The United Nations (UN)-backed Yemeni government in Aden said on Tuesday (Jan 21) that the West should seize the opportunity to target the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels' leadership in Yemen while Tehran is weakened.&nbsp;
Speaking to The Guardian, Yemen's Vice President Aidarus al-Zoubaidi said that Iran's reserves in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza left the country massively weakened.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-indicate-to-limit-attacks-in-red-sea-corridor-to-israeli-ships-8637659" rel="dofollow">West Asia crisis: Houthis likely to limit attacks in Red Sea to Israel-affiliated ships</a>
&ldquo;They have one remaining domain and that is Yemen. Now is the time to counter the Houthis and push them back into their position," al-Zoubaidi added.&nbsp;
The vice president of the government in Aden added that Yemen's ground forces should work in cooperation with Western airstrikes as part of a multi-pronged strategy.
<h2>'Iran will not give up on Houthis but...'</h2>
Al-Zoubaidi predicted that Iran would not give up on the Houthis, but on the contrary, double down on its support for the rebels as the last remaining component of its chain of proxy forces.
Also watch | Houthi military claims attack on US aircraft carrier
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The vice president said that the Aden government was willing to provide intelligence advice to all those mounting attacks on Houthi positions.&nbsp;
<h2>Attacks on Houthis by US and UK have not been effective</h2>
Al-Zoubaidi also told The Guardian that the attacks on Houthis by the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) had not been effective as they were not targeting the Houthi leadership or their main locations or headquarters.&nbsp;
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"It&rsquo;s not joined-up, or comprehensive. It&rsquo;s just airstrikes. Joined-up means also a military operation on the ground,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

“They have one remaining domain and that is Yemen. Now is the time to counter the Houthis and push them back into their position," Yemen's vice president said. 

The United Nations (UN)-backed Yemeni government in Aden said on Tuesday (Jan 21) that the West should seize the opportunity to target the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels' leadership in Yemen while Tehran is weakened. Speaking to The Guardian, Yemen's Vice President Aidarus al-Zoubaidi said that Iran's reserves in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza left the country massively weakened. Also read | West Asia crisis: Houthis likely to limit attacks in Red Sea to Israel-affiliated ships “They have one remaining domain and that is Yemen. Now is the time to counter the Houthis and push them back into their position," al-Zoubaidi added. The vice president of the government in Aden added that Yemen's ground forces should work in cooperation with Western airstrikes as part of a multi-pronged strategy. 'Iran will not give up on Houthis but...' Al-Zoubaidi predicted that Iran would not give up on the Houthis, but on the contrary, double down on its support for the rebels as the last remaining component of its chain of proxy forces. Also watch | Houthi military claims attack on US aircraft carrier The vice president said that the Aden government was willing to provide intelligence advice to all those mounting attacks on Houthi positions. Attacks on Houthis by US and UK have not been effective Al-Zoubaidi also told The Guardian that the attacks on Houthis by the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) had not been effective as they were not targeting the Houthi leadership or their main locations or headquarters. Also read | Israeli jets pummel power station, two ports in Houthi-held Yemen "It’s not joined-up, or comprehensive. It’s just airstrikes. Joined-up means also a military operation on the ground,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis | Western nations should seize opportunity to strike Houthis while...: UN-backed Yemeni govt

Iran-backed Yemeni Houthi rebels indicated on Sunday (January 19) that they would limit their attacks in the Red Sea corridor to only Israel-affiliated ships.
Since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023, the Houthis have waded into the conflict with attacks on shipping routes in the Red Sea as a show of support for the Palestinians and Hamas.
The rebel group's attacks have disrupted global shipping, forcing companies to re-route to longer and more expensive journeys around southern Africa.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-striking-houthi-targets-israel-warns-it-will-hunt-its-leaders-8608886" rel="dofollow">West Asia crisis: After striking Houthi targets, Israel warns it will hunt its leaders</a>
Houthis' decision came as the second ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began on Sunday.
<h2>'Stopping sanctions on vessels...'</h2>
The Houthis said that their Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) was stopping sanctions on other vessels which had previously been targeted since November 2023.
For Israeli ships, those &ldquo;sanctions ... will be stopped upon the full implementation of all phases&rdquo; of the ceasefire, it added.
Also watch | World DNA: Houthis to respond to Israel if Yemen attacked during truce
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1901_houthis_730am_pkwo/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1901_houthis_730am_pkwo.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=119&amp;tags=houthis, israel, ceasefire, gaza ceasefire, hamaz," title="Houthis to respond to Israel 'if Yemen attacked during ceasefire'" id="PL_iframe_block-m64yus6f-hd7pivhh-035grvf6"></iframe>
However, the HOCC left open resuming attacks against both the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK), which have launched airstrikes targeting the rebels over their seaborne assaults.
&ldquo;In the event of any aggression ... the sanctions will be reinstated against the aggressor state,&rdquo; the centre said. &ldquo;You will be promptly informed of such measures should they be implemented,&rdquo; it added.
<h2>'Even minor deviations from truce could...'</h2>
A report by the news agency Associated Press on Monday said that the Houthis' announcement might not be enough for global firms to re-enter the route (the Red Sea Corridor) that has been crucial for cargo and energy shipments moving between Asia and Europe.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-prominent-figures-among-90-palestinians-freed-by-israel-in-exchange-for-3-hostages-8635891" rel="dofollow">Prominent figures among 90 Palestinians freed by Israel- Details</a>
Jakob P Larsen, the head of maritime security for BIMCO, the largest international association representing shipowners, told the Associated Press that the Gaza ceasefire was being considered fragile.
&ldquo;It is assessed that even minor deviations from the ceasefire agreements could lead to hostilities, which would subsequently prompt the Houthis to again direct threats against a broader range of international shipping,&rdquo; Larsen said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Since the Israel-Hamas war started, Houthis waded into the conflict with attacks on shipping routes in the Red Sea as a show of support for the Palestinians and Hamas.

Iran-backed Yemeni Houthi rebels indicated on Sunday (January 19) that they would limit their attacks in the Red Sea corridor to only Israel-affiliated ships. Since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023, the Houthis have waded into the conflict with attacks on shipping routes in the Red Sea as a show of support for the Palestinians and Hamas. The rebel group's attacks have disrupted global shipping, forcing companies to re-route to longer and more expensive journeys around southern Africa. Also read | West Asia crisis: After striking Houthi targets, Israel warns it will hunt its leaders Houthis' decision came as the second ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began on Sunday. 'Stopping sanctions on vessels...' The Houthis said that their Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) was stopping sanctions on other vessels which had previously been targeted since November 2023. For Israeli ships, those “sanctions ... will be stopped upon the full implementation of all phases” of the ceasefire, it added. Also watch | World DNA: Houthis to respond to Israel if Yemen attacked during truce However, the HOCC left open resuming attacks against both the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK), which have launched airstrikes targeting the rebels over their seaborne assaults. “In the event of any aggression ... the sanctions will be reinstated against the aggressor state,” the centre said. “You will be promptly informed of such measures should they be implemented,” it added. 'Even minor deviations from truce could...' A report by the news agency Associated Press on Monday said that the Houthis' announcement might not be enough for global firms to re-enter the route (the Red Sea Corridor) that has been crucial for cargo and energy shipments moving between Asia and Europe. Also read | Prominent figures among 90 Palestinians freed by Israel- Details Jakob P Larsen, the head of maritime security for BIMCO, the largest international association representing shipowners, told the Associated Press that the Gaza ceasefire was being considered fragile. “It is assessed that even minor deviations from the ceasefire agreements could lead to hostilities, which would subsequently prompt the Houthis to again direct threats against a broader range of international shipping,” Larsen said. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Houthis likely to limit attacks in Red Sea to Israel-affiliated ships

Lebanese President-elect Joseph Aoun appointed veteran diplomat Nawaf Salam as the new prime minister of Lebanon on Monday (Jan 13) amid the ongoing economic crisis in the war-torn country.&nbsp;
Salam was picked after a majority of Lebanese lawmakers endorsed him and he received the necessary votes in parliament.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icj-judge-nawaf-salam-appointed-as-lebanon-prime-minister-by-president-joseph-aoun-8619298" rel="dofollow"> ICJ judge Nawaf Salam appointed as Lebanon Prime Minister by President Joseph Aoun</a>
He will be tasked with forming a new government, which will potentially face significant challenges amid the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/west-asia-crisis" rel="dofollow">West Asia crisis</a>.&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Nawaf Salam?</h2>
Nawaf Salam, a 53-year-old veteran diplomat, was born in Beirut. He is currently serving as President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the UN's top court that recently ruled that Israel was plausibly committing genocide in Gaza.&nbsp;
After being appointed as the ICJ president, Salam was called "anti-Israel" due to his previous criticisms of Israel's illegal and brutal occupation of the Palestinian territories.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-elects-army-chief-joseph-aoun-as-president-amid-west-asia-unrest-8605349" rel="dofollow">Who is Joseph Aoun? Lebanon&rsquo;s new US-backed President</a>
He earned his degree in Social Sciences from the School of Graduate Studies in Paris in 1974, followed by a doctorate in history from the Sorbonne University in Paris in 1979.
Later, he did his Masters in Law from Harvard Law School in 1991. He is married to Sahar Baassiri, who is a journalist and Lebanon's ambassador to UNESCO.&nbsp;
Salam's father, Abdullah Salam was one of the founders of the Lebanese national airline, Middle East Airlines.
Moreover, his uncle Saeb Salam was the prime minister of Lebanon four times between 1952 and 1973.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-divert-95-million-military-aid-to-lebanon-from-egypt-8600781" rel="dofollow">US to divert $95 million military aid to Lebanon from Egypt</a>
Salam was also the Representative of Lebanon to the UN Economic and Social Council in 2016 and 2018.
In the country, he is popular for his opposition to Hezbollah as an independent, reformist, who insists on restricting the right to use weapons to the national military and security agencies solely responsible for protecting Lebanese territory.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: Nawaf Salam was picked as Lebanon new prime minister after a majority of Lebanese lawmakers endorsed him and he received the necessary votes in parliament. 

Lebanese President-elect Joseph Aoun appointed veteran diplomat Nawaf Salam as the new prime minister of Lebanon on Monday (Jan 13) amid the ongoing economic crisis in the war-torn country. Salam was picked after a majority of Lebanese lawmakers endorsed him and he received the necessary votes in parliament. Also read: ICJ judge Nawaf Salam appointed as Lebanon Prime Minister by President Joseph Aoun He will be tasked with forming a new government, which will potentially face significant challenges amid the ongoing West Asia crisis. Who is Nawaf Salam? Nawaf Salam, a 53-year-old veteran diplomat, was born in Beirut. He is currently serving as President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the UN's top court that recently ruled that Israel was plausibly committing genocide in Gaza. After being appointed as the ICJ president, Salam was called "anti-Israel" due to his previous criticisms of Israel's illegal and brutal occupation of the Palestinian territories. Also read: Who is Joseph Aoun? Lebanon’s new US-backed President He earned his degree in Social Sciences from the School of Graduate Studies in Paris in 1974, followed by a doctorate in history from the Sorbonne University in Paris in 1979. Later, he did his Masters in Law from Harvard Law School in 1991. He is married to Sahar Baassiri, who is a journalist and Lebanon's ambassador to UNESCO. Salam's father, Abdullah Salam was one of the founders of the Lebanese national airline, Middle East Airlines. Moreover, his uncle Saeb Salam was the prime minister of Lebanon four times between 1952 and 1973. Also read: US to divert $95 million military aid to Lebanon from Egypt Salam was also the Representative of Lebanon to the UN Economic and Social Council in 2016 and 2018. In the country, he is popular for his opposition to Hezbollah as an independent, reformist, who insists on restricting the right to use weapons to the national military and security agencies solely responsible for protecting Lebanese territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Nawaf Salam? ICJ president turned Lebanon's new prime minister

Israel on Thursday (Jan 9) welcomed the election of Lebanese Army chief Joseph Aoun as Lebanon's president. The new president of Lebanon was elected after a ceasefire between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah after over a yearlong&nbsp;conflict.
In a post on X, Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said, "I hope that this choice will contribute towards stability, a better future for Lebanon and its people and to good neighbourly relations."
<h2>Lebanese Parliament elects Aoun as president</h2>
Earlier on Thursday, Lebanese Parliament elected Joseph Aou as president.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-elects-army-chief-joseph-aoun-as-president-amid-west-asia-unrest-8605349" rel="dofollow">Who is Joseph Aoun? Lebanon&rsquo;s new US-backed president</a>
Aoun fell short of the 86 votes needed in a first-round vote but crossed the threshold with 99 votes in the second round, according to Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, after lawmakers from Hezbollah and its Shi'ite ally, the&nbsp;Amal Movement, backed him.
His appointment reflected shifts in the power balance in Lebanon&nbsp;and the wider West Asia, with Hezbollah badly pummeled from last year's war with Israel, and its Syrian ally Bashar al-Assad toppled in December.
After being sworn in, Aoun said, "Today, a new phase in&nbsp;Lebanon's history begins."
Aoun said he would call for "quick parliamentary consultations" on naming a new prime minister and vowing that the state would have "a monopoly" on arms after the war between Israel and Hezbollah.
<h2>Iran, France react to Aoun's election</h2>
The Iranian embassy in Beirut welcomed the election of Joseph Aoun as Lebanese president, expressing hopes for close cooperation between the two countries.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-divert-95-million-military-aid-to-lebanon-from-egypt-8600781" rel="dofollow">US to divert $95 million military aid to Lebanon from Egypt</a>
France, meanwhile, congratulated Aoun and urged the formation of a strong government.
"We... are committed to working closely with President Aoun as he begins his efforts to unite the country, implement reforms and secure a prosperous future for&nbsp;Lebanon," the US embassy in Lebanon said in a post on X.&nbsp;
Qatar praised Aoun's appointment and called for stability in Lebanon.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Middle East: On Jan 9, Joseph Aou was made the president of Lebanon amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.


Israel on Thursday (Jan 9) welcomed the election of Lebanese Army chief Joseph Aoun as Lebanon's president. The new president of Lebanon was elected after a ceasefire between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah after over a yearlong conflict. In a post on X, Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said, "I hope that this choice will contribute towards stability, a better future for Lebanon and its people and to good neighbourly relations." Lebanese Parliament elects Aoun as president Earlier on Thursday, Lebanese Parliament elected Joseph Aou as president. Also read | Who is Joseph Aoun? Lebanon’s new US-backed president Aoun fell short of the 86 votes needed in a first-round vote but crossed the threshold with 99 votes in the second round, according to Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, after lawmakers from Hezbollah and its Shi'ite ally, the Amal Movement, backed him. His appointment reflected shifts in the power balance in Lebanon and the wider West Asia, with Hezbollah badly pummeled from last year's war with Israel, and its Syrian ally Bashar al-Assad toppled in December. After being sworn in, Aoun said, "Today, a new phase in Lebanon's history begins." Aoun said he would call for "quick parliamentary consultations" on naming a new prime minister and vowing that the state would have "a monopoly" on arms after the war between Israel and Hezbollah. Iran, France react to Aoun's election The Iranian embassy in Beirut welcomed the election of Joseph Aoun as Lebanese president, expressing hopes for close cooperation between the two countries. Also read | US to divert $95 million military aid to Lebanon from Egypt France, meanwhile, congratulated Aoun and urged the formation of a strong government. "We... are committed to working closely with President Aoun as he begins his efforts to unite the country, implement reforms and secure a prosperous future for Lebanon," the US embassy in Lebanon said in a post on X. Qatar praised Aoun's appointment and called for stability in Lebanon. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Hope new Lebanon president will help achieve 'stability,' says Israel

The foreign ministers of Germany and France met Syria's de-facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus on Friday (January 3) on behalf of the European Union (EU).
German Foreign Minister&nbsp;Annalena Baerbock and her French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot said that they wanted to forge a new relationship with Syria and urged a peaceful transition of power.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-education-minister-defends-changes-in-school-curriculum-amid-criticism-8586108" rel="dofollow">Syria's education minister defends changes in school curriculum amid criticism. Cites THIS reason</a>
The meeting took place at the Damascus People's Palace.
<h2>Baerbock, Barrot first EU ministers to visit Syria post-Assad's ouster</h2>
Baerbock and Barrot became the first ministers from the EU to visit Syria post the rebel offensive led by Ahmed al-Sharaa's Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group which led to the ouster of Bashar al-Assad last month.&nbsp;
Footage published by news agencies showed Baerbock and Barrot sitting&nbsp;with Sharaa for talks at the presidential palace.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-new-leader-holds-meeting-with-ukraines-foreign-minister-8577983" rel="dofollow">Syria&rsquo;s new leader holds meeting with Ukraine's foreign minister</a>
Last month, France and Germany had both sent lower-level delegations to Syria. This came as a series of foreign envoys travelled to the country post-Assad's ouster.&nbsp;
<h2>Germany, France FMs express hopes of a safe, peaceful Syria</h2>
Barrot expressed hope for a "sovereign, stable, and peaceful" Syria. It was also a "hope that the aspirations of all Syrians can be realised", he added, "but it is a fragile hope."
Meanwhile, Baerbock said in a statement that Germany wanted to help Syria become a "safe home" for all its people, and a "functioning state, with full control over its territory."
She said the visit was a "clear signal" to Damascus of the possibility of a new relationship between&nbsp;Syria and Germany, and Europe more broadly.
Despite HTS being designated a terrorist organisation by several international governments, the German foreign minister said, "We must not miss the opportunity to support the Syrian people at this important crossroads."
Berlin was ready to support "an inclusive and peaceful transfer of power", as well as social "reconciliation", Baerbock said.
She also urged Syria's new leaders to avoid "acts of vengeance against groups within the population."
(With inputs from agencies)

Last month, France and Germany had both sent lower-level delegations to Syria. Footage published by news agencies showed Baerbock and Barrot seat with Sharaa for talks at the presidential palace.

The foreign ministers of Germany and France met Syria's de-facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus on Friday (January 3) on behalf of the European Union (EU). German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and her French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot said that they wanted to forge a new relationship with Syria and urged a peaceful transition of power. Also read | Syria's education minister defends changes in school curriculum amid criticism. Cites THIS reason The meeting took place at the Damascus People's Palace. Baerbock, Barrot first EU ministers to visit Syria post-Assad's ouster Baerbock and Barrot became the first ministers from the EU to visit Syria post the rebel offensive led by Ahmed al-Sharaa's Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group which led to the ouster of Bashar al-Assad last month. Footage published by news agencies showed Baerbock and Barrot sitting with Sharaa for talks at the presidential palace. Also read | Syria’s new leader holds meeting with Ukraine's foreign minister Last month, France and Germany had both sent lower-level delegations to Syria. This came as a series of foreign envoys travelled to the country post-Assad's ouster. Germany, France FMs express hopes of a safe, peaceful Syria Barrot expressed hope for a "sovereign, stable, and peaceful" Syria. It was also a "hope that the aspirations of all Syrians can be realised", he added, "but it is a fragile hope." Meanwhile, Baerbock said in a statement that Germany wanted to help Syria become a "safe home" for all its people, and a "functioning state, with full control over its territory." She said the visit was a "clear signal" to Damascus of the possibility of a new relationship between Syria and Germany, and Europe more broadly. Despite HTS being designated a terrorist organisation by several international governments, the German foreign minister said, "We must not miss the opportunity to support the Syrian people at this important crossroads." Berlin was ready to support "an inclusive and peaceful transfer of power", as well as social "reconciliation", Baerbock said. She also urged Syria's new leaders to avoid "acts of vengeance against groups within the population." (With inputs from agencies)

Want to forge a new relationship with Damascus: German, French foreign ministers meet Syria's de facto leader

Syria's Education Minister Nazir al-Qadir on Thursday (Jan 2) defended the changes in the country's school curriculum, which were widely criticised.
In a statement shared on Telegram, Education Minister al-Qadir said that the changes were only meant to scrap the glorifying references to ousted president Bashar al-Assad and correct the misinterpretations of the Quran.
"The curricula in all Syrian schools will remain as is until specialised committees are formed to review and audit them," al-Qadir said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-praises-syrian-resistance-says-us-will-leave-the-region-in-humiliation-8583654" rel="dofollow">Iran&rsquo;s Khamenei praises Syrian resistance, says &lsquo;US will leave the region in humiliation&rsquo;</a>
"We have only ordered the deletion of parts glorifying the defunct Assad regime, and we have adopted pictures of the Syrian Revolution flag instead of the defunct regime flag," he added.
<h2>What has been changed in the curriculum?</h2>
The education ministry announced the changes on Wednesday in a post on Facebook.
The changes included scrapping poetry relating to women and love and references to "Gods" in ancient history courses and interpreting a Quranic verse about those who had angered God and strayed as referring to "Jews and Nasara", a derogatory term for Christians.
Syria's national anthem was also removed from textbooks, with the ministry describing it as the anthem of the fallen Assad government.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-military-bombs-isis-positions-in-syria-the-first-since-fall-of-assad-govt-8581341" rel="dofollow">French military bombs ISIS positions in Syria, the first since fall of Assad govt</a>
The nationalistic phrase "to sacrifice one's life in defence of his homeland" has been replaced with the Islamist "to sacrifice one's life for the sake of Allah."
<h2>Outrage over the changes</h2>
Many took to social media to express outrage over the changes in the curriculum. Critics warned that "education based on extremist ideologies may shape individuals whose ideas threaten regional and international security."
"Changing the curriculum under the supervision of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) is not just an educational danger, but a long-term threat to the social fabric and future of Syria," journalist Shiyar Khaleal said in a post on Facebook.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-new-leader-ahmed-al-sharaa-says-need-to-rewrite-constitution-before-elections-happen-urges-us-to-lift-sanctions-8576403" rel="dofollow">Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa urges US to lift sanctions, blames Assad regime for them</a>
Since the ouster of Assad last month following the rebel offensive led by the HTS, the new authorities face the challenge of rebuilding state institutions shaped by the Assad family's 50-year rule.&nbsp;
<h2>Germany plans major boost for Syrian schools</h2>
The changes to the curriculum came days after Germany said it would back $62.70 million worth of projects in Syria to boost education, women's rights, and other areas in the aftermath of Assad's ouster.
In a statement, Development Minister Svenja Schulze said, "We have clearly formulated our expectations: an education system free of ideology, discrimination, and exclusion."
&nbsp;

World, Middle East: Defending the changes, Syria's Education Minister Nazir al-Qadir said the changes were only meant to scrap the glorifying references to Bashar al-Assad and correct the misinterpretations of the Quran.

Syria's Education Minister Nazir al-Qadir on Thursday (Jan 2) defended the changes in the country's school curriculum, which were widely criticised. In a statement shared on Telegram, Education Minister al-Qadir said that the changes were only meant to scrap the glorifying references to ousted president Bashar al-Assad and correct the misinterpretations of the Quran. "The curricula in all Syrian schools will remain as is until specialised committees are formed to review and audit them," al-Qadir said. Also read | Iran’s Khamenei praises Syrian resistance, says ‘US will leave the region in humiliation’ "We have only ordered the deletion of parts glorifying the defunct Assad regime, and we have adopted pictures of the Syrian Revolution flag instead of the defunct regime flag," he added. What has been changed in the curriculum? The education ministry announced the changes on Wednesday in a post on Facebook. The changes included scrapping poetry relating to women and love and references to "Gods" in ancient history courses and interpreting a Quranic verse about those who had angered God and strayed as referring to "Jews and Nasara", a derogatory term for Christians. Syria's national anthem was also removed from textbooks, with the ministry describing it as the anthem of the fallen Assad government. Also read | French military bombs ISIS positions in Syria, the first since fall of Assad govt The nationalistic phrase "to sacrifice one's life in defence of his homeland" has been replaced with the Islamist "to sacrifice one's life for the sake of Allah." Outrage over the changes Many took to social media to express outrage over the changes in the curriculum. Critics warned that "education based on extremist ideologies may shape individuals whose ideas threaten regional and international security." "Changing the curriculum under the supervision of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) is not just an educational danger, but a long-term threat to the social fabric and future of Syria," journalist Shiyar Khaleal said in a post on Facebook. Also read | Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa urges US to lift sanctions, blames Assad regime for them Since the ouster of Assad last month following the rebel offensive led by the HTS, the new authorities face the challenge of rebuilding state institutions shaped by the Assad family's 50-year rule. Germany plans major boost for Syrian schools The changes to the curriculum came days after Germany said it would back $62.70 million worth of projects in Syria to boost education, women's rights, and other areas in the aftermath of Assad's ouster. In a statement, Development Minister Svenja Schulze said, "We have clearly formulated our expectations: an education system free of ideology, discrimination, and exclusion."

Syria's education minister defends changes in school curriculum amid criticism. Cites THIS reason

There seems no near end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.&nbsp;
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian terrorist group Hamas that started the Gaza war.
Israel has killed top leaders of the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group,&nbsp;including Hassan Nasrallah.
<h2>A deep infiltration into Hezbollah</h2>
On Sunday (Dec 29), American media reported that Israel's spy network had infiltrated very deeply into all aspects of Hezbollah's leadership, so much so that Tel Aviv found out about one senior Hezbollah commander's four mistresses and his desperate plan to marry them.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-blasts-work-began-on-weaponising-walkie-talkies-over-a-decade-ago-say-ex-mossad-agents-786215" rel="dofollow">Lebanon blasts: Work began on weaponising walkie-talkies over a decade ago, say ex-Mossad agents</a>
Israeli intelligence recruited people to plant listening devices in Hezbollah bunkers and also had near-constant visibility into the movements of the group's leaders.
<h2>The Hezbollah leader and his marriage proposal</h2>
According to a report by The New York Times (NYT), the Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone&nbsp;was identified as Fuad Shukr.
Shukr, a co-founder of Hezbollah, was a key figure in the militant group's command chain. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike in July.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-minister-katz-threatens-to-crush-hezbollahs-head-if-they-violates-ceasefire-785988" rel="dofollow">Israeli minister Katz threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if it violates ceasefire</a>
Israeli and European officials familiar with the developments told NYT that Shukr juggled four different mistresses&mdash;something he allegedly felt guilty about and sought to correct by marrying all four of them.
<h2>Shukr sought help from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric</h2>
Shukr's extramarital affairs&nbsp;were kept hidden until he sought help earlier this year from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric, Hashem Safieddine.
Safieddine, who was also killed in an airstrike after being named successor to Hassan Nasrallah, allegedly gave Shukr advice.&nbsp;
The cleric then set up four separate over-the-phone wedding ceremonies for Shukr and each of his mistresses. 
The NYT report also said that it was not known when the wedding ceremonies took place, but the unions did not last for long.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: The Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone was identified as Fuad Shukr. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike earlier this year. 

There seems no near end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian terrorist group Hamas that started the Gaza war. Israel has killed top leaders of the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group, including Hassan Nasrallah. A deep infiltration into Hezbollah On Sunday (Dec 29), American media reported that Israel's spy network had infiltrated very deeply into all aspects of Hezbollah's leadership, so much so that Tel Aviv found out about one senior Hezbollah commander's four mistresses and his desperate plan to marry them. Also read | Lebanon blasts: Work began on weaponising walkie-talkies over a decade ago, say ex-Mossad agents Israeli intelligence recruited people to plant listening devices in Hezbollah bunkers and also had near-constant visibility into the movements of the group's leaders. The Hezbollah leader and his marriage proposal According to a report by The New York Times (NYT), the Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone was identified as Fuad Shukr. Shukr, a co-founder of Hezbollah, was a key figure in the militant group's command chain. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike in July. Also read | Israeli minister Katz threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if it violates ceasefire Israeli and European officials familiar with the developments told NYT that Shukr juggled four different mistresses—something he allegedly felt guilty about and sought to correct by marrying all four of them. Shukr sought help from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric Shukr's extramarital affairs were kept hidden until he sought help earlier this year from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric, Hashem Safieddine. Safieddine, who was also killed in an airstrike after being named successor to Hassan Nasrallah, allegedly gave Shukr advice. The cleric then set up four separate over-the-phone wedding ceremonies for Shukr and each of his mistresses. The NYT report also said that it was not known when the wedding ceremonies took place, but the unions did not last for long. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel finds THIS Hezbollah commander's desparate plan to marry four women: Report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/israel" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Israel</a>, for the first time, used the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-thaad-to-israel-what-you-should-know-about-this-powerful-missile-defence-system-767195">American Terminal High Altitude Area Defense</a> (THAAD) missile defence system to intercept a ballistic missile launched from Yemen on Friday (Dec 27), The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;
The missile was fired by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, according to reports.
The US deployed the THAAD system in Israel in October. This marks the first time, Israel used the system to intercept a ballistic missile.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-terrorist-stronghold-israeli-forces-evacuate-kamal-adwan-hospital-in-northern-gaza-8571717" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Israeli forces evacuate Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza</a>
The footage of the system launch was circulated on social media, in which an American soldier was heard saying, "Eighteen years I've been waiting for this."&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m587jbf7-bhov8gy0-bhhu4ko8">
מערכת ה- THAAD האמריקנית לקחה חלק ביירוט הטיל הבליסטי ששוגר אמש מתימן. אפשר לשמוע את אחד החיילים האמריקניים מתרגש "18 שנים חיכיתי לזה" <a href="https://t.co/s4VoMfMhaF">pic.twitter.com/s4VoMfMhaF</a>
&mdash; איתי בלומנטל 🇮🇱 Itay Blumental (@ItayBlumental) <a href="https://twitter.com/ItayBlumental/status/1872649121498296761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
The THAAD, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System was used to try to intercept the missile and an analysis would determine THAAD's success, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters, reported The Times of Israel.&nbsp;
However, Israel did not claim whether they used an Israeli or an American system.&nbsp;
The IDF said the Houthi missile was intercepted by air defenses, without specifying if this was an Israeli or American system.
<h2 class="left">What is the THAAD System?</h2>
Following Iran's October 1 ballistic missile attack, the US deployed a THAAD battery in Israel. The system is capable of intercepting missiles both inside and outside of the Earth's atmosphere.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-houthis-uncover-mossad-cia-spy-network-as-israel-shifts-focus-to-yemen-8566732" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Also read: Houthis &lsquo;uncover&rsquo; Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen</a>
THAAD relies on kinetic energy to neutralise threats and destroy incoming missiles through impact rather than an explosive warhead.
Further, a standard THAAD battery includes six truck-mounted launchers and each of them is capable of holding up to eight interceptors, along with a radar and a fire control system.&nbsp;
The system can detect threats from a range of 870 to 3,000 kilometres.&nbsp;
In the past eight days, this is the fifth such attack by the Iran-backed Houthi group on Israel.
&nbsp;Houthis had earlier claimed to have targeted Ben Gurion Airport after which Israel retaliated and launched strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, including the Hezyaz power plant and infrastructure at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-tedros-narrowly-escaped-israeli-attack-on-yemen-airport-8573279">Sanaa International Airport</a>.
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: THAAD, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System was used to try to intercept the missile and an analysis would determine THAAD's success.

Israel, for the first time, used the American Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defence system to intercept a ballistic missile launched from Yemen on Friday (Dec 27), The Times of Israel reported. The missile was fired by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, according to reports. The US deployed the THAAD system in Israel in October. This marks the first time, Israel used the system to intercept a ballistic missile. Also read: Israeli forces evacuate Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza The footage of the system launch was circulated on social media, in which an American soldier was heard saying, "Eighteen years I've been waiting for this." Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. מערכת ה- THAAD האמריקנית לקחה חלק ביירוט הטיל הבליסטי ששוגר אמש מתימן. אפשר לשמוע את אחד החיילים האמריקניים מתרגש "18 שנים חיכיתי לזה" pic.twitter.com/s4VoMfMhaF — איתי בלומנטל 🇮🇱 Itay Blumental (@ItayBlumental) December 27, 2024 The THAAD, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System was used to try to intercept the missile and an analysis would determine THAAD's success, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters, reported The Times of Israel. However, Israel did not claim whether they used an Israeli or an American system. The IDF said the Houthi missile was intercepted by air defenses, without specifying if this was an Israeli or American system. What is the THAAD System? Following Iran's October 1 ballistic missile attack, the US deployed a THAAD battery in Israel. The system is capable of intercepting missiles both inside and outside of the Earth's atmosphere. Also read: Houthis ‘uncover’ Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen THAAD relies on kinetic energy to neutralise threats and destroy incoming missiles through impact rather than an explosive warhead. Further, a standard THAAD battery includes six truck-mounted launchers and each of them is capable of holding up to eight interceptors, along with a radar and a fire control system. The system can detect threats from a range of 870 to 3,000 kilometres. In the past eight days, this is the fifth such attack by the Iran-backed Houthi group on Israel. Houthis had earlier claimed to have targeted Ben Gurion Airport after which Israel retaliated and launched strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, including the Hezyaz power plant and infrastructure at Sanaa International Airport. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it?

Israel on Thursday (Dec 26) hit multiple targets linked to Yemen-based Houthi rebels, including a major assault on the international airport in the capital, Sana&rsquo;a. The strikes left at least six people dead, as claimed by the Iran-backed militias. The UN chief condemned the &ldquo;escalation&rdquo; in the region, whereas World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus later said he was about to board a plane at the airport just before it came under Israeli fire. &ldquo;The air traffic control tower, the departure lounge &ndash; just a few meters from where we were &ndash; and the runway were damaged. We will need to wait for the damage to the airport to be repaired before we can leave,&rdquo; said the WHO chief. He added that a crew member on the plane was injured. Earlier, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Thursday to &ldquo;cut off this terrorist arm of Iran&rsquo;s evil axis.&rdquo; &ldquo;We will persist in this until we complete the task,&rdquo; he added. Israel has hinted it is going to shift its focus to Houthis after dealing massive blows to other Iranian proxies in the region, including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
<h2>Follow the latest updates here.</h2>

The live blog has ended. 

Yemen-based Houthi rebels Friday (Dec 27) said they fired a missile at Israel's Ben Gurion airport. The attack comes a day after Israel raided Sanaa's international airport and other targets in rebel areas.
A Houthi statement said they also launched drones at Tel Aviv and a ship in the Arabian Sea, stating that Israeli "aggression will only increase the determination and resolve of the great Yemeni people to continue supporting the Palestinian people".

West Asia crisis | Iran-backed Houthis say they launched attacks on Tel Aviv airport

A Palestinian television channel has reported the death of five of its journalists in an Israeli airstrike in the central Gaza Strip.
According to the channel, the journalists were inside a Quds Today van parked outside al-Awda hospital in the Nuseirat refugee camp. One of the journalists was reportedly awaiting the birth of his child at the hospital.
In response, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that the strike targeted "Islamic Jihad operatives posing as journalists" and added that measures were taken to minimise harm to civilians.

West Asia crisis | IDF strike kills five journalists of Palestinian TV channel

Major Hod Shriebman was killed in combat in northern Gaza, the IDF said Thursday.
27-year-old Shriebman was serving as a company commander in the Multidimensional Unit.
His death has taken the total death toll of IDF soldiers to 823 since October 7 of last year.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m56g79bp-wdgjorwy-zzqymn5e">
Another hero fell in battle in Gaza Major Hod Shriebman🕯️ May his memory be blessed forever. <a href="https://t.co/WXXwFuRFc4">pic.twitter.com/WXXwFuRFc4</a>
&mdash; נועה מגיד | Noa magid (@NoaMagid) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoaMagid/status/1872387173758202062?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

West Asia Crisis | IDF announces death of another soldier in Gaza

Damascus governor has said his nation doesn't fear Israel in a bold statement Friday during an interview with NPR. "We have no fear toward Israel&hellip; there exists a people who want coexistence," he said.
The governor of Damascus added the newly-installed government wants to have good relations with Israel. &nbsp;&nbsp; &ldquo;Israel may have felt fear,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;So it advanced a little, bombed a little, etc.&rdquo; &nbsp; &ldquo;We have no fear towards Israel, and our problem is not with Israel,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;There exists a people who want coexistence. They want peace. They don&rsquo;t want disputes.&rdquo; &nbsp; &ldquo;We want peace, and we cannot be an opponent to Israel or an opponent to anyone,&rdquo; he said..

West Asia crisis | ‘We have no fear toward Israel,' declares Syria governor

Lebanese media has reported Israeli strikes on three targets in the Bekaa Valley region, close to the border with Syria. &nbsp;

West Asia crisis | Israeli strikes near Syrian border

An apparent Houthi attack temporarily halted arrivals at israel's Ben Gurion Airport Friday, with four flights from Europe told to wait and not near the airport, according to local media reports. The airport resumed its normal activities after some 30 minutes.

West Asia crisis | Arrivals at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport halted for brief period

World News | The UN chief condemned the “escalation” in the region, whereas WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus later said he was about to board a plane at the airport.

Israel on Thursday (Dec 26) hit multiple targets linked to Yemen-based Houthi rebels, including a major assault on the international airport in the capital, Sana’a. The strikes left at least six people dead, as claimed by the Iran-backed militias. The UN chief condemned the “escalation” in the region, whereas World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus later said he was about to board a plane at the airport just before it came under Israeli fire. “The air traffic control tower, the departure lounge – just a few meters from where we were – and the runway were damaged. We will need to wait for the damage to the airport to be repaired before we can leave,” said the WHO chief. He added that a crew member on the plane was injured. Earlier, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Thursday to “cut off this terrorist arm of Iran’s evil axis.” “We will persist in this until we complete the task,” he added. Israel has hinted it is going to shift its focus to Houthis after dealing massive blows to other Iranian proxies in the region, including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Follow the latest updates here.

West Asia crisis LIVE: Yemen-based Houthis claim drone, missile attack at Tel Aviv airport

The Israeli military on Thursday (Dec 26) launched strikes at multiple locations in Yemen including the Sanaa International Airport. According to a report by the news agency AFP, three people were killed in the strikes.
The strikes targeting the airport, military facilities and power stations in rebel areas follow rising hostilities between Israel and the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, part of Iran's "axis of resistance" alliance against Israel.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-houthis-uncover-mossad-cia-spy-network-as-israel-shifts-focus-to-yemen-8566732" rel="dofollow">Houthis &lsquo;uncover&rsquo; Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen</a>
The other targets included facilities at Hodeida, Salif and Ras Kanatib ports. In a statement, the Israeli military said that these locations were being used by the Houthi rebels to smuggle&nbsp;Iranian weapons into the region and for the entry of senior Iranian officials.&nbsp;
<h2>WHO chief was at Sanaa airport during strike</h2>
World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that he was at the Sanaa International Airport when it was hit by the Israeli strike.
Tedros said that "one of our plane's crew members was injured." The WHO chief was in Yemen to seek the release of detained UN staff and assess the humanitarian situation in the war-torn country.
Tedros said that his team were about to board their flight when the airport came under aerial bombardment.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, in a statement, Houthi rebels said that two people were killed and 11 others were injured during the strike at the airport.
<h2>'Israeli strikes would continue until job is done'</h2>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel's strikes would continue until the job was done.
"We are determined to cut this branch of terrorism from the Iranian axis of evil," Prime Minister Netanyahu said in a video statement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vows-to-target-houthi-leaders-says-will-act-against-them-to-remove-threat-786542" rel="dofollow">Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat'</a>
Since the war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023, Houthis have &nbsp;fired drones and missiles towards Israel in what they describe as acts of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
More than a year of&nbsp;Houthi&nbsp;attacks have disrupted international shipping routes, forcing firms to re-route to longer and more expensive journeys that have in turn stoked fears over global inflation.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Israeli media has reported that the IDF has carried out against Houthis in response to the rebels' recent ballistic missile and drone attacks on Israel. 

The Israeli military on Thursday (Dec 26) launched strikes at multiple locations in Yemen including the Sanaa International Airport. According to a report by the news agency AFP, three people were killed in the strikes. The strikes targeting the airport, military facilities and power stations in rebel areas follow rising hostilities between Israel and the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, part of Iran's "axis of resistance" alliance against Israel. Also read | Houthis ‘uncover’ Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen The other targets included facilities at Hodeida, Salif and Ras Kanatib ports. In a statement, the Israeli military said that these locations were being used by the Houthi rebels to smuggle Iranian weapons into the region and for the entry of senior Iranian officials. WHO chief was at Sanaa airport during strike World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that he was at the Sanaa International Airport when it was hit by the Israeli strike. Tedros said that "one of our plane's crew members was injured." The WHO chief was in Yemen to seek the release of detained UN staff and assess the humanitarian situation in the war-torn country. Tedros said that his team were about to board their flight when the airport came under aerial bombardment. Meanwhile, in a statement, Houthi rebels said that two people were killed and 11 others were injured during the strike at the airport. 'Israeli strikes would continue until job is done' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel's strikes would continue until the job was done. "We are determined to cut this branch of terrorism from the Iranian axis of evil," Prime Minister Netanyahu said in a video statement. Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' Since the war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023, Houthis have fired drones and missiles towards Israel in what they describe as acts of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. More than a year of Houthi attacks have disrupted international shipping routes, forcing firms to re-route to longer and more expensive journeys that have in turn stoked fears over global inflation. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Israel launches multiple strikes in Yemen, three killed

Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have claimed that they recently uncovered a spy network handled by Israeli intelligence agency Mossad and its American counterpart the CIA. The group released a statement, claiming the CIA and Mossad agents were tasked with the responsibility of identifying and monitoring key military installations, including its missile sites, drones and naval forces as well as weapons depots. The statement added that the agents were also tracking and monitoring senior Houthi leadership living in Yemen and those wanted by the US and Israel.
The Times of Israel reported that the spy network was led by a Saudi national, identified as Hamid Hussein Majali. The Houthis said he had been operating from Yemeni soil since Oct 7 last year, focusing on driving recruitments for the agencies. He had been drafting locals to do espionage activities and obstruct the Houthis as the Iran-backed rebels have been staging attacks against Israel and international shipping lanes in support of Hamas in Gaza.
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<div class="n0jPhd ynAwRc MBeuO nDgy9d" aria-level="3" role="heading">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vows-to-target-houthi-leaders-says-will-act-against-them-to-remove-threat-786542" rel="dofollow">Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says `will act against them to remove threat`</a></div>
<h2 class="n0jPhd ynAwRc MBeuO nDgy9d" aria-level="3" role="heading">Israel to go after Houthis now</h2>
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The reports come amidst signalling by Israel that it may go after the Houthi rebels after significantly weakening other Iranian assets in the West Asian region, including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. On Tuesday (Dec 24), Defence Minister Israel Katz said the Jewish nation will not allow missile and drone fire on Israel by Houthis to continue unchecked.
&ldquo;Just as we took care of (Yayha) Sinwar in Gaza, (Ismail) Haniyeh in Tehran and (Hassan) Nasrallah in Beirut, we will deal with the heads of the Houthis in Sana&rsquo;a or anywhere in Yemen,&rdquo; Katz said referring to the leaders of terror group Hamas and Hezbollah killed by Israel.
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Earlier on Tuesday, the IDF shot down a missile fired by Houthis as sirens in Tel Aviv caused widespread panic among the residents. If Israel now goes after the Houthi leadership, it will mark a serious escalation in the conflict.
(With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis | World news: The reports come amidst signalling by Israel that it may go after the Houthi rebels after significantly weakening other Iranian assets.

Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have claimed that they recently uncovered a spy network handled by Israeli intelligence agency Mossad and its American counterpart the CIA. The group released a statement, claiming the CIA and Mossad agents were tasked with the responsibility of identifying and monitoring key military installations, including its missile sites, drones and naval forces as well as weapons depots. The statement added that the agents were also tracking and monitoring senior Houthi leadership living in Yemen and those wanted by the US and Israel. The Times of Israel reported that the spy network was led by a Saudi national, identified as Hamid Hussein Majali. The Houthis said he had been operating from Yemeni soil since Oct 7 last year, focusing on driving recruitments for the agencies. He had been drafting locals to do espionage activities and obstruct the Houthis as the Iran-backed rebels have been staging attacks against Israel and international shipping lanes in support of Hamas in Gaza. Also read: Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says `will act against them to remove threat` Israel to go after Houthis now The reports come amidst signalling by Israel that it may go after the Houthi rebels after significantly weakening other Iranian assets in the West Asian region, including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. On Tuesday (Dec 24), Defence Minister Israel Katz said the Jewish nation will not allow missile and drone fire on Israel by Houthis to continue unchecked. “Just as we took care of (Yayha) Sinwar in Gaza, (Ismail) Haniyeh in Tehran and (Hassan) Nasrallah in Beirut, we will deal with the heads of the Houthis in Sana’a or anywhere in Yemen,” Katz said referring to the leaders of terror group Hamas and Hezbollah killed by Israel. AI FFeatured Image size is smaller than 1200px width Earlier on Tuesday, the IDF shot down a missile fired by Houthis as sirens in Tel Aviv caused widespread panic among the residents. If Israel now goes after the Houthi leadership, it will mark a serious escalation in the conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Houthis ‘uncover’ Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen

At least 15,000 devices failed to detonate on Hezbollah militants during the final activation phase of the pager attack in Lebanon, according to a report by Israeli news outlet i24NEWS on Wednesday (December 26).
The report revealed that the attack was carried out in mid-September at the last possible moment, due to fears that Israel's method of execution might be exposed. Initially, the operation was supposed to be carried out earlier, at the beginning of the war. A security source was cited saying by i24NEWS that doing so at that stage could have resulted in greater success.
Also read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-houthis-uncover-mossad-cia-spy-network-as-israel-shifts-focus-to-yemen-8566732" class="editor-rtfLink" rel="noopener">Houthis &lsquo;uncover&rsquo; Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen</a>
<h2>Idea for the Lebanon pager attack was conceptualised by Mossad over a decade ago: IDF</h2>
On Wednesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shared new details about its involvement in the pager and walkie-talkie blast attacks targeting Hezbollah. According to the military, the idea for these attacks was first thought of by Mossad over a decade ago.
Reports indicate that once Mossad developed the concept, the military's intelligence and operations units took the lead in turning the idea into a functional plan and deployable weapon. The IDF also made up strategies to analyse the best timing for the explosions to ensure maximum impact.
Also read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impossible-to-reach-deal-without-it-hamas-still-hasnt-sent-list-of-living-dead-hostages-to-israel-report-786735" class="editor-rtfLink" rel="noopener">'Impossible to reach deal without it,' Hamas still hasn't sent list of living, dead hostages to Israel: Report</a>
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier suggested that some security officials opposed the use of these explosive devices, but he overruled their objections and authorised the operation. However, IDF&rsquo;s insights on Wednesday indicated that it did not oppose the attack but had recommended delaying the attacks until the northern front, involving Hezbollah, became the primary focus of the war, rather than launching them earlier when Gaza was still the main battlefield.
Also read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-israeli-hostage-held-in-gaza-dies-a-year-after-her-release-786651" class="editor-rtfLink" rel="noopener">Former Israeli hostage held in Gaza dies a year after her release</a>
On Sept. 17, at precisely 3:30 pm, thousands of pagers simultaneously exploded across Lebanon. The following day, the decade-old walkie-talkies exploded in the same way. Two months later, Israel's Netanyahu officially took responsibility for the attack.
Combined, these operations resulted in approximately 30 deaths, including two children, and left around 3,000 people injured.
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Wednesday shared new details about its involvement in the pager and walkie-talkie blast attacks targeting Hezbollah. 

At least 15,000 devices failed to detonate on Hezbollah militants during the final activation phase of the pager attack in Lebanon, according to a report by Israeli news outlet i24NEWS on Wednesday (December 26). The report revealed that the attack was carried out in mid-September at the last possible moment, due to fears that Israel's method of execution might be exposed. Initially, the operation was supposed to be carried out earlier, at the beginning of the war. A security source was cited saying by i24NEWS that doing so at that stage could have resulted in greater success. Also read: Houthis ‘uncover’ Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen Idea for the Lebanon pager attack was conceptualised by Mossad over a decade ago: IDF On Wednesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shared new details about its involvement in the pager and walkie-talkie blast attacks targeting Hezbollah. According to the military, the idea for these attacks was first thought of by Mossad over a decade ago. Reports indicate that once Mossad developed the concept, the military's intelligence and operations units took the lead in turning the idea into a functional plan and deployable weapon. The IDF also made up strategies to analyse the best timing for the explosions to ensure maximum impact. Also read: 'Impossible to reach deal without it,' Hamas still hasn't sent list of living, dead hostages to Israel: Report Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier suggested that some security officials opposed the use of these explosive devices, but he overruled their objections and authorised the operation. However, IDF’s insights on Wednesday indicated that it did not oppose the attack but had recommended delaying the attacks until the northern front, involving Hezbollah, became the primary focus of the war, rather than launching them earlier when Gaza was still the main battlefield. Also read: Former Israeli hostage held in Gaza dies a year after her release On Sept. 17, at precisely 3:30 pm, thousands of pagers simultaneously exploded across Lebanon. The following day, the decade-old walkie-talkies exploded in the same way. Two months later, Israel's Netanyahu officially took responsibility for the attack. Combined, these operations resulted in approximately 30 deaths, including two children, and left around 3,000 people injured. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

15,000 devices failed to explode during Israel's pager operation against Hezbollah: Report

Hama, Syria
Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Christian areas of Damascus early Tuesday to protest the burning of a Christmas tree near Hama in central Syria, AFP journalists witnessed.
"We demand the rights of Christians," protesters chanted as they marched through the Syrian capital towards the headquarters of the Orthodox Patriarchate in the Bab Sharqi neighbourhood.
The protests come a little more than two weeks after an armed coalition led by Islamists toppled the government of Bashar al-Assad, who had cast himself as a protector of minorities in the Sunni-majority country.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drops-bounty-on-syrias-new-leader-after-talks-in-syrian-capital-785759">US scraps $10mn bounty on Syria’s new leader after talks in Syrian capital</a>
A demonstrator who gave his name as Georges told AFP he was protesting "injustice against Christians".
"If we're not allowed to live our Christian faith in our country, as we used to, then we don't belong here anymore," he said.
The protests erupted after a video spread on social media showing hooded fighters setting fire to a Christmas tree in the Christian-majority town of Suqaylabiyah, near Hama.
According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the fighters were foreigners from the Islamist group Ansar al-Tawhid.
Also watch | All weapons to come under state control: New Syrian leader
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/23/2312_wion_turkiye_430pm-1734955217-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2312_wion_turkiye_430pm.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=108&tags=Syria,rebels,forces,counterattack,government" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
In another video posted to social media, a religious leader from Syria's victorious Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) addressed residents, claiming those who torched the tree were "not Syrian" and promising they would be punished.
"The tree will be restored and lit up by tomorrow morning," he said.
The Islamist HTS movement, rooted in Al-Qaeda and supported by Turkey, has promised to protect minorities since its lightning offensive toppled Assad this month following years of stalemate.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The protests come a little more than two weeks after an armed coalition led by Islamists toppled the government of Bashar al-Assad, who had cast himself as a protector of minorities in the Sunni-majority country.



Hama, Syria Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Christian areas of Damascus early Tuesday to protest the burning of a Christmas tree near Hama in central Syria, AFP journalists witnessed. "We demand the rights of Christians," protesters chanted as they marched through the Syrian capital towards the headquarters of the Orthodox Patriarchate in the Bab Sharqi neighbourhood. The protests come a little more than two weeks after an armed coalition led by Islamists toppled the government of Bashar al-Assad, who had cast himself as a protector of minorities in the Sunni-majority country. Also read | US scraps $10mn bounty on Syria’s new leader after talks in Syrian capital A demonstrator who gave his name as Georges told AFP he was protesting "injustice against Christians". "If we're not allowed to live our Christian faith in our country, as we used to, then we don't belong here anymore," he said. The protests erupted after a video spread on social media showing hooded fighters setting fire to a Christmas tree in the Christian-majority town of Suqaylabiyah, near Hama. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the fighters were foreigners from the Islamist group Ansar al-Tawhid. Also watch | All weapons to come under state control: New Syrian leader In another video posted to social media, a religious leader from Syria's victorious Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) addressed residents, claiming those who torched the tree were "not Syrian" and promising they would be punished. "The tree will be restored and lit up by tomorrow morning," he said. The Islamist HTS movement, rooted in Al-Qaeda and supported by Turkey, has promised to protect minorities since its lightning offensive toppled Assad this month following years of stalemate. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hundreds hit the streets as protest erupts over burning of Christmas tree near Syria's Hama

Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Christian areas of Damascus early Tuesday to protest the burning of a Christmas tree near Hama in central Syria, AFP journalists witnessed.

"We demand the rights of Christians," protesters chanted as they marched through the Syrian capital towards the headquarters of the Orthodox Patriarchate in the Bab Sharqi neighbourhood.

The protests come a little more than two weeks after an armed coalition led by Islamists toppled the government of Bashar al-Assad, who had cast himself as a protector of minorities in the Sunni-majority country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drops-bounty-on-syrias-new-leader-after-talks-in-syrian-capital-785759">US scraps $10mn bounty on Syria’s new leader after talks in Syrian capital</a>

A demonstrator who gave his name as Georges told AFP he was protesting "injustice against Christians".

"If we're not allowed to live our Christian faith in our country, as we used to, then we don't belong here anymore," he said.

The protests erupted after a video spread on social media showing hooded fighters setting fire to a Christmas tree in the Christian-majority town of Suqaylabiyah, near Hama.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the fighters were foreigners from the Islamist group Ansar al-Tawhid.

Also watch | All weapons to come under state control: New Syrian leader

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syrias-new-leaders-say-all-weapons-to-come-under-state-control-786205/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In another video posted to social media, a religious leader from Syria's victorious Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) addressed residents, claiming those who torched the tree were "not Syrian" and promising they would be punished.

"The tree will be restored and lit up by tomorrow morning," he said.

The Islamist HTS movement, rooted in Al-Qaeda and supported by Turkey, has promised to protect minorities since its lightning offensive toppled Assad this month following years of stalemate.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Christian areas of Damascus early Tuesday to protest the burning of a Christmas tree near Hama in central Syria, AFP journalists witnessed.

Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Christian areas of Damascus early Tuesday to protest the burning of a Christmas tree near Hama in central Syria, AFP journalists witnessed. "We demand the rights of Christians," protesters chanted as they marched through the Syrian capital towards the headquarters of the Orthodox Patriarchate in the Bab Sharqi neighbourhood. The protests come a little more than two weeks after an armed coalition led by Islamists toppled the government of Bashar al-Assad, who had cast himself as a protector of minorities in the Sunni-majority country. Also read | US scraps $10mn bounty on Syria’s new leader after talks in Syrian capital A demonstrator who gave his name as Georges told AFP he was protesting "injustice against Christians". "If we're not allowed to live our Christian faith in our country, as we used to, then we don't belong here anymore," he said. The protests erupted after a video spread on social media showing hooded fighters setting fire to a Christmas tree in the Christian-majority town of Suqaylabiyah, near Hama. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the fighters were foreigners from the Islamist group Ansar al-Tawhid. Also watch | All weapons to come under state control: New Syrian leader In another video posted to social media, a religious leader from Syria's victorious Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) addressed residents, claiming those who torched the tree were "not Syrian" and promising they would be punished. "The tree will be restored and lit up by tomorrow morning," he said. The Islamist HTS movement, rooted in Al-Qaeda and supported by Turkey, has promised to protect minorities since its lightning offensive toppled Assad this month following years of stalemate. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Damascus, Syria
<meta content="uuidaPvOTKXj8A5h" name="uuid"/>
A delegation of US diplomats, who arrived in Syria on Friday (Dec 20), had a "positive" meeting with the country's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, aka Abu Mohammad al-Julani.
Speaking to the news agency AFP, a Syrian official who chose to remain anonymous said, "The meeting took place, and it was positive. And the results will be positive, God willing."
Al-Sharra leads the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group that swept Bashar al-Assad from power earlier this month, ending the family's 50-year-long iron-fisted rule.
Though the ouster of Asad ended decades of abuses and years of civil war, the formation of Syria's new rulers has raised concerns over minorities and women's rights.
<h2>Here's a look at the updates from Syria:</h2>
&gt; This was the first formal visit by US officials to Syria since the early days of the civil war that erupted after Assad cracked down on anti-government protests in 2011. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hts-leader-says-syrian-rebel-fighters-to-be-placed-under-defence-ministry-calls-on-west-to-lift-sanctions-784557">HTS leader says Syrian rebel fighters to be placed under ‘defence ministry’, calls on West to lift sanctions</a>
&gt; According to the US State Department, the delegation would also meet with activists, minority groups and civil society representatives in Syria.
&gt; The delegation includes Barbara Leaf, the top State Department official for West Asia, as well as the US point man on hostages, who has been seeking clues on missing Americans including Austin Tice, a journalist who was kidnapped in Syria in August 2012.
&gt; Recently at talks in Jordan- Western, Arab, and Turkish powers jointly called for an "inclusive, non-sectarian and representative government" that respects the rights of all of Syria's diverse communities.
&gt; On Friday, Syrians gathered in Damascus to celebrate the toppling of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Visuals from the news agency Reuters showed a mass celebration in Umayyad Square which was called by the HTS.
Also watch | The West Asia Post: Who will shape Syria's future?
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&gt; A day earlier, the Pentagon said that it had 2,000 US troops in Syria, far higher than the previously public number of 900, saying that the additional troops considered temporary forces that had been sent to support the counter-Islamic State's (ISIS) mission.
&gt; The US military said on Friday that it killed an ISIS leader and another of the terrorist organisation's members in a strike in Syria. 
&gt; The strike took place Thursday in Deir Ezzor province in eastern Syria, killing IS leader "Abu Yusif" and another operative, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on social media, without providing further details on the two ISIS members.
(With inputs from agencies)

Syrian leader al-Sharra leads the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group that swept Bashar al-Assad from power earlier this month, ending the family's 50-year-long iron-fisted rule.



Damascus, Syria A delegation of US diplomats, who arrived in Syria on Friday (Dec 20), had a "positive" meeting with the country's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, aka Abu Mohammad al-Julani. Speaking to the news agency AFP, a Syrian official who chose to remain anonymous said, "The meeting took place, and it was positive. And the results will be positive, God willing." Al-Sharra leads the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group that swept Bashar al-Assad from power earlier this month, ending the family's 50-year-long iron-fisted rule. Though the ouster of Asad ended decades of abuses and years of civil war, the formation of Syria's new rulers has raised concerns over minorities and women's rights. Here's a look at the updates from Syria: > This was the first formal visit by US officials to Syria since the early days of the civil war that erupted after Assad cracked down on anti-government protests in 2011. Also read | HTS leader says Syrian rebel fighters to be placed under ‘defence ministry’, calls on West to lift sanctions > According to the US State Department, the delegation would also meet with activists, minority groups and civil society representatives in Syria. > The delegation includes Barbara Leaf, the top State Department official for West Asia, as well as the US point man on hostages, who has been seeking clues on missing Americans including Austin Tice, a journalist who was kidnapped in Syria in August 2012. > Recently at talks in Jordan- Western, Arab, and Turkish powers jointly called for an "inclusive, non-sectarian and representative government" that respects the rights of all of Syria's diverse communities. > On Friday, Syrians gathered in Damascus to celebrate the toppling of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Visuals from the news agency Reuters showed a mass celebration in Umayyad Square which was called by the HTS. Also watch | The West Asia Post: Who will shape Syria's future? > A day earlier, the Pentagon said that it had 2,000 US troops in Syria, far higher than the previously public number of 900, saying that the additional troops considered temporary forces that had been sent to support the counter-Islamic State's (ISIS) mission. > The US military said on Friday that it killed an ISIS leader and another of the terrorist organisation's members in a strike in Syria. > The strike took place Thursday in Deir Ezzor province in eastern Syria, killing IS leader "Abu Yusif" and another operative, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on social media, without providing further details on the two ISIS members. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: US diplomats have 'positive meeting' with new Syrian leader

A delegation of US diplomats, who arrived in Syria on Friday (Dec 20), had a "positive" meeting with the country's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, aka Abu Mohammad al-Julani.

A delegation of US diplomats, who arrived in Syria on Friday (Dec 20), had a "positive" meeting with the country's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, aka Abu Mohammad al-Julani. Speaking to the news agency AFP, a Syrian official who chose to remain anonymous said, "The meeting took place, and it was positive. And the results will be positive, God willing." Al-Sharra leads the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group that swept Bashar al-Assad from power earlier this month, ending the family's 50-year-long iron-fisted rule. Though the ouster of Asad ended decades of abuses and years of civil war, the formation of Syria's new rulers has raised concerns over minorities and women's rights. Here's a look at the updates from Syria: > This was the first formal visit by US officials to Syria since the early days of the civil war that erupted after Assad cracked down on anti-government protests in 2011. Also read | HTS leader says Syrian rebel fighters to be placed under ‘defence ministry’, calls on West to lift sanctions > According to the US State Department, the delegation would also meet with activists, minority groups and civil society representatives in Syria. > The delegation includes Barbara Leaf, the top State Department official for West Asia, as well as the US point man on hostages, who has been seeking clues on missing Americans including Austin Tice, a journalist who was kidnapped in Syria in August 2012. > Recently at talks in Jordan- Western, Arab, and Turkish powers jointly called for an "inclusive, non-sectarian and representative government" that respects the rights of all of Syria's diverse communities. > On Friday, Syrians gathered in Damascus to celebrate the toppling of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Visuals from the news agency Reuters showed a mass celebration in Umayyad Square which was called by the HTS. Also watch | The West Asia Post: Who will shape Syria's future? > A day earlier, the Pentagon said that it had 2,000 US troops in Syria, far higher than the previously public number of 900, saying that the additional troops considered temporary forces that had been sent to support the counter-Islamic State's (ISIS) mission. > The US military said on Friday that it killed an ISIS leader and another of the terrorist organisation's members in a strike in Syria. > The strike took place Thursday in Deir Ezzor province in eastern Syria, killing IS leader "Abu Yusif" and another operative, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on social media, without providing further details on the two ISIS members. (With inputs from agencies)

India marked its 75th anniversary of the adoption of the constitution with Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the Lok Sabha on Saturday (Dec 14).&nbsp;Meanwhile in West Asis crisis updates, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Saturday (Dec 14) that the United States made "direct contact" with Syria's victorious Hayat Tahrir al-Sham rebels even after terming the group as a terrorist organisation.&nbsp;Latest in South Korea's politics, the lawmakers passed an impeachment motion against President&nbsp;Yoon Suk Yeol after his failed martial law bid.&nbsp;

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Taylor Swift (Santa Claus) came early this year!&nbsp;A heart-melting gesture! Time and again, Swift has won the hearts of her millions of fans with her sweet behaviours and surprise offerings.&nbsp;

India marked its 75th anniversary of the adoption of the constitution with Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the Lok Sabha on Saturday (Dec 14). Meanwhile in West Asis crisis updates, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Saturday (Dec 14) that the United States made "direct contact" with Syria's victorious Hayat Tahrir al-Sham rebels even after terming the group as a terrorist organisation.

India marked its 75th anniversary of the adoption of the constitution with Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the Lok Sabha on Saturday (Dec 14). Meanwhile in West Asis crisis updates, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Saturday (Dec 14) that the United States made "direct contact" with Syria's victorious Hayat Tahrir al-Sham rebels even after terming the group as a terrorist organisation. Latest in South Korea's politics, the lawmakers passed an impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk Yeol after his failed martial law bid. Click on the headlines to read more India is the 'mother of democracy': PM Modi marks 75th anniversary of the adoption of Indian Constitution Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Dec 14) addressed the Lok Sabha (lower House of the Indian Parliament) during a special debate marking the 75th anniversary of the adoption of India’s Constitution. The two-day debate, organised to commemorate this historic milestone, began in the lower house of Parliament on Friday. US makes 'direct contact' with Syria's rebels; Turkey reopens embassy in Damascus after 12 years US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States has made "direct contact" with Syria's victorious Hayat Tahrir al-Sham rebels on Saturday (Dec 14) despite designating the group as terrorists. "We've been in contact with HTS and with other parties," Blinken told reporters. South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know South Korean lawmakers on Saturday (Dec 14) passed an impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed martial law bid. The opposition passed the motion with 204 votes — four more than the 200 needed to remove Yoon from office over the alleged "insurrection" which last week threw South Korea into its deepest political turmoil in years. Who is Georgia's new far-right President Mikheil Kavelashvili? Former footballer and far-right politician Mikheil Kavelashvili was elected as Georgia's new president on Saturday (Dec 14) in an indirect election, termed as "illegitimate" by the current pro-EU (European Union) leader. Kavelashvili was chosen by the governing Georgian Dream party. He is known for his expletive-laden parliament speeches and controversial statements against government critics and LGBTQ+ people. Texas sues New York doctor for mailing abortion pills to woman in Dallas The US state of Texas sued a female doctor from New York named Dr Margaret Daley Carpenter for allegedly mailing abortion pills to a woman in Dallas despite the ban on the procedure in the state. The lawsuit, filed on Thursday (Dec 12), alleged that Dr Carpenter sent abortion pills to a 20-year-old woman via telemedicine. Thai police detains 2 suspects after blast at Red Cross Fair concert leaves 3 dead, 48 injured Thai police reported on Saturday (Dec 14) that two suspects had been taken into custody as authorities continued investigating a bombing in northern Thailand that killed at least three people and left dozens injured. At least 18 killed in Israeli Gaza strikes: Palestinian medics At least 18 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on Saturday, medics said, while the Israeli military said it targeted gunmen operating from shelters and aid storages. From Bezos to Zuckerberg, top US CEOs line up to embrace Trump who once they ditched In what can be best described as a change of fortunes, United States President-elect Donald Trump’s election victory has made him the apple of the eyes of CEOs, executives and influential business leaders. The same executives who literally abandoned Trump following his 2020 loss against President Joe Biden are now lining up to shake his hands. BGT: 'History of this venue..,' Vaughan unhappy with Rohit bowling first Gabba Former England skipper Michael Vaughan isn't happy with India skipper Rohit Sharma's decision to bat first at the Gabba in third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test against Australia. Rohit won the toss on Saturday (Dec 14) on a green surface under overcast conditions and elected to bowl first in Brisbane. Swift turns Santa for young fan with a surprise gift after hospital visit Taylor Swift (Santa Claus) came early this year! A heart-melting gesture! Time and again, Swift has won the hearts of her millions of fans with her sweet behaviours and surprise offerings.

Top 10 world news: PM Modi marks 75th anniversary of Constitution adoption; West Asia crisis updates, and more

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed veteran centrist François Bayrou as the new prime minister on Friday (Dec 13) following the collapse of the previous government of PM Michel Barnier.

In other news,&nbsp;US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a surprise visit to Iraq on Friday (Dec 13) and pledged to work with Baghdad to ensure no resurgence of the Islamic State group after the former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad regime's ouster from Syria.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines&nbsp;to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-francois-bayrou-the-new-french-pm-who-will-battle-the-political-chaos-783765">Who is Francois Bayrou? The new French PM set to battle the political&nbsp;chaos</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/13/471050-00036qc2wd.jpg?imwidth=400" />

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed veteran centrist François Bayrou as the new prime minister on Friday (Dec 13) following the collapse of the previous government of PM Michel Barnier.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-crisis-updates-blinken-vows-to-work-with-iraq-against-is-syrians-celebrate-assads-fall-783807">West Asia crisis: Blinken vows to work with Iraq against IS</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/13/471080-luigi-mangione-18.png?imwidth=400" />

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a surprise visit to Iraq on Friday (Dec 13) and pledged to work with Baghdad to ensure no resurgence of the Islamic State group after the former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad regime's ouster from Syria.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-airstrike-targets-ukraines-energy-system-in-retaliation-for-us-supplied-missile-use-783735">Russian airstrike targets Ukraine’s energy system in retaliation for US-supplied missile use</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/06/469922-untitled-design-8.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Russia carried out a major aerial strike on Ukraine on Friday (Dec&nbsp;13) morning, deploying cruise missiles and drones to target energy infrastructure, particularly in the western border regions. The attack is part of a renewed campaign against Ukraine’s electricity network, which has already caused extended power outages for millions of civilians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-indian-students-murdered-in-canada-says-new-delhi-783790">'Terrible tragedies': Three Indian students killed in Canada, says New Delhi</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/13/471068-untitled-4.png?imwidth=400" />

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday (Dec 13) that three Indian students were murdered in Canada in the last week or so, adding, it was in touch with the victims' families and the local authorities to ensure a thorough investigation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parents-of-kolkata-rape-murder-victim-slam-failing-system-after-sandip-ghosh-one-other-granted-bail-783797">Parents of murdered RG Kar doctor slam system after ex-principal gets bail</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/13/449072-untitled-design-54.png?imwidth=400" />

The parents of the junior doctor who was raped and murdered at&nbsp;RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in the Indian city of&nbsp;Kolkata&nbsp;expressed their heartbreak and disappointment after two&nbsp;accused in the case were granted bail on Friday (Dec 13).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-can-influence-putin-on-peace-estonia-fm-margus-tsahkna-783707">India can influence Putin on peace: Estonia FM Margus Tsahkna</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/13/471009-sibal-interview.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has emphasised that India can influence Russian President Vladimir Putin for peace as the war in Ukraine enters its third year in 2025.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drones-seen-in-new-jersey-white-house-says-no-proof-that-sightings-pose-national-security-threat-783775">Drones seen in New Jersey: White House says no proof that sightings pose national security threat</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/13/471054-untitled-3.png?imwidth=400" />

The White House on Friday (Dec 13) said that the United States (US) administration had no evidence that the recent drone sightings in the US state of New Jersey posed a national security or a public safety threat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamaica-proposes-bill-to-remove-king-charles-as-head-state-and-become-a-republic-783796">Jamaica proposes bill to remove King Charles as head state and become a republic</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/13/471073-luigi-mangione-17.png?imwidth=400" />

In the first step to remove King Charles as head state and become a country republic, the Jamaican government presented a bill in parliament on Wednesday (Dec 11) to abolish the constitutional monarchy.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-icc-approves-hybird-model-after-long-saga-india-to-play-in-dubai-report-783784">Champions Trophy 2025: ICC approves hybrid model after long saga - Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/13/454589-champions-trophy-2025-pcb-to-spend-this-whooping-amount-on-stadium-renovation.png?imwidth=400" />

The saga surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025 is over as the International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved the hybrid mode, meaning India will not travel to Pakistan for the coveted tournament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/actor-allu-arjun-granted-bail-from-high-court-783754">Actor Allu Arjun granted bail from High court in Pushpa 2 stampede case</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/13/471055-happy-30th-birthday-45.png?imwidth=400" />

Actor Allu Arjun has been granted interim bail from the High Court in connection with the death of a woman in Hyderabad. Earlier in the day (Dec 13), the Pushpa 2 actor was arrested in a case filed against him for causing a stampede-like situation that resulted in the death of a woman.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed veteran centrist François Bayrou as the new prime minister on Friday (Dec 13) following the collapse of the previous government of PM Michel Barnier.

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed veteran centrist François Bayrou as the new prime minister on Friday (Dec 13) following the collapse of the previous government of PM Michel Barnier. In other news, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a surprise visit to Iraq on Friday (Dec 13) and pledged to work with Baghdad to ensure no resurgence of the Islamic State group after the former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad regime's ouster from Syria. Click on the headlines to read more: Who is Francois Bayrou? The new French PM set to battle the political chaos French President Emmanuel Macron appointed veteran centrist François Bayrou as the new prime minister on Friday (Dec 13) following the collapse of the previous government of PM Michel Barnier. West Asia crisis: Blinken vows to work with Iraq against IS US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a surprise visit to Iraq on Friday (Dec 13) and pledged to work with Baghdad to ensure no resurgence of the Islamic State group after the former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad regime's ouster from Syria. Russian airstrike targets Ukraine’s energy system in retaliation for US-supplied missile use Russia carried out a major aerial strike on Ukraine on Friday (Dec 13) morning, deploying cruise missiles and drones to target energy infrastructure, particularly in the western border regions. The attack is part of a renewed campaign against Ukraine’s electricity network, which has already caused extended power outages for millions of civilians. 'Terrible tragedies': Three Indian students killed in Canada, says New Delhi India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday (Dec 13) that three Indian students were murdered in Canada in the last week or so, adding, it was in touch with the victims' families and the local authorities to ensure a thorough investigation. Parents of murdered RG Kar doctor slam system after ex-principal gets bail The parents of the junior doctor who was raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in the Indian city of Kolkata expressed their heartbreak and disappointment after two accused in the case were granted bail on Friday (Dec 13). India can influence Putin on peace: Estonia FM Margus Tsahkna Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has emphasised that India can influence Russian President Vladimir Putin for peace as the war in Ukraine enters its third year in 2025. Drones seen in New Jersey: White House says no proof that sightings pose national security threat The White House on Friday (Dec 13) said that the United States (US) administration had no evidence that the recent drone sightings in the US state of New Jersey posed a national security or a public safety threat. Jamaica proposes bill to remove King Charles as head state and become a republic In the first step to remove King Charles as head state and become a country republic, the Jamaican government presented a bill in parliament on Wednesday (Dec 11) to abolish the constitutional monarchy. Champions Trophy 2025: ICC approves hybrid model after long saga - Report The saga surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025 is over as the International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved the hybrid mode, meaning India will not travel to Pakistan for the coveted tournament. Actor Allu Arjun granted bail from High court in Pushpa 2 stampede case Actor Allu Arjun has been granted interim bail from the High Court in connection with the death of a woman in Hyderabad. Earlier in the day (Dec 13), the Pushpa 2 actor was arrested in a case filed against him for causing a stampede-like situation that resulted in the death of a woman.

Top 10 world news: Macron picks Francois Bayrou as new French PM; West Asia crisis updates, and more

United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (Dec 12) warned against triggering further conflicts in Syria, days after rebel factions ousted President Bashar al-Assad from the West Asian country.

United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (Dec 12) warned against triggering further conflicts in Syria, days after rebel factions ousted President Bashar al-Assad from the West Asian country. Blinken is currently on visits to Jordan and Turkey to discuss the ongoing situation in Syria. In Jordan, Blinken mentioned Israeli and Turkish military activity on Syrian soil in recent days. "When it comes to many actors who have real interests in Syria, it's also really important at this time that we all try to make sure that we're not sparking any additional conflicts," he said. Also read | After Assad's ouster, what changes will Syria’s interim government bring? Blinken added that Washington was working to bring home US citizen Travis Timmerman after Syria's interim government said he had been "released." Blinken, Jordan's king agree on need for a secure Syria Earlier in the day, the US secretary of state met Jordan's King Abdullah in the Red Sea town of Aqaba. Both called for a secure Syria, a report by the news agency AFP said. During the meeting, Blinken promised US support for "the stability of Syria's neighbours, including Jordan, during this period of transition", State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said. Blinken called for "an inclusive transition that can lead to an accountable and representative Syrian government chosen by the Syrian people," Miller said. King Abdullah, meanwhile, "reaffirmed Jordan's respect" for "the Syrian people's choices, stressing the need to safeguard Syria's security and the safety of its citizens", a palace statement said. This is Blinken's 12 visit to West Asia since Gaza war began This is Blinken's 12th visit to West Asia since the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip began on October 7 last year. Later on Thursday, the US secretary of state arrived in Turkey. His previous trips have ended in disappointment as he sought a ceasefire between US ally Israel and Hamas. Speaking on the Gaza war, Blinken said that there was an urgent need to reach a ceasefire in the Palestinian territory. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

West Asia crisis: Antony Blinken warns against triggering further conflicts in Syria

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (Dec 12) cautioned against further escalating conflicts in Syria after rebel factions ousted Bashar al-Assad from power.&nbsp;

Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh, at the age of just&nbsp;18, became the youngest World Chess Champion, defeating China’s Ding Liren in Singapore on Thursday. He is only the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to achieve this feat.&nbsp;

In other news from around the world, Time Magazine on Thursday named US President-elect Donald Trump as its "Person of the Year" for the second time, citing his remarkable political resurgence&nbsp;since&nbsp;2016.

Click on the headlines&nbsp;to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-antony-blinken-warns-against-triggering-further-conflicts-in-syria-783566">West Asia crisis: Antony Blinken warns against triggering further conflicts in Syria</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/12/470907-untitled-5.png?imwidth=400" />

United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (Dec 12) warned against triggering further conflicts in Syria, days after rebel factions ousted Bashar al-Assad from the West Asian country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-part-of-my-dream-says-d-gukesh-on-historic-world-chess-championship-win-783558">'Big part of my dream,' says D Gukesh on historic World Chess Championship win</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/12/470894-big-part-of-my-dream-says-d-gukesh-on-historic-world-chess-championship-win.png?imwidth=400" />

India’s D Gukesh scripted history on Thursday (Dec 12) after he became the youngest World Chess Championship winner.&nbsp;After the win, he was seen emotional and reflected on accomplishing his big dream after winning in game 14 of the World Chess Championship.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-gets-times-person-of-the-year-recognition-for-second-time-783550">Trump named Time's 'Person of the Year' for second time, rings New York Stock Exchange’s opening bell</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/12/470896-luigi-mangione-4.png?imwidth=400" />

Time Magazine named United States President-elect Donald Trump as “Person of the Year" on Thursday (Dec 12). This marks the second time the news magazine has honoured the Republican with the title since 2016.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mediterranean-shipwreck-11-year-old-girl-survives-3-days-in-mediterranean-sea-783552">Shocking Mediterranean shipwreck: 11-year-old girl found after three days at sea</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/12/470898-untitled-design-20.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The 11-year-old girl was spotted by chance when the crew of the rescue vessel Trotamar III, operated by Compass Collective, heard her weak calls for help&nbsp;despite the engine running.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/places-of-worship-act-validity-sc-restrains-courts-from-passing-orders-in-suits-against-religious-structures-783491">Places of Worship Act validity: SC restrains courts from passing orders in suits against religious structures</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/12/470857-untitled-1.png?imwidth=400" />

The Indian Supreme Court on Thursday (Dec 12) restrained all courts in the country from passing any effective or interim order, including orders of survey in pending suits against existing religious structures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-interim-government-promises-rule-of-law-after-assads-overthrow-783527">After Assad's ouster, what changes will Syria’s interim government bring?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/11/470619-mohammad-al-bashir.png?imwidth=400" />

In a significant turn of events post-Bashar al-Assad's ouster from Syria a few days back, the interim government on Thursday (Dec 12) pledged to implement the "rule of law," as G7 powers pushed for an inclusive transition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cabinet-approves-one-nation-one-election-bill-likely-to-be-tabled-this-winter-session-783475">Centre approves 'One Nation One Election' bill, likely to be tabled in Winter Session of Parl</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/12/470848-luigi-mangione.png?imwidth=400" />

The Union Cabinet of India on Thursday (Dec 12) reportedly approved the 'One Nation One Election' bill, which allows simultaneous Lok Sabha and state polls. The approved bill is likely to be introduced in the ongoing winter session of the Indian parliament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-president-lula-undergoes-successful-surgery-health-stable-after-emergency-brain-operation-783509">Brazilian President Lula's health stable following second operation after emergency brain surgery</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/12/470869-untitled-design-19.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, 79, has successfully undergone a follow-up surgery to reduce the risk of further bleeding after emergency cranial surgery earlier this week, his doctor confirmed on Thursday (Dec 12).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/krispy-kreme-confirms-cybersecurity-breach-online-ordering-disrupted-across-us-financial-impact-expected-783482">Krispy Kreme confirms cybersecurity breach, online ordering disrupted across US</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/09/411068-untitled-design-2024-02-09t171506539.png?imwidth=400" />

Krispy Kreme, a well-known United States-based doughnut chain, confirmed on Wednesday (Dec 11) that it was targeted by a cyberattack, disrupting its online systems. Since the security breach, customers across the US have faced issues placing online orders.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/iranian-singer-parastoo-ahmadi-gives-online-concert-without-hijab-783542">Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi gives online concert without hijab</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/12/470891-happy-30th-birthday-43.png?imwidth=400" />

An Iranian singer was Thursday hailed as a hero by supporters but faced prosecution from the judiciary after giving an online concert not wearing the hijab in defiance of the dress code.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (Dec 12) cautioned against further escalating conflicts in Syria after rebel factions ousted Bashar al-Assad from power.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (Dec 12) cautioned against further escalating conflicts in Syria after rebel factions ousted Bashar al-Assad from power. Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh, at the age of just 18, became the youngest World Chess Champion, defeating China’s Ding Liren in Singapore on Thursday. He is only the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to achieve this feat. In other news from around the world, Time Magazine on Thursday named US President-elect Donald Trump as its "Person of the Year" for the second time, citing his remarkable political resurgence since 2016. Click on the headlines to read more: West Asia crisis: Antony Blinken warns against triggering further conflicts in Syria United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (Dec 12) warned against triggering further conflicts in Syria, days after rebel factions ousted Bashar al-Assad from the West Asian country. 'Big part of my dream,' says D Gukesh on historic World Chess Championship win India’s D Gukesh scripted history on Thursday (Dec 12) after he became the youngest World Chess Championship winner. After the win, he was seen emotional and reflected on accomplishing his big dream after winning in game 14 of the World Chess Championship. Trump named Time's 'Person of the Year' for second time, rings New York Stock Exchange’s opening bell Time Magazine named United States President-elect Donald Trump as “Person of the Year" on Thursday (Dec 12). This marks the second time the news magazine has honoured the Republican with the title since 2016. Shocking Mediterranean shipwreck: 11-year-old girl found after three days at sea The 11-year-old girl was spotted by chance when the crew of the rescue vessel Trotamar III, operated by Compass Collective, heard her weak calls for help despite the engine running. Places of Worship Act validity: SC restrains courts from passing orders in suits against religious structures The Indian Supreme Court on Thursday (Dec 12) restrained all courts in the country from passing any effective or interim order, including orders of survey in pending suits against existing religious structures. After Assad's ouster, what changes will Syria’s interim government bring? In a significant turn of events post-Bashar al-Assad's ouster from Syria a few days back, the interim government on Thursday (Dec 12) pledged to implement the "rule of law," as G7 powers pushed for an inclusive transition. Centre approves 'One Nation One Election' bill, likely to be tabled in Winter Session of Parl The Union Cabinet of India on Thursday (Dec 12) reportedly approved the 'One Nation One Election' bill, which allows simultaneous Lok Sabha and state polls. The approved bill is likely to be introduced in the ongoing winter session of the Indian parliament. Brazilian President Lula's health stable following second operation after emergency brain surgery Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, 79, has successfully undergone a follow-up surgery to reduce the risk of further bleeding after emergency cranial surgery earlier this week, his doctor confirmed on Thursday (Dec 12). Krispy Kreme confirms cybersecurity breach, online ordering disrupted across US Krispy Kreme, a well-known United States-based doughnut chain, confirmed on Wednesday (Dec 11) that it was targeted by a cyberattack, disrupting its online systems. Since the security breach, customers across the US have faced issues placing online orders. Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi gives online concert without hijab An Iranian singer was Thursday hailed as a hero by supporters but faced prosecution from the judiciary after giving an online concert not wearing the hijab in defiance of the dress code.

Top 10 world news: West Asia crisis updates; Indian chess prodigy Gukesh scripts history, and more

Syrian rebels attacked the government forces in&nbsp;Aleppo on Friday (Nov 29). This was the first attack by the opposition forces since 2016 when they were ousted from the region after a military campaign.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in the latest in the Ukraine war, energy workers in the war-torn country&nbsp;are carrying out repairs in the country's power facilities despite Russia targeting the country's power grid, according to a report by the news agency Associated Press.&nbsp;

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Florida to meet Donald Trump and talk about the 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods the latter has threatened to impose. Trudeau is hoping to fend off the problem during the talks.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-syrian-rebels-attack-aleppo-for-the-first-time-since-2016-dozens-killed-780363">West Asia Crisis: Syrian rebels attack Aleppo for the first time since 2016, dozens killed</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/30/468762-00036nq6l9.jpg?imwidth=400" />

For the first time since 2016, rebels breached Syria's largest city on Friday (Nov 29) and clashed with government forces. This came as a surprise attack in&nbsp;Aleppo that forced residents to flee the area and added to the uncertainty in the region, which is already facing other conflicts and wars. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-ukrainian-energy-workers-carry-out-repairs-despite-energy-grid-being-targeted-by-russia-780367">Ukraine war: Ukrainian energy workers carry out repairs despite power grid being targeted by Russia</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/30/468764-untitled-1.png?imwidth=400" />

Energy workers in war-torn Ukraine are carrying out repairs in the country's power facilities despite Russia targeting the country's power grid, a report by the news agency Associated Press late Friday (Nov 29) said.&nbsp;Since the Russia-Ukraine war began in late February 2022, repeated Russian strikes on&nbsp;infrastructure have seriously impacted Ukraine’s energy sector often resulting in rolling blackouts across the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-pm-trudeau-in-florida-to-meet-trump-and-discuss-tariffs-threat-780359">Canadian PM Trudeau in Florida to discuss tariffs threat with Trump over dinner&nbsp;at&nbsp;Mar-a-Lago</a>

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Florida to meet Donald Trump and talk about the 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods the latter has threatened to impose. Trudeau is hoping to fend off the problem during the talks.&nbsp;Canadian media reports suggest that the PM landed in Palm Beach International Airport on Friday evening to visit Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blast-damages-canal-feeding-kosovos-main-power-plants-pm-calls-explosion-terrorist-attack-780357">Blast damages canal feeding Kosovo's main power plants, PM calls explosion 'terrorist attack'</a>

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A blast on Friday (Nov 29) evening damaged a canal supplying water to Kosovo's two main coal-fired power plants, Prime Minister Albin Kurti said. Addressing a press conference, Prime Minister Kurti said, "This is a criminal and terrorist attack aimed at damaging our critical infrastructure."

Watch |&nbsp;Iran Plans To Install 6,000 Centrifuges To Enrich Uranium: IAEA

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Syrian rebels attacked the government forces in Aleppo on Friday (Nov 29). This was the first attack by the opposition forces since 2016 when they were ousted from the region after a military campaign.

Syrian rebels attacked the government forces in Aleppo on Friday (Nov 29). This was the first attack by the opposition forces since 2016 when they were ousted from the region after a military campaign. Meanwhile, in the latest in the Ukraine war, energy workers in the war-torn country are carrying out repairs in the country's power facilities despite Russia targeting the country's power grid, according to a report by the news agency Associated Press. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Florida to meet Donald Trump and talk about the 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods the latter has threatened to impose. Trudeau is hoping to fend off the problem during the talks. Click on the headlines to read more West Asia Crisis: Syrian rebels attack Aleppo for the first time since 2016, dozens killed For the first time since 2016, rebels breached Syria's largest city on Friday (Nov 29) and clashed with government forces. This came as a surprise attack in Aleppo that forced residents to flee the area and added to the uncertainty in the region, which is already facing other conflicts and wars. Ukraine war: Ukrainian energy workers carry out repairs despite power grid being targeted by Russia Energy workers in war-torn Ukraine are carrying out repairs in the country's power facilities despite Russia targeting the country's power grid, a report by the news agency Associated Press late Friday (Nov 29) said. Since the Russia-Ukraine war began in late February 2022, repeated Russian strikes on infrastructure have seriously impacted Ukraine’s energy sector often resulting in rolling blackouts across the country. Canadian PM Trudeau in Florida to discuss tariffs threat with Trump over dinner at Mar-a-Lago Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Florida to meet Donald Trump and talk about the 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods the latter has threatened to impose. Trudeau is hoping to fend off the problem during the talks. Canadian media reports suggest that the PM landed in Palm Beach International Airport on Friday evening to visit Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate. Blast damages canal feeding Kosovo's main power plants, PM calls explosion 'terrorist attack' A blast on Friday (Nov 29) evening damaged a canal supplying water to Kosovo's two main coal-fired power plants, Prime Minister Albin Kurti said. Addressing a press conference, Prime Minister Kurti said, "This is a criminal and terrorist attack aimed at damaging our critical infrastructure." Watch | Iran Plans To Install 6,000 Centrifuges To Enrich Uranium: IAEA ×

Morning brief: Trudeau-Trump to meet to discuss tariffs; West Asia crisis updates, and more

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Thursday (Nov. 28) reported the arrival of suspects into Lebanon's southern regions and called it a violation of the ceasefire with Hezbollah, reported news agency Reuters.

Earlier, the Lebanon-based militant organisation said its fighters were "full equipped to deal with the aspirations and assaults of the Israeli enemy” and said their forces had their hands on the "trigger." Earlier, Hezbollah claimed victory in the ongoing conflict with the Jewish nation without any mention of the fragile truce.

Israeli tanks also reportedly launched attacks on six areas in southern Lebanon on Thursday.&nbsp;Reuters reported that IDF tanks struck Markaba, Wazzani and Kfarchouba, all of which lie within two kilometres of the blue line demarcating the border between Lebanon and Israel.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjlytmK8f6JAxVTsVYBHScrLOwQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/idf-and-hezbollah-exchange-fire-israel-lebanese-truce-takes-effect-779700" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/idf-and-hezbollah-exchange-fire-israel-lebanese-truce-takes-effect-779700&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjlytmK8f6JAxVTsVYBHScrLOwQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">IDF And Hezbollah Exchange Fire, Israel-Lebanese Truce Takes Effect</a>

The ceasefire between the two warring sides took effect on Wednesday under a deal brokered by the US and France, intended to allow people in both countries to start returning to homes in border areas.

The Israeli military had urged residents of towns along the border strip not to return yet for their own safety.

Following the announcement of the ceasefire, displaced Lebanese tried returning back to their homes near the southern border but were hindered by Israeli troops still stationed there.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjlytmK8f6JAxVTsVYBHScrLOwQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-welcomes-ceasefire-agreement-between-israel-and-hezbollah-says-always-called-for-de-escalation-779632" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-welcomes-ceasefire-agreement-between-israel-and-hezbollah-says-always-called-for-de-escalation-779632&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjlytmK8f6JAxVTsVYBHScrLOwQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">India welcomes ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, says `always called for de-escalation`</a>

Reuters reported that surveillance drones were still flying over parts of the region even after the truce.

Meanwhile, efforts are going on to establish a ceasefire on the hotter Israeli border with Gaza.&nbsp;

An Egyptian delegation is expected to arrive in the Jewish nation and hold talks for reaching a hostage and ceasefire deal.

"The report also says that Israel will initially be permitted to maintain its military positions within Gaza, but without carrying out operations," reported Times of Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Thursday (Nov. 28) reported the arrival of suspects into Lebanon's southern regions and called it a violation of the ceasefire with Hezbollah, reported news agency Reuters.

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Thursday (Nov. 28) reported the arrival of suspects into Lebanon's southern regions and called it a violation of the ceasefire with Hezbollah, reported news agency Reuters. Earlier, the Lebanon-based militant organisation said its fighters were "full equipped to deal with the aspirations and assaults of the Israeli enemy” and said their forces had their hands on the "trigger." Earlier, Hezbollah claimed victory in the ongoing conflict with the Jewish nation without any mention of the fragile truce. Israeli tanks also reportedly launched attacks on six areas in southern Lebanon on Thursday. Reuters reported that IDF tanks struck Markaba, Wazzani and Kfarchouba, all of which lie within two kilometres of the blue line demarcating the border between Lebanon and Israel. Also read: IDF And Hezbollah Exchange Fire, Israel-Lebanese Truce Takes Effect The ceasefire between the two warring sides took effect on Wednesday under a deal brokered by the US and France, intended to allow people in both countries to start returning to homes in border areas. The Israeli military had urged residents of towns along the border strip not to return yet for their own safety. Following the announcement of the ceasefire, displaced Lebanese tried returning back to their homes near the southern border but were hindered by Israeli troops still stationed there. Also read: India welcomes ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, says `always called for de-escalation` Reuters reported that surveillance drones were still flying over parts of the region even after the truce. Meanwhile, efforts are going on to establish a ceasefire on the hotter Israeli border with Gaza. An Egyptian delegation is expected to arrive in the Jewish nation and hold talks for reaching a hostage and ceasefire deal. "The report also says that Israel will initially be permitted to maintain its military positions within Gaza, but without carrying out operations," reported Times of Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says ceasefire with Hezbollah breached as 'more suspects enter southern Lebanon'

Israel and Lebanon are on the verge of a ceasefire deal to end the conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Axios reported on Monday (Nov 25) citing two Israeli and two US officials.

Israel and Lebanon are on the verge of a ceasefire deal to end the conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Axios reported on Monday (Nov 25) citing two Israeli and two US officials. Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged fire for over a year in parallel with the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, which began on October 7, 2023. Also read | Hezbollah using 'copy' of Israeli missile in war with IDF: Report In more than a year of fighting, over 3,500 people have been killed in Lebanon and more than 15,000 have been injured. A look at the expected ceasefire deal > The Axios report on Monday said that the expected ceasefire deal included a 60-day transition period during which Israeli troops would withdraw from southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Army would be deployed in areas close to the border, and Hezbollah would move its heavy weapons north of the Litani River. > The deal included a US-led oversight committee to monitor implementation and address violations. > The Israeli and American officials told the publication that Washington agreed to give Israel a letter of assurances that included support for Israeli troops' action against imminent threats from Lebanese territory, and for action to disrupt things like the reestablishment of a Hezbollah military presence near the border or the smuggling of heavy weapons. > Axios further reported that as per the deal, Israel would take such action following consultations with the US, and if Lebanon did not deal with the threat. The deal was nearing completion last Thursday (Nov 21) when the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. 'End to Israel-Hezbollah conflict within our grasp' Last week, a senior American mediator said that there was a "real opportunity" to end the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Also watch | WION Fineprint: Won't accept truce deal with Israel, says Hezbollah chief × US mediator Amos Hochstein held talks with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in Beirut, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Following the meeting, Hochstein told reporters, "I came back because we have a real opportunity to bring this conflict to an end." "It is now within our grasp. As the window is now, I hope the coming days yield a resolute decision," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Israel, Lebanon are on verge of ceasefire deal to end Israel-Hezbollah conflict, says report

The crisis in West Asia continues to intensify. On Saturday (Nov 23), Israeli strikes reportedly killed 19 people in the Gaza Strip and 11 people in Beirut, Lebanon.

The crisis in West Asia continues to intensify. On Saturday (Nov 23), Israeli strikes reportedly killed 19 people in the Gaza Strip and 11 people in Beirut, Lebanon. A Gaza's civil defence agency spokesperson told the news agency AFP that 40 others were injured in Saturday's strikes in the Palestinian territory. "Nineteen people were killed and more than 40 others wounded in three massacres caused by Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip between midnight and this morning as well as by tank fire in Rafah in the territory's south," the spokesperson of Gaza's civil defence said. Also read | Netanyahu calls ICC arrest warrant 'antisemitic,' warns of 'severe consequences' Meanwhile, the strikes in Beirut injured 63 people. No evacuation warning from Israel for Beirut "The Israeli enemy strike on Basta al-Fawqa in Beirut killed 11 people, including a large amount of body parts that are being identified. The final death toll will be determined after DNA tests are carried out," the Lebanese health ministry said in a statement. Citing state media, AFP reported that rescuers were seen removing rubble in Al-Mamoun Street in the Basta (neighbourhood), where Israeli enemy aircraft targeted an eight-story building at dawn, destroying it, and leaving a large number of people dead and wounded. State media also said that Saturday's strikes were the second time the Basta district had been targeted since the Israel-Hezbollah conflict in Lebanon began. Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have exchanged fire for over a year in parallel with the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, which began on October 7, 2023. Following a year of cross-border exchanges, Israel dramatically escalated its air campaign in Lebanon in September and later sent ground troops into southern Lebanon to fight Hezbollah. 'Hospitals in Gaza only have two days of fuel left' On Friday, the Palestinian health ministry said that hospitals in Gaza had only two days of fuel left before they must restrict services. Marwan al-Hams, director of Gaza's field hospitals, told reporters all hospitals in the Palestinian territory "will stop working or reduce their services within 48 hours due to the occupation's (Israel's) obstruction of fuel entry." Also watch | The West Asia Post: Hezbollah vows to hit Tel Aviv × This warning came a day after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

West Asia crisis updates: Israeli strikes kill 19 in Gaza, 11 in Beirut

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