The Philippines has summoned China’s envoy, said the foreign ministry&nbsp;on Monday (Dec 11) amid some of the most tense confrontations between the countries’ vessels in the disputed South China Sea. Meanwhile, the United States has accused China of interfering in the Philippines’ maritime operations and undermining regional stability.&nbsp;

<h2>Philippines summons Chinese envoy</h2>

Philippines’ foreign ministry spokeswoman Teresita Daza during a press conference said that Manila has filed diplomatic protests and “the Chinese ambassador has also been summoned” amid a rise in tensions in the disputed South China Sea.&nbsp;

On Sunday (Dec 10), a Philippine coastguard official accused China of aggressive actions in the South China Sea, alleging that Chinese forces fired a water cannon and rammed two Philippine resupply vessels.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-accuses-china-of-ramming-using-water-cannon-on-resupply-vessels-in-south-china-sea-668091">Philippines accuses China of ramming, using water cannon on resupply vessels in South China Sea</a>

One of the Philippine ships sustained “serious engine damage” during the encounter, said the Philippine official, adding that China also “deliberately” rammed into another one.

The recent incident marked the second collision between Philippine and Chinese ships in the vicinity of Second Thomas Shoal since October.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Serious escalation’</h2>

Daza said declaring China’s ambassador Huang Xilian as “persona non grata” in the Philippines was also “something that has to be seriously considered”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general of the National Security Council in the Philippines told the reporters that the incident over the weekend was a “serious escalation” of Beijing’s tactics to assert their claim over the South China Sea.

Manila, on Monday also said that the vessel which was&nbsp;both sprayed with a water cannon and rammed was carrying&nbsp;a senior Philippine military official.&nbsp;

Philippine Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Romeo Brawner who was on board the vessel told&nbsp;radio station DZBB that he was not hurt by the incident&nbsp;and that he does not believe China knew he was on board the boat.&nbsp;

China has repeatedly claimed the entire South China Sea, including waters and islands near the shores of its neighbours as a part of its territory ignoring the verdict of an international tribunal which said that Beijing’s claims have no legal basis.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Dangerous and destabilizing’</h2>

Washington, on Monday (Dec 11) released a statement urging Beijing to stop its “dangerous and destabilizing conduct” in the South China Sea following the alleged ramming and water cannoning of Filipino boats by Chinese vessels which were on a resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal, where its soldiers are stationed.&nbsp;

“Obstructing supply lines to this longstanding outpost and interfering with lawful Philippines maritime operations undermines regional stability,” said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller&nbsp;in a Dec 10 statement shared by the US embassy in Manila on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-f-16-fighter-jet-crashes-in-south-korea-during-training-exercise-reports-668319">ALSO READ |&nbsp;US F-16 fighter jet crashes in South Korea during training exercise: Report</a>

The US also reiterated its support for its treaty ally, the Philippines, and reaffirmed its commitment to the mutual defence pact.&nbsp;

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. deemed the presence of Chinese coast guard vessels and maritime militia in his country’s waters as illegal and their actions against Filipinos as outright violations of international law.

In a post on X, he also said that Manila is determined to defend and protect its nation’s sovereign rights in the South China Sea amid “aggression and provocations” by Beijing.

<h2>How has China responded?</h2>

China, on Monday (Dec 11) released a statement responding to the allegations by the Philippines and called its actions&nbsp;"professional" and "restrained".&nbsp;

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing's Coast Guard "took necessary measures against the Philippine ships in accordance with domestic and international law". She added,&nbsp;"The operations were professional, restrained, reasonable and legal."&nbsp;

Beijing's&nbsp;foreign ministry, Mao added, "has lodged stern representations with the Philippines and expresses its strong protest".

Beijing also urged Manila to immediately stop its violations, control its provocative actions, and “refrain from shooting itself in the foot”, in a commentary piece in China’s official military newspaper, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

The PLA Daily added that “some hegemonic countries” have resorted to “instigating trouble, creating division and inciting confrontation” in the South China Sea, and that those countries “openly endorsed” illegal infringement and provocation by the Philippines.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-announces-stricter-visa-rules-for-students-workers-as-it-prepares-to-overhaul-immigration-system-668343">&nbsp;Australia announces stricter visa rules for students, workers as it prepares to overhaul immigration system</a>

“It must be pointed out that the Philippines’ actions are closely connected to the instigation and abetment of external forces,” said the military newspaper, without naming any government.&nbsp;

In response to the incident over the weekend, the Chinese Coast Guard said it would continue to carry out “law-enforcement activities” in its waters.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippines has summoned China’s envoy, said the foreign ministry on Monday (Dec 11) amid some of the most tense confrontations between the countries’ vessels in the disputed South China Sea.

The Philippines has summoned China’s envoy, said the foreign ministry on Monday (Dec 11) amid some of the most tense confrontations between the countries’ vessels in the disputed South China Sea. Meanwhile, the United States has accused China of interfering in the Philippines’ maritime operations and undermining regional stability. Philippines summons Chinese envoy Philippines’ foreign ministry spokeswoman Teresita Daza during a press conference said that Manila has filed diplomatic protests and “the Chinese ambassador has also been summoned” amid a rise in tensions in the disputed South China Sea. On Sunday (Dec 10), a Philippine coastguard official accused China of aggressive actions in the South China Sea, alleging that Chinese forces fired a water cannon and rammed two Philippine resupply vessels. ALSO READ | Philippines accuses China of ramming, using water cannon on resupply vessels in South China Sea One of the Philippine ships sustained “serious engine damage” during the encounter, said the Philippine official, adding that China also “deliberately” rammed into another one. The recent incident marked the second collision between Philippine and Chinese ships in the vicinity of Second Thomas Shoal since October. ‘Serious escalation’ Daza said declaring China’s ambassador Huang Xilian as “persona non grata” in the Philippines was also “something that has to be seriously considered”. Meanwhile, Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general of the National Security Council in the Philippines told the reporters that the incident over the weekend was a “serious escalation” of Beijing’s tactics to assert their claim over the South China Sea. Manila, on Monday also said that the vessel which was both sprayed with a water cannon and rammed was carrying a senior Philippine military official. Philippine Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Romeo Brawner who was on board the vessel told radio station DZBB that he was not hurt by the incident and that he does not believe China knew he was on board the boat. China has repeatedly claimed the entire South China Sea, including waters and islands near the shores of its neighbours as a part of its territory ignoring the verdict of an international tribunal which said that Beijing’s claims have no legal basis. ‘Dangerous and destabilizing’ Washington, on Monday (Dec 11) released a statement urging Beijing to stop its “dangerous and destabilizing conduct” in the South China Sea following the alleged ramming and water cannoning of Filipino boats by Chinese vessels which were on a resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal, where its soldiers are stationed. “Obstructing supply lines to this longstanding outpost and interfering with lawful Philippines maritime operations undermines regional stability,” said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller in a Dec 10 statement shared by the US embassy in Manila on Monday. ALSO READ | US F-16 fighter jet crashes in South Korea during training exercise: Report The US also reiterated its support for its treaty ally, the Philippines, and reaffirmed its commitment to the mutual defence pact. Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. deemed the presence of Chinese coast guard vessels and maritime militia in his country’s waters as illegal and their actions against Filipinos as outright violations of international law. In a post on X, he also said that Manila is determined to defend and protect its nation’s sovereign rights in the South China Sea amid “aggression and provocations” by Beijing. How has China responded? China, on Monday (Dec 11) released a statement responding to the allegations by the Philippines and called its actions "professional" and "restrained". Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing's Coast Guard "took necessary measures against the Philippine ships in accordance with domestic and international law". She added, "The operations were professional, restrained, reasonable and legal." Beijing's foreign ministry, Mao added, "has lodged stern representations with the Philippines and expresses its strong protest". Beijing also urged Manila to immediately stop its violations, control its provocative actions, and “refrain from shooting itself in the foot”, in a commentary piece in China’s official military newspaper, reported Reuters. The PLA Daily added that “some hegemonic countries” have resorted to “instigating trouble, creating division and inciting confrontation” in the South China Sea, and that those countries “openly endorsed” illegal infringement and provocation by the Philippines. ALSO READ | Australia announces stricter visa rules for students, workers as it prepares to overhaul immigration system “It must be pointed out that the Philippines’ actions are closely connected to the instigation and abetment of external forces,” said the military newspaper, without naming any government. In response to the incident over the weekend, the Chinese Coast Guard said it would continue to carry out “law-enforcement activities” in its waters. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines summons Chinese envoy over S.China Sea row; US accuses Beijing of undermining regional stability

The Philippines and China continue their blame game in the territory of the South China Sea. In the latest the Philippines has accused China of using water canons to obstruct three of its vessels.

Philippines summons Chinese ambassador for an answer on South China Sea confrontations

Israel has yet again rebuffed international calls to end the offensive in Gaza, this multiplies global concerns over whether the United States should condition if not halt its military support for Israel. This comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed Washington's veto on a United Nations resolution urging a ceasefire in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas War | PM Netanyahu: Thank Biden for US' firm & just stance in the UNSC

In pics: At least six killed, thousands left without power after storms tear through Tennessee

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US Wants to buy up to 3 Mn barrels for strategic reserve

Vladimir Putin has been a towering figure in post-soviet Russia. He has been in power since late 1999, shaping Russia's economy in the 21st century.

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At least six people are dead and 23 others are injured after a heavy thunderstorm and tornado roared through Tennessee state in the US. More than 880,000 people have been left without power.

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The president of the University of Pennsylvania has stepped down. This is in the wake of a firestorm of criticism after appearing for a congressional hearing on the rise in anti-Semitism on US campuses. This makes her the first out of the three Ivy League university heads who testified to step down.

UPenn Board of Trustees' Chair resigns after Magill steps down

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US Antisemitism row: UPenn President Liz Magill resigns after Testimony backlash

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Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones's account on X that had been banned was reinstated by Elon Musk after nearly five years, on Sunday (Dec 10). The United States conspiracy theorist’s account was reinstated after a poll organised by owner Musk backed his return.&nbsp;

The poll was posted on Saturday (Dec 9) and was active for more than 12 hours. Musk had asked users to vote on whether or not to lift a ban on Jones, which was imposed before he bought the platform, adding that he would listen to the people and honour the result.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musks-twitter-now-x-sues-non-profit-that-documented-the-rise-in-hate-speech-on-platform-621407">Musk’s Twitter, now X, sues non-profit that documented rise in hate speech on platform</a>

Nearly two million people voted by the time the poll closed and around 70 per cent voted in favour of Jones’ return. In a subsequent post, Musk said, “The people have spoken and so it shall be.”&nbsp;

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Reinstate Alex Jones on this platform? 
 
Vox Populi, Vox Dei.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1733529033575465381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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While there is no confirmation from Musk, X or Alex Jones himself that his account has been reinstated, his account “@RealAlexJones” no longer indicates that it was banned with the last post from September 6, 2018, the day X, then Twitter, had permanently banned his account and website Infowars from its platform.&nbsp;

At the time, Twitter had said that Jones’ accounts had violated its behaviour policies weeks after most platforms including Facebook, YouTube, Google, and Apple had taken down his podcasts and channels citing community standards.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-twitter-account-reappears-after-elon-musk-announces-reinstatement-535683">Musk brings back Trump's Twitter account, but he's not back, yet</a>

<h2>Who is the infamous conspiracy theorist?</h2>

Alex Jones has repeatedly made headlines for all the wrong reasons, including his outlandish conspiracy theories on his website Infowars. However, he is most famous for falsely claiming that the 2012 Sandy Hook school shooting which claimed the lives of 20 children and six adults was “staged” as part of a government plot to seize Americans’ guns.

He has since been ordered to pay $1.5 billion in damages to the victims’ family members by the American courts who said that the Infowars host’s claims have incited death threats and harassment. They also reportedly received regular abuse from his followers on social media, including threats of digging up the coffins of their loved ones.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aint-going-to-be-happening-alex-jones-denies-to-pay-965-million-damages-to-sandy-hook-victims-families-525426">‘Ain’t going to be happening': Alex Jones refuses to pay $965 million damages to Sandy Hook victims' families</a>

Jones was banned from Twitter&nbsp;in 2018. It is worth noting that Musk, who is a self-described free-speech absolutist, had previously ignored calls from the Infowars host’s supporters to reinstate his account.&nbsp;

The X owner cited the death of his 10-week-old baby, in 2022, as motivation for not reversing the ban saying, “I have no mercy for anyone who would use the death of children for gain, politics or fame.”

Musk, on Saturday in response to one user’s post, said he “vehemently” disagreed with Jones’ statements about Sandy Hook, adding “but are we a platform that believes in freedom of speech or are we not?”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones's account on X that had been banned was reinstated by Elon Musk after nearly five years, on Sunday (Dec 10). The United States conspiracy theorist’s account was reinstated after a poll organised by owner Musk backed his return.

Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones's account on X that had been banned was reinstated by Elon Musk after nearly five years, on Sunday (Dec 10). The United States conspiracy theorist’s account was reinstated after a poll organised by owner Musk backed his return. The poll was posted on Saturday (Dec 9) and was active for more than 12 hours. Musk had asked users to vote on whether or not to lift a ban on Jones, which was imposed before he bought the platform, adding that he would listen to the people and honour the result. ALSO READ | Musk’s Twitter, now X, sues non-profit that documented rise in hate speech on platform Nearly two million people voted by the time the poll closed and around 70 per cent voted in favour of Jones’ return. In a subsequent post, Musk said, “The people have spoken and so it shall be.” Reinstate Alex Jones on this platform? Vox Populi, Vox Dei. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 9, 2023 × While there is no confirmation from Musk, X or Alex Jones himself that his account has been reinstated, his account “@RealAlexJones” no longer indicates that it was banned with the last post from September 6, 2018, the day X, then Twitter, had permanently banned his account and website Infowars from its platform. At the time, Twitter had said that Jones’ accounts had violated its behaviour policies weeks after most platforms including Facebook, YouTube, Google, and Apple had taken down his podcasts and channels citing community standards. ALSO READ | Musk brings back Trump's Twitter account, but he's not back, yet Who is the infamous conspiracy theorist? Alex Jones has repeatedly made headlines for all the wrong reasons, including his outlandish conspiracy theories on his website Infowars. However, he is most famous for falsely claiming that the 2012 Sandy Hook school shooting which claimed the lives of 20 children and six adults was “staged” as part of a government plot to seize Americans’ guns. He has since been ordered to pay $1.5 billion in damages to the victims’ family members by the American courts who said that the Infowars host’s claims have incited death threats and harassment. They also reportedly received regular abuse from his followers on social media, including threats of digging up the coffins of their loved ones. ALSO READ | ‘Ain’t going to be happening': Alex Jones refuses to pay $965 million damages to Sandy Hook victims' families Jones was banned from Twitter in 2018. It is worth noting that Musk, who is a self-described free-speech absolutist, had previously ignored calls from the Infowars host’s supporters to reinstate his account. The X owner cited the death of his 10-week-old baby, in 2022, as motivation for not reversing the ban saying, “I have no mercy for anyone who would use the death of children for gain, politics or fame.” Musk, on Saturday in response to one user’s post, said he “vehemently” disagreed with Jones’ statements about Sandy Hook, adding “but are we a platform that believes in freedom of speech or are we not?” (With inputs from agencies)

Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones' account reinstated on X after being banned for nearly five years

Fighting has intensified in southern Gaza. Israel's ground offensive is centred around Khan Younis as a humanitarian situation continues to worsen by the hour in the besieged strip. Calls for protecting human rights for Gazans grow but Washington's support for Israel remains undeterred.

Israel-Hamas war: US skips congressional review for sale of tank shells to Israel

University of Pennsylvania President resigns

Surveillance footage captured an unusual burglary at Sparkman Cellars in Woodinville, Washington. A man wearing a cowboy hat and poncho, along with a mask, targeted the family-operated winery, destroying meticulously crafted white wine valued at $600,000.

The incident occurred on Thanksgiving eve, with the suspect casually entering the building using an employee keycode on the side door around 7:34 pm.

The video footage shows the peculiar intruder entering the winery and deliberately spilling gallons of hand-crafted white wine from tanks, causing extensive damage.

The suspect exited through a back door, carrying an umbrella, and disappeared into the woods. The wine spill continued for at least nine minutes, flooding the ground.

Watch the video here:

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if you need me i’ll be fascinated by the break-in at sparkman cellars where someone dressed in a hat and mask emptied two tanks of white. the story behind this is going to be amazing <a href="https://t.co/8wnT2dxePO">pic.twitter.com/8wnT2dxePO</a>
— Brian Floyd (@BrianMFloyd) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrianMFloyd/status/1731846148003098857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Calculated attack</h2>

The King County Sheriff's Office revealed that the suspect accessed the facility through an employee entrance using a code on November 22.

The man emptied two stainless steel wine tanks, each holding approximately 2500 gallons. Sergeant Eric White stated that the incident reflected the perpetrator's intent to cause significant financial loss to the winery.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sipping-with-sorrow-wine-output-drops-to-1961-levels-656458">Also read |&nbsp;Sipping with sorrow: Wine output drops to 1961 levels</a>

<h2>Family business hit</h2>

In a statement to FOX 13, the Sparkman family expressed the impact of the crime on their small family business. They mentioned that the timing of the burglary, right before the holidays, exacerbated the difficulty.

Also watch |&nbsp;Scientists create AI tool to catch wine fraud, AI-based method can verify origin of wines

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-create-ai-tool-to-catch-wine-fraud-ai-based-method-can-verify-origin-of-wines-666476/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Despite the unimaginable crime, the family remains committed to delivering high-quality wines to its customers. The Sparkmans appreciated the outpouring of support from the community of wineries, restaurants, retailers, and wine enthusiasts.

(With inputs from agencies)

Surveillance footage captured an unusual burglary at Sparkman Cellars in Woodinville, Washington. A man wearing a cowboy hat and poncho, along with a mask, targeted the family-operated winery, destroying meticulously crafted white wine valued at $600,000.

Surveillance footage captured an unusual burglary at Sparkman Cellars in Woodinville, Washington. A man wearing a cowboy hat and poncho, along with a mask, targeted the family-operated winery, destroying meticulously crafted white wine valued at $600,000. The incident occurred on Thanksgiving eve, with the suspect casually entering the building using an employee keycode on the side door around 7:34 pm. The video footage shows the peculiar intruder entering the winery and deliberately spilling gallons of hand-crafted white wine from tanks, causing extensive damage. The suspect exited through a back door, carrying an umbrella, and disappeared into the woods. The wine spill continued for at least nine minutes, flooding the ground. Watch the video here: if you need me i’ll be fascinated by the break-in at sparkman cellars where someone dressed in a hat and mask emptied two tanks of white. the story behind this is going to be amazing pic.twitter.com/8wnT2dxePO — Brian Floyd (@BrianMFloyd) December 5, 2023 × Calculated attack The King County Sheriff's Office revealed that the suspect accessed the facility through an employee entrance using a code on November 22. The man emptied two stainless steel wine tanks, each holding approximately 2500 gallons. Sergeant Eric White stated that the incident reflected the perpetrator's intent to cause significant financial loss to the winery. Also read | Sipping with sorrow: Wine output drops to 1961 levels Family business hit In a statement to FOX 13, the Sparkman family expressed the impact of the crime on their small family business. They mentioned that the timing of the burglary, right before the holidays, exacerbated the difficulty. Also watch | Scientists create AI tool to catch wine fraud, AI-based method can verify origin of wines Despite the unimaginable crime, the family remains committed to delivering high-quality wines to its customers. The Sparkmans appreciated the outpouring of support from the community of wineries, restaurants, retailers, and wine enthusiasts. (With inputs from agencies)

Mysterious cowboy vandalises US winery, ruins $600,000 worth of white wine. Watch

University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill has stepped down from her position in the wake of criticism surrounding her handling of antisemitism on campus.

This decision follows her testimony before a congressional hearing on the rise of antisemitism in universities after the Israel-Hamas conflict in October, reported Reuters.

Magill, along with Harvard University President Claudine Gay and Massachusetts Institute of Technology President Sally Kornbluth, faced backlash for their responses during the congressional hearing.

They were criticised for not providing a clear answer regarding whether calling for the genocide of Jews would violate their schools' codes of conduct.

Subsequent to the testimony, calls for Magill's resignation, along with Gay's, intensified. Magill expressed regret in a video statement, while Gay issued an apology on Friday (Dec 8).

The controversy revolves around allegations that the universities tolerated antisemitism, especially in statements made by pro-Palestinian demonstrators following the Israel-Hamas conflict.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-islamophobia-antisemitism-xenophobia-the-many-faces-of-hate-in-the-us-656914">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | Islamophobia, antisemitism, Xenophobia: The many faces of hate in the US</a>

<h2>Impact on Jewish community</h2>

Jewish students, families, and alumni accused the universities of tolerating antisemitism, pointing to incidents since the outbreak of the conflict.

The attack by Hamas on Israel triggered a significant increase in antisemitic incidents in the United States, as reported by the Anti-Defamation League.

Magill's resignation is effective immediately, and she has agreed to stay on until an interim president is appointed. Scott Bok, chair of the university's board of trustees, also stepped down.&nbsp;

"I write to share that President Liz Magill has voluntarily tendered her resignation as President of the University of Pennsylvania," Bok said in the announcement released by the university.&nbsp;

Magill will retain her position as a tenured faculty member at the university's law school.

Commenting on the resignation, Representative Elise Stefanik called it the "bare minimum" and urged Harvard and MIT to take similar actions.

Also watch |&nbsp;Harvard, Penn, MIT heads face Congress over campus Antisemitism

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/harvard-penn-mit-heads-face-congress-over-campus-antisemitism-666910/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

University of Pennsylvania student Eyal Yakoby, who has filed a lawsuit against the school for an insufficient response to antisemitism, sees Magill's resignation as a step toward a broader cultural change at the university.&nbsp;

"This has been something that myself and many alumni and fellow students, parents been working on for a while ... (but) this is just the first domino in a culture for many leaders including Chairman Bok who have allowed this to happen," Yakoby told Reuters.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-billionaire-bill-ackman-urges-suspensions-at-harvard-to-tackle-antisemitism-on-campus-655894">Also read |&nbsp;Bill Ackman writes to Harvard president, calls out antisemitism on campus</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill has stepped down from her position in the wake of criticism surrounding her handling of antisemitism on campus. This decision follows her testimony before a congressional hearing on the rise of antisemitism in universities after the Israel-Hamas conflict in October, reported Reuters.

University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill has stepped down from her position in the wake of criticism surrounding her handling of antisemitism on campus. This decision follows her testimony before a congressional hearing on the rise of antisemitism in universities after the Israel-Hamas conflict in October, reported Reuters. Magill, along with Harvard University President Claudine Gay and Massachusetts Institute of Technology President Sally Kornbluth, faced backlash for their responses during the congressional hearing. They were criticised for not providing a clear answer regarding whether calling for the genocide of Jews would violate their schools' codes of conduct. Subsequent to the testimony, calls for Magill's resignation, along with Gay's, intensified. Magill expressed regret in a video statement, while Gay issued an apology on Friday (Dec 8). The controversy revolves around allegations that the universities tolerated antisemitism, especially in statements made by pro-Palestinian demonstrators following the Israel-Hamas conflict. Also read | Explained | Islamophobia, antisemitism, Xenophobia: The many faces of hate in the US Impact on Jewish community Jewish students, families, and alumni accused the universities of tolerating antisemitism, pointing to incidents since the outbreak of the conflict. The attack by Hamas on Israel triggered a significant increase in antisemitic incidents in the United States, as reported by the Anti-Defamation League. Magill's resignation is effective immediately, and she has agreed to stay on until an interim president is appointed. Scott Bok, chair of the university's board of trustees, also stepped down. "I write to share that President Liz Magill has voluntarily tendered her resignation as President of the University of Pennsylvania," Bok said in the announcement released by the university. Magill will retain her position as a tenured faculty member at the university's law school. Commenting on the resignation, Representative Elise Stefanik called it the "bare minimum" and urged Harvard and MIT to take similar actions. Also watch | Harvard, Penn, MIT heads face Congress over campus Antisemitism University of Pennsylvania student Eyal Yakoby, who has filed a lawsuit against the school for an insufficient response to antisemitism, sees Magill's resignation as a step toward a broader cultural change at the university. "This has been something that myself and many alumni and fellow students, parents been working on for a while ... (but) this is just the first domino in a culture for many leaders including Chairman Bok who have allowed this to happen," Yakoby told Reuters. Also read | Bill Ackman writes to Harvard president, calls out antisemitism on campus (With inputs from agencies)

US: University of Pennsylvania president steps down amid antisemitism backlash on campus

The United States on Friday (Dec 8) vetoed the proposed demand by the other&nbsp;United Nations Security Council countries for an immediate ceasefire in the intense fighting between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, in a bid to shield its longtime ally.

Thirteen other members voted in favour of the draft resolution moved by the United Arab Emirates, while the United Kingdom abstained.&nbsp;

The voting came after United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a rare move, formally warned the 15-member council of a global threat from the war, which has now been going on for over two months.

"What is the message we are sending Palestinians if we cannot unite behind a call to halt the relentless bombardment of Gaza?," Deputy UAE U.N. Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab asked the council. 
 
"Indeed, what is the message we are sending civilians across the world who may find themselves in similar situations?"

"The United Arab Emirates is deeply disappointed," said the representative of the UAE. "Regrettably... this council is unable to demand a humanitarian ceasefire."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-will-run-again-in-russian-presidential-elections-next-march-667595">Putin will run again in Russian presidential elections next March</a>

<h2>US defends veto</h2>

The United States, defending its veto, said that the resolution still held a call for an unconditional ceasefire.

"This resolution still contains a call for an unconditional ceasefire... it would leave Hamas in place able to repeat what it did on October 7," said US deputy UN representative Robert Wood.

Wood further denounced the UAE stating that the draft resolution was a rushed, imbalanced text "that was divorced from reality, that would not move the needle forward on the ground in any concrete way."

"We do not support this resolution's call for an unsustainable ceasefire that will only plant the seeds for the next war," said Wood.

UK's UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward said that her country abstained because there was no denunciation of Hamas.

"Israel needs to be able to address the threat posed by Hamas and it needs to do so in a manner that abides by international humanitarian law so that such an attack can never be carried out again," she told the council.

Israel's UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan did not address the Security Council after the vote, but in a statement said: "A ceasefire will be possible only with the return of all the hostages and the destruction of Hamas."

Washington, being the permanent member of the Security Council, can veto any resolution.

Ahead of the vote, Guterres had said that "the brutality perpetrated by Hamas can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The United States on Friday (Dec 8) vetoed the proposed demand by the other United Nations Security Council countries for an immediate ceasefire in the intense fighting between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, in a bid to shield its longtime ally.

The United States on Friday (Dec 8) vetoed the proposed demand by the other United Nations Security Council countries for an immediate ceasefire in the intense fighting between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, in a bid to shield its longtime ally. Thirteen other members voted in favour of the draft resolution moved by the United Arab Emirates, while the United Kingdom abstained. The voting came after United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a rare move, formally warned the 15-member council of a global threat from the war, which has now been going on for over two months. "What is the message we are sending Palestinians if we cannot unite behind a call to halt the relentless bombardment of Gaza?," Deputy UAE U.N. Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab asked the council. "Indeed, what is the message we are sending civilians across the world who may find themselves in similar situations?" "The United Arab Emirates is deeply disappointed," said the representative of the UAE. "Regrettably... this council is unable to demand a humanitarian ceasefire." Also read: Putin will run again in Russian presidential elections next March US defends veto The United States, defending its veto, said that the resolution still held a call for an unconditional ceasefire. "This resolution still contains a call for an unconditional ceasefire... it would leave Hamas in place able to repeat what it did on October 7," said US deputy UN representative Robert Wood. Wood further denounced the UAE stating that the draft resolution was a rushed, imbalanced text "that was divorced from reality, that would not move the needle forward on the ground in any concrete way." "We do not support this resolution's call for an unsustainable ceasefire that will only plant the seeds for the next war," said Wood. UK's UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward said that her country abstained because there was no denunciation of Hamas. "Israel needs to be able to address the threat posed by Hamas and it needs to do so in a manner that abides by international humanitarian law so that such an attack can never be carried out again," she told the council. Israel's UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan did not address the Security Council after the vote, but in a statement said: "A ceasefire will be possible only with the return of all the hostages and the destruction of Hamas." Washington, being the permanent member of the Security Council, can veto any resolution. Ahead of the vote, Guterres had said that "the brutality perpetrated by Hamas can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people." (With inputs from agencies)

US vetoes UNSC resolution demanding immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, says it would ‘benefit’ Hamas

FBI director Christopher Wray will visit India next week at a time when the US government is investigating an alleged plot to assassinate Sikh radical Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil. India too has formed a high-level committee to probe the allegations. During Wray’s visit, India will reportedly present all evidence against Pannun to the US authorities. Will the U.S. take action against Pannun who is a designated terrorist in India and is using US soil to threaten India and its citizens?

Top FBI director heads to India, evidence against Pannun to be presented to FBI top boss

This week, The United States of America broke a grim record- it recorded the most number of mass shooting deaths in a year. What explains America's obsession with guns? Why does the number of guns in America outnumber the number of people living in the country? Why does a first-world country prioritize the Right to own firearms over the Right to Life? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

Gun Epidemic: US records most number of mass shooting deaths

Indian PM Narendra Modi retained his position as the world's most popular leader with an approval rating of 76 percent, as per the data released by US-based consultancy firm ‘Morning Consult’ on December 7. Mexico President Andrés Manuel López Obrador is ranked second on the list with an approval rating of 66 percent.

Indian PM Modi tops list of most popular global leaders with 76% rating

The United States restricted imports from three more Chinese companies, including COFCO Sugar Holding, over forced labour practices involving Uyghurs and other minorities in China, the U.S. government said on Friday.

US bars imports from 3 more Chinese companies over Uyghur forced labour

The attack is the first to be confirmed on the U.S. Embassy since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war. It's located in Baghdad’s heavily fortified green zone, which houses Iraqi government buildings and embassies, on the west bank of the Tigris river.

US Says bring those responsible for attack to justice

PM Modi once again ranked the most popular global leader

Iraqi PM says attacks on embassies undermine country's security

A group of Catholic nuns who are Smith & Wessen shareholders have filed a lawsuit against the gun maker for its marketing and sales of AR-15 style rifles. The company CEO has retaliated saying that it is a frivolous lawsuit.

Catholic nuns file lawsuit over AR-15 deaths

US condemns attack on US embassy in Baghdad

US bars imports from Chinese companies over Uyghur forced labour

A US federal judge in San Diego has officially approved a settlement and bars US officials from separating migrant families at the US borders.&nbsp;This comes months after the Biden administration on October 16 this year reached a settlement with migrant families who had been separated at the US-Mexico border during former President Donald Trump's tenure in office.

The settlement is now set to take effect from December 11, media reports said. The agreement does not give monetary compensation but provides support for those affected to apply for humanitarian protection, work permits, and housing assistance in the US. Families will also have access to mental health resources, as per reports.

With the settlement, the policy will not be able to revive for the next eight years. However, there are exceptions. For instance, cases when a parent is posing some sort of risk to their children.

The legal battle originated in 2018 when the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which advocates for the rights of immigrants,&nbsp;filed a lawsuit to challenge the Trump administration's "zero tolerance" policy. The policy is infamous for notoriously separating undocumented parents from their children upon crossing into the United States.

The policy led to the separation of over 5,000 families, causing widespread public outcry. Images of children held alone in detention facilities, some as young as 6 months old, fueled the controversy.

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<h2>Children separated from families&nbsp;</h2>

Although the Trump administration halted the policy,&nbsp;ACLU asserts that approximately a thousand children still remain separated.

Lee Gelernt, the ACLU's lead counsel, criticised the Trump administration's record-keeping, stating that "it appears that the Trump administration tracked property more diligently than they tracked the whereabouts of little children."

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas in the Biden administration told NPR in an interview that the current administration, unlike its predecessor, does not have plans to separate families. He underscored the importance of adhering to the country's "fundamental values" and vowed to "not deviate from that".&nbsp;

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<h2>Trump refrains to rule-out policy's reimplementation</h2>

Former President Donald Trump, who had previously advocated for the policy as an effective combat to contain immigration, has indicated that he would not rule out reinstating it if re-elected.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/northern-trust-sets-up-regional-headquarters-in-riyadh-667837">Northern Trust sets up regional headquarters in Riyadh</a>

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(With inputs from agencies)

A US federal judge in San Diego has officially approved a settlement and bars US officials from separating migrant families at the US borders. This comes months after the Biden administration on October 16 this year reached a settlement with migrant families who had been separated at the US-Mexico border during former President Donald Trump's tenure in office.

A US federal judge in San Diego has officially approved a settlement and bars US officials from separating migrant families at the US borders. This comes months after the Biden administration on October 16 this year reached a settlement with migrant families who had been separated at the US-Mexico border during former President Donald Trump's tenure in office. The settlement is now set to take effect from December 11, media reports said. The agreement does not give monetary compensation but provides support for those affected to apply for humanitarian protection, work permits, and housing assistance in the US. Families will also have access to mental health resources, as per reports. With the settlement, the policy will not be able to revive for the next eight years. However, there are exceptions. For instance, cases when a parent is posing some sort of risk to their children. The legal battle originated in 2018 when the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which advocates for the rights of immigrants, filed a lawsuit to challenge the Trump administration's "zero tolerance" policy. The policy is infamous for notoriously separating undocumented parents from their children upon crossing into the United States. The policy led to the separation of over 5,000 families, causing widespread public outcry. Images of children held alone in detention facilities, some as young as 6 months old, fueled the controversy. Also Read | US: Texas Supreme Court temporarily blocks woman's emergency abortion permission Children separated from families Although the Trump administration halted the policy, ACLU asserts that approximately a thousand children still remain separated. Lee Gelernt, the ACLU's lead counsel, criticised the Trump administration's record-keeping, stating that "it appears that the Trump administration tracked property more diligently than they tracked the whereabouts of little children." Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas in the Biden administration told NPR in an interview that the current administration, unlike its predecessor, does not have plans to separate families. He underscored the importance of adhering to the country's "fundamental values" and vowed to "not deviate from that". Also Read | US President Biden unveils $3 billion investment for LA-Las Vegas high-speed rail project Trump refrains to rule-out policy's reimplementation Former President Donald Trump, who had previously advocated for the policy as an effective combat to contain immigration, has indicated that he would not rule out reinstating it if re-elected. Watch | Northern Trust sets up regional headquarters in Riyadh × (With inputs from agencies)

Settlement bars separation of migrant families at US border, Trump-era policy scrapped for 8 yrs

An American teenager, who shot dead four of his classmates in 2021 at a high school outside Detroit, was on Friday (Dec 8) sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.

Ethan Crumbley had opened fire on Nov 30 2021 with a semi-automatic handgun that his father bought as a Christmas gift days before the incident occurred.

The shooting claimed the lives of four and injured six other students along with a teacher. Crumbley was 15 years old at the time of the shooting.&nbsp;

His parents have also been charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with the shooting.

This is one of the first cases in the United States that has held parents accountable for their child's school shooting.

"All I want is for the people I hurt to have a final sense of culpability that justice has somewhat been served and in a capacity that they can recognize it with. Any sentence that they ask for, I ask that you do impose it on me because I want them to be happy and I want them to feel secure and safe and I don't want them to worry another day," Crumbley said while addressing the court before sentencing.

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"Because I really am sorry for what I've done, for what I've taken. I cannot give it back, but I can try my best in the future to help other people and that is what I will do," he said.

Parents of the victims as well as survivors of the mass shooting also opened up on the impact of the incident.

"For the past two years our family has been navigating our way through complete hell," said Buck Myre, whose son Tate was among those killed.

"We miss Tate," Myre said. "Our family has a permanent hole in it that can never be fixed. Ever."

Crumbley pleaded guilty in October 2022 to bringing a 9mm Sig Sauer handgun to school and opening fire on fellow students.

(With inputs from agencies)

An American teenager, who shot dead four of his classmates in 2021 at a high school outside Detroit, was on Friday (Dec 8) sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.

An American teenager, who shot dead four of his classmates in 2021 at a high school outside Detroit, was on Friday (Dec 8) sentenced to life imprisonment without parole. Ethan Crumbley had opened fire on Nov 30 2021 with a semi-automatic handgun that his father bought as a Christmas gift days before the incident occurred. The shooting claimed the lives of four and injured six other students along with a teacher. Crumbley was 15 years old at the time of the shooting. His parents have also been charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with the shooting. This is one of the first cases in the United States that has held parents accountable for their child's school shooting. "All I want is for the people I hurt to have a final sense of culpability that justice has somewhat been served and in a capacity that they can recognize it with. Any sentence that they ask for, I ask that you do impose it on me because I want them to be happy and I want them to feel secure and safe and I don't want them to worry another day," Crumbley said while addressing the court before sentencing. Also read: EU member states and lawmakers strike deal on landmark AI law "Because I really am sorry for what I've done, for what I've taken. I cannot give it back, but I can try my best in the future to help other people and that is what I will do," he said. Parents of the victims as well as survivors of the mass shooting also opened up on the impact of the incident. "For the past two years our family has been navigating our way through complete hell," said Buck Myre, whose son Tate was among those killed. "We miss Tate," Myre said. "Our family has a permanent hole in it that can never be fixed. Ever." Crumbley pleaded guilty in October 2022 to bringing a 9mm Sig Sauer handgun to school and opening fire on fellow students. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Michigan school shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole

The Texas Supreme Court has temporarily halted a&nbsp;lower court decision that permitted a Texas woman to undergo an emergency abortion. This move comes as several states tighten their abortion laws raising concerns about access to reproductive healthcare.

Attorney general representing the state urged the court to overturn a judge's ruling that granted a woman the request for an abortion due to a severe anomaly in her pregnancy. The Supreme Court has decided to review the case, suspending the lower court's decision until a thorough evaluation is conducted.

The woman involved, Kate Cox, had initiated legal action against the state challenging its restrictive abortion measures. She sought a temporary restraining order from the court to enable her to proceed with the abortion.

In response to the Supreme Court's decision, Molly Duane, a senior staff attorney at the Center for Reproductive Rights, expressed concerns about potential delays in justice.

Duane laid emphasis about the urgency of medical care in such cases stating, "Kate is already 20 weeks pregnant. This is why people should not need to beg for healthcare in a court of law." "We fear that justice delayed will be justice denied," she added.&nbsp;

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<h2>Lower court grants request&nbsp;</h2>

The lower court, presided over by Judge Maya Guerra Gamble, a Democrat, granted Cox's request, highlighting the potential harm caused by the restrictive laws.

Judge Gamble remarked, "The idea that Miss Cox wants desperately to be a parent, and this law might actually cause her to lose that ability is shocking, and would be a genuine miscarriage of justice."

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<h2>Baby diagnosed with trisomy&nbsp;</h2>

Cox, who is 20 weeks pregnant with a baby&nbsp;diagnosed with trisomy 18, a condition with little chance of survival, got emotional as the judge delivered her decision, media reports said.&nbsp;

A temporary restraining order blocking the implementation of Texas' abortion bans, including the controversial SB8, remains in effect until December 20.

<h2>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/whatsapp-rolls-out-view-once-voice-message-feature-667816">WhatsApp rolls out `View Once` voice message feature</a></h2>

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Overnight, the Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton promptly filed an appeal, stressing the urgency of the matter.

The Centers for Reproductive Rights responded, condemning the state's petition as disregarding Cox's life, fertility, and the rule of law.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Texas Supreme Court has temporarily halted a lower court decision that permitted a Texas woman to undergo an emergency abortion. This move comes as several states tighten their abortion laws raising concerns about access to reproductive healthcare.

The Texas Supreme Court has temporarily halted a lower court decision that permitted a Texas woman to undergo an emergency abortion. This move comes as several states tighten their abortion laws raising concerns about access to reproductive healthcare. Attorney general representing the state urged the court to overturn a judge's ruling that granted a woman the request for an abortion due to a severe anomaly in her pregnancy. The Supreme Court has decided to review the case, suspending the lower court's decision until a thorough evaluation is conducted. The woman involved, Kate Cox, had initiated legal action against the state challenging its restrictive abortion measures. She sought a temporary restraining order from the court to enable her to proceed with the abortion. In response to the Supreme Court's decision, Molly Duane, a senior staff attorney at the Center for Reproductive Rights, expressed concerns about potential delays in justice. Duane laid emphasis about the urgency of medical care in such cases stating, "Kate is already 20 weeks pregnant. This is why people should not need to beg for healthcare in a court of law." "We fear that justice delayed will be justice denied," she added. Also Read | Canadian minister lashes out at learning institutions, raises financial requirements for Int'l students Lower court grants request The lower court, presided over by Judge Maya Guerra Gamble, a Democrat, granted Cox's request, highlighting the potential harm caused by the restrictive laws. Judge Gamble remarked, "The idea that Miss Cox wants desperately to be a parent, and this law might actually cause her to lose that ability is shocking, and would be a genuine miscarriage of justice." Also Read | PM Modi dominates Global Leader Approval ratings, tops the chart with impressive 76 percent Baby diagnosed with trisomy Cox, who is 20 weeks pregnant with a baby diagnosed with trisomy 18, a condition with little chance of survival, got emotional as the judge delivered her decision, media reports said. A temporary restraining order blocking the implementation of Texas' abortion bans, including the controversial SB8, remains in effect until December 20. Watch | WhatsApp rolls out `View Once` voice message feature × Overnight, the Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton promptly filed an appeal, stressing the urgency of the matter. The Centers for Reproductive Rights responded, condemning the state's petition as disregarding Cox's life, fertility, and the rule of law. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Texas Supreme Court temporarily blocks woman's emergency abortion permission

In another display of camaraderie between Moscow and New Delhi amidst the conflict in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin commended Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In other news, a&nbsp;Russian cargo plane was observed detonating in the sky shortly after it purportedly departed from Ulan-Ude airport in the Buryatia region, over 5,600 km to the east of Moscow. Additionally,&nbsp;the Danish parliament approved legislation that criminalises the act of burning copies of the Quran in public places, whether carried out by an individual or a group.

Click on the headlines for more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-putin-praises-india-says-pm-modi-guarantor-of-stronger-moscow-delhi-ties-667297">Putin praises India, says PM Modi 'guarantor' of stronger Moscow-Delhi ties</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/07/397843-untitled-design-2023-12-07t201421982.png?imwidth=3840" />

Russia's President Vladimir Putin praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in yet another show of bilateral bonhomie between Moscow and New Delhi amid war in Ukraine. Putin, who had visited India in December 2021 just a few weeks before he announced an offensive on Ukraine in February 2022, said that the relations between Russia and India are "consistently developing in all areas".&nbsp;

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Climate financing remains one of the major impediments in tackling the effects of climate crisis around the world. Combating climate change and its consequences would need an enormous amount of money — much more than the world has budgeted.&nbsp;

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A Russian cargo plane was seen exploding in the sky minutes after it reportedly took off from Ulan-Ude airport in Buryatia region, over 5,600 km east of Moscow.&nbsp;

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/07/397844-north-korea.png?imwidth=3840" />

Hundreds of North Koreans apparently "disappeared" after they were repatriated from China and sent back to the hermit kingdom, where they were expected to face imprisonment, a rights group said Thursday (Dec 7).&nbsp;

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Russian lawmakers on Thursday (Dec 7) moved Vladimir Putin a step closer to a fifth term in office as they set the date of the country's 2024 presidential election for March 17. A decree to approve the date was voted unanimously by the members of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danish-parliament-passes-bill-banning-quran-burnings-angering-free-speech-absolutists-667302">Danish parliament passes bill banning Quran burnings, angering free speech absolutists</a>

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The Danish parliament on Thursday (Dec 7) passed a bill that makes it illegal for an individual or group to burn copies of the Koran in public places. The passing of the legislation comes after the Scandinavian nation received extreme backlash from the Muslim world over the desecration of Islam's holy book.&nbsp;

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In a rare and unprecedented move, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter on Wednesday (Dec 6). This decision is aimed at formally warning the UN Security Council about the global threat emanating from Israel's ongoing military operations in Gaza.

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Japan's parliament has made a groundbreaking decision to legalise medicines derived from cannabis. This change, approved in the upper house, allows for the use of cannabis-based medical products, as reported by the South China Morning Post.

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/07/397828-untitled-design-2023-12-07t183105005.png?imwidth=3840" />

Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year prison term for the human rights abuses during his decade-long rule in the 1990s, has been released from a prison in capital Lima.

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/21/394383-succession-2023-11-21t015130871.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has urged his Conservative party members to unite behind his plan to send the illegal migrants to Rwanda as certain lawmakers protest the move saying it did not go far enough.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In another display of camaraderie between Moscow and New Delhi amidst the conflict in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin commended Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In another display of camaraderie between Moscow and New Delhi amidst the conflict in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin commended Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In other news, a Russian cargo plane was observed detonating in the sky shortly after it purportedly departed from Ulan-Ude airport in the Buryatia region, over 5,600 km to the east of Moscow. Additionally, the Danish parliament approved legislation that criminalises the act of burning copies of the Quran in public places, whether carried out by an individual or a group. Click on the headlines for more. Putin praises India, says PM Modi 'guarantor' of stronger Moscow-Delhi ties Russia's President Vladimir Putin praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in yet another show of bilateral bonhomie between Moscow and New Delhi amid war in Ukraine. Putin, who had visited India in December 2021 just a few weeks before he announced an offensive on Ukraine in February 2022, said that the relations between Russia and India are "consistently developing in all areas". Climate financing: Progress made at COP28, but is it enough? Climate financing remains one of the major impediments in tackling the effects of climate crisis around the world. Combating climate change and its consequences would need an enormous amount of money — much more than the world has budgeted. Video: China-bound Russian plane goes up in flames moments after terrifying explosion A Russian cargo plane was seen exploding in the sky minutes after it reportedly took off from Ulan-Ude airport in Buryatia region, over 5,600 km east of Moscow. Hundreds of North Korean defectors were sent back by China...then they disappeared: Report Hundreds of North Koreans apparently "disappeared" after they were repatriated from China and sent back to the hermit kingdom, where they were expected to face imprisonment, a rights group said Thursday (Dec 7). Putin closes in on fifth term as Russian lawmakers set date for 2024 presidential election Russian lawmakers on Thursday (Dec 7) moved Vladimir Putin a step closer to a fifth term in office as they set the date of the country's 2024 presidential election for March 17. A decree to approve the date was voted unanimously by the members of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly. Danish parliament passes bill banning Quran burnings, angering free speech absolutists The Danish parliament on Thursday (Dec 7) passed a bill that makes it illegal for an individual or group to burn copies of the Koran in public places. The passing of the legislation comes after the Scandinavian nation received extreme backlash from the Muslim world over the desecration of Islam's holy book. Explained | UN Chief Guterres activates Article 99: Can it bring peace to Israel-Hamas war? In a rare and unprecedented move, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter on Wednesday (Dec 6). This decision is aimed at formally warning the UN Security Council about the global threat emanating from Israel's ongoing military operations in Gaza. Japan approves medical cannabis use, toughens recreational marijuana ban in landmark drug law revision Japan's parliament has made a groundbreaking decision to legalise medicines derived from cannabis. This change, approved in the upper house, allows for the use of cannabis-based medical products, as reported by the South China Morning Post. Watch: Peru's former president gets out of prison without completing sentence for 1991 massacre Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year prison term for the human rights abuses during his decade-long rule in the 1990s, has been released from a prison in capital Lima. 'It will work': Rishi Sunak pleads conservatives to support his Rwanda asylum plan British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has urged his Conservative party members to unite behind his plan to send the illegal migrants to Rwanda as certain lawmakers protest the move saying it did not go far enough.

Top 10 world news: Putin praises India, Denmark parliament bans public Quran burnings, and more

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