<p>Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials. This comes a day after major shipping firms announced that they would be avoiding the Suez Canal, a key trade route between Europe and Asia, a move which could potentially affect global trade.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Will US respond to Houthi attacks?</strong></h2>

<p>Over the last few weeks, the Yemen-based Houthis have launched a number of attacks against commercial ships passing through the Red Sea amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attacks have mostly been thwarted by the American forces in the region but given the rise of such incidents, the US may be planning to ramp up its forces to now retaliate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Houthi Red Sea attacks: Iran warns against proposed US-backed Red Sea force</strong></p>

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<p>The Pentagon has in recent days moved the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group from the Persian Gulf into the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Yemen, to support a potential US response to attacks, one of the American officials told Politico on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report citing officials also said that the US military has provided options to commanders to strike the Houthis. However, President Joe Biden’s administration is reluctant to respond to these attacks amid fear of provoking Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the Pentagon itself had reportedly recommended against it but given the significant uptick in attacks, US officials may be looking to change their tactics.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanker-in-bab-al-mandab-strait-attacked-by-missiles-from-houthi-controlled-yemen-gunmen-on-speedboats-669295">Tanker carrying jet fuel from India hit by missiles from Houthi-controlled Yemen, gunmen on speedboats</a></strong></p>

<p>National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is in the midst of a trip to the Middle East, said Houthis were a “material threat” to shipping and commerce in the region but the ultimate responsibility for the attacks lies with Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Recent attacks</h2>

<p>As the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages on, Houthis who have expressed support for the Palestinian militant group have issued multiple warnings saying that they would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned international shipping companies against dealing in Israeli ports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Saturday (Dec 16) morning, the US and United Kingdom navy vessels shot down suspected attack drones which were said to have been targeting shipping vessels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>American destroyer USS Carney shot down 14 one-way attack drones launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, said the US Central Command. HMS Diamond, a British destroyer, which was recently deployed in the Red Sea to help protect commercial shipping, also shot down one suspected Houthi drone.</p>

<p>This was a day after two cargo ships in the Red Sea had been attacked by missiles and drones fired from a Houthi-controlled part of Yemen. The attacks took place near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key route for global trade.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-confirms-houthis-hijacked-ship-in-red-sea-but-says-its-not-israeli-vessel-660542">IDF confirms Houthis hijacked India-bound ship in Red Sea, but says it's not Israeli vessel</a></strong></p>

<p>One ship was also attacked by a suspected Houthi drone but the Iran-backed group did not claim responsibility for it. “We are aware that something launched from a Houthi-controlled region of Yemen struck this vessel which was damaged, and there was a report of a fire,” a US military official told AFP referring to the drone attack.</p>

<h2><strong>Shipping firms to avoid Suez Canal&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Major shipping firms, including MSC, the world’s biggest container shipping line, on Saturday said that they will avoid the Suez Canal in light of the attacks in the Red Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Denmark’s AP Moller-Maersk, on Friday (Dec 15) said that they are pausing all its container shipments through Bab al-Mandab until further notice, Swiss-based MSC and French shipping group CMA CGM followed suit the next day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials.

Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials. This comes a day after major shipping firms announced that they would be avoiding the Suez Canal, a key trade route between Europe and Asia, a move which could potentially affect global trade. Will US respond to Houthi attacks? Over the last few weeks, the Yemen-based Houthis have launched a number of attacks against commercial ships passing through the Red Sea amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. The attacks have mostly been thwarted by the American forces in the region but given the rise of such incidents, the US may be planning to ramp up its forces to now retaliate. WATCH | Houthi Red Sea attacks: Iran warns against proposed US-backed Red Sea force The Pentagon has in recent days moved the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group from the Persian Gulf into the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Yemen, to support a potential US response to attacks, one of the American officials told Politico on the condition of anonymity. The report citing officials also said that the US military has provided options to commanders to strike the Houthis. However, President Joe Biden’s administration is reluctant to respond to these attacks amid fear of provoking Iran. Earlier, the Pentagon itself had reportedly recommended against it but given the significant uptick in attacks, US officials may be looking to change their tactics. ALSO READ | Tanker carrying jet fuel from India hit by missiles from Houthi-controlled Yemen, gunmen on speedboats National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is in the midst of a trip to the Middle East, said Houthis were a “material threat” to shipping and commerce in the region but the ultimate responsibility for the attacks lies with Iran. Recent attacks As the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages on, Houthis who have expressed support for the Palestinian militant group have issued multiple warnings saying that they would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned international shipping companies against dealing in Israeli ports. On Saturday (Dec 16) morning, the US and United Kingdom navy vessels shot down suspected attack drones which were said to have been targeting shipping vessels. American destroyer USS Carney shot down 14 one-way attack drones launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, said the US Central Command. HMS Diamond, a British destroyer, which was recently deployed in the Red Sea to help protect commercial shipping, also shot down one suspected Houthi drone. This was a day after two cargo ships in the Red Sea had been attacked by missiles and drones fired from a Houthi-controlled part of Yemen. The attacks took place near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key route for global trade. ALSO READ | IDF confirms Houthis hijacked India-bound ship in Red Sea, but says it's not Israeli vessel One ship was also attacked by a suspected Houthi drone but the Iran-backed group did not claim responsibility for it. “We are aware that something launched from a Houthi-controlled region of Yemen struck this vessel which was damaged, and there was a report of a fire,” a US military official told AFP referring to the drone attack. Shipping firms to avoid Suez Canal Major shipping firms, including MSC, the world’s biggest container shipping line, on Saturday said that they will avoid the Suez Canal in light of the attacks in the Red Sea. Denmark’s AP Moller-Maersk, on Friday (Dec 15) said that they are pausing all its container shipments through Bab al-Mandab until further notice, Swiss-based MSC and French shipping group CMA CGM followed suit the next day. (With inputs from agencies)

US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report

The American Democrat Shamaine Daniels Congressional Campaign has been aided by an AI-powered volunteer. Now using an AI poll campaigner who's capable of speaking about 20 different languages is believed to diversify water outreach.

AI powered campaigns debut in US politics

In a big set back for crypto firms in the united states, the US Securities and exchange commission has denied a petition by coinbase, which sought new rules for the digital asset sector. The crypto exchange is all set to challenge this decision in court.

US Securities regulator says no to crypto rules

A significant US aircraft carrier has departed the vital Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, according to the head of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy. Under the guise of averting a possible escalation, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier has been dispatched to the region, and Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri stated on Friday that the IRGC naval forces were keeping a careful eye on it.

IRGC: US aircraft carrier Eisenhower exits Strait of Hormuz, Persian Gulf

The United States is facing a crisis like never before and this has to do with homelessness as housing in the United States has become increasingly unaffordable in the last few years. According to an annual survey taken by the Department of Housing and Urban Development of the number of unhoused people in the United States has now jumped by nearly 12% early this year.

Over 70,000 people in the US go homeless 2023

Donald Trump's longtime attorney, former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, was ordered by a jury on Friday to pay $148 million in damages for falsely accusing two poll workers in Georgia of engaging in election fraud, according to US media.

Trump's ex-lawyer Rudy Giuliani hit with $148 million fine

The government reported in the Lok Sabha on Friday that twenty-eight Indian students were deported from the United States to India this year. According to V Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs, the US authorities have been notified on a regular basis of the government's concerns on these kinds of incidents.

28 Indian students deported from US in 2023: Centre tells Lok Sabha

The family of Nikhil Gupta, accused of conspiring to murder alleged Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, has filed a petition in the Supreme Court of India. The plea seeks the Indian government’s intervention for his release from a Czech Republic prison. The family claims that Gupta was detained illegally in the Czech Republic and is facing extradition to the United States.

Nikhil Gupta, arrested in failed plot to kill Gurpatwant Pannun will be extracted from Prague to US

<p>Former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani has decided against testifying in his defamation damages trial, where two Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, are seeking millions in damages over conspiracy theories spread by Giuliani post-2020 election.</p>

<p>Giuliani already owes over $230,000 in defamation damages after being found liable. The trial takes place as Trump awaits his own criminal trial in Washington, DC.</p>

<p>A spokesperson for Giuliani told&nbsp;CNN that the former New York mayor will not testify in the defamation damages trial, signalling a strategic decision amid impactful testimonies from the plaintiffs, Freeman and Moss. Giuliani's absence from the witness stand follows the emotional accounts of the election workers, who detailed the severe repercussions they faced due to the spread of lies about them.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-prosecution-in-jan-6-riots-may-come-sooner-than-expected-heres-why-669385">Also read |&nbsp;Trump's prosecution in Jan 6 riots may come sooner than expected. Here's why</a></p>

<h2><strong>Plaintiffs' gut-wrenching testimonies</strong></h2>

<p>Freeman and Moss provided gut-wrenching testimonies over two days, describing the emotional toll and life-altering consequences of Giuliani's false statements.</p>

<p>Freeman said she received a&nbsp;flood of threats with racist and threatening messages that left her&nbsp;shaken. The emotional impact on Moss was also evident as she described feeling trapped and helpless.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Giuliani has already been found liable for defamation and owes Freeman and Moss over $230,000 after failing to respond to parts of their lawsuit.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-four-reasons-why-donald-trump-might-win-2024-presidential-elections-669267">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | Donald Trump might still win 2024 presidential elections. Here are some reasons</a></p>

<p>His attempt to argue that his statements did not cause harm was contradicted by the compelling testimonies from the plaintiffs.</p>

<p>Giuliani conceded in July that he made defamatory statements but contended that his comments on voter fraud were protected speech.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Special counsel Jack Smith challenges 'Presidential Immunity' of Donald Trump</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/special-counsel-jack-smith-challenges-presidential-immunity-of-donald-trump-668727/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Giuliani's attorney, Joseph Sibley, acknowledged some harm but argued that the damages sought were excessive, likening it to "the civil equivalent of the death penalty."</p>

<p>Sibley said&nbsp;that the jury must consider an appropriate amount in line with Giuliani's conduct, challenging the extent of damages sought by the plaintiffs.</p>

<p><em>(With input from agencies)</em></p>


Former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani has decided against testifying in his defamation damages trial, where two Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, are seeking millions in damages over conspiracy theories spread by Giuliani post-2020 election.

Former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani has decided against testifying in his defamation damages trial, where two Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, are seeking millions in damages over conspiracy theories spread by Giuliani post-2020 election. Giuliani already owes over $230,000 in defamation damages after being found liable. The trial takes place as Trump awaits his own criminal trial in Washington, DC. A spokesperson for Giuliani told CNN that the former New York mayor will not testify in the defamation damages trial, signalling a strategic decision amid impactful testimonies from the plaintiffs, Freeman and Moss. Giuliani's absence from the witness stand follows the emotional accounts of the election workers, who detailed the severe repercussions they faced due to the spread of lies about them. Also read | Trump's prosecution in Jan 6 riots may come sooner than expected. Here's why Plaintiffs' gut-wrenching testimonies Freeman and Moss provided gut-wrenching testimonies over two days, describing the emotional toll and life-altering consequences of Giuliani's false statements. Freeman said she received a flood of threats with racist and threatening messages that left her shaken. The emotional impact on Moss was also evident as she described feeling trapped and helpless. Giuliani has already been found liable for defamation and owes Freeman and Moss over $230,000 after failing to respond to parts of their lawsuit. Also read | Explained | Donald Trump might still win 2024 presidential elections. Here are some reasons His attempt to argue that his statements did not cause harm was contradicted by the compelling testimonies from the plaintiffs. Giuliani conceded in July that he made defamatory statements but contended that his comments on voter fraud were protected speech. Also watch | Special counsel Jack Smith challenges 'Presidential Immunity' of Donald Trump Giuliani's attorney, Joseph Sibley, acknowledged some harm but argued that the damages sought were excessive, likening it to "the civil equivalent of the death penalty." Sibley said that the jury must consider an appropriate amount in line with Giuliani's conduct, challenging the extent of damages sought by the plaintiffs. (With input from agencies)

Former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani opts not to testify in Georgia defamation trial

The U.S. Is a divided house when it comes to supporting its friend in West Asia - Israel. It looks like President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, do not see eye to eye. Reports say Kamala Harris, is forcing the White House to adopt a more sympathetic stance toward Palestinians, publicly.

Gravitas | Biden, Kamala Harris at odds over Palestinians?

<p>A single-engine Diamond DA-40 aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing on Interstate 26 in Asheville, North Carolina, around 8:15 pm (local time) on Thursday (Dec 14).&nbsp;Visuals that went viral on social media showed aircraft in flames. Two people were reportedly injured in the incident and subsequently hospitalised.</p>

<p>Authorities from the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office reported that the two individuals on board were promptly taken to a local hospital. Their identities are yet to be disclosed.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Preliminary reports in the US media indicate that the pilot of the Diamond DA-40 communicated problems with the aircraft, seeking assistance just moments before the emergency landing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The exact cause of fire remains unclear. But the landing caused significant traffic disruptions on the highway for several hours.</p>

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<p>Emergency response teams, including Ashville Regional Airport fire trucks, Skyland Fire and Rescue, North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Asheville Police Department, and the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office, rushed to the scene to address the unfolding crisis.</p>

<p>Eyewitness videos captured the harrowing scene, depicting the plane engulfed in flames as traffic inched along the highway. Once extinguished, the aircraft was described as "unrecognisable," with a wing detached from the charred wreckage.</p>

<p>The impact of the emergency landing reverberated beyond the immediate crash site, causing power surges and outages in nearby buildings and homes.</p>

<p>Allen Morgan, a Buncombe County Emergency Medical Services supervisor, reassured the public, stating, "There does not appear to be any life-threatening injuries", ABC News reported.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the condition of those hospitalised?</strong></h2>

<p>The condition of the two hospitalised individuals remains unknown at the time of filing this report. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Aviation Consumer said that the Diamond DA-40 airplane involved is considered one of the more preferably-used piston singles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Investigations into the incident are underway as authorities work to determine the cause of the emergency landing and subsequent fire.</p>


A single-engine Diamond DA-40 aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing on Interstate 26 in Asheville, North Carolina, around 8:15 pm (local time) on Thursday (Dec 14).

A single-engine Diamond DA-40 aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing on Interstate 26 in Asheville, North Carolina, around 8:15 pm (local time) on Thursday (Dec 14). Visuals that went viral on social media showed aircraft in flames. Two people were reportedly injured in the incident and subsequently hospitalised. Authorities from the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office reported that the two individuals on board were promptly taken to a local hospital. Their identities are yet to be disclosed. What happened? Preliminary reports in the US media indicate that the pilot of the Diamond DA-40 communicated problems with the aircraft, seeking assistance just moments before the emergency landing. The exact cause of fire remains unclear. But the landing caused significant traffic disruptions on the highway for several hours. × Emergency response teams, including Ashville Regional Airport fire trucks, Skyland Fire and Rescue, North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Asheville Police Department, and the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office, rushed to the scene to address the unfolding crisis. Eyewitness videos captured the harrowing scene, depicting the plane engulfed in flames as traffic inched along the highway. Once extinguished, the aircraft was described as "unrecognisable," with a wing detached from the charred wreckage. The impact of the emergency landing reverberated beyond the immediate crash site, causing power surges and outages in nearby buildings and homes. Allen Morgan, a Buncombe County Emergency Medical Services supervisor, reassured the public, stating, "There does not appear to be any life-threatening injuries", ABC News reported. What is the condition of those hospitalised? The condition of the two hospitalised individuals remains unknown at the time of filing this report. The Aviation Consumer said that the Diamond DA-40 airplane involved is considered one of the more preferably-used piston singles. Investigations into the incident are underway as authorities work to determine the cause of the emergency landing and subsequent fire.

Video: Airplane makes emergency landing on US highway, catches fire

The United States is urging Israel to move towards surgical operations against Hamas as opposed to its current broad ground campaign. The shift in the strategy was suggested by the White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.

Jake Sullivan urges Israel to shift to a more targeted action

Israel-Hamas war: US pushes for surgical operations in Gaza

<p>In the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, a recent US intelligence assessment reportedly disclosed&nbsp;that nearly 45 per cent&nbsp;of the air-to-ground munitions utilised by Israel in Gaza since October 7 are unguided,&nbsp;referred to as "dumb bombs".</p>

<p>This revelation follows <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-gospel-israel-puts-ai-to-work-in-selecting-targets-in-war-torn-gaza-665180">reports </a>suggesting that a senior Israeli intelligence officer stressed the goal of "killing as many Hamas operatives as possible," without a strict mandate to avoid Palestinian injuries, indicating a flexible approach.</p>

<p>The Office of the Director of National Intelligence compiled the assessment, reportedly revealing that out of the 29,000 air-to-ground munitions used, 40-45 per cent were unguided, contrasting with precision-guided munitions.</p>

<p>This report also coincides with US President Joe Biden urging Israel to exercise caution and minimise civilian casualties in Gaza instead of the indiscriminate bombardment on the besieged territory.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/temu-sues-shein-alleging-mafia-style-tactics-from-the-ultra-cheap-chinese-e-commerce-retailer-669932">Temu sues Shein alleging 'mafia-style' tactics from the ultra-cheap Chinese e-commerce retailer</a></p>

<p>Unguided munitions, also known as free-fall bombs, lack guidance systems to actively adjust their trajectory, posing a greater threat to civilians in densely populated areas like Gaza. A CNN report suggested&nbsp;that the high use of unguided munitions may contribute to the escalating civilian death toll, a worrying development for the international community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/cop28-breakthrough-world-unites-to-shift-from-fossil-fuels-in-historic-climate-accord-669924">COP28 Breakthrough: World unites to shift from fossil fuels in historic climate accord</a></p>

<p>In response to the report, IDF spokesperson Nir Dinar reportedly declined to comment on the type of munitions used.</p>

<p>Major Keren Hajioff, an Israeli spokesperson, stressed&nbsp;the commitment to international law and minimising harm to civilians forced into the role of human shields by Hamas.</p>

<p>However, experts, including Brian Castner from Amnesty International, reportedly expressed concerns, questioning Israel's claim of minimising civilian casualties if unguided munitions are being used extensively.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-to-operate-drone-bases-in-pakistan-669677">US to operate drone bases in Pakistan?</a></strong></p>

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<p>“I’m extremely surprised and concerned,” said Castner. “It’s bad enough to be using the weapons when they are precisely hitting their targets. It is a massive civilian harm problem if they do not have that accuracy, and if you can’t even give a benefit of the doubt that that the weapon is actually landing where the Israeli forces intended to.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>


In the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, a recent US intelligence assessment reportedly disclosed that nearly 45 per cent of the air-to-ground munitions utilised by Israel in Gaza since October 7 are unguided, referred to as "dumb bombs".

In the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, a recent US intelligence assessment reportedly disclosed that nearly 45 per cent of the air-to-ground munitions utilised by Israel in Gaza since October 7 are unguided, referred to as "dumb bombs". This revelation follows reports suggesting that a senior Israeli intelligence officer stressed the goal of "killing as many Hamas operatives as possible," without a strict mandate to avoid Palestinian injuries, indicating a flexible approach. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence compiled the assessment, reportedly revealing that out of the 29,000 air-to-ground munitions used, 40-45 per cent were unguided, contrasting with precision-guided munitions. This report also coincides with US President Joe Biden urging Israel to exercise caution and minimise civilian casualties in Gaza instead of the indiscriminate bombardment on the besieged territory. Also Read | Temu sues Shein alleging 'mafia-style' tactics from the ultra-cheap Chinese e-commerce retailer Unguided munitions, also known as free-fall bombs, lack guidance systems to actively adjust their trajectory, posing a greater threat to civilians in densely populated areas like Gaza. A CNN report suggested that the high use of unguided munitions may contribute to the escalating civilian death toll, a worrying development for the international community. Also Read | COP28 Breakthrough: World unites to shift from fossil fuels in historic climate accord In response to the report, IDF spokesperson Nir Dinar reportedly declined to comment on the type of munitions used. Major Keren Hajioff, an Israeli spokesperson, stressed the commitment to international law and minimising harm to civilians forced into the role of human shields by Hamas. However, experts, including Brian Castner from Amnesty International, reportedly expressed concerns, questioning Israel's claim of minimising civilian casualties if unguided munitions are being used extensively. Watch | US to operate drone bases in Pakistan? × “I’m extremely surprised and concerned,” said Castner. “It’s bad enough to be using the weapons when they are precisely hitting their targets. It is a massive civilian harm problem if they do not have that accuracy, and if you can’t even give a benefit of the doubt that that the weapon is actually landing where the Israeli forces intended to.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

45pc of Israeli air-to-ground munitions in Gaza are 'dumb bombs', reveals report

Brite semiconductor emerges as a key player in this delicate balance between global tech interests and geopolitical tensions. Part-owned by China's sanctioned chipmaker, mic, and equipped with American financial backing, Brite navigates complex terrain, offering chip design services to multiple Chinese military suppliers.

Brite semiconductor's dual role in Chinese military & US Tech investments

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a high-stakes case over access to an abortion pill, in the biggest reproductive rights case since the end of Roe.

US: Apex court to decide fate of abortion pill, mifepristone | WION Newspoint

If American Presidential polls are to be conducted today then President Biden would manage to beat former President Donald Trump in seven swing states but Trump would still emerge as an overall winner.

US: Latest survey finds President Biden lagging behind former President Trump

The U.S.'s recent vote against a UN resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, contrary to the global consensus, marks a significant departure from its traditional stance. This development, amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, signals a pivotal moment in U.S.-Israel relations. President Biden's criticism of Israel's post-war governance approach and Prime Minister Netanyahu's skepticism about the Palestinian Authority's capabilities highlight deep-rooted political differences.

Gravitas | Rift between U.S President Joe Biden & Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu widens over Gaza

<p>The United States House of Representatives, on Wednesday (Dec 13) voted to formally authorise its ongoing impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden over his son Hunter’s controversial international dealings even though they are yet to find evidence of wrongdoing by the Democratic incumbent. Biden has since slammed the vote as a “baseless political stunt".</p>

<h2><strong>About the vote</strong></h2>

<p>The GOP-led House voted 221-212 along party lines to approve the probe with all Republicans voting in favour and all Democrats voting against it. The inquiry is examining whether Biden improperly benefited from his 53-year-old son Hunter Biden’s foreign business dealings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The vote came hours after the US president’s son refused a call to testify behind closed doors and defied a subpoena.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While House Republicans are yet to provide evidence of corruption. The Democratic-led Senate is unlikely to convict the incumbent president even if the inquiry did lead to an actual impeachment trial.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-to-vote-on-formalising-bidens-impeachment-inquiry-on-wednesday-report-668862">US House to vote on formalising Biden's impeachment inquiry on Wednesday: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The vote also took place as the House was due to leave Washington for a year-end holiday break of more than three weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>House Republicans have accused the incumbent Democratic president and his family of improperly profiting from policy decisions that Biden made when he was serving as the vice president during President Barack Obama’s administration between 2009 and 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden slams ‘baseless political stunt’</strong></h2>

<p>The incumbent president swiftly denounced the vote and said, “Instead of doing their job on the urgent work that needs to be done, they (Republicans) are choosing to waste time on this baseless political stunt that even Republicans in Congress admit is not supported by facts.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No evidence&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The effort which will almost certainly fail to remove Biden from office has time and time again been dismissed by the White House and said that the inquiry is unsubstantiated by facts and politically motivated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-not-sure-if-hed-be-seeking-reelection-next-year-if-not-for-rival-trump-666650">Biden says 'not sure' if he'd be seeking re-election next year if Trump wasn't his rival</a></strong></p>

<p>Republicans ramped up efforts to impeach Biden ahead of the 2024 presidential election where he might potentially face a rematch with his Republican predecessor, Donald Trump who became the first US president in American history to be impeached twice and is currently preparing for four upcoming criminal trials.</p>

<p>The Wednesday vote comes three months after Republicans informally began the probe when then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy directed a House committee to open an impeachment inquiry, which alone would not be a required step to remove a president or other official from office.</p>

<p>However, the recent vote and authorisation could give Republicans more legal authority to force the Biden administration to cooperate. So far, Republicans have highlighted Hunter’s business ventures in Ukraine and China when Biden was the VP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-house-republican-mccarthy-calls-for-prez-bidens-impeachment-inquiry-white-house-slams-move-635383">US House Speaker McCarthy orders Prez Biden's impeachment inquiry; White House slams move</a></strong></p>

<p>They have also turned up evidence that the 53-year-old son of the incumbent president led clients to believe that he could provide access to the vice president’s office, but they are yet to provide any proof that Biden himself took any official action to help those businesses or benefited financially from them.</p>

<p>“There is no evidence to support the allegations that my father was financially involved in my business because it did not happen,” said Hunter. On Monday (Dec 11), he defied a committee subpoena to testify behind closed doors, saying that he would only testify in public amid fears that his words would otherwise be misrepresented.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States House of Representatives, on Wednesday (Dec 13) voted to formally authorise its ongoing impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden over his son Hunter’s controversial international dealings even though they are yet to find evidence of wrongdoing by the Democratic incumbent.

The United States House of Representatives, on Wednesday (Dec 13) voted to formally authorise its ongoing impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden over his son Hunter’s controversial international dealings even though they are yet to find evidence of wrongdoing by the Democratic incumbent. Biden has since slammed the vote as a “baseless political stunt". About the vote The GOP-led House voted 221-212 along party lines to approve the probe with all Republicans voting in favour and all Democrats voting against it. The inquiry is examining whether Biden improperly benefited from his 53-year-old son Hunter Biden’s foreign business dealings. The vote came hours after the US president’s son refused a call to testify behind closed doors and defied a subpoena. While House Republicans are yet to provide evidence of corruption. The Democratic-led Senate is unlikely to convict the incumbent president even if the inquiry did lead to an actual impeachment trial. ALSO READ | US House to vote on formalising Biden's impeachment inquiry on Wednesday: Report The vote also took place as the House was due to leave Washington for a year-end holiday break of more than three weeks. House Republicans have accused the incumbent Democratic president and his family of improperly profiting from policy decisions that Biden made when he was serving as the vice president during President Barack Obama’s administration between 2009 and 2017. Biden slams ‘baseless political stunt’ The incumbent president swiftly denounced the vote and said, “Instead of doing their job on the urgent work that needs to be done, they (Republicans) are choosing to waste time on this baseless political stunt that even Republicans in Congress admit is not supported by facts.” No evidence The effort which will almost certainly fail to remove Biden from office has time and time again been dismissed by the White House and said that the inquiry is unsubstantiated by facts and politically motivated. ALSO READ | Biden says 'not sure' if he'd be seeking re-election next year if Trump wasn't his rival Republicans ramped up efforts to impeach Biden ahead of the 2024 presidential election where he might potentially face a rematch with his Republican predecessor, Donald Trump who became the first US president in American history to be impeached twice and is currently preparing for four upcoming criminal trials. The Wednesday vote comes three months after Republicans informally began the probe when then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy directed a House committee to open an impeachment inquiry, which alone would not be a required step to remove a president or other official from office. However, the recent vote and authorisation could give Republicans more legal authority to force the Biden administration to cooperate. So far, Republicans have highlighted Hunter’s business ventures in Ukraine and China when Biden was the VP. ALSO READ | US House Speaker McCarthy orders Prez Biden's impeachment inquiry; White House slams move They have also turned up evidence that the 53-year-old son of the incumbent president led clients to believe that he could provide access to the vice president’s office, but they are yet to provide any proof that Biden himself took any official action to help those businesses or benefited financially from them. “There is no evidence to support the allegations that my father was financially involved in my business because it did not happen,” said Hunter. On Monday (Dec 11), he defied a committee subpoena to testify behind closed doors, saying that he would only testify in public amid fears that his words would otherwise be misrepresented. (With inputs from agencies)

Republican-led House authorises Biden impeachment inquiry; US prez calls it ‘baseless political stunt’

Is Pakistan dumping Big Brother China for Old Brother America? Will the U.S. resurrect its military bases in Pakistan, packed with powerful drones, to target and destroy terror hideouts in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan? Pakistan's Army Chief, Aseem Munir, is in Washington this week to seek support for its fight against terror.

Gravitas | Pakistan helpless against Taliban | Will U.S. resurrect its military bases?

<p>Boston City Council faced unexpected controversy when an email invitation for a holiday party exclusively for "electeds of color" was mistakenly sent to all councilors. The invitation, extended by Denise DosSantos on behalf of Mayor Michelle Wu, generated varied responses and raised questions about the nature of such exclusive gatherings.</p>

<p>Following the mistaken invitation, DosSantos promptly issued an apology, acknowledging the error and expressing regret if the email caused any offense.</p>

<p>The incident sparked mixed reactions among councilors, initiating a broader conversation about the appropriateness of exclusive events in a public forum.</p>

<p>Outgoing City Councilor Frank Baker deemed the exclusionary decision as "unfortunate and divisive." Despite not personally feeling offended, Baker stressed on the potential divisive impact.</p>

<p>In contrast, Councilor Brian Worrell defended the party, emphasizing its role in representing various groups within city government.</p>

<p>Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson supported the idea of groups meeting based on shared interests, focusing on inclusivity while creating spaces for like-minded individuals without exclusion.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-fertility-doctor-accused-of-covertly-impregnating-patient-with-his-own-sperm-669625">Also read |&nbsp;US fertility doctor accused of covertly impregnating patient with his own sperm</a></p>

<h2><strong>Defending the exclusive event</strong></h2>

<p>While some councilors criticised the decision to host an exclusive event, others commended it. Wu's spokesman, Ricardo Patrón, clarified that the mayor, being an elected official of colour, was asked to host the holiday party for the Electeds of Color group. He emphasised that similar inclusive celebrations were also planned, attempting to balance the approach.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US: Apex court to decide fate of abortion pill, mifepristone&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-apex-court-to-decide-fate-of-abortion-pill-mifepristone-wion-newspoint-669541/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The unintended holiday party invitation has sparked a broader conversation about the delicate balance between inclusivity and exclusivity in civic events.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Boston City Council faced unexpected controversy when an email invitation for a holiday party exclusively for "electeds of color" was mistakenly sent to all councilors.

Boston City Council faced unexpected controversy when an email invitation for a holiday party exclusively for "electeds of color" was mistakenly sent to all councilors. The invitation, extended by Denise DosSantos on behalf of Mayor Michelle Wu, generated varied responses and raised questions about the nature of such exclusive gatherings. Following the mistaken invitation, DosSantos promptly issued an apology, acknowledging the error and expressing regret if the email caused any offense. The incident sparked mixed reactions among councilors, initiating a broader conversation about the appropriateness of exclusive events in a public forum. Outgoing City Councilor Frank Baker deemed the exclusionary decision as "unfortunate and divisive." Despite not personally feeling offended, Baker stressed on the potential divisive impact. In contrast, Councilor Brian Worrell defended the party, emphasizing its role in representing various groups within city government. Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson supported the idea of groups meeting based on shared interests, focusing on inclusivity while creating spaces for like-minded individuals without exclusion. Also read | US fertility doctor accused of covertly impregnating patient with his own sperm Defending the exclusive event While some councilors criticised the decision to host an exclusive event, others commended it. Wu's spokesman, Ricardo Patrón, clarified that the mayor, being an elected official of colour, was asked to host the holiday party for the Electeds of Color group. He emphasised that similar inclusive celebrations were also planned, attempting to balance the approach. Also watch | US: Apex court to decide fate of abortion pill, mifepristone The unintended holiday party invitation has sparked a broader conversation about the delicate balance between inclusivity and exclusivity in civic events. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Boston mayor sparks outcry with 'no whites' Christmas party invitation

The U.S. Supreme Court, which in 2022 ended its recognition of a constitutional right to abortion, on Wednesday (December 13) agreed to hear a bid by President Joe Biden's administration to preserve broad access to the abortion pill, setting up another major ruling on reproductive rights set to come in a presidential election year.

Abortion rights: A decisive issue in US Presidential race?

Israel is losing global support, says US. The sale of assault rifle to Israel has been delayed by US. President Biden warns about diminishing support for Israel globally.

US delays sale of assault rifles to Israel over settler violence

The US, Japan and South Korea have ramped up security cooperation with a system for real-time sharing of north Korean ballistic missile warning data. The system will become operational in the next few days. It comes in the backdrop of growing nuclear and missile threats from north Korea.

US, Japan & S. Korea to share missile warning data, North Korea slams the decision

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