Israel will gradually transition to the next phase of operations in Gaza, the country's defence minister said on Monday following talks with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about lower intensity combat and ways to reduce harm to civilians.

Israel-hamas war: Israel signals gradual shift in Gaza war, after US defense chief visit

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said on Monday (Dec 18) that the United States will continue providing arms and ammunitions to Israel. Austin was speaking in a joint press conference with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv. Israeli forces have continued their operation in the Gaza Strip.

During the press conference, Austin also warned Iran that it must 'stop' supporting Yemen's Houthi rebels who have been attacking ships&nbsp;in the Red Sea which has already forced major ship operators and oil giants to stop using the waterways.

"We'll continue to provide Israel with the equipment that you need to defend your country... including critical munitions, tactical vehicles and air defence systems," the US defence secretary said.

"In the Red Sea, we're leading a multinational maritime task force to uphold the bedrock principle of freedom of navigation. Iran's support for Houthi attacks on commercial vessels must stop," Austin said.

Gravitas | Gaza war: Is Israel's Netanyahu opening a new front?

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The secretary of defence said that an international coalition was taking shape to address the situation in the Red Sea.

"This is an international problem, and it deserves an international response," Austin said.

"That's why I'm convening a meeting tomorrow, a ministerial meeting with fellow ministers in the region and beyond to address this threat," he said, adding it would be a virtual meeting.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-hacking-group-disrupts-70-of-irans-petrol-pumps-670865">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli hacking group disrupts 70% of Iran’s petrol pumps</a>

Houthi rebels said earlier on Monday that they had attacked two "Israeli-linked" vessels in the Red Sea.

<h2>Gaza death toll crosses 19,000</h2>

The Hamas-run health ministry in the Gaza Strip said on Monday that the death toll in the enclave has crossed 19,000. It now stands at 19,453, as per the health ministry.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-starvation-used-as-a-weapon-of-war-in-gaza-strip-says-hrw-670872">Israel-Hamas war: Starvation used as a weapon of war in Gaza Strip, says HRW</a>

Hamas fighters launched an attack in southern Israel on October 7 killing at least 1200 people and taking more than 200 people hostage. Within a few days, Israel responded with an overwhelming military response which within a few weeks saw hundreds of air raids. Tanks and troops were deployed to launch a ground attack.

The incessant fighting resulted in an acute shortage of food, medicines, fuel and other resources in Gaza. A brief pause in fighting was negotiated between the warring sides by mediators US and Qatar. After a brief extension to the pause, the fight resumed. However, at least some humanitarian aid has been able to reach the Gazans and Israel has since agreed to let some fuel supply pass into Gaza.

High civilian casualties are increasing global pressure on Israel to take concrete steps to minimise collateral damage as it fights Hamas inside Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said on Monday (Dec 18) that the United States will continue providing arms and ammunitions to Israel. Austin was speaking in a joint press conference with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv.

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said on Monday (Dec 18) that the United States will continue providing arms and ammunitions to Israel. Austin was speaking in a joint press conference with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv. Israeli forces have continued their operation in the Gaza Strip. During the press conference, Austin also warned Iran that it must 'stop' supporting Yemen's Houthi rebels who have been attacking ships in the Red Sea which has already forced major ship operators and oil giants to stop using the waterways. "We'll continue to provide Israel with the equipment that you need to defend your country... including critical munitions, tactical vehicles and air defence systems," the US defence secretary said. "In the Red Sea, we're leading a multinational maritime task force to uphold the bedrock principle of freedom of navigation. Iran's support for Houthi attacks on commercial vessels must stop," Austin said. Gravitas | Gaza war: Is Israel's Netanyahu opening a new front? × The secretary of defence said that an international coalition was taking shape to address the situation in the Red Sea. "This is an international problem, and it deserves an international response," Austin said. "That's why I'm convening a meeting tomorrow, a ministerial meeting with fellow ministers in the region and beyond to address this threat," he said, adding it would be a virtual meeting. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli hacking group disrupts 70% of Iran’s petrol pumps Houthi rebels said earlier on Monday that they had attacked two "Israeli-linked" vessels in the Red Sea. Gaza death toll crosses 19,000 The Hamas-run health ministry in the Gaza Strip said on Monday that the death toll in the enclave has crossed 19,000. It now stands at 19,453, as per the health ministry. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Starvation used as a weapon of war in Gaza Strip, says HRW Hamas fighters launched an attack in southern Israel on October 7 killing at least 1200 people and taking more than 200 people hostage. Within a few days, Israel responded with an overwhelming military response which within a few weeks saw hundreds of air raids. Tanks and troops were deployed to launch a ground attack. The incessant fighting resulted in an acute shortage of food, medicines, fuel and other resources in Gaza. A brief pause in fighting was negotiated between the warring sides by mediators US and Qatar. After a brief extension to the pause, the fight resumed. However, at least some humanitarian aid has been able to reach the Gazans and Israel has since agreed to let some fuel supply pass into Gaza. High civilian casualties are increasing global pressure on Israel to take concrete steps to minimise collateral damage as it fights Hamas inside Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

US will 'continue' providing arms to Israel, says Austin

The US and its allies have announced a 10 nation patrol force to counter attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. After several commercial vessels were attacked.

Red Sea attacks disrupt sea shipping: 10 nation-coalition to combat Houthi attacks | WION

Several countries have agreed to jointly carry out patrols in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to try to safeguard commercial shipping against attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said.

US led force to patrol Red Sea in response to attacks by Houthis backing Palestinians

Legal troubles continue for former US President Donald Trump. A judge targeted the credibility of an expert witness fielded by Trump in his New York civil fraud trial.

US judge criticises Trump's expert witness, charged $1350 per hour on the case

Texas' Republican Governor has signed a crucial bill to allow state police to deport migrants accused of crossing into the US from Mexico illegally. The Republican majority Texas state has passed the bill last month.

Texas: Governor Abbot signs historic state law, allows police to arrest illegal migrants

President Biden’s approval rating hit a record low. According to reports, Biden pulled up senior campaign officials in November for failing to sell his achievements. Biden stands at 34% in Monmouth University Polls.

US: Biden's approval rating hit on key issues, stands at 34% in Monmouth University Polls

Biden pulled up campaign officials in Nov. for failing to sell his achievements: Report

US announces 10-nation force to patrol Red Sea routes against Houthi rebels

A 43-year-old man from the US state of Florida pleaded guilty to threatening to kill a Supreme Court justice, last week. The man, later identified as Neal Brij Sidhwaney, had issued a threat twice against a member of the SCOTUS, according to court filings.&nbsp;

Sidhwaney who hails from Fernandina Beach, Florida called the Supreme Court on July 31 “and left an expletive-laden, threatening voicemail message” for a member of the court, said the Department of Justice (DOJ) in a statement.&nbsp;

The 43-year-old, according to court documents, was arrested in August. He entered a guilty plea, on Friday (Dec 15) in Jacksonville, Florida to one felony count of making an interstate threat to injure, court records show.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-more-than-110-people-have-been-killed-after-earthquake-in-gansu-province-671082">China: Death toll rises to at least 126 after earthquake in Gansu province</a>

Sidhwaney made the threat twice in a voicemail message left on July 31, 2023, according to the court filings. However, prosecutors did not identify the targeted justice in court papers or in the statement, on Monday (Dec 18).&nbsp;

The name of the justice was revealed during a court-ordered psychological evaluation when Sidhwaney said he had threatened Chief Justice John Roberts.

“The identified official is Chief Justice John Roberts whom he allegedly contacted by phone call and threatened to kill,” said the competency assessment of Sidhwaney filed online with a federal court in Florida.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-to-cough-700mn-as-part-of-antitrust-settlement-week-after-defeat-against-epic-games-671324">Google to cough $700mn as part of antitrust settlement, week after defeat against Epic Games</a>

In the voicemail, as per Politico, the 43-year-old introduced himself and said that he had a message that he wanted the US Marshals to deliver to Roberts which included “I will fu**ing kill you.”

Sidhwaney faces up to five years in federal prison on the charge, but defendants typically receive less time. It was not immediately clear what prompted the threat by the 43-year-old.

According to the psychologist who evaluated him, he is competent to stand trial and of “superior” intelligence, but suffering from “delusional disorder with psychosis.” The doctor said that he is currently under treatment.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-loyalists-placed-in-pentagon-state-department-may-reshape-us-foreign-policy-report-671254">Trump would place loyalists in Pentagon, State Department to reshape US foreign policy: Report</a>

<h2>Sidhwaney’s arrest</h2>

The 43-year-old was arrested in August and has been in custody since. The US Supreme Court Police Protective Intelligence Unit investigated the case with help from the Capitol Police Threat Assessment Section, said the DOJ in a statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A 43-year-old man from the US state of Florida pleaded guilty to threatening to kill a Supreme Court justice, last week. The man, later identified as Neal Brij Sidhwaney, had issued a threat twice against a member of the SCOTUS, according to court filings.

A 43-year-old man from the US state of Florida pleaded guilty to threatening to kill a Supreme Court justice, last week. The man, later identified as Neal Brij Sidhwaney, had issued a threat twice against a member of the SCOTUS, according to court filings. Sidhwaney who hails from Fernandina Beach, Florida called the Supreme Court on July 31 “and left an expletive-laden, threatening voicemail message” for a member of the court, said the Department of Justice (DOJ) in a statement. The 43-year-old, according to court documents, was arrested in August. He entered a guilty plea, on Friday (Dec 15) in Jacksonville, Florida to one felony count of making an interstate threat to injure, court records show. ALSO READ | China: Death toll rises to at least 126 after earthquake in Gansu province Sidhwaney made the threat twice in a voicemail message left on July 31, 2023, according to the court filings. However, prosecutors did not identify the targeted justice in court papers or in the statement, on Monday (Dec 18). The name of the justice was revealed during a court-ordered psychological evaluation when Sidhwaney said he had threatened Chief Justice John Roberts. “The identified official is Chief Justice John Roberts whom he allegedly contacted by phone call and threatened to kill,” said the competency assessment of Sidhwaney filed online with a federal court in Florida. ALSO READ | Google to cough $700mn as part of antitrust settlement, week after defeat against Epic Games In the voicemail, as per Politico, the 43-year-old introduced himself and said that he had a message that he wanted the US Marshals to deliver to Roberts which included “I will fu**ing kill you.” Sidhwaney faces up to five years in federal prison on the charge, but defendants typically receive less time. It was not immediately clear what prompted the threat by the 43-year-old. According to the psychologist who evaluated him, he is competent to stand trial and of “superior” intelligence, but suffering from “delusional disorder with psychosis.” The doctor said that he is currently under treatment. ALSO READ | Trump would place loyalists in Pentagon, State Department to reshape US foreign policy: Report Sidhwaney’s arrest The 43-year-old was arrested in August and has been in custody since. The US Supreme Court Police Protective Intelligence Unit investigated the case with help from the Capitol Police Threat Assessment Section, said the DOJ in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Florida man pleads guilty to threatening to kill Supreme Court justice

An amusement park in Oakland, California has a Santa Claus with a difference. Black people are playing Santa Claud here and they are huge hit with the kids like everywhere else.

US: Oakland hosts Christmas celebration featuring Black Santas

US officials are warning that funding for Ukraine will run out this month if teh congress does not pass Joe Biden's emergency supplemental spending request.

US: Biden administration to use last of Ukraine funds

Ruby Franke, a mother of six, who gave parenting advice on a once popular YouTube channel called "8 Passengers" in the US state of Utah has pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse, on Monday (Dec 18). The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-ruby-franke-know-early-life-career-net-worth-of-youtuber-arrested-over-child-abuse-631193">41-year-old woman</a> reportedly convinced her two youngest children they were evil and possessed and needed to be punished to repent.

<h2>What happened in court?</h2>

Franke was originally charged with six counts of child abuse in September and has pleaded not guilty to two other counts, reported the Associated Press citing court records.&nbsp;

The 41-year-old former YouTuber faced accusations of starving and abusing her children after one of her sons managed to escape her former business partner’s home in Utah.&nbsp;

Franke, who once had over two million subscribers for her parenting vlog, appeared in court and pleaded guilty to each of the first three charges individually. On the fourth one, she said, “With my deepest regret and sorrow for my family and my children, guilty”.&nbsp;

Judge John Watson, who is presiding over the case, has scheduled sentencing for February 20, 2024. In line with the plea deal, prosecutors left sentencing exclusively up to the judge, said Franke’s attorney.

According to Utah law, second-degree aggravated child abuse can be charged if that person knowingly or intentionally inflicts serious physical injury to a child or causes or permits another to inflict serious physical injury to their child. Each of these charges carries 15 years in prison.&nbsp;

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this story disturbing. Discretion is advised.

<h2>About the case</h2>

The 41-year-old was arrested in August at the house of her former business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, 54. During the hearing on Monday, new details of the abuse the children endured emerged including claims that they were told that they are possessed.&nbsp;

Winward Law, in a statement, said that the abuse occurred while Franke was influenced by a relationship counsellor, Hildebrandt, who led her to “a distorted sense of morality” and called the 41-year-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/youtuber-ruby-franke-arrested-for-child-abuse-after-malnourished-kid-found-631029">“a devoted mother”</a>.&nbsp;

In August, Franke’s 12-year-old son escaped Hildebrandt’s house and told officers the 54-year-old had put ropes on his ankles and wrists, according to court documents.&nbsp;

The officials, at the time, said the boy had to be taken to the hospital “due to his deep lacerations from being tied up with rope and from his malnourishment”.&nbsp;

They later found Franke’s daughter, who was also malnourished, and took her to the hospital. Eventually, four of her children were placed in state custody.&nbsp;

The 41-year-old has admitted to torturing her 12-year-old son for months with hours of physical tasks, outdoor work during summers without enough water and “repeated and serious sunburns”. Her son was denied food or given very plain meals and was isolated from other people.&nbsp;

She reportedly restricted her son’s access to books, notebooks or electronics, and also kicked him while wearing boots, held his head under water and smothered his mouth and nose with her hands, reported the AP citing the plea agreement.

“He was also told that everything that was being done to him were acts of love,” the agreement stated. Franke also acknowledged similarly abusing her nine-year-old daughter.&nbsp;“She was also repeatedly told she was evil and possessed, the punishments were necessary for her to be obedient and repent,"&nbsp;the plea agreement said, adding that the girl was "convinced".&nbsp;

Both Franke and Hildebrandt have been arrested and charged with six felony counts of aggravated child abuse and remained jailed since their arrests.

The Franke family was criticised online for their vlogs for showing several of their appalling parenting decisions. Ruby’s husband, Kevin Franke, has since filed for divorce.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ruby Franke, a mother of six, who gave parenting advice on a once popular YouTube channel called "8 Passengers" in the US state of Utah has pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse, on Monday (Dec 18).

Ruby Franke, a mother of six, who gave parenting advice on a once popular YouTube channel called "8 Passengers" in the US state of Utah has pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse, on Monday (Dec 18). The 41-year-old woman reportedly convinced her two youngest children they were evil and possessed and needed to be punished to repent. What happened in court? Franke was originally charged with six counts of child abuse in September and has pleaded not guilty to two other counts, reported the Associated Press citing court records. The 41-year-old former YouTuber faced accusations of starving and abusing her children after one of her sons managed to escape her former business partner’s home in Utah. Franke, who once had over two million subscribers for her parenting vlog, appeared in court and pleaded guilty to each of the first three charges individually. On the fourth one, she said, “With my deepest regret and sorrow for my family and my children, guilty”. Judge John Watson, who is presiding over the case, has scheduled sentencing for February 20, 2024. In line with the plea deal, prosecutors left sentencing exclusively up to the judge, said Franke’s attorney. According to Utah law, second-degree aggravated child abuse can be charged if that person knowingly or intentionally inflicts serious physical injury to a child or causes or permits another to inflict serious physical injury to their child. Each of these charges carries 15 years in prison. Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this story disturbing. Discretion is advised. About the case The 41-year-old was arrested in August at the house of her former business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, 54. During the hearing on Monday, new details of the abuse the children endured emerged including claims that they were told that they are possessed. Winward Law, in a statement, said that the abuse occurred while Franke was influenced by a relationship counsellor, Hildebrandt, who led her to “a distorted sense of morality” and called the 41-year-old “a devoted mother”. In August, Franke’s 12-year-old son escaped Hildebrandt’s house and told officers the 54-year-old had put ropes on his ankles and wrists, according to court documents. The officials, at the time, said the boy had to be taken to the hospital “due to his deep lacerations from being tied up with rope and from his malnourishment”. They later found Franke’s daughter, who was also malnourished, and took her to the hospital. Eventually, four of her children were placed in state custody. The 41-year-old has admitted to torturing her 12-year-old son for months with hours of physical tasks, outdoor work during summers without enough water and “repeated and serious sunburns”. Her son was denied food or given very plain meals and was isolated from other people. She reportedly restricted her son’s access to books, notebooks or electronics, and also kicked him while wearing boots, held his head under water and smothered his mouth and nose with her hands, reported the AP citing the plea agreement. “He was also told that everything that was being done to him were acts of love,” the agreement stated. Franke also acknowledged similarly abusing her nine-year-old daughter. “She was also repeatedly told she was evil and possessed, the punishments were necessary for her to be obedient and repent," the plea agreement said, adding that the girl was "convinced". Both Franke and Hildebrandt have been arrested and charged with six felony counts of aggravated child abuse and remained jailed since their arrests. The Franke family was criticised online for their vlogs for showing several of their appalling parenting decisions. Ruby’s husband, Kevin Franke, has since filed for divorce. (With inputs from agencies)

Ruby Franke, mother of six and parenting advice YouTuber, pleads guilty to child abuse

Sri Lanka has halted foreign research vessels docking after concerns about Chinese spying were raised by the United States and India. The move aims to address regional security concerns. Interestingly, this decision comes only a week after the Colombo Security Conclave that took place on December 7-8, 2023.

Sri Lanka halts docking of foreign research ships amid Chinese spying concerns | WION

After overseeing the third test of his nation's most advanced missile, which is intended to target the U.S. mainland, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un warned "more offensive actions" to counter what he called growing military threats from the United States, state media said on Tuesday.

Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles | World News | WION

North Korea: Kim Jong-Un sees Hwasong-18 missile launch, images released a day after test firing

In response to a patent dispute affecting the blood oxygen feature, Apple has announced the temporary suspension of sales for its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches in the United States, as reported by Reuters.

The move follows an October order from the US International Trade Commission (ITC) that could prohibit Apple from importing these smartwatches due to alleged patent violations against medical technology company Masimo.<o:p></o:p>

The ITC order, currently under review by President Joe Biden until December 25, may take effect on December 26 if not vetoed. Apple has indicated that it will comply with the ruling if it stands. The ban would restrict the import of Apple Watches and is based on the allegation that the devices violate Masimo's patent rights.<o:p></o:p>

Apple has outlined its compliance plan, announcing a pause in sales on its website starting from December 21 and in Apple retail locations after December 24. However, models without the blood oxygen sensor, such as Apple's lower-priced Apple Watch SE, remain unaffected.<o:p></o:p>

While the impact on holiday sales is expected to be minimal, Ryan Reith, program vice president for research firm IDC's mobile device tracking efforts, anticipates the full effect in January and February. Reith notes that Apple has sufficient inventory of Watch 8 and SE to meet demand during this period.<o:p></o:p>

Masimo CEO Joe Kiani expressed openness to negotiating a deal with Apple in October. The company, in a statement, emphasised the importance of respecting the ITC decision to protect intellectual property rights. Apple, holding about a quarter of the global smartwatch market, plans to appeal the decision to the Federal Circuit.<o:p></o:p>

In response to the ban, Apple is reportedly making changes to algorithms in the smartwatches to address the dispute. The technology's oxygen saturation calculation and consumer data presentation are being tweaked by engineers. Apple is exploring legal and technical options and has begun preparing stores for potential changes.<o:p></o:p>

While the ban does not impact sales outside the United States, Apple's wearables, home, and accessory business, including the Apple Watch, generated $8.28 billion in revenue during the third quarter of 2023.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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In response to a patent dispute affecting the blood oxygen feature, Apple has announced the temporary suspension of sales for its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches in the United States, as reported by Reuters.

In response to a patent dispute affecting the blood oxygen feature, Apple has announced the temporary suspension of sales for its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches in the United States, as reported by Reuters. The move follows an October order from the US International Trade Commission (ITC) that could prohibit Apple from importing these smartwatches due to alleged patent violations against medical technology company Masimo. The ITC order, currently under review by President Joe Biden until December 25, may take effect on December 26 if not vetoed. Apple has indicated that it will comply with the ruling if it stands. The ban would restrict the import of Apple Watches and is based on the allegation that the devices violate Masimo's patent rights. Apple has outlined its compliance plan, announcing a pause in sales on its website starting from December 21 and in Apple retail locations after December 24. However, models without the blood oxygen sensor, such as Apple's lower-priced Apple Watch SE, remain unaffected. While the impact on holiday sales is expected to be minimal, Ryan Reith, program vice president for research firm IDC's mobile device tracking efforts, anticipates the full effect in January and February. Reith notes that Apple has sufficient inventory of Watch 8 and SE to meet demand during this period. Masimo CEO Joe Kiani expressed openness to negotiating a deal with Apple in October. The company, in a statement, emphasised the importance of respecting the ITC decision to protect intellectual property rights. Apple, holding about a quarter of the global smartwatch market, plans to appeal the decision to the Federal Circuit. In response to the ban, Apple is reportedly making changes to algorithms in the smartwatches to address the dispute. The technology's oxygen saturation calculation and consumer data presentation are being tweaked by engineers. Apple is exploring legal and technical options and has begun preparing stores for potential changes. While the ban does not impact sales outside the United States, Apple's wearables, home, and accessory business, including the Apple Watch, generated $8.28 billion in revenue during the third quarter of 2023. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Apple halts US sales of Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches amid patent dispute

North Korea launches missile to warn US? Kim and daughter watch long-range missile test

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday held a joint press conference with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv. Austin emphasised the USA's commitment to Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas while also expressing a desire for regional stability for both Palestinians and Israelis.

Houthi attacks on shipping in Red Sea threaten global consequences

What is the Rwanda migrant Deportation bill? Will the UK send asylum seekers back to Africa? What's next for Afghan migrants forced out of Pakistan? 2023 also witnessed migrants crossing the US-Mexico border in record numbers. December 18: On International Migrants Day, we look at the challenges faced by millions of people on the move. Watch WION Wideangle.

International Migrants Day: Chasing Hope, Home, Honour

The United States wants to form the "broadest possible" maritime coalition to protect ships in the Red Sea and send an "important signal" to Yemen's Houthis that further attacks will not be tolerated, the U.S. envoy for Yemen.

US seeks 'broadest possible' Red Sea maritime coalition against Houthi attacks

Stricter regulations are underway as iraq confronts challenges like the smuggling of dollars to nations facing US Sanctions. The government, keen on consolidating its monetary sovereignty, restricts new money wired from abroad to dinars. To tackle illicit trade, iraq adopts the swift system and encourages importers to use official channels.

Iraq pushes to shift away from dollar dependency

Faced with escalating tensions and potential sanctions, China is seeking Malaysian expertise for assembling high-end chips, particularly graphics processing units (GPUS).

China turns to Malaysia for chip assembly amid US Sanction concerns

A security breach in Delaware involving President Joe Biden raises alarms about presidential safety. A sedan unexpectedly collided with a Secret Service vehicle near Biden, sparking rapid response from armed agents. This incident, occurring close to the heavily secured presidential motorcade, prompts serious questions about potential vulnerabilities in the President's security, especially in a time of geopolitical tension.

Gravitas | US: Car rams into Biden's motorcade; President & First Lady Jill Biden escape unharmed

In a miraculous turn of events, a four-month-old baby named Lord was discovered unharmed in a tree after being swept up by a tornado that struck Tennessee. His parents, expressing gratitude, attributed the baby's safety to divine intervention, as the deadly tornado tore through their mobile home, lifting the bassinet with the infant still inside.

Lord's mother, Sydney Moore, narrated the traumatic experience to BBC, revealing that the tornado's tip descended, picking up the bassinet and making her baby the first victim. Despite efforts by the father to shield the infant, both were caught in the vortex. Moore vividly described being crushed as the mobile home's wall collapsed while attempting to protect her other son.

"He was just holding on to the bassinet the whole time, and they went into circles, he said, and then they got thrown," said Moore, adding that as she rushed to protect her other son, the wall of the mobile home collapsed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/woman-goes-to-hospital-with-stomach-pain-walks-out-with-baby-that-was-growing-in-her-bowel-669342">Also read |&nbsp;Woman goes to hospital with stomach pain, walks out with a baby weeks later</a>

<h2>Frantic search and miraculous discovery</h2>

Following the tornado's passage, the parents, amidst panic, discovered Lord missing. In a frantic search, they miraculously found the baby safely nestled in a tree about 25 feet away.

Moore described the discovery as if the baby had been carefully placed in a tree, resembling a "cubby hole" at the bottom.

Also watch |&nbsp;Tennessee Tornado kill at least six, leave tens of thousands without power

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tennessee-tornado-kill-at-least-six-leave-tens-of-thousands-without-power-668614/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The emotional reunion unfolded as the family navigated the tornado aftermath. Moore emotionally recounted witnessing her fiance, Aramis Youngblood, bringing back the baby through the woods, soaked in rain and with torn clothes.&nbsp;

While the family experienced a miraculous reunion, the tornado left a trail of devastation in its wake. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office reported three fatalities and nearly two dozen injuries in connection with the tornado incident.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a miraculous turn of events, a four-month-old baby named Lord was discovered unharmed in a tree after being swept up by a tornado that struck Tennessee. His parents, expressing gratitude, attributed the baby's safety to divine intervention, as the deadly tornado tore through their mobile home, lifting the bassinet with the infant still inside.

In a miraculous turn of events, a four-month-old baby named Lord was discovered unharmed in a tree after being swept up by a tornado that struck Tennessee. His parents, expressing gratitude, attributed the baby's safety to divine intervention, as the deadly tornado tore through their mobile home, lifting the bassinet with the infant still inside. Lord's mother, Sydney Moore, narrated the traumatic experience to BBC, revealing that the tornado's tip descended, picking up the bassinet and making her baby the first victim. Despite efforts by the father to shield the infant, both were caught in the vortex. Moore vividly described being crushed as the mobile home's wall collapsed while attempting to protect her other son. "He was just holding on to the bassinet the whole time, and they went into circles, he said, and then they got thrown," said Moore, adding that as she rushed to protect her other son, the wall of the mobile home collapsed. Also read | Woman goes to hospital with stomach pain, walks out with a baby weeks later Frantic search and miraculous discovery Following the tornado's passage, the parents, amidst panic, discovered Lord missing. In a frantic search, they miraculously found the baby safely nestled in a tree about 25 feet away. Moore described the discovery as if the baby had been carefully placed in a tree, resembling a "cubby hole" at the bottom. Also watch | Tennessee Tornado kill at least six, leave tens of thousands without power The emotional reunion unfolded as the family navigated the tornado aftermath. Moore emotionally recounted witnessing her fiance, Aramis Youngblood, bringing back the baby through the woods, soaked in rain and with torn clothes. While the family experienced a miraculous reunion, the tornado left a trail of devastation in its wake. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office reported three fatalities and nearly two dozen injuries in connection with the tornado incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Miracle in storm: Four-month-old US baby found alive in tree after tornado lifts bassinet

Republican frontrunner Donald Trump now has the largest-ever lead over president Joe Biden. Less than a year before election day, polls show Trump leading Biden in key swing states that are likely to decide the 2024 election. They indicate that Trump is in a strong position to recapture the White House. Have these polls led former President Barack Obama to fear that Biden could lose his re-election bid?

US: Obama fears Biden could lose in 2024? | Race to Power

Former US President Donald Trump has doubled down on his pledge to be tough on immigration. Speaking at a rally in Nevada, he promised the largest deportation operation in American history.

Trump plans 'largest deportation operation in American history'

In a groundbreaking study, scientists exploring Southern California's Salton Sea, the state's largest lake, have unearthed a staggering lithium reservoir worth an estimated $540 billion. The 'white gold' discovery comes as a game-changer, positioning the United States as a potential leader in lithium production.

This newfound abundance has the potential to supply batteries for over 382 million electric vehicles, propelling the US&nbsp;into a prominent role in the global lithium market.

Governor Gavin Newsom's prior description of Salton Lake as the "Saudi Arabia of lithium" now aligns with reality, as the lake emerges as the largest lithium source globally.

This discovery holds significant implications for energy storage, electric vehicle production, and reducing dependence on foreign lithium imports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/experts-say-indias-huge-lithium-discovery-can-be-a-boon-for-worlds-white-gold-quest-heres-how-561961">Also read |&nbsp;Experts say India's huge lithium discovery can be a boon for world's 'white gold' quest, here's how</a>

<h2>Challenges in extracting 'white gold'</h2>

While the lithium reservoir is promising, the extraction process presents challenges.

Using&nbsp;geothermal production wells, researchers must carefully manage the process to prevent environmental impact and address potential concerns for the 180,000 residents residing in proximity to the Salton Sea, according to Indy100.

The extraction process also poses questions about water usage and potential effects on the region's water supply from the Colorado River.

The environmental and social considerations underscore the need for responsible extraction practices. As the extraction process unfolds, it must navigate the delicate balance between harnessing the economic potential of the lithium reservoir and safeguarding the well-being of nearby residents and the region's water supply.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Portuguese PM Resigns over lithium deal probe

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-portuguese-pm-resigns-over-lithium-deal-probe-656684/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The lithium reservoir's successful extraction could revolutionise the energy landscape, supplying a significant volume of batteries for the expanding electric vehicle market.

This discovery also aligns with broader sustainability goals, offering the potential for the United States to secure its lithium self-sufficiency and contribute to the global shift toward cleaner energy.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a groundbreaking study, scientists exploring Southern California's Salton Sea, the state's largest lake, have unearthed a staggering lithium reservoir worth an estimated $540 billion.

In a groundbreaking study, scientists exploring Southern California's Salton Sea, the state's largest lake, have unearthed a staggering lithium reservoir worth an estimated $540 billion. The 'white gold' discovery comes as a game-changer, positioning the United States as a potential leader in lithium production. This newfound abundance has the potential to supply batteries for over 382 million electric vehicles, propelling the US into a prominent role in the global lithium market. Governor Gavin Newsom's prior description of Salton Lake as the "Saudi Arabia of lithium" now aligns with reality, as the lake emerges as the largest lithium source globally. This discovery holds significant implications for energy storage, electric vehicle production, and reducing dependence on foreign lithium imports. Also read | Experts say India's huge lithium discovery can be a boon for world's 'white gold' quest, here's how Challenges in extracting 'white gold' While the lithium reservoir is promising, the extraction process presents challenges. Using geothermal production wells, researchers must carefully manage the process to prevent environmental impact and address potential concerns for the 180,000 residents residing in proximity to the Salton Sea, according to Indy100. The extraction process also poses questions about water usage and potential effects on the region's water supply from the Colorado River. The environmental and social considerations underscore the need for responsible extraction practices. As the extraction process unfolds, it must navigate the delicate balance between harnessing the economic potential of the lithium reservoir and safeguarding the well-being of nearby residents and the region's water supply. Also watch | Gravitas: Portuguese PM Resigns over lithium deal probe The lithium reservoir's successful extraction could revolutionise the energy landscape, supplying a significant volume of batteries for the expanding electric vehicle market. This discovery also aligns with broader sustainability goals, offering the potential for the United States to secure its lithium self-sufficiency and contribute to the global shift toward cleaner energy. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists find massive $540bn lithium deposit at bottom of US lake, and this could be a real game-changer

US Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin is in Israel to persuade the government there to end its high-intensity war and shift to a more focused and limited conflict in Gaza.

US Secretary of Defense on a multi-day visit to West Asia

North Korea fired what appeared to be a long-range ballistic missile on Monday, South Korea and Japan said, its second missile launch in less than 12 hours as Pyongyang condemned a U.S.led show of force against the nuclear armed state.

North Korea fires long-range ballistic missile | US warns against nuclear attacks

This weekend's significant rain and wind storm could potentially cause flooding for over 60 million people living along the East Coast. According to the National Weather Service and CBS News partner The Weather Channel, the storm system formed in the Gulf of Mexico, battered portions of Florida on Saturday and Sunday as it raced up the coast, and dumped a ton of moderate to heavy rain on more northern states.

US: East Coast storm brings heavy rains & powerful winds; 200,000 homes without power | WION

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Israel-hamas war: Israel signals gradual shift in Gaza war, after US defense chief visit

US will 'continue' providing arms to Israel, says Austin

Red Sea attacks disrupt sea shipping: 10 nation-coalition to combat Houthi attacks | WION

US led force to patrol Red Sea in response to attacks by Houthis backing Palestinians

US judge criticises Trump's expert witness, charged $1350 per hour on the case

Texas: Governor Abbot signs historic state law, allows police to arrest illegal migrants

US: Biden's approval rating hit on key issues, stands at 34% in Monmouth University Polls

Biden pulled up campaign officials in Nov. for failing to sell his achievements: Report

US announces 10-nation force to patrol Red Sea routes against Houthi rebels

US: Florida man pleads guilty to threatening to kill Supreme Court justice

US: Oakland hosts Christmas celebration featuring Black Santas

US: Biden administration to use last of Ukraine funds

Ruby Franke, mother of six and parenting advice YouTuber, pleads guilty to child abuse

Ruby Franke, mother of six and parenting advice YouTuber, pleads guilty to child abuse

Sri Lanka halts docking of foreign research ships amid Chinese spying concerns | WION

Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles | World News | WION

North Korea: Kim Jong-Un sees Hwasong-18 missile launch, images released a day after test firing

Apple halts US sales of Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches amid patent dispute

North Korea launches missile to warn US? Kim and daughter watch long-range missile test

Houthi attacks on shipping in Red Sea threaten global consequences

International Migrants Day: Chasing Hope, Home, Honour

US seeks 'broadest possible' Red Sea maritime coalition against Houthi attacks

Iraq pushes to shift away from dollar dependency

China turns to Malaysia for chip assembly amid US Sanction concerns