Iran’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) have launched missile attacks on multiple “terrorist” targets in Syria and in Iraq’s Kurdistan region. The security council of the Kurdish regional government said in a statement that four civilians were killed and six injured in the strikes.

Iran launches missile against Syria & Iraq; 2 US navy sailors go missing at sea

The principal of a high school in the US state of Iowa who was injured after risking his life to try and save students during a mass shooting has died. The mass shooting which took place earlier this month at a school near Des Moines had previously claimed the lives of two students, including the alleged shooter, and left several others injured.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Selfless and heroic’</h2>

Principal Dan Marburger of Perry High School was injured after sustaining multiple gunshots during a mass shooting on January 4, &nbsp;when a 17-year-old student reportedly opened fire killing an 11-year-old student and leaving six others wounded.&nbsp;

The 11-year-old identified as Ahmir Joliff, a sixth-grader, was shot three times, said the officials. Meanwhile, the 17-year-old alleged shooter was found dead with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sixth-grader-killed-in-iowa-school-shooting-identified-injured-principal-in-critical-condition-677048">Sixth grader killed in Iowa school shooting identified, injured principal in critical condition</a>

“Our entire state is devastated by the news of Dan Marburger’s death,” Kim Reynolds, the governor of Iowa said in a statement. She added that he would “forever be remembered for his selfless and heroic actions”.&nbsp;

“Dan courageously put himself in harm’s way to protect his students and ultimately gave his own life to save them. He will forever be remembered for his selfless and heroic actions. May he rest in peace,” said Reynolds.&nbsp;

The state governor also ordered flags across the state to fly at half-mast until sunset on the day of Marburger’s funeral.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Iowa school shooting: Suspect found dead with apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound

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Marburger, who had been the head of Perry High School since 1995, tried to distract the gunman before being shot, giving students a chance to flee, said his daughter.&nbsp;

He succumbed to his injuries at 8:00 am (local time), his family said in a statement posted to his GoFundMe page. It added, “After 10 days, he lost his battle and this tragedy took his life.”

The state’s Department of Public Safety said that the head of the school had “acted selflessly and placed himself in harm’s way in an apparent effort to protect his students”. &nbsp;

<h2>Iowa school shooting</h2>

The shooting at Perry High School began at 7:30 am (local time) on January 4 in the school cafeteria where students were having breakfast, according to US officials.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-dylan-butler-iowa-school-shooter-with-im-your-nightmare-coming-true-sentiment-676716">Who is Dylan Butler? Iowa school shooter with 'I’m your nightmare coming true' sentiment</a>

Subsequently, Marburger intervened and tried to “talk down” the suspect, identified as Dylan Butler, a 17-year-old student.&nbsp;

Erica Jolliff, Ahmir’s mother, told the Associated Press that her son was known as “Smiley” at home. “He was so well-loved and he loved everyone,” Jolliff said of her son.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The principal of a high school in the US state of Iowa who was injured after risking his life to try and save students during a mass shooting has died. The mass shooting which took place earlier this month at a school near Des Moines had previously claimed the lives of two students, including the alleged shooter, and left several others injured.

The principal of a high school in the US state of Iowa who was injured after risking his life to try and save students during a mass shooting has died. The mass shooting which took place earlier this month at a school near Des Moines had previously claimed the lives of two students, including the alleged shooter, and left several others injured. ‘Selfless and heroic’ Principal Dan Marburger of Perry High School was injured after sustaining multiple gunshots during a mass shooting on January 4, when a 17-year-old student reportedly opened fire killing an 11-year-old student and leaving six others wounded. The 11-year-old identified as Ahmir Joliff, a sixth-grader, was shot three times, said the officials. Meanwhile, the 17-year-old alleged shooter was found dead with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. ALSO READ | Sixth grader killed in Iowa school shooting identified, injured principal in critical condition “Our entire state is devastated by the news of Dan Marburger’s death,” Kim Reynolds, the governor of Iowa said in a statement. She added that he would “forever be remembered for his selfless and heroic actions”. “Dan courageously put himself in harm’s way to protect his students and ultimately gave his own life to save them. He will forever be remembered for his selfless and heroic actions. May he rest in peace,” said Reynolds. The state governor also ordered flags across the state to fly at half-mast until sunset on the day of Marburger’s funeral. WATCH | Iowa school shooting: Suspect found dead with apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound Marburger, who had been the head of Perry High School since 1995, tried to distract the gunman before being shot, giving students a chance to flee, said his daughter. He succumbed to his injuries at 8:00 am (local time), his family said in a statement posted to his GoFundMe page. It added, “After 10 days, he lost his battle and this tragedy took his life.” The state’s Department of Public Safety said that the head of the school had “acted selflessly and placed himself in harm’s way in an apparent effort to protect his students”. Iowa school shooting The shooting at Perry High School began at 7:30 am (local time) on January 4 in the school cafeteria where students were having breakfast, according to US officials. ALSO READ | Who is Dylan Butler? Iowa school shooter with 'I’m your nightmare coming true' sentiment Subsequently, Marburger intervened and tried to “talk down” the suspect, identified as Dylan Butler, a 17-year-old student. Erica Jolliff, Ahmir’s mother, told the Associated Press that her son was known as “Smiley” at home. “He was so well-loved and he loved everyone,” Jolliff said of her son. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Iowa principal Dan Marburger who saved students from school shooting dies

The second-largest foreign landowner in the U.S. is a Chinese billionaire who it has been determined is a member of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), according to news reports.

Second-largest foreign owner of land in US is a Chinese Communist Party member

As global leaders gather in Davos for the World Economic Forum's annual meeting, a recent survey by Edelman underscores widespread public distrust in the management and regulation of new technologies by businesses and governments. <o:p></o:p>

Released under the theme "Rebuilding Trust," the survey reveals that 39 per cent of respondents lack confidence in how innovations are introduced and regulated, with only 22 per cent expressing satisfaction. <o:p></o:p>

Notably, the United States emerges as a hotspot of scepticism, with 56 per cent of respondents believing that innovation is poorly managed, reflecting a notable divide.<o:p></o:p>

Despite the pervasive mistrust, the survey points to a paradox where businesses are regarded as the most trusted entities to integrate innovation into society, surpassing non-governmental organisations, government bodies, and the media. <o:p></o:p>

The survey, conducted in 28 countries with 32,000 participants, suggests that while the public is wary of how innovations are managed, there remains a level of trust in businesses to responsibly incorporate technological advancements.<o:p></o:p>

The report highlights instances of pushback against technology, citing Beijing's reversal of COVID vaccine mandates in response to online resistance, US Republican opposition to electric vehicles, and Hollywood writers' resistance to the use of artificial intelligence in scriptwriting. <o:p></o:p>

It suggests that resistance to innovation is often politically charged, with higher levels of opposition observed among right-leaning individuals, particularly in the United States, Australia, Germany, and Canada. <o:p></o:p>

Edelman's CEO, Richard Edelman, emphasises the need for businesses to pay attention to public acceptance as much as research and development. <o:p></o:p>

Acknowledging that innovation should be a growth enabler, he underscores that its potential might be hindered if businesses neglect the importance of gaining public trust. <o:p></o:p>

The findings serve as a call for a more holistic approach, emphasising not only technological advancements but also the communication and societal integration of these innovations. <o:p></o:p>

In addition to the global perspective, the Trust Barometer in the survey points out that Britain finds itself at the bottom of the trust scale, scoring 39 per cent. <o:p></o:p>

This metric, which provides an average percent trust in NGOs, business, government, and media, indicates a notable lack of trust in various institutions in the United Kingdom.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

As global leaders gather in Davos for the World Economic Forum's annual meeting, a recent survey by Edelman underscores widespread public distrust in the management and regulation of new technologies by businesses and governments.

As global leaders gather in Davos for the World Economic Forum's annual meeting, a recent survey by Edelman underscores widespread public distrust in the management and regulation of new technologies by businesses and governments. Released under the theme "Rebuilding Trust," the survey reveals that 39 per cent of respondents lack confidence in how innovations are introduced and regulated, with only 22 per cent expressing satisfaction. Notably, the United States emerges as a hotspot of scepticism, with 56 per cent of respondents believing that innovation is poorly managed, reflecting a notable divide. Despite the pervasive mistrust, the survey points to a paradox where businesses are regarded as the most trusted entities to integrate innovation into society, surpassing non-governmental organisations, government bodies, and the media. The survey, conducted in 28 countries with 32,000 participants, suggests that while the public is wary of how innovations are managed, there remains a level of trust in businesses to responsibly incorporate technological advancements. The report highlights instances of pushback against technology, citing Beijing's reversal of COVID vaccine mandates in response to online resistance, US Republican opposition to electric vehicles, and Hollywood writers' resistance to the use of artificial intelligence in scriptwriting. It suggests that resistance to innovation is often politically charged, with higher levels of opposition observed among right-leaning individuals, particularly in the United States, Australia, Germany, and Canada. Edelman's CEO, Richard Edelman, emphasises the need for businesses to pay attention to public acceptance as much as research and development. Acknowledging that innovation should be a growth enabler, he underscores that its potential might be hindered if businesses neglect the importance of gaining public trust. The findings serve as a call for a more holistic approach, emphasising not only technological advancements but also the communication and societal integration of these innovations. In addition to the global perspective, the Trust Barometer in the survey points out that Britain finds itself at the bottom of the trust scale, scoring 39 per cent. This metric, which provides an average percent trust in NGOs, business, government, and media, indicates a notable lack of trust in various institutions in the United Kingdom. (With inputs from Reuters)

US leads global public distrust in innovation, survey unveils concerns ahead of Davos Summit

Donald Trump is the overwhelming favorite to push past his rivals and stake an early claim to the Republican presidential nomination on Monday when Iowans brave bone-chilling temperatures to cast the first votes in the 2024 campaign.

US: Donald Trump seeks early victory as Iowa caucus kicks off Republican race

On Monday, when the Midwestern state kicks off the 2024 White House nomination race with its caucuses, farmers from Iowa have decided to choose Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over frontrunner and former president Donald Trump. Watch this report for more details.

Iowa Presidential nominee selection: Voters venture into sub-zero temperatures | World News | WION

Concerns about a global return of inflationary pressures are being heightened by rising transportation costs and an increase in the oil price. Shops and manufacturers are once more dealing with delays and rising costs as Houthi rebel strikes in the red sea continue to disrupt a vital shipping route via the suez canal.

Shipping costs soar & oil prices jump on Red Sea attaks

Primaries and caucuses are two ways that people help states and political parties choose presidential nominees. A Report on how they work and the differences between the processes.

Power explainer: How are caucuses different from primaries

Donald Trump is the overwhelming favorite to push past his rivals and stake an early claim to the Republican presidential nomination when Iowans brave bone-chilling temperatures on Monday to cast the first votes in the 2024 campaign. The former president's dominant position has turned Iowa's first-in-the-nation contest into a race for second place, as both Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley are aiming for a clear runner-up finish to emerge as the chief alternative to Trump.

Republicans hold Iowa caucuses | Trump leads in opinion polls

A US delegation, including two former senior US officials, has arrived in Taiwan for post-election talks. This, along with reinforcing the US goernment's time-honoured interest in maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait. Their arrival comes a day after Lai Ching-Te, from Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party or DPP won the presidential elections on Saturday.

US delegation in Taiwan for post-poll talks, to meet President Tsai Ing-Wen & top other officials

Race to the White House 2024: Iowa caucus Republican's first political contest of 2024

Iowa Republicans are caucusing Monday to decide their state’s GOP presidential nominee, officially kick-starting the 2024 election.

Iowa Caucus 2024:  Litmus test for GOP candidates

Race to White House 2024: Iowa caucus crucial in Presidential race, voters to choose party's nominee

Japan lauds Lai Ching Te's victory in Taiwan, China warns Japan to not meddle with internal matters

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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&nbsp;

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

The 'Narendra Modi Gallery' at the Prime Ministers' Museum and Library Society (PMML) or 'Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya' in Delhi will open to visitors on January 16.

Narendra Modi gallery at PMs' museum to open on January 16

The dangerous Arctic blast which is sweeping through most parts of the United States and bringing record-low temperatures is expected to continue&nbsp;on Monday (Jan 15) and linger through at least midweek, reported the Associated Press. The deep freeze has covered large parts of the US with freezing temperatures reaching as far as the southern state of Florida.&nbsp;

<h2>At least four killed amid sub-zero temperatures</h2>

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the cold winds are expected to push temperatures 30 degrees below zero from the Northern Rockies to the northern US state of Kansas and into Iowa.&nbsp;

So far, at least four people have been killed due to record-low temperatures, which have also left tens of thousands of houses in the Northwest. Around 100 trees toppled over the weekend in an area near Portland, Oregon, one of which fell on a house and killed a man.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;US: Extreme weather and swathes of snow freezes Iowa Caucus campaigning

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Two others, according to the AP, died of suspected hypothermia. A fourth person reportedly died of a fire that spread from an open-flame stove after a tree fell onto an RV.&nbsp;

The temperatures plunged 50 degrees below zero in the US states of Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.&nbsp;

According to the NWS, an estimated 95 million people were under weather warnings or advisories for wind chills of -17 degrees Celsius. On Sunday (Jan 14), over 700 flights travelling within, or in or out of the US were cancelled, reported FlightAware.&nbsp;

Arkansas governor, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, declared a state of emergency ahead of the severe weather. This comes as snow, sleet and freezing rain are expected across several states, including Arkansas, Texas, and Louisiana.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/change-in-strategy-and-unperturbed-voters-how-trump-has-pulled-ahead-in-iowa-caucuses-680051">Change in strategy and unperturbed voters: How Trump has pulled ahead in Iowa caucuses</a>

In the US state of Oregon, more than 120,000 homes and businesses were without electricity with most of them in Portland, reported AP. This was after the state witnessed a day of high winds and a mix of snow and ice which brought down trees and power lines.

<h2>Iowa caucus and&nbsp;NFL play-offs disrupted</h2>

Voters are set to venture into sub-zero temperatures to kick off the US Republican presidential nomination race with the Iowa caucuses. After several rounds of debates, Iowans will cast the first votes in the 2024 presidential nomination process, on Monday (Jan 15).

The voting process is set to be marked by blizzards and a potential wind chill in some areas of the state is expected to plunge to -38 degrees Celsius or colder.&nbsp;

According to the Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom poll released on Saturday night, former US president Donald Trump was leading in the state with 48 per cent votes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-it-shot-down-anti-ship-cruise-missile-from-houthi-area-of-yemen-targeting-uss-laboon-679991">US claims it shot down anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi area of Yemen targeting USS Laboon</a>

On Saturday night (Jan 13), the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins played the fourth-coldest game in NFL history.&nbsp;

Photos and videos from the game have since gone viral with frozen beers, Chiefs’ player Travis Kelce’s head steaming during the game and a clip showing a bottle of water turning to ice when it was taken out of the fridge.&nbsp;

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Time to ball. <a href="https://t.co/bTtCpJQgET">pic.twitter.com/bTtCpJQgET</a>
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1746332448462356709?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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A little chilly at Arrowhead tonight <a href="https://t.co/FMw7DLBXqF">pic.twitter.com/FMw7DLBXqF</a>
— Mr. Brendan Marquart (@FloNoFro) <a href="https://twitter.com/FloNoFro/status/1746316152203084201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The wild-card playoff game was marked by a temperature of -20 degrees Celsius and wind gusts up to 27 mph, shattering the record for the coldest game in Arrowhead Stadium history.&nbsp;

The blizzard conditions have also led to the postponement of the game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Buffalo Bills NFL playoff game hosted in bone-chilling Buffalo, New York.

(With inputs from agencies)

The dangerous Arctic blast which is sweeping through most parts of the United States and bringing record-low temperatures is expected to continue on Monday (Jan 15) and linger through at least midweek, reported the Associated Press.

The dangerous Arctic blast which is sweeping through most parts of the United States and bringing record-low temperatures is expected to continue on Monday (Jan 15) and linger through at least midweek, reported the Associated Press. The deep freeze has covered large parts of the US with freezing temperatures reaching as far as the southern state of Florida. At least four killed amid sub-zero temperatures According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the cold winds are expected to push temperatures 30 degrees below zero from the Northern Rockies to the northern US state of Kansas and into Iowa. So far, at least four people have been killed due to record-low temperatures, which have also left tens of thousands of houses in the Northwest. Around 100 trees toppled over the weekend in an area near Portland, Oregon, one of which fell on a house and killed a man. WATCH | US: Extreme weather and swathes of snow freezes Iowa Caucus campaigning Two others, according to the AP, died of suspected hypothermia. A fourth person reportedly died of a fire that spread from an open-flame stove after a tree fell onto an RV. The temperatures plunged 50 degrees below zero in the US states of Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota. According to the NWS, an estimated 95 million people were under weather warnings or advisories for wind chills of -17 degrees Celsius. On Sunday (Jan 14), over 700 flights travelling within, or in or out of the US were cancelled, reported FlightAware. Arkansas governor, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, declared a state of emergency ahead of the severe weather. This comes as snow, sleet and freezing rain are expected across several states, including Arkansas, Texas, and Louisiana. ALSO READ | Change in strategy and unperturbed voters: How Trump has pulled ahead in Iowa caucuses In the US state of Oregon, more than 120,000 homes and businesses were without electricity with most of them in Portland, reported AP. This was after the state witnessed a day of high winds and a mix of snow and ice which brought down trees and power lines. Iowa caucus and NFL play-offs disrupted Voters are set to venture into sub-zero temperatures to kick off the US Republican presidential nomination race with the Iowa caucuses. After several rounds of debates, Iowans will cast the first votes in the 2024 presidential nomination process, on Monday (Jan 15). The voting process is set to be marked by blizzards and a potential wind chill in some areas of the state is expected to plunge to -38 degrees Celsius or colder. According to the Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom poll released on Saturday night, former US president Donald Trump was leading in the state with 48 per cent votes. ALSO READ | US claims it shot down anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi area of Yemen targeting USS Laboon On Saturday night (Jan 13), the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins played the fourth-coldest game in NFL history. Photos and videos from the game have since gone viral with frozen beers, Chiefs’ player Travis Kelce’s head steaming during the game and a clip showing a bottle of water turning to ice when it was taken out of the fridge. Time to ball. pic.twitter.com/bTtCpJQgET — Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) January 14, 2024 × A little chilly at Arrowhead tonight pic.twitter.com/FMw7DLBXqF — Mr. Brendan Marquart (@FloNoFro) January 13, 2024 × The wild-card playoff game was marked by a temperature of -20 degrees Celsius and wind gusts up to 27 mph, shattering the record for the coldest game in Arrowhead Stadium history. The blizzard conditions have also led to the postponement of the game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Buffalo Bills NFL playoff game hosted in bone-chilling Buffalo, New York. (With inputs from agencies)

US winter storm: Millions face below-zero temperatures amid dangerous Arctic freeze

A US judge has denied a request for defence materials by Indian national Nikhil Gupta, charged by federal prosecutors in a murder-for-hire plot to kill a Khalistani separatist on American soil.

United States District Judge Victor Marrero, in an order Thursday, denied a motion filed by Gupta’s attorney seeking discovery material in the case.

Gupta, 52, was charged by federal prosecutors here in an indictment unsealed in November last year with working with an Indian government employee in the foiled plot to kill Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who holds dual US and Canadian citizenships, on American soil.

WATCH |&nbsp;Nikhil Gupta accused of allegedly plotting Khalistani terrorist killing | WION Newspoint

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Gupta was arrested in Prague, the Czech Republic on June 30, 2023 and is being held there currently. The US government is seeking his extradition to America.

In his order, Marrero said that the Court is persuaded by the government’s argument that Gupta has no right to discovery at this time.

He cited Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 16.1, which provides that no later than 14 days after the arraignment, “the attorney for the government and the defendant’s attorney must confer and try to agree on a timetable and procedures for pretrial disclosure under Rule 16.” Marrero said in his order that Gupta has failed to identify any authority suggesting that a defendant has a right to discovery before arraignment.

“Gupta has not yet been arraigned in this case, and the government is currently seeking Gupta’s extradition from the Czech Republic to the United States,” Marrero said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plot-to-kill-pannun-us-court-orders-govt-to-produce-proof-against-accused-indian-nikhil-gupta-678843">Pannun murder plot: US govt refuses to produce proof against Indian national despite court ruling</a>

He added that the government has assured the Court that it is “prepared to produce discovery promptly upon the defendant’s appearance in this District and arraignment on this case.” “Accordingly, Gupta’s motion is denied,” Marrero’s order said.

Gupta’s counsel in New York Jeff Chabrowe had filed a ‘Motion to Compel Production of Discovery’ on January 4 in the US District Court, Southern District of New York requesting the Court to direct federal prosecutors to provide “the defence materials relevant to its ability to defend the instant charges.” In its response, the US government objected to providing the defence materials and said it would provide the information only upon Gupta’s appearance in a New York court and his arraignment in the case.

“The government respectfully submits this letter in opposition to defendant Nikhil Gupta’s motion to compel discovery during the pendency of his extradition proceedings in the Czech Republic,” federal prosecutors had said in their response filed Wednesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-rejects-petition-by-indian-national-nikhil-gupta-accused-by-us-in-pannun-murder-plot-676431">Indian Supreme Court rejects plea by Nikhil Gupta, accused by US in Pannun murder plot</a>

They said that consistent with federal rules of criminal procedure, “the government is prepared to produce discovery promptly upon the defendant’s appearance in this District and arraignment on this case. Before then, however, the defendant is not entitled to discovery, and he identifies no good reason for the Court to order it.”

In the government’s response, US Attorney Damian Williams said that Gupta has identified no legal entitlement or justification for discovery at this time. “The government stands ready to provide discovery to him, like any other criminal defendant, promptly upon his appearance and arraignment in this District. His motion to compel discovery should be denied,” Williams had said.

A US judge has denied a request for defence materials by Indian national Nikhil Gupta, charged by federal prosecutors in a murder-for-hire plot to kill a Khalistani separatist on American soil.

A US judge has denied a request for defence materials by Indian national Nikhil Gupta, charged by federal prosecutors in a murder-for-hire plot to kill a Khalistani separatist on American soil. United States District Judge Victor Marrero, in an order Thursday, denied a motion filed by Gupta’s attorney seeking discovery material in the case. Gupta, 52, was charged by federal prosecutors here in an indictment unsealed in November last year with working with an Indian government employee in the foiled plot to kill Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who holds dual US and Canadian citizenships, on American soil. WATCH | Nikhil Gupta accused of allegedly plotting Khalistani terrorist killing | WION Newspoint Gupta was arrested in Prague, the Czech Republic on June 30, 2023 and is being held there currently. The US government is seeking his extradition to America. In his order, Marrero said that the Court is persuaded by the government’s argument that Gupta has no right to discovery at this time. He cited Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 16.1, which provides that no later than 14 days after the arraignment, “the attorney for the government and the defendant’s attorney must confer and try to agree on a timetable and procedures for pretrial disclosure under Rule 16.” Marrero said in his order that Gupta has failed to identify any authority suggesting that a defendant has a right to discovery before arraignment. “Gupta has not yet been arraigned in this case, and the government is currently seeking Gupta’s extradition from the Czech Republic to the United States,” Marrero said. ALSO READ | Pannun murder plot: US govt refuses to produce proof against Indian national despite court ruling He added that the government has assured the Court that it is “prepared to produce discovery promptly upon the defendant’s appearance in this District and arraignment on this case.” “Accordingly, Gupta’s motion is denied,” Marrero’s order said. Gupta’s counsel in New York Jeff Chabrowe had filed a ‘Motion to Compel Production of Discovery’ on January 4 in the US District Court, Southern District of New York requesting the Court to direct federal prosecutors to provide “the defence materials relevant to its ability to defend the instant charges.” In its response, the US government objected to providing the defence materials and said it would provide the information only upon Gupta’s appearance in a New York court and his arraignment in the case. “The government respectfully submits this letter in opposition to defendant Nikhil Gupta’s motion to compel discovery during the pendency of his extradition proceedings in the Czech Republic,” federal prosecutors had said in their response filed Wednesday. ALSO READ | Indian Supreme Court rejects plea by Nikhil Gupta, accused by US in Pannun murder plot They said that consistent with federal rules of criminal procedure, “the government is prepared to produce discovery promptly upon the defendant’s appearance in this District and arraignment on this case. Before then, however, the defendant is not entitled to discovery, and he identifies no good reason for the Court to order it.” In the government’s response, US Attorney Damian Williams said that Gupta has identified no legal entitlement or justification for discovery at this time. “The government stands ready to provide discovery to him, like any other criminal defendant, promptly upon his appearance and arraignment in this District. His motion to compel discovery should be denied,” Williams had said.

Pannun murder plot: Nikhil Gupta’s request for defence materials rejected by US judge

As tensions continue to flare up in the Red Sea, the US and UK have launched their very first strikes against Houthi-linked targets across Yemen. The Houthis now claim that five people have been killed and six wounded in the attack.

Red Sea tensions continue to simmer | US war aircraft shoots down Houthi missile | WION

Taiwan's ruling party candidate Lai Ching-te on Saturday, January 13, won the island's presidential election, a vote watched closely from Beijing to Washington. Lai vowed to defend the self-ruled island from Chinese "intimidation".

US delegation in Taiwan for post-poll talks | US congratulates new Taiwanese President

China claims 'Taiwan is China's Taiwan' | Taiwan loses first ally post-election

E-commerce giant eBay has reached a settlement, agreeing to pay a $3 million criminal penalty in connection with a disturbing harassment and stalking case against a Massachusetts couple, reported CBS News.

The company faced criminal charges, including stalking, witness tampering, and obstruction of justice. The Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed the details of eBay's egregious conduct and the ensuing legal actions.

The victims, Ina and David Steiner, endured threats and unsettling deliveries, including cockroaches, live spiders, a funeral wreath, and a bloody pig mask, in August 2019.

eBay's former Senior Director of Safety and Security, Jim Baugh, and six other members of eBay's security team were implicated in targeting the couple due to their involvement in publishing a newsletter critical of eBay's practices.

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<h2>Motivation behind the campaign</h2>

Executives at eBay were discontent with the newsletter's tone and content.

Between August 5, 2019, and August 23, 2019, eBay's security team, including Baugh, orchestrated a harassment campaign to intimidate the Steiners and influence the newsletter's reporting.

The DOJ highlighted the disturbing tactics employed, ranging from sending ominous deliveries to the victims' homes to surveilling them, making threats, and even creating Craigslist posts inviting sexual encounters at their residence.

eBay admitted to the orchestrated campaign and terminated all employees involved after an internal investigation.

The company, through an independent special committee, apologised to the victims and emphasised its commitment to high standards of conduct. eBay cooperated with law enforcement authorities throughout the investigation.

Also watch |&nbsp;US doesn't support Taiwan's independence after island elects anti-China govt says Joe Biden

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Seven eBay employees, including Jim Baugh, were convicted for their roles in the harassment campaign. Baugh received a 57-month prison sentence in September 2022.

As part of the settlement, eBay agreed to a $3 million criminal penalty. The DOJ's statement highlighted that this settlement holds eBay accountable for the distress inflicted on the victims and establishes checks and balances for a corporate culture overhaul.

(With inputs from agencies)

E-commerce giant eBay has reached a settlement, agreeing to pay a $3 million criminal penalty in connection with a disturbing harassment and stalking case against a Massachusetts couple, reported CBS News.

E-commerce giant eBay has reached a settlement, agreeing to pay a $3 million criminal penalty in connection with a disturbing harassment and stalking case against a Massachusetts couple, reported CBS News. The company faced criminal charges, including stalking, witness tampering, and obstruction of justice. The Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed the details of eBay's egregious conduct and the ensuing legal actions. The victims, Ina and David Steiner, endured threats and unsettling deliveries, including cockroaches, live spiders, a funeral wreath, and a bloody pig mask, in August 2019. eBay's former Senior Director of Safety and Security, Jim Baugh, and six other members of eBay's security team were implicated in targeting the couple due to their involvement in publishing a newsletter critical of eBay's practices. Also read | Thousands to lose jobs as US banking giant Citigroup announces job cuts Motivation behind the campaign Executives at eBay were discontent with the newsletter's tone and content. Between August 5, 2019, and August 23, 2019, eBay's security team, including Baugh, orchestrated a harassment campaign to intimidate the Steiners and influence the newsletter's reporting. The DOJ highlighted the disturbing tactics employed, ranging from sending ominous deliveries to the victims' homes to surveilling them, making threats, and even creating Craigslist posts inviting sexual encounters at their residence. eBay admitted to the orchestrated campaign and terminated all employees involved after an internal investigation. The company, through an independent special committee, apologised to the victims and emphasised its commitment to high standards of conduct. eBay cooperated with law enforcement authorities throughout the investigation. Also watch | US doesn't support Taiwan's independence after island elects anti-China govt says Joe Biden Seven eBay employees, including Jim Baugh, were convicted for their roles in the harassment campaign. Baugh received a 57-month prison sentence in September 2022. As part of the settlement, eBay agreed to a $3 million criminal penalty. The DOJ's statement highlighted that this settlement holds eBay accountable for the distress inflicted on the victims and establishes checks and balances for a corporate culture overhaul. (With inputs from agencies)

eBay agrees to $3mn settlement following harassment, stalking campaign against US couple

US: Farmers in Iowa have dumped Donald Trump for Ron DeSantis

Plunging temperatures, whipping wind and buckets of snow froze out the final stretch of campaigning in the US state of Iowa Saturday, with overwhelming favorite Donald Trump canceling in-person appearances just two days before voters make their preferences known.

US: Extreme weather and swathes of snow freezes Iowa Caucus campaigning

China urges the international community to adhere to the one-China principle.

China on cross-strait relations

President Joe Biden said the US did not support independence for Taiwan, after voters there defied China and returned the governing Democratic Progressive Party — which has sought to limit Beijing’s influence — to a third consecutive term.

US doesn't support Taiwan's independence after island elects anti-China govt says Joe Biden

In a bid to ensure peace across the&nbsp;Taiwan Strait, two former senior US&nbsp;officials are set to visit Taiwan on Sunday (Jan 14) as Lai Ching-te secured victory in the elections, defeating the main opposition candidate Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT), a party often labeled as pro-China.

Washington's de facto embassy in Taipei, the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) made this announcement. This institute takes care of the relationship between the US and Taiwan as the countries do not hold any formal diplomatic ties, given Beijing's 'One-China' policy.&nbsp;

China has always opposes US officials visiting Taiwan as it considers Taiwan to be a part of its territory and has claimed sovereignty over the island. On the other hand, Taiwan operates as a self-ruled entity with its own government and military.

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AIT confirmed that the unofficial visit will include former National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley and former Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg. Laura Rosenberger, AIT's US-based Chair, will also be joining the delegation set to visit the island nation.&nbsp;

"On Jan 15, they will meet with a range of leading political figures and convey congratulations from the American people to Taiwan on its successful elections, support for Taiwan's continued prosperity and growth, and our longstanding interest in cross-Strait peace and stability," stated AIT.

"As we have done previously following a Taiwan presidential election, the U.S. government has asked former senior officials to travel in their private capacity to Taiwan," it added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-ballistic-missile-towards-east-sea-says-seouls-military-679828">North Korea fires ballistic missile towards East Sea, says Seoul's military</a>

Reuters citing anonymous sources familiar with the trip said that such visits by former senior US officials following Taiwan's presidential elections are routine.

<h2>Taiwan elections&nbsp;</h2>

After securing&nbsp;victory in the presidential elections, Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's newly elected president, said, "I will act by our democratic and free constitutional order in a manner that is balanced and maintains the cross-strait status quo."

He also added a determination to safeguard Taiwan from threats and intimidation by China.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/decoding-the-hypocrisy-of-global-elite-at-davos-679813">Davos Summit: A catalyst for economic &amp; sustainable transformation</a>

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Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on Beijing to "face reality" of the election results and urged it to abandon efforts to suppress Taiwan for positive cross-strait interactions.

<h2>China's reaction</h2>

China's foreign ministry, reacting to Taiwan's election results, reiterated its long-standing position on the Taiwan issue, stating, "The Taiwan question is China’s internal affair. Whatever changes take place in Taiwan, the basic fact that there is only one China in the world and Taiwan is part of China will not change."

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden affirmed his country's&nbsp;stance, stating, "We do not support independence..."

Amid concerns from Beijing about a potential Republic of Taiwan declaration, Lai Ching-te has reiterated his commitment not to pursue such an action.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to ensure peace across the Taiwan Strait, two former senior US officials are set to visit Taiwan on Sunday (Jan 14) as Lai Ching-te secured victory in the elections, defeating the main opposition candidate Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT), a party often labeled as pro-China.

In a bid to ensure peace across the Taiwan Strait, two former senior US officials are set to visit Taiwan on Sunday (Jan 14) as Lai Ching-te secured victory in the elections, defeating the main opposition candidate Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT), a party often labeled as pro-China. Washington's de facto embassy in Taipei, the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) made this announcement. This institute takes care of the relationship between the US and Taiwan as the countries do not hold any formal diplomatic ties, given Beijing's 'One-China' policy. China has always opposes US officials visiting Taiwan as it considers Taiwan to be a part of its territory and has claimed sovereignty over the island. On the other hand, Taiwan operates as a self-ruled entity with its own government and military. Also Read | John Kerry to step down as US climate envoy to help Biden's reelection bid: Reports AIT confirmed that the unofficial visit will include former National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley and former Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg. Laura Rosenberger, AIT's US-based Chair, will also be joining the delegation set to visit the island nation. "On Jan 15, they will meet with a range of leading political figures and convey congratulations from the American people to Taiwan on its successful elections, support for Taiwan's continued prosperity and growth, and our longstanding interest in cross-Strait peace and stability," stated AIT. "As we have done previously following a Taiwan presidential election, the U.S. government has asked former senior officials to travel in their private capacity to Taiwan," it added. Also Read | North Korea fires ballistic missile towards East Sea, says Seoul's military Reuters citing anonymous sources familiar with the trip said that such visits by former senior US officials following Taiwan's presidential elections are routine. Taiwan elections After securing victory in the presidential elections, Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's newly elected president, said, "I will act by our democratic and free constitutional order in a manner that is balanced and maintains the cross-strait status quo." He also added a determination to safeguard Taiwan from threats and intimidation by China. Watch | Davos Summit: A catalyst for economic & sustainable transformation × Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on Beijing to "face reality" of the election results and urged it to abandon efforts to suppress Taiwan for positive cross-strait interactions. China's reaction China's foreign ministry, reacting to Taiwan's election results, reiterated its long-standing position on the Taiwan issue, stating, "The Taiwan question is China’s internal affair. Whatever changes take place in Taiwan, the basic fact that there is only one China in the world and Taiwan is part of China will not change." Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden affirmed his country's stance, stating, "We do not support independence..." Amid concerns from Beijing about a potential Republic of Taiwan declaration, Lai Ching-te has reiterated his commitment not to pursue such an action. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-US officials set to visit Taiwan, to back 'longstanding interest' in cross-strait peace

Fears of a regional war linger, with more countries now being involved in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. US has carried out additional strikes on Houthi-linked targets in Yemen. Earlier on Friday, US and British forces targeted nearly 30 sites with more than 150 munitions in Yemen in their first round of strikes. Houthis send warning following strikes.

Israel-Hamas war: Houthis promise 'strong & effective' response to US strikes

Plunging temperatures, whipping wind and buckets of snow froze out the final stretch of campaigning in the US state of Iowa Saturday. 2024 Poll contenders Nikki Haley & Ron DeSantis call off campaign. Flights with reporters & political observers cancelled, rerouted.

2024 US Presidential Poll campaign stalled by chilling weather | Iowa Caucus Campaign

Taiwan heads to the polls to choose its next leader in a high-stakes presidential election, polls opened at 8:00 AM local time at nearly 18,000 locations. President Tsai Ing-wen is ineligible to seek re-election after serving two straight terms. Taiwan has slammed China for allegedly intimidating its citizens and attempting to influence the island's elections on Saturday. Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu criticized China's "repeated interference" in the impending elections on Thursday, accusing Beijing of "once again blatantly intimidating the Taiwanese people and the international community".

Taiwan Elections 2024: Blinken asks China for Cross-Strait stability as Taiwan votes

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China on cross-strait relations