<p>The US has claimed it destroyed four anti-ship ballistic missiles that the Houthi terrorists from Yemen fired on Tuesday (Jan 16). The Houthis reportedly struck a Maltese-flagged bulk carrier during the skirmish, but it remained seaworthy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US Central Command (CENTCOM) released an update on the counter-operation, saying the shipping lane&nbsp;in the Red Sea remains a target for the Houthis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On Jan. 16 at approximately 1:45 pm (Sanaa time), Iranian-backed Houthi militants launched an anti-ship ballistic missile from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen into international shipping lanes in the Southern Red Sea," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest strike comes after Houthis struck a US-owned container ship with a similar missile on Monday (Jan 15).&nbsp;The ship was identified by CENTCOM as the M/V Gibraltar Eagle.</p>

<p>Houthis released a statement after the attack, saying they consider all US and its allies shipping containers in the region as hostile.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Yemeni armed forces consider all American and British ships and warships participating in the aggression against our country as hostile targets within the target bank of our forces,” read&nbsp;a Houthi statement posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) by spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Houthis upped the ante against the US and its allies this Sunday (Jan 14) by first launching an anti-ship cruise missile targeting warship USS Laboon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to experts, the&nbsp;rather ambitious attack by Yemen, if successful, could have signalled the start of a full-blown regional war. USA's involvement has already made the region ripe for the spillover effect.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/yemens-houthis-fired-anti-ship-missile-after-attack-in-yemen-us-679533"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Yemen's Houthis fired anti-ship missile after attack in Yemen: US</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Why the attack?</strong></h2>

<p>The United States and British forces on Friday (Jan 12) launched strikes in retaliation to the attacks by Houthi terrorists on Red Sea shipping vessels which are linked to Israel.</p>

<p>Australia also provided personnel support to the strikes, which&nbsp;involved various Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ship-hit-by-missile-off-yemen-uk-maritime-security-agency-680257"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;US-owned cargo ship hit by missile off the coast of Yemen in latest attack</strong></a></p>

<p>After launching strikes against Houthis, the United States and its allies said that stabilising crucial Red Sea shipping lanes remains their primary goal.</p>

<p>Houthis&nbsp;claim that their attacks are aimed at showing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;US President Joe Biden maintains that the strikes are&nbsp;a "direct response" to "unprecedented" attacks launched by the Houthis.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US has claimed it destroyed four anti-ship ballistic missiles that the Houthi terrorists from Yemen fired on Tuesday (Jan 16). The Houthis reportedly struck a Maltese-flagged bulk carrier during the skirmish, but it remained seaworthy.

The US has claimed it destroyed four anti-ship ballistic missiles that the Houthi terrorists from Yemen fired on Tuesday (Jan 16). The Houthis reportedly struck a Maltese-flagged bulk carrier during the skirmish, but it remained seaworthy. US Central Command (CENTCOM) released an update on the counter-operation, saying the shipping lane in the Red Sea remains a target for the Houthis. "On Jan. 16 at approximately 1:45 pm (Sanaa time), Iranian-backed Houthi militants launched an anti-ship ballistic missile from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen into international shipping lanes in the Southern Red Sea," read the statement. The latest strike comes after Houthis struck a US-owned container ship with a similar missile on Monday (Jan 15). The ship was identified by CENTCOM as the M/V Gibraltar Eagle. Houthis released a statement after the attack, saying they consider all US and its allies shipping containers in the region as hostile. “The Yemeni armed forces consider all American and British ships and warships participating in the aggression against our country as hostile targets within the target bank of our forces,” read a Houthi statement posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) by spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam. Houthis upped the ante against the US and its allies this Sunday (Jan 14) by first launching an anti-ship cruise missile targeting warship USS Laboon. According to experts, the rather ambitious attack by Yemen, if successful, could have signalled the start of a full-blown regional war. USA's involvement has already made the region ripe for the spillover effect. Watch | Yemen's Houthis fired anti-ship missile after attack in Yemen: US Why the attack? The United States and British forces on Friday (Jan 12) launched strikes in retaliation to the attacks by Houthi terrorists on Red Sea shipping vessels which are linked to Israel. Australia also provided personnel support to the strikes, which involved various Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets. Also read | US-owned cargo ship hit by missile off the coast of Yemen in latest attack After launching strikes against Houthis, the United States and its allies said that stabilising crucial Red Sea shipping lanes remains their primary goal. Houthis claim that their attacks are aimed at showing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden maintains that the strikes are a "direct response" to "unprecedented" attacks launched by the Houthis. (With inputs from agencies)

US destroys 4 Houthi anti-ship missiles, Malta-flagged bulk carrier hit

<p>Donald Trump breezed past his opponents in the Iowa caucuses on Monday (Jan 15) night, securing more than 50 per cent votes to pull ahead of the rest of the field. After the win, Trump addressed a boisterous crowd&nbsp;in Des Moine where he congratulated his rivals and talked about removing the aliens and making America great again.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We're going to come together. It's going to happen soon," Trump said at the Iowa Events Center, referring to his White House comeback.</p>

<p>Florida Governor Ron DeSantis finished second in the race with ex-UN ambassador Nikki Haley occupying the third spot. Trump congratulated them both and said he had a 'good time' together.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I want to congratulate Ron and Nikki for having a good time together. We're all having a good time together. And I think they both actually did very well. I really do. I think they both did very well," said Trump.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-wins-first-republican-contest-of-us-presidential-race-680371"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump wins first Republican contest of US Presidential race</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Trump sticks to business</strong></h2>

<p>Afterwards, the former president got down to his usual campaign messaging that was received enthusiastically by the Iowans who braved frigid cold temperatures to vote for him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We're going to drill, baby, drill right away. Drill, baby, drill. We're going to seal up the border because right now we have an invasion. We have an invasion of millions and millions of people that are coming into our country. I can't imagine why they think that's a good thing," Trump said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think it's a group of people that probably larger in number than New York State, and we can't have that. We can't have that. It's not sustainable as a country. It's horrible. And, you know, they're coming from prisons and jails," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-ramaswamy-drops-out-of-2024-presidential-race-after-iowa-caucus-680376"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Vivek Ramaswamy drops out of 2024 US presidential race after Iowa caucuses</strong></a></p>

<p>Trump finished his speech by evoking his trademark Make America Great Again (MAGA) slogan and urged voters to reelect him to the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our country is laughed at all over the world and laughing at us, and they want our country to come back. They want America, you know, they want us to be great again. It's a very simple MAGA. Make America great again and America first. America First is a very important part of MAGA," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Iowa win has strengthened Trump's credentials to go toe-to-toe with Joe Biden in the presidential race. The US president took to social media and conceded that Trump was the clear frontrunner at this stage in the Republican camp.</p>

<p><em>(With input from agencies)</em></p>


Donald Trump breezed past his opponents in the Iowa caucuses on Monday (Jan 15) night, securing more than 50 per cent votes to pull ahead of the rest of the field.

Donald Trump breezed past his opponents in the Iowa caucuses on Monday (Jan 15) night, securing more than 50 per cent votes to pull ahead of the rest of the field. After the win, Trump addressed a boisterous crowd in Des Moine where he congratulated his rivals and talked about removing the aliens and making America great again. "We're going to come together. It's going to happen soon," Trump said at the Iowa Events Center, referring to his White House comeback. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis finished second in the race with ex-UN ambassador Nikki Haley occupying the third spot. Trump congratulated them both and said he had a 'good time' together. "I want to congratulate Ron and Nikki for having a good time together. We're all having a good time together. And I think they both actually did very well. I really do. I think they both did very well," said Trump. Watch | Donald Trump wins first Republican contest of US Presidential race × Trump sticks to business Afterwards, the former president got down to his usual campaign messaging that was received enthusiastically by the Iowans who braved frigid cold temperatures to vote for him. "We're going to drill, baby, drill right away. Drill, baby, drill. We're going to seal up the border because right now we have an invasion. We have an invasion of millions and millions of people that are coming into our country. I can't imagine why they think that's a good thing," Trump said. "I think it's a group of people that probably larger in number than New York State, and we can't have that. We can't have that. It's not sustainable as a country. It's horrible. And, you know, they're coming from prisons and jails," he added. Also read | Vivek Ramaswamy drops out of 2024 US presidential race after Iowa caucuses Trump finished his speech by evoking his trademark Make America Great Again (MAGA) slogan and urged voters to reelect him to the White House. "Our country is laughed at all over the world and laughing at us, and they want our country to come back. They want America, you know, they want us to be great again. It's a very simple MAGA. Make America great again and America first. America First is a very important part of MAGA," he said. The Iowa win has strengthened Trump's credentials to go toe-to-toe with Joe Biden in the presidential race. The US president took to social media and conceded that Trump was the clear frontrunner at this stage in the Republican camp. (With input from agencies)

'Drill, baby, drill': Trump reiterates his campaign talking points after massive victory in Iowa caucuses

<p>Indian-origin entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has quit the 2024 US Republican presidential campaign,&nbsp;hours after suffering a heavy defeat in the Iowa caucuses. Ramaswamy finished fourth in the race, mustering only eight per cent of votes. He endorsed frontrunner Donald Trump for another term at the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 38-year-old had made waves after joining the race as a relatively unknown face in February 2023. He quickly gained prominence among first-time and young voters by aligning his campaign to that of former president Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is true that we did not achieve the surprise that we wanted to deliver tonight. As of this moment, we are going to suspend this presidential campaign," Ramaswamy told his supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramaswamy called Trump to congratulate him on his victory and endorsed his candidature as well.</p>

<p>"There needs to be an America First candidate in this race.&nbsp;Going forward, he will have my full endorsement for the presidency," Ramaswamy said, adding that he will attend the New Hampshire rally alongside Trump.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramaswamy had high hopes from Iowa as he held the most public events out of all his GOP rivals. He hit all 99 counties in the state twice and created an elaborate social media campaign to enter the big leagues.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-projected-to-win-republican-presidential-caucuses-in-iowa-680330"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Donald Trump wins Republican presidential caucuses in Iowa, DeSantis secures second spot</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>How Ramaswamy's campaign came to a halt</strong></h2>

<p>Ramaswamy, a US citizen born and raised in&nbsp;Cincinnati, Ohio, had put his hat in the ring to secure a nomination from the Republican party. He was up against former president Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Mike Pence and other heavyweights.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Known for his outspoken views against woke culture, Ramaswamy became a familiar face on news shows, engaging in debates across a spectrum of political perspectives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While he gained attention as an "interesting candidate" in the US media, characterised as "intelligent, highly unconventional, and less like any of the others," Ramaswamy also faced sharp criticism from political rivals and commentators.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vivek-ramaswamy-i-want-to-revive-our-nations-patriotism-and-pride-613452"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Vivek Ramaswamy: I want to revive our nation's patriotism and pride</strong></a></p>

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<p>A section of Republicans also accused him of being an outsider who had been propped up by the opponents to derail the campaigns of other established players. During the first presidential debate, Chris Christie mockingly referred to him as an AI app and accused him of&nbsp;borrowing Obama's line about his name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nikki Haley, who came third in Iowa causes behind Trump and Ron DeSantis, criticised Ramaswamy for his perceived lack of foreign policy experience while labelling&nbsp;him "scum" for discussing her daughter's TikTok usage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian-origin entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has quit the 2024 US Republican presidential campaign, hours after suffering a heavy defeat in the Iowa caucuses. Ramaswamy finished fourth in the race, mustering only eight per cent of votes.

Indian-origin entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has quit the 2024 US Republican presidential campaign, hours after suffering a heavy defeat in the Iowa caucuses. Ramaswamy finished fourth in the race, mustering only eight per cent of votes. He endorsed frontrunner Donald Trump for another term at the White House. The 38-year-old had made waves after joining the race as a relatively unknown face in February 2023. He quickly gained prominence among first-time and young voters by aligning his campaign to that of former president Donald Trump. "It is true that we did not achieve the surprise that we wanted to deliver tonight. As of this moment, we are going to suspend this presidential campaign," Ramaswamy told his supporters. Ramaswamy called Trump to congratulate him on his victory and endorsed his candidature as well. "There needs to be an America First candidate in this race. Going forward, he will have my full endorsement for the presidency," Ramaswamy said, adding that he will attend the New Hampshire rally alongside Trump. Ramaswamy had high hopes from Iowa as he held the most public events out of all his GOP rivals. He hit all 99 counties in the state twice and created an elaborate social media campaign to enter the big leagues. Also read | Donald Trump wins Republican presidential caucuses in Iowa, DeSantis secures second spot How Ramaswamy's campaign came to a halt Ramaswamy, a US citizen born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, had put his hat in the ring to secure a nomination from the Republican party. He was up against former president Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Mike Pence and other heavyweights. Known for his outspoken views against woke culture, Ramaswamy became a familiar face on news shows, engaging in debates across a spectrum of political perspectives. While he gained attention as an "interesting candidate" in the US media, characterised as "intelligent, highly unconventional, and less like any of the others," Ramaswamy also faced sharp criticism from political rivals and commentators. Watch | Vivek Ramaswamy: I want to revive our nation's patriotism and pride A section of Republicans also accused him of being an outsider who had been propped up by the opponents to derail the campaigns of other established players. During the first presidential debate, Chris Christie mockingly referred to him as an AI app and accused him of borrowing Obama's line about his name. Nikki Haley, who came third in Iowa causes behind Trump and Ron DeSantis, criticised Ramaswamy for his perceived lack of foreign policy experience while labelling him "scum" for discussing her daughter's TikTok usage. (With inputs from agencies)

Vivek Ramaswamy drops out of 2024 race after Iowa caucuses, endorses Trump for US president

<p>A US fighter aircraft shot down an anti-ship cruise missile fired from Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist areas of Yemen towards the USS Laboon, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Sunday (Jan 14).&nbsp;</p>

<p>There were no injuries or damage reported as of the last update.</p>

<p>"On Jan. 14 at approximately 4:45 p.m. (Sanaa time), an anti-ship cruise missile was fired from Iranian-backed Houthi militant areas of Yemen toward USS Laboon (DDG 58), which was operating in the Southern Red Sea," read the statement by CENTCOM posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The missile was shot down in vicinity of the coast of Hudaydah by US fighter aircraft," it added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On Jan. 14 at approximately 4:45 p.m. (Sanaa time), an anti-ship cruise missile was fired from Iranian-backed Houthi militant areas of Yemen toward USS Laboon (DDG 58), which was operating in the Southern Red Sea. The missile was shot down in vicinity of the coast of Hudaydah by… <a href="https://t.co/jftZHQhA2e">pic.twitter.com/jftZHQhA2e</a></p>
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1746705110401695779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to experts, the&nbsp;rather ambitious attack by Yemen, if successful, could have signalled the start of a full-blown regional war. USA's involvement has already made the region ripe for the spillover effect and a successful attack by the Houthis would have only added to the intensity from Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why the attack?</strong></h2>

<p>The United States and British forces on Friday (Jan 12) launched strikes in retaliation to the attacks by Houthi terrorists on Red Sea shipping vessels which are linked to Israel.</p>

<p>Australia also provided personnel support to the strikes, which&nbsp;involved various Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After launching strikes against Houthis, the United States and its allies said that stabilising crucial Red Sea shipping lanes remains their primary goal.</p>

<p>Houthis&nbsp;claim that their attacks are aimed at showing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/yemens-houthis-fired-anti-ship-missile-after-attack-in-yemen-us-679533"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Yemen's Houthis fired anti-ship missile after attack in Yemen: US</strong></a></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Iran-backed terror outfit Hezbollah on Sunday (Jan 14) warned that the US was mistaken if it assumed that Houthis would step back&nbsp;owing to the strikes by Washington and its allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If (US President) Biden and those with him think the Yemenis will stop supporting Gaza in the Red Sea, they are wrong and ignorant. They don’t know Yemen, its people and its leadership and its history. They don’t know anything,” said Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden has maintained that the strikes are&nbsp;a "direct response" to "unprecedented" attacks launched by the Houthis.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A US fighter aircraft shot down an anti-ship cruise missile fired from Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist areas of Yemen towards the USS Laboon, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Sunday (Jan 14).

A US fighter aircraft shot down an anti-ship cruise missile fired from Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist areas of Yemen towards the USS Laboon, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Sunday (Jan 14). There were no injuries or damage reported as of the last update. "On Jan. 14 at approximately 4:45 p.m. (Sanaa time), an anti-ship cruise missile was fired from Iranian-backed Houthi militant areas of Yemen toward USS Laboon (DDG 58), which was operating in the Southern Red Sea," read the statement by CENTCOM posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. "The missile was shot down in vicinity of the coast of Hudaydah by US fighter aircraft," it added. On Jan. 14 at approximately 4:45 p.m. (Sanaa time), an anti-ship cruise missile was fired from Iranian-backed Houthi militant areas of Yemen toward USS Laboon (DDG 58), which was operating in the Southern Red Sea. The missile was shot down in vicinity of the coast of Hudaydah by… pic.twitter.com/jftZHQhA2e — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) January 15, 2024 × According to experts, the rather ambitious attack by Yemen, if successful, could have signalled the start of a full-blown regional war. USA's involvement has already made the region ripe for the spillover effect and a successful attack by the Houthis would have only added to the intensity from Washington. Why the attack? The United States and British forces on Friday (Jan 12) launched strikes in retaliation to the attacks by Houthi terrorists on Red Sea shipping vessels which are linked to Israel. Australia also provided personnel support to the strikes, which involved various Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets. After launching strikes against Houthis, the United States and its allies said that stabilising crucial Red Sea shipping lanes remains their primary goal. Houthis claim that their attacks are aimed at showing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Watch | Yemen's Houthis fired anti-ship missile after attack in Yemen: US × Meanwhile, Iran-backed terror outfit Hezbollah on Sunday (Jan 14) warned that the US was mistaken if it assumed that Houthis would step back owing to the strikes by Washington and its allies. “If (US President) Biden and those with him think the Yemenis will stop supporting Gaza in the Red Sea, they are wrong and ignorant. They don’t know Yemen, its people and its leadership and its history. They don’t know anything,” said Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. US President Joe Biden has maintained that the strikes are a "direct response" to "unprecedented" attacks launched by the Houthis. (With inputs from agencies)

US claims it shot down anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi area of Yemen targeting USS Laboon

<p>As many as four people were killed while another was severely injured after a hot-air balloon crashed in the Arizona desert on Sunday (Jan 14), according to the local police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fatal crash took place near Eloy just before 8 in the morning. There were a total of 13 people in the balloon with eight jumping out of it before the crash happened. Five people remained inside, including the pilot and four who were along for the ride.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the press release by the police department, it was mentioned that one of the four victims died at the scene and three were taken to a local hospital where they succumbed to the injuries. The fourth one remains hospitalised.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A tragic hot air balloon crash occurred at approximately 7:50 AM today in the desert area east of Sunshine Blvd. and Hanna Rd. in Eloy, AZ. The Eloy Police Department regretfully confirms that there are four deceased individuals and one person in critical condition as a result of this incident," the Eloy Police Department informed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-two-dead-a-child-injured-after-hot-air-balloon-catches-fire-mid-air-in-mexico-578162"><strong>Video | Hot air balloon catches fire mid-air in Mexico; two dead, a child injured</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Cause of the incident?</strong></h2>

<p>The cause of the crash remains unknown at this stage but officials from the&nbsp;National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) arrived at&nbsp;the scene and took&nbsp;over the investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Eloy Police Department said it was withholding the names of the victims out of respect for their privacy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a witness, who saw the last 10 seconds of the balloon's fatal freefall, said the otherwise puffy object looked deflated, shapeless and coming straight down to the ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hot-air-balloon-crash-injures-11-in-new-zealand-397085"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Hot air balloon crash injures 11 in New Zealand</strong></a></p>

<p>The city's mayor, Micah Powell said the area where the incident took place is a popular location for skydivers and is "very well-known and loved" among enthusiasts.</p>

<p>“It’s a sad, sad situation.&nbsp;Our hearts go out to those families who lost loved ones," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


As many as four people were killed while another was severely injured after a hot-air balloon crashed in the Arizona desert on Sunday (Jan 14), according to the local police.

As many as four people were killed while another was severely injured after a hot-air balloon crashed in the Arizona desert on Sunday (Jan 14), according to the local police. The fatal crash took place near Eloy just before 8 in the morning. There were a total of 13 people in the balloon with eight jumping out of it before the crash happened. Five people remained inside, including the pilot and four who were along for the ride. In the press release by the police department, it was mentioned that one of the four victims died at the scene and three were taken to a local hospital where they succumbed to the injuries. The fourth one remains hospitalised. "A tragic hot air balloon crash occurred at approximately 7:50 AM today in the desert area east of Sunshine Blvd. and Hanna Rd. in Eloy, AZ. The Eloy Police Department regretfully confirms that there are four deceased individuals and one person in critical condition as a result of this incident," the Eloy Police Department informed. Video | Hot air balloon catches fire mid-air in Mexico; two dead, a child injured Cause of the incident? The cause of the crash remains unknown at this stage but officials from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) arrived at the scene and took over the investigation. The Eloy Police Department said it was withholding the names of the victims out of respect for their privacy. According to a witness, who saw the last 10 seconds of the balloon's fatal freefall, said the otherwise puffy object looked deflated, shapeless and coming straight down to the ground. Also read | Hot air balloon crash injures 11 in New Zealand The city's mayor, Micah Powell said the area where the incident took place is a popular location for skydivers and is "very well-known and loved" among enthusiasts. “It’s a sad, sad situation. Our hearts go out to those families who lost loved ones," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US: 4 dead, 1 severely injured in hot-air balloon crash in Arizona desert

<p>A week after it was revealed that&nbsp;Chinese billionaire and member of the Communist Party of China (CCP), Chen Tianqiao managed to become the second-largest foreign owner of farmland in the US, leaders from both ends of the political divide have started asking questions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chen, a co-founder of Shanda Interactive Entertainment, made headlines last week after it came to light that he bought 200,000 acres of farmland in Oregon in 2015 at about $430 an acre.</p>

<p>Questioning the current regime,&nbsp;New York Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik said the Biden administration had "dropped the ball" in protecting the precious American agricultural&nbsp;lands.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Communist China is purchasing US agricultural land to subvert our sovereignty, undermine our agriculture industry, encroach on our military installations, and upend America’s rural communities,” said&nbsp;Stefanik.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She was among a group of bipartisan legislators who wrote to Agriculture Secretary Thomas to protest the federal government's lax oversight of foreign land purchases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Montana Senator&nbsp;Jon Teste urged Congress to protect US land security.</p>

<p>“While we learn more about the specifics around this unfolding situation, it highlights the need for Congress to do more to protect American agricultural security,” he said.</p>

<p>The surprising aspect is that Chen's purchase does not appear in government records.&nbsp;According to the&nbsp;Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act, foreign investors are required to report any new interest in American agricultural land to the&nbsp;Department of Agriculture within 90 days of the transaction.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ex-chairman-of-chinas-everbright-group-expelled-from-ccp-677852"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ex-Chairman of China's Everbright group expelled from CCP</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Who is Chen?</strong></h2>

<p>Chen co-founded an online gaming company called Shanda Interactive Entertainment in 1999. Within five years, he managed to scale it to become one of China's largest internet companies.&nbsp;The Word of Legend, Dungeons &amp; Dragons Online and Final Fantasy XIV are a few of the gaming titles under Chen's belt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His company's IPO was also listed on NASDAQ in the US after raising $152 million. Forbes has Chen’s net worth pegged at $1 billion, as of 2024,&nbsp;down from its peak of $1.5 billion a decade ago.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-officials-set-to-visit-taiwan-to-back-longstanding-interest-in-cross-strait-peace-679838"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Ex-US officials set to visit Taiwan, to back 'longstanding interest' in cross-strait peace</strong></a></p>

<p>He is only behind Canada's Irving family in foreign ownership of American lands. The Irvings own&nbsp;1.2 million acres of Maine timberland.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A week after it was revealed that Chinese billionaire and member of the Communist Party of China (CCP), Chen Tianqiao managed to become the second-largest foreign owner of farmland in the US, leaders from both ends of the political divide have started asking questions.

A week after it was revealed that Chinese billionaire and member of the Communist Party of China (CCP), Chen Tianqiao managed to become the second-largest foreign owner of farmland in the US, leaders from both ends of the political divide have started asking questions. Chen, a co-founder of Shanda Interactive Entertainment, made headlines last week after it came to light that he bought 200,000 acres of farmland in Oregon in 2015 at about $430 an acre. Questioning the current regime, New York Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik said the Biden administration had "dropped the ball" in protecting the precious American agricultural lands. “Communist China is purchasing US agricultural land to subvert our sovereignty, undermine our agriculture industry, encroach on our military installations, and upend America’s rural communities,” said Stefanik. She was among a group of bipartisan legislators who wrote to Agriculture Secretary Thomas to protest the federal government's lax oversight of foreign land purchases. Meanwhile, Montana Senator Jon Teste urged Congress to protect US land security. “While we learn more about the specifics around this unfolding situation, it highlights the need for Congress to do more to protect American agricultural security,” he said. The surprising aspect is that Chen's purchase does not appear in government records. According to the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act, foreign investors are required to report any new interest in American agricultural land to the Department of Agriculture within 90 days of the transaction. Watch | Ex-Chairman of China's Everbright group expelled from CCP × Who is Chen? Chen co-founded an online gaming company called Shanda Interactive Entertainment in 1999. Within five years, he managed to scale it to become one of China's largest internet companies. The Word of Legend, Dungeons & Dragons Online and Final Fantasy XIV are a few of the gaming titles under Chen's belt. His company's IPO was also listed on NASDAQ in the US after raising $152 million. Forbes has Chen’s net worth pegged at $1 billion, as of 2024, down from its peak of $1.5 billion a decade ago. Also read | Ex-US officials set to visit Taiwan, to back 'longstanding interest' in cross-strait peace He is only behind Canada's Irving family in foreign ownership of American lands. The Irvings own 1.2 million acres of Maine timberland. (With inputs from agencies)

Lawmakers enraged after Chinese Communist party member purchases 200,000 acres of US land

<p>The US is mulling granting India "treaty country status" under which the new E1 and E2 visa options will open for Indian traders and businessmen travelling to American cities. The two countries are also discussing a proposal to allow H-1B visa holders and their family members to renew their visas in America only, without having to travel to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India presented the proposals at the&nbsp;Trade Policy Forum (TPF) meeting on Friday (Jan 12)&nbsp;co-chaired by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and&nbsp;US Trade Representative Katherine Tai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the meeting, the two sides noted that the movement of professional and skilled workers as well as students and investors immensely enhanced the&nbsp;bilateral economic and technological partnership.</p>

<p>"The (Indian) commerce department and the ministry of external affairs have been working together on several issues and we had a very good year in 2023 in our relationship with the US," said Goyal in a media interaction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The joint statement added: “Minister Goyal highlighted challenges being faced by business visitors from India due to visa processing time periods and requested the US to augment processing."</p>

<p>As for the H-1B visa, an official in the know of the matter said New Delhi had requested Washington to make the arrangement permanent.&nbsp;Currently, in the US, the state-side facility is in a pilot programme. The state-side&nbsp;facility means the person staying with an H1B visa can get it renewed in the US only.</p>

<p>"We are asking to extend this facility not only to the original visa holder but to his/her family also so that the family does not need to come back to India for renewal of visas,” the unnamed officials was quoted as saying by <em>The Indian Express.</em></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/record-number-of-india-students-get-us-visas-664411"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Record number of India students get US visas</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>What are E1 and E2 visas?</strong></h2>

<p>The two visa types, commonly referred to as E1 (the Treaty Trader) and E2 (Treaty Investor) were established to facilitate and enhance economic interaction between the United States and other countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US immigration law explicitly states that "E-1 visa holders must enter solely to carry on substantial trade and E-2 holders solely to develop and direct the operations of an enterprise&nbsp;in which he or she has invested".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-processes-1-million-visas-to-indian-in-2023-garcetti-says-more-to-come-640571"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Record number of India studeUS processes 1 million visas to Indians in 2023, ambassador Eric Garcetti says more to come</strong></a></p>

<p>These visas are only extended to countries who are part of the treaty countries of the US. They can be renewed or extended only if the investment or trade continues to meet all applicable requirements of US immigration laws and regulations.</p>

<p>As many as&nbsp;100 countries, including China (Taiwan), Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Pakistan, Philippines and Sri Lanka have been granted treaty country status but India is yet to receive it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, these visas are non-immigrant visas and thus 'temporary'. Any individual wishing to remain indefinitely in the US may need to apply for the other appropriate immigrant visa option.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US is mulling granting India "treaty country status" under which the new E1 and E2 visa options will open for Indian traders and businessmen travelling to American cities.

The US is mulling granting India "treaty country status" under which the new E1 and E2 visa options will open for Indian traders and businessmen travelling to American cities. The two countries are also discussing a proposal to allow H-1B visa holders and their family members to renew their visas in America only, without having to travel to India. India presented the proposals at the Trade Policy Forum (TPF) meeting on Friday (Jan 12) co-chaired by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and US Trade Representative Katherine Tai. During the meeting, the two sides noted that the movement of professional and skilled workers as well as students and investors immensely enhanced the bilateral economic and technological partnership. "The (Indian) commerce department and the ministry of external affairs have been working together on several issues and we had a very good year in 2023 in our relationship with the US," said Goyal in a media interaction. The joint statement added: “Minister Goyal highlighted challenges being faced by business visitors from India due to visa processing time periods and requested the US to augment processing." As for the H-1B visa, an official in the know of the matter said New Delhi had requested Washington to make the arrangement permanent. Currently, in the US, the state-side facility is in a pilot programme. The state-side facility means the person staying with an H1B visa can get it renewed in the US only. "We are asking to extend this facility not only to the original visa holder but to his/her family also so that the family does not need to come back to India for renewal of visas,” the unnamed officials was quoted as saying by The Indian Express. WATCH | Record number of India students get US visas × What are E1 and E2 visas? The two visa types, commonly referred to as E1 (the Treaty Trader) and E2 (Treaty Investor) were established to facilitate and enhance economic interaction between the United States and other countries. US immigration law explicitly states that "E-1 visa holders must enter solely to carry on substantial trade and E-2 holders solely to develop and direct the operations of an enterprise in which he or she has invested". Also read | Record number of India studeUS processes 1 million visas to Indians in 2023, ambassador Eric Garcetti says more to come These visas are only extended to countries who are part of the treaty countries of the US. They can be renewed or extended only if the investment or trade continues to meet all applicable requirements of US immigration laws and regulations. As many as 100 countries, including China (Taiwan), Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Pakistan, Philippines and Sri Lanka have been granted treaty country status but India is yet to receive it. Notably, these visas are non-immigrant visas and thus 'temporary'. Any individual wishing to remain indefinitely in the US may need to apply for the other appropriate immigrant visa option. (With inputs from agencies)

US mulls 'treaty country' status for India as New Delhi seeks easier visa norms for traders

<p>The US Congress has reached an agreement on a short-term spending deal that would help avoid a government shutdown, according to a <em>CNN </em>report that cites sources. The&nbsp;two-tranche short-term funding bill will keep the government afloat which otherwise would have capsized after hitting the midnight deadline of January 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the new resolution, the bill would fund the government through&nbsp;March 1 and March 8.&nbsp;Missing the first deadline would have meant&nbsp;delay in payments&nbsp;to federal employees and severe disruption to many government services deemed non-essential.</p>

<p>The second government funding deadline, set to expire on February 2, focuses on eight&nbsp;appropriation&nbsp;areas such as defence, commerce, homeland security and financial service among others that may have lost funding if the bipartisan agreement was not reached.</p>

<p>While an agreement has been reached on the short-term bill, known as&nbsp;a continuing resolution or “CR", it will still have to pass both House and Senate before Friday (Jan 19).</p>

<p>The reported signing of the deal by House and Senate leaders comes a few days after they reached an agreement to set the overall spending level for fiscal year 2024 at $1.41 trillion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-likely-to-happen-if-us-government-shutdown-on-october-1-639264"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Explained | What is likely to happen if US government shuts dow</strong></a><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-likely-to-happen-if-us-government-shutdown-on-october-1-639264">n</a></strong></p>

<p>Both Republican and Democrat leaders at Capitol Hill agreed to the budget figure which includes $886 billion for defence and more than $704 billion for non-defence spending.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The signing of the deal was announced jointly by&nbsp;Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate majority leader, and Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House.</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden welcomed the deal, stating that the funding framework "moves&nbsp;us one step closer to preventing a needless government shutdown" whilst adding that it protects important national priorities.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-could-face-its-fourth-partial-government-shutdown-in-a-decade-641071"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-7="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-could-face-its-fourth-partial-government-shutdown-in-a-decade-641071/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Section of Republicans unhappy</strong></h2>

<p>Despite reaching an agreement on the overall amount of spending, a section of Republicans remains unhappy with the deal.&nbsp;The House Freedom Caucus, a conservative Republican group called the agreement a "total failure".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sad to say but the spending epidemic in Washington continues with both parties being culpable," said Andy Biggs, the former chief of the group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In October last year, Congress secured a short-term deal to avoid a federal shutdown temporarily which was signed into a law by President Joe Biden, minutes before the deadline.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US Congress has reached an agreement on a short-term spending deal that would help avoid a government shutdown, according to a CNN report that cites sources.

The US Congress has reached an agreement on a short-term spending deal that would help avoid a government shutdown, according to a CNN report that cites sources. The two-tranche short-term funding bill will keep the government afloat which otherwise would have capsized after hitting the midnight deadline of January 19. According to the new resolution, the bill would fund the government through March 1 and March 8. Missing the first deadline would have meant delay in payments to federal employees and severe disruption to many government services deemed non-essential. The second government funding deadline, set to expire on February 2, focuses on eight appropriation areas such as defence, commerce, homeland security and financial service among others that may have lost funding if the bipartisan agreement was not reached. While an agreement has been reached on the short-term bill, known as a continuing resolution or “CR", it will still have to pass both House and Senate before Friday (Jan 19). The reported signing of the deal by House and Senate leaders comes a few days after they reached an agreement to set the overall spending level for fiscal year 2024 at $1.41 trillion. Also read | Explained | What is likely to happen if US government shuts down Both Republican and Democrat leaders at Capitol Hill agreed to the budget figure which includes $886 billion for defence and more than $704 billion for non-defence spending. The signing of the deal was announced jointly by Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate majority leader, and Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House. US President Joe Biden welcomed the deal, stating that the funding framework "moves us one step closer to preventing a needless government shutdown" whilst adding that it protects important national priorities. Watch | Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade Section of Republicans unhappy Despite reaching an agreement on the overall amount of spending, a section of Republicans remains unhappy with the deal. The House Freedom Caucus, a conservative Republican group called the agreement a "total failure". "Sad to say but the spending epidemic in Washington continues with both parties being culpable," said Andy Biggs, the former chief of the group. In October last year, Congress secured a short-term deal to avoid a federal shutdown temporarily which was signed into a law by President Joe Biden, minutes before the deadline. (With inputs from agencies)

US Congress leaders reach short-term deal to avert government shutdown till March: Report

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<p>Iran-backed terrorist outfit Hezbollah is planning to strike Americans in the Middle East and even hit inside the United States, a report in <em>Politico </em>has claimed, citing four unnamed intelligence officials.</p>

<p>The publication claimed that the Lebanese Hezbollah terrorists are likely to target US personnel in the Middle East first - the ground for the ongoing war involving US ally Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Hezbollah could draw on the capability they have...to put people [in] places to do something. It is something to be worried about," one of the officials was quoted as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What makes Hezbollah different from other terror outfits such as the Islamic State or al-Qaeda is that it has an expansive international network, allowing its operatives to conduct jihadi operations on US soil. Other terror organisations usually have individuals inspired by their ideology carrying out lone-wolf attacks in the US and Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Either way, if such an attack occurs, it could threaten a global spillover that Washington has desperately wanted to avoid. Moreover, it might draw the US back into the Middle East at a delicate time when its resources are being utilised to counter China and Russia. The latter might use Washington's change of priorities to go for the kill against Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-counterstrike-on-iran-backed-forces-former-retaliates-after-3-troops-hurt-world-news-wion-673669"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US counterstrike on Iran-backed forces, former retaliates after 3 troops hurt</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-7="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-counterstrike-on-iran-backed-forces-former-retaliates-after-3-troops-hurt-world-news-wion-673669/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Hezbollah attack on US military bases</strong></h2>

<p>The claims made by the outlet are not completely baseless. Hezbollah has already attacked US military bases in the region on multiple occasions - hinting at its future plans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In December last year, the US military base of Kharab al-Jir in Syria was attacked by alleged Hezbollah terrorists. Previously, the Kharab al-Jir base was attacked in October 2023 on two consecutive days. At the time, the attacks were claimed by groups either directly controlled by Tehran or sharing the ideology of other groups currently fighting Israel</p>

<p>The fresh attack came in the backdrop of the US military carrying out retaliatory strikes in Iraq after three American soldiers were wounded in a drone attack on December 26 by Iran-aligned terrorists.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-retaliatory-attacks-in-iraq-after-militants-target-military-base-leaving-three-injured-673548"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;US carries out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after militants target military base leaving three injured</strong></a></p>

<p>The White House accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for similar attacks and respond appropriately.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said White House spokesman John Kirby at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite US retaliation, the continuous attacks by Iran-backed non-state actors suggest that Tehran is willing to use its&nbsp;extensive&nbsp;network of well-armed, aggressive and well-coordinated proxies, especially Hezbollah, to corner Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran-backed terrorist outfit Hezbollah is planning to strike Americans in the Middle East and even hit inside the United States, a report in Politico has claimed, citing four unnamed intelligence officials.

Iran-backed terrorist outfit Hezbollah is planning to strike Americans in the Middle East and even hit inside the United States, a report in Politico has claimed, citing four unnamed intelligence officials. The publication claimed that the Lebanese Hezbollah terrorists are likely to target US personnel in the Middle East first - the ground for the ongoing war involving US ally Israel. “Hezbollah could draw on the capability they have...to put people [in] places to do something. It is something to be worried about," one of the officials was quoted as saying. What makes Hezbollah different from other terror outfits such as the Islamic State or al-Qaeda is that it has an expansive international network, allowing its operatives to conduct jihadi operations on US soil. Other terror organisations usually have individuals inspired by their ideology carrying out lone-wolf attacks in the US and Europe. Either way, if such an attack occurs, it could threaten a global spillover that Washington has desperately wanted to avoid. Moreover, it might draw the US back into the Middle East at a delicate time when its resources are being utilised to counter China and Russia. The latter might use Washington's change of priorities to go for the kill against Ukraine. Watch | US counterstrike on Iran-backed forces, former retaliates after 3 troops hurt Hezbollah attack on US military bases The claims made by the outlet are not completely baseless. Hezbollah has already attacked US military bases in the region on multiple occasions - hinting at its future plans. In December last year, the US military base of Kharab al-Jir in Syria was attacked by alleged Hezbollah terrorists. Previously, the Kharab al-Jir base was attacked in October 2023 on two consecutive days. At the time, the attacks were claimed by groups either directly controlled by Tehran or sharing the ideology of other groups currently fighting Israel The fresh attack came in the backdrop of the US military carrying out retaliatory strikes in Iraq after three American soldiers were wounded in a drone attack on December 26 by Iran-aligned terrorists. Also read | US carries out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after militants target military base leaving three injured The White House accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for similar attacks and respond appropriately. “Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said White House spokesman John Kirby at the time. Despite US retaliation, the continuous attacks by Iran-backed non-state actors suggest that Tehran is willing to use its extensive network of well-armed, aggressive and well-coordinated proxies, especially Hezbollah, to corner Washington. (With inputs from agencies)

Hezbollah planning attacks on Americans in Middle East as well as on US soil, claims report

<p>Families of two prisoners who died in separate jails&nbsp;in Alabama, USA have taken the state to court after it was found that internal organs were missing from their bodies when they were returned to their loved ones. The federal lawsuit filed by family of late Brandon Clay Dotson has accused that his body was decomposing and his heart was missing when the remains were handed over by the prison&nbsp;authorities. A court filing in the case also mentions that daughter of Charles Edward Singleton, another prisoner who died in jail, found that all of her father's internal organs were missing.</p>

<p>The Associated Press qouted Lauren Faraino, Dotson family lawyer as saying that as multiple families have had this experience, this is “absolutely part of a pattern.”</p>

<p>On November 16, Dotson was found dead at Ventress Correctional Facility. When his boy was handed over to the family, they suspected foul play and hired a pathologist who carried out a second autopsy. It was then found that the heart was missing from the dead body, says the lawsuit. The family is asking the state the reason behind this and is demanding that the heart be returned.</p>

<h2><strong>A 'grave robbery'</strong></h2>

<p>“Defendants’ outrageous and inexcusable mishandling of the deceased’s body amounts to a reprehensible violation of human dignity and common decency,” says the lawsuit, as per AP.</p>

<p>“...their appalling misconduct is nothing short of grave robbery and mutilation.” it adds.</p>

<p>Faraino said that&nbsp;on making inquiries, the family found&nbsp;there had been several such cases.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Hunter Biden's surprise visit to Capitol Hill causes frenzy in US Congress</strong></p>

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<p>In a court filing last week, the Dotsons mentioned the case of Charles Edward Singleton. The filing reportedly says that Singleton's family found that all of his internal organs were missing from his dead body. The filing mentions writing from Charlene Drake, Singleton's daughter which corroborates what Dotson family has said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mealy-mouth-politician-lies-and-more-desantis-and-haley-engage-in-verbal-battle-at-pre-iowa-debate-678851">'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate</a></strong></p>

<p>Drake quoted the funeral director who told her that “normally the organs are in a bag placed back in the body after an autopsy, but Charles had been brought to the funeral home with no internal organs.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mealy-mouth-politician-lies-and-more-desantis-and-haley-engage-in-verbal-battle-at-pre-iowa-debate-678851">'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate</a></strong></p>

<p>The Dotsons now contend that Brandon Clay Dotson's heart may have been inside his body during state autopsy. They say that it may have been given to the medical school at University of Alabama at Birmingham</p>

<p>AP reports that the university had termed this claim "bald speculation". The university has also made a court filing declaring that it did not perform the autopsy and did not receive Dotson's organs.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Families of two prisoners who died in separate jails in Alabama, USA have taken the state to court after it was found that internal organs were missing from their bodies when they were returned to their loved ones.

Families of two prisoners who died in separate jails in Alabama, USA have taken the state to court after it was found that internal organs were missing from their bodies when they were returned to their loved ones. The federal lawsuit filed by family of late Brandon Clay Dotson has accused that his body was decomposing and his heart was missing when the remains were handed over by the prison authorities. A court filing in the case also mentions that daughter of Charles Edward Singleton, another prisoner who died in jail, found that all of her father's internal organs were missing. The Associated Press qouted Lauren Faraino, Dotson family lawyer as saying that as multiple families have had this experience, this is “absolutely part of a pattern.” On November 16, Dotson was found dead at Ventress Correctional Facility. When his boy was handed over to the family, they suspected foul play and hired a pathologist who carried out a second autopsy. It was then found that the heart was missing from the dead body, says the lawsuit. The family is asking the state the reason behind this and is demanding that the heart be returned. A 'grave robbery' “Defendants’ outrageous and inexcusable mishandling of the deceased’s body amounts to a reprehensible violation of human dignity and common decency,” says the lawsuit, as per AP. “...their appalling misconduct is nothing short of grave robbery and mutilation.” it adds. Faraino said that on making inquiries, the family found there had been several such cases. Watch | Hunter Biden's surprise visit to Capitol Hill causes frenzy in US Congress × In a court filing last week, the Dotsons mentioned the case of Charles Edward Singleton. The filing reportedly says that Singleton's family found that all of his internal organs were missing from his dead body. The filing mentions writing from Charlene Drake, Singleton's daughter which corroborates what Dotson family has said. Also Read | 'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate Drake quoted the funeral director who told her that “normally the organs are in a bag placed back in the body after an autopsy, but Charles had been brought to the funeral home with no internal organs.” Also Read | 'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate The Dotsons now contend that Brandon Clay Dotson's heart may have been inside his body during state autopsy. They say that it may have been given to the medical school at University of Alabama at Birmingham AP reports that the university had termed this claim "bald speculation". The university has also made a court filing declaring that it did not perform the autopsy and did not receive Dotson's organs. (With inputs from agencies)

Alabama state accused of 'grave robbery' after jail returns inmate's body with his heart missing

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<p>As many as 12 Hasidic Jewish worshippers were arrested after a Brooklyn synagogue became the centre of chaos on Monday (Jan 8) over a 'tunnel'. The&nbsp;New York Police Department (NYPD) had arrived at the place of worship to fill a secret tunnel but was quickly swarmed by protesters. The videos of the incident have gone viral on social media, giving way to a host of conspiracy theories.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In one of the video clips, a stained mattress could be seen lying abandoned while another footage showed&nbsp;a baby rocker, sparking concerns as to what was going on inside the illegal structure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One user on X shared the video of the tunnel and asked:&nbsp;“Why is there a baby highchair in that tunnel?”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, another questioned: "Is that a stained mattress pulled from a secret tunnel behind a synagogue wall in NYC????"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Why is their a baby highchair in that tunnel???? <a href="https://t.co/JKsG4rzUTn">pic.twitter.com/JKsG4rzUTn</a></p>
— GBH 🦁☝️ Remilio (@xbtGBH) <a href="https://twitter.com/xbtGBH/status/1744585575997296876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨🚨🚨. Is that A STAINED MATTRESS PULLED FROM A SECRET TUNNEL BEHIND A SYNAGOGUE WALL in NYC???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shul770?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shul770</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChabadHeadquarters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChabadHeadquarters</a> <a href="https://t.co/Dnhg9PKUcg">https://t.co/Dnhg9PKUcg</a> <a href="https://t.co/giyEbQytiy">pic.twitter.com/giyEbQytiy</a></p>
— 💦 📈Fetty VWAP 📈💦 (@cturtleemmers) <a href="https://twitter.com/cturtleemmers/status/1744532830095355961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Something very sinister is happening there <a href="https://t.co/apq9Beo6bU">pic.twitter.com/apq9Beo6bU</a></p>
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (parody) (@netanyahutoo) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahutoo/status/1744545609133048170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>After NYPD personnel arrived at the Chabad-Lubavitch headquarters synagogue, located in Brooklyn’s Crown Heights neighbourhood, the agitators engaged in a brawl with them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At one point, the crowd appeared to bullrush through the police and climbed over the destroyed wooden furniture. The incident ultimately ended with the arrest of rioters and the temporary shuttering of the synagogue.</p>

<p>According to a report in Times of Israel, the tunnel was dug within the last few years. Moreover, the secret passage was constructed without authorisation from the Chabad leadership.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-york-synagogue-erupts-into-chaos-as-secret-tunnel-unearthed-678208"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;New York synagogue erupts into chaos as secret tunnel unearthed</strong></a></p>

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<p>Motti Seligson, the Chabad Lubavitch media director, issued a statement on Tuesday (Jan 9), saying the damage to the synagogue was caused by "extremist students".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Some time ago, a group of extremist students, broke through a few walls in adjacent properties to the synagogue at 784-788 Eastern Parkway, to provide them unauthorised access. Earlier today, a cement truck was brought in to repair those walls," said&nbsp;Seligson.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Those efforts were disrupted by the extremists who broke through the wall to the synagogue, vandalising the sanctuary, in an effort to preserve their unauthorised access."</p>

<p>Notably, an anonymous tip about the location and the secret tunnel had been sent to the New York City Fire Department last month. However, when the team responded, all exits were found operable and up to code, according to Amanda Farinacci, a spokesperson for the agency.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As many as 12 Hasidic Jewish worshippers were arrested after a Brooklyn synagogue became the centre of chaos on Monday (Jan 8) over a 'tunnel'. The New York Police Department (NYPD) had arrived at the place of worship to fill a secret tunnel but was quickly swarmed by protesters.

As many as 12 Hasidic Jewish worshippers were arrested after a Brooklyn synagogue became the centre of chaos on Monday (Jan 8) over a 'tunnel'. The New York Police Department (NYPD) had arrived at the place of worship to fill a secret tunnel but was quickly swarmed by protesters. The videos of the incident have gone viral on social media, giving way to a host of conspiracy theories. In one of the video clips, a stained mattress could be seen lying abandoned while another footage showed a baby rocker, sparking concerns as to what was going on inside the illegal structure. One user on X shared the video of the tunnel and asked: “Why is there a baby highchair in that tunnel?” Meanwhile, another questioned: "Is that a stained mattress pulled from a secret tunnel behind a synagogue wall in NYC????" Why is their a baby highchair in that tunnel???? pic.twitter.com/JKsG4rzUTn — GBH 🦁☝️ Remilio (@xbtGBH) January 9, 2024 × 🚨🚨🚨. Is that A STAINED MATTRESS PULLED FROM A SECRET TUNNEL BEHIND A SYNAGOGUE WALL in NYC???? #Shul770 #ChabadHeadquarters https://t.co/Dnhg9PKUcg pic.twitter.com/giyEbQytiy — 💦 📈Fetty VWAP 📈💦 (@cturtleemmers) January 9, 2024 × Something very sinister is happening there pic.twitter.com/apq9Beo6bU — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (parody) (@netanyahutoo) January 9, 2024 × What happened? After NYPD personnel arrived at the Chabad-Lubavitch headquarters synagogue, located in Brooklyn’s Crown Heights neighbourhood, the agitators engaged in a brawl with them. At one point, the crowd appeared to bullrush through the police and climbed over the destroyed wooden furniture. The incident ultimately ended with the arrest of rioters and the temporary shuttering of the synagogue. According to a report in Times of Israel, the tunnel was dug within the last few years. Moreover, the secret passage was constructed without authorisation from the Chabad leadership. Watch | New York synagogue erupts into chaos as secret tunnel unearthed × Motti Seligson, the Chabad Lubavitch media director, issued a statement on Tuesday (Jan 9), saying the damage to the synagogue was caused by "extremist students". "Some time ago, a group of extremist students, broke through a few walls in adjacent properties to the synagogue at 784-788 Eastern Parkway, to provide them unauthorised access. Earlier today, a cement truck was brought in to repair those walls," said Seligson. "Those efforts were disrupted by the extremists who broke through the wall to the synagogue, vandalising the sanctuary, in an effort to preserve their unauthorised access." Notably, an anonymous tip about the location and the secret tunnel had been sent to the New York City Fire Department last month. However, when the team responded, all exits were found operable and up to code, according to Amanda Farinacci, a spokesperson for the agency. (With inputs from agencies)

'Something sinister happening': Netizens confused over secret tunnel below NY synagogue

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidR9sDn9jlpRBY" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The US securities regulator said someone briefly accessed its X social media account on Tuesday (Jan 9) and posted a fake message saying it had approved Exchange Traded Funds (ETF) for bitcoin, a move eagerly awaited by the crypto industry.</p>

<p>However, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said it has not yet approved spot bitcoin ETFs and its account on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, had been compromised briefly by an unknown party after about 4 p, Eastern time (2100 GMT). The "unauthorised access has been terminated," the agency said.</p>

<p>It will work with law enforcement to investigate the hack and "related conduct," the SEC said.</p>

<p>X confirmed late on Tuesday that the SEC's account was compromised and said it was because of an "unidentified individual" obtaining control over a phone number associated with the agency's account through a third party.</p>

<p>The social media site owned by Elon Musk also said the SEC did not have two-factor authentication enabled at the time the account was compromised and the hack was not due to any breach of X's systems, citing a preliminary investigation.</p>

<p>The unauthorised post said the SEC had granted approval for bitcoin ETFs on all registered national securities exchanges and included a picture purporting to quote SEC Chair Gary Gensler. The price of bitcoin rose after the post, which was picked up by Reuters and other news media that monitor the SEC's account.</p>

<p>The posting came as the SEC was widely expected on Wednesday (Jan 10) to finally approve a batch of ETFs that track the price of bitcoin, in a potential watershed moment for the crypto industry. The unauthorised post surprised the industry, with insiders scrambling to find out whether it was true and why the SEC would first publish something on social media.</p>

<p>Executives from some ETF issuers, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter, said they were startled and surprised by the initial post on X.</p>

<p>One executive said he was "concerned" that the SEC might delay or withhold approval for spot bitcoin ETFs as a result of the hack.</p>

<p>Two issuers, speaking on condition of anonymity, said it was not immediately clear whether the hack would impact the timeline for approvals of the spot bitcoin ETFs. The SEC is due to deliver a decision on a joint proposal from Ark Investments and 21Shares on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Anthony Tu-Sekine, a lawyer who heads the blockchain and cryptocurrency group at the firm of Seward &amp; Kissel in Washington, said he did not believe the incident would change the likelihood of approvals at this late stage.</p>

<p>Tu-Sekine said it was not clear why someone would do something like that when the approval was already widely expected. “This is really puzzling," Tu-Sekine said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/have-you-invested-in-cryptocurrency-know-how-bitcoin-is-a-good-investment-business-news-wion-586010"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Have you invested in Cryptocurrency? Know how Bitcoin is a good investment</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Brief price spike</strong></h2>

<p>By 4:11 pm ET, the post on the SEC's X account had received at least one million views. Fewer than 20 minutes later, it was no longer visible and appeared to have been deleted.</p>

<p>The price of bitcoin shot up to around $48,000 on the fake post, before falling to below $45,000 minutes later. It was last down 3.15 per cent at $45,513 after the SEC deleted and disavowed the information. Some analysts had expected bitcoin to fall on the ETF approvals, after gaining more than 70 per cent in recent months on the expectation of a greenlight.</p>

<p>The SEC declined to say whether authorities have begun to investigate the compromise or whether the incident will affect potential approvals. The SEC has previously rejected all spot bitcoin ETF proposals over fears of market manipulation.</p>

<p>Accounts on X, like accounts on other social media platforms, are sometimes hijacked by stealing passwords or tricking targets into giving up their login credentials.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wion-business-wrap-bitcoin-surges-past-41000-paytm-pledges-to-enlist-10-mn-merchants-more-666408"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;WION Business Wrap | Bitcoin surges past $41,000, Paytm pledges to enlist 10 mn merchants &amp; more</strong></a></p>

<p>Accounts can also be hijacked by compromising the social media platform itself. In 2020, for example, a teenage hacker and his friends broke into X's internal computer network and seized control of dozens of high-profile accounts, using the access to promote a cryptocurrency scam.</p>

<p>Accounts belonging to Barack Obama, Kim Kardashian, Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk were among those affected at the time.</p>

<p>A spokesperson for X did not respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>“We've come to depend upon this instant social media hit to find out what's going on in the world," James Angel, associate professor at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business. "We're definitely going to be more and more vulnerable to this kind of instant misinformation."</p>


The US securities regulator said someone briefly accessed its X social media account on Tuesday (Jan 9) and posted a fake message saying it had approved Exchange Traded Funds (ETF) for bitcoin, a move eagerly awaited by the crypto industry.

The US securities regulator said someone briefly accessed its X social media account on Tuesday (Jan 9) and posted a fake message saying it had approved Exchange Traded Funds (ETF) for bitcoin, a move eagerly awaited by the crypto industry. However, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said it has not yet approved spot bitcoin ETFs and its account on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, had been compromised briefly by an unknown party after about 4 p, Eastern time (2100 GMT). The "unauthorised access has been terminated," the agency said. It will work with law enforcement to investigate the hack and "related conduct," the SEC said. X confirmed late on Tuesday that the SEC's account was compromised and said it was because of an "unidentified individual" obtaining control over a phone number associated with the agency's account through a third party. The social media site owned by Elon Musk also said the SEC did not have two-factor authentication enabled at the time the account was compromised and the hack was not due to any breach of X's systems, citing a preliminary investigation. The unauthorised post said the SEC had granted approval for bitcoin ETFs on all registered national securities exchanges and included a picture purporting to quote SEC Chair Gary Gensler. The price of bitcoin rose after the post, which was picked up by Reuters and other news media that monitor the SEC's account. The posting came as the SEC was widely expected on Wednesday (Jan 10) to finally approve a batch of ETFs that track the price of bitcoin, in a potential watershed moment for the crypto industry. The unauthorised post surprised the industry, with insiders scrambling to find out whether it was true and why the SEC would first publish something on social media. Executives from some ETF issuers, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter, said they were startled and surprised by the initial post on X. One executive said he was "concerned" that the SEC might delay or withhold approval for spot bitcoin ETFs as a result of the hack. Two issuers, speaking on condition of anonymity, said it was not immediately clear whether the hack would impact the timeline for approvals of the spot bitcoin ETFs. The SEC is due to deliver a decision on a joint proposal from Ark Investments and 21Shares on Wednesday. Anthony Tu-Sekine, a lawyer who heads the blockchain and cryptocurrency group at the firm of Seward & Kissel in Washington, said he did not believe the incident would change the likelihood of approvals at this late stage. Tu-Sekine said it was not clear why someone would do something like that when the approval was already widely expected. “This is really puzzling," Tu-Sekine said. Watch | Have you invested in Cryptocurrency? Know how Bitcoin is a good investment × Brief price spike By 4:11 pm ET, the post on the SEC's X account had received at least one million views. Fewer than 20 minutes later, it was no longer visible and appeared to have been deleted. The price of bitcoin shot up to around $48,000 on the fake post, before falling to below $45,000 minutes later. It was last down 3.15 per cent at $45,513 after the SEC deleted and disavowed the information. Some analysts had expected bitcoin to fall on the ETF approvals, after gaining more than 70 per cent in recent months on the expectation of a greenlight. The SEC declined to say whether authorities have begun to investigate the compromise or whether the incident will affect potential approvals. The SEC has previously rejected all spot bitcoin ETF proposals over fears of market manipulation. Accounts on X, like accounts on other social media platforms, are sometimes hijacked by stealing passwords or tricking targets into giving up their login credentials. Also read | WION Business Wrap | Bitcoin surges past $41,000, Paytm pledges to enlist 10 mn merchants & more Accounts can also be hijacked by compromising the social media platform itself. In 2020, for example, a teenage hacker and his friends broke into X's internal computer network and seized control of dozens of high-profile accounts, using the access to promote a cryptocurrency scam. Accounts belonging to Barack Obama, Kim Kardashian, Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk were among those affected at the time. A spokesperson for X did not respond to a request for comment. “We've come to depend upon this instant social media hit to find out what's going on in the world," James Angel, associate professor at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business. "We're definitely going to be more and more vulnerable to this kind of instant misinformation."

US: SEC claims its X account hacked and gave fake nod to Bitcoin ETFs

<p>A driver was taken into custody after he crashed his vehicle into an exterior gate of the White House complex on Monday (Jan 8). The incident, confirmed by the Secret Service, transpired around 6 pm local time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US&nbsp;Secret Service Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi in a statement said, that although the driver was under custody, the cause and manner of the incident were still being investigated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Shortly before 6 pm, a vehicle collided with an exterior gate on the White House complex.&nbsp;We are investigating the cause &amp; manner of the collision,"&nbsp;said&nbsp;Guglielmi.</p>

<p>Notably, President Joe Biden was not in the White House at the time of the accident but it did cause traffic delays at 15th Street &amp; Pennsylvania Avenue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A little over an hour after the incident, the Washington DC Police Department cleared the suspect's vehicle while lifting the traffic closures, informed Guglielmi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent years, the White House has been extensively fortified by making the fence taller. In 2021, the National Park Service constructed a 13-foot fence with wider, stronger posts to deter jumpers and other public members from climbing over it.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-biden-and-first-lady-safe-after-car-collides-with-motorcade-claims-white-house-wion-670971"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US: Biden and First Lady safe after car collides with motorcade, claims White House</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Previous incident</strong></h2>

<p>The incident comes a few weeks after a Delaware man was charged for accidentally crashing into US President Joe Biden's motorcade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The suspect was identified as James Cooper, 46, who was arrested by&nbsp;Secret Service before being released from custody. Cooper, however, was issued a summons to appear in court later and charged with&nbsp;driving under the influence of alcohol.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-rejects-republican-calls-for-biden-to-sack-austin-678005"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;White House rejects Republican calls for Biden to sack Austin</strong></a></p>

<p>"Following our investigation, Wilmington Police have determined that this was an accidental collision, and have charged the driver of the striking vehicle, a 46-year-old Wilmington man – with Driving a Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol and Inattentive Driving,” said a Wilmington Police Department spokesperson.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Biden was discussing his poll numbers with reporters when Cooper's silver sedan with Delaware license plates slammed into the president's convoy just after 8 pm.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A driver was taken into custody after he crashed his vehicle into an exterior gate of the White House complex on Monday (Jan 8). The incident, confirmed by the Secret Service, transpired around 6 pm local time.

A driver was taken into custody after he crashed his vehicle into an exterior gate of the White House complex on Monday (Jan 8). The incident, confirmed by the Secret Service, transpired around 6 pm local time. US Secret Service Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi in a statement said, that although the driver was under custody, the cause and manner of the incident were still being investigated. "Shortly before 6 pm, a vehicle collided with an exterior gate on the White House complex. We are investigating the cause & manner of the collision," said Guglielmi. Notably, President Joe Biden was not in the White House at the time of the accident but it did cause traffic delays at 15th Street & Pennsylvania Avenue. A little over an hour after the incident, the Washington DC Police Department cleared the suspect's vehicle while lifting the traffic closures, informed Guglielmi. In recent years, the White House has been extensively fortified by making the fence taller. In 2021, the National Park Service constructed a 13-foot fence with wider, stronger posts to deter jumpers and other public members from climbing over it. Watch | US: Biden and First Lady safe after car collides with motorcade, claims White House × Previous incident The incident comes a few weeks after a Delaware man was charged for accidentally crashing into US President Joe Biden's motorcade. The suspect was identified as James Cooper, 46, who was arrested by Secret Service before being released from custody. Cooper, however, was issued a summons to appear in court later and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. Also read | White House rejects Republican calls for Biden to sack Austin "Following our investigation, Wilmington Police have determined that this was an accidental collision, and have charged the driver of the striking vehicle, a 46-year-old Wilmington man – with Driving a Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol and Inattentive Driving,” said a Wilmington Police Department spokesperson. Notably, Biden was discussing his poll numbers with reporters when Cooper's silver sedan with Delaware license plates slammed into the president's convoy just after 8 pm. (With inputs from agencies)

Driver crashes into White House gate, taken into custody by Secret Service

<p>Wayne LaPierre, the former chief executive of the US gun lobby group&nbsp;National Rifle Association (NRA), has been accused of pilfering millions of dollars from the organisation for his personal benefit, the prosecutors said on the first day of a&nbsp;civil trial in Manhattan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Monica Connell, New York’s assistant attorney general made the claim during the opening statements. Apart from&nbsp;LaPierre, two other NRA leaders are also being investigated for squandering the money on luxury travel and other perks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The NRA allowed Wayne LaPierre and his group of insiders to operate the NRA as ‘Wayne’s World’ for decades'. Wayne LaPierre and his friends effectively suppressed the voice of anyone who challenged his leadership,” said Connell.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This case is about corruption in a charity. It’s about breaches of trust, it’s about power. People take their hard-earned money and donate it to charities they believe in," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>LaPierre announced his resignation last Friday (Jan 5) for unstated health reasons. His lawyer later elaborated that&nbsp;&nbsp;LaPierre suffers from chronic Lyme disease.</p>

<p>"I’ve been a card-carrying member of this organization for most of my adult life, and I will never stop supporting the NRA and its fight to defend Second Amendment freedom. My passion for our cause burns as deeply as ever," he wrote in a post.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gun-lobby-in-us-how-does-it-affect-americas-economy-explained-484467"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gun lobby in US: How does it affect America’s economy? Explained</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>NRA throws LaPierre under the bus</strong></h2>

<p>The NRA is hoping to dodge the penalties from the corruption trial by arguing that LaPierre's resignation proved that there&nbsp;was no longer ongoing wrongdoing at the gun lobby. Additionally, NRA has dubbed itself as the victim of "former rogue officers".&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the prosecutors are unmoved by the argument put forth by NRA. According to&nbsp;Attorney General Letitia James, the resignation's timing, three days before the opening statements, suggests it was engineered to gain an advantage at the trial.&nbsp;</p>

<p>James has demanded that LaPierre, who used the NRA coffers as a "piggy bank", reimburse the organisation for years of charging them for private jet travel, trips to the Bahamas, black car services, and gifts for friends and vendors.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/usas-most-powerful-gun-lobby-goes-ahead-with-weapons-convention-just-days-after-texas-school-massacre-482543"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;USA's most powerful gun lobby goes ahead with weapons convention, just days after Texas school massacre</strong></a></p>

<p>She added that LaPierre, alongside other NRA leaders, oversaw a toxic working environment for decades where dissent was stifled and loyalists were awarded excessive pay hikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>LaPierre and his fellow defendants were in the courtroom's front-row seat on the opening day of the trial which is expected to last up to six weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Wayne LaPierre, the former chief executive of the US gun lobby group National Rifle Association (NRA), has been accused of pilfering millions of dollars from the organisation for his personal benefit, the prosecutors said on the first day of a civil trial in Manhattan.

Wayne LaPierre, the former chief executive of the US gun lobby group National Rifle Association (NRA), has been accused of pilfering millions of dollars from the organisation for his personal benefit, the prosecutors said on the first day of a civil trial in Manhattan. Monica Connell, New York’s assistant attorney general made the claim during the opening statements. Apart from LaPierre, two other NRA leaders are also being investigated for squandering the money on luxury travel and other perks. “The NRA allowed Wayne LaPierre and his group of insiders to operate the NRA as ‘Wayne’s World’ for decades'. Wayne LaPierre and his friends effectively suppressed the voice of anyone who challenged his leadership,” said Connell. “This case is about corruption in a charity. It’s about breaches of trust, it’s about power. People take their hard-earned money and donate it to charities they believe in," she added. LaPierre announced his resignation last Friday (Jan 5) for unstated health reasons. His lawyer later elaborated that LaPierre suffers from chronic Lyme disease. "I’ve been a card-carrying member of this organization for most of my adult life, and I will never stop supporting the NRA and its fight to defend Second Amendment freedom. My passion for our cause burns as deeply as ever," he wrote in a post. Watch | Gun lobby in US: How does it affect America’s economy? Explained × NRA throws LaPierre under the bus The NRA is hoping to dodge the penalties from the corruption trial by arguing that LaPierre's resignation proved that there was no longer ongoing wrongdoing at the gun lobby. Additionally, NRA has dubbed itself as the victim of "former rogue officers". However, the prosecutors are unmoved by the argument put forth by NRA. According to Attorney General Letitia James, the resignation's timing, three days before the opening statements, suggests it was engineered to gain an advantage at the trial. James has demanded that LaPierre, who used the NRA coffers as a "piggy bank", reimburse the organisation for years of charging them for private jet travel, trips to the Bahamas, black car services, and gifts for friends and vendors. Also read | USA's most powerful gun lobby goes ahead with weapons convention, just days after Texas school massacre She added that LaPierre, alongside other NRA leaders, oversaw a toxic working environment for decades where dissent was stifled and loyalists were awarded excessive pay hikes. LaPierre and his fellow defendants were in the courtroom's front-row seat on the opening day of the trial which is expected to last up to six weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

Wayne LaPierre: Corruption trial underway against ex-chief of NRA, the most powerful US gun lobby

<p>The US lawmakers on Sunday (Jan 7) reached a $1.4&nbsp;trillion deal over the total amount of spending for the rest of 2024 to avoid a partial government shutdown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Republican and Democrat leaders at Capitol Hill agreed to the budget figure which includes $886 billion for defence and more than $704 billion for non-defence spending.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The signing of the deal was announced jointly by&nbsp;Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate majority leader, and Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“While these final spending levels will not satisfy everyone, and they do not cut as much spending as many of us would like," said Johnson in a letter to his colleagues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This deal does provide us a path to: 1) move the process forward; 2) reprioritise funding within the topline towards conservative objectives, instead of last year’s Schumer-Pelosi omnibus; and 3) fight for the important policy riders included in our House FY24 bills,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden welcomed the deal, stating that the funding framework "moves&nbsp;us one step closer to preventing a needless government shutdown" whilst adding that it protects important national priorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-could-face-its-fourth-partial-government-shutdown-in-a-decade-641071"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Section of Republicans unhappy</strong></h2>

<p>Despite reaching the agreement on overall amount of spending, a section of Republicans are unhappy with the deal.&nbsp;The House Freedom Caucus, a conservative Republican group called the agreement a "total failure".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sad to say but the spending epidemic in Washington continues with both parties being culpable," said Andy Biggs, the former chief of the group.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-likely-to-happen-if-us-government-shutdown-on-october-1-639264"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Explained | What is likely to happen if US government shuts dow</strong></a><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-likely-to-happen-if-us-government-shutdown-on-october-1-639264">n</a></strong>?</p>

<p>The agreement comes a little less than two weeks before the first budget deadline that was set to elapse on January 19. This particular deadline deals with four appropriations areas that include:&nbsp;Agriculture, Rural Development, and the Food and Drug Administration; Energy and Water Development; Military Construction and Veterans Affairs; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development.</p>

<p>The second midnight deadline, set to expire on February 2 focuses on the remaining eight&nbsp;appropriations areas that may lose funding if the bipartisan agreement is not reached.</p>

<p>Missing the first deadline would have meant payment delays to federal employees and severe disruption to many government services deemed non-essential.</p>

<p>In October last year, Congress secured a short-term deal to avoid a federal shutdown temporarily which was signed into a law by President Joe Biden, minutes before the deadline.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US lawmakers on Sunday (Jan 7) reached a $1.4 trillion deal over the total amount of spending for the rest of 2024 to avoid a partial government shutdown. Both Republican and Democrat leaders at Capitol Hill agreed to the budget figure which includes $886 billion for defence and more than $704 billion for non-defence spending.

The US lawmakers on Sunday (Jan 7) reached a $1.4 trillion deal over the total amount of spending for the rest of 2024 to avoid a partial government shutdown. Both Republican and Democrat leaders at Capitol Hill agreed to the budget figure which includes $886 billion for defence and more than $704 billion for non-defence spending. The signing of the deal was announced jointly by Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate majority leader, and Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House. “While these final spending levels will not satisfy everyone, and they do not cut as much spending as many of us would like," said Johnson in a letter to his colleagues. "This deal does provide us a path to: 1) move the process forward; 2) reprioritise funding within the topline towards conservative objectives, instead of last year’s Schumer-Pelosi omnibus; and 3) fight for the important policy riders included in our House FY24 bills,” he added. US President Joe Biden welcomed the deal, stating that the funding framework "moves us one step closer to preventing a needless government shutdown" whilst adding that it protects important national priorities. Watch | Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade × Section of Republicans unhappy Despite reaching the agreement on overall amount of spending, a section of Republicans are unhappy with the deal. The House Freedom Caucus, a conservative Republican group called the agreement a "total failure". "Sad to say but the spending epidemic in Washington continues with both parties being culpable," said Andy Biggs, the former chief of the group. Also read | Explained | What is likely to happen if US government shuts down? The agreement comes a little less than two weeks before the first budget deadline that was set to elapse on January 19. This particular deadline deals with four appropriations areas that include: Agriculture, Rural Development, and the Food and Drug Administration; Energy and Water Development; Military Construction and Veterans Affairs; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. The second midnight deadline, set to expire on February 2 focuses on the remaining eight appropriations areas that may lose funding if the bipartisan agreement is not reached. Missing the first deadline would have meant payment delays to federal employees and severe disruption to many government services deemed non-essential. In October last year, Congress secured a short-term deal to avoid a federal shutdown temporarily which was signed into a law by President Joe Biden, minutes before the deadline. (With inputs from agencies)

US lawmakers reach $1.4tn deal to avoid partial government shutdown

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<p>Government affairs across different state capitols in the US were disrupted briefly on Wednesday (Jan 3) after a bomb threat was emailed to officials. The threats prompted evacuations from buildings but no explosives were found as federal authorities dismissed them&nbsp;as hoaxes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Those that evacuated statehouse offices or buildings included Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi and Montana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said it was aware of the bomb threats but had “no information to indicate a specific and credible threat", adding that it was closely cooperating with state and federal agencies to gather intel.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The FBI takes hoax threats very seriously because it puts innocent people at risk,” it said in a statement.</p>

<p>Officials from some of the state capitols confirmed that they had indeed received threats which prompted the urgent action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Andy Beshear, the Kentucky governor took to X&nbsp;and stated that everyone was safe after the Secretary of State’s Office received the threat, leading to the evacuation of the personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are aware of similar threats made to other offices across the country. We thank our first responders for their quick response, and we will provide more updates," said Beshear.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-more-trouble-for-trump-presidential-bid-ghosts-of-capitol-hill-riots-haunt-trump-wion-674560"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US: More trouble for Trump Presidential bid; Ghosts of Capitol Hill riots haunt Trump</strong></a></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Scott Driscoll of the Connecticut state capitol police told staff and legislators: "Earlier this morning, the Connecticut State Capitol Police received complaints from numerous employees about a suspicious email that was received."</p>

<p>"The email, which apparently was sent to numerous states, claimed to have placed multiple explosives in the Capitol building," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Increase in threats</strong></h2>

<p>Lately, there has been an uptick in threats and attacks on various public buildings across the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, a gunman broke into the Colorado Supreme Court building, fired several rounds of bullets and started a fire in the stairwell. He was apprehended a few hours later with initial reports suggesting former president Donald Trump's ballot ban by the court was what prompted the man to launch the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/days-after-trump-verdict-gunman-breaks-into-colorado-supreme-court-building-676095" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Days after Trump verdict, gunman breaks into Colorado Supreme Court building</strong></a></p>

<p>However, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) later confirmed the two incidents were unrelated. “The CSP and DPD (Denver Police Department) are treating this incident seriously, but at this time, it is believed that this is not associated with previous threats to the Colorado Supreme Court Justices,” it said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Government affairs across different state capitols in the US were disrupted briefly on Wednesday (Jan 3) after a bomb threat was emailed to officials. The threats prompted evacuations from buildings but no explosives were found as federal authorities dismissed them as hoaxes.

Government affairs across different state capitols in the US were disrupted briefly on Wednesday (Jan 3) after a bomb threat was emailed to officials. The threats prompted evacuations from buildings but no explosives were found as federal authorities dismissed them as hoaxes. Those that evacuated statehouse offices or buildings included Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi and Montana. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said it was aware of the bomb threats but had “no information to indicate a specific and credible threat", adding that it was closely cooperating with state and federal agencies to gather intel. “The FBI takes hoax threats very seriously because it puts innocent people at risk,” it said in a statement. Officials from some of the state capitols confirmed that they had indeed received threats which prompted the urgent action. Andy Beshear, the Kentucky governor took to X and stated that everyone was safe after the Secretary of State’s Office received the threat, leading to the evacuation of the personnel. "We are aware of similar threats made to other offices across the country. We thank our first responders for their quick response, and we will provide more updates," said Beshear. Watch | US: More trouble for Trump Presidential bid; Ghosts of Capitol Hill riots haunt Trump × Meanwhile, Scott Driscoll of the Connecticut state capitol police told staff and legislators: "Earlier this morning, the Connecticut State Capitol Police received complaints from numerous employees about a suspicious email that was received." "The email, which apparently was sent to numerous states, claimed to have placed multiple explosives in the Capitol building," he added. Increase in threats Lately, there has been an uptick in threats and attacks on various public buildings across the US. On Tuesday, a gunman broke into the Colorado Supreme Court building, fired several rounds of bullets and started a fire in the stairwell. He was apprehended a few hours later with initial reports suggesting former president Donald Trump's ballot ban by the court was what prompted the man to launch the attack. Also read | Days after Trump verdict, gunman breaks into Colorado Supreme Court building However, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) later confirmed the two incidents were unrelated. “The CSP and DPD (Denver Police Department) are treating this incident seriously, but at this time, it is believed that this is not associated with previous threats to the Colorado Supreme Court Justices,” it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Several US state capitols shut down briefly after receiving hoax bomb threats

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<p>An Oklahoma teenager has become the first person ever to beat Tetris, three decades after the release of the evergreen game. Willis Gibson, 23, who goes by the streamer name Blue Scuti has become the proud owner of the record which has left the gaming community astonished.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gibson posted a video on Tuesday (Jan 2) that showed him breaking the record by entering the game's "kill screen" where things become so chaotic that the signature blocks start falling rapidly, rendering the game unplayable as it cannot continue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, Gibson plays the game for roughly 38 minutes and reaches level 157 before saying, “Oh, I missed it,” believing that he had misplaced a block, scuttling his daring attempt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after the screen froze and the score read '999999' suggesting the game had ended, Gibson erupted in joy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Oh my God! Yes! I’m going to pass out. I can’t feel my hands," he could be heard saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview with a fellow streamer, Gibson dedicated the game to his dad Adam Gibson who died last month. He added that the game became a struggle after half an hour into it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“My biggest struggle was when the nerves started kicking in after 30 minutes of play,” BlueScuti told streamer ITZsharky1.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">13 year old Willis Gibson aka Blue Scuti became the first recorded person to beat Tetris causing the game to freeze after reaching level 157 <a href="https://t.co/uRt3KOasTh">pic.twitter.com/uRt3KOasTh</a></p>
— Jake Lucky (@JakeSucky) <a href="https://twitter.com/JakeSucky/status/1742714929910858174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-announces-rules-to-reduce-spending-on-video-games-672757"><strong>Watch | China announces rules to reduce spending on video games</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Gibson's strategy to achieve the record</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, Gibson, a Tetris prodigy used the “rolling” controller technique, a new way of holding and using the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) controller to achieve the rare feat. Before the rolling method, popularised in 2021, players used to employ the "hyper tapping" technique where one tapped the controller’s D-pad 12 times per second.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under the rolling mechanism, players roll their fingers on the bottom of an NES controller and use that pressure to push the controller into their other hand, which presses the D-pad to move the blocks.</p>

<p>The achievement becomes even more huge as previously, only artificial intelligence computer programmes had beaten Tetris.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/top-mostselling-video-games-of-alltime-1696349431124"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong></a><strong><a data-ved="2ahUKEwj5_OquncODAxXBr1YBHbFBBUkQFnoECBQQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/top-mostselling-video-games-of-alltime-1696349431124" jsname="UWckNb" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/top-mostselling-video-games-of-alltime-1696349431124&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj5_OquncODAxXBr1YBHbFBBUkQFnoECBQQAQ">Top Best-Selling Video Games of All-Time</a></strong></p>

<p>"This is unbelievable. Developers didn't think anyone would ever make it that far and now the game has officially been beaten by a human being," Vince Clemente, CEO of Classic Tetris World Championship was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The game was first released on the NES on June 6, 1984, and as of last year, it had sold over 520 million copies, making it the best-selling video game of all time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Oklahoma teenager has become the first person ever to beat Tetris, three decades after the release of the evergreen game. Willis Gibson, 23, who goes by the streamer name Blue Scuti has become the proud owner of the record which has left the gaming community astonished.

An Oklahoma teenager has become the first person ever to beat Tetris, three decades after the release of the evergreen game. Willis Gibson, 23, who goes by the streamer name Blue Scuti has become the proud owner of the record which has left the gaming community astonished. Gibson posted a video on Tuesday (Jan 2) that showed him breaking the record by entering the game's "kill screen" where things become so chaotic that the signature blocks start falling rapidly, rendering the game unplayable as it cannot continue. In the video, Gibson plays the game for roughly 38 minutes and reaches level 157 before saying, “Oh, I missed it,” believing that he had misplaced a block, scuttling his daring attempt. However, after the screen froze and the score read '999999' suggesting the game had ended, Gibson erupted in joy. “Oh my God! Yes! I’m going to pass out. I can’t feel my hands," he could be heard saying. In an interview with a fellow streamer, Gibson dedicated the game to his dad Adam Gibson who died last month. He added that the game became a struggle after half an hour into it. “My biggest struggle was when the nerves started kicking in after 30 minutes of play,” BlueScuti told streamer ITZsharky1. 13 year old Willis Gibson aka Blue Scuti became the first recorded person to beat Tetris causing the game to freeze after reaching level 157 pic.twitter.com/uRt3KOasTh — Jake Lucky (@JakeSucky) January 4, 2024 × Watch | China announces rules to reduce spending on video games × Gibson's strategy to achieve the record Notably, Gibson, a Tetris prodigy used the “rolling” controller technique, a new way of holding and using the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) controller to achieve the rare feat. Before the rolling method, popularised in 2021, players used to employ the "hyper tapping" technique where one tapped the controller’s D-pad 12 times per second. Under the rolling mechanism, players roll their fingers on the bottom of an NES controller and use that pressure to push the controller into their other hand, which presses the D-pad to move the blocks. The achievement becomes even more huge as previously, only artificial intelligence computer programmes had beaten Tetris. Also read | Top Best-Selling Video Games of All-Time "This is unbelievable. Developers didn't think anyone would ever make it that far and now the game has officially been beaten by a human being," Vince Clemente, CEO of Classic Tetris World Championship was quoted as saying by Reuters. The game was first released on the NES on June 6, 1984, and as of last year, it had sold over 520 million copies, making it the best-selling video game of all time. (With inputs from agencies)

US teenager becomes first player ever to beat Tetris game; shatters records in 38 minutes

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<p>A US judge became the victim of a vicious attack by a criminal who pounced over the defence table and onto her bench during a hearing on Wednesday (Jan 3) in Las Vegas, Nevada.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Judge Mary Kay Holthus from the Clark County District Court was in the middle of delivering a verdict against convicted criminal Deobra Delone Redden when he launched himself at her, much to the horror of everyone present in the courtroom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Instead of climbing through the tables and other hurdles, Redden flung himself over the barriers and tackled the judge onto the ground. While throwing himself onto the judge, he could be heard shouting: "Nah...f*** that b*tch."</p>

<p>In the video going viral on social media, Redden can be seen repeatedly punching the judge as the marshal and other security officials attempt to subdue him. Holthus could also be heard begging Redden to get off.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: A Man attacks Clark County judge inside Nevada court after the judge denied his probation⁰⁰📌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LasVegas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LasVegas</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nevada?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nevada</a>⁰⁰Witness the shocking moment when a 30-year-old three-time felon, Deobra Redden, attacked a Las Vegas judge, forcing her to take cover and injuring a… <a href="https://t.co/YoNegqvIA4">pic.twitter.com/YoNegqvIA4</a></p>
— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/rawsalerts/status/1742678316631441525?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>For the next minute-and-a-half, Redden and the security official continued to jostle as the criminal assaulted the judge. It took more than a couple of security guards to submit Redden who was then put in handcuffs and escorted off the scene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, Judge Holthus received injuries as a result of the assault and her condition is being monitored. The marshal who acted quickly and tamed Redden also sustained injuries and has been hospitalised.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-news-donald-trump-barred-from-colorado-ballot-world-news-wion-671598"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US News: Donald Trump barred from Colorado ballot | World News</strong></a></p>

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<p>Ironically, prior to the sentencing, Redden in his speech asked for leniency from Judge Holthus by describing himself as a person who "never stops doing the right thing".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I'm not a rebellious person. But if it's appropriate for you then you have to do what you have to do," he told the judge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after Judge Holthus made it clear that she was sending him behind bars, Redden lost it and in a fit of rage did what was caught on camera. Notably, Redden was not in custody when he arrived at the court, wearing a white shirt and dark pants, standing next to his defence attorney Caesar Almase.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Richard Scow, the chief county district attorney who prosecuted Redden, commenting on the incident said, "It happened so fast it was hard to know what to do".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/days-after-trump-verdict-gunman-breaks-into-colorado-supreme-court-building-676095"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Days after Trump verdict, gunman breaks into Colorado Supreme Court building</strong></a></p>

<p>30-year-old Redden has had a comprehensive rap sheet both in Nevada and Texas. He has faced charges ranging from battery, robbery, assault, injury to property and coercion. He previously served prison time in Nevada on a domestic battery conviction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Judge Holthus has more than 27 years of courthouse experience and she was elected to the state court bench in 2018 and again in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A US judge became the victim of a vicious attack by a criminal who pounced over the defence table and onto her bench during a hearing on Wednesday (Jan 3) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

A US judge became the victim of a vicious attack by a criminal who pounced over the defence table and onto her bench during a hearing on Wednesday (Jan 3) in Las Vegas, Nevada. Judge Mary Kay Holthus from the Clark County District Court was in the middle of delivering a verdict against convicted criminal Deobra Delone Redden when he launched himself at her, much to the horror of everyone present in the courtroom. Instead of climbing through the tables and other hurdles, Redden flung himself over the barriers and tackled the judge onto the ground. While throwing himself onto the judge, he could be heard shouting: "Nah...f*** that b*tch." In the video going viral on social media, Redden can be seen repeatedly punching the judge as the marshal and other security officials attempt to subdue him. Holthus could also be heard begging Redden to get off. 🚨#BREAKING: A Man attacks Clark County judge inside Nevada court after the judge denied his probation⁰⁰📌#LasVegas | #Nevada⁰⁰Witness the shocking moment when a 30-year-old three-time felon, Deobra Redden, attacked a Las Vegas judge, forcing her to take cover and injuring a… pic.twitter.com/YoNegqvIA4 — R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) January 3, 2024 × For the next minute-and-a-half, Redden and the security official continued to jostle as the criminal assaulted the judge. It took more than a couple of security guards to submit Redden who was then put in handcuffs and escorted off the scene. According to reports, Judge Holthus received injuries as a result of the assault and her condition is being monitored. The marshal who acted quickly and tamed Redden also sustained injuries and has been hospitalised. Watch | US News: Donald Trump barred from Colorado ballot | World News Ironically, prior to the sentencing, Redden in his speech asked for leniency from Judge Holthus by describing himself as a person who "never stops doing the right thing". “I'm not a rebellious person. But if it's appropriate for you then you have to do what you have to do," he told the judge. However, after Judge Holthus made it clear that she was sending him behind bars, Redden lost it and in a fit of rage did what was caught on camera. Notably, Redden was not in custody when he arrived at the court, wearing a white shirt and dark pants, standing next to his defence attorney Caesar Almase. Richard Scow, the chief county district attorney who prosecuted Redden, commenting on the incident said, "It happened so fast it was hard to know what to do". Also read | Days after Trump verdict, gunman breaks into Colorado Supreme Court building 30-year-old Redden has had a comprehensive rap sheet both in Nevada and Texas. He has faced charges ranging from battery, robbery, assault, injury to property and coercion. He previously served prison time in Nevada on a domestic battery conviction. Notably, Judge Holthus has more than 27 years of courthouse experience and she was elected to the state court bench in 2018 and again in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Video | US judge attacked in court by freshly-convicted criminal during sentencing

<p>The United States has reached a deal to extend its military presence at a base in Qatar for another 10 years, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday (Jan 2).</p>

<p>The base in question is the Al Udeid Air Base, which is located in the desert southwest of Doha and hosts the largest US military facility in the Middle East, the source said, asking to not be identified.</p>

<p>The development was reported first by CNN. The US Department of Defense did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The tiny Gulf state has played a key role in mediation talks with Hamas and Israeli officials in relation to the war in Gaza and the release of hostages captured by the Palestinian Islamist group in its October 7 cross-border attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people.</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden has regularly spoken with the emir of Qatar since October 7 on securing the release of hostages held by Hamas and on boosting aid to Gaza, where Israel's assault since the Hamas attack has killed over 22,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-qatar-asks-us-to-form-secret-cell-to-work-on-hostage-issue-661562"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Qatar asks US to form secret cell to work on hostage issue</strong></a></p>

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<p>There has also been criticism of Qatar by some in the US Congress over Hamas' presence in the country. A bipartisan group of 113 US lawmakers on October 16 sent a letter to Biden asking him to put pressure on countries that support Hamas, including Qatar.</p>

<p>Qatar is also a major non-NATO US ally, a designation granted by the United States to close, non-NATO allies that have strategic working relationships with the US military.</p>

<p>The Gulf state has also been a channel for US dialogue with the Taliban since the American pullout from Afghanistan in 2021. It played a role in mediating deals that in late 2023 led to some Americans being freed by Venezuela and Iran in prisoner swaps.</p>


The United States has reached a deal to extend its military presence at a base in Qatar for another 10 years, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday (Jan 2).

The United States has reached a deal to extend its military presence at a base in Qatar for another 10 years, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday (Jan 2). The base in question is the Al Udeid Air Base, which is located in the desert southwest of Doha and hosts the largest US military facility in the Middle East, the source said, asking to not be identified. The development was reported first by CNN. The US Department of Defense did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday. The tiny Gulf state has played a key role in mediation talks with Hamas and Israeli officials in relation to the war in Gaza and the release of hostages captured by the Palestinian Islamist group in its October 7 cross-border attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people. US President Joe Biden has regularly spoken with the emir of Qatar since October 7 on securing the release of hostages held by Hamas and on boosting aid to Gaza, where Israel's assault since the Hamas attack has killed over 22,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Qatar asks US to form secret cell to work on hostage issue × There has also been criticism of Qatar by some in the US Congress over Hamas' presence in the country. A bipartisan group of 113 US lawmakers on October 16 sent a letter to Biden asking him to put pressure on countries that support Hamas, including Qatar. Qatar is also a major non-NATO US ally, a designation granted by the United States to close, non-NATO allies that have strategic working relationships with the US military. The Gulf state has also been a channel for US dialogue with the Taliban since the American pullout from Afghanistan in 2021. It played a role in mediating deals that in late 2023 led to some Americans being freed by Venezuela and Iran in prisoner swaps.

US reaches deal with Qatar to extend presence at largest military base in Middle East

<p>As many as 66 people on board the&nbsp;Nicaragua-bound plane that was sent back to India on "human trafficking" concerns were reportedly from the western state of Gujarat. Initial investigation by the&nbsp;state Crime Investigation Department (CID) has found that these 66 had agreed to pay anywhere between Rs 60-80 lakh ($72,000-$96,000) to immigration agents to cross into the US illegally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In order to migrate illegally to the US, they had agreed to pay between Rs 60 lakh to 80 lakh (in total) to the local agents,” the CID stated, adding that passengers paid an advance of up to Rs 8 lakh ($9,600), including the ticket fees to the agents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The state CID said it has the information of 15 agents, who had promised to facilitate the alleged illegal immigration and that it will soon question them.&nbsp;CID says the majority of the passengers from Gujarat had only studied till the 8th or maximum 12th standard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To expand its probe, Gujarat CID has written to&nbsp;the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and sought details from Dubai authorities on the agency that chartered the flight&nbsp;as well as on the financial transactions to secure visas from the UAE.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/first-visuals-of-passengers-of-plane-grounded-in-france-returns-with-276-indian-passengers-673559"><strong>Watch | First visuals of passengers of plane grounded in France; returns with 276 indian passengers</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>What happened with the plane and passengers?</strong></h2>

<p>On December 21, 303 Indian passengers boarded a Legend Airlines' A340 flight operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines in Dubai. The plane had stopped in Vatry, France for refuelling, where, based on a tip-off that the plane was carrying suspected victims of trafficking - it&nbsp;was grounded for four days.</p>

<p>After being interrogated by the French authorities, the plane landed in Mumbai on December 26, albeit with 276 passengers. The rest applied for asylum and were transferred to a special zone in Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport for asylum-seekers.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plane-held-in-france-with-303-indian-passengers-onboard-departs-for-mumbai-673434">Plane with Indians grounded in France lands in Mumbai, only 276 passengers return</a></strong></p>

<p>Among the passengers who stayed in France were five minors, who have now been taken into the care of child welfare services.</p>

<p>Notably, passengers of the chartered plane had arrived in UAE at different times and each of them had legal tourist visas for entering Dubai. However, they all congregated at the same place and left for Nicaragua together before the flight was cut short in France.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As many as 66 people on board the Nicaragua-bound plane that was sent back to India on "human trafficking" concerns were reportedly from the western state of Gujarat.

As many as 66 people on board the Nicaragua-bound plane that was sent back to India on "human trafficking" concerns were reportedly from the western state of Gujarat. Initial investigation by the state Crime Investigation Department (CID) has found that these 66 had agreed to pay anywhere between Rs 60-80 lakh ($72,000-$96,000) to immigration agents to cross into the US illegally. “In order to migrate illegally to the US, they had agreed to pay between Rs 60 lakh to 80 lakh (in total) to the local agents,” the CID stated, adding that passengers paid an advance of up to Rs 8 lakh ($9,600), including the ticket fees to the agents. The state CID said it has the information of 15 agents, who had promised to facilitate the alleged illegal immigration and that it will soon question them. CID says the majority of the passengers from Gujarat had only studied till the 8th or maximum 12th standard. To expand its probe, Gujarat CID has written to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and sought details from Dubai authorities on the agency that chartered the flight as well as on the financial transactions to secure visas from the UAE. Watch | First visuals of passengers of plane grounded in France; returns with 276 indian passengers What happened with the plane and passengers? On December 21, 303 Indian passengers boarded a Legend Airlines' A340 flight operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines in Dubai. The plane had stopped in Vatry, France for refuelling, where, based on a tip-off that the plane was carrying suspected victims of trafficking - it was grounded for four days. After being interrogated by the French authorities, the plane landed in Mumbai on December 26, albeit with 276 passengers. The rest applied for asylum and were transferred to a special zone in Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport for asylum-seekers. Also read | Plane with Indians grounded in France lands in Mumbai, only 276 passengers return Among the passengers who stayed in France were five minors, who have now been taken into the care of child welfare services. Notably, passengers of the chartered plane had arrived in UAE at different times and each of them had legal tourist visas for entering Dubai. However, they all congregated at the same place and left for Nicaragua together before the flight was cut short in France. (With inputs from agencies)

Passengers on France 'human trafficking' plane paid nearly $100K for illegal US entry

<p>A gunman broke into the Colorado Supreme Court building in the US on Tuesday (Jan 2), firing a pistol multiple times and starting a fire in a stairwell. The&nbsp;suspect&nbsp;has been identified as Brandon Olsen, 44, who was arrested a few hours later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident transpired around 1:15 am according to the Colorado State Patrol (CSP). Olsen fled the scene of a car crash near the&nbsp;Ralph L. Carr Colorado Judicial Center and later shot through a window before entering the building.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Once inside, he forcefully retrieved the keys to other floors from an unarmed security guard. Police said Olsen pointed the pistol at the guard, took the keys and made his way to the seventh floor where he open-fired several shots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man was arrested around 3 am on charges of robbery, burglary and arson. The fire started by him&nbsp;in a stairwell was later extinguished by the Denver Fire Department.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the fire, sprinklers on the seventh floor went off which left standing water in the building. Burnt documents were recovered and bullet damages were reported on the same floor as well, the police said in its report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-news-donald-trump-barred-from-colorado-ballot-world-news-wion-671598"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US News: Donald Trump barred from Colorado ballot | World News</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Colorado justices&nbsp;and Trump</strong></h2>

<p>The incident comes in the backdrop of Colorado's justices receiving threats from the public ever since they barred former president Donald Trump from the presidential campaign.</p>

<p>The Colorado court last month, in a 4-3 ruling, used a rare&nbsp;constitutional provision that bars those from office who&nbsp;“engage&nbsp;in insurrection”.</p>

<p>Trump has been repeatedly accused of fanning the insurrection attempts in the aftermath of 2020 presidential election results.&nbsp;The Colorado Republican Party last week appealed the state&nbsp;Supreme Court's decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michigan-supreme-court-rejects-attempt-to-ban-former-us-president-donald-trump-from-2024-ballot-674242"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Colorado Republicans seek intervention by US Supreme Court in Donald Trump's 2024 ballot disqualification</strong></a></p>

<p>Contrary to earlier reports, the authorities cleared that Tuesday's incident appears unrelated to the Trump case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The CSP and DPD are treating this incident seriously, but at this time, it is believed that this is not associated with previous threats to the Colorado Supreme Court Justices,” the CSP said in a statement, referring to&nbsp;the&nbsp;Denver Police Department.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A gunman broke into the Colorado Supreme Court building in the US on Tuesday (Jan 2), firing a pistol multiple times and starting a fire in a stairwell. The suspect has been identified as Brandon Olsen, 44, who was arrested a few hours later.

A gunman broke into the Colorado Supreme Court building in the US on Tuesday (Jan 2), firing a pistol multiple times and starting a fire in a stairwell. The suspect has been identified as Brandon Olsen, 44, who was arrested a few hours later. The incident transpired around 1:15 am according to the Colorado State Patrol (CSP). Olsen fled the scene of a car crash near the Ralph L. Carr Colorado Judicial Center and later shot through a window before entering the building. Once inside, he forcefully retrieved the keys to other floors from an unarmed security guard. Police said Olsen pointed the pistol at the guard, took the keys and made his way to the seventh floor where he open-fired several shots. The man was arrested around 3 am on charges of robbery, burglary and arson. The fire started by him in a stairwell was later extinguished by the Denver Fire Department. After the fire, sprinklers on the seventh floor went off which left standing water in the building. Burnt documents were recovered and bullet damages were reported on the same floor as well, the police said in its report. Watch | US News: Donald Trump barred from Colorado ballot | World News × Colorado justices and Trump The incident comes in the backdrop of Colorado's justices receiving threats from the public ever since they barred former president Donald Trump from the presidential campaign. The Colorado court last month, in a 4-3 ruling, used a rare constitutional provision that bars those from office who “engage in insurrection”. Trump has been repeatedly accused of fanning the insurrection attempts in the aftermath of 2020 presidential election results. The Colorado Republican Party last week appealed the state Supreme Court's decision. Also read | Colorado Republicans seek intervention by US Supreme Court in Donald Trump's 2024 ballot disqualification Contrary to earlier reports, the authorities cleared that Tuesday's incident appears unrelated to the Trump case. “The CSP and DPD are treating this incident seriously, but at this time, it is believed that this is not associated with previous threats to the Colorado Supreme Court Justices,” the CSP said in a statement, referring to the Denver Police Department. (With inputs from agencies)

Days after Trump verdict, gunman breaks into Colorado Supreme Court building

<p>If reports are to be believed, the pro-Iranian terror outfits have once again struck the US military base of&nbsp;Kharab al-Jir in Syria. The attack took place on Friday (Dec 29) afternoon and follows the pattern of an intensified campaign of violence by the Islamist groups that want a spillover in regional tension.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, the&nbsp;Kharab al-Jir base was attacked in October on two consecutive days. At the time, the attacks were claimed by groups either directly controlled by Tehran or sharing the ideology of other groups currently fighting Israel.</p>

<p>The fresh attack&nbsp;comes in the backdrop of&nbsp;the US&nbsp;military carrying out retaliatory strikes in Iraq after three American soldiers were wounded in a drone attack on December 26 by Iran-aligned terrorists.</p>

<p>A US base in Iraq's Erbil that houses American forces came under attack from a one-way drone earlier on Monday (Dec 25), leaving one soldier in critical condition. The retaliatory attacks were carried out at the discretion of US President Joe Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These strikes are intended to hold accountable those elements directly responsible for attacks on coalition forces in Iraq and Syria and degrade their ability to continue attacks. We will always protect our forces," said&nbsp;General Michael Erik Kurilla, head of US Central Command.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-counterstrike-on-iran-backed-forces-former-retaliates-after-3-troops-hurt-world-news-wion-673669"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US counterstrike on Iran-backed forces, former retaliates after 3 troops hurt</strong></a></p>

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<p>The White House has accused&nbsp;Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria.&nbsp;President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for&nbsp;similar attacks and respond appropriately</p>

<p>“Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said White House spokesman John Kirby at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-retaliatory-attacks-in-iraq-after-militants-target-military-base-leaving-three-injured-673548"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;US carries out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after militants target military base leaving three injured</strong></a></p>

<p>Despite US retaliation, the continuous attacks by Iran-backed non-state actors suggests that Tehran has an extensive&nbsp;network of well-armed, aggressive and well-coordinated proxies across the region which it has established for exactly this scenario.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>


If reports are to be believed, the pro-Iranian terror outfits have once again struck the US military base of Kharab al-Jir in Syria. The attack took place on Friday (Dec 29) afternoon and follows the pattern of an intensified campaign of violence by the Islamist groups that want a spillover in regional tension.

If reports are to be believed, the pro-Iranian terror outfits have once again struck the US military base of Kharab al-Jir in Syria. The attack took place on Friday (Dec 29) afternoon and follows the pattern of an intensified campaign of violence by the Islamist groups that want a spillover in regional tension. Previously, the Kharab al-Jir base was attacked in October on two consecutive days. At the time, the attacks were claimed by groups either directly controlled by Tehran or sharing the ideology of other groups currently fighting Israel. The fresh attack comes in the backdrop of the US military carrying out retaliatory strikes in Iraq after three American soldiers were wounded in a drone attack on December 26 by Iran-aligned terrorists. A US base in Iraq's Erbil that houses American forces came under attack from a one-way drone earlier on Monday (Dec 25), leaving one soldier in critical condition. The retaliatory attacks were carried out at the discretion of US President Joe Biden. "These strikes are intended to hold accountable those elements directly responsible for attacks on coalition forces in Iraq and Syria and degrade their ability to continue attacks. We will always protect our forces," said General Michael Erik Kurilla, head of US Central Command. Watch | US counterstrike on Iran-backed forces, former retaliates after 3 troops hurt × The White House has accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for similar attacks and respond appropriately “Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said White House spokesman John Kirby at the time. Also read | US carries out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after militants target military base leaving three injured Despite US retaliation, the continuous attacks by Iran-backed non-state actors suggests that Tehran has an extensive network of well-armed, aggressive and well-coordinated proxies across the region which it has established for exactly this scenario. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran-backed Islamist terror outfits strike US base in Syria again

<p>A woman plunged to her death from the edge of a cliff at a New York state park while taking photos with her husband last week, the police have informed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nur Aisyah Binte MD Akbar, 39, and her husband&nbsp;Abdul Rauf Bin Mohd Said, 41, both of Singapore were hiking on the&nbsp;Beacon Hill Trail in the Minnewaska State park&nbsp;in the town of Rochester when the accident took place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both stopped to take photos at the edge of the cliff when Binte MD Akbar lost her footing and slipped down the cliff, approximately 70 feet. The husband called 911 which led to multiple agencies converging on the scene for the rescue job.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the New York State Police (NYSP), the NYSP Aviation personnel arrived on the scene and hoisted the victim to safety.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Other responding agencies who assisted in the rescue included NYS Park Police, Park Operations Staff, NYS DEC Forest Rangers, and various Fire and EMT personnel," the police said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The woman was taken to the hospital where she "succumbed to her injuries". "My heart is broken into pieces and I don’t know how to piece them back together," Bin Mohd Said in a Facebook post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police, meanwhile, launched an investigation to find out if there was foul play involved in the accident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the&nbsp;Minnewaska State Park is open to the public for hiking, biking, rock climbing and a range of other recreational activities. According to the State Department of Environmental Conservation, the preserve houses white-tailed deer, coyotes, timber rattlesnakes and more than 200 species of birds, attracting huge public footfall.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-illinois-man-charged-with-a-hate-crime-for-stabbing-a-6-year-old-muslim-boy-to-death-647456"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US: Illinois man charged with a hate crime for stabbing a 6-year-old Muslim boy to death</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Previous instance</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, an individual named&nbsp;Nizamettin Gursu was arrested five months after his girlfriend, Yesim Demir, plummeted off a cliff in Canakkale, a city in northwestern Turkey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the initial investigation, Gursu claimed that his girlfriend fell off the cliff when he was grabbing celebratory food and drinks from his car. However, during the investigation, the police discovered that&nbsp;the ring Gursu claimed to have given Demir after she accepted his proposal was still in its box inside his pocket.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-wife-stabs-husband-in-eyes-with-scissors-for-demanding-tea-674370"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India: Wife stabs husband in eyes with scissors for demanding tea</strong></a></p>

<p>The suspicions increased when police found&nbsp;shattered glasses and a broken music speaker at the couple’s engagement spot, seeming to indicate a physical altercation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A woman plunged to her death from the edge of a cliff at a New York state park while taking photos with her husband last week, the police have informed. Nur Aisyah Binte MD Akbar, 39, and her husband Abdul Rauf Bin Mohd Said, 41, both of Singapore were hiking on the Beacon Hill Trail in the Minnewaska State park in the town of Rochester when the accident took place.

A woman plunged to her death from the edge of a cliff at a New York state park while taking photos with her husband last week, the police have informed. Nur Aisyah Binte MD Akbar, 39, and her husband Abdul Rauf Bin Mohd Said, 41, both of Singapore were hiking on the Beacon Hill Trail in the Minnewaska State park in the town of Rochester when the accident took place. Both stopped to take photos at the edge of the cliff when Binte MD Akbar lost her footing and slipped down the cliff, approximately 70 feet. The husband called 911 which led to multiple agencies converging on the scene for the rescue job. According to the New York State Police (NYSP), the NYSP Aviation personnel arrived on the scene and hoisted the victim to safety. "Other responding agencies who assisted in the rescue included NYS Park Police, Park Operations Staff, NYS DEC Forest Rangers, and various Fire and EMT personnel," the police said. The woman was taken to the hospital where she "succumbed to her injuries". "My heart is broken into pieces and I don’t know how to piece them back together," Bin Mohd Said in a Facebook post. The police, meanwhile, launched an investigation to find out if there was foul play involved in the accident. Notably, the Minnewaska State Park is open to the public for hiking, biking, rock climbing and a range of other recreational activities. According to the State Department of Environmental Conservation, the preserve houses white-tailed deer, coyotes, timber rattlesnakes and more than 200 species of birds, attracting huge public footfall. Watch | US: Illinois man charged with a hate crime for stabbing a 6-year-old Muslim boy to death × Previous instance Earlier this month, an individual named Nizamettin Gursu was arrested five months after his girlfriend, Yesim Demir, plummeted off a cliff in Canakkale, a city in northwestern Turkey. During the initial investigation, Gursu claimed that his girlfriend fell off the cliff when he was grabbing celebratory food and drinks from his car. However, during the investigation, the police discovered that the ring Gursu claimed to have given Demir after she accepted his proposal was still in its box inside his pocket. Also read | India: Wife stabs husband in eyes with scissors for demanding tea The suspicions increased when police found shattered glasses and a broken music speaker at the couple’s engagement spot, seeming to indicate a physical altercation. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Woman falls to her death after slipping off a cliff at New York State park

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<p>In what comes as a bizarre yet horrific incident, two teenage boys have been arrested in Florida after their sister was fatally shot during a row over Christmas gifts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, the shooting followed an argument over who was getting more presents. 23-year-old Abrielle Baldwin was shot in the chest by the youngest sibling, Damarcus Coley, 14, while she had her 10-month-old son in a carrier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Damarcus was then shot by the his older sibling, identified as Darcus Coley, 15, who pulled his semi-automatic gun and discharged it. Sheriff Bob Gualtieri said Darcus ran away from the scene, tossing his gun away before being arrested by the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They had this family spat about who was getting what and what money was being spent on who and they’re having this big thing going on in the store and they’re all arguing with each other,” said Sheriff Bob Gualtieri.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“So you got the 14-year-old who’s mad at the 15-year-old because mom’s not buying equal amounts of gifts.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the argument escalated, the younger teenager threatened to shoot his brother in the head. However, things took a turn for the worse when they all returned to their grandmother's house in Largo, near Tampa.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-student-killed-in-us-americas-gun-problem-becomes-a-global-human-issue-662363"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indian student killed in US | America's gun problem becomes a global human issue</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Charges levelled on the teenage brothers</strong></h2>

<p>While Abrielle died soon after, Damarcus was taken to hospital where he is believed to be in a stable condition. The authorities have said the teenager will be taken into custody as soon as he is released.</p>

<p>The sheriff's office said the younger sibling will be charged with first-degree murder, child abuse, and being delinquent in possession of a firearm. Meanwhile, the older one has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/teenage-girls-stabbed-on-christmas-at-grand-central-by-man-shouting-want-all-the-white-people-dead-674042" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | US: Teenage girls stabbed on Christmas at Grand Central by man shouting: ‘Want all white people dead’</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, Abrielle suffered internal bleeding due to the gunshot and was unable to breathe. The baby in the carrier, however, was not harmed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In what comes as a bizarre yet horrific incident, two teenage boys have been arrested in Florida after their sister was fatally shot during a row over Christmas gifts.

In what comes as a bizarre yet horrific incident, two teenage boys have been arrested in Florida after their sister was fatally shot during a row over Christmas gifts. According to Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, the shooting followed an argument over who was getting more presents. 23-year-old Abrielle Baldwin was shot in the chest by the youngest sibling, Damarcus Coley, 14, while she had her 10-month-old son in a carrier. Damarcus was then shot by the his older sibling, identified as Darcus Coley, 15, who pulled his semi-automatic gun and discharged it. Sheriff Bob Gualtieri said Darcus ran away from the scene, tossing his gun away before being arrested by the police. “They had this family spat about who was getting what and what money was being spent on who and they’re having this big thing going on in the store and they’re all arguing with each other,” said Sheriff Bob Gualtieri. “So you got the 14-year-old who’s mad at the 15-year-old because mom’s not buying equal amounts of gifts.” As the argument escalated, the younger teenager threatened to shoot his brother in the head. However, things took a turn for the worse when they all returned to their grandmother's house in Largo, near Tampa. Watch | Indian student killed in US | America's gun problem becomes a global human issue Charges levelled on the teenage brothers While Abrielle died soon after, Damarcus was taken to hospital where he is believed to be in a stable condition. The authorities have said the teenager will be taken into custody as soon as he is released. The sheriff's office said the younger sibling will be charged with first-degree murder, child abuse, and being delinquent in possession of a firearm. Meanwhile, the older one has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence. Also read | US: Teenage girls stabbed on Christmas at Grand Central by man shouting: ‘Want all white people dead’ Notably, Abrielle suffered internal bleeding due to the gunshot and was unable to breathe. The baby in the carrier, however, was not harmed. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Two teenage brothers arrested after sister shot dead over Christmas presents in Florida

<p>A Christmas holiday turned fatal for an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) family of six in the US state of Texas when they were killed in a traffic accident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The family, hailing from&nbsp;Amalapuram in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, was killed in Johnson County while returning from a relative's house after spending Christmas on December 26.</p>

<p>According to reports, the victims were relatives of&nbsp;a lawmaker from the state's ruling YSR Congress Party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My uncle and his family went from Atlanta to a relative's house in Texas for the Christmas holidays. They visited the zoo on the morning of December 26th and were returning around 4 pm,"&nbsp;YSRCP Mummadivaram MLA Ponnada Venkata Satish Kumar was quoted as saying by Times of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The dead have been identified as&nbsp;P Nageswara Rao, the MLA's uncle, Seetha Mahalakshmi, Naveena, Kruthik, and a young girl called Nishitha. The sixth, also a family member, has not yet been named.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-student-killed-in-us-americas-gun-problem-becomes-a-global-human-issue-662363"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indian student killed in US | America's gun problem becomes a global human issue</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Collision with a truck</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the family was in a minivan during the return trip and was hit by a truck with two youths inside who were driving in the wrong direction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authorities have confirmed that the two occupants of the truck were responsible for the collision and the eventual deaths. The accused are currently in hospital after sustaining injuries themselves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The only survivor of the accident has been identified as one Lokesh&nbsp;who was airlifted and is currently being treated at a Forth Worth hospital. The authorities have described his condition as critical.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-origin-student-stabbed-in-us-indiana-in-critical-condition-with-0-5-chances-of-survival-653693"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;US: Indian-origin student stabbed in Indiana, in critical condition with '0-5%' chances of survival</strong></a></p>

<p>Kumar stated that he was working with the&nbsp;TANA (Telugu Association of North America) as well as US authorities to retrieve the dead bodies of the family members.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are working on bringing back the bodies to Andhra. Two of them were born citizens of the US for which consent from Lokesh, who is currently undergoing treatment, is needed. Therefore, we are weighing our options. TANA&nbsp;representatives Ashok and Srikanth are helping us," added Kumar.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Christmas holiday turned fatal for an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) family of six in the US state of Texas when they were killed in a traffic accident. The family, hailing from Amalapuram in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, was killed in Johnson County while returning from a relative's house after spending Christmas on December 26.

A Christmas holiday turned fatal for an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) family of six in the US state of Texas when they were killed in a traffic accident. The family, hailing from Amalapuram in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, was killed in Johnson County while returning from a relative's house after spending Christmas on December 26. According to reports, the victims were relatives of a lawmaker from the state's ruling YSR Congress Party. "My uncle and his family went from Atlanta to a relative's house in Texas for the Christmas holidays. They visited the zoo on the morning of December 26th and were returning around 4 pm," YSRCP Mummadivaram MLA Ponnada Venkata Satish Kumar was quoted as saying by Times of India. The dead have been identified as P Nageswara Rao, the MLA's uncle, Seetha Mahalakshmi, Naveena, Kruthik, and a young girl called Nishitha. The sixth, also a family member, has not yet been named. Watch | Indian student killed in US | America's gun problem becomes a global human issue Collision with a truck Notably, the family was in a minivan during the return trip and was hit by a truck with two youths inside who were driving in the wrong direction. The authorities have confirmed that the two occupants of the truck were responsible for the collision and the eventual deaths. The accused are currently in hospital after sustaining injuries themselves. The only survivor of the accident has been identified as one Lokesh who was airlifted and is currently being treated at a Forth Worth hospital. The authorities have described his condition as critical. Also read | US: Indian-origin student stabbed in Indiana, in critical condition with '0-5%' chances of survival Kumar stated that he was working with the TANA (Telugu Association of North America) as well as US authorities to retrieve the dead bodies of the family members. "We are working on bringing back the bodies to Andhra. Two of them were born citizens of the US for which consent from Lokesh, who is currently undergoing treatment, is needed. Therefore, we are weighing our options. TANA representatives Ashok and Srikanth are helping us," added Kumar. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Six NRI family members killed in road accident in Texas, day after Christmas

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<p>In what comes as a plot straight out of a Hollywood movie, a 60-year-old woman in the US state of Louisiana has recalled the time she went to hospital with a headache, only to forget memories from the past 30 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The case is from 2018 when then-56-year-old Kim Denicola developed an intense headache and blurry vision during a bible study group session, according to her family. After Denicola woke up in the hospital emergency room, she had no recollection that she was married and had two children, essentially missing the past 30 years of her existence.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Never in my wildest dreams did I get up and go to bible study and think I’m going to wake up in the hospital and I’m going to be 60 years old," Denicola was quoted as saying by WAFB.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last thing Denicola remembered was her final day of school. She remained oblivious to the fact that computers had been developed and that the country had seen several new presidents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Denicola remembers she answered Ronald Regan when the nurse asked her who the president of the United States was back then.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to doctors, Denicola has been diagnosed with extensive amnesia, officially transient global amnesia or TGA. The National Library of Medicine stated that TGA is a&nbsp;“temporary, anterograde amnesia with an acute onset” that mostly affects individuals middle-aged and older".&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the doctors still cannot pinpoint the exact cause for it despite exhaustive tests and scans.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-happens-when-we-die-scientists-might-have-an-answer-636425"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: What happens when we die? Scientists might have an answer</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Denicola's life post memory loss</strong></h2>

<p>Five years later, Denicola says nothing has come back.“They told me, if by now I haven’t gotten it, then I probably won’t.”</p>

<p>Denicola penned her life in the journal pages before her memory-loss incident. However, reading them now makes her believe she is looking into someone else’s life and not every memory is a good one.</p>

<p>“I’ve even gone through some of them and torn the pages out," she said, adding: “I’ve lost a lot of Christmases, so it’s a big deal. It’s unbelievable to me as it probably is to other people."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/taylor-swifts-eras-tour-attendees-experience-post-concert-amnesia-psychologists-weigh-in-599469"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Taylor Swift's Eras Tour attendees experience 'post-concert amnesia'; psychologists weigh in</strong></a></p>

<p>Despite the problems that come with memory loss to such an extent, Denicola is looking at the silver lining. The grandmother says she is re-discovering things she loved and insists that she's moving forward. Denicola said her Christmas dream is to have her entire family back together celebrating under one roof.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In what comes as a plot straight out of a Hollywood movie, a 60-year-old woman in the US state of Louisiana has recalled the time she went to hospital with a headache, only to forget memories from the past 30 years.

In what comes as a plot straight out of a Hollywood movie, a 60-year-old woman in the US state of Louisiana has recalled the time she went to hospital with a headache, only to forget memories from the past 30 years. The case is from 2018 when then-56-year-old Kim Denicola developed an intense headache and blurry vision during a bible study group session, according to her family. After Denicola woke up in the hospital emergency room, she had no recollection that she was married and had two children, essentially missing the past 30 years of her existence. “Never in my wildest dreams did I get up and go to bible study and think I’m going to wake up in the hospital and I’m going to be 60 years old," Denicola was quoted as saying by WAFB. The last thing Denicola remembered was her final day of school. She remained oblivious to the fact that computers had been developed and that the country had seen several new presidents. Denicola remembers she answered Ronald Regan when the nurse asked her who the president of the United States was back then. According to doctors, Denicola has been diagnosed with extensive amnesia, officially transient global amnesia or TGA. The National Library of Medicine stated that TGA is a “temporary, anterograde amnesia with an acute onset” that mostly affects individuals middle-aged and older". However, the doctors still cannot pinpoint the exact cause for it despite exhaustive tests and scans. Watch | Gravitas: What happens when we die? Scientists might have an answer × Denicola's life post memory loss Five years later, Denicola says nothing has come back.“They told me, if by now I haven’t gotten it, then I probably won’t.” Denicola penned her life in the journal pages before her memory-loss incident. However, reading them now makes her believe she is looking into someone else’s life and not every memory is a good one. “I’ve even gone through some of them and torn the pages out," she said, adding: “I’ve lost a lot of Christmases, so it’s a big deal. It’s unbelievable to me as it probably is to other people." Also read | Taylor Swift's Eras Tour attendees experience 'post-concert amnesia'; psychologists weigh in Despite the problems that come with memory loss to such an extent, Denicola is looking at the silver lining. The grandmother says she is re-discovering things she loved and insists that she's moving forward. Denicola said her Christmas dream is to have her entire family back together celebrating under one roof. (With inputs from agencies)

US grandma goes to hospital, wakes up with memory of past 30 years wiped out

<p>An Indian couple in the US state of California was robbed and assaulted by a group of thieves last week. The robbers allegedly followed the couple to their home and struck when the pair pulled up in the driveway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Priyanka Wali, a Kashmiri Pandit-American and daughter of the couple took to social media to share the CCTV footage of the incident and narrated how her parents went through the terrifying ordeal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“On December 22nd at 7:48 PM in Fullerton, CA my father Dr&nbsp;Vijay Wali was assaulted and my mother Dr Wali Jyotika’s purse was stolen containing jewellery and ancestral heirlooms after they returned from the jewellery store in Cerritos. This is calculated organised crime, robbery and assault,” Priyanka recounted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">**CRIME ALERT UPDATE** New footage shows my parents were FOLLOWED for over 16 miles by a Black Honda Odyssey with tinted windows from the jewelry store in Little India Artesia to Fullerton where robbery &amp; assault was committed in their driveway please share if you have any info <a href="https://t.co/n9o5F70M6z">pic.twitter.com/n9o5F70M6z</a></p>
— Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) <a href="https://twitter.com/WaliPriyanka/status/1738800304538398945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to Priyanka, her parents had gone jewellery shopping when the thieves laid a marker upon them. The couple in their white Tesla was followed by a black Honda Odyssey with a tinted window for over 16 miles. The robbers were joined by another white car in the middle and later the thieves from both cars combined to commit the robbery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In one of the footage, Vijay Wali could be seen getting assaulted by one of the robbers as he attempted to make a dash to save his wife.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person," Priyanka said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">**NEW FOOTAGE WITH AUDIO**: The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fullerton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fullerton</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/crimealert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#crimealert</a> <a href="https://t.co/oxtAJYitFr">pic.twitter.com/oxtAJYitFr</a></p>
— Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) <a href="https://twitter.com/WaliPriyanka/status/1738615563398848566?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chicago-news-crew-reporting-on-robberies-gets-robbed-630766"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Chicago news crew reporting on robberies gets robbed</strong></a></p>

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<p>According to reports, the thieves took away the treasured family heirlooms known as&nbsp;dejhoor, which are long earrings with unique hexagon pendants that symbolise marriage.</p>

<p>"I mean, that's ancestral jewellery that's been in our family for so long and it's priceless. That's really the most important thing that we want back," Priyanka was quoted as saying by ABC7.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1989-neelkanth-ganjoo-murder-case-fresh-probe-into-killing-of-kashmiri-pandit-judge-623247"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;1989 Neelkanth Ganjoo murder case: Fresh probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit judge</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, the Walis, both doctors have served Orange County for the last 35 years but the incident has left a deep imprint on them, with the family&nbsp;fearful of security within the community.</p>

<p>The authorities have launched an investigation and are using the multiple security camera surveillance videos to track down the thieves.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Indian couple in the US state of California was robbed and assaulted by a group of thieves last week. The robbers allegedly followed the couple to their home and struck when the pair pulled up in the driveway.

An Indian couple in the US state of California was robbed and assaulted by a group of thieves last week. The robbers allegedly followed the couple to their home and struck when the pair pulled up in the driveway. Priyanka Wali, a Kashmiri Pandit-American and daughter of the couple took to social media to share the CCTV footage of the incident and narrated how her parents went through the terrifying ordeal. “On December 22nd at 7:48 PM in Fullerton, CA my father Dr Vijay Wali was assaulted and my mother Dr Wali Jyotika’s purse was stolen containing jewellery and ancestral heirlooms after they returned from the jewellery store in Cerritos. This is calculated organised crime, robbery and assault,” Priyanka recounted. **CRIME ALERT UPDATE** New footage shows my parents were FOLLOWED for over 16 miles by a Black Honda Odyssey with tinted windows from the jewelry store in Little India Artesia to Fullerton where robbery & assault was committed in their driveway please share if you have any info pic.twitter.com/n9o5F70M6z — Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) December 24, 2023 × According to Priyanka, her parents had gone jewellery shopping when the thieves laid a marker upon them. The couple in their white Tesla was followed by a black Honda Odyssey with a tinted window for over 16 miles. The robbers were joined by another white car in the middle and later the thieves from both cars combined to commit the robbery. In one of the footage, Vijay Wali could be seen getting assaulted by one of the robbers as he attempted to make a dash to save his wife. "The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person," Priyanka said. **NEW FOOTAGE WITH AUDIO**: The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person #fullerton #crimealert pic.twitter.com/oxtAJYitFr — Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) December 23, 2023 × Watch | Chicago news crew reporting on robberies gets robbed × According to reports, the thieves took away the treasured family heirlooms known as dejhoor, which are long earrings with unique hexagon pendants that symbolise marriage. "I mean, that's ancestral jewellery that's been in our family for so long and it's priceless. That's really the most important thing that we want back," Priyanka was quoted as saying by ABC7. Also read | 1989 Neelkanth Ganjoo murder case: Fresh probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit judge Notably, the Walis, both doctors have served Orange County for the last 35 years but the incident has left a deep imprint on them, with the family fearful of security within the community. The authorities have launched an investigation and are using the multiple security camera surveillance videos to track down the thieves. (With inputs from agencies)

Video | Kashmiri Pandit-American couple robbed, assaulted in their driveway

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<p>Japan on Friday (Dec 22) agreed to sell its domestically produced Patriot missiles to the United States as the latter attempts fresh stock up after sending the weapons system to Ukraine.</p>

<p>Washington had been looking to source the missiles as it had nearly run out of ammunition but Japan's strict export policy meant it had to wait some time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the announcement, the White House released a statement saying it welcomed the decision taken by the Japanese government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We welcome the Government of Japan’s announcement today that it will transfer Patriot interceptor missiles to the United States to replenish US inventories," the White House said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Patriot missiles, especially the PAC3 surface-to-air missile defence system, manufactured by Japan is capable of directly targeting individuals and destroying objects. It is the first time that Japan will be exporting a finished lethal weapon system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The appropriate transfer of defence equipment overseas will contribute to...international peace and security, and will also strengthen cooperation with allies and the US," a Tokyo government official was quoted as saying&nbsp;news agency <em>AFP</em>.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-bans-export-of-chemical-weapon-goods-to-russia-expresses-concern-over-nuclear-threats-519876?theme=mobile"><strong>Watch | Japan bans export of chemical weapon goods to Russia, expresses concern over nuclear threats</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Japan's strict weapons export policy</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Under Japan's "Three Principles on Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology" adopted on exports of weapons in 1967, the sales of weapons to communist nations, those under United Nations embargo and countries currently or about to be engaged in an armed conflict is banned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the Patriot missiles set to arrive on the Ukrainian shores sooner than later, experts had raised suspicion over Japan giving the nod to the export of the weapons system.</p>

<p>Several countries have militarily aided Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian offensive on February 24 last year. Japan also offered help to Ukraine. But Tokyo has only sent bulletproof vests, helmets, and medical kits due to Tokyo's pacifist laws forbidding sending weapons to the war-torn country.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-considering-exporting-weapons-to-countries-under-invasion-report-570482"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Japan considering exporting weapons to countries under invasion: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Seeing the allies and their military industries making huge profits, Tokyo may have been charmed into loosening its position. Lifting the ban could suddenly make the Japanese defence sector lucrative once again, bring in a tax windfall and create more jobs while reducing reliance on expensive defence imports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japan on Friday (Dec 22) agreed to sell its domestically produced Patriot missiles to the United States as the latter attempts fresh stock up after sending the weapons system to Ukraine.

Japan on Friday (Dec 22) agreed to sell its domestically produced Patriot missiles to the United States as the latter attempts fresh stock up after sending the weapons system to Ukraine. Washington had been looking to source the missiles as it had nearly run out of ammunition but Japan's strict export policy meant it had to wait some time. After the announcement, the White House released a statement saying it welcomed the decision taken by the Japanese government. "We welcome the Government of Japan’s announcement today that it will transfer Patriot interceptor missiles to the United States to replenish US inventories," the White House said. The Patriot missiles, especially the PAC3 surface-to-air missile defence system, manufactured by Japan is capable of directly targeting individuals and destroying objects. It is the first time that Japan will be exporting a finished lethal weapon system. "The appropriate transfer of defence equipment overseas will contribute to...international peace and security, and will also strengthen cooperation with allies and the US," a Tokyo government official was quoted as saying news agency AFP. Watch | Japan bans export of chemical weapon goods to Russia, expresses concern over nuclear threats × Japan's strict weapons export policy Under Japan's "Three Principles on Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology" adopted on exports of weapons in 1967, the sales of weapons to communist nations, those under United Nations embargo and countries currently or about to be engaged in an armed conflict is banned. With the Patriot missiles set to arrive on the Ukrainian shores sooner than later, experts had raised suspicion over Japan giving the nod to the export of the weapons system. Several countries have militarily aided Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian offensive on February 24 last year. Japan also offered help to Ukraine. But Tokyo has only sent bulletproof vests, helmets, and medical kits due to Tokyo's pacifist laws forbidding sending weapons to the war-torn country. Also read | Japan considering exporting weapons to countries under invasion: Report Seeing the allies and their military industries making huge profits, Tokyo may have been charmed into loosening its position. Lifting the ban could suddenly make the Japanese defence sector lucrative once again, bring in a tax windfall and create more jobs while reducing reliance on expensive defence imports. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan agrees to export Patriot missiles to US facing arsenal depletion

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<p>Gadi Haggai, a 73-year-old US-Israel dual national whom the Hamas terrorists had taken hostage after the events of October 7 has died in captivity, a group representing hostages’ families said on Friday (Dec 22). Haggai was among the 240 people abducted by Hamas from southern Israel and used as a bargaining chip in the ongoing truce deal negotiations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said Haggai's wife remains in captivity and was also wounded in the Oct 7 attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Gadi was a man full of humour who knew how to make those around him laugh. A musician at heart, a gifted flautist, he played in the IDF Orchestra and was involved with music his whole life,” read the statement by the forum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas is yet to confirm Haggai's death and will probably never do as has been the case with other hostages. Although the terror outfit has warned that "time is running out" for the hostages as the war enters its 12th week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-growing-aggression-of-houthis-in-red-sea-attacks-disrupt-shipping-wion-dispatch-672573"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Growing aggression of Houthis in Red Sea, attacks disrupt shipping</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Who was Gadi Haggai?</strong></h2>

<p>According to Israeli media reports, Haggai was a retired chef and a jazz musician, married to 70-year-old Judi Weinstein. The couple together had four kids and were grandparents to seven.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They were on their morning walk in Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7 when the Hamas terrorists entered the region and abducted them.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the couple captured a 40-second video clip that was shared in the group chat. The clip showed Weinstein asking Haggai what the recorded voice on the alert system said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Red alert,” answered Haggai while referring to the warning for the incoming rocket fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A paramedic later told the pair’s children that Weinstein had called for medical help but that they had lost contact with her.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-used-2000-pound-bombs-to-kill-civilians-in-gaza-reports-672570"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Israel used 2,000-pound bombs to kill civilians in Gaza: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>According to the forum, between five to 10 hostages under Hamas captivity hold US citizenship. Since the October 7 attacks, as many as 1,140 people have died, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims Israel's military response has killed 19,667 people, mostly women and children.</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>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Gadi Haggai, a 73-year-old US-Israel dual national whom the Hamas terrorists had taken hostage after the events of October 7 has died in captivity, a group representing hostages’ families said on Friday (Dec 22).

Gadi Haggai, a 73-year-old US-Israel dual national whom the Hamas terrorists had taken hostage after the events of October 7 has died in captivity, a group representing hostages’ families said on Friday (Dec 22). Haggai was among the 240 people abducted by Hamas from southern Israel and used as a bargaining chip in the ongoing truce deal negotiations. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said Haggai's wife remains in captivity and was also wounded in the Oct 7 attacks. “Gadi was a man full of humour who knew how to make those around him laugh. A musician at heart, a gifted flautist, he played in the IDF Orchestra and was involved with music his whole life,” read the statement by the forum. Hamas is yet to confirm Haggai's death and will probably never do as has been the case with other hostages. Although the terror outfit has warned that "time is running out" for the hostages as the war enters its 12th week. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Growing aggression of Houthis in Red Sea, attacks disrupt shipping × Who was Gadi Haggai? According to Israeli media reports, Haggai was a retired chef and a jazz musician, married to 70-year-old Judi Weinstein. The couple together had four kids and were grandparents to seven. They were on their morning walk in Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7 when the Hamas terrorists entered the region and abducted them. Notably, the couple captured a 40-second video clip that was shared in the group chat. The clip showed Weinstein asking Haggai what the recorded voice on the alert system said. “Red alert,” answered Haggai while referring to the warning for the incoming rocket fire. A paramedic later told the pair’s children that Weinstein had called for medical help but that they had lost contact with her. Also read | Israel used 2,000-pound bombs to kill civilians in Gaza: Reports According to the forum, between five to 10 hostages under Hamas captivity hold US citizenship. Since the October 7 attacks, as many as 1,140 people have died, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims Israel's military response has killed 19,667 people, mostly women and children. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

US-Israeli citizen Gadi Haggai taken hostage by Hamas, dies in captivity

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