "self-defence" after a drone attack hit a base housing the US troops in Syria.

Taking to X, US Central Command said, "US forces identified the explosive USVs in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to US navy ships and merchant vessels in the region."&nbsp;

“These actions will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer,” it added.&nbsp;

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CENTCOM Self-Defense Strikes 
 
On Feb. 5, at approximately 3:30 p.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. Central Command forces conducted a strike in self-defense against two Houthi explosive uncrewed surface vehicles (USV). 
 
U.S. forces identified the explosive USVs in Houthi-controlled areas of… <a href="https://t.co/WMntzJOnw6">pic.twitter.com/WMntzJOnw6</a>
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1754682282680402059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Six Kurdish fighters were earlier killed in a drone attack at the training ground at al-Omar base in the eastern province of Deir el-Zour, Syria, said the US-backed and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-carries-out-strikes-against-five-missiles-in-yemen-687077">Middle East crisis: US carries out strikes against five missiles in Yemen</a>

The group accused “Syrian regime-backed mercenaries” of launching the attack. No casualties were reported&nbsp;among the US troops.&nbsp;

This came as the United States carried out fresh strikes against a Houthi land attack cruise missile in Yemen on February 4, as per the US Central Command.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a meeting with Saudi Arabia‘s crown prince in his fifth visit to the region since the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.

<h2>US admits not giving any notice of strikes to Iraq&nbsp;</h2>

The United States accepted that it did not notify the Iraqi government before carrying out the recent air strikes in the country.&nbsp;

State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel on Monday (Feb 5) accepted that the Iraqi officials were informed only after the strikes were carried out on Iranian-linked targets.

“Iraq, like every country in the region, understood that there would be a response after the deaths of our soldiers. As for this specific response on Friday, there was not a pre-notification,” said Patel, while speaking to the reporters.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;How does the US earn from wars?

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“We informed the Iraqis immediately after the strikes occurred," he said,&nbsp;

The clarification was given after White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Friday (Feb 2) stated that Washington had informed the Iraqi government regarding the strike in advance.

On Monday, Kirby said that he had responded to questions from the reporters with the “information that I had been provided at the time”.

“It was not as specific as it could have been, and I regret any confusion caused,” Kirby said.

“That said, we had made no secret – both to Iraqi officials and in public channels – that we would respond to the attacks on our troops. And, we did, in fact, officially notify Iraq, as appropriate with standard procedure," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United States military on Tuesday (Feb 6) said they launched a strike against two Houthi drones in Yemen in "self-defence" after a drone attack hit a base housing the US troops in Syria.

The United States military on Tuesday (Feb 6) said they launched a strike against two Houthi drones in Yemen in "self-defence" after a drone attack hit a base housing the US troops in Syria. Taking to X, US Central Command said, "US forces identified the explosive USVs in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to US navy ships and merchant vessels in the region." “These actions will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer,” it added. CENTCOM Self-Defense Strikes On Feb. 5, at approximately 3:30 p.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. Central Command forces conducted a strike in self-defense against two Houthi explosive uncrewed surface vehicles (USV). U.S. forces identified the explosive USVs in Houthi-controlled areas of… pic.twitter.com/WMntzJOnw6 — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) February 6, 2024 × Six Kurdish fighters were earlier killed in a drone attack at the training ground at al-Omar base in the eastern province of Deir el-Zour, Syria, said the US-backed and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. Also read: Middle East crisis: US carries out strikes against five missiles in Yemen The group accused “Syrian regime-backed mercenaries” of launching the attack. No casualties were reported among the US troops. This came as the United States carried out fresh strikes against a Houthi land attack cruise missile in Yemen on February 4, as per the US Central Command. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a meeting with Saudi Arabia‘s crown prince in his fifth visit to the region since the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. US admits not giving any notice of strikes to Iraq The United States accepted that it did not notify the Iraqi government before carrying out the recent air strikes in the country. State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel on Monday (Feb 5) accepted that the Iraqi officials were informed only after the strikes were carried out on Iranian-linked targets. “Iraq, like every country in the region, understood that there would be a response after the deaths of our soldiers. As for this specific response on Friday, there was not a pre-notification,” said Patel, while speaking to the reporters. Watch: How does the US earn from wars? “We informed the Iraqis immediately after the strikes occurred," he said, The clarification was given after White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Friday (Feb 2) stated that Washington had informed the Iraqi government regarding the strike in advance. On Monday, Kirby said that he had responded to questions from the reporters with the “information that I had been provided at the time”. “It was not as specific as it could have been, and I regret any confusion caused,” Kirby said. “That said, we had made no secret – both to Iraqi officials and in public channels – that we would respond to the attacks on our troops. And, we did, in fact, officially notify Iraq, as appropriate with standard procedure," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis: US strikes two Houthi drones in Yemen in 'self-defence'

Three members of an air ambulance crew were killed when their helicopter crashed on late January 20 in Oklahoma, local officials said. A goose was likely behind the crash.&nbsp;

US-based National Transportation Safety Board said in its preliminary report that a dead goose was found in part of the flight control system of a medical helicopter.&nbsp;

The crash was reported near Weatherford. The control centre said it lost contact with the Air Evac Lifeteam helicopter crew shortly before 11:30 pm (local time), the company said in a statement Sunday.&nbsp;

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The report does not specify a specific reason for the disaster, but it does mention that one goose was found in the helicopter's flight control system and others in the debris field. According to the NTSB, a report on the probable cause could take up to two years to complete.&nbsp;

The helicopter crashed when it was returning to Weatherford after taking a patient to an Oklahoma City hospital. The pilot and both Air Evac Lifeteam crew members, a flight nurse and a paramedic, were killed.&nbsp;

The company had written on the social media platform Facebook, "Air Evac Lifeteam is heartbroken to report that three crew members have perished in an incident that occurred on Saturday, January 20."&nbsp;

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Air Evac is an EMS and air ambulance provider that operates out of 150 bases in more than a dozen US states, including Oklahoma.&nbsp;

Nearby Air Evac crews supported law enforcement in their search for the crew members. In the preliminary report, the company did not reveal where the Bell 206L3 was exactly discovered.&nbsp;

Air Evac had said, "Our primary focus is on supporting the families and our team members. At this time, we are not sharing the names of the crew members aboard the flight. We ask that you respect the privacy of our team members and their families, and please do not share their names."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Three members of an air ambulance crew were killed when their helicopter crashed on late January 20 in Oklahoma, local officials said. A goose was likely behind the crash.

Three members of an air ambulance crew were killed when their helicopter crashed on late January 20 in Oklahoma, local officials said. A goose was likely behind the crash. US-based National Transportation Safety Board said in its preliminary report that a dead goose was found in part of the flight control system of a medical helicopter. The crash was reported near Weatherford. The control centre said it lost contact with the Air Evac Lifeteam helicopter crew shortly before 11:30 pm (local time), the company said in a statement Sunday. Also read: Kicked out of plane for being Jew? US couple files $40mn lawsuit against JetBlue Airways The report does not specify a specific reason for the disaster, but it does mention that one goose was found in the helicopter's flight control system and others in the debris field. According to the NTSB, a report on the probable cause could take up to two years to complete. The helicopter crashed when it was returning to Weatherford after taking a patient to an Oklahoma City hospital. The pilot and both Air Evac Lifeteam crew members, a flight nurse and a paramedic, were killed. The company had written on the social media platform Facebook, "Air Evac Lifeteam is heartbroken to report that three crew members have perished in an incident that occurred on Saturday, January 20." Also read: Paris votes to hike SUV parking fees. This is the WHOPPING charges to be paid Air Evac is an EMS and air ambulance provider that operates out of 150 bases in more than a dozen US states, including Oklahoma. Nearby Air Evac crews supported law enforcement in their search for the crew members. In the preliminary report, the company did not reveal where the Bell 206L3 was exactly discovered. Air Evac had said, "Our primary focus is on supporting the families and our team members. At this time, we are not sharing the names of the crew members aboard the flight. We ask that you respect the privacy of our team members and their families, and please do not share their names." (With inputs from agencies)

A goose? What led to helicopter crash that killed three in US

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her primary prosecutor on the 2020 election case Nathan Wade, admitted in the court documents about having a "personal" relationship.

However, Willis vehemently refuted allegations that she benefited financially from employing Wade.

Wade's declaration is included in the filing from Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election. Wade states that in 2022 he and Willis

The court filing by Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election, comprises a declaration from Wade that claims he and Willis in 2022, “developed a personal relationship in addition to our professional association and friendship.”&nbsp;

Wade denied that he had "shared with or provided to" Willis any of his gains from the case.

“The District Attorney received no funds or personal financial gain from my position as Special Prosecutor,” he said.

Willis also stated their “personal relationship … has never involved direct or indirect financial benefit to District Attorney Willis.”

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“While the allegations raised in the various motions are salacious and garnered the media attention they were designed to obtain, none provide this Court with any basis upon which to order the relief they seek,” the filing stated.

Willis stated in her writing that she has no financial or personal conflicts of interest and that defence lawyers did not establish the legal foundation for disqualification, that “constitutes a legal basis for disqualification,” and that she “has made no public statements that warrant disqualification or judicial inquiry.”

The motion also upheld Wade, stating that the attacks on his qualifications are “factually inaccurate, unsupported, and malicious, in addition to providing no basis whatsoever to dismiss the indictment or disqualify Special Prosecutor Wade.”

“Defendants do not point to any action taken by the District Attorney or any of her staff that has been outside the character of an officer of the law specially charged to oversee either the special purpose grand jury’s investigation or the prosecution of these Defendants,” the motion reads.

“Instead, the motions attempt to cobble together entirely unremarkable circumstances of Special Prosecutor Wade’s appointment with completely irrelevant allegations about his personal family life into a manufactured conflict of interest on the part of the District Attorney. The effort must fail.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her primary prosecutor on the 2020 election case Nathan Wade, admitted in the court documents about having a "personal" relationship.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her primary prosecutor on the 2020 election case Nathan Wade, admitted in the court documents about having a "personal" relationship. However, Willis vehemently refuted allegations that she benefited financially from employing Wade. Wade's declaration is included in the filing from Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election. Wade states that in 2022 he and Willis The court filing by Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election, comprises a declaration from Wade that claims he and Willis in 2022, “developed a personal relationship in addition to our professional association and friendship.” Wade denied that he had "shared with or provided to" Willis any of his gains from the case. “The District Attorney received no funds or personal financial gain from my position as Special Prosecutor,” he said. Willis also stated their “personal relationship … has never involved direct or indirect financial benefit to District Attorney Willis.” Also read: Indian Navy rescues Pakistani, Iranian crew members along east coast of Somalia “While the allegations raised in the various motions are salacious and garnered the media attention they were designed to obtain, none provide this Court with any basis upon which to order the relief they seek,” the filing stated. Willis stated in her writing that she has no financial or personal conflicts of interest and that defence lawyers did not establish the legal foundation for disqualification, that “constitutes a legal basis for disqualification,” and that she “has made no public statements that warrant disqualification or judicial inquiry.” The motion also upheld Wade, stating that the attacks on his qualifications are “factually inaccurate, unsupported, and malicious, in addition to providing no basis whatsoever to dismiss the indictment or disqualify Special Prosecutor Wade.” “Defendants do not point to any action taken by the District Attorney or any of her staff that has been outside the character of an officer of the law specially charged to oversee either the special purpose grand jury’s investigation or the prosecution of these Defendants,” the motion reads. “Instead, the motions attempt to cobble together entirely unremarkable circumstances of Special Prosecutor Wade’s appointment with completely irrelevant allegations about his personal family life into a manufactured conflict of interest on the part of the District Attorney. The effort must fail.” (With inputs from agencies)

Fulton County DA Fani Willis acknowledges personal relationship with lead prosecutor in Trump Georgia case

FBI Director Christopher Wray on Wednesday (Jan 31) warned that Chinese hackers have been preparing to “wreak havoc and cause real-world harm” to the US. “China’s hackers are positioning on American infrastructure in preparation to wreak havoc and cause real-world harm to American citizens and communities, if or when China decides the time has come to strike,” Wray said while speaking to the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.

FBI Director Christopher Wray on Wednesday (Jan 31) warned that Chinese hackers have been preparing to “wreak havoc and cause real-world harm” to the US. “China’s hackers are positioning on American infrastructure in preparation to wreak havoc and cause real-world harm to American citizens and communities, if or when China decides the time has come to strike,” Wray said while speaking to the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party. Although an alarm regarding China’s offensive cyber capabilities has been sounded earlier by the cyber officials, Wray’s dramatic public warning emphasised on huge level of concern among the top officials regarding the threats that the Chinese hackers are posing to critical infrastructure nationwide. The National Security Agency's head and other senior US officials also testified over Chinese cyber activity in front of the panel on Wednesday. Also read: Xi Jinping welcomes Taliban ambassador to China as Kabul-Beijing ties move forward Wray said that the Chinese government-backed hackers have been targeting things like electrical infrastructure, oil and natural gas pipelines and water treatment plants. The Chinese hackers have been working “to find and prepare to destroy or degrade the civilian critical infrastructure that keeps us safe and prosperous,” said Wray. “And let’s be clear: Cyber threats to our critical infrastructure represent real world threats to our physical safety," he added. Earlier, the Chinese government has previously denied allegations regarding hacking efforts. Chinese cyber actors took advantage of flaws in US technology The hearing took place in the wake of efforts being made by US and Chinese officials to ease tensions in the relationship between the two countries. Speaking about the assurances given by China at the House hearing, Wray said, “China’s promised a lot of things over the years, so I’ll guess I’ll believe it when I see it.” The hearing's focus was not on US elections but on how Chinese hackers have been allegedly burrowing in computer networks at energy plants, ports and other key infrastructure in the United States. Watch: Gravitas | U.S. disables pervasive chinese hacking campaign “The truth is the Chinese cyber actors have taken advantage of very basic flaws in our technology. We have made it easy on them,” Jen Easterly, who headed the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, said to the lawmakers. “Unfortunately, the technology underpinning our critical infrastructure is inherently insecure because of decades of software developers not being held liable for defective technology. That has led to incentives where features and speed to market have been prioritized against security, leading our nation vulnerable to cyber invasion. That has to stop,” Easterly said. The FBI and Justice Department have earlier emphasised on preventing malign campaigns which are being run by the Chinese government and hackers. (With inputs from agencies)

FBI chief warns Chinese hackers 'wreaking havoc' on US critical infrastructure

The US State Department expressed optimism about the proposed drone deal with India, emphasising its "significant potential" to advance strategic technology cooperation. 
The deal was announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit last year, marking substantial growth in the US-India defence partnership over the past decade. 
Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the US State Department, highlighted the importance of the deal in furthering strategic technology cooperation with India and enhancing military collaboration in the region.

While addressing the media, Miller said, "So I'll say that generally, the US-India Defence Partnership has seen significant growth over the past decade. This is a proposed sale that was announced during Prime Minister Modi's visit last year."

"We believe it offers significant potential to further advance strategic technology cooperation with India and military cooperation in the region," he added. 
He also acknowledged the crucial role of Congress in the arms transfer process, emphasising routine consultations with members of Congress on foreign affairs committees before formal notifications.

"Of course, Congress plays an important role in the US arms transfer process. We routinely consult with members of Congress on the foreign affairs committees before our formal notification so we can address questions that they might have. But I don't have any comment on when that formal notification might take place," Miller also said. 
The proposed drone deal is part of the broader efforts to strengthen defence ties between the United States and India. 
In June 2023, US President Joe Biden and PM Modi welcomed India's plans to procure Predator drones made by General Atomics, a mega pact that will allow American Navy ships to undertake major repairs at Indian shipyards.

President Biden and PM Modi welcomed India's plans to procure General Atomics MQ-9B HALE UAVs. The MQ-9Bs, assembled in India, will enhance the ISR capabilities of India's armed forces across domains. As part of this plan, General Atomics will also establish a comprehensive global MRO facility in India, according to the US-India joint statement.

The agreement would strengthen India's national security and surveillance capabilities, extending beyond the Indian Ocean and encompassing the border region with China. 
India shares vast maritime and land boundaries with two major adversaries--Pakistan and China--and requires constant monitoring of their activities to safeguard its national security interests.

The Quad grouping of countries - the United States, India, Australia and Japan - all operate, or have operated, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. Currently, India is leasing MQ-9Bs as part of an intelligence-gathering operation.

The Predators, also called the MQ-9 Reaper, can fly up to 36 hours at a stretch and can be used for focused monitoring of any specific point or area of interest. 
As many as 31 Predator drones, to be acquired by India from the US soon, would be operated by the tri-services jointly.

President Biden and Prime Minister Modi also hailed the landmark signing of an MoU between General Electric and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the manufacture of GE F-414 jet engines in India, for the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Light Combat Aircraft Mk 2, added the statement.

The US State Department expressed optimism about the proposed drone deal with India, emphasising its "significant potential" to advance strategic technology cooperation.

The US State Department expressed optimism about the proposed drone deal with India, emphasising its "significant potential" to advance strategic technology cooperation. The deal was announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit last year, marking substantial growth in the US-India defence partnership over the past decade. Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the US State Department, highlighted the importance of the deal in furthering strategic technology cooperation with India and enhancing military collaboration in the region. While addressing the media, Miller said, "So I'll say that generally, the US-India Defence Partnership has seen significant growth over the past decade. This is a proposed sale that was announced during Prime Minister Modi's visit last year." "We believe it offers significant potential to further advance strategic technology cooperation with India and military cooperation in the region," he added. He also acknowledged the crucial role of Congress in the arms transfer process, emphasising routine consultations with members of Congress on foreign affairs committees before formal notifications. "Of course, Congress plays an important role in the US arms transfer process. We routinely consult with members of Congress on the foreign affairs committees before our formal notification so we can address questions that they might have. But I don't have any comment on when that formal notification might take place," Miller also said. The proposed drone deal is part of the broader efforts to strengthen defence ties between the United States and India. In June 2023, US President Joe Biden and PM Modi welcomed India's plans to procure Predator drones made by General Atomics, a mega pact that will allow American Navy ships to undertake major repairs at Indian shipyards. President Biden and PM Modi welcomed India's plans to procure General Atomics MQ-9B HALE UAVs. The MQ-9Bs, assembled in India, will enhance the ISR capabilities of India's armed forces across domains. As part of this plan, General Atomics will also establish a comprehensive global MRO facility in India, according to the US-India joint statement. The agreement would strengthen India's national security and surveillance capabilities, extending beyond the Indian Ocean and encompassing the border region with China. India shares vast maritime and land boundaries with two major adversaries--Pakistan and China--and requires constant monitoring of their activities to safeguard its national security interests. The Quad grouping of countries - the United States, India, Australia and Japan - all operate, or have operated, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. Currently, India is leasing MQ-9Bs as part of an intelligence-gathering operation. The Predators, also called the MQ-9 Reaper, can fly up to 36 hours at a stretch and can be used for focused monitoring of any specific point or area of interest. As many as 31 Predator drones, to be acquired by India from the US soon, would be operated by the tri-services jointly. President Biden and Prime Minister Modi also hailed the landmark signing of an MoU between General Electric and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the manufacture of GE F-414 jet engines in India, for the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Light Combat Aircraft Mk 2, added the statement.

White House says 'significant potential' in US-India drone deal

In the wake of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) facing allegations of having ties with Hamas, the United States has decided to temporarily suspend approximately $300,000 in funding.&nbsp;

The step was taken after Israel claimed that the agency’s staff had been involved in the October 7 Hamas attacks, which raised concerns across the world and forced the UN to investigate the issue.&nbsp;

The pause in the funding was confirmed by State Department spokesperson Matt Miller, which was originally scheduled for delivery in the weeks ahead.&nbsp;

The US last week had announced that it is temporarily suspending the funding after reports emerged of UNRWA staff having potential links with the Hamas attacks.&nbsp;

The total impact of the pause is likely to depend on the amount which was authorised by Congress for the current fiscal year.&nbsp;

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As per Miller, the US has till now provided around USD 121 million worth of funds to UNRWA in the current fiscal year.&nbsp;

He further stressed the necessity of a thorough investigation into the allegations made against UNRWA and acknowledged the important role it has played in providing humanitarian support, which includes education, food relief and healthcare to Gaza's population.

The US and 34 other donor nations are set to hold a meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday (Jan 30).&nbsp;

<h2>Halting funds to UN refugee agency will be ‘catastrophic’: UN bodies</h2>

In a joint statement, the heads of multiple UN bodies on Wednesday (Jan 31) said that cutting off funding to the UNRWA will have "catastrophic consequences" for war-torn Gaza.

Watch:&nbsp;UNRWA crisis: After US, Germany &amp; other European nations suspend funding&nbsp;

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"Withdrawing funds from UNRWA is perilous and would result in the collapse of the humanitarian system in Gaza, with far-reaching humanitarian and human rights consequences in the occupied Palestinian territory and across the region," read a statement by&nbsp;the Inter-Agency Standing Committee which comprises&nbsp;heads of different UN organisations.&nbsp;

<h2>UN agency allowed Hamas to use infrastructure for ‘military activity’, alleges Israel</h2>

Israel on Wednesday (Jan 31) further accused UNRWA of allowing the militant group Hamas to use its infrastructure in the Gaza Strip to carry out military activity.

“UNRWA is a front for Hamas. It has been fundamentally compromised in three main ways: hiring terrorists on a massive scale, letting its infrastructure be used for Hamas military activity and relying on Hamas for aid distribution in the Gaza Strip,” said government spokesman Eylon Levy, in a video statement.

Levy further alleged that 10 per cent of UNRWA employees are members of Islamic Jihad militant groups or Hamas in Gaza. “It is not a neutral organisation,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) facing allegations of having ties with Hamas, the United States has decided to temporarily suspend approximately $300,000 in funding.

In the wake of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) facing allegations of having ties with Hamas, the United States has decided to temporarily suspend approximately $300,000 in funding. The step was taken after Israel claimed that the agency’s staff had been involved in the October 7 Hamas attacks, which raised concerns across the world and forced the UN to investigate the issue. The pause in the funding was confirmed by State Department spokesperson Matt Miller, which was originally scheduled for delivery in the weeks ahead. The US last week had announced that it is temporarily suspending the funding after reports emerged of UNRWA staff having potential links with the Hamas attacks. The total impact of the pause is likely to depend on the amount which was authorised by Congress for the current fiscal year. Also read: Israel alleges nearly 190 UN staff doubled up as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants: Report As per Miller, the US has till now provided around USD 121 million worth of funds to UNRWA in the current fiscal year. He further stressed the necessity of a thorough investigation into the allegations made against UNRWA and acknowledged the important role it has played in providing humanitarian support, which includes education, food relief and healthcare to Gaza's population. The US and 34 other donor nations are set to hold a meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday (Jan 30). Halting funds to UN refugee agency will be ‘catastrophic’: UN bodies In a joint statement, the heads of multiple UN bodies on Wednesday (Jan 31) said that cutting off funding to the UNRWA will have "catastrophic consequences" for war-torn Gaza. Watch: UNRWA crisis: After US, Germany & other European nations suspend funding "Withdrawing funds from UNRWA is perilous and would result in the collapse of the humanitarian system in Gaza, with far-reaching humanitarian and human rights consequences in the occupied Palestinian territory and across the region," read a statement by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee which comprises heads of different UN organisations. UN agency allowed Hamas to use infrastructure for ‘military activity’, alleges Israel Israel on Wednesday (Jan 31) further accused UNRWA of allowing the militant group Hamas to use its infrastructure in the Gaza Strip to carry out military activity. “UNRWA is a front for Hamas. It has been fundamentally compromised in three main ways: hiring terrorists on a massive scale, letting its infrastructure be used for Hamas military activity and relying on Hamas for aid distribution in the Gaza Strip,” said government spokesman Eylon Levy, in a video statement. Levy further alleged that 10 per cent of UNRWA employees are members of Islamic Jihad militant groups or Hamas in Gaza. “It is not a neutral organisation,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US holds back $300,000 funding to UN agency amid allegations of ties with Hamas

United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday (Jan 29) made his very first appearance at the Pentagon since being hospitalised for complications after his prostate cancer surgery.

Austin, who spent two weeks in Walter Reed after being admitted to the military hospital on January 1, arrived at the Pentagon, a day after three US soldiers were killed in drone strikes at a military base in Jordan.&nbsp;

According to reports, Austin&nbsp;met&nbsp;the secretary general of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, and senior defence officials, including Gen. Charles Q. Brown, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

Watch |&nbsp;US Defence Secy. Lloyd Austin called to testify about hospitalisation before Congress

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Notably, it was only last week that he made his first public appearance since the secret hospitalisation. At the time, he&nbsp;attended the conference on Ukraine's military needs virtually from his residence.&nbsp;

"Ukraine's fight is important for all of our countries. Ukraine's incredibly brave troops are continuing their battle against the Kremlin's invaders, against a vast front line in Ukraine's east and south in bitter winter weather. Ukraine's defenders continue to inflict significant losses on the Kremlin's forces," the Pentagon chief said.&nbsp;

"Putin continues to sacrifice staggering numbers of Russian troops in his rash and reckless war of choice, and Putin hopes that missiles and drones will demoralize the Ukrainian people and break the fighting spirit of the Ukrainian military. So I urge this group to dig deep to provide Ukraine with more life-saving, ground-based air defence systems and interceptors. And Ukraine has answered Putin's cruelty with courage and defiance," he added.

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— Department of Defense 🇺🇸 (@DeptofDefense) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofDefense/status/1749779453608087830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Furthermore, Austin in the meeting also highlighted a military package worth $250 million announced by Washington in the month of December but did not make mention of any new American aid.

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<h2>Austin's secret hospitalisation</h2>

The 70-year-old underwent surgery on Dec 22 to treat prostate cancer and came back home the same day.

However, he was again hospitalised on Jan 1 for complications including nausea and severe pain and was discharged on Jan 15.

"The Secretary continues to recover well and, on the advice of doctors, will recuperate and perform his duties remotely for a period of time before returning full-time to the Pentagon," the statement said. "He has full access to required secure communications capabilities."

Austin had kept his cancer diagnosis and hospitalisation from President Biden and senior officials a secret until January.

His mishandling of the situation was a violation of the protocol for top-ranking cabinet officials, who reportedly have to inform well in advance of planned medical absences and identify the one who would be filling in for them.

He had earlier released a statement saying that he "could have done a better job" and took "full responsibility" for the secrecy over his hospitalisation.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday (Jan 29) made his very first appearance at the Pentagon since being hospitalised for complications after his prostate cancer surgery.

United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday (Jan 29) made his very first appearance at the Pentagon since being hospitalised for complications after his prostate cancer surgery. Austin, who spent two weeks in Walter Reed after being admitted to the military hospital on January 1, arrived at the Pentagon, a day after three US soldiers were killed in drone strikes at a military base in Jordan. According to reports, Austin met the secretary general of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, and senior defence officials, including Gen. Charles Q. Brown, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Watch | US Defence Secy. Lloyd Austin called to testify about hospitalisation before Congress × Notably, it was only last week that he made his first public appearance since the secret hospitalisation. At the time, he attended the conference on Ukraine's military needs virtually from his residence. "Ukraine's fight is important for all of our countries. Ukraine's incredibly brave troops are continuing their battle against the Kremlin's invaders, against a vast front line in Ukraine's east and south in bitter winter weather. Ukraine's defenders continue to inflict significant losses on the Kremlin's forces," the Pentagon chief said. "Putin continues to sacrifice staggering numbers of Russian troops in his rash and reckless war of choice, and Putin hopes that missiles and drones will demoralize the Ukrainian people and break the fighting spirit of the Ukrainian military. So I urge this group to dig deep to provide Ukraine with more life-saving, ground-based air defence systems and interceptors. And Ukraine has answered Putin's cruelty with courage and defiance," he added. LIVE: @SecDef Lloyd J. Austin III speaks from the Pentagon at a virtual meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. https://t.co/SBTX6R8Fs5 — Department of Defense 🇺🇸 (@DeptofDefense) January 23, 2024 × Furthermore, Austin in the meeting also highlighted a military package worth $250 million announced by Washington in the month of December but did not make mention of any new American aid. Also read: 'DeSaster' again: DeSantis quotes Budweiser thinking words are from Churchill, says report Austin's secret hospitalisation The 70-year-old underwent surgery on Dec 22 to treat prostate cancer and came back home the same day. However, he was again hospitalised on Jan 1 for complications including nausea and severe pain and was discharged on Jan 15. "The Secretary continues to recover well and, on the advice of doctors, will recuperate and perform his duties remotely for a period of time before returning full-time to the Pentagon," the statement said. "He has full access to required secure communications capabilities." Austin had kept his cancer diagnosis and hospitalisation from President Biden and senior officials a secret until January. His mishandling of the situation was a violation of the protocol for top-ranking cabinet officials, who reportedly have to inform well in advance of planned medical absences and identify the one who would be filling in for them. He had earlier released a statement saying that he "could have done a better job" and took "full responsibility" for the secrecy over his hospitalisation. (With inputs from agencies)

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin returns to Pentagon a month after prostate cancer surgery

A United States official on Monday (Jan 29) said that the reason why the US failed to dodge the drone strike that hit an American military outpost in Jordan, killing three troops, was because the military drone reached the target at the same time when a US drone was also returning to the base, as per the Wall Street Journal reports.

The return of the drone launched by the United States led to confusion amongst officials over whether the drone that was coming was that of a foe or its own.

The US claimed that the drone, which claimed the lives of three troops, was launched by Iran-backed militant groups.

However, the United States has yet to find evidence if Iran directed the strike, said the US official.

<h2>US seeking 'consequential' response to attack, says White House&nbsp;</h2>

A White House spokesman on Monday (Jan 29) said that the US was seeking a "very consequential" response to the drone attack.

President Joe Biden "will respond" to the Sunday attack "in a very consequential way. But we don't seek a war with Iran. We're not looking for a wider conflict in the Middle East," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said in an interview with CNN.

After the drone strike hit the American outpost in Jordan, Biden released a statement vowing to hold the perpetrators to account.

"While we are still gathering the facts of this attack, we know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq," Biden said in a statement on the attack.

"We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt -- we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner of our choosing," he added.

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The US president then called the three fallen service members “patriots,” praising their bravery and offering his grief, calling it a “despicable and wholly unjust attack.”&nbsp;

“Together, we will keep the sacred obligation we bear to their families. We will strive to be worthy of their honour and valour. We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism,” the president said.

The US Central Command said that dozens were injured from the attack near the Syrian border further adding that the identities of the ones killed will be withheld pending notification of their families. &nbsp;

<h2>Deadly attack on US troops occurred in Syria, claims Jordan</h2>

Meanwhile, Jordan released a statement saying that the strike took place at an army base in Syria near the border and not in its territory as was reported by the United States earlier.

Government spokesman Muhannad Mubaidin said the "attack that targeted the American forces did not happen in Jordan... It targeted Al-Tanf base in Syria", where US forces are deployed as part of an international anti-jihadist coalition.

<h2>Hamas spokesman says drone strike 'a warning to American admin'</h2>

Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri released a statement saying that the killing of the soldiers "is a message to the American administration that unless the killing of innocent people in Gaza stops, it may be faced with the entire (Muslim) nation."

"The continuation of the American-Zionist aggression on Gaza risks a regional explosion," Abu Zuhri said in a statement.

This is the first time that American troops have been killed in the Middle East since the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas broke out.

The attack is being seen as a significant escalation of the already precarious situation in the Middle East. There have been more than 150 attacks on US and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria, but most were unsuccessful as they did not cause serious injury or damage to infrastructure. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A United States official on Monday (Jan 29) said that the reason why the US failed to dodge the drone strike that hit an American military outpost in Jordan, killing three troops, was because the military drone reached the target at the same time when a US drone was also returning to the base, as per the Wall Street Journal reports.

A United States official on Monday (Jan 29) said that the reason why the US failed to dodge the drone strike that hit an American military outpost in Jordan, killing three troops, was because the military drone reached the target at the same time when a US drone was also returning to the base, as per the Wall Street Journal reports. The return of the drone launched by the United States led to confusion amongst officials over whether the drone that was coming was that of a foe or its own. The US claimed that the drone, which claimed the lives of three troops, was launched by Iran-backed militant groups. However, the United States has yet to find evidence if Iran directed the strike, said the US official. US seeking 'consequential' response to attack, says White House A White House spokesman on Monday (Jan 29) said that the US was seeking a "very consequential" response to the drone attack. President Joe Biden "will respond" to the Sunday attack "in a very consequential way. But we don't seek a war with Iran. We're not looking for a wider conflict in the Middle East," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said in an interview with CNN. After the drone strike hit the American outpost in Jordan, Biden released a statement vowing to hold the perpetrators to account. "While we are still gathering the facts of this attack, we know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq," Biden said in a statement on the attack. "We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt -- we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner of our choosing," he added. Also read: French farmers block highways amid protests against government, thousands of police deployed The US president then called the three fallen service members “patriots,” praising their bravery and offering his grief, calling it a “despicable and wholly unjust attack.” “Together, we will keep the sacred obligation we bear to their families. We will strive to be worthy of their honour and valour. We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism,” the president said. The US Central Command said that dozens were injured from the attack near the Syrian border further adding that the identities of the ones killed will be withheld pending notification of their families. Deadly attack on US troops occurred in Syria, claims Jordan Meanwhile, Jordan released a statement saying that the strike took place at an army base in Syria near the border and not in its territory as was reported by the United States earlier. Government spokesman Muhannad Mubaidin said the "attack that targeted the American forces did not happen in Jordan... It targeted Al-Tanf base in Syria", where US forces are deployed as part of an international anti-jihadist coalition. Hamas spokesman says drone strike 'a warning to American admin' Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri released a statement saying that the killing of the soldiers "is a message to the American administration that unless the killing of innocent people in Gaza stops, it may be faced with the entire (Muslim) nation." "The continuation of the American-Zionist aggression on Gaza risks a regional explosion," Abu Zuhri said in a statement. This is the first time that American troops have been killed in the Middle East since the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas broke out. The attack is being seen as a significant escalation of the already precarious situation in the Middle East. There have been more than 150 attacks on US and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria, but most were unsuccessful as they did not cause serious injury or damage to infrastructure. (With inputs from agencies)

Did US fail to avert Jordan attack due to drone-related confusion?

A drone strike targeting a base in Jordan on Sunday (Jan 28) claimed the lives of three US troops.&nbsp;

After the attack, United States President Joe Biden condemned the Iran-backed militant groups and vowed to hold the perpetrators to account.

"While we are still gathering the facts of this attack, we know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq," Biden said in a statement on the attack.

"We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt -- we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner of our choosing," he added.

The US president then called the three fallen service members “patriots,” praising their bravery and offering his grief, calling it a “despicable and wholly unjust attack.”&nbsp;

“Together, we will keep the sacred obligation we bear to their families. We will strive to be worthy of their honour and valour. We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism,” the president said.

The US Central Command said that the 25 people were injured from the attack near the Syrian border further adding that the identities of the ones killed will be withheld pending notification of their families. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-launches-three-satellites-into-space-as-tensions-grip-west-asia-684584">Iran launches three satellites into space as tensions grip West Asia</a>

<h2>Deadly attack on US troops occurred in Syria, claims Jordan</h2>

Meanwhile, Jordan released a statement saying that the strike took place at an army base in Syria near the border and not in its territory as was reported by the United States earlier.

Government spokesman Muhannad Mubaidin said the "attack that targeted the American forces did not happen in Jordan... It targeted Al-Tanf base in Syria", where US forces are deployed as part of an international anti-jihadist coalition.

<h2>Hamas spokesman says drone strike 'a warning to American admin'</h2>

Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri released a statement saying that the killing of the soldiers "is a message to the American administration that unless the killing of innocent people in Gaza stops, it may be faced with the entire (Muslim) nation."

"The continuation of the American-Zionist aggression on Gaza risks a regional explosion," Abu Zuhri said in a statement.

This is the first time that American troops have been killed in the Middle East since the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas broke out.

The attack is being seen as a significant escalation of the already precarious situation in the Middle East. There have been more than 150 attacks on US and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria, but most were unsuccessful as they did not cause serious injury or damage to infrastructure. &nbsp;

<h2>‘Strikes against Houthis to continue,’ says Biden</h2>

Earlier, Biden had said that the military strikes against the Houthis would continue as he said that the rebel group was still attacking vessels in the Red Sea.

"When you say 'working, are they stopping the Houthi?' No. Are they going to continue? Yes," Biden told reporters at the White House when asked if the strikes were working.

Washington re-designated the Houthis as a "terrorist group" on Jan 17 and hit 14 Houthi missiles later the same day. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A drone strike targeting a base in Jordan on Sunday (Jan 28) claimed the lives of three US troops. After the attack, United States President Joe Biden condemned the Iran-backed militant groups and vowed to hold the perpetrators to account.

A drone strike targeting a base in Jordan on Sunday (Jan 28) claimed the lives of three US troops. After the attack, United States President Joe Biden condemned the Iran-backed militant groups and vowed to hold the perpetrators to account. "While we are still gathering the facts of this attack, we know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq," Biden said in a statement on the attack. "We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt -- we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner of our choosing," he added. The US president then called the three fallen service members “patriots,” praising their bravery and offering his grief, calling it a “despicable and wholly unjust attack.” “Together, we will keep the sacred obligation we bear to their families. We will strive to be worthy of their honour and valour. We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism,” the president said. The US Central Command said that the 25 people were injured from the attack near the Syrian border further adding that the identities of the ones killed will be withheld pending notification of their families. Also read: Iran launches three satellites into space as tensions grip West Asia Deadly attack on US troops occurred in Syria, claims Jordan Meanwhile, Jordan released a statement saying that the strike took place at an army base in Syria near the border and not in its territory as was reported by the United States earlier. Government spokesman Muhannad Mubaidin said the "attack that targeted the American forces did not happen in Jordan... It targeted Al-Tanf base in Syria", where US forces are deployed as part of an international anti-jihadist coalition. Hamas spokesman says drone strike 'a warning to American admin' Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri released a statement saying that the killing of the soldiers "is a message to the American administration that unless the killing of innocent people in Gaza stops, it may be faced with the entire (Muslim) nation." "The continuation of the American-Zionist aggression on Gaza risks a regional explosion," Abu Zuhri said in a statement. This is the first time that American troops have been killed in the Middle East since the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas broke out. The attack is being seen as a significant escalation of the already precarious situation in the Middle East. There have been more than 150 attacks on US and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria, but most were unsuccessful as they did not cause serious injury or damage to infrastructure. ‘Strikes against Houthis to continue,’ says Biden Earlier, Biden had said that the military strikes against the Houthis would continue as he said that the rebel group was still attacking vessels in the Red Sea. "When you say 'working, are they stopping the Houthi?' No. Are they going to continue? Yes," Biden told reporters at the White House when asked if the strikes were working. Washington re-designated the Houthis as a "terrorist group" on Jan 17 and hit 14 Houthi missiles later the same day. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden vows to strike back after drone strike on Jordan base kills 3 US troops

Pentagon’s former chief investigator of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) Sean Kirkpatrick claimed that the conspiracy theorists who have been working for and within the US government have been perpetuating myths regarding UFOs that millions of taxpayer dollars are being spent into studying a “self-licking ice cream cone”. 
 
The claims were made by Kirkpatrick in a podcast after he stepped down from the position of the first director of the defence department’s all-domain anomaly resolution office (Aaro) last month. 
 
The department was established in 2022 to collect military reports of UAP sightings and to provide more transparency regarding what information the government has. 
 
The first comprehensive historical record report of Aaro was submitted to Congress and will be published later this year, said Kirkpatrick, adding that it contains no evidence of the existence of alien life and not only any government cover-up.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/its-official-us-is-not-able-to-defend-itself-against-an-alien-invasion-684284">It’s official, US is not able to defend itself against an alien invasion: Report</a>

He added that various lawmakers happily embrace unsubstantiated stories which are circulated by “a core group of people” regarding the secret government UFO research programmes. 
 
“They’re some of the same people that have been working behind the scenes with Congress to write legislation,” said Kirkpatrick, in the podcast. 
 
“They’re the same people that worked with a US company and the US army to explore a piece of material that they claim was a UAP and really is a piece of missile casing from the 1950s. They’re the same people that have been influencing some of these whistleblowers who have come forward to say: ‘Hey, I don’t have any first-hand evidence, but all these people are telling me this',” he added. 
 
Kirkpatrick did not identify the people by name, but agreed with the observation of Bergen that “the actual conspiracy is being carried out by a group of true believers themselves to get the government involved in the business of investigating aliens”. 
 
“That is a self-licking ice cream cone, exactly. The best thing that could have happened in this job is I found the aliens, and I could have rolled them out, but there’s none. There is no evidence of extraterrestrials. There is no evidence of aliens, and there’s no evidence of the government conspiracy,” said Kirkpatrick.

<h2 lang="en-US">Lawmakers succumbed to “conspiracy-driven decision-making”: Kirkpatrick</h2>

In his resignation essay, which was published last week by Scientific American, Kirkpatrick said that the lawmakers have succumbed to “conspiracy-driven decision-making” and sensationalism in their efforts to “uncover the cover-up”.

Watch:&nbsp;NASA Chief says Aliens exist | This World

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-chief-says-aliens-exist-this-world-636678/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“Worrisome is the willingness of some to make judgments and take actions on these stories without having seen or even requested supporting evidence, an omission that is all the more problematic when the claims are so extraordinary,” Kirkpatrick wrote. 
 
“Some members of Congress prefer to opine about aliens to the press rather than get an evidence-based briefing on the matter. Members have a responsibility to exhibit critical-thinking skills instead of seeking the spotlight,” he wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pentagon’s former chief investigator of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) Sean Kirkpatrick claimed that the conspiracy theorists who have been working for and within the US government have been perpetuating myths regarding UFOs that millions of taxpayer dollars are being spent into studying a “self-licking ice cream cone”.

Pentagon’s former chief investigator of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) Sean Kirkpatrick claimed that the conspiracy theorists who have been working for and within the US government have been perpetuating myths regarding UFOs that millions of taxpayer dollars are being spent into studying a “self-licking ice cream cone”. The claims were made by Kirkpatrick in a podcast after he stepped down from the position of the first director of the defence department’s all-domain anomaly resolution office (Aaro) last month. The department was established in 2022 to collect military reports of UAP sightings and to provide more transparency regarding what information the government has. The first comprehensive historical record report of Aaro was submitted to Congress and will be published later this year, said Kirkpatrick, adding that it contains no evidence of the existence of alien life and not only any government cover-up. Also read: It’s official, US is not able to defend itself against an alien invasion: Report He added that various lawmakers happily embrace unsubstantiated stories which are circulated by “a core group of people” regarding the secret government UFO research programmes. “They’re some of the same people that have been working behind the scenes with Congress to write legislation,” said Kirkpatrick, in the podcast. “They’re the same people that worked with a US company and the US army to explore a piece of material that they claim was a UAP and really is a piece of missile casing from the 1950s. They’re the same people that have been influencing some of these whistleblowers who have come forward to say: ‘Hey, I don’t have any first-hand evidence, but all these people are telling me this',” he added. Kirkpatrick did not identify the people by name, but agreed with the observation of Bergen that “the actual conspiracy is being carried out by a group of true believers themselves to get the government involved in the business of investigating aliens”. “That is a self-licking ice cream cone, exactly. The best thing that could have happened in this job is I found the aliens, and I could have rolled them out, but there’s none. There is no evidence of extraterrestrials. There is no evidence of aliens, and there’s no evidence of the government conspiracy,” said Kirkpatrick. Lawmakers succumbed to “conspiracy-driven decision-making”: Kirkpatrick In his resignation essay, which was published last week by Scientific American, Kirkpatrick said that the lawmakers have succumbed to “conspiracy-driven decision-making” and sensationalism in their efforts to “uncover the cover-up”. Watch: NASA Chief says Aliens exist | This World “Worrisome is the willingness of some to make judgments and take actions on these stories without having seen or even requested supporting evidence, an omission that is all the more problematic when the claims are so extraordinary,” Kirkpatrick wrote. “Some members of Congress prefer to opine about aliens to the press rather than get an evidence-based briefing on the matter. Members have a responsibility to exhibit critical-thinking skills instead of seeking the spotlight,” he wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

No aliens, US govt's money spent over 'self-licking ice cream cone': Pentagon ex-UFO chief

An anti-ship missile was struck by the United States' forces in Houthi-held Yemen which they claimed was prepared to fire early on Saturday (Jan 27).&nbsp; The missile was struck hours after a British tanker in the Gulf of Aden was struck by the Iran-backed rebels with a similar munition triggering a fire in the oil tanker, which was later doused by the Indian Navy. 
 
Joint strikes have been launched by the US and British forces which are aimed at reducing the ability of Houthis to target vessels that are moving in the key Red Sea trade route. The rebels have claimed to be in support of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, where Israel and Hamas have been engaged in the war. 
 
A series of unilateral air raids have been carried out by Washington, however, the Houthis have vowed to continue carrying out the attacks.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-offensive-intensifies-in-gaza-despite-icj-ruling-684231">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli offensive intensifies in Gaza despite ICJ ruling</a>

The US military's Central Command (CENTCOM) claimed to have carried out another strike on Saturday morning (Jan 27) on a Houthi "anti-ship missile aimed into the Red Sea and which was prepared to launch". 
 
"Forces subsequently struck and destroyed the missile in self-defence," CENTCOM said, in a statement shared on social media platform X. 
 
Houthis' military spokesman Yahya Saree had earlier said that the British oil tanker, named Marlin Luanda, was struck by missiles which were launched by Yemeni naval forces, said the Houthis' military spokesman, Yahya Saree. "The strike was direct, and resulted (in) the burning of the vessel," he said. 
 
Later, CENTCOM, confirming the strike, said, "The ship issued a distress call and reported damage. USS Carney (DDG 64) and other coalition ships have responded and are rendering assistance. No injuries have been reported at this time."

<h2 lang="en-US">Oil tanker on fire in Gulf of Aden</h2>

The Houthis, on Friday (Jan 26), fired an anti-ship ballistic missile towards the Carney in the Gulf of Aden from Yemen, said CENTCOM. 
 
"The missile was successfully shot down by USS Carney. There were no injuries or damage reported," it said. 
 
Earlier, risk monitor Ambrey said that a Panama-flagged oil tanker "reported seeing two blasts" in the Gulf of Aden, which was corroborated by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) of the British Navy. However, no damage was reported on the oil tanker.

Watch: Yemen Houthi rebels escalate Red sea attacks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/yemen-houthi-rebels-escalate-red-sea-attacks-684134/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The security firm said that the missiles blasted nearly a mile from the India-affiliated oil tanker and 200-300 metres (650-1,000 feet), which was above the waterline. UKMTO said that the missiles were detonated in the water. 
 
In the month of November, the Houthis started targeting Red Sea shipping, stating that they were striking Israeli-linked vessels to express their solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Indian Navy responds to distress call by vessel in Gulf of Aden</h2>

Indian Navy's guided-missile destroyer responded to an SOS call issued by a merchant ship, Marlin Launda, after it was struck by a missile and caught fire in the Gulf of Aden, said the Indian Navy in a statement on Saturday (Jan 27).&nbsp;

There were 22 Indians and a Bangladeshi crew on board. On the basis of the request from MV Merlin Luanda, INS Visakhapatnam sent the Ship's NBCD team along with firefighting equipment to provide assistance to the crew in its firefighting efforts, said the Indian Navy.

"Indian Navy remains steadfast and committed to safeguarding merchant vessels and ensuring safety of life at sea," said the Indian Navy, in the statement.

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Captain Avinash Rawat, Captain of MV Marlin Luanda which came under missile strike: 
 
"Really appreciate the other navies, they also helped us, but it was the Indian Navy who went out of the book &amp; helped us out" <a href="https://t.co/gDSY3PnmAV">https://t.co/gDSY3PnmAV</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1751284463965995126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After six hours of battling the fire along with the crew of MV Marlin Luanda, the Indian Naval firefighting team&nbsp;successfully brought the fire under control. The team is currently monitoring the situation to rule out any possibility of re-ignition. &nbsp;

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Breaking: First visuals of Indian Navy's firefighting team in action onboard MV Marlin Luanda which came under missile attack. <a href="https://t.co/fcuaQ5RVEP">https://t.co/fcuaQ5RVEP</a> <a href="https://t.co/xHSS9akjdt">pic.twitter.com/xHSS9akjdt</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1751286126055456832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

An anti-ship missile was struck by the United States' forces in Houthi-held Yemen which they claimed was prepared to fire early on Saturday (Jan 27). The missile was struck hours after a British tanker in the Gulf of Aden was struck by the Iran-backed rebels with a similar munition triggering a fire in the oil tanker, which was later doused by the Indian Navy.

An anti-ship missile was struck by the United States' forces in Houthi-held Yemen which they claimed was prepared to fire early on Saturday (Jan 27). The missile was struck hours after a British tanker in the Gulf of Aden was struck by the Iran-backed rebels with a similar munition triggering a fire in the oil tanker, which was later doused by the Indian Navy. Joint strikes have been launched by the US and British forces which are aimed at reducing the ability of Houthis to target vessels that are moving in the key Red Sea trade route. The rebels have claimed to be in support of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, where Israel and Hamas have been engaged in the war. A series of unilateral air raids have been carried out by Washington, however, the Houthis have vowed to continue carrying out the attacks. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Israeli offensive intensifies in Gaza despite ICJ ruling The US military's Central Command (CENTCOM) claimed to have carried out another strike on Saturday morning (Jan 27) on a Houthi "anti-ship missile aimed into the Red Sea and which was prepared to launch". "Forces subsequently struck and destroyed the missile in self-defence," CENTCOM said, in a statement shared on social media platform X. Houthis' military spokesman Yahya Saree had earlier said that the British oil tanker, named Marlin Luanda, was struck by missiles which were launched by Yemeni naval forces, said the Houthis' military spokesman, Yahya Saree. "The strike was direct, and resulted (in) the burning of the vessel," he said. Later, CENTCOM, confirming the strike, said, "The ship issued a distress call and reported damage. USS Carney (DDG 64) and other coalition ships have responded and are rendering assistance. No injuries have been reported at this time." Oil tanker on fire in Gulf of Aden The Houthis, on Friday (Jan 26), fired an anti-ship ballistic missile towards the Carney in the Gulf of Aden from Yemen, said CENTCOM. "The missile was successfully shot down by USS Carney. There were no injuries or damage reported," it said. Earlier, risk monitor Ambrey said that a Panama-flagged oil tanker "reported seeing two blasts" in the Gulf of Aden, which was corroborated by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) of the British Navy. However, no damage was reported on the oil tanker. Watch: Yemen Houthi rebels escalate Red sea attacks The security firm said that the missiles blasted nearly a mile from the India-affiliated oil tanker and 200-300 metres (650-1,000 feet), which was above the waterline. UKMTO said that the missiles were detonated in the water. In the month of November, the Houthis started targeting Red Sea shipping, stating that they were striking Israeli-linked vessels to express their solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Indian Navy responds to distress call by vessel in Gulf of Aden Indian Navy's guided-missile destroyer responded to an SOS call issued by a merchant ship, Marlin Launda, after it was struck by a missile and caught fire in the Gulf of Aden, said the Indian Navy in a statement on Saturday (Jan 27). There were 22 Indians and a Bangladeshi crew on board. On the basis of the request from MV Merlin Luanda, INS Visakhapatnam sent the Ship's NBCD team along with firefighting equipment to provide assistance to the crew in its firefighting efforts, said the Indian Navy. "Indian Navy remains steadfast and committed to safeguarding merchant vessels and ensuring safety of life at sea," said the Indian Navy, in the statement. Captain Avinash Rawat, Captain of MV Marlin Luanda which came under missile strike: "Really appreciate the other navies, they also helped us, but it was the Indian Navy who went out of the book & helped us out" https://t.co/gDSY3PnmAV — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 27, 2024 × After six hours of battling the fire along with the crew of MV Marlin Luanda, the Indian Naval firefighting team successfully brought the fire under control. The team is currently monitoring the situation to rule out any possibility of re-ignition. Breaking: First visuals of Indian Navy's firefighting team in action onboard MV Marlin Luanda which came under missile attack. https://t.co/fcuaQ5RVEP pic.twitter.com/xHSS9akjdt — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 27, 2024 × Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Indian Navy douses fire at British oil tanker after US strikes Houthi-linked missile

The United States embassy in the Bahamas issued a travel advisory asking travellers to avoid visiting the island nation as of now after 18 murders were reported in a month. 
 
A sudden surge in violence was reported in the Bahamas in January which was largely attributed to gang-related activities and raised concerns regarding tourist safety. 
 
Emphasising the severity of the situation, the US officials advised people against any attempt to “physically resist” robbery. Meanwhile, travellers were appealed to reconsider plans for a tropical getaway to the Caribbean destination. 
 
“The US Embassy in Nassau advises US citizens to be aware that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024. Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets. Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders,” wrote the embassy, in a press release.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-may-redeploy-nuclear-warheads-in-uk-to-counter-russia-threat-report-684283">US may redeploy nuclear warheads in UK to counter Russia threat: Report</a>

The visitors have been advised to remain extra cautious when walking or driving at night and the United States has asked people to maintain a low profile, avoid resisting robbery attempts and stay aware of their surroundings. 
 
The travellers were asked to review and update their personal security plans in the wake of increasing security concerns in the region.

<h2 lang="en-US">Bahamas PM announces steps to curb violence</h2>

Speaking about the recent surge in violence, Prime Minister of The Bahamas Philip Davis announced steps for handling the surge in violence, which includes roadblocks and covert police actions, the Nassau Guardian reported. 
 
“This may make you late for your appointments, or delay plans you have, but this is a small price to pay for the collective benefit of having our streets made safer, and our lives less blighted by murder and other violent crimes,” Davis said. 
 
The officials have also been worried regarding unregulated water activities and warned that they may be lacking safety measures.

Watch:&nbsp;Few US adults want a Biden-Trump rematch, says survey

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The State Department had earlier issued a travel advisory for Jamaica to level three out of four, which signalled a "reconsider travel" recommendation – which is the only higher threat than being a "do not travel" warning. The department claimed that there have been common occurrences of violent crimes, including home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides in Jamaica. 
 
“Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts,” said the statement. Travellers were advised to remain cautious and reconsider their trip to Jamaica.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States embassy in the Bahamas issued a travel advisory asking travellers to avoid visiting the island nation as of now after 18 murders were reported in a month.

The United States embassy in the Bahamas issued a travel advisory asking travellers to avoid visiting the island nation as of now after 18 murders were reported in a month. A sudden surge in violence was reported in the Bahamas in January which was largely attributed to gang-related activities and raised concerns regarding tourist safety. Emphasising the severity of the situation, the US officials advised people against any attempt to “physically resist” robbery. Meanwhile, travellers were appealed to reconsider plans for a tropical getaway to the Caribbean destination. “The US Embassy in Nassau advises US citizens to be aware that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024. Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets. Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders,” wrote the embassy, in a press release. Also read: US may redeploy nuclear warheads in UK to counter Russia threat: Report The visitors have been advised to remain extra cautious when walking or driving at night and the United States has asked people to maintain a low profile, avoid resisting robbery attempts and stay aware of their surroundings. The travellers were asked to review and update their personal security plans in the wake of increasing security concerns in the region. Bahamas PM announces steps to curb violence Speaking about the recent surge in violence, Prime Minister of The Bahamas Philip Davis announced steps for handling the surge in violence, which includes roadblocks and covert police actions, the Nassau Guardian reported. “This may make you late for your appointments, or delay plans you have, but this is a small price to pay for the collective benefit of having our streets made safer, and our lives less blighted by murder and other violent crimes,” Davis said. The officials have also been worried regarding unregulated water activities and warned that they may be lacking safety measures. Watch: Few US adults want a Biden-Trump rematch, says survey The State Department had earlier issued a travel advisory for Jamaica to level three out of four, which signalled a "reconsider travel" recommendation – which is the only higher threat than being a "do not travel" warning. The department claimed that there have been common occurrences of violent crimes, including home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides in Jamaica. “Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts,” said the statement. Travellers were advised to remain cautious and reconsider their trip to Jamaica. (With inputs from agencies)

US issues ‘gang violence’ warning for Bahamas travellers after 18 murders reported in one month

The first-ever execution carried out by the US state of Alabama, using nitrogen gas, on Thursday (Jan 25) received widespread criticism from the international community for&nbsp;being 'cruel'. They also&nbsp;held&nbsp;the controversial method adopted by the United States&nbsp;of being close to "torture." 
 
The court had given a death sentence to Kenneth Eugene Smith in 1996 for a 1988 murder and he was pronounced dead at 8:25 pm (0225 GMT Friday), as per local media, which cited southern state Governor Kay Ivey's statement. 
 
UN human rights chief Volker Turk on Friday (Jan 26) said that the convicted murderer's execution by nitrogen gas suffocation in the United States can amount to torture.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-alabama-makes-history-with-first-execution-using-nitrogen-gas-683713">Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas, in a first for US</a>

"I deeply regret the execution of Kenneth Eugene Smith in Alabama despite serious concerns this novel and untested method of suffocation by nitrogen gas may amount to torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment," said Turk, in a brief statement. 
 
"The death penalty is inconsistent with the fundamental right to life. I urge all states to put in place a moratorium on its use, as a step towards universal abolition,” he added.

<h2 lang="en-US">'Cruel and unusual punishment': EU</h2>

The European Union, on Friday (Jan 26), reacting to the convicted murderer's execution using nitrogen gas in the US state of Alabama, said that it "deeply regrets" the incident. 
 
"According to leading experts, this method is a particularly cruel and unusual punishment," a&nbsp;European Union spokesman said in a statement. 
 
The 27-nation bloc has stood strongly in opposition to the death penalty and criticised executions, which are carried out in different countries, on a regular basis.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Alabama to carry out first Nitrogen gas execution

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Smith had&nbsp;survived an execution attempt&nbsp;in November 2022 after officials in Alabama failed to insert an intravenous line's needle in his body, and aborted the&nbsp;execution. 
 
Meanwhile, a peace group – which is closely associated with the Vatican – had earlier said that it would appeal to the European tourists and businesses to boycott Alabama if execution is carried out. 
 
Sant' Egidio Community's Mario Marazziti, in a press conference, had said, "This is a proposal that we will make if the execution of Kenneth Smith goes ahead.” 
 
"There is a moment in which you have to choose. Even for South Africa, it seemed that to boycott could not be effective but it became decisive to end the apartheid regime. I think we must try something that has not been tried so far," Marazziti said while speaking to Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The first-ever execution carried out by the US state of Alabama, using nitrogen gas, on Thursday (Jan 25) received widespread criticism from the international community for being 'cruel'.

The first-ever execution carried out by the US state of Alabama, using nitrogen gas, on Thursday (Jan 25) received widespread criticism from the international community for being 'cruel'. They also held the controversial method adopted by the United States of being close to "torture." The court had given a death sentence to Kenneth Eugene Smith in 1996 for a 1988 murder and he was pronounced dead at 8:25 pm (0225 GMT Friday), as per local media, which cited southern state Governor Kay Ivey's statement. UN human rights chief Volker Turk on Friday (Jan 26) said that the convicted murderer's execution by nitrogen gas suffocation in the United States can amount to torture. Also read: Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas, in a first for US "I deeply regret the execution of Kenneth Eugene Smith in Alabama despite serious concerns this novel and untested method of suffocation by nitrogen gas may amount to torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment," said Turk, in a brief statement. "The death penalty is inconsistent with the fundamental right to life. I urge all states to put in place a moratorium on its use, as a step towards universal abolition,” he added. 'Cruel and unusual punishment': EU The European Union, on Friday (Jan 26), reacting to the convicted murderer's execution using nitrogen gas in the US state of Alabama, said that it "deeply regrets" the incident. "According to leading experts, this method is a particularly cruel and unusual punishment," a European Union spokesman said in a statement. The 27-nation bloc has stood strongly in opposition to the death penalty and criticised executions, which are carried out in different countries, on a regular basis. Watch: Gravitas: Alabama to carry out first Nitrogen gas execution Smith had survived an execution attempt in November 2022 after officials in Alabama failed to insert an intravenous line's needle in his body, and aborted the execution. Meanwhile, a peace group – which is closely associated with the Vatican – had earlier said that it would appeal to the European tourists and businesses to boycott Alabama if execution is carried out. Sant' Egidio Community's Mario Marazziti, in a press conference, had said, "This is a proposal that we will make if the execution of Kenneth Smith goes ahead.” "There is a moment in which you have to choose. Even for South Africa, it seemed that to boycott could not be effective but it became decisive to end the apartheid regime. I think we must try something that has not been tried so far," Marazziti said while speaking to Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Alabama faces international criticism for 'cruel' nitrogen execution of inmate

Latest Houthi attack, targeting a US-owned and operated container ship, comes just hours after the latest US strikes in Yemen.

Houthis: Targeted US vessels with missiles

Once a bastion of peace in Latin America, Ecuador has been plunged into crisis after years of unchecked, mushrooming influence of transnational Narco-gangs, who use its ports to ship cocaine to the United States and Europe. It suffered a recent surge in violence, triggered by the 7th January prison escape of one of the country's most powerful Narco bosses, Jose Adolfo Macias, better known by the alias "Fito".

Ecuadorian prosecutor, investigating narcos, shot dead

The United States and the United Kingdom carried out a fresh series of joint air strikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen.&nbsp;

The Pentagon, in a statement, said that the air strikes carried out on Monday (Jan 22) hit eight targets which included weapon storage facilities, air defence systems, missile systems and launchers.

The latest strikes conducted by the US and UK were against "eight Houthi targets in Yemen in response to the Houthis' continued attacks against international and commercial shipping as well as naval vessels transiting the Red Sea," said Washington and London, in a joint statement with other nations which supported the military action.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthi-rebel-group-claims-it-attacked-us-military-ship-in-gulf-of-aden-washington-denies-682615">&nbsp;Yemen's Houthi rebel group claims it attacked US military ship in Gulf of Aden, Washington denies</a>

"These precision strikes are intended to disrupt and degrade the capabilities that the Houthis use to threaten global trade and the lives of innocent mariners," read the statement.&nbsp;

In a separate statement, the US Central Command said that the air strikes were targeted at places which "included missile systems and launchers, air defence systems, radars, and deeply buried weapons storage facilities".

<h2>US, UK claim trying to protect ‘free flow of commerce’&nbsp;</h2>

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have been striking ships which they claim to have links with Israel and Western nations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The US and UK have claimed that the strikes are aimed at protecting the "free flow of commerce".

In a joint statement, the Pentagon said that “an additional round of proportionate and necessary strikes" were carried out&nbsp;against the Houthis.

"Our aim remains to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea, but let us reiterate our warning to Houthi leadership: we will not hesitate to defend lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the world's most critical waterways in the face of continued threats,” the statement further read.&nbsp;

This is the eighth strike launched by the US on Houthis in Yemen. This is also the second joint operation conducted by the US with the UK, after joint air strikes were launched on January 11.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: US Navy SEALs die during anti-Houthi operation. What's the real story?

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The joint statement claimed that the joint strikes were launched with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands.

The strikes on Monday were carried out by US fighter jets from the carrier USS Eisenhower along with the UK’s four RAF Typhoons and a pair of Voyager tankers.&nbsp;

"Our aircraft used Paveway IV precision-guided bombs to strike multiple targets at two military sites in the vicinity of Sanaa airfield. These locations were being used to enable the continued intolerable attacks against international shipping in the Red Sea," said the UK Ministry of Defence.

"In line with UK standard practice, a very rigorous analysis was applied in planning the strikes to minimise any risk of civilian casualties, and as with the previous strikes, our aircraft bombed at night to mitigate yet further any such risks," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States and the United Kingdom carried out a fresh series of joint air strikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Pentagon, in a statement, said that the air strikes carried out on Monday (Jan 22) hit eight targets which included weapon storage facilities, air defence systems, missile systems and launchers.

The United States and the United Kingdom carried out a fresh series of joint air strikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Pentagon, in a statement, said that the air strikes carried out on Monday (Jan 22) hit eight targets which included weapon storage facilities, air defence systems, missile systems and launchers. The latest strikes conducted by the US and UK were against "eight Houthi targets in Yemen in response to the Houthis' continued attacks against international and commercial shipping as well as naval vessels transiting the Red Sea," said Washington and London, in a joint statement with other nations which supported the military action. Also read: Yemen's Houthi rebel group claims it attacked US military ship in Gulf of Aden, Washington denies "These precision strikes are intended to disrupt and degrade the capabilities that the Houthis use to threaten global trade and the lives of innocent mariners," read the statement. In a separate statement, the US Central Command said that the air strikes were targeted at places which "included missile systems and launchers, air defence systems, radars, and deeply buried weapons storage facilities". US, UK claim trying to protect ‘free flow of commerce’ The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have been striking ships which they claim to have links with Israel and Western nations. The US and UK have claimed that the strikes are aimed at protecting the "free flow of commerce". In a joint statement, the Pentagon said that “an additional round of proportionate and necessary strikes" were carried out against the Houthis. "Our aim remains to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea, but let us reiterate our warning to Houthi leadership: we will not hesitate to defend lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the world's most critical waterways in the face of continued threats,” the statement further read. This is the eighth strike launched by the US on Houthis in Yemen. This is also the second joint operation conducted by the US with the UK, after joint air strikes were launched on January 11. Watch: Gravitas: US Navy SEALs die during anti-Houthi operation. What's the real story? The joint statement claimed that the joint strikes were launched with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands. The strikes on Monday were carried out by US fighter jets from the carrier USS Eisenhower along with the UK’s four RAF Typhoons and a pair of Voyager tankers. "Our aircraft used Paveway IV precision-guided bombs to strike multiple targets at two military sites in the vicinity of Sanaa airfield. These locations were being used to enable the continued intolerable attacks against international shipping in the Red Sea," said the UK Ministry of Defence. "In line with UK standard practice, a very rigorous analysis was applied in planning the strikes to minimise any risk of civilian casualties, and as with the previous strikes, our aircraft bombed at night to mitigate yet further any such risks," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

US and UK conduct fresh series of air strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen

UK's Ministry of Defence on Sunday (Jan 21) announced its expenditure to upgrade a projectile system, that currently is being used by the Royal Navy, to shoot down drones over the Red Sea.

Britain's Ministry of Defence said that it would spend a total of $514 million (405 million pounds) on the Sea Viper Air Defence system.

The MoD released a statement saying that Sea Viper would be upgraded with missiles featuring a new warhead and software that will allow it to counter ballistic missile threats.

The contracts were awarded to the British division of MBDA, a missiles joint venture owned by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, the statement further added.

"As the situation in the Middle East worsens, it is vital that we adapt to keep the UK, our allies and partners safe," Defence Minister Grant Shapps said in the statement.

"Sea Viper has been at the forefront of this, being the Navy's weapon of choice in the first shooting down of an aerial threat in more than 30 years."

The announcement comes amid tensions in the Red Sea region after the United States and Britain launched retaliatory coalition strikes and shot down drones by Yemen's Houthi rebel group as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to heighten.

Earlier, on Saturday (Jan 20), the United States had launched fresh strikes on Yemen's Houthi rebels targeting an anti-ship ballistic missile, which as per the US army, was aimed into the Gulf of Aden and was prepared to launch.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-25-killed-20-injured-after-ukraine-shells-russian-controlled-city-of-donetsk-682073">At least 25 killed in Ukraine shelling on Russian-controlled city of Donetsk</a>

"US forces determined the missile presented a threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region and subsequently struck and destroyed the missile in self-defence," the U.S. Central Command said in a statement on X.

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U.S. CENTCOM Destroys Houthi Terrorists' Anti-Ship Missile 
 
As part of ongoing efforts to protect freedom of navigation and prevent attacks on maritime vessels, on Jan. 20 at approximately 4 a.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. Central Command forces conducted airstrikes against a Houthi… <a href="https://t.co/NYWPHyf7qN">pic.twitter.com/NYWPHyf7qN</a>
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&nbsp;

On Friday (Jan 19), US Central Command forces conducted strikes against three Houthi anti-ship missiles that they said were aimed into the Southern Red Sea.

Watch |&nbsp;US &amp; Britain unleash typhoons, Tomahawks &amp; nuclear submarine on Houthis in Yemen

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&nbsp;

<h2>‘Strikes against Houthis to continue,’ says Biden</h2>

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Jan 18) said that the military strikes against the Houthis would continue as he said that the rebel group was still attacking vessels in the Red Sea.

"When you say 'working, are they stopping the Houthi?' No. Are they going to continue? Yes," Biden told reporters at the White House when asked if the strikes were working.

Washington on Wednesday (Jan 17) re-designated the Houthis as a "terrorist group" and hit 14 Houthi missiles later the same day. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

UK's Ministry of Defence on Sunday (Jan 21) announced its expenditure to upgrade a projectile system, that currently is being used by the Royal Navy, to shoot down drones over the Red Sea.

UK's Ministry of Defence on Sunday (Jan 21) announced its expenditure to upgrade a projectile system, that currently is being used by the Royal Navy, to shoot down drones over the Red Sea. Britain's Ministry of Defence said that it would spend a total of $514 million (405 million pounds) on the Sea Viper Air Defence system. The MoD released a statement saying that Sea Viper would be upgraded with missiles featuring a new warhead and software that will allow it to counter ballistic missile threats. The contracts were awarded to the British division of MBDA, a missiles joint venture owned by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, the statement further added. "As the situation in the Middle East worsens, it is vital that we adapt to keep the UK, our allies and partners safe," Defence Minister Grant Shapps said in the statement. "Sea Viper has been at the forefront of this, being the Navy's weapon of choice in the first shooting down of an aerial threat in more than 30 years." The announcement comes amid tensions in the Red Sea region after the United States and Britain launched retaliatory coalition strikes and shot down drones by Yemen's Houthi rebel group as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to heighten. Earlier, on Saturday (Jan 20), the United States had launched fresh strikes on Yemen's Houthi rebels targeting an anti-ship ballistic missile, which as per the US army, was aimed into the Gulf of Aden and was prepared to launch. Also read: At least 25 killed in Ukraine shelling on Russian-controlled city of Donetsk "US forces determined the missile presented a threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region and subsequently struck and destroyed the missile in self-defence," the U.S. Central Command said in a statement on X. U.S. CENTCOM Destroys Houthi Terrorists' Anti-Ship Missile As part of ongoing efforts to protect freedom of navigation and prevent attacks on maritime vessels, on Jan. 20 at approximately 4 a.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. Central Command forces conducted airstrikes against a Houthi… pic.twitter.com/NYWPHyf7qN — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) January 20, 2024 × On Friday (Jan 19), US Central Command forces conducted strikes against three Houthi anti-ship missiles that they said were aimed into the Southern Red Sea. Watch | US & Britain unleash typhoons, Tomahawks & nuclear submarine on Houthis in Yemen × ‘Strikes against Houthis to continue,’ says Biden United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Jan 18) said that the military strikes against the Houthis would continue as he said that the rebel group was still attacking vessels in the Red Sea. "When you say 'working, are they stopping the Houthi?' No. Are they going to continue? Yes," Biden told reporters at the White House when asked if the strikes were working. Washington on Wednesday (Jan 17) re-designated the Houthis as a "terrorist group" and hit 14 Houthi missiles later the same day. (With inputs from agencies)

UK to spend millions for upgradation of missile system used in Red Sea amid rising tensions

Christian Nolen, a man from Florida, US, recently underwent brain surgery to remove a tumour from his head while fully awake, in fact, he also played guitar.&nbsp;

When one thinks about major surgeries, people mostly opt to be out cold with the anaesthesia procedure, in which medicines are used to prevent pain during surgery and other procedures.&nbsp;

But sometimes they have to be conscious of the procedure. In medical terms, it is known as awake craniotomy, which is a type of procedure performed on the brain while the patient is awake and able to talk to the operative team.&nbsp;

US-based media reports mentioned that the neurological team from the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine wanted Nolen to play notes on the instrument.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-man-receives-miraculous-double-lung-transplant-after-heavy-vaping-overcomes-1-survival-odds-682551">US man receives miraculous double lung transplant after heavy vaping, overcomes 1% survival odds</a>

They wanted to monitor the progress of the surgery as it is difficult for the doctors to get feedback when the patient is asleep during surgery.&nbsp;

The team said that playing the guitar would help them to evaluate and protect his manual dexterity while being as aggressive as possible in removing the tumour.&nbsp;

While speaking to Fox News Digital about the experience, Ricardo Komotar, MD, director of the brain tumour programme at Sylvester, said: "Christian was having issues with the left side of his body, particularly his left hand."&nbsp;

"He was noticing issues with his dexterity that affected his ability to play the guitar," Komotar added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-devise-way-to-convert-toxic-cigarette-butts-into-green-fuel-673690">Scientists devise way to convert toxic cigarette butts into green fuel</a>&nbsp;

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This is incredible. 
 
Playing a guitar during brain surgery. 
 
Some news is amazing and this was a story I just had to post. 
 
P.S. Did anyone see the movie Hannibal? It brought me back to a dreadful scene. I won't go into detail, but it certainly made that scene plausible.… <a href="https://t.co/ENHdso8voc">pic.twitter.com/ENHdso8voc</a>
— Jennifer Coffindaffer (@CoffindafferFBI) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoffindafferFBI/status/1747271605825454459?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Komotar noted that Nolen needed surgery to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of tumour — as every tumour has different treatment options. they also removed the tumour to the extent possible.&nbsp;

Komotar added, "When a tumour is involving or near a critical part of the brain — something that controls the ability to speak or understand language or move — we want to do the surgery awake to continually monitor the patient, so you know if you start to violate normal brain functions."&nbsp;

In an e-mail sent to Fox News Digital, Nolen said that at first it "didn't seem real".&nbsp;

"I'd only really heard of procedures of that nature being done in shows and movies. I felt like it was such a unique experience that I couldn’t pass up — especially with my motor skills being on the line," he added.&nbsp;

Christian Nolen, a man from Florida, US, recently underwent brain surgery to remove a tumour from his head while fully awake, in fact, he also played guitar. When one thinks about major surgeries, people mostly opt to be out cold with the anaesthesia procedure, in which medicines are used to prevent pain during surgery and other procedures.

Christian Nolen, a man from Florida, US, recently underwent brain surgery to remove a tumour from his head while fully awake, in fact, he also played guitar. When one thinks about major surgeries, people mostly opt to be out cold with the anaesthesia procedure, in which medicines are used to prevent pain during surgery and other procedures. But sometimes they have to be conscious of the procedure. In medical terms, it is known as awake craniotomy, which is a type of procedure performed on the brain while the patient is awake and able to talk to the operative team. US-based media reports mentioned that the neurological team from the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine wanted Nolen to play notes on the instrument. Also read: US man receives miraculous double lung transplant after heavy vaping, overcomes 1% survival odds They wanted to monitor the progress of the surgery as it is difficult for the doctors to get feedback when the patient is asleep during surgery. The team said that playing the guitar would help them to evaluate and protect his manual dexterity while being as aggressive as possible in removing the tumour. While speaking to Fox News Digital about the experience, Ricardo Komotar, MD, director of the brain tumour programme at Sylvester, said: "Christian was having issues with the left side of his body, particularly his left hand." "He was noticing issues with his dexterity that affected his ability to play the guitar," Komotar added. Also read: Scientists devise way to convert toxic cigarette butts into green fuel This is incredible. Playing a guitar during brain surgery. Some news is amazing and this was a story I just had to post. P.S. Did anyone see the movie Hannibal? It brought me back to a dreadful scene. I won't go into detail, but it certainly made that scene plausible.… pic.twitter.com/ENHdso8voc — Jennifer Coffindaffer (@CoffindafferFBI) January 16, 2024 × Komotar noted that Nolen needed surgery to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of tumour — as every tumour has different treatment options. they also removed the tumour to the extent possible. Komotar added, "When a tumour is involving or near a critical part of the brain — something that controls the ability to speak or understand language or move — we want to do the surgery awake to continually monitor the patient, so you know if you start to violate normal brain functions." In an e-mail sent to Fox News Digital, Nolen said that at first it "didn't seem real". "I'd only really heard of procedures of that nature being done in shows and movies. I felt like it was such a unique experience that I couldn’t pass up — especially with my motor skills being on the line," he added.

Florida man plays guitar during brain tumour surgery: ‘Didn’t seem real’ - see pic

United States on Saturday (Jan 20) launched fresh strike on Yemen's Houthi rebels targeting an anti-ship ballistic missile, which as per US army, was aimed into the Gulf of Aden and prepared to launch.

"US forces determined the missile presented a threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region, and subsequently struck and destroyed the missile in self-defense," the U.S. Central Command said in a statement on X.

This came amid heightening tensions in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden that have caused disruptions in the global trade and has raised concerns over supply chain bottlenecks.

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U.S. CENTCOM Destroys Houthi Terrorists' Anti-Ship Missile 
 
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&nbsp;

Earlier on Friday (Jan 19), US Central Command forces conducted strikes against three Houthi anti-ship missiles that they said were aimed into the Southern Red Sea.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-launches-satellite-places-it-in-750-km-orbit-official-news-agency-681887">Iran launches satellite, places it in 750 km orbit: Official news agency</a>

<h2>‘Strikes against Houthis to continue,’ says Biden</h2>

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Jan 18) said that the military strikes against the Houthis would continue as he said that the rebel group was still attacking vessels in the Red Sea.

"When you say 'working, are they stopping the Houthi?' No. Are they going to continue? Yes," Biden told reporters at the White House when asked if the strikes were working.

Washington on Wednesday (Jan 17) re-designated the Houthis as a "terrorist group" and hit 14 Houthi missiles later the same day. &nbsp;

Watch | Houthi rebels target US vessel, Indian Navy warship moves to assist attacked vessel

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&nbsp;

<h2>Missiles hit US-led coalition base in Iraq</h2>

Meanwhile, on Saturday, missiles were launched targeting a military base used by US-led coalition forces in western Iraq, a US defence source and Iraqi police told news agency AFP.

"Al-Asad airbase was targeted by 15 rockets" that were fired from Anbar province, where the military base is located, he said.

He further added that 13 of the projectiles were shot down by anti-air defences but "two fell on the airbase".

There have been dozens of attacks on United States and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria since the war broke out between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas.

"Islamic Resistance in Iraq" has claimed responsibility for the majority of the attacks aimed at US troops.

This is an alliance of Iran-linked armed groups that are against US support for Israel in the Gaza war.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States on Saturday (Jan 20) launched fresh strike on Yemen's Houthi rebels targeting an anti-ship ballistic missile, which as per US army, was aimed into the Gulf of Aden and prepared to launch.

United States on Saturday (Jan 20) launched fresh strike on Yemen's Houthi rebels targeting an anti-ship ballistic missile, which as per US army, was aimed into the Gulf of Aden and prepared to launch. "US forces determined the missile presented a threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region, and subsequently struck and destroyed the missile in self-defense," the U.S. Central Command said in a statement on X. This came amid heightening tensions in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden that have caused disruptions in the global trade and has raised concerns over supply chain bottlenecks. U.S. CENTCOM Destroys Houthi Terrorists' Anti-Ship Missile As part of ongoing efforts to protect freedom of navigation and prevent attacks on maritime vessels, on Jan. 20 at approximately 4 a.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. Central Command forces conducted airstrikes against a Houthi… pic.twitter.com/NYWPHyf7qN — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) January 20, 2024 × Earlier on Friday (Jan 19), US Central Command forces conducted strikes against three Houthi anti-ship missiles that they said were aimed into the Southern Red Sea. Also read: Iran launches satellite, places it in 750 km orbit: Official news agency ‘Strikes against Houthis to continue,’ says Biden United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Jan 18) said that the military strikes against the Houthis would continue as he said that the rebel group was still attacking vessels in the Red Sea. "When you say 'working, are they stopping the Houthi?' No. Are they going to continue? Yes," Biden told reporters at the White House when asked if the strikes were working. Washington on Wednesday (Jan 17) re-designated the Houthis as a "terrorist group" and hit 14 Houthi missiles later the same day. Watch | Houthi rebels target US vessel, Indian Navy warship moves to assist attacked vessel × Missiles hit US-led coalition base in Iraq Meanwhile, on Saturday, missiles were launched targeting a military base used by US-led coalition forces in western Iraq, a US defence source and Iraqi police told news agency AFP. "Al-Asad airbase was targeted by 15 rockets" that were fired from Anbar province, where the military base is located, he said. He further added that 13 of the projectiles were shot down by anti-air defences but "two fell on the airbase". There have been dozens of attacks on United States and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria since the war broke out between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas. "Islamic Resistance in Iraq" has claimed responsibility for the majority of the attacks aimed at US troops. This is an alliance of Iran-linked armed groups that are against US support for Israel in the Gaza war. (With inputs from agencies)

US hits another Houthi anti-ship missile aimed into the Gulf of Aden

India could ease its heightened scrutiny of Chinese investments if the two countries' border remains peaceful, a senior Indian official said in the first signal that the four-year-old curbs could be lifted.

Border tensions, the biggest irritant to relations between the nuclear-armed Asian giants, have eased, which could lead to improved investment ties, top industrial policy bureaucrat Rajesh Kumar Singh told Reuters on Wednesday at the annual World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, Switzerland.

In 2020, India tightened scrutiny on investments from companies based in countries it borders, adding a layer of vetting and security clearances.

The move was widely seen as retaliation for a clash between Chinese and Indian troops on their disputed, 3,800-km (2,400-mile) Himalayan frontier that killed at least 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers, their worst military conflict in decades.

The curbs have disrupted billions of dollars of investments between the world's two most populous countries, halting planned projects including from Chinese automakers BYD and Great Wall Motor.

The investment rules "could change once our relationship there stabilises because I think the border issues that we've had - the border has stabilised", Singh, secretary at the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, said in an interview.

"On the investment side also, if things go well, I'm sure we can resume normal business."

He did not give a timeframe for a possible easing.

Asked if India's message was that Chinese investments depend on a peaceful border, Singh said, "You can't have somebody nibbling at your border while at the same time having red-carpet treatment for investments from there."

The investment curbs, he said, were a slight "step back" from India's broader opening to foreign investment in recent years. India has significantly reduced hurdles for inbound investment, lowering or scrapping foreign ownership caps in many sectors and granting automatic approvals.

Despite the border problems, China is India's largest source of imports, with bilateral trade rising 32% since tensions flared to nearly $114 billion in the fiscal year that ended in March.

Indian and Chinese troops clashed twice in 2022 even as peace talks were ongoing. New Delhi and Beijing, which fought a brief border war in 1962, have held a series of diplomatic and military talks to resolve the conflict.

The two neighbours must find a way to step back from potential confrontation in the western Himalayas, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said in June.

But, Singh said, "In the last year or so, there haven't been any incidents. So I'm expressing the general hope from the business community that things will, you know, stabilise and improve."

A mechanism to review foreign investments from all countries, resembling those in the United States and Australia, is an option India could eventually consider, Singh said, adding no decision has been taken as India would want to maintain a "welcoming environment" for investments.

India could ease its heightened scrutiny of Chinese investments if the two countries' border remains peaceful, a senior Indian official said in the first signal that the four-year-old curbs could be lifted.

India could ease its heightened scrutiny of Chinese investments if the two countries' border remains peaceful, a senior Indian official said in the first signal that the four-year-old curbs could be lifted. Border tensions, the biggest irritant to relations between the nuclear-armed Asian giants, have eased, which could lead to improved investment ties, top industrial policy bureaucrat Rajesh Kumar Singh told Reuters on Wednesday at the annual World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, Switzerland. In 2020, India tightened scrutiny on investments from companies based in countries it borders, adding a layer of vetting and security clearances. The move was widely seen as retaliation for a clash between Chinese and Indian troops on their disputed, 3,800-km (2,400-mile) Himalayan frontier that killed at least 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers, their worst military conflict in decades. The curbs have disrupted billions of dollars of investments between the world's two most populous countries, halting planned projects including from Chinese automakers BYD and Great Wall Motor. The investment rules "could change once our relationship there stabilises because I think the border issues that we've had - the border has stabilised", Singh, secretary at the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, said in an interview. "On the investment side also, if things go well, I'm sure we can resume normal business." He did not give a timeframe for a possible easing. Asked if India's message was that Chinese investments depend on a peaceful border, Singh said, "You can't have somebody nibbling at your border while at the same time having red-carpet treatment for investments from there." The investment curbs, he said, were a slight "step back" from India's broader opening to foreign investment in recent years. India has significantly reduced hurdles for inbound investment, lowering or scrapping foreign ownership caps in many sectors and granting automatic approvals. Despite the border problems, China is India's largest source of imports, with bilateral trade rising 32% since tensions flared to nearly $114 billion in the fiscal year that ended in March. Indian and Chinese troops clashed twice in 2022 even as peace talks were ongoing. New Delhi and Beijing, which fought a brief border war in 1962, have held a series of diplomatic and military talks to resolve the conflict. The two neighbours must find a way to step back from potential confrontation in the western Himalayas, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said in June. But, Singh said, "In the last year or so, there haven't been any incidents. So I'm expressing the general hope from the business community that things will, you know, stabilise and improve." A mechanism to review foreign investments from all countries, resembling those in the United States and Australia, is an option India could eventually consider, Singh said, adding no decision has been taken as India would want to maintain a "welcoming environment" for investments.

India could ease China investment curbs if border stays calm: Report

The fourth largest country by land area, the United States, quietly grew about 6.2 lakh square kilometres after the latest modification in the extended continental shelf by the Department of State of the country, last month.

US land mass expands 621,000 square km | Land area added is nearly twice size of Spain

Yemen's Houthi rebels on Sunday (Jan 14) reported fresh strikes that hit the port city of Hodeida, condemning the United States and Britain for targeted attacks.

However, the United States denied the reports saying no coalition strike was conducted by Washington and London today.

A US defence official speaking on condition of anonymity said, "No US or coalition strike occurred today."

The Iran-backed rebel group's website had earlier said that “air strikes from the American-British aggression hit Hodeida.”

The website, citing a security source, said that the strikes hit the Jabal Jada area in the Al-Luhaya district of Hodeida governorate, which is situated on Yemen's Red Sea coast.

WATCH | Biden says US sent private message to Iran about Houthi attacks

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The United States and British forces on Friday (Jan 12) launched strikes in retaliation to the attacks by Houthi rebels on Red Sea shipping vessels which are linked to Israel.

The rebels claim that their attacks are aimed at showing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthis-say-strikes-will-not-go-unpunished-or-unanswered-679470">Yemen's Houthis say strikes will not go 'unpunished or unanswered'</a>

<h2>'Security of all shipping harmed after US strikes on Yemen', says Hezbollah</h2>

The Hezbollah group on Sunday said that the United States was mistaken if it assumed that the Houthis would cease confronting Israel in the Red Sea, further stating that the US actions there would jeopardize the safety of all marine navigation.

“If (US President) Biden and those with him think the Yemenis will stop supporting Gaza in the Red Sea, they are wrong and ignorant. They don’t know Yemen, its people and its leadership and its history. They don’t know anything,” Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah

Dubbing the coalition strikes by the US and Britain as "an act of stupidity", Nasrallah said the Houthis would continue targeting ships belonging to Israel and going to its ports.

"The more dangerous thing is what the Americans did in the Red Sea will harm the security of all maritime navigation, even the ships that are not going to Palestine, even the ships which are not Israeli, even the ships that have nothing to do with the matter because the sea has become a theatre of fighting, missiles, drones and warships," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Yemen's Houthi rebels on Sunday (Jan 14) reported fresh strikes that hit the port city of Hodeida, condemning the United States and Britain for targeted attacks.

Yemen's Houthi rebels on Sunday (Jan 14) reported fresh strikes that hit the port city of Hodeida, condemning the United States and Britain for targeted attacks. However, the United States denied the reports saying no coalition strike was conducted by Washington and London today. A US defence official speaking on condition of anonymity said, "No US or coalition strike occurred today." The Iran-backed rebel group's website had earlier said that “air strikes from the American-British aggression hit Hodeida.” The website, citing a security source, said that the strikes hit the Jabal Jada area in the Al-Luhaya district of Hodeida governorate, which is situated on Yemen's Red Sea coast. WATCH | Biden says US sent private message to Iran about Houthi attacks × The United States and British forces on Friday (Jan 12) launched strikes in retaliation to the attacks by Houthi rebels on Red Sea shipping vessels which are linked to Israel. The rebels claim that their attacks are aimed at showing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Also read: Yemen's Houthis say strikes will not go 'unpunished or unanswered' 'Security of all shipping harmed after US strikes on Yemen', says Hezbollah The Hezbollah group on Sunday said that the United States was mistaken if it assumed that the Houthis would cease confronting Israel in the Red Sea, further stating that the US actions there would jeopardize the safety of all marine navigation. “If (US President) Biden and those with him think the Yemenis will stop supporting Gaza in the Red Sea, they are wrong and ignorant. They don’t know Yemen, its people and its leadership and its history. They don’t know anything,” Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah Dubbing the coalition strikes by the US and Britain as "an act of stupidity", Nasrallah said the Houthis would continue targeting ships belonging to Israel and going to its ports. "The more dangerous thing is what the Americans did in the Red Sea will harm the security of all maritime navigation, even the ships that are not going to Palestine, even the ships which are not Israeli, even the ships that have nothing to do with the matter because the sea has become a theatre of fighting, missiles, drones and warships," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Houthis claim fresh strikes hit port city of Yemen; US denies new attacks

China on Saturday (Jan 13) fumed over Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader Lai Ching-te as he won the elections in Taiwan and is set to become the island's president in May.

China on Saturday (Jan 13) fumed over Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader Lai Ching-te as he won the elections in Taiwan and is set to become the island's president in May. According to a report by the news agency Xinhua, China vowed that it would not tolerate "separatist activities in Taiwan" that it claims as its own. According to a report by the news agency Xinhua, Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Chen Binhua said, "We will adhere to the 1992 Consensus that embodies the one-China principle and firmly oppose the separatist activities aimed at 'Taiwan independence' as well as foreign interference." Binhua also said that Saturday's vote "will not impede the inevitable trend of China's reunification." He added, "The Democratic Progressive Party cannot represent the mainstream public opinion on the island." US reacts to polls result This year's Taiwan election was closely watched by China as well as the United States. The US on Saturday congratulated Lai Ching-te but maintained that Washington does not support independence for the self-ruled island claimed by Beijing. "We do not support independence," US President Joe Biden told a press conference after he was asked about his government's position on Taiwan. Also read | Taiwan elections 2024: Lai Ching-te to be next president. Who is he? In a statement, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated Lai on his victory in the pivotal vote and hailed the "robust democratic system and electoral process" of the self-ruled island. The Biden administration had announced earlier that it planned to send an unofficial delegation to Taiwan after the vote and warned China against any military provocation. Lai vows to defend Taiwan from China's threats In his victory speech, president-elect Lai vowed to protect Taiwan from "intimidation" by China. Lai said he would maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, but pledged to defend the island from Chinese belligerence. "We are determined to safeguard Taiwan from continuing threats and intimidation from China," he added. Also watch | Taiwan voters rebuff China, give ruling party third Presidential term × He further thanked the Taiwanese people for "writing a new chapter in our democracy" by defying one-party-state China's threats and warnings. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Will not tolerate separatist activities’: China fumes over Taiwan elections result

The case filed against Brittany Watts – a woman from Ohio – who had suffered a miscarriage and was facing indictment for abuse of a corpse, will not be taken forward, decided the grand jury on Thursday (Jan 11). 
 
The grand jury of Trumbull County, Ohio, refused to indict Watts, against whom a case was filed by the police after she suffered a miscarriage in September. The judges cancelled the indictment by returning a “no-bill” in Watts’s case. 
 
The case&nbsp;has led to nationwide shock and outcry. It is being&nbsp;held as an example by experts in reproductive health and justice of how pregnant women can easily face criminal consequences, since the overturning of Roe v Wade.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-face-brutal-arctic-blast-temperatures-likely-to-drop-to-minus-30s-679285">US to face brutal Arctic blast, temperatures likely to drop to minus 30s</a>

In a statement on Thursday (Jan 11), reproductive justice advocacy group If/When/How's senior litigation counsel Yveka Pierra said, “This decision does not erase the harm that Brittany has experienced as the result of this case. Brittany should have been able to focus on taking care of herself after her pregnancy loss.” 
 
“Cases like Brittany’s show us that, depending on your identity, the state treats some losses as tragedies and other losses as crimes,” Pierra added.

<h2 lang="en-US">Watts suffered a miscarriage inside the toilet</h2>

As per reports, Watts had suffered a miscarriage in the toilet in September when she had completed only 22 weeks of her pregnancy. She then made efforts to remove the mass which had clogged the toilet and visited the hospital, where a nurse reportedly called the police. 
 
Earlier, Watts had visited the hospital and was showing signs that her water had broken prematurely. Such a condition makes it impossible to carry on with pregnancy and if the woman is not treated, she can slip into deadly sepsis. 
 
Ohio’s “abuse of a corpse” charge depends on whether a corpse was treated by someone in a way that would “outrage reasonable community sensibilities”. If Watts had been convicted of the fifth-degree felony, she would have been in prison for a year.

Watch:&nbsp;US: Donald Trump's New York Civil fraud trial wraps up, judge asks lawyers to 'control your client'

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Before the jury decided on Thursday, an open letter was sent by Ohio Physicians for Reproductive Rights to Trumbull County prosecutor Dennis Watkins, on Watts’s behalf. 
 
“By seeking to indict her, you are clearly implying that anyone who miscarries at any point in pregnancy in our state must retrieve the fetal tissue whether they are at home, at work, at school, at a restaurant or other public place and preserve it until the tissue can be disposed of properly even though Ohio law does not define what a proper disposal method would be nor require that this non-existent method be used,” wrote the group. 
 
“We have no doubt that women facing the threat of jail time and hefty fines will conceal the fact that they have miscarried and refuse to seek treatment,” they added.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The case filed against Brittany Watts – a woman from Ohio – who had suffered a miscarriage and was facing indictment for abuse of a corpse, will not be taken forward, decided the grand jury on Thursday (Jan 11).

The case filed against Brittany Watts – a woman from Ohio – who had suffered a miscarriage and was facing indictment for abuse of a corpse, will not be taken forward, decided the grand jury on Thursday (Jan 11). The grand jury of Trumbull County, Ohio, refused to indict Watts, against whom a case was filed by the police after she suffered a miscarriage in September. The judges cancelled the indictment by returning a “no-bill” in Watts’s case. The case has led to nationwide shock and outcry. It is being held as an example by experts in reproductive health and justice of how pregnant women can easily face criminal consequences, since the overturning of Roe v Wade. Also read: US to face brutal Arctic blast, temperatures likely to drop to minus 30s In a statement on Thursday (Jan 11), reproductive justice advocacy group If/When/How's senior litigation counsel Yveka Pierra said, “This decision does not erase the harm that Brittany has experienced as the result of this case. Brittany should have been able to focus on taking care of herself after her pregnancy loss.” “Cases like Brittany’s show us that, depending on your identity, the state treats some losses as tragedies and other losses as crimes,” Pierra added. Watts suffered a miscarriage inside the toilet As per reports, Watts had suffered a miscarriage in the toilet in September when she had completed only 22 weeks of her pregnancy. She then made efforts to remove the mass which had clogged the toilet and visited the hospital, where a nurse reportedly called the police. Earlier, Watts had visited the hospital and was showing signs that her water had broken prematurely. Such a condition makes it impossible to carry on with pregnancy and if the woman is not treated, she can slip into deadly sepsis. Ohio’s “abuse of a corpse” charge depends on whether a corpse was treated by someone in a way that would “outrage reasonable community sensibilities”. If Watts had been convicted of the fifth-degree felony, she would have been in prison for a year. Watch: US: Donald Trump's New York Civil fraud trial wraps up, judge asks lawyers to 'control your client' Before the jury decided on Thursday, an open letter was sent by Ohio Physicians for Reproductive Rights to Trumbull County prosecutor Dennis Watkins, on Watts’s behalf. “By seeking to indict her, you are clearly implying that anyone who miscarries at any point in pregnancy in our state must retrieve the fetal tissue whether they are at home, at work, at school, at a restaurant or other public place and preserve it until the tissue can be disposed of properly even though Ohio law does not define what a proper disposal method would be nor require that this non-existent method be used,” wrote the group. “We have no doubt that women facing the threat of jail time and hefty fines will conceal the fact that they have miscarried and refuse to seek treatment,” they added. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Jury decides not to indict Ohio woman for abuse of corpse after miscarriage

A brutal and chilling blast of Arctic wind is expected to spread through the central US, which is on the verge of facing a powerful storm, eventually bringing the season's coldest air to as far south as Texas. 
 
Iowa, which is set to host the first presidential caucus&nbsp;for the 2024 election on Monday (Jan 8), is likely to hold the coldest caucus ever conducted in the history of the state. The cold is also expected to test the vulnerable-to-extreme-temperatures power grid of Texas for the first time in the ongoing winter season. 
 
It is expected that temperatures are likely to drop as low as minus 20 to 30 degrees in the northern Plains on both Friday (Jan 12) and Saturday (Jan 13) and will be combined with gusty winds which is likely to make wind chills more frigid and may push temperature to 50 degrees below zero.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-winter-storm-brings-strong-winds-and-heavy-snow-in-parts-of-us-677961">Winter storm brings strong winds, rainfall and heavy snow in parts of US</a> 
 
In the central United States, more than 15 million people have been under wind chill alerts where they are likely to get frostbite on their exposed skin in just 10 minutes. The cold wave is likely to spread in the country's south and east and eventually envelop Texas as well as other parts of the South.

<h2 lang="en-US">Blizzard conditions, severe weather chaos in the US</h2>

A powerful storm, which started from the Southwest of the US and the Rocky Mountains, has been moving eastward and is likely to bring blizzard conditions as well as severe frigid conditions to many parts of the country in the coming days. 
 
As per the FOX Forecast Centre, a swath of heavy snow will be covering places from Missouri to Michigan, while severe thunderstorms are likely to lash areas from Texas to the Carolinas and the mid-Atlantic.

Watch:&nbsp;Major winter storm slams US with power outages

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The storm system has similarities with the previous two which had spared the Northeast's major cities from snowfall, as the coastal temperatures were too high for snow to form. However, once the wind and snow get intense, the situation is likely to be very different for the Great Lakes region. 
 
The storm system has already led to blizzard conditions on some mountains in the Pacific Northwest and caused a fatal avalanche in California. 
 
It is expected that the storm system will have an impact on the Plains late on Thursday (Jan 11) and will also impact the eastern half of the country till it travels to Canada and off the Eastern Seaboard on Saturday. 
 
The snowfall is likely to be the lightest over the Plains and is set to become heavier and more widespread over the Great Lakes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A brutal and chilling blast of Arctic wind is expected to spread through the central US, which is on the verge of facing a powerful storm, eventually bringing the season's coldest air to as far south as Texas.

A brutal and chilling blast of Arctic wind is expected to spread through the central US, which is on the verge of facing a powerful storm, eventually bringing the season's coldest air to as far south as Texas. Iowa, which is set to host the first presidential caucus for the 2024 election on Monday (Jan 8), is likely to hold the coldest caucus ever conducted in the history of the state. The cold is also expected to test the vulnerable-to-extreme-temperatures power grid of Texas for the first time in the ongoing winter season. It is expected that temperatures are likely to drop as low as minus 20 to 30 degrees in the northern Plains on both Friday (Jan 12) and Saturday (Jan 13) and will be combined with gusty winds which is likely to make wind chills more frigid and may push temperature to 50 degrees below zero. Also read: Winter storm brings strong winds, rainfall and heavy snow in parts of US In the central United States, more than 15 million people have been under wind chill alerts where they are likely to get frostbite on their exposed skin in just 10 minutes. The cold wave is likely to spread in the country's south and east and eventually envelop Texas as well as other parts of the South. Blizzard conditions, severe weather chaos in the US A powerful storm, which started from the Southwest of the US and the Rocky Mountains, has been moving eastward and is likely to bring blizzard conditions as well as severe frigid conditions to many parts of the country in the coming days. As per the FOX Forecast Centre, a swath of heavy snow will be covering places from Missouri to Michigan, while severe thunderstorms are likely to lash areas from Texas to the Carolinas and the mid-Atlantic. Watch: Major winter storm slams US with power outages The storm system has similarities with the previous two which had spared the Northeast's major cities from snowfall, as the coastal temperatures were too high for snow to form. However, once the wind and snow get intense, the situation is likely to be very different for the Great Lakes region. The storm system has already led to blizzard conditions on some mountains in the Pacific Northwest and caused a fatal avalanche in California. It is expected that the storm system will have an impact on the Plains late on Thursday (Jan 11) and will also impact the eastern half of the country till it travels to Canada and off the Eastern Seaboard on Saturday. The snowfall is likely to be the lightest over the Plains and is set to become heavier and more widespread over the Great Lakes. (With inputs from agencies)

US to face brutal Arctic blast, temperatures likely to drop to minus 30s

President Joe Biden on Thursday (Jan 11) announced that a coalition led by the US and UK launched air strikes targeting Houthis in Yemen in a "defensive action", in the wake of escalating attacks by the Iran-backed rebels on vessels in the Red Sea.&nbsp;

Five people were killed and six others were wounded in the missile strikes carried out by the US and UK, said the Iran-backed Houthi forces&nbsp;on Friday (Jan 12). "The raids led to the death of five martyrs and the injury of six others from our armed forces," said Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree, on X.

Biden warned he "will not hesitate" to give orders for further military action, if required. The air strikes were made on various cities in Yemen, where the Houthis are controlling a good amount of territory, reported news agency AFP. 
 
Australia also provided personnel support to the strikes, which&nbsp;involved various Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets, according to the reports. 
 
"Today, at my direction, US military forces -- together with the United Kingdom and with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands - successfully conducted strikes against several targets in Yemen used by Houthi rebels to endanger freedom of navigation in one of the world's most vital waterways," Biden said, using an alternate spelling of Huthi. 
 
He said that the strikes are a "direct response" to "unprecedented" attacks launched by the Houthis, "including the use of anti-ship ballistic missiles for the first time in history".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-calls-for-immediate-end-of-attacks-by-yemens-houthi-rebels-on-red-sea-678877">UNSC calls for 'immediate end' to attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels in Red Sea</a>

"These attacks have endangered US personnel, civilian mariners, and our partners, jeopardised trade, and threatened freedom of navigation," Biden said, emphasising that Washington and its allies "will not tolerate attacks on our personnel or allow hostile actors to imperil freedom of navigation." 
 
"I will not hesitate to direct further measures to protect our people and the free flow of international commerce as necessary,” asserted the US president.

Biden further said that the Houthi rebels on January 9 had "launched their largest attack to date - directly targeting American ships."

<h2 lang="en-US">Sunak says attacks on Houthis 'necessary and proportionate'</h2>

In a statement, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that the strikes carried out on Houthi rebels in Yemen were "necessary and proportionate". 
 
"Despite the repeated warnings from the international community, the Houthis have continued to carry out attacks in the Red Sea. We have therefore taken limited, necessary and proportionate action in self-defence, alongside the United States... to degrade Houthi military capabilities and protect global shipping,” Sunak said.

<h2 lang="en-US">US defence secretary warns Houthis to back down</h2>

Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin on Thursday said that the strikes were carried out to reduce the Houthi rebels' ability to target international shipping. 
 
"Today's strikes targeted sites associated with the Houthis' unmanned aerial vehicle, ballistic and cruise missile, and coastal radar and air surveillance capabilities," said Austin, in a statement.

Watch:&nbsp;Red Sea conflict: UN Security Council demands Houthis to stop Red Sea shipping attacks

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"This action is intended to disrupt and degrade the Huthis' capabilities to endanger mariners and threaten global trade in one of the world's most critical waterways. Today’s coalition action sends a clear message to the Huthis that they will bear further costs if they do not end their illegal attacks," Austin said.

<h2 lang="en-US">Aim to 'restore stability in the Red Sea': US and allies</h2>

After launching strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen, the United States and its allies said that stabilising crucial Red Sea shipping lanes is their main goal. 
 
"Our aim remains to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea, but let our message be clear: we will not hesitate to defend lives and protect the free flow of commerce in one of the world's most critical waterways in the face of continued threats," said a joint statement, released by the governments of Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Korea, United Kingdom and the United States. 
 
The Houthis have launched various attacks on some major international sea routes since the Israel-Hamas war erupted with the unprecedented attack by the Palestinian militant group on Tel Aviv on October 7.

<h2 lang="en-US">Australia extended support to US and UK airstrikes on Houthis</h2>

Australia also supported the US and UK militaries when dozens of airstrikes were launched against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said that the decision to launch the strikes “was not taken lightly”.

“On 4 January Australia was part of [a group of] 14 countries which issued a statement warning the Houthi rebels that if they continue to attack maritime activity in the Red Sea, there would be consequences,” Defence Minister Marles said.

“They have continued their attacks on maritime and naval assets. As a result, the attacks today have occurred,” he added.

<h2 lang="en-US">Houthi-led Yemen's minister says&nbsp;US, UK will have to pay heavy price for attack</h2>

Deputy foreign minister of Houthi-led Yemen Hussein al-Ezzi said that the United States and the United Kingdom will have to pay a heavy price for the aggressive attack on Houthi rebels, as quoted by CNN.

"Our country was subjected to a massive aggressive attack by American and British ships, submarines, and warplanes, and America and Britain will undoubtedly have to prepare to pay a heavy price and bear all the dire consequences of this blatant aggression," said al-Ezzi.

<h2 lang="en-US">Russia appeals for UNSC meeting after strike by US, Britain on Yemen</h2>

Russia appealed for the United Nations Security Council's urgent meeting on Friday (Jan 12) to discuss military strikes carried out by the United States and Britain on Yemen.

"Russia has requested an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council on January 12 in connection with the U.S. and UK strikes on Yemen," Russia's permanent mission to the United Nations said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

President Joe Biden on Thursday (Jan 11) announced that a coalition led by the US and UK launched air strikes targeting Houthis in Yemen in a "defensive action", in the wake of escalating attacks by the Iran-backed rebels on vessels in the Red Sea.

President Joe Biden on Thursday (Jan 11) announced that a coalition led by the US and UK launched air strikes targeting Houthis in Yemen in a "defensive action", in the wake of escalating attacks by the Iran-backed rebels on vessels in the Red Sea. Five people were killed and six others were wounded in the missile strikes carried out by the US and UK, said the Iran-backed Houthi forces on Friday (Jan 12). "The raids led to the death of five martyrs and the injury of six others from our armed forces," said Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree, on X. Biden warned he "will not hesitate" to give orders for further military action, if required. The air strikes were made on various cities in Yemen, where the Houthis are controlling a good amount of territory, reported news agency AFP. Australia also provided personnel support to the strikes, which involved various Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets, according to the reports. "Today, at my direction, US military forces -- together with the United Kingdom and with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands - successfully conducted strikes against several targets in Yemen used by Houthi rebels to endanger freedom of navigation in one of the world's most vital waterways," Biden said, using an alternate spelling of Huthi. He said that the strikes are a "direct response" to "unprecedented" attacks launched by the Houthis, "including the use of anti-ship ballistic missiles for the first time in history". Also read: UNSC calls for 'immediate end' to attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels in Red Sea "These attacks have endangered US personnel, civilian mariners, and our partners, jeopardised trade, and threatened freedom of navigation," Biden said, emphasising that Washington and its allies "will not tolerate attacks on our personnel or allow hostile actors to imperil freedom of navigation." "I will not hesitate to direct further measures to protect our people and the free flow of international commerce as necessary,” asserted the US president. Biden further said that the Houthi rebels on January 9 had "launched their largest attack to date - directly targeting American ships." Sunak says attacks on Houthis 'necessary and proportionate' In a statement, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that the strikes carried out on Houthi rebels in Yemen were "necessary and proportionate". "Despite the repeated warnings from the international community, the Houthis have continued to carry out attacks in the Red Sea. We have therefore taken limited, necessary and proportionate action in self-defence, alongside the United States... to degrade Houthi military capabilities and protect global shipping,” Sunak said. US defence secretary warns Houthis to back down Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin on Thursday said that the strikes were carried out to reduce the Houthi rebels' ability to target international shipping. "Today's strikes targeted sites associated with the Houthis' unmanned aerial vehicle, ballistic and cruise missile, and coastal radar and air surveillance capabilities," said Austin, in a statement. Watch: Red Sea conflict: UN Security Council demands Houthis to stop Red Sea shipping attacks "This action is intended to disrupt and degrade the Huthis' capabilities to endanger mariners and threaten global trade in one of the world's most critical waterways. Today’s coalition action sends a clear message to the Huthis that they will bear further costs if they do not end their illegal attacks," Austin said. Aim to 'restore stability in the Red Sea': US and allies After launching strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen, the United States and its allies said that stabilising crucial Red Sea shipping lanes is their main goal. "Our aim remains to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea, but let our message be clear: we will not hesitate to defend lives and protect the free flow of commerce in one of the world's most critical waterways in the face of continued threats," said a joint statement, released by the governments of Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Korea, United Kingdom and the United States. The Houthis have launched various attacks on some major international sea routes since the Israel-Hamas war erupted with the unprecedented attack by the Palestinian militant group on Tel Aviv on October 7. Australia extended support to US and UK airstrikes on Houthis Australia also supported the US and UK militaries when dozens of airstrikes were launched against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said that the decision to launch the strikes “was not taken lightly”. “On 4 January Australia was part of [a group of] 14 countries which issued a statement warning the Houthi rebels that if they continue to attack maritime activity in the Red Sea, there would be consequences,” Defence Minister Marles said. “They have continued their attacks on maritime and naval assets. As a result, the attacks today have occurred,” he added. Houthi-led Yemen's minister says US, UK will have to pay heavy price for attack Deputy foreign minister of Houthi-led Yemen Hussein al-Ezzi said that the United States and the United Kingdom will have to pay a heavy price for the aggressive attack on Houthi rebels, as quoted by CNN. "Our country was subjected to a massive aggressive attack by American and British ships, submarines, and warplanes, and America and Britain will undoubtedly have to prepare to pay a heavy price and bear all the dire consequences of this blatant aggression," said al-Ezzi. Russia appeals for UNSC meeting after strike by US, Britain on Yemen Russia appealed for the United Nations Security Council's urgent meeting on Friday (Jan 12) to discuss military strikes carried out by the United States and Britain on Yemen. "Russia has requested an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council on January 12 in connection with the U.S. and UK strikes on Yemen," Russia's permanent mission to the United Nations said. (With inputs from agencies)

US and UK launch massive strikes against Houthi rebels, 5 killed

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dropped out of the Republican presidential nomination race for the 2024 US elections, with a parting shot at frontrunner and former president Donald Trump. 
 
"I am going to make sure that in no way do I enable Donald Trump to ever be president of the United States again," said the Trump ally-turned-critic. 
 
"It's clear to me tonight that there isn't a path for me to win the nomination, which is why I'm suspending my campaign tonight for president of the United States," said Christie, while speaking to the supporters at an event held in Windham, New Hampshire.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-arrives-in-court-asking-for-immunity-against-election-interference-charges-678338">Trump warns of 'bedlam' in US if court cases against him go ahead</a>

The Republican candidate was facing pressure to step aside and allow the party to unify around a viable challenger to Trump. Christie bowed out of the race without endorsing anyone.

<h2 lang="en-US">Christie takes a dig at Haley on a hot mic</h2>

However, on a hot mic, minutes before announcing that he was stepping away from the race, Christie predicted that former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who is gaining on Trump in a few polls, was "going to get smoked, and you and I both know it". 
 
"She's not up to this," Christie added. He further said that even Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was "petrified". At a town hall event held in New Hampshire, United States on Wednesday afternoon (Jan 10), the 61-year-old said that he is suspending his election campaign. 
 
In his remarks, he called on the Republican voters to not support the former president who he said has been accused of "putting himself before the people of this country". 
 
"Donald Trump wants you to be angry every day because he is angry," DeSantis added. 
 
Christie's departure from the presidential elections comes five days before the Iowa caucuses, which will be the first of the state-by-state contests in which the preferred candidate for president's position will be chosen by Republican voters. 
 
In July, the winner of the contests will be anointed the Republican nominee, before he goes on to challenge the Democratic nominee, which is most likely going to be Joe Biden - in the general election to be held in November.

Watch:&nbsp;US Elections 2024: DeSantis &amp; Haley seek to be alternative to Donald Trump

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-2024-desantis-haley-seek-to-be-alternative-to-donald-trump-677392/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Christie was facing pressure to drop out ahead of the second election in New Hampshire, where Haley is now running for second position in some polls, just behind Trump. The northeastern state has a major faction of unaffiliated voters and is known to deliver unpredictable results. 
 
Haley, in a statement, called Christie "a friend for many years" and commended him "on a hard-fought campaign". However, her opponents were quick to chime in on social media. 
 
Commenting on Christie's dig, DeSantis said he agreed Haley is "going to get smoked". Trump said he "might even get to like (Christie) again" following his "very truthful statement" about Haley.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dropped out of the Republican presidential nomination race for the 2024 US elections, with a parting shot at frontrunner and former president Donald Trump.

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dropped out of the Republican presidential nomination race for the 2024 US elections, with a parting shot at frontrunner and former president Donald Trump. "I am going to make sure that in no way do I enable Donald Trump to ever be president of the United States again," said the Trump ally-turned-critic. "It's clear to me tonight that there isn't a path for me to win the nomination, which is why I'm suspending my campaign tonight for president of the United States," said Christie, while speaking to the supporters at an event held in Windham, New Hampshire. Also read: Trump warns of 'bedlam' in US if court cases against him go ahead The Republican candidate was facing pressure to step aside and allow the party to unify around a viable challenger to Trump. Christie bowed out of the race without endorsing anyone. Christie takes a dig at Haley on a hot mic However, on a hot mic, minutes before announcing that he was stepping away from the race, Christie predicted that former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who is gaining on Trump in a few polls, was "going to get smoked, and you and I both know it". "She's not up to this," Christie added. He further said that even Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was "petrified". At a town hall event held in New Hampshire, United States on Wednesday afternoon (Jan 10), the 61-year-old said that he is suspending his election campaign. In his remarks, he called on the Republican voters to not support the former president who he said has been accused of "putting himself before the people of this country". "Donald Trump wants you to be angry every day because he is angry," DeSantis added. Christie's departure from the presidential elections comes five days before the Iowa caucuses, which will be the first of the state-by-state contests in which the preferred candidate for president's position will be chosen by Republican voters. In July, the winner of the contests will be anointed the Republican nominee, before he goes on to challenge the Democratic nominee, which is most likely going to be Joe Biden - in the general election to be held in November. Watch: US Elections 2024: DeSantis & Haley seek to be alternative to Donald Trump Christie was facing pressure to drop out ahead of the second election in New Hampshire, where Haley is now running for second position in some polls, just behind Trump. The northeastern state has a major faction of unaffiliated voters and is known to deliver unpredictable results. Haley, in a statement, called Christie "a friend for many years" and commended him "on a hard-fought campaign". However, her opponents were quick to chime in on social media. Commenting on Christie's dig, DeSantis said he agreed Haley is "going to get smoked". Trump said he "might even get to like (Christie) again" following his "very truthful statement" about Haley. (With inputs from agencies)

US elections: Trump critic Chris Christie drops out of 2024 presidential race

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