In a landmark move, Denmark is considering conscripting women into military service for the first time, reflecting Europe's growing concerns over strained relations with Russia and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasised that the decision to bolster the armed forces is not driven by a desire for conflict but rather by a commitment to preventing it.

The government aims to achieve full gender equality in military service and extend the duration of conscription from four to 11 months.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/7-countries-that-allow-women-in-combat-roles-1684329584171" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/7-countries-that-allow-women-in-combat-roles-1684329584171&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjv1-Gh5vOEAxVJja8BHUtgClUQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0ajpbmuGIBHPniciSWFg_m&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/7-countries-that-allow-women-in-combat-roles-1684329584171" target="_blank">7 Countries That Allow&nbsp;Women In Combat&nbsp;Roles</a>

As part of the proposed defense settlement for 2024-2033, 5,000 conscripts, both male and female, are expected to be enlisted annually starting from 2026.

Last year, around 4,700 individuals served in the military, with women participating on a voluntary basis and typically serving for four months.

Although the plans have yet to be enacted into law, a broad consensus was reached in the Danish parliament last year, highlighting the importance of gender equality in conscription.

Denmark's defense department underscores the need for a significant reinforcement of its armed forces amid mounting concerns about Europe's defense capabilities in light of Russian aggression.

Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen emphasised the necessity of adapting conscription to address evolving security challenges. He also stressed upon the&nbsp;importance of inclusivity across genders in bolstering Denmark's defense capabilities.

Under the proposed 11-month conscription model, recruits will undergo five months of basic training followed by six months of operational service across the army, air force, and navy, alongside ongoing training opportunities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/womens-day-special-meet-indian-armys-women-officers-569848" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/womens-day-special-meet-indian-armys-women-officers-569848&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjbwvq95vOEAxXcwjgGHTfSDCI4ChAWegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0HD3k_InhgAUapHqi9vnzg&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/womens-day-special-meet-indian-armys-women-officers-569848" target="_blank">Meet Indian&nbsp;Army's women&nbsp;officers</a>

Furthermore, some conscripts will be designated as conscription sergeants or lieutenants, contributing to the leadership structure within the military.

Currently, all physically fit men over 18 years old in Denmark can be called up for military service, although voluntary participation is common. The potential inclusion of women in mandatory service reflects a significant shift since women were first permitted to serve voluntarily in 1998.

Flemming Lentfer, Chief of Defense, views the expansion of conscription as essential for enhancing Denmark's combat capabilities, and&nbsp;fostering diversity within the armed forces.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a landmark move, Denmark is considering conscripting women into military service for the first time, reflecting Europe's growing concerns over strained relations with Russia and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

In a landmark move, Denmark is considering conscripting women into military service for the first time, reflecting Europe's growing concerns over strained relations with Russia and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasised that the decision to bolster the armed forces is not driven by a desire for conflict but rather by a commitment to preventing it. The government aims to achieve full gender equality in military service and extend the duration of conscription from four to 11 months. Also read: 7 Countries That Allow Women In Combat Roles As part of the proposed defense settlement for 2024-2033, 5,000 conscripts, both male and female, are expected to be enlisted annually starting from 2026. Last year, around 4,700 individuals served in the military, with women participating on a voluntary basis and typically serving for four months. Although the plans have yet to be enacted into law, a broad consensus was reached in the Danish parliament last year, highlighting the importance of gender equality in conscription. Denmark's defense department underscores the need for a significant reinforcement of its armed forces amid mounting concerns about Europe's defense capabilities in light of Russian aggression. Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen emphasised the necessity of adapting conscription to address evolving security challenges. He also stressed upon the importance of inclusivity across genders in bolstering Denmark's defense capabilities. Under the proposed 11-month conscription model, recruits will undergo five months of basic training followed by six months of operational service across the army, air force, and navy, alongside ongoing training opportunities. Also read: Meet Indian Army's women officers Furthermore, some conscripts will be designated as conscription sergeants or lieutenants, contributing to the leadership structure within the military. Currently, all physically fit men over 18 years old in Denmark can be called up for military service, although voluntary participation is common. The potential inclusion of women in mandatory service reflects a significant shift since women were first permitted to serve voluntarily in 1998. Flemming Lentfer, Chief of Defense, views the expansion of conscription as essential for enhancing Denmark's combat capabilities, and fostering diversity within the armed forces. (With inputs from agencies)

Denmark to start conscripting women for military service

Miss World 2024 Live Streaming Online:&nbsp;The highly anticipated 71st edition of Miss World 2024 promises to captivate audiences, marking a significant return to India after a hiatus of 28 years. Initially slated for the United Arab Emirates, this prestigious beauty pageant will now unfold at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai on Saturday, March 9. Sini Shetty, the winner of Femina Miss India 2022 will be representing India at the Miss World 2024 pageant. On this date, the final event will grace the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai

<h2>Miss World 2024</h2>

According to a recent report from Femina, Indian singer Neha Kakkar is scheduled to perform at the grand finale of the 71st Miss World on March 9th. The event will be broadcasted in more than 140 countries and territories, reaching an audience of over 1 billion people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/saudi-arabia-boosts-sovereign-wealth-fund-transfers-8-pc-stake-in-aramco-worth-1636-bn-697926">Saudi Arabia boosts sovereign wealth fund, transfers 8 pc stake in Aramco worth $163.6 bn</a>

<h2>Miss World 2024 Live Watch&nbsp;Details:</h2>

<h2>When and where to watch Miss World 2024? Live Streaming</h2>

Catch the excitement live! The 71st Miss World can be streamed on Sonyliv on March 9, starting at 7:30 PM (ST), and also on the official website of Miss World that is&nbsp;www.missworld.com.

<h2>Who Will Host the Miss World 2024?</h2>

Filmmaker Karan Johar, returning to the Miss World stage after his jury role in 2006, will host the event alongside Miss World 2013 Megan Young from the Philippines.

<h2>Who will be performing and special guests at the Miss World 2024?</h2>

The grand finale, which commenced on February 18 in New Delhi, will feature a performance by Indian singer Neha Kakkar and her brother Tony Kakkar. Miss World 2021 title winner, Polish model Karolina Bielawska, will also be present to crown the next Miss World, adding to the excitement of this truly global spectacle.

(With inputs from agencies)

Miss World 2024 Live Streaming Online: The highly anticipated 71st edition of Miss World 2024 promises to captivate audiences, marking a significant return to India after a hiatus of 28 years.

Miss World 2024 Live Streaming Online: The highly anticipated 71st edition of Miss World 2024 promises to captivate audiences, marking a significant return to India after a hiatus of 28 years. Initially slated for the United Arab Emirates, this prestigious beauty pageant will now unfold at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai on Saturday, March 9. Sini Shetty, the winner of Femina Miss India 2022 will be representing India at the Miss World 2024 pageant. On this date, the final event will grace the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai Miss World 2024 According to a recent report from Femina, Indian singer Neha Kakkar is scheduled to perform at the grand finale of the 71st Miss World on March 9th. The event will be broadcasted in more than 140 countries and territories, reaching an audience of over 1 billion people. Also read | Saudi Arabia boosts sovereign wealth fund, transfers 8 pc stake in Aramco worth $163.6 bn Miss World 2024 Live Watch Details: When and where to watch Miss World 2024? Live Streaming Catch the excitement live! The 71st Miss World can be streamed on Sonyliv on March 9, starting at 7:30 PM (ST), and also on the official website of Miss World that is www.missworld.com. Who Will Host the Miss World 2024? Filmmaker Karan Johar, returning to the Miss World stage after his jury role in 2006, will host the event alongside Miss World 2013 Megan Young from the Philippines. Who will be performing and special guests at the Miss World 2024? The grand finale, which commenced on February 18 in New Delhi, will feature a performance by Indian singer Neha Kakkar and her brother Tony Kakkar. Miss World 2021 title winner, Polish model Karolina Bielawska, will also be present to crown the next Miss World, adding to the excitement of this truly global spectacle. (With inputs from agencies)

Miss World 2024: Live Streaming Online Platform, Date and Time; When and where to watch App, TV in India

Hamas on March 7 announced that its delegation has left Cairo and discussions on a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release are set to resume next week. In other news, Shehbaz Sharif, after being elected as Pakistan's Prime Minister, thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory wishes. He took to his official X handle and wrote, "Thank you, Narendra Modi,&nbsp;for felicitations on my election as the Prime Minister of Pakistan."

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ceasefire-agreement-unlikely-before-ramadan-as-latest-gaza-negotiations-end-697669">Hamas delegation departs Cairo, Ceasefire negotiations to reconvene next week</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416856-untitled-design-12.png?imwidth=400" />

Hamas on Thursday (March 7) announced that its delegation has left Cairo and discussions on a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release are set to resume next week.&nbsp;This development makes it highly doubtful for mediators to broker a deal before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-thanks-indian-pm-modi-for-congratulatory-wishes-on-becoming-pakistans-pm-697666">Shehbaz Sharif thanks Modi for congratulatory wishes on becoming Pakistan PM</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/05/416237-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

Shehbaz Sharif, after being elected as Pakistan's&nbsp;Prime Minister, used X (formerly Twitter) to thank Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory wishes.&nbsp;On Monday (Mar 4), Shehbaz, representing a six-party coalition led by his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan People's Party (PPP), was sworn in as Pakistan's 24th Prime Minister.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ai-mission-cabinet-approves-plan-with-outlay-of-125-billion-697716">'India AI Mission': Cabinet approves plan with outlay of $1.25bn</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416888-wion-images-2024-03-07t205353041.png?imwidth=400" />

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday (Mar 7) approved the artificial intelligence (AI) Mission with a budget&nbsp;outlay of $1.25 billion (over Rs 10,300 crore), said Commerce and Industry Minister&nbsp;Piyush Goyal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-kids-two-adults-found-dead-inside-two-storey-house-in-canadas-ottawa-homicide-unit-investigates-697705">Four kids, two adults found dead inside two-storey house in Canada's Ottawa</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416891-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-03-07t210140215.jpg?imwidth=400" />

In the Ottawa suburb of Barrhaven,&nbsp;four children and two adults were found dead inside a two-storey townhouse on Berrigan Drive late Wednesday night (March 6). Ottawa police responded to 911 calls just before 11 pm, leading to one arrest.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-feeling-of-coming-to-heaven-on-earth-modi-in-kashmir-for-first-time-since-revocation-of-article-370-697555">Feels like visiting heaven on Earth, says PM Modi in Srinagar</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416781-untitled-design-28.png?imwidth=400" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in Srinagar for the first time since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, on Thursday (Mar 7) called his visit to the Valley being akin to "coming to heaven on earth". Addressing the "Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir" programme at the Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, Prime Minister Modi said, "This is the new Jammu and Kashmir for which we all were waiting for many decades. This is the new Kashmir for which Dr&nbsp;Shyama Prasad Mukherjee sacrificed his life."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-dead-in-explosion-at-irans-bandar-abbas-refiner-697600">Several dead in explosion at Iran oil refinery</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416809-untitled-design-7.png?imwidth=400" />

At least two individuals sustained injuries during a maintenance operation at the Aftab oil refinery in Bandar Abbas, Iran, as reported by Iranian state media outlets on Thursday (March 7).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rail-and-air-workers-in-germany-stage-new-round-of-strikes-697621">Rail and air workers in Germany stage new round of strikes</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416822-untitled-design-8.png?imwidth=400" />

Thousands of passengers in Germany faced travel misery on Thursday (March 7) as rail and airport employees staged new strikes demanding&nbsp;higher wages.&nbsp;The country has been grappling with ongoing strikes, with workers and management engaged in negotiations amid challenges posed by high inflation and sluggish business activity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-protest-punjab-haryana-hc-orders-judicial-inquiry-into-death-of-farmer-shubhkaran-singh-697683">India farmers' protest: Punjab &amp; Haryana HC orders judicial inquiry into death of farmer Shubhkaran Singh</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416865-succession-2024-03-07t192504903.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Amid the ongoing farmers' protest in India, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Thursday (March 7) ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident of farmer Shubhkaran Singh's death.&nbsp;Singh died last month during a skirmish that broke out between protesting farmers and the Haryana security personnel at Khanauri border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-redbull-suspends-woman-who-accused-christian-horner-of-inappropriate-behaviour-in-shock-twist-697677">Red Bull suspend woman who accused Christian Horner of inappropriate conduct</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/20/413187-mixcollage-20-feb-2024-01-17-pm-2261.jpg?imwidth=400" />

In a wild twist to the Christian Horner 'sexting' scandal, Red Bull have suspended the woman who accused him of inappropriate behaviour, according to a&nbsp;BBC&nbsp;report.&nbsp;The Formula 1 team's decision comes a week after completing an internal investigation in which Horner was given the clean chit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-operative-mohammad-qasim-gujjar-declared-designated-terrorist-by-indian-govt-697662">LeT operative Mohammad Qasim Gujjar declared designated terrorist by Indian govt</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416851-untitled-design-10.png?imwidth=400" />

The Union Home Ministry on Thursday (March 7) officially labelled Mohammad Qasim Gujjar, also known as Salman or Suleman, a member of Lashkar-e-Taiba residing in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

&nbsp;

Hamas on March 7 announced that its delegation has left Cairo and discussions on a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release are set to resume next week. In other news, Shehbaz Sharif, after being elected as Pakistan's Prime Minister, thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory wishes.

Hamas on March 7 announced that its delegation has left Cairo and discussions on a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release are set to resume next week. In other news, Shehbaz Sharif, after being elected as Pakistan's Prime Minister, thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory wishes. He took to his official X handle and wrote, "Thank you, Narendra Modi, for felicitations on my election as the Prime Minister of Pakistan." Click on the headlines to read more. Hamas delegation departs Cairo, Ceasefire negotiations to reconvene next week Hamas on Thursday (March 7) announced that its delegation has left Cairo and discussions on a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release are set to resume next week. This development makes it highly doubtful for mediators to broker a deal before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Shehbaz Sharif thanks Modi for congratulatory wishes on becoming Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, after being elected as Pakistan's Prime Minister, used X (formerly Twitter) to thank Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory wishes. On Monday (Mar 4), Shehbaz, representing a six-party coalition led by his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan People's Party (PPP), was sworn in as Pakistan's 24th Prime Minister. 'India AI Mission': Cabinet approves plan with outlay of $1.25bn The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday (Mar 7) approved the artificial intelligence (AI) Mission with a budget outlay of $1.25 billion (over Rs 10,300 crore), said Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Four kids, two adults found dead inside two-storey house in Canada's Ottawa In the Ottawa suburb of Barrhaven, four children and two adults were found dead inside a two-storey townhouse on Berrigan Drive late Wednesday night (March 6). Ottawa police responded to 911 calls just before 11 pm, leading to one arrest. Feels like visiting heaven on Earth, says PM Modi in Srinagar Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in Srinagar for the first time since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, on Thursday (Mar 7) called his visit to the Valley being akin to "coming to heaven on earth". Addressing the "Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir" programme at the Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, Prime Minister Modi said, "This is the new Jammu and Kashmir for which we all were waiting for many decades. This is the new Kashmir for which Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee sacrificed his life." Several dead in explosion at Iran oil refinery At least two individuals sustained injuries during a maintenance operation at the Aftab oil refinery in Bandar Abbas, Iran, as reported by Iranian state media outlets on Thursday (March 7). Rail and air workers in Germany stage new round of strikes Thousands of passengers in Germany faced travel misery on Thursday (March 7) as rail and airport employees staged new strikes demanding higher wages. The country has been grappling with ongoing strikes, with workers and management engaged in negotiations amid challenges posed by high inflation and sluggish business activity. India farmers' protest: Punjab & Haryana HC orders judicial inquiry into death of farmer Shubhkaran Singh Amid the ongoing farmers' protest in India, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Thursday (March 7) ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident of farmer Shubhkaran Singh's death. Singh died last month during a skirmish that broke out between protesting farmers and the Haryana security personnel at Khanauri border. Red Bull suspend woman who accused Christian Horner of inappropriate conduct In a wild twist to the Christian Horner 'sexting' scandal, Red Bull have suspended the woman who accused him of inappropriate behaviour, according to a BBC report. The Formula 1 team's decision comes a week after completing an internal investigation in which Horner was given the clean chit. LeT operative Mohammad Qasim Gujjar declared designated terrorist by Indian govt The Union Home Ministry on Thursday (March 7) officially labelled Mohammad Qasim Gujjar, also known as Salman or Suleman, a member of Lashkar-e-Taiba residing in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

Top 10 world news: Gaza truce talks to reconvene next week, Shehbaz Sharif thanks Indian PM Modi, and more

A Hamas delegation on Sunday (Mar 3) arrived in Cairo as talks to hammer out a Gaza truce gain&nbsp;momentum. Mediators from Qatar and the US also arrived in Egypt’s capital on Sunday amid indications that Israel has agreed to the six-week truce deal currently in the works. In other news, a&nbsp;German minister on Sunday (Mar 3) claimed Russian President Vladimir Putin was seeking to destabilise the country using the wiretap leak. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, "It is about using this recording to destabilise and unsettle us," adding that he "hoped that Putin will not succeed".

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gaza-war-israel-boycotts-cairo-talks-with-hamas-over-unknown-fate-of-hostages-696213">Gaza war: Israel boycotts Cairo talks with Hamas over unknown fate of hostages</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/03/415913-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

A Hamas delegation on Sunday (Mar 3) arrived in Cairo as talks to hammer out a Gaza truce gain&nbsp;momentum. According to local media reports, mediators from Qatar and the US also arrived in Egypt’s capital on Sunday amid indications that Israel has agreed to the six-week truce deal currently in the works. However, the Jewish nation has reportedly boycotted the talks over the unknown fate of hostages still held by the Palestinian militant group.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-demands-explanation-from-germany-after-call-recording-over-ukraine-gets-leaked-696199">Ukraine war: Russia demands explanation from Berlin over ‘call recording’ leak</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/03/415902-thumbsbcbda1f629b79efb269b3e2807caef6ff9.jpg?imwidth=400" />

In what comes as a massive embarrassment for Berlin, alleged call recordings of the German defence forces over the Ukraine war were posted on Russian social media by a state-backed journalist. Margarita Simonyan, the head of the Russia Today (RT) channel, posted the audio clip on her telegram channel, allegedly featuring German officers “discussing how to strike the Crimea bridge”, which links Russia to the Ukrainian peninsula.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modi-chairs-council-of-ministers-meeting-for-viksit-bharat-2047-plan-discuss-100-day-agenda-696207">PM Modi chairs brainstorming session to discuss ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ plan</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/03/415907-wion-images-2024-03-03t195104404.png?imwidth=400" />

During the last formal meeting of the Council of Ministers ahead of the upcoming general elections, on Sunday (Mar 3) the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a brainstorming session on the document ‘Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047,’ reported news agencies citing sources from the Government of India.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-designate-shehbaz-sharif-announces-aim-to-join-g20-in-2030-in-first-speech-top-points-696200">Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif announces aim to join G20, rakes up Kashmir: Top points</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/03/415903-wion-images-2024-03-03t192108168.png?imwidth=400" />

Weeks after the contentious February 8 elections and the political crisis that followed, former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) leader and brother of the three-time ex-PM Nawaz Sharif won enough votes in the country’s National Assembly to retake the premiership.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-pushes-for-new-search-10-years-after-disappearance-of-flight-mh370-696196">Malaysia may launch new search 10 years after disappearance of flight MH370</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/03/415898-mh370.png?imwidth=400" />

A Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 mysteriously disappeared from radar screens on March 8, 2014, becoming one of Malaysia's deadliest aviation incidents.&nbsp;Ten years after the tragic incident, relatives of passengers on Sunday (Mar 3) pushed for a new search as they spoke of enduring grief and the struggle to find closure.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/im-definitely-giving-up-pat-cummins-shares-potential-timeline-of-quitting-australia-captaincy-696179">'I'm definitely giving up...,' Skipper Cummins on quitting Australia captaincy</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/21/394575-1-2023-11-21t225134261.png?imwidth=400" />

Australia skipper Pat Cummins says that he'll quit the captaincy the day ace spinner Nathan Lyon retires. Cummins, however, backs Lyon to continue for four more years, given the spinner takes care of his body. The Aussie skipper made the remarks following Australia's 172-run win over New Zealand in the first Test on Sunday, March 3. Notably, Lyon took a six-fer in second innings to help Australia win - his 24th in the Tests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-to-10-in-russian-drone-attack-on-ukraines-odesa-zelensky-calls-for-western-air-defence-696164">Death toll rises to 10 in Russian drone attack on Ukraine's Odesa; Zelensky calls for Western air defence</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/03/415881-wion-images-2024-03-03t164318506.png?imwidth=400" />

The death toll after a Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa rose to 10, on Sunday (Mar 3) after rescuers found two more bodies of a woman and her eight-month-old baby. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian president called on Western countries to ramp up the delivery of air defence systems after a barrage of Russian strikes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-former-health-minister-harsh-vardhan-quits-politics-says-my-clinic-awaits-my-return-696193">Lok Sabha polls 2024: Former Health Minister Harsh Vardhan quits politics, says ‘my clinic awaits my return’</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/03/415900-succession-2024-03-03t184939863.jpg?imwidth=400" />

India's former Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday (March 3) announced his decision to quit politics stating that his clinic awaits his return.&nbsp;The development comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (March 2) announced its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections that are set to take place in the month of May.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-iran-backed-houthi-rebel-group-says-will-continue-sinking-british-ships-after-rubymar-attack-696225">Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group says will continue sinking British ships after Rubymar attack</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/03/415924-succession-2024-03-03t201820234.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group on Sunday (March 3) said that it will continue to strike British ships in the Gulf of Aden after UK-owned vessel Rubymar sunk in the Red Sea.&nbsp;"Yemen will continue to sink more British ships, and any repercussions or other damages will be added to Britain's bill," Hussein al-Ezzi, deputy foreign minister in the Houthi-led government, said in a post on X.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modi-set-to-attend-bharat-shakti-war-game-in-pokhran-exhibiting-indigenous-capabilities-696186">India: PM Modi set to attend ‘Bharat Shakti’ war game in Pokhran exhibiting indigenous capabilities</a>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the war game ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Rajasthan’s Pokhran on March 12 which is likely to coincide with the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule.&nbsp;The top brass of the tri-services, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, are also scheduled to attend the warfare event.

A Hamas delegation on Sunday (Mar 3) arrived in Cairo as talks to hammer out a Gaza truce gain momentum. Mediators from Qatar and the US also arrived in Egypt’s capital on Sunday amid indications that Israel has agreed to the six-week truce deal currently in the works.

A Hamas delegation on Sunday (Mar 3) arrived in Cairo as talks to hammer out a Gaza truce gain momentum. Mediators from Qatar and the US also arrived in Egypt’s capital on Sunday amid indications that Israel has agreed to the six-week truce deal currently in the works. In other news, a German minister on Sunday (Mar 3) claimed Russian President Vladimir Putin was seeking to destabilise the country using the wiretap leak. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, "It is about using this recording to destabilise and unsettle us," adding that he "hoped that Putin will not succeed". Click on the headlines to read more. Gaza war: Israel boycotts Cairo talks with Hamas over unknown fate of hostages A Hamas delegation on Sunday (Mar 3) arrived in Cairo as talks to hammer out a Gaza truce gain momentum. According to local media reports, mediators from Qatar and the US also arrived in Egypt’s capital on Sunday amid indications that Israel has agreed to the six-week truce deal currently in the works. However, the Jewish nation has reportedly boycotted the talks over the unknown fate of hostages still held by the Palestinian militant group. Ukraine war: Russia demands explanation from Berlin over ‘call recording’ leak In what comes as a massive embarrassment for Berlin, alleged call recordings of the German defence forces over the Ukraine war were posted on Russian social media by a state-backed journalist. Margarita Simonyan, the head of the Russia Today (RT) channel, posted the audio clip on her telegram channel, allegedly featuring German officers “discussing how to strike the Crimea bridge”, which links Russia to the Ukrainian peninsula. PM Modi chairs brainstorming session to discuss ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ plan During the last formal meeting of the Council of Ministers ahead of the upcoming general elections, on Sunday (Mar 3) the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a brainstorming session on the document ‘Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047,’ reported news agencies citing sources from the Government of India. Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif announces aim to join G20, rakes up Kashmir: Top points Weeks after the contentious February 8 elections and the political crisis that followed, former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) leader and brother of the three-time ex-PM Nawaz Sharif won enough votes in the country’s National Assembly to retake the premiership. Malaysia may launch new search 10 years after disappearance of flight MH370 A Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 mysteriously disappeared from radar screens on March 8, 2014, becoming one of Malaysia's deadliest aviation incidents. Ten years after the tragic incident, relatives of passengers on Sunday (Mar 3) pushed for a new search as they spoke of enduring grief and the struggle to find closure. 'I'm definitely giving up...,' Skipper Cummins on quitting Australia captaincy Australia skipper Pat Cummins says that he'll quit the captaincy the day ace spinner Nathan Lyon retires. Cummins, however, backs Lyon to continue for four more years, given the spinner takes care of his body. The Aussie skipper made the remarks following Australia's 172-run win over New Zealand in the first Test on Sunday, March 3. Notably, Lyon took a six-fer in second innings to help Australia win - his 24th in the Tests. Death toll rises to 10 in Russian drone attack on Ukraine's Odesa; Zelensky calls for Western air defence The death toll after a Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa rose to 10, on Sunday (Mar 3) after rescuers found two more bodies of a woman and her eight-month-old baby. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian president called on Western countries to ramp up the delivery of air defence systems after a barrage of Russian strikes. Lok Sabha polls 2024: Former Health Minister Harsh Vardhan quits politics, says ‘my clinic awaits my return’ India's former Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday (March 3) announced his decision to quit politics stating that his clinic awaits his return. The development comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (March 2) announced its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections that are set to take place in the month of May. Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group says will continue sinking British ships after Rubymar attack Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group on Sunday (March 3) said that it will continue to strike British ships in the Gulf of Aden after UK-owned vessel Rubymar sunk in the Red Sea. "Yemen will continue to sink more British ships, and any repercussions or other damages will be added to Britain's bill," Hussein al-Ezzi, deputy foreign minister in the Houthi-led government, said in a post on X. India: PM Modi set to attend ‘Bharat Shakti’ war game in Pokhran exhibiting indigenous capabilities Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the war game ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Rajasthan’s Pokhran on March 12 which is likely to coincide with the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule. The top brass of the tri-services, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, are also scheduled to attend the warfare event.

Top 10 world news: Israel 'boycotts' Cairo talks with Hamas; India General Election 2024 updates, and more

With a sweeping of early states under his belt, the former president is speeding toward the Republican nomination. Nikki Haley, though, declared she was going to keep fighting. The former president has emerged victorious in all of the GOP nominating contests held so far. Watch to know more!

US Elections 2024: Donald Trump wins South Carolina Primary, defeats Haley in her home state

The Ukrainian military has claimed to have&nbsp;downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane. Ukraine's Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk thanked his service and military intelligence for taking measures to bring down the suspected 'spy' plane, which they claimed was a long-range radar detection aircraft and emphasised how the incident coincided with a key Russian military holiday. Russia has not yet commented on these claims by Ukraine. In other news, US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-down-second-russian-spy-plane-in-weeks-as-war-completes-two-years-693315">Ukraine claims to down second Russian 'spy' plane in weeks</a>

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Ukraine said&nbsp;they have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane, which is the second such claim made by them in just a month. According to Ukrainian military sources, the plane was destroyed between the Russian cities of Rostov-on-Don and Krasnodar and nearly 200km from the front line.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-jets-intercept-high-altitude-balloon-drifting-across-utah-norad-says-no-national-security-threat-693301">US jets intercept high-altitude balloon drifting across Utah</a>

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US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country, media reports said citing officials. US officials reportedly confirmed that while the object posed no national security threat, where it originated from.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-extends-support-to-ivf-treatment-after-alabama-ruling-693338">Donald Trump extends support to IVF treatment after Alabama ruling</a>

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United States former president Donald Trump has said he supports&nbsp;IVF treatments, as he joins&nbsp;the list of Republicans who have distanced themselves from a ruling given by an Alabama court over the issue.&nbsp;The top court of the state last week ruled that frozen embryos have similar rights as children and&nbsp;people can be held liable for destroying them.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-spaceship-odysseus-may-have-tipped-over-on-moon-surface-likely-fractured-landing-equipment-693303">US spaceship Odysseus might have 'tipped over' on Moon surface</a>

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Odysseus, which etched&nbsp;its name in the history books by becoming the first American US spaceship to have landed on the moon in over 50 years, might have tipped over on the surface of the Earth's natural satellite. Steve Altemus, the CEO of Intuitive Machines, the private company that prepared the spaceship, reportedly said,&nbsp;"We might have fractured that landing gear and tipped over gently."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Trump attacks Nikki Haley as she faces overwhelming odds in home state primary

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The Ukrainian military has claimed to have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane. Ukraine's Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk thanked his service and military intelligence for taking measures to bring down the suspected 'spy' plane, which they claimed was a long-range radar detection aircraft and emphasised how the incident coincided with a key Russian military holiday.

The Ukrainian military has claimed to have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane. Ukraine's Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk thanked his service and military intelligence for taking measures to bring down the suspected 'spy' plane, which they claimed was a long-range radar detection aircraft and emphasised how the incident coincided with a key Russian military holiday. Russia has not yet commented on these claims by Ukraine. In other news, US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country. Click on the headlines to read more. Ukraine claims to down second Russian 'spy' plane in weeks Ukraine said they have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane, which is the second such claim made by them in just a month. According to Ukrainian military sources, the plane was destroyed between the Russian cities of Rostov-on-Don and Krasnodar and nearly 200km from the front line. US jets intercept high-altitude balloon drifting across Utah US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country, media reports said citing officials. US officials reportedly confirmed that while the object posed no national security threat, where it originated from. Donald Trump extends support to IVF treatment after Alabama ruling United States former president Donald Trump has said he supports IVF treatments, as he joins the list of Republicans who have distanced themselves from a ruling given by an Alabama court over the issue. The top court of the state last week ruled that frozen embryos have similar rights as children and people can be held liable for destroying them. US spaceship Odysseus might have 'tipped over' on Moon surface Odysseus, which etched its name in the history books by becoming the first American US spaceship to have landed on the moon in over 50 years, might have tipped over on the surface of the Earth's natural satellite. Steve Altemus, the CEO of Intuitive Machines, the private company that prepared the spaceship, reportedly said, "We might have fractured that landing gear and tipped over gently." Watch | Trump attacks Nikki Haley as she faces overwhelming odds in home state primary ×

Morning brief: Ukraine claims to down Russian 'spy' plane, US jets intercept high-altitude balloon, and more

Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by an Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war. At the time of filing this report, 40 militants have been killed in the US strikes. In other news, Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi were sentenced to seven years of imprisonment each by a Rawalpindi court in the "un-Islamic nikah" case on Saturday (Feb 3).

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-deepens-as-nearly-40-killed-in-us-strikes-on-iran-backed-groups-in-iraq-and-syria-686682">Middle East crisis deepens as US strikes Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409827-untitled-design-2024-02-03t172840620.png?imwidth=500" />

US President Joe Biden said that he directed the country's military to strike targets in Syria and Iraq.&nbsp;Washington ordered attack on&nbsp;"IRGC [Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps] and affiliated militia".&nbsp;The United States has some 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in neighbouring Iraq as part of an international coalition against the Islamic State group, a jihadist organisation that once controlled swathes of both countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-bushra-bibi-sentenced-to-7-years-imprisonment-in-un-islamic-nikah-case-686675">Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 7 years in 'un-Islamic nikah' case</a>

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The case is related to their marriage which took place during Bushra Bibi's Iddat period. The verdict was announced by senior civil judge Qudratullah after the complaint was filed by Bushra’s former husband Khawar Fareed Maneka, who called their marriage “un-Islamic and illegal”, in a makeshift court located at the Adiala district jail.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/honour-for-my-principles-advani-reacts-as-pm-modi-announces-bharat-ratna-honour-686706">'Honour for my principles': Advani reacts as PM Modi announces Bharat Ratna</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409843-untitled-design-2024-02-03t191735356.png?imwidth=500" />

Less than two weeks after the temple of Lord Ram was consecrated at his birthplace in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Bharatiya Janata Party co-founder Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred with the country's top civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna.&nbsp;The 96-year-old veteran greeted media and people at his New Delhi residence shortly after the announcement was made.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michelle-oneill-hails-new-dawn-for-n-ireland-after-appointed-first-minister-686737">Michelle O'Neill hails 'new dawn' for N Ireland after appointed first minister</a>

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Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill on Saturday hailed her "historic" appointment as Northern Ireland's new first minister, the first time a pro-Irish unity nationalist has led the UK territory's devolved government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chile-declares-state-of-emergency-as-10-people-feared-dead-in-massive-forest-fires-686717">Chile declares state of emergency as 10 people feared dead in forest fires</a>

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The Chile government on Friday (Feb 3) declared a state of emergency after a massive, rapidly expanding wildfire engulfed nearly 480 hectares encircling a residential area in the central Valparaiso region threatening hundreds of homes.&nbsp;The officials fear that the forest fires have claimed the lives of 10 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/e-jean-carrolls-lawyer-says-trump-used-coded-version-of-c-word-against-her-686678">E Jean Carroll's lawyer says Trump used coded version of C-word against her</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409825-untitled-design-2024-02-03t165858432.png?imwidth=500" />

American writer E Jean Carroll's lawyer Roberta Kapalan has said that former United States president Donald Trump used a coded version of the C-word (C**t) against her during a deposition before she helped Carroll win the verdict in her defamation case against him. Kaplan made this remark during a podcast,&nbsp;reported&nbsp;The Guardian on Friday (Feb 2).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-many-people-injured-in-knife-attack-at-railway-station-in-paris-suspected-arrested-686625">Three injured in knife attack at major railway station in Paris, suspect arrested</a>

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Three people were injured in a knife attack at a major railway station in Paris on Saturday (Feb 3). According to a report by the news agency AFP, the attack took place at the Gare de Lyon railway station. The attack occurred at 8 am local time leaving one person with serious injuries while two others were mildly&nbsp;wounded.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boss-of-one-of-italys-most-violent-mafia-captured-in-france-686686">Boss of one of Italy's most violent mafia captured in France</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409830-untitled-design-2024-02-03t180146592.png?imwidth=500" />

A fugitive boss of one of Italy's most violent mafia has been captured in France, the governments of both countries said on Friday (Feb 2). Marco Raduano was detained on the French island of Corsica, a report by the news agency AFP said. Raduano is on Europol's list of Europe's most wanted criminals. Italian authorities on Friday also announced the detention of Raduano's close aide Gianluigi Troiano, who was picked up near Granada in southern Spain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-eng-dont-overhype-his-achievements-let-him-enjoy-his-cricket-gambhir-on-jaiswals-209-686733">IND v ENG: Don’t overhype his achievements, let him enjoy his cricket - Gambhir on Jaiswal’s 209</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409860-untitled-design-2024-02-03t210403244.png?imwidth=500" />

Former opener Gautam Gambhir has asked the Indian fans not to overhype Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 209 in the first innings of the Vizag Test against England. Gambhir - the last Indian left-hander to complete a Test double ton (in 2008 against Australia), urged everyone to let Jaiswal enjoy his cricket instead of putting pressure on him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-punjabs-governor-resigns-in-a-sudden-move-cites-personal-reasons-686671">India: Punjab governor resigns in a sudden move, cites 'personal reasons'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409820-untitled-design-2024-02-03t162200246.png?imwidth=500" />

In a sudden move, the governor of the Indian state of Punjab Banwarilal Purohit resigned citing “personal reasons and certain other commitments". The resignation of Purohit came a day after he met Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi.

Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by an Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war.

Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by an Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war. At the time of filing this report, 40 militants have been killed in the US strikes. In other news, Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi were sentenced to seven years of imprisonment each by a Rawalpindi court in the "un-Islamic nikah" case on Saturday (Feb 3). Click on the headlines to read more. Middle East crisis deepens as US strikes Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria US President Joe Biden said that he directed the country's military to strike targets in Syria and Iraq. Washington ordered attack on "IRGC [Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps] and affiliated militia". The United States has some 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in neighbouring Iraq as part of an international coalition against the Islamic State group, a jihadist organisation that once controlled swathes of both countries. Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 7 years in 'un-Islamic nikah' case The case is related to their marriage which took place during Bushra Bibi's Iddat period. The verdict was announced by senior civil judge Qudratullah after the complaint was filed by Bushra’s former husband Khawar Fareed Maneka, who called their marriage “un-Islamic and illegal”, in a makeshift court located at the Adiala district jail. 'Honour for my principles': Advani reacts as PM Modi announces Bharat Ratna Less than two weeks after the temple of Lord Ram was consecrated at his birthplace in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Bharatiya Janata Party co-founder Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred with the country's top civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna. The 96-year-old veteran greeted media and people at his New Delhi residence shortly after the announcement was made. Michelle O'Neill hails 'new dawn' for N Ireland after appointed first minister Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill on Saturday hailed her "historic" appointment as Northern Ireland's new first minister, the first time a pro-Irish unity nationalist has led the UK territory's devolved government. Chile declares state of emergency as 10 people feared dead in forest fires The Chile government on Friday (Feb 3) declared a state of emergency after a massive, rapidly expanding wildfire engulfed nearly 480 hectares encircling a residential area in the central Valparaiso region threatening hundreds of homes. The officials fear that the forest fires have claimed the lives of 10 people. E Jean Carroll's lawyer says Trump used coded version of C-word against her American writer E Jean Carroll's lawyer Roberta Kapalan has said that former United States president Donald Trump used a coded version of the C-word (C**t) against her during a deposition before she helped Carroll win the verdict in her defamation case against him. Kaplan made this remark during a podcast, reported The Guardian on Friday (Feb 2). Three injured in knife attack at major railway station in Paris, suspect arrested Three people were injured in a knife attack at a major railway station in Paris on Saturday (Feb 3). According to a report by the news agency AFP, the attack took place at the Gare de Lyon railway station. The attack occurred at 8 am local time leaving one person with serious injuries while two others were mildly wounded. Boss of one of Italy's most violent mafia captured in France A fugitive boss of one of Italy's most violent mafia has been captured in France, the governments of both countries said on Friday (Feb 2). Marco Raduano was detained on the French island of Corsica, a report by the news agency AFP said. Raduano is on Europol's list of Europe's most wanted criminals. Italian authorities on Friday also announced the detention of Raduano's close aide Gianluigi Troiano, who was picked up near Granada in southern Spain. IND v ENG: Don’t overhype his achievements, let him enjoy his cricket - Gambhir on Jaiswal’s 209 Former opener Gautam Gambhir has asked the Indian fans not to overhype Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 209 in the first innings of the Vizag Test against England. Gambhir - the last Indian left-hander to complete a Test double ton (in 2008 against Australia), urged everyone to let Jaiswal enjoy his cricket instead of putting pressure on him. India: Punjab governor resigns in a sudden move, cites 'personal reasons' In a sudden move, the governor of the Indian state of Punjab Banwarilal Purohit resigned citing “personal reasons and certain other commitments". The resignation of Purohit came a day after he met Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi.

Top 10 news: US strikes Iran-backed groups in Iraq & Syria, Imran Khan and wife sentenced to 7 years, and more

Israeli strikes in Syria on Monday killed seven people, including pro-Iran fighters, a war monitor said, in the latest such attack in the country against groups loyal to Tehran. In other news, the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) parliamentary group has agreed to submit an impeachment motion against President Mohamed Muizzu in light of the recent diplomatic tussle with ally nations such as India.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-israeli-strikes-in-syria-kill-7-including-pro-iran-fighters-684894">Middle East: Israeli strikes in Syria kill 7, including pro-Iran fighters</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/29/408759-israel-gaza-border.png?imwidth=500" />

Israeli strikes in Syria on Monday killed seven people, including pro-Iran fighters, a war monitor said, in the latest such attack in the country against groups loyal to Tehran.&nbsp;"Israeli strikes targeted a base belonging to Hezbollah and Iran's Revolutionary Guards, killing seven people" including pro-Iran fighters, said Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-opposition-agrees-to-submit-impeachment-motion-against-president-muizzu-684759">Maldives: Opposition to submit impeachment motion against Prez Muizzu</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/08/404391-untitled-design-2024-01-08t130831950.png?imwidth=500" />

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) parliamentary group has agreed to submit an impeachment motion against&nbsp;President Mohamed Muizzu in light of the recent diplomatic tussle with ally nations such as India.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-farmers-block-highways-amid-protests-against-government-thousands-of-police-deployed-684896">French farmers block highways amid protests against government, thousands of police deployed</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/29/408753-french-farmers.png?imwidth=500" />

French farmers on Monday (Jan 29) started blocking several motorways around Paris, demanding better working conditions, higher pay and less red tape.&nbsp;The massive protests forced the authorities to deploy thousands of police to guard a fresh food market and airports in the French capital.&nbsp;The farmers say that these problematic policies undermine their ability to compete with other countries.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-frees-iranian-fishing-boat-hijacked-off-somalia-684788">Indian Navy frees Iranian fishing boat hijacked off Somalia</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/29/408702-indian-navy-2.png?imwidth=500" />

Indian Navy said on Monday (Jan 29) that it freed an Iranian fishing vessel which was hijacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia. This happened after the latest attack against shipping in the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-countries-pausing-funding-for-unrwa-might-be-violating-genocide-convention-heres-how-684886">Explained: Pausing funding for UNRWA may be violating genocide convention</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/29/408754-yearender-2023-29.png?imwidth=500" />

Over a dozen countries, including the United States and more recently&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-suspends-financial-support-to-unrwa-amid-allegations-of-staff-involvement-in-gaza-attack-684707">Japan&nbsp;</a>and Austria, have suspended funds for the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees after Israel accused some of its employees of participating in the October 7 attack by Hamas. However, a UN expert said that these countries may be violating the World Court order to provide effective aid in Gaza.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-sets-visa-record-in-india-processes-record-14-million-applications-in-2023-684863">US sets visa record in India, processes 1.4 million applications in 2023</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/29/408738-succession-2024-01-29t195523020.jpg?imwidth=500" />

The United States issued a record 1.4 million visas for Indians in the year 2023, which is the highest so far, slashing the visitor visa appointment wait time&nbsp;by 75 per cent.&nbsp;The US Embassy and Consulates in India released a statement saying that now Indians represent one out of every 10 US visa applicants around the globe. "In 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-smashing 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes was unprecedented, with a 60 per cent increase in applications compared to 2022. Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world," the statement read.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-jee-aspirant-pens-heartbreaking-note-for-parents-before-committing-suicide-in-rajasthans-kota-684819">Indian student pens heartbreaking note for parents before dying by suicide</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/29/408709-succession-2024-01-29t171929521.jpg?imwidth=500" />

A teenage girl preparing for the competitive Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) died by suicide on Monday (Jan 29) in India's Kota city.&nbsp;She left behind a note to her parents saying she was sorry, calling herself a “loser”. “Mummy, papa I can't do JEE. So I suicide,” the note scribbled in English said, according to police.&nbsp;“I am a loser. I am worst daughter. Sorry mummy papa. Yahi last option he (this is the last option),” the note found in Niharika Singh's room added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/skating-russias-kamila-valieva-handed-four-year-ban-for-doping-roc-loses-olympic-gold-684865">Skating: Russia’s Kamila Valieva handed four-year ban for doping</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/29/408739-mixcollage-29-jan-2024-08-08-pm-2713.jpg?imwidth=500" />

In a huge blow to Russian skater Kamila Valieva, she has received a four-year doping suspension. The development was&nbsp;confirmed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport&nbsp;on Monday (Jan 29)&nbsp;after the skater failed&nbsp;a doping test ahead of&nbsp;the 2022 Winter Olympics. With this, the move has effectively stripped the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) of its gold medal in the team event from the&nbsp;Beijing Olympics two years back.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kate-middleton-princess-of-wales-leaves-hospital-after-abdominal-surgery-684829">Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, leaves hospital after abdominal surgery</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/16/352144-untitled-design-2023-05-16t185438528.jpg?imwidth=500" />

Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, has left hospital following her abdominal surgery. On Monday, the Kensington Palace office said that Kate is making "good progress" at home.&nbsp;The 42-year-old princess was being treated at a private London hospital after her surgery which took place on January 17. After almost two weeks, Kate is back to her home at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-kim-jong-un-reportedly-tears-down-fathers-reunification-monument-why-is-it-a-big-deal-684814">Explained | Kim Jong Un reportedly tears down father’s reunification monument. Why is it a big deal?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/29/408705-yearender-2023-26.png?imwidth=500" />

North Korea has reportedly demolished a major monument which symbolised the goal of reconciliation with South Korea following the orders of their leader Kim Jong Un who called the massive structure that his father constructed in the capital city Pyongyang, an “eyesore,” earlier this month.&nbsp;

Israeli strikes in Syria on Monday killed seven people, including pro-Iran fighters, a war monitor said, in the latest such attack in the country against groups loyal to Tehran.

Israeli strikes in Syria on Monday killed seven people, including pro-Iran fighters, a war monitor said, in the latest such attack in the country against groups loyal to Tehran. In other news, the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) parliamentary group has agreed to submit an impeachment motion against President Mohamed Muizzu in light of the recent diplomatic tussle with ally nations such as India. Click on the headlines to read more. Middle East: Israeli strikes in Syria kill 7, including pro-Iran fighters Israeli strikes in Syria on Monday killed seven people, including pro-Iran fighters, a war monitor said, in the latest such attack in the country against groups loyal to Tehran. "Israeli strikes targeted a base belonging to Hezbollah and Iran's Revolutionary Guards, killing seven people" including pro-Iran fighters, said Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Maldives: Opposition to submit impeachment motion against Prez Muizzu The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) parliamentary group has agreed to submit an impeachment motion against President Mohamed Muizzu in light of the recent diplomatic tussle with ally nations such as India. French farmers block highways amid protests against government, thousands of police deployed French farmers on Monday (Jan 29) started blocking several motorways around Paris, demanding better working conditions, higher pay and less red tape. The massive protests forced the authorities to deploy thousands of police to guard a fresh food market and airports in the French capital. The farmers say that these problematic policies undermine their ability to compete with other countries. Indian Navy frees Iranian fishing boat hijacked off Somalia Indian Navy said on Monday (Jan 29) that it freed an Iranian fishing vessel which was hijacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia. This happened after the latest attack against shipping in the Indian Ocean. Explained: Pausing funding for UNRWA may be violating genocide convention Over a dozen countries, including the United States and more recently Japan and Austria, have suspended funds for the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees after Israel accused some of its employees of participating in the October 7 attack by Hamas. However, a UN expert said that these countries may be violating the World Court order to provide effective aid in Gaza. US sets visa record in India, processes 1.4 million applications in 2023 The United States issued a record 1.4 million visas for Indians in the year 2023, which is the highest so far, slashing the visitor visa appointment wait time by 75 per cent. The US Embassy and Consulates in India released a statement saying that now Indians represent one out of every 10 US visa applicants around the globe. "In 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-smashing 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes was unprecedented, with a 60 per cent increase in applications compared to 2022. Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world," the statement read. Indian student pens heartbreaking note for parents before dying by suicide A teenage girl preparing for the competitive Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) died by suicide on Monday (Jan 29) in India's Kota city. She left behind a note to her parents saying she was sorry, calling herself a “loser”. “Mummy, papa I can't do JEE. So I suicide,” the note scribbled in English said, according to police. “I am a loser. I am worst daughter. Sorry mummy papa. Yahi last option he (this is the last option),” the note found in Niharika Singh's room added. Skating: Russia’s Kamila Valieva handed four-year ban for doping In a huge blow to Russian skater Kamila Valieva, she has received a four-year doping suspension. The development was confirmed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on Monday (Jan 29) after the skater failed a doping test ahead of the 2022 Winter Olympics. With this, the move has effectively stripped the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) of its gold medal in the team event from the Beijing Olympics two years back. Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, leaves hospital after abdominal surgery Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, has left hospital following her abdominal surgery. On Monday, the Kensington Palace office said that Kate is making "good progress" at home. The 42-year-old princess was being treated at a private London hospital after her surgery which took place on January 17. After almost two weeks, Kate is back to her home at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor. Explained | Kim Jong Un reportedly tears down father’s reunification monument. Why is it a big deal? North Korea has reportedly demolished a major monument which symbolised the goal of reconciliation with South Korea following the orders of their leader Kim Jong Un who called the massive structure that his father constructed in the capital city Pyongyang, an “eyesore,” earlier this month.

Top 10 world news: Israeli strikes in Syria kill 7; French farmers block highways amid protests, and more

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held a roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan, ahead of India's 75th Republic Day. Macron, who is on a two-day official visit to India, will be the chief guest at the 75th Republic Day celebrations to be held in New Delhi tomorrow. In other news, India on Thursday (Jan 25) slammed claims&nbsp;made by a Pakistani official of India&nbsp;having a role in the&nbsp;recent deaths of Pakistani citizens in the country as "anti-India propaganda".

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ahead-of-republic-day-pm-modi-and-french-president-macron-hold-roadshow-in-jaipur-683610">India: Ahead of Republic Day, PM Modi and French Prez Macron hold roadshow</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/25/407968-untitled-design-2024-01-25t200512123.png?imwidth=500" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held a roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan, ahead of India's 75th Republic Day. During the roadshow, citizens in large numbers gathered on the streets of the pink city to welcome Macron and Modi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-strongly-reacts-to-pakistans-assassinations-comment-says-peddling-false-propaganda-683638">India slams Pakistan of 'false propaganda' over killing of two terrorists</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/25/407982-untitled-design-2024-01-25t205540427.png?imwidth=500" />

Responding to media questions regarding the Pakistan Foreign Ministry's remarks, MEA Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have seen media reports regarding certain remarks by Pakistan Foreign Secretary. It is Pakistan’s latest attempt at peddling false and malicious anti-India propaganda. As the world knows, Pakistan has long been the epicentre of terrorism, organised crime, and illegal transnational activities.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-accuses-russia-of-playing-with-lives-in-deadly-plane-crash-calls-for-international-inquiry-683529">Russia 'played with lives of Ukrainian prisoners' in plane crash: Zelensky</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/25/407902-untitled-design-2024-01-25t163306145.png?imwidth=500" />

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of "playing with the lives of Ukrainian prisoners" after all 65 Ukrainian inmates&nbsp;were killed in a deadly plane crash in western Russia.&nbsp;President Zelensky further called for an international inquiry into the crash which took place in the Belgorod region near Ukraine's border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-daria-trepova-receives-27-year-prison-term-for-killing-pro-war-blogger-683584">Daria Trepova gets 27 jail years for killing pro-war blogger in bombing</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/04/343025-untitled-design-2023-04-04t102509072.png?imwidth=500" />

A St. Petersburg court has pronounced a 27-year prison sentence for Daria Trepova, the 26-year-old woman found guilty of assassinating ultranationalist pro-war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky in April. The incident unfolded during an event at a St. Petersburg café where Tatarsky was speaking.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-jails-ultra-nationalist-putin-critic-igor-girkin-for-four-years-683544">Russia jails ultra-nationalist Putin critic Igor Girkin for four years over 'extremism' charges</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/25/407923-succession-2024-01-25t170404062.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Prominent Russian nationalist Igor Girkin was on Thursday (Jan 25) convicted by a Moscow court for inciting extremism and jailed for four years. Girkin, who denied the charges, has strongly condemned President Vladimir Putin for not effectively pursuing the war against Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-parliamentarian-bae-hyun-jin-attacked-rushed-to-hospital-683497">South Korean woman parliamentarian Bae Hyun-jin attacked, rushed to hospital</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/25/407885-untitled-design-2024-01-25t150019435.png?imwidth=500" />

A member of parliament from the ruling People Power Party in South Korea, Bae Hyun-jin, was 'attacked' on a street in Seoul's Gangnam district. Reports indicated that she was struck in the head with an object by an unidentified assailant, resulting in her hospitalisation for injuries and bleeding. The attacker was swiftly arrested at the scene, media reports said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-the-mother-of-democracy-says-president-droupadi-murmu-in-republic-day-eve-address-683607">President Murmu addresses country on eve of Republic Day, hails Ram Temple consecration ceremony</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/25/407959-succession-2024-01-25t192829287.jpg?imwidth=500" />

India's President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday (Jan 25) addressed the nation on the eve of the country's 75th Republic Day and hailed the Ram temple consecration ceremony held in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya on Monday (Jan 22).&nbsp;Calling the event&nbsp;"landmark" in India’s continued re-discovery of its civilisational heritage, she said, "The construction of the temple commenced after the due judicial process and the decision of the highest court of the land. Now it stands as a grand edifice, giving a befitting expression not only of people's faith but also as a testament to people's enormous trust in the judicial process."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/investigators-find-flight-recorders-present-inside-russian-plane-crash-report-683578">Investigators find flight recorders present inside Russian plane crash: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/25/407941-untitled-design-2024-01-25t175854953.png?imwidth=500" />

The investigators, who were carrying out a search operation at the site where a Russian military transport plane crashed, have found the flight recorders of the plane, as per media reports.&nbsp;The flight recorders were found a day after Moscow held Kyiv guilty of shooting down the aircraft which was carrying 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for an international investigation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pat-cummins-named-cricketer-of-the-year-for-2023-virat-kohli-earns-odi-player-of-the-year-accolade-683603">Pat Cummins named Cricketer of the Year for 2023, Virat Kohli earns ODI Player of the Year accolade</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/25/407957-pat-cummins-virat-kohli.png?imwidth=500" />

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the winners of the annual awards for 2023 as Australian skipper Pat Cummins received the top honour for Cricketer of the Year. Cummins, who led Australia to the ICC ODI World Cup and the World Test Championship (WTC) triumph, saw off challenges from close mates Travis Head and Virat Kohli. However, Virat’s consolation came in the form of ICC ODI Player of the Year where he had a special year, helping India to the runners-up crown in the World Cup held in his own backyard.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/padma-awards-2024-declared-on-indian-republic-day-eve-full-list-of-awardees-683648">Padma Awards 2024 declared on Indian Republic Day Eve: Full list of awardees</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/11/39560-padma%25252520awards-20180125025531.jpg?imwidth=500" />

Padma Awards have been declared in India on the eve of Republic Day 2024. These&nbsp;are one of the highest civilian awards in India. Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award while the Padma Awards are second in the hierarchy of honours that are conferred on individuals for their exceptional work in various fields. There are three categories of Padma Awards: Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan (in ascending order).

&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held a roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan, ahead of India's 75th Republic Day. Macron, who is on a two-day official visit to India, will be the chief guest at the 75th Republic Day celebrations to be held in New Delhi tomorrow.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held a roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan, ahead of India's 75th Republic Day. Macron, who is on a two-day official visit to India, will be the chief guest at the 75th Republic Day celebrations to be held in New Delhi tomorrow. In other news, India on Thursday (Jan 25) slammed claims made by a Pakistani official of India having a role in the recent deaths of Pakistani citizens in the country as "anti-India propaganda". Click on the headlines to read more. India: Ahead of Republic Day, PM Modi and French Prez Macron hold roadshow Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held a roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan, ahead of India's 75th Republic Day. During the roadshow, citizens in large numbers gathered on the streets of the pink city to welcome Macron and Modi. India slams Pakistan of 'false propaganda' over killing of two terrorists Responding to media questions regarding the Pakistan Foreign Ministry's remarks, MEA Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have seen media reports regarding certain remarks by Pakistan Foreign Secretary. It is Pakistan’s latest attempt at peddling false and malicious anti-India propaganda. As the world knows, Pakistan has long been the epicentre of terrorism, organised crime, and illegal transnational activities.” Russia 'played with lives of Ukrainian prisoners' in plane crash: Zelensky Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of "playing with the lives of Ukrainian prisoners" after all 65 Ukrainian inmates were killed in a deadly plane crash in western Russia. President Zelensky further called for an international inquiry into the crash which took place in the Belgorod region near Ukraine's border. Daria Trepova gets 27 jail years for killing pro-war blogger in bombing A St. Petersburg court has pronounced a 27-year prison sentence for Daria Trepova, the 26-year-old woman found guilty of assassinating ultranationalist pro-war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky in April. The incident unfolded during an event at a St. Petersburg café where Tatarsky was speaking. Russia jails ultra-nationalist Putin critic Igor Girkin for four years over 'extremism' charges Prominent Russian nationalist Igor Girkin was on Thursday (Jan 25) convicted by a Moscow court for inciting extremism and jailed for four years. Girkin, who denied the charges, has strongly condemned President Vladimir Putin for not effectively pursuing the war against Ukraine. South Korean woman parliamentarian Bae Hyun-jin attacked, rushed to hospital A member of parliament from the ruling People Power Party in South Korea, Bae Hyun-jin, was 'attacked' on a street in Seoul's Gangnam district. Reports indicated that she was struck in the head with an object by an unidentified assailant, resulting in her hospitalisation for injuries and bleeding. The attacker was swiftly arrested at the scene, media reports said. President Murmu addresses country on eve of Republic Day, hails Ram Temple consecration ceremony India's President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday (Jan 25) addressed the nation on the eve of the country's 75th Republic Day and hailed the Ram temple consecration ceremony held in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya on Monday (Jan 22). Calling the event "landmark" in India’s continued re-discovery of its civilisational heritage, she said, "The construction of the temple commenced after the due judicial process and the decision of the highest court of the land. Now it stands as a grand edifice, giving a befitting expression not only of people's faith but also as a testament to people's enormous trust in the judicial process." Investigators find flight recorders present inside Russian plane crash: Report The investigators, who were carrying out a search operation at the site where a Russian military transport plane crashed, have found the flight recorders of the plane, as per media reports. The flight recorders were found a day after Moscow held Kyiv guilty of shooting down the aircraft which was carrying 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for an international investigation. Pat Cummins named Cricketer of the Year for 2023, Virat Kohli earns ODI Player of the Year accolade The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the winners of the annual awards for 2023 as Australian skipper Pat Cummins received the top honour for Cricketer of the Year. Cummins, who led Australia to the ICC ODI World Cup and the World Test Championship (WTC) triumph, saw off challenges from close mates Travis Head and Virat Kohli. However, Virat’s consolation came in the form of ICC ODI Player of the Year where he had a special year, helping India to the runners-up crown in the World Cup held in his own backyard. Padma Awards 2024 declared on Indian Republic Day Eve: Full list of awardees Padma Awards have been declared in India on the eve of Republic Day 2024. These are one of the highest civilian awards in India. Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award while the Padma Awards are second in the hierarchy of honours that are conferred on individuals for their exceptional work in various fields. There are three categories of Padma Awards: Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan (in ascending order).

Top 10 news: PM Modi, French Prez Macron hold roadshow; Ukraine calls for inquiry into plane crash, and more

The jihadist terrorist group Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the twin blasts in Iran near the grave of a slain senior Iranian commander during his death anniversary.

Iraq meanwhile blamed the US-led anti-jihadist coalition for a drone strike that killed a commander.

&nbsp;In other news, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak indicated on Thursday (Jan 4) that the nation will likely go to the polls in the last six months of 2024.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-twin-blasts-islamic-state-jihadist-group-claims-responsibility-for-bombings-676650">Iran blasts: Islamic State jihadist group claims responsibility for bombings</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/04/403684-twin-iran-blasts.png?imwidth=1920" />

The Islamic State jihadist group on Thursday claimed responsibility for twin bombings that killed 84 people&nbsp;in Iran.&nbsp;In a statement on Telegram, the group said two of its members "activated their explosives vests" at a gathering near the grave&nbsp;in the southern city of Kerman of slain Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-accuses-us-led-coalition-of-baghdad-strike-calls-it-blatant-aggression-676570">Iraq accuses US-led coalition of Baghdad strike, calls it 'blatant aggression'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/04/403630-succession-2024-01-04t174719341.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Iraq's pro-Iran Hashed force on Thursday (Jan 4) condemned the United States for launching a drone strike that killed a military commander of the ex-paramilitary force.&nbsp;"A drone targeted the logistical support headquarters of Hashed al-Shaabi," mainly pro-Iranian former paramilitary units integrated into the Iraqi armed forces, said the security official.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-indicates-britain-will-likely-go-to-polls-in-last-six-months-of-2024-676621">Britain likely go to polls in last six months of 2024, Rishi Sunak indicates</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/19/352760-rishi-sunak-2.png?imwidth=3840" />

Rishi Sunak's announcement came amid mounting speculations about the date of the general election.&nbsp;The prime minister has ruled out a spring election. He has until the end of January 2025 to call a much-anticipated general election. He said that his "working assumption" was it would take place in the second half of the year.&nbsp;During his visit to Mansfield, central England, Sunal said: "My working assumption is we'll have a general election in the second half of this year."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-earthquake-sent-ripple-effect-across-world-got-recorded-within-minutes-676564">Japan earthquake sent ripple effect across world, got recorded in minutes</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/04/403633-untitled-design-2024-01-04t175126134.png?imwidth=640" />

Japan's massive earthquake which shook the country on Monday at 4:10 pm local time and had a magnitude of 7.5 was immediately registered on the seismometers present in the near vicinity. It was also recorded within minutes across the world, which included North Carolina, as per a media report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/businesses-tied-to-donald-trump-got-78-million-in-foreign-payments-when-he-was-us-president-report-676640">Businesses tied to Donald Trump got $7.8 million in foreign payments when he was US president: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/04/403679-untitled-design-2024-01-04t220114223.png?imwidth=3840" />

Businesses tied to former United States president Donald Trump got at least $7.8 million in foreign payments from 20 countries when he was serving as president, the news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (Jan 4) Democratic congressional investigators.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-cape-town-test-scripts-world-record-after-indias-inspiring-win-676574">SA vs Ind: Cape Town Test scripts WORLD RECORD after India's inspiring win</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/04/403639-mixcollage-04-jan-2024-06-05-pm-7397.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

On Thursday (Jan 4), India ended the second and final Test versus South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, with an impressive seven-wicket win. This marked their first-ever Test win&nbsp;at the venue as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. ended the two-match series at 1-1. Thus, India ended with a drawn Test series&nbsp;in South Africa for only the second time -- after 2010/11 tour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/britney-spears-says-she-would-never-return-to-music-industry-676626">Britney Spears says she would 'never return to music industry'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/22/297975-framing-britney-spears.PNG?imwidth=640" />

Britney Spears has no plans to return to music. After the 13-year-old conservatorship ended, the one thing that Spears' millions of fans had been waiting for was when she would release her new music.&nbsp;Rumours were rife that the singer is currently working on her next album, but quashing all of them, the singer has confirmed that she will never return to the music industry.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-active-shooter-situation-in-perry-high-school-in-iowa-676625">US: Active shooter situation in Perry High School in Iowa</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/04/403671-perry-high-school-iowa.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Police in the United States have confirmed that an Iowa school is currently in the midst of an active shooter situation. The incident is unfolding on the very first day at the Perry High School after winter break.&nbsp;As per reports in the US media, first reports of the shooting were received around 7:40 am local time. NBC News has reported that most of the students have been evacuated but more details are awaited.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-source-says-local-chief-among-four-killed-in-south-lebanon-676604">Hezbollah source says local chief among four killed in south Lebanon</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/04/403648-israel-soldiers.png?imwidth=3840" />

Hezbollah said on Thursday (Jan 5) that a local leader was among four fighters&nbsp;killed overnight in southern Lebanon, in&nbsp;Israeli strikes on the border town of Naqura.&nbsp;The news agency AFP reported that a source close to the militant group said that the deaths included a local Hezbollah leader.&nbsp;This comes after a strike on Beirut this week&nbsp;killed a senior Hamas leader, which further raised tensions in the West Asia region due to the war in the Gaza Strip.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-opposition-leader-lee-jae-myung-recovering-well-after-he-was-stabbed-676535">South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung recovering well after being stabbed</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/04/403613-untitled-design-2024-01-04t162705341.png?imwidth=3840" />

South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, who was stabbed in the neck earlier this week, is recovering well but needs close monitoring to avoid complications, a doctor from the Seoul National University Hospital said on Thursday (Jan 4), as reported by news agency&nbsp;AFP. Addressing a press conference, Dr Min Seung-kee said that Lee, 59, suffered a 1.4-centimetre pierced wound that cut through his muscle. &nbsp;

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The jihadist terrorist group Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the twin blasts in Iran near the grave of a slain senior Iranian commander during his death anniversary.

The jihadist terrorist group Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the twin blasts in Iran near the grave of a slain senior Iranian commander during his death anniversary. Iraq meanwhile blamed the US-led anti-jihadist coalition for a drone strike that killed a commander. In other news, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak indicated on Thursday (Jan 4) that the nation will likely go to the polls in the last six months of 2024. Click on the headlines to read more. Iran blasts: Islamic State jihadist group claims responsibility for bombings The Islamic State jihadist group on Thursday claimed responsibility for twin bombings that killed 84 people in Iran. In a statement on Telegram, the group said two of its members "activated their explosives vests" at a gathering near the grave in the southern city of Kerman of slain Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani. Iraq accuses US-led coalition of Baghdad strike, calls it 'blatant aggression' Iraq's pro-Iran Hashed force on Thursday (Jan 4) condemned the United States for launching a drone strike that killed a military commander of the ex-paramilitary force. "A drone targeted the logistical support headquarters of Hashed al-Shaabi," mainly pro-Iranian former paramilitary units integrated into the Iraqi armed forces, said the security official. Britain likely go to polls in last six months of 2024, Rishi Sunak indicates Rishi Sunak's announcement came amid mounting speculations about the date of the general election. The prime minister has ruled out a spring election. He has until the end of January 2025 to call a much-anticipated general election. He said that his "working assumption" was it would take place in the second half of the year. During his visit to Mansfield, central England, Sunal said: "My working assumption is we'll have a general election in the second half of this year." Japan earthquake sent ripple effect across world, got recorded in minutes Japan's massive earthquake which shook the country on Monday at 4:10 pm local time and had a magnitude of 7.5 was immediately registered on the seismometers present in the near vicinity. It was also recorded within minutes across the world, which included North Carolina, as per a media report. Businesses tied to Donald Trump got $7.8 million in foreign payments when he was US president: Report Businesses tied to former United States president Donald Trump got at least $7.8 million in foreign payments from 20 countries when he was serving as president, the news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (Jan 4) Democratic congressional investigators. SA vs Ind: Cape Town Test scripts WORLD RECORD after India's inspiring win On Thursday (Jan 4), India ended the second and final Test versus South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, with an impressive seven-wicket win. This marked their first-ever Test win at the venue as Rohit Sharma & Co. ended the two-match series at 1-1. Thus, India ended with a drawn Test series in South Africa for only the second time -- after 2010/11 tour. Britney Spears says she would 'never return to music industry' Britney Spears has no plans to return to music. After the 13-year-old conservatorship ended, the one thing that Spears' millions of fans had been waiting for was when she would release her new music. Rumours were rife that the singer is currently working on her next album, but quashing all of them, the singer has confirmed that she will never return to the music industry. US: Active shooter situation in Perry High School in Iowa Police in the United States have confirmed that an Iowa school is currently in the midst of an active shooter situation. The incident is unfolding on the very first day at the Perry High School after winter break. As per reports in the US media, first reports of the shooting were received around 7:40 am local time. NBC News has reported that most of the students have been evacuated but more details are awaited. Hezbollah source says local chief among four killed in south Lebanon Hezbollah said on Thursday (Jan 5) that a local leader was among four fighters killed overnight in southern Lebanon, in Israeli strikes on the border town of Naqura. The news agency AFP reported that a source close to the militant group said that the deaths included a local Hezbollah leader. This comes after a strike on Beirut this week killed a senior Hamas leader, which further raised tensions in the West Asia region due to the war in the Gaza Strip. South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung recovering well after being stabbed South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, who was stabbed in the neck earlier this week, is recovering well but needs close monitoring to avoid complications, a doctor from the Seoul National University Hospital said on Thursday (Jan 4), as reported by news agency AFP. Addressing a press conference, Dr Min Seung-kee said that Lee, 59, suffered a 1.4-centimetre pierced wound that cut through his muscle.

Top 10 news: Islamic State jihadist group claims Iran bombings, multiple injured in US school shooting, & more

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) during his address to the nation marking the new year said that "the motherland will surely be reunified". "Compatriots on both sides of the (Taiwan) Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose to share in the glory of national rejuvenation," he said. Previously, Xi has said that China would never rule out the move to exert force in order to bring Taiwan under its control.

In other news,&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;said Russia would "never back down" as he addressed Russian citizens with his traditional New Year's speech from Kremlin.

Click here to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-we-will-never-back-down-in-new-years-eve-address-675304">Putin says 'we will never back down' in New Year's Eve address</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/07/397825-vladimir-putin-2.png?imwidth=3840" />

President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;said Russia would "never back down" as he addressed Russian citizens with his traditional New Year's speech from Kremlin. Residents of Kamchatka and Chukotka,&nbsp;where the New Year arrives early as the time difference with Moscow is plus 9 hours were the first to see Putin make the address.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-surely-be-reunified-says-president-xi-jinping-in-new-years-speech-675342">China 'will surely be reunified', says President Xi Jinping in New Year's speech</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/31/402824-succession-2023-12-31t215542394.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) said that China would "surely be reunified" during his address to the nation marking the new year, as per state media reports. "All Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose and share in the glory of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," state news agency Xinhua said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-missiles-and-drone-strikes-on-kharkiv-after-belgorod-terrorist-attack-675323">Russia launches missiles and drone strikes on Kharkiv after Belgorod attack</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/31/402809-russia-ukraine-war-2.png?imwidth=3840" />

Russia on Sunday (Dec 31) claimed that it attacked military facilities in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv overnight, including a hotel housing military commanders and "foreign mercenaries", calling it retaliation for Ukraine's strikes on Belgorod the previous day.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maersk-says-suspending-vessels-passage-through-red-sea-strait-for-48-hours-675268">Maersk suspends vessels' passage through Red Sea strait for 48 hours</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/31/402787-succession-2023-12-31t154000079.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Maersk, one of the world's largest shipping companies, on Sunday (Dec 31) said that it was suspending the passage of its vessels through a significant Red Sea strait for 48 hours after Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels attacked one of its merchant ships.&nbsp;The Maersk Hangzhou container ship, which was heading towards Port Suez in Egypt from Singapore, reported being hit by a missile while transiting the Bab al-Mandab Strait.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-us-destroyer-receives-distress-call-shoots-down-two-anti-ship-missiles-675140">LIVE: Netanyahu slams South Africa amid ICJ case for alleged 'genocidal' acts</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/31/402799-untitled-design-2023-12-31t170920593.png?imwidth=3840" />

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed South Africa for launching a case against the former's alleged "genocidal" acts in Gaza at the International Case of Justice (ICJ). Netanyahu claimed that Israel displayed "morality" in the war, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

"We will continue our defensive war, the justice and morality of which is without peer," Netanyahu told a cabinet meeting in Tel Aviv.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-to-retire-lionel-messis-famous-number-10-jersey-post-his-retirement-official-675312">Argentina to retire Lionel Messi’s famous Number 10 jersey post his retirement</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/31/402806-untitled-design-2023-12-31t183907846.png?imwidth=3840" />

Years after attempting to pay homage to the late Diego Maradona by trying to retire his famous number 10 jersey, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has again raised its voice to do so for the modern-day great and World Cup winner Lionel Messi. Much like the legendary Maradona - still regarded as the greatest of his time, Messi – perhaps the most decorated footballer in history, also wears the same number jersey.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-school-college-mourn-death-of-indian-origin-student-arianna-in-murder-suicide-case-675217">US: Teachers mourn death of Indian-origin teen, who was 'brilliant student, amazing singer'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/31/402751-arianna-kamal-teena-kama-rakesh-kamal-658f3753232cf.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Vermont's Middlebury College was mourning the death of one of its students on Friday (Dec 29) as it released a grieving statement about “brilliant” Arianna Kamal. The 18-year-old student on Thursday (Dec 28) was found dead inside her house in a rich enclave outside Boston – one of the wealthiest in Massachusetts – along with her Indian-origin parents; Rakesh Kamal, 57; his wife, Teena.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-first-srinagars-ghanta-ghar-welcomes-2024-with-new-year-eve-celebrations-675345">In a first, Srinagar's Ghanta Ghar welcomes 2024 with New Year eve celebrations</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/31/402825-untitled-design-2023-12-31t220107193.png?imwidth=3840" />

For the first time in the history of Jammu&nbsp;and Kashmir, New Year celebrations were held in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk area. The Department of Tourism, Jammu and Kashmir had organised a musical event at Srinagar’s Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower area). Hundreds of people gathered at the clock tower to participate in the New Year celebrations.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-indian-government-declares-tehreek-e-hurriyat-unlawful-association-under-uapa-675332">Jammu and Kashmir: Indian government declares Tehreek-e-Hurriyat 'unlawful association' under UAPA</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/26/347884-clipboard-3-1176783-1672488028.jpg?imwidth=640" />

The Indian government on Sunday (Dec 31) said that Tehreek-e-Hurriyat (TeH) Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) has been declared as an 'Unlawful Association' under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) 1967 for the next five years.&nbsp;The ban has been implemented for "fomenting terrorism and anti-India propaganda" in the union territory.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/felix-tshisekedi-dr-congos-leader-for-another-five-years-675340">Felix&nbsp;Tshisekedi: DR Congo's leader for another five years</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/31/402823-felix-tshisekedi.png?imwidth=3840" />

DR Congo's President&nbsp;Felix&nbsp;Tshisekedi has won a second term in office after elections described as chaotic, and is now set to cement his authority in the impoverished central African nation.&nbsp;In pugnacious rallies ahead of the December 20 vote, the 60-year-old, sporting white shirts and baseball caps, urged voters to let him "consolidate his gains," claiming progress on development and security.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) during his address to the nation marking the new year said that "the motherland will surely be reunified". "Compatriots on both sides of the (Taiwan) Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose to share in the glory of national rejuvenation," he said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) during his address to the nation marking the new year said that "the motherland will surely be reunified". "Compatriots on both sides of the (Taiwan) Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose to share in the glory of national rejuvenation," he said. Previously, Xi has said that China would never rule out the move to exert force in order to bring Taiwan under its control. In other news, President Vladimir Putin said Russia would "never back down" as he addressed Russian citizens with his traditional New Year's speech from Kremlin. Click here to read more: Putin says 'we will never back down' in New Year's Eve address President Vladimir Putin said Russia would "never back down" as he addressed Russian citizens with his traditional New Year's speech from Kremlin. Residents of Kamchatka and Chukotka, where the New Year arrives early as the time difference with Moscow is plus 9 hours were the first to see Putin make the address. China 'will surely be reunified', says President Xi Jinping in New Year's speech Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) said that China would "surely be reunified" during his address to the nation marking the new year, as per state media reports. "All Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose and share in the glory of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," state news agency Xinhua said. Russia launches missiles and drone strikes on Kharkiv after Belgorod attack Russia on Sunday (Dec 31) claimed that it attacked military facilities in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv overnight, including a hotel housing military commanders and "foreign mercenaries", calling it retaliation for Ukraine's strikes on Belgorod the previous day. Maersk suspends vessels' passage through Red Sea strait for 48 hours Maersk, one of the world's largest shipping companies, on Sunday (Dec 31) said that it was suspending the passage of its vessels through a significant Red Sea strait for 48 hours after Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels attacked one of its merchant ships. The Maersk Hangzhou container ship, which was heading towards Port Suez in Egypt from Singapore, reported being hit by a missile while transiting the Bab al-Mandab Strait. LIVE: Netanyahu slams South Africa amid ICJ case for alleged 'genocidal' acts Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed South Africa for launching a case against the former's alleged "genocidal" acts in Gaza at the International Case of Justice (ICJ). Netanyahu claimed that Israel displayed "morality" in the war, news agency AFP reported. "We will continue our defensive war, the justice and morality of which is without peer," Netanyahu told a cabinet meeting in Tel Aviv. Argentina to retire Lionel Messi’s famous Number 10 jersey post his retirement Years after attempting to pay homage to the late Diego Maradona by trying to retire his famous number 10 jersey, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has again raised its voice to do so for the modern-day great and World Cup winner Lionel Messi. Much like the legendary Maradona - still regarded as the greatest of his time, Messi – perhaps the most decorated footballer in history, also wears the same number jersey. US: Teachers mourn death of Indian-origin teen, who was 'brilliant student, amazing singer' Vermont's Middlebury College was mourning the death of one of its students on Friday (Dec 29) as it released a grieving statement about “brilliant” Arianna Kamal. The 18-year-old student on Thursday (Dec 28) was found dead inside her house in a rich enclave outside Boston – one of the wealthiest in Massachusetts – along with her Indian-origin parents; Rakesh Kamal, 57; his wife, Teena. In a first, Srinagar's Ghanta Ghar welcomes 2024 with New Year eve celebrations For the first time in the history of Jammu and Kashmir, New Year celebrations were held in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk area. The Department of Tourism, Jammu and Kashmir had organised a musical event at Srinagar’s Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower area). Hundreds of people gathered at the clock tower to participate in the New Year celebrations. Jammu and Kashmir: Indian government declares Tehreek-e-Hurriyat 'unlawful association' under UAPA The Indian government on Sunday (Dec 31) said that Tehreek-e-Hurriyat (TeH) Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has been declared as an 'Unlawful Association' under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) 1967 for the next five years. The ban has been implemented for "fomenting terrorism and anti-India propaganda" in the union territory. Felix Tshisekedi: DR Congo's leader for another five years DR Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi has won a second term in office after elections described as chaotic, and is now set to cement his authority in the impoverished central African nation. In pugnacious rallies ahead of the December 20 vote, the 60-year-old, sporting white shirts and baseball caps, urged voters to let him "consolidate his gains," claiming progress on development and security.

Top 10 news: Russia launches drone strikes on Kharkiv, Xi hails China's economy in New Year speech, & more

A missile strike damaged a merchant ship off India's coast on Saturday (Dec 23) morning. The attack occurred 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval and resulted in a substantial explosion, causing significant damage to the vessel. However, no casualties were reported. The United Kingdom's Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) had first issued a public alert of the incident. In another news, The team of Navalny said that the prominent politician had been missing for 17 days and his current whereabouts remain unknown. “Today Alexey was supposed to have two trials. He was again not brought to the meetings. Navalny has never been hidden for so long,” said Navalny’s team, in a Telegram post.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drone-strike-hits-ship-off-indias-coast-says-report-672821">Missile strike hits merchant ship off India's coast; crew includes 21 Indians</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401166-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=3840" />

A missile strike damaged a merchant ship off India's coast on Saturday (Dec 23) morning. The attack occurred 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval and resulted in a&nbsp;substantial explosion, causing significant damage to the vessel.&nbsp;However, no casualties were reported.&nbsp;The United Kingdom's Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) had&nbsp;first issued a public alert of the incident.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-former-minister-says-no-coincidence-after-putins-rival-navalny-remains-absent-from-court-hearings-672909">Russia’s former minister says ‘no coincidence’ as Navalny remains missing</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401195-untitled-design-2023-12-23t201917612.png?imwidth=3840" />

The mystery around the disappearance of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny continues to deepen after he remained absent from two scheduled court hearings which were conducted through video link on Friday (Dec 22), as per a statement from his team.&nbsp;The team of Navalny said that the prominent politician had been missing for 17 days and his current whereabouts remain unknown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/czech-president-attends-mass-for-victims-of-prague-attack-as-country-holds-national-mourning-672861">Prague shooting: Czech president attends mass for victims as nation mourns</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401164-untitled-design-2023-12-23t172122277.png?imwidth=640" />

Czech Republic President Petr Pavel attended a mass on Saturday (Dec 23) to remember the victims of Prague shooting on Thursday (Dec 21) which shook the entire nation. A day of national mourning is being observed by the entire country for those who lost their lives in the mass shooting that took place at a university in Prague. The bells tolled across the country and flags were flown at half-mast on the official buildings and a minute's silence was observed at midday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-parties-commit-to-new-ceasefire-agree-to-un-led-peace-process-672932">Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401211-succession-2023-12-23t212249798.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-pile-on-misery-for-woeful-manchester-united-with-2-0-win-672921">Premier League: West Ham pile on misery for woeful Man Utd with 2-0 win</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401203-1-2023-12-23t203926984.png?imwidth=640" />

Manchester United crashed to a dismal 2-0 defeat at West Ham as goals from Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus piled renewed pressure on under-fire boss Erik ten Hag on Saturday.&nbsp;Ten Hag's side were blown away by West Ham's late strikes at the London Stadium, condemning them to an eighth Premier League loss already this season.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-bars-anti-war-candidate-yekaterina-duntsova-from-presidential-ballot-672878">Russia bars anti-war candidate Yekaterina Duntsova from presidential ballot</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401175-succession-2023-12-23t180047001.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Russia on Saturday (Dec 23) rejected an application by presidential hopeful Yekaterina Duntsova calling for peace. The Central Electoral Commission, citing mistakes in the documents submitted by Duntsova, cancelled the plea, reported Russian television.&nbsp;The commission's chief, Ella Pamfilova, released a statement saying that the members rejected Duntsova's bid to stand in the elections to be held next year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brings-rolf-russias-largest-car-dealership-owned-by-cyprus-based-firm-under-state-management-672869">Putin brings Rolf, Russia’s largest car dealership owned by Cyprus-based firm, under state management</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401170-untitled-design-2023-12-23t175007649.png?imwidth=1920" />

Against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war and Western sanctions, President Vladimir Putin has taken control of Rolf, Russia's largest car dealership owned by a Cyprus-based firm, placing it under temporary state management.&nbsp;The Kremlin insisted that the move is driven by commercial considerations, citing the need to comply with Russian legislation and address the challenging international economic situation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/major-fire-breaks-out-at-hospital-in-indias-hyderabad-672936">Major fire breaks out at hospital in India's Hyderabad</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401214-untitled-design-5.png?imwidth=640" />

A major fire broke out at Ankura Hospital in Hyderabad on Saturday (Dec 23) evening. According to media reports, the fire was reported at around 5.30 pm and there were no casualties. A report by Telangana Today said that the hospital management informed the police about the fire who then alerted the fire department. Three fire tenders reached the spot and the fire was brought under control, the report added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-jaishankar-rakes-up-extremism-after-hate-crime-at-hindu-temple-in-us-672834">‘Extremists should not be given space’: India’s Jaishankar reacts to vandalism at Hindu temple in US</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401162-untitled-design-2023-12-23t171445388.png?imwidth=640" />

In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-police-shoot-black-woman-after-she-dials-911-to-report-domestic-violence-672891">US: Police shoot black woman wielding knife after she dials 911 to report domestic violence</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401185-untitled-design-2023-12-23t190617064.png?imwidth=3840" />

A 27-year-old black woman, identified as&nbsp;Niani Finlayson, dialled the emergency helpline number 911 in Los Angeles, United States to report domestic violence on December 4. Responding to the distress call, the deputies of the Los Angeles County sheriff reached her house, however, the black woman was shot dead by the cops after a confrontation.

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A missile strike damaged a merchant ship off India's coast on Saturday (Dec 23) morning. The attack occurred 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval and resulted in a substantial explosion, causing significant damage to the vessel.

A missile strike damaged a merchant ship off India's coast on Saturday (Dec 23) morning. The attack occurred 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval and resulted in a substantial explosion, causing significant damage to the vessel. However, no casualties were reported. The United Kingdom's Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) had first issued a public alert of the incident. In another news, The team of Navalny said that the prominent politician had been missing for 17 days and his current whereabouts remain unknown. “Today Alexey was supposed to have two trials. He was again not brought to the meetings. Navalny has never been hidden for so long,” said Navalny’s team, in a Telegram post. Click on the headlines to read more. Missile strike hits merchant ship off India's coast; crew includes 21 Indians A missile strike damaged a merchant ship off India's coast on Saturday (Dec 23) morning. The attack occurred 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval and resulted in a substantial explosion, causing significant damage to the vessel. However, no casualties were reported. The United Kingdom's Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) had first issued a public alert of the incident. Russia’s former minister says ‘no coincidence’ as Navalny remains missing The mystery around the disappearance of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny continues to deepen after he remained absent from two scheduled court hearings which were conducted through video link on Friday (Dec 22), as per a statement from his team. The team of Navalny said that the prominent politician had been missing for 17 days and his current whereabouts remain unknown. Prague shooting: Czech president attends mass for victims as nation mourns Czech Republic President Petr Pavel attended a mass on Saturday (Dec 23) to remember the victims of Prague shooting on Thursday (Dec 21) which shook the entire nation. A day of national mourning is being observed by the entire country for those who lost their lives in the mass shooting that took place at a university in Prague. The bells tolled across the country and flags were flown at half-mast on the official buildings and a minute's silence was observed at midday. Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23). Premier League: West Ham pile on misery for woeful Man Utd with 2-0 win Manchester United crashed to a dismal 2-0 defeat at West Ham as goals from Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus piled renewed pressure on under-fire boss Erik ten Hag on Saturday. Ten Hag's side were blown away by West Ham's late strikes at the London Stadium, condemning them to an eighth Premier League loss already this season. Russia bars anti-war candidate Yekaterina Duntsova from presidential ballot Russia on Saturday (Dec 23) rejected an application by presidential hopeful Yekaterina Duntsova calling for peace. The Central Electoral Commission, citing mistakes in the documents submitted by Duntsova, cancelled the plea, reported Russian television. The commission's chief, Ella Pamfilova, released a statement saying that the members rejected Duntsova's bid to stand in the elections to be held next year. Putin brings Rolf, Russia’s largest car dealership owned by Cyprus-based firm, under state management Against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war and Western sanctions, President Vladimir Putin has taken control of Rolf, Russia's largest car dealership owned by a Cyprus-based firm, placing it under temporary state management. The Kremlin insisted that the move is driven by commercial considerations, citing the need to comply with Russian legislation and address the challenging international economic situation. Major fire breaks out at hospital in India's Hyderabad A major fire broke out at Ankura Hospital in Hyderabad on Saturday (Dec 23) evening. According to media reports, the fire was reported at around 5.30 pm and there were no casualties. A report by Telangana Today said that the hospital management informed the police about the fire who then alerted the fire department. Three fire tenders reached the spot and the fire was brought under control, the report added. ‘Extremists should not be given space’: India’s Jaishankar reacts to vandalism at Hindu temple in US In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23). US: Police shoot black woman wielding knife after she dials 911 to report domestic violence A 27-year-old black woman, identified as Niani Finlayson, dialled the emergency helpline number 911 in Los Angeles, United States to report domestic violence on December 4. Responding to the distress call, the deputies of the Los Angeles County sheriff reached her house, however, the black woman was shot dead by the cops after a confrontation.

Top 10 news: Yemen's warring parties commit to ceasefire, missile strike hits ship off India’s coast, & more

As we observe International Migrants Day on 18 December 2023, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the journeys, challenges, and contributions of millions of individuals who have chosen to make a new home in foreign lands for protection, education, healthcare, or work for economic welfare. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of recognising and respecting the rights of migrants, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating the richness that diversity brings to societies worldwide.

<h2>Who is an International Migrant?</h2>

The definition of an international migrant, according to the United Nations, includes any individual who has relocated to a different country of residence, irrespective of their legal status, the nature of their movement, or the motives driving their migration.

<h2>The Significance of International Migrants Day</h2>

International Migrants Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2000 to recognise the rights of migrants and promote awareness about the positive contributions they make to both their host and home countries. This day also highlights the need for safe and orderly migration and encourages dialogue on the challenges faced by migrants. 
&nbsp;

<h2> 
International Migrants Day Diversity</h2>

In 2023, the global community stands at a crossroads, facing numerous economic, political, and environmental challenges. As these challenges persist, the number of people seeking refuge or better opportunities in foreign lands continues to grow. International Migrants Day provides an opportunity to emphasise the importance of embracing diversity and recognising the strength that comes from the exchange of cultures, ideas, and perspectives. As of July 1, 2020, the estimated global count of international migrants reached 281 million, making up approximately 3.5 per cent&nbsp;of the world's population. This percentage has experienced a gradual rise, growing from 2.3 per cent&nbsp;in 1980 to 2.8 per cent&nbsp;in 2000.

&nbsp;

<h2>Resilience in the Face of Adversity</h2>

Migrants often embark on perilous journeys, leaving behind familiar surroundings in search of safety, economic stability, or a better future for their families. Their resilience and determination in the face of adversity inspire us all. On this day, we acknowledge the courage it takes to start anew, adapt to unfamiliar environments, and overcome the hurdles that migrants encounter on their paths to integration.&nbsp;

It is crucial to humanise the narrative surrounding migration, dispelling myths and stereotypes that perpetuate negative perceptions. International Migrants Day provides an opportunity to highlight the individual stories of migrants, showcasing their talents, skills, and contributions to the societies they join. By recognising the humanity of migrants, we can foster empathy and understanding, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate world.

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Protecting the Rights of Migrants</h2>

As we celebrate International Migrants Day, it is imperative to renew our commitment to protecting the rights of migrants. Governments, organisations, and individuals must work together to create policies and practices that ensure the fair and just treatment of migrants, regardless of their status. This includes access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, as well as safeguarding against discrimination and exploitation.

&nbsp; 
On this International Migrants Day, let us recommit ourselves to building societies that value and embrace diversity. By fostering an environment of inclusion and understanding, we contribute to a world where migrants are not only welcomed but celebrated for the unique perspectives and experiences they bring. Together, we can create a more interconnected and harmonious global community, recognising that our shared humanity transcends borders.

(With inputs from agencies)

As we observe International Migrants Day on 18 December 2023, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the journeys, challenges, and contributions of millions of individuals who have chosen to make a new home in foreign lands for protection, education, healthcare, or work for economic welfare.

As we observe International Migrants Day on 18 December 2023, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the journeys, challenges, and contributions of millions of individuals who have chosen to make a new home in foreign lands for protection, education, healthcare, or work for economic welfare. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of recognising and respecting the rights of migrants, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating the richness that diversity brings to societies worldwide. Who is an International Migrant? The definition of an international migrant, according to the United Nations, includes any individual who has relocated to a different country of residence, irrespective of their legal status, the nature of their movement, or the motives driving their migration. The Significance of International Migrants Day International Migrants Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2000 to recognise the rights of migrants and promote awareness about the positive contributions they make to both their host and home countries. This day also highlights the need for safe and orderly migration and encourages dialogue on the challenges faced by migrants. International Migrants Day Diversity In 2023, the global community stands at a crossroads, facing numerous economic, political, and environmental challenges. As these challenges persist, the number of people seeking refuge or better opportunities in foreign lands continues to grow. International Migrants Day provides an opportunity to emphasise the importance of embracing diversity and recognising the strength that comes from the exchange of cultures, ideas, and perspectives. As of July 1, 2020, the estimated global count of international migrants reached 281 million, making up approximately 3.5 per cent of the world's population. This percentage has experienced a gradual rise, growing from 2.3 per cent in 1980 to 2.8 per cent in 2000. Resilience in the Face of Adversity Migrants often embark on perilous journeys, leaving behind familiar surroundings in search of safety, economic stability, or a better future for their families. Their resilience and determination in the face of adversity inspire us all. On this day, we acknowledge the courage it takes to start anew, adapt to unfamiliar environments, and overcome the hurdles that migrants encounter on their paths to integration. It is crucial to humanise the narrative surrounding migration, dispelling myths and stereotypes that perpetuate negative perceptions. International Migrants Day provides an opportunity to highlight the individual stories of migrants, showcasing their talents, skills, and contributions to the societies they join. By recognising the humanity of migrants, we can foster empathy and understanding, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate world. Protecting the Rights of Migrants As we celebrate International Migrants Day, it is imperative to renew our commitment to protecting the rights of migrants. Governments, organisations, and individuals must work together to create policies and practices that ensure the fair and just treatment of migrants, regardless of their status. This includes access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, as well as safeguarding against discrimination and exploitation. On this International Migrants Day, let us recommit ourselves to building societies that value and embrace diversity. By fostering an environment of inclusion and understanding, we contribute to a world where migrants are not only welcomed but celebrated for the unique perspectives and experiences they bring. Together, we can create a more interconnected and harmonious global community, recognising that our shared humanity transcends borders. (With inputs from agencies)

International Migrants Day 2023: Celebrating the diversity and resilience of migrants

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). In other news, Russian President Vladimir Putin will seek re-election as an independent candidate in 2024, Russian news agencies reported on Saturday.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cardinal-becciu-sent-to-prison-for-55-years-in-historic-vatican-fraud-trial-670354">Cardinal Becciu sent to prison for 5.5 years in historic Vatican fraud trial</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399578-untitled-design-2023-12-16t211142982.png?imwidth=3840" />

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-israel-reopens-aid-crossing-into-gaza-670152">LIVE: Funeral held for hostage mistakenly killed by Israeli army</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399569-succession-2023-12-16t203821591.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

A hostage who was mistakenly killed by the Israeli military while being held hostage in Gaza by Islamist group Hamas was laid to rest at a funeral in southern Israel on Saturday (December 16). Around 300 people turned out to mourn Samer Fouad Al-Talalka, 25, a member of Israel's Bedouin Arab minority, in his hometown of Hura.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/independent-putin-is-seeking-russian-presidency-again-heres-what-it-means-670352">'Independent' Putin is seeking Russian presidency again. Here's what it means</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398196-untitled-design-2023-12-09t152419331.png?imwidth=3840" />

On Saturday, a group of over 700 politicians and figures from the sporting and cultural worlds met in Moscow and gave unanimous endorsement to Vladimir Putin as an independent candidate. Putin announced earlier this month that he will seek another six-year term in March next year in Russian presidential election.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-destroyer-shots-down-suspected-attack-drone-targeting-red-sea-shipping-670312">UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399553-succession-2023-12-16t182204949.jpg?imwidth=640" />

A British destroyer shot down a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea, defence minister Grant Shapps on Saturday (Dec 16) said in a statement, amid growing maritime tensions in the region.&nbsp;"Overnight, HMS Diamond shot down a suspected attack drone which was targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea. One Sea Viper missile was fired and successfully destroyed the target," Shapps said in a statement posted on X.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-security-breach-five-accused-reveal-their-plans-to-perform-self-immolation-670293">Parliament security breach: Five accused reveal their plan of self-immolation</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399537-untitled-design-2023-12-16t172331037.png?imwidth=640" />

The five people, who were arrested for the Parliament security breach on December 13, said that they were earlier considering options of self-immolation and distribution of pamphlets before they decided to jump from the visitors' gallery into the Lok Sabha with smoke canisters, said Delhi Police officials on Saturday (Dec 16).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-ai-giant-sensetime-founder-tang-xiaoou-dies-days-after-revenue-fabrication-row-670309">China: AI giant SenseTime founder Tang Xiao'ou dies days after revenue fabrication row</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399551-untitled-design-2023-12-16t181424383.png?imwidth=3840" />

China's leading artificial intelligence firm SenseTime's founder and influential computer scientist Tang Xiao'ou died at the age of 51, said the company, in a statement on Saturday (Dec 16).&nbsp;"It is with an extremely heavy heart that we announce to everyone the sorrowful news: Our beloved founder... Tang Xiao'ou, due to an illness that could not be treated, left us forever at 23:45 on December 15, 2023," said SenseTime, in an online post.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwaits-ruling-emir-sheikh-nawaf-dies-at-the-age-of-86-670264">Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf dies at 86, Sheikh Meshal, 83, named successor</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399546-succession-2023-12-16t174756028.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, on Saturday (Dec 16), died at the age of 86, after being in power for three years, said the royal court. “With great sadness and sorrow, we – the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world – mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” said a statement aired on Kuwaiti state television.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-could-become-first-country-in-eu-to-provide-nature-with-a-protected-status-670356">Ireland could become first country in EU to provide nature with a protected status</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399579-succession-2023-12-16t212053726.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

The Irish government is planning to consider a request to alter the constitution in order to provide nature with a protected status. This could make Ireland the very first country in the European Union to do so.&nbsp;The proposal, recommended by the Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action, has recommended the government advance a referendum on safeguarding biodiversity. This would grant nature rights similar to that of humans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-with-oman-sultan-haitham-bin-tarik-in-new-delhi-670235">PM Modi holds bilateral with Oman Sultan Haitham bin Tarik as discussions on free trade pact ongoing</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399510-untitled-design-2023-12-16t132814406.png?imwidth=640" />

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik, held a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House on Saturday (Dec 16), focussing on reinforcing the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations.&nbsp;India is the third country Haitham bin Tarik has travelled to following&nbsp;Iran and Singapore after becoming the Sultan of his country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-failing-for-poor-us-records-highest-ever-number-of-homeless-people-670287">Biden failing for the poor? US records highest-ever number of homeless people</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399535-untitled-design-2023-12-16t161131236.png?imwidth=640" />

Homelessness in the United States reached to a record high as it surged to an unprecedented level due to a significant increase in first-time homelessness in the post-pandemic period.&nbsp;The findings of a report released by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development on Friday (Dec 15) revealed that over 650,000 individuals experienced homelessness on a single night in January this year, marking a notable 12 per cent rise from the figures reported in 2022.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16).

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). In other news, Russian President Vladimir Putin will seek re-election as an independent candidate in 2024, Russian news agencies reported on Saturday. Click on the headlines to read more. Cardinal Becciu sent to prison for 5.5 years in historic Vatican fraud trial Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). LIVE: Funeral held for hostage mistakenly killed by Israeli army A hostage who was mistakenly killed by the Israeli military while being held hostage in Gaza by Islamist group Hamas was laid to rest at a funeral in southern Israel on Saturday (December 16). Around 300 people turned out to mourn Samer Fouad Al-Talalka, 25, a member of Israel's Bedouin Arab minority, in his hometown of Hura. 'Independent' Putin is seeking Russian presidency again. Here's what it means On Saturday, a group of over 700 politicians and figures from the sporting and cultural worlds met in Moscow and gave unanimous endorsement to Vladimir Putin as an independent candidate. Putin announced earlier this month that he will seek another six-year term in March next year in Russian presidential election. UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping' A British destroyer shot down a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea, defence minister Grant Shapps on Saturday (Dec 16) said in a statement, amid growing maritime tensions in the region. "Overnight, HMS Diamond shot down a suspected attack drone which was targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea. One Sea Viper missile was fired and successfully destroyed the target," Shapps said in a statement posted on X. Parliament security breach: Five accused reveal their plan of self-immolation The five people, who were arrested for the Parliament security breach on December 13, said that they were earlier considering options of self-immolation and distribution of pamphlets before they decided to jump from the visitors' gallery into the Lok Sabha with smoke canisters, said Delhi Police officials on Saturday (Dec 16). China: AI giant SenseTime founder Tang Xiao'ou dies days after revenue fabrication row China's leading artificial intelligence firm SenseTime's founder and influential computer scientist Tang Xiao'ou died at the age of 51, said the company, in a statement on Saturday (Dec 16). "It is with an extremely heavy heart that we announce to everyone the sorrowful news: Our beloved founder... Tang Xiao'ou, due to an illness that could not be treated, left us forever at 23:45 on December 15, 2023," said SenseTime, in an online post. Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf dies at 86, Sheikh Meshal, 83, named successor The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, on Saturday (Dec 16), died at the age of 86, after being in power for three years, said the royal court. “With great sadness and sorrow, we – the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world – mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” said a statement aired on Kuwaiti state television. Ireland could become first country in EU to provide nature with a protected status The Irish government is planning to consider a request to alter the constitution in order to provide nature with a protected status. This could make Ireland the very first country in the European Union to do so. The proposal, recommended by the Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action, has recommended the government advance a referendum on safeguarding biodiversity. This would grant nature rights similar to that of humans. PM Modi holds bilateral with Oman Sultan Haitham bin Tarik as discussions on free trade pact ongoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik, held a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House on Saturday (Dec 16), focussing on reinforcing the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations. India is the third country Haitham bin Tarik has travelled to following Iran and Singapore after becoming the Sultan of his country. Biden failing for the poor? US records highest-ever number of homeless people Homelessness in the United States reached to a record high as it surged to an unprecedented level due to a significant increase in first-time homelessness in the post-pandemic period. The findings of a report released by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development on Friday (Dec 15) revealed that over 650,000 individuals experienced homelessness on a single night in January this year, marking a notable 12 per cent rise from the figures reported in 2022.

Top 10 news: Funeral held for hostage mistakenly killed by Israel, Cardinal Becciu sent to prison, & more

Spainish acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was re-elected by a majority of legislators to form a new government during a parliamentary vote on Thursday (Nov 16). As many as 179 members of the 350 backed Sanchez, who has been in power since 2018, as he was able to successfully navigate through the controversy over providing amnesty to Catalonia’s separatists.

In other news, The Gaza house of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who is living a lavish life in Qatar, has been pounded by Israeli Defence Forces as the country continues to root out the infrastructure used by the militant group.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pedro-sanchez-re-elected-as-spanish-prime-minister-as-he-braves-amnesty-row-659383">Pedro Sanchez re-elected as Spanish prime minister as he braves amnesty row</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/16/393498-spain.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Spain’s acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was re-elected by a majority of legislators to form a new government during a parliamentary vote on Thursday (Nov 16).&nbsp;As many as 179 members of the 350 backed Sanchez, who has been in power since 2018, as he was able to successfully navigate through the controversy over providing amnesty to Catalonia’s separatists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-israel-demolishes-gaza-home-of-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-in-overnight-airstrikes-659331">WATCH | Israel pounds Gaza home of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/01/390552-untitled-design-21.png?imwidth=1920" />

The Gaza house of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who is living a lavish life in Qatar, has been pounded by Israeli Defence Forces as the country continues to root out the infrastructure used by the militant group. "Overnight, IDF fighter jets struck the residence of Ismail Haniyeh, the Head of Hamas’ Political Bureau," the Israeli Defence Forces wrote while sharing a video on X social media platform.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-eam-jaishankar-discusses-pro-khalistani-extremism-with-uk-leaders-659411">India's EAM Jaishankar discusses pro-Khalistani extremism with UK leaders</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/16/393516-untitled-design-2023-11-16t211216925.png?imwidth=640" />

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar raised the longstanding concerns of the country regarding the presence of pro-Khalistani extremism in Britain with the top leaders of the country and appealed to them to remain alert against misuse of freedom of expression and speech.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarkashi-tunnel-collapse-heavy-duty-drilling-machine-begins-creating-escape-passage-659399">Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Drilling machine begins creating escape passage</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/16/393509-succession-2023-11-16t204309138.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

In the latest attempt to create an escape passage for workers trapped inside a collapsed under-construction tunnel in India's Uttarakhand, a heavy-duty drilling machine, which was flown in by the Indian Air Force from Delhi, got into action and started boring through the rubble on Thursday (Nov 16).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-future-hold-for-rahul-dravid-led-coaching-staff-following-world-cup-2023-659343">What does future hold for Rahul Dravid-led coaching staff following World Cup 2023?</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/16/393478-untitled-design-2023-11-16t182556857.png?imwidth=1920" />

The Indian Team is doing wonders on the cricket field in World Cup 2023, credit for which must go to the players and head coach Rahul Dravid, alongside his staff, putting in countless hours of behind-the-scenes work. From working on the mindset to zeroing in on the final 15 much before the tournament began, the team management had pulled off miracles for the Men in Blue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sentences-artist-alexandra-skochilenko-to-7-years-in-prison-over-ukraine-supermarket-protest-659352">Russia sentences artist Alexandra Skochilenko to 7 years in prison over Ukraine supermarket protest</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/16/393483-succession-2023-11-16t185630305.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Russia on Thursday (Nov 16) sentenced artist Alexandra Skochilenko to seven years imprisonment "for disseminating false information" about the army after she changed supermarket price tags with slogans denouncing Russia's military offensive in Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-wont-resume-trade-talks-with-india-unless-modi-govt-cooperates-in-nijjar-killing-probe-minister-659310">Canada won’t resume trade talks with India unless Modi govt cooperates in Nijjar killing probe: Minister</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/16/393465-canada.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Canada won’t resume trade talks with India unless the Narendra Modi government cooperates into the murder probe of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver last June, Trade Minister Mary Ng indicated.&nbsp;The minister made the remarks on Wednesday (Nov 15) on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in the US city of San Francisco.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sikh-businessman-says-facing-racial-abuse-in-australia-for-past-several-months-659419">Sikh businessman says facing racial abuse in Australia for past several months</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/16/393519-hobart.jpg?imwidth=640" />

From smearing dog excrement on his car to telling to “go home”, a Sikh businessman in Australia has been subjected to racial slurs and threats over the past two to three months.&nbsp;Jairnal Singh, who has been living in Hobart, Tasmania, for the past 10 to 15 years, said that he has been continuously targeted, and added that the constant barrage has shaken him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/plane-makes-emergency-return-to-jfk-airport-after-horse-breaks-free-in-cargo-659326">Plane makes emergency return to JFK airport after horse breaks free in cargo</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/16/393471-untitled-design-2023-11-16t180036739.png?imwidth=640" />

A Boeing 747, which had departed from New York's John F Kennedy International Airport and was en route to Liege, Belgium, was forced to return on November 9 after a horse went loose inside the cargo hold.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-student-speaks-to-wion-reveals-shocking-state-of-canadas-education-system-housing-and-health-infra-659409">Indian student speaks to WION, reveals shocking state of Canada's education system, housing and health infra</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/16/393505-untitled-design-74.png?imwidth=640" />

Leaving her education mid-way, this year before paying her second-year tuition fee, Vrinda Kathore, came back to India in the month of September. She was pursuing a post-graduate diploma in health care management from Canada.&nbsp;

Spainish acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was re-elected by a majority of legislators to form a new government during a parliamentary vote on Thursday (Nov 16).

Spainish acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was re-elected by a majority of legislators to form a new government during a parliamentary vote on Thursday (Nov 16). As many as 179 members of the 350 backed Sanchez, who has been in power since 2018, as he was able to successfully navigate through the controversy over providing amnesty to Catalonia’s separatists. In other news, The Gaza house of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who is living a lavish life in Qatar, has been pounded by Israeli Defence Forces as the country continues to root out the infrastructure used by the militant group. Click on the headlines to read more: Pedro Sanchez re-elected as Spanish prime minister as he braves amnesty row Spain’s acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was re-elected by a majority of legislators to form a new government during a parliamentary vote on Thursday (Nov 16). As many as 179 members of the 350 backed Sanchez, who has been in power since 2018, as he was able to successfully navigate through the controversy over providing amnesty to Catalonia’s separatists. WATCH | Israel pounds Gaza home of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh The Gaza house of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who is living a lavish life in Qatar, has been pounded by Israeli Defence Forces as the country continues to root out the infrastructure used by the militant group. "Overnight, IDF fighter jets struck the residence of Ismail Haniyeh, the Head of Hamas’ Political Bureau," the Israeli Defence Forces wrote while sharing a video on X social media platform. India's EAM Jaishankar discusses pro-Khalistani extremism with UK leaders India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar raised the longstanding concerns of the country regarding the presence of pro-Khalistani extremism in Britain with the top leaders of the country and appealed to them to remain alert against misuse of freedom of expression and speech. Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Drilling machine begins creating escape passage In the latest attempt to create an escape passage for workers trapped inside a collapsed under-construction tunnel in India's Uttarakhand, a heavy-duty drilling machine, which was flown in by the Indian Air Force from Delhi, got into action and started boring through the rubble on Thursday (Nov 16). What does future hold for Rahul Dravid-led coaching staff following World Cup 2023? The Indian Team is doing wonders on the cricket field in World Cup 2023, credit for which must go to the players and head coach Rahul Dravid, alongside his staff, putting in countless hours of behind-the-scenes work. From working on the mindset to zeroing in on the final 15 much before the tournament began, the team management had pulled off miracles for the Men in Blue. Russia sentences artist Alexandra Skochilenko to 7 years in prison over Ukraine supermarket protest Russia on Thursday (Nov 16) sentenced artist Alexandra Skochilenko to seven years imprisonment "for disseminating false information" about the army after she changed supermarket price tags with slogans denouncing Russia's military offensive in Ukraine. Canada won’t resume trade talks with India unless Modi govt cooperates in Nijjar killing probe: Minister Canada won’t resume trade talks with India unless the Narendra Modi government cooperates into the murder probe of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver last June, Trade Minister Mary Ng indicated. The minister made the remarks on Wednesday (Nov 15) on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in the US city of San Francisco. Sikh businessman says facing racial abuse in Australia for past several months From smearing dog excrement on his car to telling to “go home”, a Sikh businessman in Australia has been subjected to racial slurs and threats over the past two to three months. Jairnal Singh, who has been living in Hobart, Tasmania, for the past 10 to 15 years, said that he has been continuously targeted, and added that the constant barrage has shaken him. Plane makes emergency return to JFK airport after horse breaks free in cargo A Boeing 747, which had departed from New York's John F Kennedy International Airport and was en route to Liege, Belgium, was forced to return on November 9 after a horse went loose inside the cargo hold. Indian student speaks to WION, reveals shocking state of Canada's education system, housing and health infra Leaving her education mid-way, this year before paying her second-year tuition fee, Vrinda Kathore, came back to India in the month of September. She was pursuing a post-graduate diploma in health care management from Canada.

Top 10 world news: Israel pounds Gaza home of Hamas leader, Pedro Sanchez re-elected as Spanish PM, and more

The mutual distrust between India and China keeps the Line of Actual Control between two Asian powers prone to "sudden flare-ups of violence", with consequences that could reach far beyond the region, a global think tank has concluded in its latest report. The report also notes that a return to the times when boundary issue was shelved to let India-China bilateral ties get stronger "seems improbable in the short term". In other news, &nbsp;the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Nov 15) ruled as unlawful the British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s controversial plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-lac-prone-to-sudden-flare-ups-of-violence-says-global-think-tank-658902">India-China LAC prone to 'sudden flare-ups', says global think-tank</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393253-untitled-design-2023-11-15t194250459.png?imwidth=640" />

The number of Chinese incursions into Indian side of Line of Actual Control (LAC) tripled since Xi Jinping took over the corridors of power in 2013, the report points out while citing a dataset from November 2012 to November 2022.&nbsp;But notably, those incursions have been relatively low in "scale and intensity" in the Middle Sector of India-China boundary.&nbsp;"The number of transgressions by the Chinese troops in the last decade has been quite high in the western and eastern sectors compared to the least-disputed middle sector. So, the delineation of the border in the middle sector is the low-hanging fruit that both sides could pursue," Praveen Donthi, Senior India Analyst at International Crisis Group told WION.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-strikes-down-rishi-sunaks-plant-to-deport-rwanda-asylum-seekers-658799">Supreme Court strikes down Sunak’s plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/07/391739-the-battle-for-kyiv-2023-11-07t165356285.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The lower court had found that sending anyone to Rwanda would be in breach of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) laws as there was a “real risk” they could be returned to their home countries to face “persecution or other inhumane treatment”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-general-elections-to-be-held-on-jan-7-2024-658887">Bangladesh general elections to be held on Jan 7, 2024</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393244-bangla.jpg?imwidth=640" />

The general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal announced on Wednesday (Nov 15).&nbsp;The announcement was made in a televised speech for the first time in the history of Bangladesh. Earlier, the chief election commissioners used to air the recorded version of the polls schedule to address the nation, Dhaka Tribune reports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-steps-down-as-pakistan-captain-after-world-cup-debacle-658881">Babar Azam steps down as Pak captain in all formats after World Cup debacle</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/14/392937-1-2023-11-14t122738882.png?imwidth=640" />

Pakistan men's cricket team captain Babar Azam has stepped down from his post in all three formats after the culmination of&nbsp;a disastrous World Cup campaign in India. Babar took to social media to post a statement wherein he said it was a 'difficult decision' but the right time to make the call.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/halsey-admits-cowardice-criticism-for-silence-on-israel-hamas-war-reveals-the-reason-658842">Halsey admits 'cowardice' criticism for silence on Israel-Hamas war</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393222-halsey.png?imwidth=640" />

Pop sensation Halsey recently took to Instagram to address critics who labelled her a 'coward' for not speaking out earlier on the Israel-Palestine conflict. In a candid and heartfelt post, the singer opened up about the challenges she faced during her tour, revealing that past threats, including instances of violence and swatting at her home, influenced her decision to stay silent initially.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madagascar-imposes-curfew-in-antananarivo-ahead-of-presidential-elections-658872">Madagascar imposes curfew in Antananarivo ahead of presidential elections</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393235-succession-2023-11-15t183717391.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Amid heightened political tensions, authorities in Madagascar imposed a curfew on Wednesday (Nov 15) a day ahead of the presidential elections scheduled on Thursday (Nov 16), after a majority of opposition candidates boycotted the polls in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-massive-fire-engulfs-express-train-in-indias-up-three-coaches-gutted-658911">Watch: Massive fire engulfs express train in India's UP, three coaches gutted</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393262-untitled-design-2023-11-15t192558446.png?imwidth=640" />

A massive fire broke out in the New Delhi-Darbhanga Special Express when it was passing through Etawah city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday evening (Nov 15), stated officials. The officials confirmed no casualties in the mishap and said the fire was doused later.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-earthquakes-cause-massive-cracks-on-roads-in-iceland-smoke-rises-from-ground-658725">Watch | Earthquakes in Iceland cause massive cracks on roads, smoke rises from ground</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393169-wion-images-61.png?imwidth=640" />

Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption after the nation was rattled by a series of earthquakes which has since prompted officials to declare a state of emergency. Huge cracks could be seen on roads in the Icelandic town of Grindavik, where most of the tremors took place.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-plans-to-send-cosmonauts-to-moon-for-first-time-in-next-decade-658934">Russia plans to send cosmonauts to Moon for first time in next decade</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393271-untitled-design-2023-11-15t210119361.png?imwidth=1920" />

Russia has been planning to send cosmonauts to the Moon for the first time in history. The cosmonauts are likely to go to the Moon in the next decade and intend to construct a moon base from 2031, as per the Russian corporation which is responsible for manned space flights, as reported by state news agency TASS.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mcdonalds-faces-one-to-two-sexual-harassment-allegations-from-workers-every-week-says-its-uk-boss-658705">McDonald's faces 'one to two' sexual harassment allegations from workers every week, says its UK boss</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/16/262741-0001oj89y.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Alistair Macrow, chief executive of McDonald's UK and Ireland, said Tuesday (Nov 14) that the fast-food giant faces "one to two" sexual harassment allegations from workers every week. The issue was recently exposed by the BBC and Macrow has promised to tackle the alarming situation.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The mutual distrust between India and China keeps the Line of Actual Control between two Asian powers prone to "sudden flare-ups of violence", with consequences that could reach far beyond the region, a global think tank has concluded in its latest report.

The mutual distrust between India and China keeps the Line of Actual Control between two Asian powers prone to "sudden flare-ups of violence", with consequences that could reach far beyond the region, a global think tank has concluded in its latest report. The report also notes that a return to the times when boundary issue was shelved to let India-China bilateral ties get stronger "seems improbable in the short term". In other news, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Nov 15) ruled as unlawful the British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s controversial plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda. Click on the headlines to read more: India-China LAC prone to 'sudden flare-ups', says global think-tank The number of Chinese incursions into Indian side of Line of Actual Control (LAC) tripled since Xi Jinping took over the corridors of power in 2013, the report points out while citing a dataset from November 2012 to November 2022. But notably, those incursions have been relatively low in "scale and intensity" in the Middle Sector of India-China boundary. "The number of transgressions by the Chinese troops in the last decade has been quite high in the western and eastern sectors compared to the least-disputed middle sector. So, the delineation of the border in the middle sector is the low-hanging fruit that both sides could pursue," Praveen Donthi, Senior India Analyst at International Crisis Group told WION. Supreme Court strikes down Sunak’s plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda The lower court had found that sending anyone to Rwanda would be in breach of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) laws as there was a “real risk” they could be returned to their home countries to face “persecution or other inhumane treatment”. Bangladesh general elections to be held on Jan 7, 2024 The general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal announced on Wednesday (Nov 15). The announcement was made in a televised speech for the first time in the history of Bangladesh. Earlier, the chief election commissioners used to air the recorded version of the polls schedule to address the nation, Dhaka Tribune reports. Babar Azam steps down as Pak captain in all formats after World Cup debacle Pakistan men's cricket team captain Babar Azam has stepped down from his post in all three formats after the culmination of a disastrous World Cup campaign in India. Babar took to social media to post a statement wherein he said it was a 'difficult decision' but the right time to make the call. Halsey admits 'cowardice' criticism for silence on Israel-Hamas war Pop sensation Halsey recently took to Instagram to address critics who labelled her a 'coward' for not speaking out earlier on the Israel-Palestine conflict. In a candid and heartfelt post, the singer opened up about the challenges she faced during her tour, revealing that past threats, including instances of violence and swatting at her home, influenced her decision to stay silent initially. Madagascar imposes curfew in Antananarivo ahead of presidential elections Amid heightened political tensions, authorities in Madagascar imposed a curfew on Wednesday (Nov 15) a day ahead of the presidential elections scheduled on Thursday (Nov 16), after a majority of opposition candidates boycotted the polls in the country. Watch: Massive fire engulfs express train in India's UP, three coaches gutted A massive fire broke out in the New Delhi-Darbhanga Special Express when it was passing through Etawah city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday evening (Nov 15), stated officials. The officials confirmed no casualties in the mishap and said the fire was doused later. Watch | Earthquakes in Iceland cause massive cracks on roads, smoke rises from ground Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption after the nation was rattled by a series of earthquakes which has since prompted officials to declare a state of emergency. Huge cracks could be seen on roads in the Icelandic town of Grindavik, where most of the tremors took place. Russia plans to send cosmonauts to Moon for first time in next decade Russia has been planning to send cosmonauts to the Moon for the first time in history. The cosmonauts are likely to go to the Moon in the next decade and intend to construct a moon base from 2031, as per the Russian corporation which is responsible for manned space flights, as reported by state news agency TASS. McDonald's faces 'one to two' sexual harassment allegations from workers every week, says its UK boss Alistair Macrow, chief executive of McDonald's UK and Ireland, said Tuesday (Nov 14) that the fast-food giant faces "one to two" sexual harassment allegations from workers every week. The issue was recently exposed by the BBC and Macrow has promised to tackle the alarming situation.

Top 10 news: India-China LAC prone to sudden flare-ups, Bangladesh general elections to be held in Jan, & more

United States President Joe Biden will be meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in San Francisco on November 15 with the aim to "stabilise" recent tensions which brewed between the powers, said US officials.

In other news, The India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, involving the defence and foreign ministers of the two countries, concluded on Friday (Nov 10) in the Indian capital New Delhi. &nbsp;Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar of India held talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on strategic and defence ties, cooperation in space and tech, and increased people-to-people contacts.

In a shocking development from the sports world, the International Cricket Council (ICC) suspended the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) with immediate effect over excessive government interference.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-set-to-meet-chinas-xi-on-november-15-to-stabilise-ties-657351">US President Biden set to meet China's Xi on November 15 to 'stabilise' ties</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/10/392422-untitled-design-2023-11-10t184628377.png?imwidth=1920" />

"President Biden will indeed meet with President Xi Jinping of the People's Republic of China in the San Francisco Bay area of California on November 15," stated a senior US official, while speaking to reporters on Thursday (Nov 9). "Our goal will be to try to take steps that indeed stabilise the relationship between United States and China, remove some areas of misunderstanding and open up new lines of communication. We are in competition with China, but we do not seek conflict confrontation or a new Cold War. We're for managing the competition responsibly,” he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-22-dialogue-concludes-ministers-discuss-west-asia-indo-pacific-657273">India-US 2+2: Ministers discuss West Asia; MQ-9B drones deal on the charts</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/10/392382-untitled-design-46.png?imwidth=1920" />

In a post on X,&nbsp;Jaishankar said, "Followed up on PM Narendra Modi’s State visit to the US this June. Our agenda covered advancing our strategic partnership, including elevating our defense ties, &nbsp;moving forward in space &amp; tech, future logistics cooperation, and people-to-people contacts."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-suspends-sri-lankan-cricket-board-with-immediate-effect-over-government-interference-657392">ICC suspends Sri Lanka Cricket over excessive government interference</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/10/392444-untitled-design-2023-11-10t210834258.png?imwidth=640" />

In a shocking development, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) with immediate effect over excessive government interference. Following Sri Lanka’s Sports Minister, Roshan Ranasinghe’s decision to dissolve the board over widespread corruption charges and then with the Sri Lanka court intervening by restoring all expelled members, the ICC decided to suspend the board over questionable activities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-pollution-no-odd-even-rule-to-come-into-effect-in-indias-national-capital-657278">Delhi air pollution: No odd-even rule to come into effect in India's capital</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/10/392384-untitled-design-2023-11-10t155559440.png?imwidth=640" />

The so-called 'odd-even' traffic restriction scheme will not come into effect in Delhi as of now, the Indian capital's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Friday (Nov 10). The&nbsp;scheme, in which the movement of privately owned vehicles is restricted on the basis of their odd or even registration numbers, was supposed to be enforced from November 14, as the air quality of the city and nearby regions worsened in the past few days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/in-a-major-breakthrough-surgeons-perform-worlds-first-whole-eye-transplant-657137">In a major breakthrough, surgeons perform world's first whole eye transplant</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/10/392309-surgeon.png?imwidth=640" />

The surgeons in the United States have performed the world's first transplant of an entire eye in a procedure on a man. This has been hailed as a major breakthrough, but it's not sure the man will regain vision.&nbsp;For years, surgeons have been able to transplant corneas successfully, but the latest surgery involved removing part of the face and the whole left eye, which included its blood supply and the optic nerve of a donor.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/polands-opposition-parties-reach-coalition-agreement-say-we-are-ready-to-govern-657346">Poland's opposition parties reach coalition agreement, say 'we are ready to govern'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/10/392421-succession-2023-11-10t180714773.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Poland's liberal opposition parties reached a coalition agreement on Friday (Nov 10), stating that this would act as a "roadmap" for the fresh alliance if given a chance to take power.&nbsp;Donald Tusk, the opposition's candidate for prime minister said that in the coming years, they were ready to take responsibility of the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-jailed-nobel-prize-winner-narges-mohammadi-ends-hunger-strike-657357">Iran's jailed Nobel Prize winner Narges Mohammadi ends hunger strike</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/10/392424-untitled-design-2023-11-10t180546282.png?imwidth=1920" />

Jailed Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi's family member stated that the activist has ended her hunger strike after she was allowed to get medical treatment without wearing the compulsory head covering.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-comes-under-attack-of-bedbugs-lawmakers-call-for-precautions-657388">Hong Kong comes under attack of bedbugs, lawmakers call for precautions</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/10/392441-untitled-design-2023-11-10t205218950.png?imwidth=640" />

The lawmakers in Hong Kong have appealed to the authorities to take steps to prevent bedbugs from spreading in the city after a photo was widely circulated online in which bedbugs were seen on an Airport Express train, reported South China Morning Post.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-military-junta-says-offensive-by-rebel-groups-funded-by-drug-trade-657344">Myanmar: Military junta says offensive by rebel groups funded by drug trade</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/10/392420-2023-11-10t095739z1lynxmpeja908zrtroptp4myanmar-violence-military.JPG?imwidth=640" />

Myanmar's military junta said that a major offensive in the country's northeast by an alliance of rebel groups was funded in part from profits earned by one of the groups from the region's lucrative drug trade. During a meeting of the National Defense and Security Council on Wednesday, junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing said that the current problem in the Shan state was triggered by "narcotic drug problems,"&nbsp;the news agency Associated Press reported on Friday (Nov 10)&nbsp;citing local media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-jared-leto-makes-history-by-climbing-the-empire-state-building-657338">Jared Leto makes history by climbing the Empire State Building</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/10/392416-jared-leto.png?imwidth=1920" />

Jared Leto, actor and frontman of the band 30 Seconds to Mars, achieved a remarkable feat on Thursday (Nov 9) by becoming the first person ever to climb a section of the Empire State Building. Instead of scaling the entire skyscraper, Leto tackled the stretch between floor 86 and the building's peak, completing the climb in approximately 20 minutes.

United States President Joe Biden will be meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in San Francisco on November 15 with the aim to "stabilise" recent tensions which brewed between the powers, said US officials.

United States President Joe Biden will be meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in San Francisco on November 15 with the aim to "stabilise" recent tensions which brewed between the powers, said US officials. In other news, The India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, involving the defence and foreign ministers of the two countries, concluded on Friday (Nov 10) in the Indian capital New Delhi. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar of India held talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on strategic and defence ties, cooperation in space and tech, and increased people-to-people contacts. In a shocking development from the sports world, the International Cricket Council (ICC) suspended the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) with immediate effect over excessive government interference. Click on the headlines to read more: US President Biden set to meet China's Xi on November 15 to 'stabilise' ties "President Biden will indeed meet with President Xi Jinping of the People's Republic of China in the San Francisco Bay area of California on November 15," stated a senior US official, while speaking to reporters on Thursday (Nov 9). "Our goal will be to try to take steps that indeed stabilise the relationship between United States and China, remove some areas of misunderstanding and open up new lines of communication. We are in competition with China, but we do not seek conflict confrontation or a new Cold War. We're for managing the competition responsibly,” he added. India-US 2+2: Ministers discuss West Asia; MQ-9B drones deal on the charts In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "Followed up on PM Narendra Modi’s State visit to the US this June. Our agenda covered advancing our strategic partnership, including elevating our defense ties, moving forward in space & tech, future logistics cooperation, and people-to-people contacts." ICC suspends Sri Lanka Cricket over excessive government interference In a shocking development, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) with immediate effect over excessive government interference. Following Sri Lanka’s Sports Minister, Roshan Ranasinghe’s decision to dissolve the board over widespread corruption charges and then with the Sri Lanka court intervening by restoring all expelled members, the ICC decided to suspend the board over questionable activities. Delhi air pollution: No odd-even rule to come into effect in India's capital The so-called 'odd-even' traffic restriction scheme will not come into effect in Delhi as of now, the Indian capital's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Friday (Nov 10). The scheme, in which the movement of privately owned vehicles is restricted on the basis of their odd or even registration numbers, was supposed to be enforced from November 14, as the air quality of the city and nearby regions worsened in the past few days. In a major breakthrough, surgeons perform world's first whole eye transplant The surgeons in the United States have performed the world's first transplant of an entire eye in a procedure on a man. This has been hailed as a major breakthrough, but it's not sure the man will regain vision. For years, surgeons have been able to transplant corneas successfully, but the latest surgery involved removing part of the face and the whole left eye, which included its blood supply and the optic nerve of a donor. Poland's opposition parties reach coalition agreement, say 'we are ready to govern' Poland's liberal opposition parties reached a coalition agreement on Friday (Nov 10), stating that this would act as a "roadmap" for the fresh alliance if given a chance to take power. Donald Tusk, the opposition's candidate for prime minister said that in the coming years, they were ready to take responsibility of the country. Iran's jailed Nobel Prize winner Narges Mohammadi ends hunger strike Jailed Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi's family member stated that the activist has ended her hunger strike after she was allowed to get medical treatment without wearing the compulsory head covering. Hong Kong comes under attack of bedbugs, lawmakers call for precautions The lawmakers in Hong Kong have appealed to the authorities to take steps to prevent bedbugs from spreading in the city after a photo was widely circulated online in which bedbugs were seen on an Airport Express train, reported South China Morning Post. Myanmar: Military junta says offensive by rebel groups funded by drug trade Myanmar's military junta said that a major offensive in the country's northeast by an alliance of rebel groups was funded in part from profits earned by one of the groups from the region's lucrative drug trade. During a meeting of the National Defense and Security Council on Wednesday, junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing said that the current problem in the Shan state was triggered by "narcotic drug problems," the news agency Associated Press reported on Friday (Nov 10) citing local media. Jared Leto makes history by climbing the Empire State Building Jared Leto, actor and frontman of the band 30 Seconds to Mars, achieved a remarkable feat on Thursday (Nov 9) by becoming the first person ever to climb a section of the Empire State Building. Instead of scaling the entire skyscraper, Leto tackled the stretch between floor 86 and the building's peak, completing the climb in approximately 20 minutes.

Top 10 world news: India-US 2+2 ministerial dialogue, Biden-Xi meet date, and more

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday (Nov 5) made a high-security surprise visit to the Israeli-occupied West Bank and met with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas. This was top US diplomat's first visit to the Palestinian territory since the war broke out. In other news from sports world, the Indian cricket team continued their impressive run of form at the ongoing ODI World Cup as the Men in Blue sealed the top spot after beating South Africa on Sunday (Nov 5).&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-makes-surprise-west-bank-visit-meets-palestinian-president-abbas-655424">Blinken makes surprise West Bank visit, meets Palestinian president Abbas</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/05/391323-succession-2023-11-05t180317089.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

During his very first visit to the Palestinian territory since the war broke out, Binken said that Gazans "must not be forcibly displaced". "The Secretary reaffirmed the United States' commitment to the delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance and resumption of essential services in Gaza and made clear that Palestinians must not be forcibly displaced," said a summary of the meeting released by the US State Department.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-hostage-incident-at-hamburg-airport-involving-child-ends-father-arrested-655440">Germany: Hostage incident at Hamburg airport involving child ends</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/05/391330-2023-11-05t140523z3lynxmpeja402ertroptp4hamburg-airport.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

The German Police said on Sunday (Nov 5) that an armed father who had taken his four-year-old daughter hostage at the Hamburg airport gave himself without resistance after hours of negotiations. Sharing a post on X, the local police said the child seemed in good health. The man, aged 35, was arrested.&nbsp;"The hostage-taking has ended, the man has left his car with his daughter and been taken for questioning by security forces without resistance," the post said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-virat-kohli-overshadows-jadejas-bowling-salvo-as-india-crush-south-africa-to-clinch-top-spot-655463">ODI World Cup: Kohli's ton, Jadeja's 5-wkt haul help India crush South Africa</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/05/391344-1-75.png?imwidth=640" />

The Indian cricket team continued their impressive run of form at the ongoing ODI World Cup as the Men in Blue sealed the top spot after beating South Africa on Sunday (Nov 5). In a contest highlighted by Virat Kohli’s record-equaling 49th ODI ton, India won by staggering 243&nbsp;runs despite the Proteas&nbsp;in top form. Ravindra Jadeja was the bowling star having ended with figures of 33/5. India will now take on the Netherlands in their last league match next Sunday before playing the semifinal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/gal-gadot-plans-to-organise-screening-of-idf-footage-depicting-hamas-atrocities-on-israeli-civilians-655444">Gal Gadot to organise screening of IDF footage depicting Hamas atrocities</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/11/48520-Untitled%2520design_73.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Israeli actress Gal Gadot, renowned for her iconic role as Wonder Woman, is taking steps to bring international attention to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the&nbsp;Gaza Strip. In a collaborative effort, Gadot is organising a screening of a powerful 47-minute video provided by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesperson's Unit on Wednesday.&nbsp;The screening will take place in Los Angeles, although at the same time, there will also be another screening in New York.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-says-no-gaza-ceasefire-until-hostages-are-returned-655483">Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu says no Gaza ceasefire until hostages are returned</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/05/391356-untitled-design.png?imwidth=1920" />

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been facing growing calls for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, said on Sunday (Nov 5) that there would be no ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave until over 200 Israeli hostages were freed by Hamas.&nbsp;"There will be no ceasefire without the return of the hostages. This should be completely removed from the lexicon," Prime Minister Netanyahu told crews at the Ramon air force base in southern Israel, the news agency Reuters reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-radio-broadcaster-shot-dead-inside-studio-president-orders-probe-655372">Philippines: Radio broadcaster shot dead inside studio, president orders probe</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/05/391300-dj-johnny-walker.jpg?imwidth=640" />

A radio broadcaster in the Philippines was shot dead in his studio on Sunday (Nov 5). Juan Jumalon, 57, also known as "DJ Johnny Walker" used to do his Cebuano-language show at the 94.7 Gold FM Calamba station, a report by the news agency AFP said. According to the police, Jumalon was in his home-based studio on the island of Mindanao when a gunman shot him in the head.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-italy-now-philippines-jumps-off-the-belt-and-road-bandwagon-is-xi-jinpings-bri-exploitative-655395">Philippines joins Italy in exiting Belt and Road. Is Xi's BRI exploitative?</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/05/391308-the-battle-for-kyiv-2023-11-05t171847242.png?imwidth=640" />

The Philippines has delivered a significant blow to China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)&nbsp;by opting to exit the trillion-dollar infrastructure project of President Xi Jinping.&nbsp;The announcement followed a recent collision between a Philippines boat and a Chinese coastguard vessel in the South China Sea. Furthermore, China's military alleged that a Philippines military ship entered waters near Scarborough Shoal without permission.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-300-us-residents-evacuated-from-gaza-says-white-house-655474">More than 300 US residents evacuated from Gaza, says White House</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/05/391353-succession-2023-11-05t205838231.jpg?imwidth=640" />

The White House on Sunday (Nov 5) said that more than 300 US residents and Americans were evacuated from the war-torn Gaza Strip as the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas intensifies.&nbsp;The evacuations that were carried out in the recent days were a result of "pretty intensive negotiations with all sides relevant to this conflict," White House Deputy National Security Advisor Jonathan Finertold CBS News.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/online-school-restrictions-on-vehicles-indian-govt-implements-curbs-in-light-of-delhi-smog-655434">Online school, restrictions on vehicles: Indian govt implements curbs in light of stifling Delhi smog</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/05/391326-smoh.jpg?imwidth=640" />

The Indian government on Sunday sounded a high alert in the wake of worsening air pollution in Delhi and its adjoining areas, as it issued a series of measures to curb smog in the national capital city.&nbsp;The government announced the implementation of stage-IV measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) - the highest level of alert - with immediate effect.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-quake-amid-destruction-municipality-at-epicentre-miraculously-escapes-death-655390">Nepal quake: Municipality at epicentre miraculously escapes destruction despite widespread havoc</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/05/391307-succession-2023-11-05t170828360.jpg?imwidth=640" />

The devastating trail of earthquake in Nepal dodged a set of municipal workers, which is currently being hailed as a miracle in and beyond the Himalayan country sandwiched between India and China.&nbsp;Where the deadly quake claimed the lives of at least 157, the municipality in Nepal's Jajarkot district reported no casualties, as per a media report on Sunday (Nov 5).

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday (Nov 5) made a high-security surprise visit to the Israeli-occupied West Bank and met with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday (Nov 5) made a high-security surprise visit to the Israeli-occupied West Bank and met with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas. This was top US diplomat's first visit to the Palestinian territory since the war broke out. In other news from sports world, the Indian cricket team continued their impressive run of form at the ongoing ODI World Cup as the Men in Blue sealed the top spot after beating South Africa on Sunday (Nov 5). Click on the headlines to read more: Blinken makes surprise West Bank visit, meets Palestinian president Abbas During his very first visit to the Palestinian territory since the war broke out, Binken said that Gazans "must not be forcibly displaced". "The Secretary reaffirmed the United States' commitment to the delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance and resumption of essential services in Gaza and made clear that Palestinians must not be forcibly displaced," said a summary of the meeting released by the US State Department. Germany: Hostage incident at Hamburg airport involving child ends The German Police said on Sunday (Nov 5) that an armed father who had taken his four-year-old daughter hostage at the Hamburg airport gave himself without resistance after hours of negotiations. Sharing a post on X, the local police said the child seemed in good health. The man, aged 35, was arrested. "The hostage-taking has ended, the man has left his car with his daughter and been taken for questioning by security forces without resistance," the post said. ODI World Cup: Kohli's ton, Jadeja's 5-wkt haul help India crush South Africa The Indian cricket team continued their impressive run of form at the ongoing ODI World Cup as the Men in Blue sealed the top spot after beating South Africa on Sunday (Nov 5). In a contest highlighted by Virat Kohli’s record-equaling 49th ODI ton, India won by staggering 243 runs despite the Proteas in top form. Ravindra Jadeja was the bowling star having ended with figures of 33/5. India will now take on the Netherlands in their last league match next Sunday before playing the semifinal. Gal Gadot to organise screening of IDF footage depicting Hamas atrocities Israeli actress Gal Gadot, renowned for her iconic role as Wonder Woman, is taking steps to bring international attention to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip. In a collaborative effort, Gadot is organising a screening of a powerful 47-minute video provided by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesperson's Unit on Wednesday. The screening will take place in Los Angeles, although at the same time, there will also be another screening in New York. Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu says no Gaza ceasefire until hostages are returned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been facing growing calls for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, said on Sunday (Nov 5) that there would be no ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave until over 200 Israeli hostages were freed by Hamas. "There will be no ceasefire without the return of the hostages. This should be completely removed from the lexicon," Prime Minister Netanyahu told crews at the Ramon air force base in southern Israel, the news agency Reuters reported. Philippines: Radio broadcaster shot dead inside studio, president orders probe A radio broadcaster in the Philippines was shot dead in his studio on Sunday (Nov 5). Juan Jumalon, 57, also known as "DJ Johnny Walker" used to do his Cebuano-language show at the 94.7 Gold FM Calamba station, a report by the news agency AFP said. According to the police, Jumalon was in his home-based studio on the island of Mindanao when a gunman shot him in the head. Philippines joins Italy in exiting Belt and Road. Is Xi's BRI exploitative? The Philippines has delivered a significant blow to China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by opting to exit the trillion-dollar infrastructure project of President Xi Jinping. The announcement followed a recent collision between a Philippines boat and a Chinese coastguard vessel in the South China Sea. Furthermore, China's military alleged that a Philippines military ship entered waters near Scarborough Shoal without permission. More than 300 US residents evacuated from Gaza, says White House The White House on Sunday (Nov 5) said that more than 300 US residents and Americans were evacuated from the war-torn Gaza Strip as the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas intensifies. The evacuations that were carried out in the recent days were a result of "pretty intensive negotiations with all sides relevant to this conflict," White House Deputy National Security Advisor Jonathan Finertold CBS News. Online school, restrictions on vehicles: Indian govt implements curbs in light of stifling Delhi smog The Indian government on Sunday sounded a high alert in the wake of worsening air pollution in Delhi and its adjoining areas, as it issued a series of measures to curb smog in the national capital city. The government announced the implementation of stage-IV measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) - the highest level of alert - with immediate effect. Nepal quake: Municipality at epicentre miraculously escapes destruction despite widespread havoc The devastating trail of earthquake in Nepal dodged a set of municipal workers, which is currently being hailed as a miracle in and beyond the Himalayan country sandwiched between India and China. Where the deadly quake claimed the lives of at least 157, the municipality in Nepal's Jajarkot district reported no casualties, as per a media report on Sunday (Nov 5).

Top 10 world news: Blinken meets Palestinian President Abbas, India beat South Africa in World Cup, and more

The Turkish foreign ministry on Saturday (Nov 4) said that it has decided to call its ambassador from Israel to Ankara for consultations. In a statement, the foreign ministry said the decision to recall Sakir Özkan Torunlar was taken due to Israel's refusal of a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and also its refusal for continuous and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid. In other news, an earthquake in Nepal has claimed lives of at least 157, the news agency Reuters reported on Saturday (Nov 4).&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-turkey-recalls-ambassador-from-israel-after-tel-avivs-refusal-of-ceasefire-in-conflict-655116">Israel-Hamas war: Turkey recalls ambassador from Israel on ceasefire refusal</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/04/391169-untitled-design-46.png?imwidth=1920" />

In a statement, the foreign ministry said the decision to recall Sakir Özkan Torunlar was taken due to Israel's refusal of a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and also its refusal for continuous and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid.&nbsp;"In view of the unfolding humanitarian tragedy in Gaza caused by the continuing attacks by Israel against civilians, and Israel’s refusal of calls for a ceasefire and continuous and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid, it was decided to recall our Ambassador in Tel Aviv, H.E. Mr. Şakir Özkan Torunlar, to Ankara for consultations," the statement said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-clear-zelensky-says-israel-hamas-war-taking-away-focus-from-ukraine-655131">Zelensky says Israel-Hamas war 'taking away focus' from Ukraine</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/04/391166-untitled-design-34.png?imwidth=1920" />

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his concerns on Saturday (Nov 4)&nbsp;saying that the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in West Asia has shifted the "focus" away from the ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;During a press conference alongside EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, Zelensky said, "Of course, it's clear that the war in the Middle East, this conflict, is taking away the focus."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-earthquake-rescuers-dig-through-rubble-with-bare-hands-as-deaths-climb-to-157-655154">Nepal earthquake: Rescuers dig through rubble with bare hands as deaths climb to 157</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/04/391182-2023-11-04t130918z2lynxmpeja303jrtroptp4nepal-quake.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

The death toll due to an earthquake in Nepal has climbed to 157, the news agency Reuters reported on Saturday (Nov 4). Rescue workers started digging through the rubble of collapsed houses with their bare hands to search for any survivors. The earthquake struck the Jajarkot region in the west on Friday night with a magnitude of 6.4, &nbsp;Nepal's National Seismological Centre said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-jaishankar-emphasises-on-two-state-solution-in-talks-with-israeli-counterpart-655142">India's EAM discusses 'two-state solution' in talks with Israeli counterpart</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/04/391174-untitled-design-2023-11-04t193137832.png?imwidth=640" />

Amid the escalating war between Israel and Hamas which has pushed the Gaza Strip into a deepening humanitarian crisis, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with his Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen on Saturday (Oct 4).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musks-startup-xai-to-release-first-ai-model-among-select-group-655135">Musk makes groundbreaking move in field of AI, set to launch first chatbot</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/04/391170-untitled-design-2023-11-04t183750046.png?imwidth=640" />

The artificial intelligence startup of Elon Musk, called xAI, is set to release its first AI model to a few select groups on Saturday (Oct 4), announced the billionaire and Tesla CEO on Friday (Oct 3).&nbsp;The step has been taken almost a year after OpenAI's ChatGPT was launched which changed the ways in which businesses worked across the world and pushed people toward adopting the generative AI technology.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-pakistan-beat-new-zealand-by-21-runs-via-dls-to-stay-alive-semifinals-race-655124">ODI WC 2023: Pakistan beat NZ by 21 runs via DLS, stay alive in semis race</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/04/391164-untitled-design-2023-11-04t191928359.png?imwidth=640" />

Pakistan survived a magnificent hundred by New Zealand star Rachin Ravindra and won the rain-affected ODI World Cup 2023 match on November 4 in Bengaluru by 21 runs to stay alive in the tournament. Chasing 402, Pakistan were 200/1 when the umpires decided to call off the match.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/russell-brand-accused-of-sexually-assaulting-extra-on-2010-film-set-655126">Russell Brand accused of sexually assaulting extra on 2010 film set</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/04/391167-untitled-design-2023-11-04t192809837.jpg?imwidth=640" />

British comedian Russell Brand is embroiled in a legal battle after being accused of sexually assaulting an extra during the filming of the rom-com&nbsp;Arthur&nbsp;in July 2010. The civil lawsuit was filed in the US and marks the first time such allegations have appeared in a formal legal setting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-in-jordan-us-secretary-of-state-blinken-urges-israel-to-prevent-civilian-casualties-655144">Israel-Hamas war: In Jordan, US Secretary of State Blinken urges Israel to prevent civilian casualties</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/04/391179-untitled-design-48.png?imwidth=1920" />

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is in Jordan, said on Saturday (Nov 4) that Israel must take every possible measure to prevent civilian casualties as its war with Hamas intensifies in the Gaza Strip. Addressing a press conference in Amman along with Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, Blinken said that Israel must also take every possible measure to protect civilians.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-hit-un-school-serving-as-a-shelter-in-gaza-kills-15-655074">Israeli airstrikes hit UN school serving as a shelter in Gaza, kills 15</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/04/391142-untitled-design-2023-11-04t153911324.png?imwidth=640" />

A deadly airstrike by Israel on Gaza City hit a school, which was being run by the United Nations and was serving as a shelter, on Saturday (Nov 4). The attack took place at a time when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was set to hear demands of the Arabs for a ceasefire in a meeting to be held in Jordan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mark-zuckerberg-undergoes-surgery-to-repair-torn-knee-ligament-shares-images-654984">Mark Zuckerberg undergoes surgery for torn knee ligament repair, shares images</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/04/391061-mark-zuckerberg.png?imwidth=640" />

Meta Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg said on Friday (Nov 3) that he underwent surgery to repair a torn knee ligament sustained during a mixed martial arts session.&nbsp;Zuckerberg shared pictures on Instagram, which showed him in a hospital bed, with a knee bandaged and a brace. In the caption, he wrote: "Tore my ACL sparring and just got out of surgery to replace it."&nbsp;

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The Turkish foreign ministry on Saturday (Nov 4) said that it has decided to call its ambassador from Israel to Ankara for consultations. In a statement, the foreign ministry said the decision to recall Sakir Özkan Torunlar was taken due to Israel's refusal of a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and also its refusal for continuous and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid.

The Turkish foreign ministry on Saturday (Nov 4) said that it has decided to call its ambassador from Israel to Ankara for consultations. In a statement, the foreign ministry said the decision to recall Sakir Özkan Torunlar was taken due to Israel's refusal of a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and also its refusal for continuous and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid. In other news, an earthquake in Nepal has claimed lives of at least 157, the news agency Reuters reported on Saturday (Nov 4). Click on the headlines to read more: Israel-Hamas war: Turkey recalls ambassador from Israel on ceasefire refusal In a statement, the foreign ministry said the decision to recall Sakir Özkan Torunlar was taken due to Israel's refusal of a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and also its refusal for continuous and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid. "In view of the unfolding humanitarian tragedy in Gaza caused by the continuing attacks by Israel against civilians, and Israel’s refusal of calls for a ceasefire and continuous and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid, it was decided to recall our Ambassador in Tel Aviv, H.E. Mr. Şakir Özkan Torunlar, to Ankara for consultations," the statement said. Zelensky says Israel-Hamas war 'taking away focus' from Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his concerns on Saturday (Nov 4) saying that the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in West Asia has shifted the "focus" away from the ongoing war in Ukraine. During a press conference alongside EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, Zelensky said, "Of course, it's clear that the war in the Middle East, this conflict, is taking away the focus." Nepal earthquake: Rescuers dig through rubble with bare hands as deaths climb to 157 The death toll due to an earthquake in Nepal has climbed to 157, the news agency Reuters reported on Saturday (Nov 4). Rescue workers started digging through the rubble of collapsed houses with their bare hands to search for any survivors. The earthquake struck the Jajarkot region in the west on Friday night with a magnitude of 6.4, Nepal's National Seismological Centre said. India's EAM discusses 'two-state solution' in talks with Israeli counterpart Amid the escalating war between Israel and Hamas which has pushed the Gaza Strip into a deepening humanitarian crisis, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with his Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen on Saturday (Oct 4). Musk makes groundbreaking move in field of AI, set to launch first chatbot The artificial intelligence startup of Elon Musk, called xAI, is set to release its first AI model to a few select groups on Saturday (Oct 4), announced the billionaire and Tesla CEO on Friday (Oct 3). The step has been taken almost a year after OpenAI's ChatGPT was launched which changed the ways in which businesses worked across the world and pushed people toward adopting the generative AI technology. ODI WC 2023: Pakistan beat NZ by 21 runs via DLS, stay alive in semis race Pakistan survived a magnificent hundred by New Zealand star Rachin Ravindra and won the rain-affected ODI World Cup 2023 match on November 4 in Bengaluru by 21 runs to stay alive in the tournament. Chasing 402, Pakistan were 200/1 when the umpires decided to call off the match. Russell Brand accused of sexually assaulting extra on 2010 film set British comedian Russell Brand is embroiled in a legal battle after being accused of sexually assaulting an extra during the filming of the rom-com Arthur in July 2010. The civil lawsuit was filed in the US and marks the first time such allegations have appeared in a formal legal setting. Israel-Hamas war: In Jordan, US Secretary of State Blinken urges Israel to prevent civilian casualties US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is in Jordan, said on Saturday (Nov 4) that Israel must take every possible measure to prevent civilian casualties as its war with Hamas intensifies in the Gaza Strip. Addressing a press conference in Amman along with Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, Blinken said that Israel must also take every possible measure to protect civilians. Israeli airstrikes hit UN school serving as a shelter in Gaza, kills 15 A deadly airstrike by Israel on Gaza City hit a school, which was being run by the United Nations and was serving as a shelter, on Saturday (Nov 4). The attack took place at a time when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was set to hear demands of the Arabs for a ceasefire in a meeting to be held in Jordan. Mark Zuckerberg undergoes surgery for torn knee ligament repair, shares images Meta Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg said on Friday (Nov 3) that he underwent surgery to repair a torn knee ligament sustained during a mixed martial arts session. Zuckerberg shared pictures on Instagram, which showed him in a hospital bed, with a knee bandaged and a brace. In the caption, he wrote: "Tore my ACL sparring and just got out of surgery to replace it."

Top 10 news: Zelensky says Israel-Hamas war 'taking away focus' from Kyiv, Nepal earthquake kills 157 & more

A woman identified as Yocheved Lifschitz, who was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists on October 7 and released on Tuesday morning (Oct 24), held a press conference from the hospital where she was recovering after being freed, sayying she has been through hell.

In other news,&nbsp;several people went&nbsp;missing after a collision between two freight ships in the North Sea near the German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24).

The Chinese government on Tuesday (Oct 24) removed Li Shangfu from his position as defence minister and state councillor, state broadcaster CCTV reported.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/been-through-hell-survivor-recounts-her-horrific-experience-as-hamas-captive-650680">Israel-Hamas war: Survivor recounts horrific experience as captive in Gaza</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388681-untitled-design-2023-10-24t161841040.png?imwidth=1920" />

Yocheved Lifshitz&nbsp;had spent years getting medical supplies into Gaza. She stated that they&nbsp;entered Gaza Strip through a gate and that she suffered bruises because of the motorbike ride. She added that she was struggling to breathe.&nbsp;While speaking about the ordeal, Yocheved Lifschitz's daughter Sharone also helped her mother in recounting what all happened to her. She further confirmed that Hamas militants took her mother on a motorbike and also hit her with sticks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cargo-ships-collide-in-german-north-sea-several-people-missing-650714">Cargo ships collide in German North Sea, one sinks; several people missing</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388699-collage-maker-24-oct-2023-05-05-pm-9321.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Several people went&nbsp;missing after collision between two freight ships in North Sea near German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24).&nbsp;The collision between the two vessels, named Polesie and Verity, took place around 0300 GMT on Tuesday 12 nautical miles &nbsp;(22 kilometres) southwest of Heligoland, said German Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (CCME). The collision may have resulted in sinking of the Verity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-removes-defence-minister-shangfu-ousts-former-foreign-minister-from-cabinet-650718">China removes Defence Minister Shangfu, also ousts Qin Gang from cabinet</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388707-untitled-design.png?imwidth=640" />

The Chinese government on Tuesday (Oct 24) removed Li Shangfu from his position as defence minister and state councillor, state broadcaster CCTV reported. As per CCTV, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress also voted to remove former foreign minister Qin Gang from his position as state councillor. The broadcaster did not name a replacement for Li, neither&nbsp;did it mention the reason for his removal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hes-fit-and-well-kremlin-rejects-speculation-about-putins-health-650690">He's fit and well: Kremlin rejects rumours about Putin's ill-health</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388684-2023-10-24t093317z1lynxmpej9n0dgrtroptp4russia-putin.JPG?imwidth=640" />

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 24) rejected&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-found-lying-on-floor-after-allegedly-suffering-cardiac-arrest-reports-suggest-650538">speculation about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health&nbsp;</a>and said he is fit and well. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied claims that President Putin was using body doubles.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-how-much-is-lionel-messi-earning-in-mls-with-inter-miami-revealed-650749">Football: How much is Lionel Messi earning in MLS with Inter Miami? REVEALED</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384671-untitled-design-90.png?imwidth=640" />

Lionel Messi is earning more money at Inter Miami than the entire payroll of 25 clubs in the Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. Only four other teams in the league have payrolls bigger than the salary offered to Messi by David Beckham co-owned Inter Miami, according to the 2023 MLS players salary guide, as revealed by&nbsp;Goal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-men-charged-by-french-judge-over-deadly-attack-in-brussels-last-week-650599">Two men charged by French judge over deadly attack in Brussels last week</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388632-capture.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

A Paris judge on Monday (Oct 23) charged two men suspected of having links with the Islamist gunman who killed two Swedish football fans in Brussels last week, reported AFP.&nbsp;The men were charged with forming a terror group and getting involved in murder linked to a terror plot. France's anti-terror prosecutor's office said that both men were placed in detention.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-air-force-drops-leaflets-in-gaza-seeking-information-on-hostages-650774">Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388736-untitled-design-12.jpg?imwidth=640" />

The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information.&nbsp;When it launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas fighter captured more than 200 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-proposes-international-coalition-against-hamas-650752">French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388721-succession-2023-10-24t174325046.png?imwidth=640" />

French President Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday (Oct 24), called for the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria to be widened in order to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-police-officer-suspended-over-tricolour-row-during-pak-vs-afg-world-cup-match-650757">India: Police officer suspended over tricolour row during PAK vs AFG World Cup match</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388723-flag.jpg?imwidth=640" />

A sub-inspector of Tamil Nadu Police has been shunted out and a probe was initiated against him after he allegedly did not let spectators enter the Chennai cricket stadium with the Indian flag.&nbsp;The move comes after a video went viral showing the police officer barring the entry of a few cricket fans to the MA Chidambaram Stadium ahead of the Pakistan-Afghanistan World Cup match on Monday (Oct 23).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austria-several-people-hospitalised-after-using-fake-versions-of-diabetes-drug-650792">Austria: Several people hospitalised after using fake versions of diabetes drug</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388749-2023-10-24t092733z1lynxmpej9n0dcrtroptp4health-obesity-novo-nordisk-austria.JPG?imwidth=640" />

Several people in Austria were hospitalised after they used suspected fake versions of Novo Nordisk's diabetes drug Ozempic, the news agency reported on Tuesday (Oct 24) citing the country's health safety regulator BASG. On Monday, the BASG said that patients were reported to have suffered hypoglycaemia, seizures, and other serious side effects.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A woman identified as Yocheved Lifschitz, who was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists on October 7 and released on Tuesday morning (Oct 24), held a press conference from the hospital where she was recovering after being freed, sayying she has been through hell.

A woman identified as Yocheved Lifschitz, who was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists on October 7 and released on Tuesday morning (Oct 24), held a press conference from the hospital where she was recovering after being freed, sayying she has been through hell. In other news, several people went missing after a collision between two freight ships in the North Sea near the German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24). The Chinese government on Tuesday (Oct 24) removed Li Shangfu from his position as defence minister and state councillor, state broadcaster CCTV reported. Click on the headlines to read more: Israel-Hamas war: Survivor recounts horrific experience as captive in Gaza Yocheved Lifshitz had spent years getting medical supplies into Gaza. She stated that they entered Gaza Strip through a gate and that she suffered bruises because of the motorbike ride. She added that she was struggling to breathe. While speaking about the ordeal, Yocheved Lifschitz's daughter Sharone also helped her mother in recounting what all happened to her. She further confirmed that Hamas militants took her mother on a motorbike and also hit her with sticks. Cargo ships collide in German North Sea, one sinks; several people missing Several people went missing after collision between two freight ships in North Sea near German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24). The collision between the two vessels, named Polesie and Verity, took place around 0300 GMT on Tuesday 12 nautical miles (22 kilometres) southwest of Heligoland, said German Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (CCME). The collision may have resulted in sinking of the Verity. China removes Defence Minister Shangfu, also ousts Qin Gang from cabinet The Chinese government on Tuesday (Oct 24) removed Li Shangfu from his position as defence minister and state councillor, state broadcaster CCTV reported. As per CCTV, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress also voted to remove former foreign minister Qin Gang from his position as state councillor. The broadcaster did not name a replacement for Li, neither did it mention the reason for his removal. He's fit and well: Kremlin rejects rumours about Putin's ill-health The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 24) rejected speculation about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health and said he is fit and well. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied claims that President Putin was using body doubles. Football: How much is Lionel Messi earning in MLS with Inter Miami? REVEALED Lionel Messi is earning more money at Inter Miami than the entire payroll of 25 clubs in the Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. Only four other teams in the league have payrolls bigger than the salary offered to Messi by David Beckham co-owned Inter Miami, according to the 2023 MLS players salary guide, as revealed by Goal. Two men charged by French judge over deadly attack in Brussels last week A Paris judge on Monday (Oct 23) charged two men suspected of having links with the Islamist gunman who killed two Swedish football fans in Brussels last week, reported AFP. The men were charged with forming a terror group and getting involved in murder linked to a terror plot. France's anti-terror prosecutor's office said that both men were placed in detention. Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information. When it launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas fighter captured more than 200 people. French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas French President Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday (Oct 24), called for the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria to be widened in order to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel. India: Police officer suspended over tricolour row during PAK vs AFG World Cup match A sub-inspector of Tamil Nadu Police has been shunted out and a probe was initiated against him after he allegedly did not let spectators enter the Chennai cricket stadium with the Indian flag. The move comes after a video went viral showing the police officer barring the entry of a few cricket fans to the MA Chidambaram Stadium ahead of the Pakistan-Afghanistan World Cup match on Monday (Oct 23). Austria: Several people hospitalised after using fake versions of diabetes drug Several people in Austria were hospitalised after they used suspected fake versions of Novo Nordisk's diabetes drug Ozempic, the news agency reported on Tuesday (Oct 24) citing the country's health safety regulator BASG. On Monday, the BASG said that patients were reported to have suffered hypoglycaemia, seizures, and other serious side effects.

Top 10 world news: Israel woman recounts ordeal as Hamas captive, cargo ship collides in North Sea, & more

Former Pakistan prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, a one-time favourite and multiple-time rival of the country's powerful military, has arrived in Pakistan after a four-year self-imposed exile. In other news, in the early hours of Saturday (Oct 21), a pipe bomb detonated near the Israeli embassy in Nicosia, Cyprus, media reports said. There were no reported injuries and only minor damage. Four individuals were subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. On the other hand, the much-anticipated ISRO rocket Gaganyaan which was originally scheduled for 8:00 am, was rescheduled twice within an hour (to 8:30 and 8:45). At 8:45 a.m., as people and journalists at the spaceport looked skywards, the vehicle did not lift off.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/is-nawaz-sharifs-return-a-deal-with-pakistan-military-establishment-649672">Is ex-PM Nawaz Sharif's return a 'deal' with Pakistan military establishment?</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/21/388118-untitled-design-2023-10-21t180125981.png?imwidth=640" />

Nawaz Sharif's return to Pakistan comes at a time when the nation is being spearheaded by an interim prime minister with elections to be held early next year. With Imran Khan out of the way, Sharif's return after four years of self-imposed exile in London, should not be viewed without any implications for Pakistan's political future.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-delivers-a-saturday-space-science-thriller-gaganyaan-maiden-test-flight-tv-d1-successful-649529">ISRO's Gaganyaan maiden test flight 'TV-D1' successful</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/21/388037-untitled-design-2023-10-21t121842992.png?imwidth=640" />

It was a Saturday Science Thriller like no other! The&nbsp;much-anticipated ISRO rocket launch that was originally scheduled for 8:00 am, was rescheduled twice within an hour (to 8:30 and 8:45). At 8:45 am, as people and journalists at the spaceport looked skywards, the vehicle did not lift off. As the countdown timer was at minus five seconds, the computer had put the launch on hold, owing to an anomaly in engine ignition.&nbsp;Videos from the launchpad showed the rocket emitting red fumes, indicating that it was just moments away from launch.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosion-near-israeli-embassy-in-cyprus-leads-to-four-arrests-649706">Explosion near Israeli embassy in Cyprus leads to four arrests</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/21/388134-untitled-design-2023-10-21t192904949.png?imwidth=1920" />

In the early hours of Saturday (Oct 21), a pipe bomb detonated near the Israeli embassy in Nicosia, Cyprus, media reports said. There were no reported injuries and only minor damage. Four individuals were subsequently arrested in connection with the incident.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-marco-jansen-hits-bullseye-as-south-africa-crush-england-by-229-runs-in-mumbai-649719">World Cup 2023: Jansen hits bullseye as South Africa crush England by 229 runs</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/21/388146-untitled-design-2023-10-21t203146389.png?imwidth=640" />

South Africa seamer Marco Jansen had an outing to remember forever in Mumbai as he helped South Africa floor defending champions England by 229 runs at Wankhede in Mumbai. Registering his best ODI score of 75* off 42 balls alongside picking two wickets for 35 runs, the lanky all-rounder was the architect of a massive win for Proteas in the World Cup 2023 clash.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-cairo-peace-summit-palestinian-president-abbas-warns-of-any-attempts-to-displace-people-from-gaza-649661">At Cairo Peace Summit, Palestinian President Abbas warns of any attempts to displace people from Gaza</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/21/388112-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=1920" />

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Saturday (Oct 21) addressed the Cairo Peace Summit and warned of any attempts to displace people from the war-torn Gaza Strip, or any attempts to displace Palestinians from their homes or displacing them from Jerusalem or the West Bank. "...we will not accept displacement, and we will remain steadfast on our land no matter the challenges," President Abbas said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-antonio-guterres-urges-ceasefire-to-end-gazas-godawful-nightmare-649724">UN chief Antonio Guterres urges ceasefire to end Gaza's 'godawful nightmare'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/21/388147-succession-2023-10-21t205039907.png?imwidth=640" />

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres, on Saturday (Oct 21), urged for a "humanitarian ceasefire" in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas that has ravaged most parts of Gaza, demanding "action to end this godawful nightmare".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-takes-a-dig-at-greta-thunberg-for-her-post-showing-support-for-gaza-649694">Israel takes dig at Greta Thunberg over her post showing support for Palestinians</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/21/388129-succession-2023-10-21t185605275.png?imwidth=640" />

Climate activist Greta Thunberg, on Friday (Oct 20), took her social media account and voiced support for Palestinians after Israel intensified its strikes on Gaza in retaliation for Hamas assaults.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-trudeau-booed-over-israel-hamas-war-while-visiting-mosque-in-canada-649691">Video: Trudeau booed over Israel-Hamas war while visiting mosque in Canada</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/21/388130-trudeau.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in news again and not for right reason. The video of him visiting a mosque and getting booed by the assembled, and very angry crowd, is doing rounds on social media. The video has gone viral on a number of social media platforms.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/legendary-manchester-united-and-england-former-player-sir-bobby-charlton-passes-away-aged-86-649722">Legendary Manchester United and England player Sir Bobby Charlton passes away aged 86</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/21/388144-1-2023-10-21t203826112.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Legendary Manchester United former and England former player Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away at 86 on Saturday (Oct 21). The news comes as a big loss for the football family particularly for England and Manchester United with the legendary player winning multiple accolades with the club and country including the 1966 FIFA World Cup and 1968 European Cup. He was also a survivor of the 1958 Munich air disaster when a bulk of United players lost their lives in a tragic accident in Germany.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-hollywood-actors-urge-joe-biden-to-propose-ceasefire-in-gaza-and-israel-649552">Hollywood actors urge President Joe Biden to propose ceasefire in Gaza and Israel</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/21/388050-untitled-design-2023-10-21t125941979.jpg?imwidth=640" />

A group of influential actors, including Mark Ruffalo, Jessica Chastain, Cate Blanchett, Quinta Brunson, Rosario Dawson, Oscar Isaac, Joaquin Phoenix, Alyssa Milano, Jon Stewart, and many others, have penned an impassioned letter addressed to President Joe Biden, urging him to take swift action to secure an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Former Pakistan prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, a one-time favourite and multiple-time rival of the country's powerful military, has arrived in Pakistan after a four-year self-imposed exile.

Former Pakistan prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, a one-time favourite and multiple-time rival of the country's powerful military, has arrived in Pakistan after a four-year self-imposed exile. In other news, in the early hours of Saturday (Oct 21), a pipe bomb detonated near the Israeli embassy in Nicosia, Cyprus, media reports said. There were no reported injuries and only minor damage. Four individuals were subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. On the other hand, the much-anticipated ISRO rocket Gaganyaan which was originally scheduled for 8:00 am, was rescheduled twice within an hour (to 8:30 and 8:45). At 8:45 a.m., as people and journalists at the spaceport looked skywards, the vehicle did not lift off. Click on the headlines to read more: Is ex-PM Nawaz Sharif's return a 'deal' with Pakistan military establishment? Nawaz Sharif's return to Pakistan comes at a time when the nation is being spearheaded by an interim prime minister with elections to be held early next year. With Imran Khan out of the way, Sharif's return after four years of self-imposed exile in London, should not be viewed without any implications for Pakistan's political future. ISRO's Gaganyaan maiden test flight 'TV-D1' successful It was a Saturday Science Thriller like no other! The much-anticipated ISRO rocket launch that was originally scheduled for 8:00 am, was rescheduled twice within an hour (to 8:30 and 8:45). At 8:45 am, as people and journalists at the spaceport looked skywards, the vehicle did not lift off. As the countdown timer was at minus five seconds, the computer had put the launch on hold, owing to an anomaly in engine ignition. Videos from the launchpad showed the rocket emitting red fumes, indicating that it was just moments away from launch. Explosion near Israeli embassy in Cyprus leads to four arrests In the early hours of Saturday (Oct 21), a pipe bomb detonated near the Israeli embassy in Nicosia, Cyprus, media reports said. There were no reported injuries and only minor damage. Four individuals were subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. World Cup 2023: Jansen hits bullseye as South Africa crush England by 229 runs South Africa seamer Marco Jansen had an outing to remember forever in Mumbai as he helped South Africa floor defending champions England by 229 runs at Wankhede in Mumbai. Registering his best ODI score of 75* off 42 balls alongside picking two wickets for 35 runs, the lanky all-rounder was the architect of a massive win for Proteas in the World Cup 2023 clash. At Cairo Peace Summit, Palestinian President Abbas warns of any attempts to displace people from Gaza Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Saturday (Oct 21) addressed the Cairo Peace Summit and warned of any attempts to displace people from the war-torn Gaza Strip, or any attempts to displace Palestinians from their homes or displacing them from Jerusalem or the West Bank. "...we will not accept displacement, and we will remain steadfast on our land no matter the challenges," President Abbas said. UN chief Antonio Guterres urges ceasefire to end Gaza's 'godawful nightmare' United Nations chief Antonio Guterres, on Saturday (Oct 21), urged for a "humanitarian ceasefire" in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas that has ravaged most parts of Gaza, demanding "action to end this godawful nightmare". Israel takes dig at Greta Thunberg over her post showing support for Palestinians Climate activist Greta Thunberg, on Friday (Oct 20), took her social media account and voiced support for Palestinians after Israel intensified its strikes on Gaza in retaliation for Hamas assaults. Video: Trudeau booed over Israel-Hamas war while visiting mosque in Canada Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in news again and not for right reason. The video of him visiting a mosque and getting booed by the assembled, and very angry crowd, is doing rounds on social media. The video has gone viral on a number of social media platforms. Legendary Manchester United and England player Sir Bobby Charlton passes away aged 86 Legendary Manchester United former and England former player Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away at 86 on Saturday (Oct 21). The news comes as a big loss for the football family particularly for England and Manchester United with the legendary player winning multiple accolades with the club and country including the 1966 FIFA World Cup and 1968 European Cup. He was also a survivor of the 1958 Munich air disaster when a bulk of United players lost their lives in a tragic accident in Germany. Hollywood actors urge President Joe Biden to propose ceasefire in Gaza and Israel A group of influential actors, including Mark Ruffalo, Jessica Chastain, Cate Blanchett, Quinta Brunson, Rosario Dawson, Oscar Isaac, Joaquin Phoenix, Alyssa Milano, Jon Stewart, and many others, have penned an impassioned letter addressed to President Joe Biden, urging him to take swift action to secure an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Top 10 world news: Nawaz Sharif addresses rally in Pakistan, explosion near Israeli embassy in Cyprus, & more

After days of speculation, Bundesliga club Bayern Munich on Friday (Oct 20) announced that defender&nbsp;Noussair Mazraoui would not be suspended for making pro-Palestine comments over the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.&nbsp;

Bayern in a statement said they had "held a&nbsp;detailed and clarifying conversation" with the player, concerning his Instagram posts which led to "irritation and criticism".&nbsp;Bayern Chief Executive Jan-Christian Dreesen said the Moroccan player had assured that he rejected 'terror and war'.&nbsp;

"Mazraoui has credibly assured us that as a peace-loving person he resolutely rejects terror and war and he never meant to cause any irritation with his posts.&nbsp;FC Bayern condemns Hamas' attack on Israel," said&nbsp;Dreesen.&nbsp;

The club added that it "stands by Germany's Jewish community and by Israel's side; nothing justifies the murder of children and families".&nbsp;

Bayern also quoted Mazaroui as saying:&nbsp;"I condemn all terrorism and terrorist organisations."

<h2>El Ghazi and&nbsp;Atal suspended&nbsp;</h2>

While&nbsp;Mazaroui escaped without any suspension, some of his compatriots have had not the same luck. On Wednesday (Oct 18), another Bundesliga club&nbsp;FSV Mainz 05, suspended&nbsp;their newly signed player Anwar El Ghazi for his pro-Palestinian social media posts.

Mainz issued a statement wherein it said Anwar had taken a position that was unacceptable to the club.&nbsp;

“The decision comes as a result of a since-deleted social media post from the 28-year-old that appeared on Sunday evening. In the post, El Ghazi took a position on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East that was deemed unacceptable by the club," read the statement.&nbsp;

Similarly,&nbsp;Algerian footballer Youcef Atal, playing for Ligue 1 club Nice, was suspended for an anti-Jewish message on social media.&nbsp;

“Given the nature of the publication shared [by Atal], and its seriousness, the club has taken the decision to take immediate disciplinary action against the player, prior to any action that may be taken by sporting and legal authorities,” the Ligue 1 club said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-taxi-driver-from-jerusalem-speaks-to-wion-world-news-648112">Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Taxi driver from Jerusalem speaks to WION | World News</a>

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<h2>Salah issues statement</h2>

On Thursday (Oct 19), Liverpool star Mo Salah, arguably the biggest football face in the Arab world, issued a video statement where he implored world leaders to bring an end to the conflict.&nbsp;

"It is not always easy to speak in a time like this. There has been too much violence and too much heartbreak and brutality," Salah said in a video posted to his 62.7 million followers on Instagram.

"The escalations in recent weeks is unbearable to witness. All lives are sacred and must be protected. The massacres need to stop, families are being torn apart."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/egyptian-football-star-mohamed-salah-calls-for-end-of-massacres-amid-israel-hamas-conflict-648635">Also read |&nbsp;Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah calls for end to 'massacres' amid Israel-Hamas conflict</a>

More than 1,500 Israelis have died after&nbsp;Hamas - a terror outfit operating from the Gaza Strip - launched an ambush attack on Israel earlier this month. As a retaliatory move, Israel has been bombing specific terror locations in the Gaza Strip to eradicate Hamas out of existence. However, more than 2,750 Palestinians have lost their lives as collateral damage, according to the claims made by the&nbsp;health ministry in Gaza, controlled by Hamas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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After days of speculation, Bundesliga club Bayern Munich on Friday (Oct 20) announced that defender Noussair Mazraoui would not be suspended for making pro-Palestine comments over the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

After days of speculation, Bundesliga club Bayern Munich on Friday (Oct 20) announced that defender Noussair Mazraoui would not be suspended for making pro-Palestine comments over the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Bayern in a statement said they had "held a detailed and clarifying conversation" with the player, concerning his Instagram posts which led to "irritation and criticism". Bayern Chief Executive Jan-Christian Dreesen said the Moroccan player had assured that he rejected 'terror and war'. "Mazraoui has credibly assured us that as a peace-loving person he resolutely rejects terror and war and he never meant to cause any irritation with his posts. FC Bayern condemns Hamas' attack on Israel," said Dreesen. The club added that it "stands by Germany's Jewish community and by Israel's side; nothing justifies the murder of children and families". Bayern also quoted Mazaroui as saying: "I condemn all terrorism and terrorist organisations." El Ghazi and Atal suspended While Mazaroui escaped without any suspension, some of his compatriots have had not the same luck. On Wednesday (Oct 18), another Bundesliga club FSV Mainz 05, suspended their newly signed player Anwar El Ghazi for his pro-Palestinian social media posts. Mainz issued a statement wherein it said Anwar had taken a position that was unacceptable to the club. “The decision comes as a result of a since-deleted social media post from the 28-year-old that appeared on Sunday evening. In the post, El Ghazi took a position on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East that was deemed unacceptable by the club," read the statement. Similarly, Algerian footballer Youcef Atal, playing for Ligue 1 club Nice, was suspended for an anti-Jewish message on social media. “Given the nature of the publication shared [by Atal], and its seriousness, the club has taken the decision to take immediate disciplinary action against the player, prior to any action that may be taken by sporting and legal authorities,” the Ligue 1 club said in a statement. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Taxi driver from Jerusalem speaks to WION | World News × Salah issues statement On Thursday (Oct 19), Liverpool star Mo Salah, arguably the biggest football face in the Arab world, issued a video statement where he implored world leaders to bring an end to the conflict. "It is not always easy to speak in a time like this. There has been too much violence and too much heartbreak and brutality," Salah said in a video posted to his 62.7 million followers on Instagram. "The escalations in recent weeks is unbearable to witness. All lives are sacred and must be protected. The massacres need to stop, families are being torn apart." Also read | Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah calls for end to 'massacres' amid Israel-Hamas conflict More than 1,500 Israelis have died after Hamas - a terror outfit operating from the Gaza Strip - launched an ambush attack on Israel earlier this month. As a retaliatory move, Israel has been bombing specific terror locations in the Gaza Strip to eradicate Hamas out of existence. However, more than 2,750 Palestinians have lost their lives as collateral damage, according to the claims made by the health ministry in Gaza, controlled by Hamas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Football: Bayern player Mazraoui escapes suspension over pro-Palestine posts

It's day 2 of the war between Israel and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave of Gaza. The latest escalation of violence has become focal point of world diplomacy. Civilians on both sides of the conflict are living in fear as fighters clash. Almost the whole world has appealed both, Israel and Palestine for calm but it has not, at least till now, resulted in stoppage of fighting. There have been large number of casualties on both sides and hundreds more have been injured.

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-palestine-crisis-live-unsc-to-meet-as-death-toll-climbs-to-over-300-643864">Hamas vs Israel war LIVE: At least 10 Nepali students killed amid attacks</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384803-untitled-design-12.png?imwidth=1920" />

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is in a state of war following a surprise attack by Gaza militants on Saturday (Oct 7) morning.&nbsp;The attack involved the firing of several rockets and the infiltration by Hamas terrorists into Israel through various means, including land, sea, and air via paragliders. Israeli officials reported a death toll of at least 300 people, with thousands more wounded.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-how-the-violence-unfolded-after-palestinian-militant-group-attacked-israel-a-timeline-644159">Israel vs Hamas: How violence unfolded after militant group launched attack</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384797-wion-images-2023-10-08t194441846.png?imwidth=256" />

Palestinian military group Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel on Saturday (Oct 7) morning marking the deadliest day of violence in Israel since the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-killed-in-israel-and-gaza-after-hamas-launches-biggest-attack-in-decades-643830">Yom Kippur war 50 years ago</a>&nbsp;when Egyptian and Syrian forces launched an assault during the Jewish holiday in a bid to retrieve the territory Israel had taken during a brief conflict in 1967.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/policeman-in-egypt-kills-two-israeli-tourists-one-egyptian-in-alexandria-reports-644012">Policeman in Egypt kills 2 Israeli tourists, 1 Egyptian in Alexandria: Reports</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384724-wion-images-2023-10-08t154719576.png?imwidth=256" />

At least two Israeli tourists and one Egyptian were killed after an Egyptian policeman opened fire on Israeli tourists in the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, on Sunday (Oct 8), said Egypt’s interior ministry.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-who-is-hezbollah-and-why-is-it-raining-down-rockets-on-israel-supporting-hamas-644131">Explained | What is Hezbollah and why is it raining down rockets on Israel?</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384777-untitled-design-2023-10-08t185538779.png?imwidth=1920" />

It is not just Israel vs Hamas but also Israel vs Hezbollah. Why? Lebanon's Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group backed by Iran, has long been a significant player in the Middle East. Amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, Hezbollah, lending support to Hamas, is targeting Israeli military positions in the disputed Shebaa Farms area by raining down its rockets.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-students-in-haifa-give-update-on-hamas-vs-israel-situation-644070">Indian students stuck in Israel exercise caution, advised to remain ‘vigilant’</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384750-wion-images-2023-10-08t171731629.png?imwidth=1920" />

Indian students stuck in Israel amid the ongoing attacks by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched on Saturday (Oct 7) told WION that the situation in northern Israel was relatively peaceful. In light of the violence unfolding in Israel, the Indian embassies in Israel issued advisories for all its citizens to “remain vigilant”

<section>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bruno-mars-tel-aviv-concert-canceled-amid-escalating-conflict-between-hamas-and-israeli-forces-644025">Bruno Mars' Tel Aviv concert cancelled amid ongoing conflict post Hamas attack</a>
</section>

<section><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384720-untitled-design-2023-10-08t154507859.jpg?imwidth=640" /></section>

Bruno Mars' highly-anticipated concert scheduled for Saturday night in Tel Aviv, Israel, has been cancelled, as confirmed by concert organiser Live Nation Israel. The cancellation announcement was made through a text post on the company's verified Instagram account earlier in the day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-powerful-afghanistan-quake-makes-trucks-shake-like-cardboard-boxes-644172">Watch: Powerful Afghanistan quake makes trucks shake like cardboard boxes</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384806-afghanistan.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Powerful earthquake in Afghanistan have resulted in deaths of more than 2000 people, as per the Taliban regime. Another 9000 have been wounded. For those of us sitting hundreds of miles away from the region, the huge number would certainly be a cause of alarm. But probably nothing can make us experience the predicament of those who were actually in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/nushrratt-bharuccha-safely-returns-to-india-from-israel-amid-ongoing-war-watch-644048">Nushrratt Bharuccha safely returns to India from Israel amid ongoing war: Watch</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384728-untitled-design-2023-10-08t160047379.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Bollywood actress Nushrratt Bharuccha, who found herself stranded in Israel due to the ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Hamas terrorists, has safely made her way back home. The actress had travelled to the region to attend the Haifa International Film Festival when Hamas launched a "surprise attack" on Israel that resulted in hundreds of deaths and left thousands wounded.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-india-brave-initial-blues-to-stave-off-australia-challenge-win-by-6-wickets-644201">World Cup 2023: India stave off Australia challenge, win by 6 wickets</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384818-screenshot-2023-10-08-213111.png?imwidth=256" />

Battling initial hiccups and some tricky phases, India kickstarted their World Cup campaign against Australia with a seven-wicket win at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday (October 8) evening. While bowlers were the architects of the win, it was the pair of&nbsp;KL Rahul (97*) and Virat Kohli (85) that took India to the victory shores when the second innings performance looked like a repeat of the 2019 WC semifinal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cricketer-rashid-khan-vows-to-donate-all-odi-world-cup-match-fees-to-earthquake-victims-in-afghanistan-644001">Cricketer Rashid Khan vows to donate all ODI World Cup match fees to earthquake victims in Afghanistan</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384703-1-2023-10-08t144709923.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Afghanistan cricket team player Rashid Khan has vowed to donate all his match fees of the ongoing ODI World Cup in India to the earthquake victims in his homeland after the nation was struck with a devastating earthquake on Saturday (Oct 7). An earthquake measuring 6.3 magnitude occurred in the northwest of the city of Heart with Farah, and Badghis also falling victim to the devastation that has caused more than 2000 casualties. In a social media post on X, Rashid vowed to donate all the match fees while he will soon launch a fundraising campaign to help the victims.

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It's day 2 of the war between Israel and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave of Gaza. The latest escalation of violence has become focal point of world diplomacy. Civilians on both sides of the conflict are living in fear as fighters clash.

It's day 2 of the war between Israel and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave of Gaza. The latest escalation of violence has become focal point of world diplomacy. Civilians on both sides of the conflict are living in fear as fighters clash. Almost the whole world has appealed both, Israel and Palestine for calm but it has not, at least till now, resulted in stoppage of fighting. There have been large number of casualties on both sides and hundreds more have been injured. Click on the headlines to read more Hamas vs Israel war LIVE: At least 10 Nepali students killed amid attacks Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is in a state of war following a surprise attack by Gaza militants on Saturday (Oct 7) morning. The attack involved the firing of several rockets and the infiltration by Hamas terrorists into Israel through various means, including land, sea, and air via paragliders. Israeli officials reported a death toll of at least 300 people, with thousands more wounded. Israel vs Hamas: How violence unfolded after militant group launched attack Palestinian military group Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel on Saturday (Oct 7) morning marking the deadliest day of violence in Israel since the Yom Kippur war 50 years ago when Egyptian and Syrian forces launched an assault during the Jewish holiday in a bid to retrieve the territory Israel had taken during a brief conflict in 1967. Policeman in Egypt kills 2 Israeli tourists, 1 Egyptian in Alexandria: Reports At least two Israeli tourists and one Egyptian were killed after an Egyptian policeman opened fire on Israeli tourists in the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, on Sunday (Oct 8), said Egypt’s interior ministry. Explained | What is Hezbollah and why is it raining down rockets on Israel? It is not just Israel vs Hamas but also Israel vs Hezbollah. Why? Lebanon's Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group backed by Iran, has long been a significant player in the Middle East. Amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, Hezbollah, lending support to Hamas, is targeting Israeli military positions in the disputed Shebaa Farms area by raining down its rockets. Indian students stuck in Israel exercise caution, advised to remain ‘vigilant’ Indian students stuck in Israel amid the ongoing attacks by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched on Saturday (Oct 7) told WION that the situation in northern Israel was relatively peaceful. In light of the violence unfolding in Israel, the Indian embassies in Israel issued advisories for all its citizens to “remain vigilant” Bruno Mars' Tel Aviv concert cancelled amid ongoing conflict post Hamas attack Bruno Mars' highly-anticipated concert scheduled for Saturday night in Tel Aviv, Israel, has been cancelled, as confirmed by concert organiser Live Nation Israel. The cancellation announcement was made through a text post on the company's verified Instagram account earlier in the day. Watch: Powerful Afghanistan quake makes trucks shake like cardboard boxes Powerful earthquake in Afghanistan have resulted in deaths of more than 2000 people, as per the Taliban regime. Another 9000 have been wounded. For those of us sitting hundreds of miles away from the region, the huge number would certainly be a cause of alarm. But probably nothing can make us experience the predicament of those who were actually in the country. Nushrratt Bharuccha safely returns to India from Israel amid ongoing war: Watch Bollywood actress Nushrratt Bharuccha, who found herself stranded in Israel due to the ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Hamas terrorists, has safely made her way back home. The actress had travelled to the region to attend the Haifa International Film Festival when Hamas launched a "surprise attack" on Israel that resulted in hundreds of deaths and left thousands wounded. World Cup 2023: India stave off Australia challenge, win by 6 wickets Battling initial hiccups and some tricky phases, India kickstarted their World Cup campaign against Australia with a seven-wicket win at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday (October 8) evening. While bowlers were the architects of the win, it was the pair of KL Rahul (97*) and Virat Kohli (85) that took India to the victory shores when the second innings performance looked like a repeat of the 2019 WC semifinal. Cricketer Rashid Khan vows to donate all ODI World Cup match fees to earthquake victims in Afghanistan Afghanistan cricket team player Rashid Khan has vowed to donate all his match fees of the ongoing ODI World Cup in India to the earthquake victims in his homeland after the nation was struck with a devastating earthquake on Saturday (Oct 7). An earthquake measuring 6.3 magnitude occurred in the northwest of the city of Heart with Farah, and Badghis also falling victim to the devastation that has caused more than 2000 casualties. In a social media post on X, Rashid vowed to donate all the match fees while he will soon launch a fundraising campaign to help the victims.

Top 10 world news: Israeli death toll crosses 600 in war with Hamas, India beat Australia by 6 wickets, & more

Hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7), prompting sirens to wail across Israel's southern and central regions. This highlights escalating tensions in the region and is a cause for concern. In other news, local officials in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region said two people were killed on Saturday (Oct 7) in a village after shelling by Russian forces. Meanwhile, the governor of Russia’s border Belgorod region, said that one civilian had been killed in the village of Urazovo as a result of Ukrainian shelling.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-palestine-crisis-live-hamas-releases-video-showing-terrorists-breaching-gate-of-israeli-community-643613">LIVE: Nearly 300 killed, thousands injured in Israel, Gaza amid Hamas attack</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/07/384571-untitled-design-11.png?imwidth=1920" />

Following Hamas' declaration of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood aimed at Israel, the Gaza Strip witnessed Israeli airstrikes. The besieged enclave reported launching thousands of rockets towards Israel, resulting in multiple casualties. Israeli military radio also disclosed that Palestinian fighters from Gaza had breached Israel's borders.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-condemn-hamas-surprise-attack-from-gaza-express-solidarity-with-israel-643706">Western countries condemn Hamas' attack, express solidarity with Israel</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/07/384555-wion-images-2023-10-07t163817577.png?imwidth=256" />

Palestinian militants have started a “war” on Israel, said the country’s defence minister after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7). This has led several, mostly Western countries, to condemn the attack by Hamas’ armed wing which said that it launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-people-killed-in-ukraines-zaporizhzhia-after-russian-shelling-643789">At least two people killed in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia after Russian shelling</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/07/384587-wion-images-2023-10-07t202754957.png?imwidth=640" />

Local officials in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region said two people were killed on Saturday (Oct 7) in a village after shelling by Russian forces. Meanwhile, the governor of Russia’s border Belgorod region, said that one civilian had been killed in the village of Urazovo as a result of Ukrainian shelling.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aiden-markram-hits-fastest-world-cup-ton-as-south-africa-register-highest-total-in-tournaments-history-643747">Markram hits fastest CWC ton as Proteas hammer Sri Lanka with historic score</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/07/384574-untitled-design-89.png?imwidth=640" />

A flurry of Cricket World Cup records went down the drain as South Africa posted 428 for five – the highest team total in the tournament’s history. Alongside this, Aiden Markram also recorded the fastest hundred by a batter in just 49 balls in CWC.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-at-war-and-we-will-win-it-says-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-as-hamas-launches-surprise-attack-643737">'We are at war and we will win it', says Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu as Hamas launches surprise attack</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/07/384570-succession-2023-10-07t174017287.png?imwidth=1920" />

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Saturday (Oct 7), said the country was 'at war' and swore fierce counterattack after ordering an extensive mobilisation of the army reserve.&nbsp;He further warned that the enemy will have to "pay a price the type of which it has never known" for their actions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/magnitude-62-earthquake-hits-western-afghanistan-aftershock-follows-643601">At least 14 dead, 78 injured as 6.2 magnitude earthquake hits Afghanistan</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/17/360091-succession-60.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

A magnitude 6.3 earthquake hit western Afghanistan, on Saturday (Oct 7), claiming lives of a least 14 people and wounding 78, said an official, predicting the toll could rise amid reports of people buried under collapsed buildings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-embassy-in-israel-issues-advisory-for-citizens-after-hamas-launches-surprise-attack-643750">Indian Embassy in Israel issues advisory for citizens after Hamas launches surprise attack</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/07/384575-succession-2023-10-07t182701809.png?imwidth=640" />

The Indian Embassy on Saturday (Oct 7) issued an advisory asking all its nationals to “remain vigilant” and “observe safety protocols” after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel creating a war-like situation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/diplomatic-tit-for-tat-us-expels-russian-embassy-officials-after-similar-move-by-moscow-643573">Diplomatic tit-for-tat: US expels Russian embassy officials</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/01/24/179863-pjimage.jpg?imwidth=640" />

In a diplomatic tit-for-tat move, the United States announced on Friday (Oct 6), that it had expelled two Russian embassy officials from the country. This move came in direct response to Russia's prior expulsion of two US diplomats from the American embassy in Moscow. The decision to expel Russian embassy officials is part of a broader pattern of diplomatic tension and strained relations between the two countries against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-assassination-threat-demands-for-bishnois-release-in-email-triggers-heightened-security-report-643585">Threat to kill PM Modi, demand for Bishnoi’s release triggers security alarm</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380266-succession-2023-09-17t170418113.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

India's central security agency has received an email threatening to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi and blow up the Narendra Modi stadium in Gujarat's Ahmedabad besides the sender demanding&nbsp;Rs 500 crore and the release of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, said reports quoting NIA officials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/raging-wildfires-in-indonesia-affect-air-quality-in-singapore-643779">Raging wildfires in Indonesia affect air quality in Singapore</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/07/384584-indonesia-wildfire.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Wildfires in Indonesia have resulted in drop in air quality in neighbouring Singapore, revealed official readings. At 0600 GMT (2 pm local time) on Saturday (Oct 7), the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index in eastern and central Singapore was above 100. When the index crosses this mark, people are advised to reduce strenuous outdoor activities.

&nbsp;

Hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7), prompting sirens to wail across Israel's southern and central regions.

Hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7), prompting sirens to wail across Israel's southern and central regions. This highlights escalating tensions in the region and is a cause for concern. In other news, local officials in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region said two people were killed on Saturday (Oct 7) in a village after shelling by Russian forces. Meanwhile, the governor of Russia’s border Belgorod region, said that one civilian had been killed in the village of Urazovo as a result of Ukrainian shelling. Click on the headlines to read more: LIVE: Nearly 300 killed, thousands injured in Israel, Gaza amid Hamas attack Following Hamas' declaration of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood aimed at Israel, the Gaza Strip witnessed Israeli airstrikes. The besieged enclave reported launching thousands of rockets towards Israel, resulting in multiple casualties. Israeli military radio also disclosed that Palestinian fighters from Gaza had breached Israel's borders. Western countries condemn Hamas' attack, express solidarity with Israel Palestinian militants have started a “war” on Israel, said the country’s defence minister after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7). This has led several, mostly Western countries, to condemn the attack by Hamas’ armed wing which said that it launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.” At least two people killed in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia after Russian shelling Local officials in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region said two people were killed on Saturday (Oct 7) in a village after shelling by Russian forces. Meanwhile, the governor of Russia’s border Belgorod region, said that one civilian had been killed in the village of Urazovo as a result of Ukrainian shelling. Markram hits fastest CWC ton as Proteas hammer Sri Lanka with historic score A flurry of Cricket World Cup records went down the drain as South Africa posted 428 for five – the highest team total in the tournament’s history. Alongside this, Aiden Markram also recorded the fastest hundred by a batter in just 49 balls in CWC. 'We are at war and we will win it', says Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu as Hamas launches surprise attack Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Saturday (Oct 7), said the country was 'at war' and swore fierce counterattack after ordering an extensive mobilisation of the army reserve. He further warned that the enemy will have to "pay a price the type of which it has never known" for their actions. At least 14 dead, 78 injured as 6.2 magnitude earthquake hits Afghanistan A magnitude 6.3 earthquake hit western Afghanistan, on Saturday (Oct 7), claiming lives of a least 14 people and wounding 78, said an official, predicting the toll could rise amid reports of people buried under collapsed buildings. Indian Embassy in Israel issues advisory for citizens after Hamas launches surprise attack The Indian Embassy on Saturday (Oct 7) issued an advisory asking all its nationals to “remain vigilant” and “observe safety protocols” after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel creating a war-like situation. Diplomatic tit-for-tat: US expels Russian embassy officials In a diplomatic tit-for-tat move, the United States announced on Friday (Oct 6), that it had expelled two Russian embassy officials from the country. This move came in direct response to Russia's prior expulsion of two US diplomats from the American embassy in Moscow. The decision to expel Russian embassy officials is part of a broader pattern of diplomatic tension and strained relations between the two countries against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. Threat to kill PM Modi, demand for Bishnoi’s release triggers security alarm India's central security agency has received an email threatening to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi and blow up the Narendra Modi stadium in Gujarat's Ahmedabad besides the sender demanding Rs 500 crore and the release of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, said reports quoting NIA officials. Raging wildfires in Indonesia affect air quality in Singapore Wildfires in Indonesia have resulted in drop in air quality in neighbouring Singapore, revealed official readings. At 0600 GMT (2 pm local time) on Saturday (Oct 7), the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index in eastern and central Singapore was above 100. When the index crosses this mark, people are advised to reduce strenuous outdoor activities.

Top 10 world news: Hamas launches attack on Israel, Russian shelling kills 2 in Ukrainian village, & more

The Ukrainian prosecutor general said at least 49 people were killed, including a six-year-old boy, in a Russian strike on Thursday (Oct 5) in eastern Ukraine. &nbsp;In other news, Russia has signed a deal with the breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia to set up a naval base on the Black Sea coast, its leader announced Thursday (Oct 5). The move comes as Moscow pulls out its Black Sea fleet from Crimea, likely because of increased missile and drone attacks from Ukraine.

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-alleges-brutal-russian-crime-in-ukraine-after-at-least-48-killed-in-strike-642980">Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after 49 killed in strike</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/05/384086-russian-military-strike-in-the-village-of-hroza.png?imwidth=1920" />

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said&nbsp;on the messaging app Telegram that Russia targeted a grocery store, describing the attack as a "brutal Russian crime".&nbsp;Zelensky said the strike had slammed into the Kupiansk district, which borders Russia. In the war-battered region, Russian forces have been pushing to recapture territory they lost last year to Ukrainian troops.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-set-up-naval-base-in-breakaway-georgian-region-of-abkhazia-642924">Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/05/384048-gugutiantkari.png?imwidth=256" />

Aslan Bzhania, the leader of the separatist region, said that an agreement had been signed for a permanent naval base in the Ochamchira region. "We have signed an agreement, and in the near future there will be a permanent base of the Russian Navy in the Ochamchira district," Bzhania was quoted as saying by Izvestiya newspaper. "This is all aimed at increasing the level of defence capability of both Russia and Abkhazia, and this kind of interaction will continue," he said, adding, "There are also things I can't talk about."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-prize-in-literature-norwegian-author-jon-fosse-awarded-for-giving-voice-to-the-unsayable-642914">Nobel Prize in Literature: Jon Fosse wins for giving 'voice to unsayable'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/05/384049-wion-images-2023-10-05t165142790.png?imwidth=256" />

The Nobel Prize in Literature 2023 has been awarded to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jon-fosse-norwegian-author-dramatist-awarded-with-2023-nobel-prize-in-literature-642943">Norwegian author Jon Fosse</a>&nbsp;“for his innovative plays and prose which give voice to the unsayable,” said the award-giving body, on Thursday (Oct 5). The playwright and novelist told Reuters that the prestigious award for literature is both overwhelming and scary.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-justin-trudeaus-unprofessional-behaviour-in-parliament-draws-widespread-criticism-online-642993">Trudeau's 'unprofessional' behaviour in Parliament draws widespread criticism</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/05/384093-succession-2023-10-05t193031252.png?imwidth=640" />

Days after drawing widespread condemnation for the recognition of a Nazi veteran in Parliament, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau yet again sparked controversy and received backlash on social media after his video of winking at newly appointed Speaker Greg Fergus and biting his tongue went viral.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikkim-floods-dalai-lama-expresses-grief-as-14-dead-102-missing-over-3000-stranded-in-flash-floods-642752">Sikkim floods: Dalai Lama expresses grief following devastation</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/05/383945-new-wion-2023-10-05t095011118.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has expressed grief over the tragedy that has befallen the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim. Latest tolls show that the flash floods have claimed the lives of 14 people, while 102 people remain missing. As per reports, over 3,000 tourists are feared to be stranded in different parts of the state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-new-zealand-outplay-reigning-champions-england-win-by-9-wickets-643017">World Cup: New Zealand outplay reigning champions England, win by 9 wickets</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/05/384106-m.png?imwidth=640" />

New Zealand romped to a nine-wicket win in their opening contest of the World Cup against reigning champions England, courtesy of heroic hundreds from Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra. Playing under the lights at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the Kiwis registered a statement victory which may have brushed aside some of the bitter memories of the 2019 WC final.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-xl-bully-breed-dog-attacks-toddler-outside-london-hotel-643010">UK: XL bully breed dog attacks toddler outside London hotel</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/05/384100-bullyxl1694784504841.jpg?imwidth=640" />

A one-year-old toddler was attacked by an XL bully breed dog outside a London hotel on Monday (Oct 2). The incident occurred near the Hilton Hotel on Catherine Grove in Greenwich, after which the boy was rushed to a hospital.&nbsp;An eyewitness described the dog as a 'large American bully type' and warned parents regarding this breed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-60-people-killed-after-drone-attack-on-syria-military-academy-war-monitor-643007">More than 60 people killed after drone attack on Syria military academy: War monitor</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/05/384097-wion-images-2023-10-05t194737167.png?imwidth=1920" />

More than 60 people were killed on Thursday (Oct 5) after a drone attack on a military academy in Syria’s Homs, according to the Britain-based war monitor. This comes after the Syrian defence ministry, in a statement said a drone attack on a military college during a graduation ceremony has left civilians and military personnel dead and wounded dozens more people.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-is-sikkim-flash-floods-a-result-of-cloud-burst-or-glacial-lake-outburst-642897">Explained | Is Sikkim flash flood not caused by cloud burst but glacial lake outburst?</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/05/384036-glof2.png?imwidth=640" />

The flash floods triggered by glacial lake burst has left a trail of destruction in India’s northeastern Sikkim state. More than 25,000 people are affected while 14 people are dead, with at least 100 people, including 22 army men, still missing.&nbsp;The Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim — a glacial lake situated in the state’s northwest at 17,000 feet — burst, unleashing a flood of water that eventually rose the water levels of Teesta River to alarming levels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-bjp-leaders-hold-prayer-meeting-at-rajghat-to-liberate-people-from-clutches-of-corrupt-aap-govt-642960">Delhi BJP leaders hold prayer meeting at Rajghat to 'liberate' people from clutches of 'corrupt' AAP govt</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/05/384072-succession-2023-10-05t173249893.png?imwidth=640" />&nbsp;The Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, on Thursday (Oct 5), flocked to Rajghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, and held a prayer meeting for the "liberation" of people from the "corrupt" AAP government in the city.&nbsp;Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva stated that their party's struggle to liberate people from the clutches of the "corrupt" AAP government headed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will continue.

The Ukrainian prosecutor general said at least 49 people were killed, including a six-year-old boy, in a Russian strike on Thursday (Oct 5) in eastern Ukraine. In other news, Russia has signed a deal with the breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia to set up a naval base on the Black Sea coast, its leader announced Thursday (Oct 5).

The Ukrainian prosecutor general said at least 49 people were killed, including a six-year-old boy, in a Russian strike on Thursday (Oct 5) in eastern Ukraine. In other news, Russia has signed a deal with the breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia to set up a naval base on the Black Sea coast, its leader announced Thursday (Oct 5). The move comes as Moscow pulls out its Black Sea fleet from Crimea, likely because of increased missile and drone attacks from Ukraine. Click on the headlines to read more Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after 49 killed in strike Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on the messaging app Telegram that Russia targeted a grocery store, describing the attack as a "brutal Russian crime". Zelensky said the strike had slammed into the Kupiansk district, which borders Russia. In the war-battered region, Russian forces have been pushing to recapture territory they lost last year to Ukrainian troops. Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia Aslan Bzhania, the leader of the separatist region, said that an agreement had been signed for a permanent naval base in the Ochamchira region. "We have signed an agreement, and in the near future there will be a permanent base of the Russian Navy in the Ochamchira district," Bzhania was quoted as saying by Izvestiya newspaper. "This is all aimed at increasing the level of defence capability of both Russia and Abkhazia, and this kind of interaction will continue," he said, adding, "There are also things I can't talk about." Nobel Prize in Literature: Jon Fosse wins for giving 'voice to unsayable' The Nobel Prize in Literature 2023 has been awarded to a Norwegian author Jon Fosse “for his innovative plays and prose which give voice to the unsayable,” said the award-giving body, on Thursday (Oct 5). The playwright and novelist told Reuters that the prestigious award for literature is both overwhelming and scary. Trudeau's 'unprofessional' behaviour in Parliament draws widespread criticism Days after drawing widespread condemnation for the recognition of a Nazi veteran in Parliament, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau yet again sparked controversy and received backlash on social media after his video of winking at newly appointed Speaker Greg Fergus and biting his tongue went viral. Sikkim floods: Dalai Lama expresses grief following devastation Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has expressed grief over the tragedy that has befallen the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim. Latest tolls show that the flash floods have claimed the lives of 14 people, while 102 people remain missing. As per reports, over 3,000 tourists are feared to be stranded in different parts of the state. World Cup: New Zealand outplay reigning champions England, win by 9 wickets New Zealand romped to a nine-wicket win in their opening contest of the World Cup against reigning champions England, courtesy of heroic hundreds from Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra. Playing under the lights at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the Kiwis registered a statement victory which may have brushed aside some of the bitter memories of the 2019 WC final. UK: XL bully breed dog attacks toddler outside London hotel A one-year-old toddler was attacked by an XL bully breed dog outside a London hotel on Monday (Oct 2). The incident occurred near the Hilton Hotel on Catherine Grove in Greenwich, after which the boy was rushed to a hospital. An eyewitness described the dog as a 'large American bully type' and warned parents regarding this breed. More than 60 people killed after drone attack on Syria military academy: War monitor More than 60 people were killed on Thursday (Oct 5) after a drone attack on a military academy in Syria’s Homs, according to the Britain-based war monitor. This comes after the Syrian defence ministry, in a statement said a drone attack on a military college during a graduation ceremony has left civilians and military personnel dead and wounded dozens more people. Explained | Is Sikkim flash flood not caused by cloud burst but glacial lake outburst? The flash floods triggered by glacial lake burst has left a trail of destruction in India’s northeastern Sikkim state. More than 25,000 people are affected while 14 people are dead, with at least 100 people, including 22 army men, still missing. The Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim — a glacial lake situated in the state’s northwest at 17,000 feet — burst, unleashing a flood of water that eventually rose the water levels of Teesta River to alarming levels. Delhi BJP leaders hold prayer meeting at Rajghat to 'liberate' people from clutches of 'corrupt' AAP govt The Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, on Thursday (Oct 5), flocked to Rajghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, and held a prayer meeting for the "liberation" of people from the "corrupt" AAP government in the city. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva stated that their party's struggle to liberate people from the clutches of the "corrupt" AAP government headed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will continue.

Top 10 world news: Zelensky alleges 'Russian crime' in Ukraine, author Jon Fosse wins Nobel Prize, and more

Typhoon Koinu is heading towards southern Taiwan on Wednesday (Oct 10), bringing with it strong winds and heavy rain, which caused the cancellation of more than 100 flights as well as the closure of work and educational institutions.

According to the transport ministry, 87 domestic flights and 25 international flights were cancelled by Taiwanese airlines.

<h2>Where Koinu will make landfall</h2>

According to Tropical Storm Risk, Koinu is predicted to make landfall on Taiwan's southeast coast on Thursday (Oct 11) morning close to the city of Taitung as a category three typhoon, but then weaken as it reaches the island's southern point and enters the Taiwan Strait.

The heaviest rain will fall along mountainous and sparsely populated sections of Pingtung county in the south and the east coast counties of Taitung and Hualien, but the typhoon will also have an impact on Kaohsiung, a significant southern port city.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-member-states-reach-preliminary-deal-on-how-to-deal-with-migrants-642554">Also read:&nbsp;EU member states reach preliminary deal on how to deal with migrants</a>

Fishermen in Taitung secured their boats in port as the waves around Taiwan's east coast gradually got bigger.

"We are worried that the rain and wind will be very strong when the typhoon makes landfall, so from our end, we will strengthen typhoon prevention, and we hope residents stay alert and be careful," said Chen Chia-chen from Taiwan's Ocean Affairs Council, speaking in Taitung.

Kaohsiung and its neighbouring city of Tainan, announced that they will call off work and school from 6pm (1000 GMT) on Wednesday and continuing all day on Thursday.

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, experienced squally rain showers, although no major damage was anticipated. Schools and offices remained open as usual.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/uk-based-start-up-developed-ai-powered-grill-that-can-cook-perfectly-in-seconds-642536">Also read:&nbsp;UK-based startup develops AI-powered grill that can cook perfectly in seconds</a>

The typhoon will move from Taiwan to southern China's Guangdong and Fujian provinces, then on to Hong Kong, where it is forecast to continue to weaken until it becomes a tropical storm.

Hong Kong's Weather Observatory said Koinu will enter within 800 km (500 miles) of the financial hub on Wednesday afternoon. On Wednesday night, the observatory will give the 1 typhoon signal.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Typhoon Koinu is heading towards southern Taiwan on Wednesday (Oct 10), bringing with it strong winds and heavy rain, which caused the cancellation of more than 100 flights as well as the closure of work and educational institutions.

Typhoon Koinu is heading towards southern Taiwan on Wednesday (Oct 10), bringing with it strong winds and heavy rain, which caused the cancellation of more than 100 flights as well as the closure of work and educational institutions. According to the transport ministry, 87 domestic flights and 25 international flights were cancelled by Taiwanese airlines. Where Koinu will make landfall According to Tropical Storm Risk, Koinu is predicted to make landfall on Taiwan's southeast coast on Thursday (Oct 11) morning close to the city of Taitung as a category three typhoon, but then weaken as it reaches the island's southern point and enters the Taiwan Strait. The heaviest rain will fall along mountainous and sparsely populated sections of Pingtung county in the south and the east coast counties of Taitung and Hualien, but the typhoon will also have an impact on Kaohsiung, a significant southern port city. Also read: EU member states reach preliminary deal on how to deal with migrants Fishermen in Taitung secured their boats in port as the waves around Taiwan's east coast gradually got bigger. "We are worried that the rain and wind will be very strong when the typhoon makes landfall, so from our end, we will strengthen typhoon prevention, and we hope residents stay alert and be careful," said Chen Chia-chen from Taiwan's Ocean Affairs Council, speaking in Taitung. Kaohsiung and its neighbouring city of Tainan, announced that they will call off work and school from 6pm (1000 GMT) on Wednesday and continuing all day on Thursday. Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, experienced squally rain showers, although no major damage was anticipated. Schools and offices remained open as usual. Also read: UK-based startup develops AI-powered grill that can cook perfectly in seconds The typhoon will move from Taiwan to southern China's Guangdong and Fujian provinces, then on to Hong Kong, where it is forecast to continue to weaken until it becomes a tropical storm. Hong Kong's Weather Observatory said Koinu will enter within 800 km (500 miles) of the financial hub on Wednesday afternoon. On Wednesday night, the observatory will give the 1 typhoon signal. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Over 100 flights cancelled as typhoon Koinu heads toward southern Taiwan

The Armenian government on Thursday (Sep 28) announced more than 65,000 Armenians had fled the conflict-ridden zone of Nagorno-Karabakh for Yerevan after Azerbaijan recaptured the territory last week. In another news, ahead of the hotly anticipated 2024 US presidential elections as well as the general elections in India, X (formerly known as Twitter) has fired its election team working to prevent disruptions during the polls.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-65000-armenians-flee-nagorno-karabakh-after-azerbaijans-victory-640586">Over 65,000 Armenians flee Nagorno Karabakh after Azerbaijan's victory</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/24/381707-untitled-design-2023-09-24t182235255.png?imwidth=1920" />

Armenian government spokeswoman, Nazeli Baghdasaryan in a statement said,&nbsp;"65,036 forcefully displaced persons crossed into Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh". "The state is providing suitable housing to all those who do not have a predetermined place of residence," she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yeah-theyre-gone-musk-fires-election-integrity-team-ahead-of-2024-election-season-640609">'They’re gone...': Musk fires election integrity team ahead of 2024 elections</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/31/376584-new-wion-14.jpg?imwidth=256" />

Former X CEO Elon Musk took to the platform and confirmed that the 'election integrity' team was 'gone'. Responding to a post that said X had reportedly cut half of its team, Musk said:&nbsp;“Oh you mean the ‘Election Integrity’ Team that was undermining election integrity? Yeah, they’re gone.” According to a&nbsp;Guardian&nbsp;report, a number of staff members working out of the Dublin office, including Aaron Rodericks, the co-lead of the election disinformation team have left the company.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/travis-king-us-soldier-expelled-from-north-korea-returns-to-texas-640520">Travis King: US soldier expelled from North Korea returns to Texas</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/28/382557-the-battle-for-kyiv-2023-09-28t143315776.jpg?imwidth=256" />

US&nbsp;Army Private Travis King has returned to a US&nbsp;military facility in Texas following his expulsion from North Korea, reported CNN. After his daring crossing of the heavily fortified border two months ago, King arrived at Kelly Field on a US&nbsp;military flight on Thursday (Sept 28).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/top-chinese-scientist-disputes-indias-chandrayaan-3-landing-on-moons-south-pole-640439">Chinese scientist says India’s Chandrayaan-3 didn't land on Moon’s south pole</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/28/382502-chandrayaan.jpg?imwidth=640" />

A top Chinese scientist has claimed that India’s Chandrayaan-3, the country’s lunar mission, didn’t land on the Moon’s south pole, disputing New Delhi’s historic achievement.&nbsp;The startling claim comes at a time when Indian scientists are trying to revive the Vikram lander and Pragyaan rover from hibernation after the two-week frosty lunar night.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-processes-1-million-visas-to-indian-in-2023-garcetti-says-more-to-come-640571">US processes 1 million visas to Indians in 2023, Garcetti says more to come</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/25/354285-untitled-design-2023-05-25t155034416.png?imwidth=640" />

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti informed on Thursday (Sep 28) that the country's embassy and other consulates had processed a million visa applications this year.&nbsp;According to an official release from the US Embassy in India, the mission has already surpassed the total number of cases that were processed in 2022. It added that&nbsp;almost 20 per cent more applications were being processed compared to&nbsp;pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-ashwin-replaces-axar-patel-in-indias-final-15-for-world-cup-2023-640615">Ravi Ashwin replaces Axar Patel in India's final 15 for World Cup 2023</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/28/382607-untitled-design-2023-09-28t195027228.png?imwidth=640" />

India dealt with a blow ahead of the commencement of ODI World Cup 2023 as their spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel got ruled out, while veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin is included in his place in the final 15. Following the latest scans, Axar needs approximately three weeks to completely recover from the quadriceps strain he sustained during the Asia Cup 2023, meaning he would have to sit out for at least the first half of the tournament had he been picked.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/azerbaijan-arrests-top-karabakh-leader-amid-ongoing-hunt-for-war-crime-suspects-640485">Separatist state Nagorno-Karabakh will cease to exist next year, declares top leader</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/28/382538-untitled-design-67.png?imwidth=1920" />

A separatist leader from&nbsp;Nagorno-Karabakh said Thursday (Sep 28)&nbsp;that the breakaway region will cease&nbsp;to exist from January 1, 2024, as Azeri authorities plan to annex the region in its entirety.&nbsp;"Dissolve all state institutions and organisations under their departmental subordination by January 1, 2024, and the Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) ceases to exist," said the decree, which was issued as tens of thousands of ethnic Armenians fled in the wake of Azerbaijan's assault&nbsp;last&nbsp;week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hackers-claiming-to-have-indian-allegiances-target-canadian-military-website-640549">Hackers claiming to have Indian allegiance target Canadian military website</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/28/382533-oc4y6i2qe5mhnlscorfakjtvia.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Amid the ongoing bitterness between India and Canada over claims made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, hackers calling themselves the Indian Cyber Force have claimed to have targeted&nbsp;the Canadian Armed Forces' official website.&nbsp;The group which does not have any formal links to New Delhi claimed on Telegram that it had taken down the&nbsp;www.forces.ca&nbsp;website. One of the messages shared showed a screenshot of an error page with the message "#f---Canada".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-within-3-days-twin-fire-accidents-hit-taiwanese-and-japanese-factories-640602">Tamil Nadu: Within 3 days, twin fire accidents hit Taiwanese and Japanese factories&nbsp;</a>\

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/28/382597-new-wion-2023-09-28t185953879.jpg?imwidth=640" />

In the&nbsp;span of three days, fire accidents have affected the Apple iPhone assembly unit run by Taiwanese firm Pegatron and the Japanese firm Yazaki that makes automobile wiring, both of which are situated nearly 60 kilometres from the southern Indian metropolis of Chennai. Located in Tamil Nadu's Chengalpattu district, the Pegatron and Yazaki facilities are situated a few kilometres apart from each other. In both cases, the blaze was reported at night and is said to have started from an electric short circuit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-michael-gambon-the-actor-who-played-dumbledore-in-harry-potter-films-dead-at-82-640575">Michael Gambon, the actor who played Dumbledore in Harry Potter films, dies at 82</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/28/382583-your-paragraph-text-2023-09-28t173429610.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Michael Gambon, who famously played Professor Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films, has died aged 82. The news of his death was announced by his family on Thursday.&nbsp;Publicist Clair Dobbs issued a statement on behalf of his wife Lady Gambon and son Fergus, “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon. Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82.”

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The Armenian government on Thursday (Sep 28) announced more than 65,000 Armenians had fled the conflict-ridden zone of Nagorno-Karabakh for Yerevan after Azerbaijan recaptured the territory last week.

The Armenian government on Thursday (Sep 28) announced more than 65,000 Armenians had fled the conflict-ridden zone of Nagorno-Karabakh for Yerevan after Azerbaijan recaptured the territory last week. In another news, ahead of the hotly anticipated 2024 US presidential elections as well as the general elections in India, X (formerly known as Twitter) has fired its election team working to prevent disruptions during the polls. Click on the headlines to read more: Over 65,000 Armenians flee Nagorno Karabakh after Azerbaijan's victory Armenian government spokeswoman, Nazeli Baghdasaryan in a statement said, "65,036 forcefully displaced persons crossed into Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh". "The state is providing suitable housing to all those who do not have a predetermined place of residence," she added. 'They’re gone...': Musk fires election integrity team ahead of 2024 elections Former X CEO Elon Musk took to the platform and confirmed that the 'election integrity' team was 'gone'. Responding to a post that said X had reportedly cut half of its team, Musk said: “Oh you mean the ‘Election Integrity’ Team that was undermining election integrity? Yeah, they’re gone.” According to a Guardian report, a number of staff members working out of the Dublin office, including Aaron Rodericks, the co-lead of the election disinformation team have left the company. Travis King: US soldier expelled from North Korea returns to Texas US Army Private Travis King has returned to a US military facility in Texas following his expulsion from North Korea, reported CNN. After his daring crossing of the heavily fortified border two months ago, King arrived at Kelly Field on a US military flight on Thursday (Sept 28). Chinese scientist says India’s Chandrayaan-3 didn't land on Moon’s south pole A top Chinese scientist has claimed that India’s Chandrayaan-3, the country’s lunar mission, didn’t land on the Moon’s south pole, disputing New Delhi’s historic achievement. The startling claim comes at a time when Indian scientists are trying to revive the Vikram lander and Pragyaan rover from hibernation after the two-week frosty lunar night. US processes 1 million visas to Indians in 2023, Garcetti says more to come US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti informed on Thursday (Sep 28) that the country's embassy and other consulates had processed a million visa applications this year. According to an official release from the US Embassy in India, the mission has already surpassed the total number of cases that were processed in 2022. It added that almost 20 per cent more applications were being processed compared to pre-pandemic 2019 levels. Ravi Ashwin replaces Axar Patel in India's final 15 for World Cup 2023 India dealt with a blow ahead of the commencement of ODI World Cup 2023 as their spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel got ruled out, while veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin is included in his place in the final 15. Following the latest scans, Axar needs approximately three weeks to completely recover from the quadriceps strain he sustained during the Asia Cup 2023, meaning he would have to sit out for at least the first half of the tournament had he been picked. Separatist state Nagorno-Karabakh will cease to exist next year, declares top leader A separatist leader from Nagorno-Karabakh said Thursday (Sep 28) that the breakaway region will cease to exist from January 1, 2024, as Azeri authorities plan to annex the region in its entirety. "Dissolve all state institutions and organisations under their departmental subordination by January 1, 2024, and the Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) ceases to exist," said the decree, which was issued as tens of thousands of ethnic Armenians fled in the wake of Azerbaijan's assault last week. Hackers claiming to have Indian allegiance target Canadian military website Amid the ongoing bitterness between India and Canada over claims made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, hackers calling themselves the Indian Cyber Force have claimed to have targeted the Canadian Armed Forces' official website. The group which does not have any formal links to New Delhi claimed on Telegram that it had taken down the www.forces.ca website. One of the messages shared showed a screenshot of an error page with the message "#f---Canada". Tamil Nadu: Within 3 days, twin fire accidents hit Taiwanese and Japanese factories \ In the span of three days, fire accidents have affected the Apple iPhone assembly unit run by Taiwanese firm Pegatron and the Japanese firm Yazaki that makes automobile wiring, both of which are situated nearly 60 kilometres from the southern Indian metropolis of Chennai. Located in Tamil Nadu's Chengalpattu district, the Pegatron and Yazaki facilities are situated a few kilometres apart from each other. In both cases, the blaze was reported at night and is said to have started from an electric short circuit. Michael Gambon, the actor who played Dumbledore in Harry Potter films, dies at 82 Michael Gambon, who famously played Professor Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films, has died aged 82. The news of his death was announced by his family on Thursday. Publicist Clair Dobbs issued a statement on behalf of his wife Lady Gambon and son Fergus, “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon. Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82.”

Top 10 world news: Over 65,000 Armenians flee Nagorno Karabakh, Travis King returns to Texas, and more

Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc in the final of the Asia Cup 2023 on Sunday, September 17 as India beat co-hosts Sri Lanka. The 10-wicket win saw the Men in Blue clinch their eighth Asia Cup (ODI) title as they build momentum for the upcoming ODI World Cup in their own backyard. Siraj scalped six wickets and registered third-best bowling figures for India in the ODI format as he dismantled the opposition at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. This is also India’s eighth Asia Cup title overall having also won the T20 version in 2016. In another news, Santiniketan, the town in Birbhum district of West Bengal, where many years were spent by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, has now become a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-mohammed-siraj-runs-riot-for-india-in-summit-clash-with-six-fer-beat-sl-to-clinch-seventh-title-636876">Asia Cup: Siraj runs riot with six-fer in final, helps India win eighth title</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380274-1-2023-09-17t175411123.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc in the final of the Asia Cup 2023 on Sunday, September 17 as India&nbsp;beat co-hosts Sri Lanka. The 10-wicket win saw the Men in Blue clinch their eighth Asia Cup (ODI) title as they build momentum for the upcoming ODI World Cup in their own backyard.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-santiniketan-home-to-rabindranath-tagore-makes-it-to-unescos-world-heritage-list-636892">India: Gurudev Tagore’s Santiniketan makes it to UNESCO's World Heritage List</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380286-untitled-design-2023-09-17t190615722.png?imwidth=640" />

Santiniketan was established in 1901 by the famous poet Tagore. It has functioned as a residential school and centre for art which has its roots embedded in ancient Indian traditions and carries a vision of the unity of humans across religious and cultural boundaries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-pak-forces-gave-cover-fire-to-one-of-three-infiltrators-in-jks-baramulla-636745">Indian Army: Pak forces gave cover fire to 1 of 3 infiltrators in Baramulla</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380207-army-encounter.JPG?imwidth=640" />

The Indian Army said on Saturday (September 16) that Pakistani forces gave cover fire to one of the three terrorists who tried to cross over into India from across the Line of Control (LoC) in Baramulla district's Uri. All&nbsp;three terrorists were neutralised&nbsp;by Indian security forces on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-lula-condemns-us-embargo-on-cuba-calls-it-illegal-636795">Brazil’s President Lula condemns US embargo on Cuba, calls it ‘illegal’</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380236-pg2xpsp3o5j7jasyz3iw4yo3gi-1.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has condemned the US embargo on Cuba and termed it “illegal” during a visit to the island country.&nbsp;Lula also denounced the inclusion of Cuba in&nbsp;the list of so-called state sponsors of terrorism. Lula is on his first visit to Cuba since assuming power for the third time.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/russell-brand-dropped-by-talent-agency-after-sexual-assault-allegations-636896">Actor Russell Brand dropped by talent agency after sexual assault allegations</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380288-happy-30th-birthday-34.png?imwidth=640" />

Actor and comedian Russell Brand has been&nbsp;accused of rape, sexual assault, and emotional abuse by four women. The new bombshell report by the Sunday Times revealed that Russell abused four women, including a 16-year-old, between 2006 and 2013, when he was at the height of his stardom.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-leaves-russia-after-underscoring-bonhomie-with-vladimir-putin-636802">Kim Jong Un leaves Russia after underscoring bonhomie with Vladimir Putin</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380239-untitled-design-2023-09-17t135338461.png?imwidth=256" />

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wrapped up his visit to Russia on Sunday, Russian news agencies reported, leaving the far eastern region of the country on his armoured train. The Ria Novosti agency published a video of Kim's departure and said a "departure ceremony" was held at the Artyom-Primorsky-1 station.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-ramaswamy-vows-to-gut-h1-b-visa-system-if-wins-presidential-elections-report-636840">Vivek Ramaswamy vows to 'gut' H1-B visa system if he wins US presidential elections: Report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380252-untitled-design-2023-09-17t154830947.png?imwidth=640" />

Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican hopeful in the race for the White House, has promised to make significant changes to the H-1B temporary worker visa system if elected.&nbsp;This is a notable pledge considering that he has utilised this very system to hire highly skilled foreign workers for his pharmaceutical company, Roivant Sciences, which contributed substantially to his wealth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-indian-army-soldier-abducted-while-on-leave-killed-636932">Manipur: Indian Army soldier abducted while on leave, killed</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380307-untitled-design-2023-09-17t210219777.png?imwidth=640" />

In a tragic incident in Manipur, a 41-year-old Indian Army soldier named Sepoy Serto Thangthang Kom was killed after being abducted from his residence while he was on leave, media reports said. The soldier was kidnapped from the Imphal West district of Manipur. His lifeless body was discovered the following morning.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-former-interior-minister-sheikh-rashid-arrested-from-his-residence-taken-to-undisclosed-location-636936">Pakistan: Former interior minister Sheikh Rashid arrested from his residence, taken to 'undisclosed location'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380313-succession-2023-09-17t213555441.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Awami Muslim League (AML) chief and PTI ally Sheikh Rashid was arrested on Sunday evening (September 17), from his residence in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, said his lawyer Sardar Abdul Razzak Khan as per Pakistani outlet Dawn reports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-asian-community-members-demand-justice-for-jaahnavi-kandula-meet-mayor-636889">South Asian community members demand justice for Jaahnavi Kandula, meet Seattle mayor</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380284-succession-2023-09-17t012245279.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Members of the South Asian community met the Mayor of Seattle and the top officials of the city, on Saturday (September 16), and also held a rally at the site where Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula was struck and killed by an overspeeding police vehicle.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc in the final of the Asia Cup 2023 on Sunday, September 17 as India beat co-hosts Sri Lanka. The 10-wicket win saw the Men in Blue clinch their eighth Asia Cup (ODI) title as they build momentum for the upcoming ODI World Cup in their own backyard.

Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc in the final of the Asia Cup 2023 on Sunday, September 17 as India beat co-hosts Sri Lanka. The 10-wicket win saw the Men in Blue clinch their eighth Asia Cup (ODI) title as they build momentum for the upcoming ODI World Cup in their own backyard. Siraj scalped six wickets and registered third-best bowling figures for India in the ODI format as he dismantled the opposition at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. This is also India’s eighth Asia Cup title overall having also won the T20 version in 2016. In another news, Santiniketan, the town in Birbhum district of West Bengal, where many years were spent by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, has now become a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. Click on the headlines to read more: Asia Cup: Siraj runs riot with six-fer in final, helps India win eighth title Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc in the final of the Asia Cup 2023 on Sunday, September 17 as India beat co-hosts Sri Lanka. The 10-wicket win saw the Men in Blue clinch their eighth Asia Cup (ODI) title as they build momentum for the upcoming ODI World Cup in their own backyard. India: Gurudev Tagore’s Santiniketan makes it to UNESCO's World Heritage List Santiniketan was established in 1901 by the famous poet Tagore. It has functioned as a residential school and centre for art which has its roots embedded in ancient Indian traditions and carries a vision of the unity of humans across religious and cultural boundaries. Indian Army: Pak forces gave cover fire to 1 of 3 infiltrators in Baramulla The Indian Army said on Saturday (September 16) that Pakistani forces gave cover fire to one of the three terrorists who tried to cross over into India from across the Line of Control (LoC) in Baramulla district's Uri. All three terrorists were neutralised by Indian security forces on Saturday. Brazil’s President Lula condemns US embargo on Cuba, calls it ‘illegal’ Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has condemned the US embargo on Cuba and termed it “illegal” during a visit to the island country. Lula also denounced the inclusion of Cuba in the list of so-called state sponsors of terrorism. Lula is on his first visit to Cuba since assuming power for the third time. Actor Russell Brand dropped by talent agency after sexual assault allegations Actor and comedian Russell Brand has been accused of rape, sexual assault, and emotional abuse by four women. The new bombshell report by the Sunday Times revealed that Russell abused four women, including a 16-year-old, between 2006 and 2013, when he was at the height of his stardom. Kim Jong Un leaves Russia after underscoring bonhomie with Vladimir Putin North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wrapped up his visit to Russia on Sunday, Russian news agencies reported, leaving the far eastern region of the country on his armoured train. The Ria Novosti agency published a video of Kim's departure and said a "departure ceremony" was held at the Artyom-Primorsky-1 station. Vivek Ramaswamy vows to 'gut' H1-B visa system if he wins US presidential elections: Report Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican hopeful in the race for the White House, has promised to make significant changes to the H-1B temporary worker visa system if elected. This is a notable pledge considering that he has utilised this very system to hire highly skilled foreign workers for his pharmaceutical company, Roivant Sciences, which contributed substantially to his wealth. Manipur: Indian Army soldier abducted while on leave, killed In a tragic incident in Manipur, a 41-year-old Indian Army soldier named Sepoy Serto Thangthang Kom was killed after being abducted from his residence while he was on leave, media reports said. The soldier was kidnapped from the Imphal West district of Manipur. His lifeless body was discovered the following morning. Pakistan: Former interior minister Sheikh Rashid arrested from his residence, taken to 'undisclosed location' Awami Muslim League (AML) chief and PTI ally Sheikh Rashid was arrested on Sunday evening (September 17), from his residence in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, said his lawyer Sardar Abdul Razzak Khan as per Pakistani outlet Dawn reports. South Asian community members demand justice for Jaahnavi Kandula, meet Seattle mayor Members of the South Asian community met the Mayor of Seattle and the top officials of the city, on Saturday (September 16), and also held a rally at the site where Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula was struck and killed by an overspeeding police vehicle.

Top 10 world news: India win Asia Cup, Santiniketan makes it to UNESCO's World Heritage List, and more

On account of the G20 Summit, all public, private, and municipal offices and schools in Delhi would be closed from September 8 to September 10. Banks, financial institutions, and retail establishments will also be closed during this time, NDTV quoted Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as saying.&nbsp;

Kejriwal's statement came shortly after the Special Commissioner of the Delhi Police wrote to the city’s Chief Secretary recommending a government holiday from September 8 to September 10.

On September 9 and 10, the G20 summit—a gathering of the heads of the 20 largest economies in the world—will take place at Delhi’s Pragati Maidan’s state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam convention hall, which was just inaugurated. India will be hosting the conference.

The recommendation is being given in an attempt to ease any potential traffic congestion and logistical issues.

“Since, most of the arrivals will take place September 8 and delegates will depart to their respective countries on September 10-11, there will be a massive movement of traffic which needs to be curtailed to ensure safe passage for the delegates from airport to hotels and to the other venues during the summit,” the letter read.

The Delhi Police are in the process of making special arrangements to ensure smooth vehicular movement during the time of the summit. The summit will see the arrival of several heads of state and diplomats, including US President Joe Biden, Chinese Premier Xi Jinping, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and French President Emmanuel Macron.

In order to examine the restriction and diversion measures, the Delhi traffic police performed a mock drill on important routes connecting Pragati Maidan, the summit’s main location, with a number of hotels on Monday.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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On account of the G20 Summit, all public, private, and municipal offices and schools in Delhi would be closed from September 8 to September 10. Banks, financial institutions, and retail establishments will also be closed during this time, NDTV quoted Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as saying.

On account of the G20 Summit, all public, private, and municipal offices and schools in Delhi would be closed from September 8 to September 10. Banks, financial institutions, and retail establishments will also be closed during this time, NDTV quoted Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as saying. Kejriwal's statement came shortly after the Special Commissioner of the Delhi Police wrote to the city’s Chief Secretary recommending a government holiday from September 8 to September 10. On September 9 and 10, the G20 summit—a gathering of the heads of the 20 largest economies in the world—will take place at Delhi’s Pragati Maidan’s state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam convention hall, which was just inaugurated. India will be hosting the conference. The recommendation is being given in an attempt to ease any potential traffic congestion and logistical issues. “Since, most of the arrivals will take place September 8 and delegates will depart to their respective countries on September 10-11, there will be a massive movement of traffic which needs to be curtailed to ensure safe passage for the delegates from airport to hotels and to the other venues during the summit,” the letter read. The Delhi Police are in the process of making special arrangements to ensure smooth vehicular movement during the time of the summit. The summit will see the arrival of several heads of state and diplomats, including US President Joe Biden, Chinese Premier Xi Jinping, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and French President Emmanuel Macron. In order to examine the restriction and diversion measures, the Delhi traffic police performed a mock drill on important routes connecting Pragati Maidan, the summit’s main location, with a number of hotels on Monday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Delhi offices, schools, shops, banks to be shut on Sept 8-10 for G20 meet 

China is facing a major job&nbsp;crisis, and stealing the limelight is the so-called “Curse of 35”.&nbsp;

This mystifying phenomenon reveals the ordeal faced by employees in their career race. It basically means that as a person nears the age of 35, his or her career goes for a toss. But what makes this age so dire in China?&nbsp;

Chinese work culture has a structure that is age-woven and hierarchical, where seniors reign supreme. Ambitious youth crave more growth avenues, yet older counterparts claw at lofty roles. Thus, when one is at the brink of 35, a bottleneck brews, making it a nerve-wracking situation.&nbsp;

From an employer's perspective, there are various beliefs associated with individuals in this age bracket, such as their perceived reluctance to handle additional workload and work overtime. &nbsp;

Employers may need to allocate more resources to cater to the needs and entitlements of employees in this age group, considering that it is a crucial time when people make life decisions regarding marriage, having children, owning a house, and more,&nbsp;said&nbsp;Dr Anand P Krishnan, fellow, Centre for Himalayan Studies, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, and visiting associate fellow at the Institute of Chinese Studies, Delhi.&nbsp;

However, there is another aspect that is often overlooked—the stringent regulations on formal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/surging-youth-unemployment-casts-shadow-on-chinas-economic-outlook-605045">employment in China</a>. The Labour Contract Law implemented in 2008 imposes strict hiring guidelines, leading companies and employers to be cautious when considering the employment of individuals deemed "old." Consequently, this creates a precarious labour market where informal employment practices come into play, Krishnan told WION.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: The curse of 35 hits Chinese people

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<h2>A tougher situation for women&nbsp;</h2>

The Chinese government has traditionally played a paternalistic role in setting societal norms, particularly when it comes to women.&nbsp;

“There are several factors crucial to employment, especially for female employees,”&nbsp;Dr Geeta Kochhar,&nbsp;assistant professor, Centre for Chinese and South Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University told WION.&nbsp;

“Firstly, young and dynamic women are preferred. Secondly, married women are seen as liabilities to the company. Thirdly, married women may face issues related to bearing and raising a child, which can result in them taking leave, and thus they are not preferred. Fourth, the company's image and relationship building require young and good-looking women. Lastly, since the enterprise requires long hours of work, they prefer young individuals who can undergo military-like training and travel with no constraints,” she pointed out.&nbsp;

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Additionally, China's birth rate is projected to have reached an unprecedented low of 1.09 in 2022.&nbsp;This statistic is expected to cause concern among authorities who are striving to counter the decline in the nation's birth rates. China's Population and Development Research Centre&nbsp;indicated that this places the country at the lowest fertility rate among nations with populations exceeding 100 million.

<h2>No job, no marriage, no kids: A domino effect affecting birthrates&nbsp;</h2>

It's a tough situation for workers in their mid-30s who are making important decisions about their careers, marriage, and having children. They face a double whammy that makes things even more challenging.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-chinas-conundrum-falling-marriage-birth-rates-taking-its-economy-for-a-spin-604563">Data Lab | Chinese neither marrying nor having kids and it's Xi Jinping's new headache. Here's how</a>

China’s marriage rates hit a record low in 2022, as the country grapples with a declining birth rate and population. &nbsp;

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According to the Ministry of Civil Affairs of China, the number of registered marriages in 2022 was 6.8 million, marking a significant 10.5 per cent decrease from the previous year's 7.63 million marriages. This represents the lowest figure recorded since 1986 when the Chinese government began documenting such statistics.&nbsp;

“Despite the Chinese Party-State removing the one-child norm, fewer parents are ready to bear more children. Rising costs in cities (especially the big ones like Beijing and Shanghai) are making parents rethink their options,” Dr Krishnan explains. &nbsp;

“In fact, even during the heights of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-lockdowns-and-now-unemployment-108-millions-university-graduates-face-a-dark-future-in-china-491047"> pandemic and lockdowns</a>, the Party-state's paternalistic messaging to people to ‘utilise the time well and plan families’ did not find an echo among couples,” he adds.

&nbsp;

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China is facing a major job crisis, and stealing the limelight is the so-called “Curse of 35”. This mystifying phenomenon reveals the ordeal faced by employees in their career race.

China is facing a major job crisis, and stealing the limelight is the so-called “Curse of 35”. This mystifying phenomenon reveals the ordeal faced by employees in their career race. It basically means that as a person nears the age of 35, his or her career goes for a toss. But what makes this age so dire in China? Chinese work culture has a structure that is age-woven and hierarchical, where seniors reign supreme. Ambitious youth crave more growth avenues, yet older counterparts claw at lofty roles. Thus, when one is at the brink of 35, a bottleneck brews, making it a nerve-wracking situation. From an employer's perspective, there are various beliefs associated with individuals in this age bracket, such as their perceived reluctance to handle additional workload and work overtime. Employers may need to allocate more resources to cater to the needs and entitlements of employees in this age group, considering that it is a crucial time when people make life decisions regarding marriage, having children, owning a house, and more, said Dr Anand P Krishnan, fellow, Centre for Himalayan Studies, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, and visiting associate fellow at the Institute of Chinese Studies, Delhi. However, there is another aspect that is often overlooked—the stringent regulations on formal employment in China. The Labour Contract Law implemented in 2008 imposes strict hiring guidelines, leading companies and employers to be cautious when considering the employment of individuals deemed "old." Consequently, this creates a precarious labour market where informal employment practices come into play, Krishnan told WION. Also watch | Gravitas: The curse of 35 hits Chinese people A tougher situation for women The Chinese government has traditionally played a paternalistic role in setting societal norms, particularly when it comes to women. “There are several factors crucial to employment, especially for female employees,” Dr Geeta Kochhar, assistant professor, Centre for Chinese and South Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University told WION. “Firstly, young and dynamic women are preferred. Secondly, married women are seen as liabilities to the company. Thirdly, married women may face issues related to bearing and raising a child, which can result in them taking leave, and thus they are not preferred. Fourth, the company's image and relationship building require young and good-looking women. Lastly, since the enterprise requires long hours of work, they prefer young individuals who can undergo military-like training and travel with no constraints,” she pointed out. × Note: This is an immersive data chart. Please hover over the chart to get the figures. Additionally, China's birth rate is projected to have reached an unprecedented low of 1.09 in 2022. This statistic is expected to cause concern among authorities who are striving to counter the decline in the nation's birth rates. China's Population and Development Research Centre indicated that this places the country at the lowest fertility rate among nations with populations exceeding 100 million. No job, no marriage, no kids: A domino effect affecting birthrates It's a tough situation for workers in their mid-30s who are making important decisions about their careers, marriage, and having children. They face a double whammy that makes things even more challenging. Also read | Data Lab | Chinese neither marrying nor having kids and it's Xi Jinping's new headache. Here's how China’s marriage rates hit a record low in 2022, as the country grapples with a declining birth rate and population. × Note: This is an immersive data chart. Please hover over the chart to get the figures. According to the Ministry of Civil Affairs of China, the number of registered marriages in 2022 was 6.8 million, marking a significant 10.5 per cent decrease from the previous year's 7.63 million marriages. This represents the lowest figure recorded since 1986 when the Chinese government began documenting such statistics. “Despite the Chinese Party-State removing the one-child norm, fewer parents are ready to bear more children. Rising costs in cities (especially the big ones like Beijing and Shanghai) are making parents rethink their options,” Dr Krishnan explains. “In fact, even during the heights of the pandemic and lockdowns, the Party-state's paternalistic messaging to people to ‘utilise the time well and plan families’ did not find an echo among couples,” he adds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Data Lab | China's job crisis and 'the curse of 35’: Why are people afraid of that age?

Disney's recent decline in Disney+ streaming subscribers persisted as revealed in the fiscal third quarter financial report released on Wednesday (August 9). In fact, the situation worsened considerably. However, the reorganisation efforts overseen by CEO Bob Iger during the eight months since his return to the position also yielded some positive outcomes. The losses in streaming and overall company performance have lessened, partially attributed to significant job cuts carried out over recent months and a hike in streaming prices.

During a discussion with financial analysts, Iger outlined three key sectors for future expansion: film studios, theme parks, and streaming services, reported Forbes.

He highlighted the potential synergy among these areas that holds significant potential, citing an example of the anticipation generated by the theatrical release of the third Guardians of the Galaxy film, which has subsequently led to increased interest and engagement with the preceding two movies on Disney+.

Iger has acknowledged the formidable obstacles the entertainment giant is currently facing in the short term.

However, amidst these challenges, he has highlighted the company's efforts to curtail expenses and foster creativity. The latest quarterly results have unveiled both triumphs and vulnerabilities within Disney's operations.

In the aftermath of the quarterly announcement, Disney's stock experienced a nearly three per cent&nbsp;surge during after-hours trading, reported Reuters.

Iger attributed this positive momentum to the impressive $1 billion surge in operating income achieved by the streaming business over the past three quarters.

This surge is integral to Disney's ambitious goal of achieving profitability in its streaming endeavours by 2024.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/after-criticism-disneys-bob-iger-shifts-stance-on-writers-actors-strikes-i-am-personally-committed-624021">After criticism, Disney's Bob Iger shifts stance on striking writers, actors: I am personally committed...</a>

<h2>Quality enhancement and overcoming industry hurdles</h2>

While celebrating certain triumphs, Iger also candidly acknowledged the imperative of enhancing the quality of Disney's cinematic offerings.

Moreover, he underscored the strategic importance of transforming Disney's premier sports brand, ESPN, into a platform tailored for direct-to-consumer streaming.

The spectre&nbsp;of ongoing writers' and actors' strikes in Hollywood, which have significantly disrupted film and television production, was also addressed.

Iger's commitment to the ongoing transformation of Disney was evident as he shared, "I returned to Disney in November, and I've agreed to stay on longer, because there was more to accomplish before our transformation is complete."

He unequivocally described the present environment as challenging, emphasising the company's unwavering resolve to evolve.

Disney's fiscal third quarter profits outperformed Wall Street predictions, buoyed by the company's efforts to trim costs.

Disney is on track to exceed its earlier commitment of cutting costs by over $5.5 billion, a promise made to investors back in February.

Despite this positive aspect, the company fell short of revenue expectations for the quarter and slightly missed the mark in terms of projected US Disney+ subscribers.

Also watch |&nbsp;Disney hikes streaming prices

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<h2>Strategic pricing adjustments and expansion</h2>

In a bid to lure and retain subscribers in an increasingly competitive streaming landscape, Disney unveiled plans to raise prices for its ad-free tier of Disney+ and the ad-free version of Hulu.

Simultaneously, the company announced its intention to introduce ad-supported streaming options in Europe and Canada. Additionally, a new ad-free package is set to be introduced for US&nbsp;subscribers.

While Disney's traditional television business faced continued decline, the direct-to-consumer sector reported a 9 per cent rise in revenue. Disney's Parks, Experiences, and Products group recorded a 13 per cent&nbsp;increase in revenue, largely attributed to the rebound of the Shanghai Disney Resort.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Disney's recent decline in Disney+ streaming subscribers persisted as revealed in the fiscal third quarter financial report released on Wednesday (August 9). In fact, the situation worsened considerably.

Disney's recent decline in Disney+ streaming subscribers persisted as revealed in the fiscal third quarter financial report released on Wednesday (August 9). In fact, the situation worsened considerably. However, the reorganisation efforts overseen by CEO Bob Iger during the eight months since his return to the position also yielded some positive outcomes. The losses in streaming and overall company performance have lessened, partially attributed to significant job cuts carried out over recent months and a hike in streaming prices. During a discussion with financial analysts, Iger outlined three key sectors for future expansion: film studios, theme parks, and streaming services, reported Forbes. He highlighted the potential synergy among these areas that holds significant potential, citing an example of the anticipation generated by the theatrical release of the third Guardians of the Galaxy film, which has subsequently led to increased interest and engagement with the preceding two movies on Disney+. Iger has acknowledged the formidable obstacles the entertainment giant is currently facing in the short term. However, amidst these challenges, he has highlighted the company's efforts to curtail expenses and foster creativity. The latest quarterly results have unveiled both triumphs and vulnerabilities within Disney's operations. In the aftermath of the quarterly announcement, Disney's stock experienced a nearly three per cent surge during after-hours trading, reported Reuters. Iger attributed this positive momentum to the impressive $1 billion surge in operating income achieved by the streaming business over the past three quarters. This surge is integral to Disney's ambitious goal of achieving profitability in its streaming endeavours by 2024. Also read | After criticism, Disney's Bob Iger shifts stance on striking writers, actors: I am personally committed... Quality enhancement and overcoming industry hurdles While celebrating certain triumphs, Iger also candidly acknowledged the imperative of enhancing the quality of Disney's cinematic offerings. Moreover, he underscored the strategic importance of transforming Disney's premier sports brand, ESPN, into a platform tailored for direct-to-consumer streaming. The spectre of ongoing writers' and actors' strikes in Hollywood, which have significantly disrupted film and television production, was also addressed. Iger's commitment to the ongoing transformation of Disney was evident as he shared, "I returned to Disney in November, and I've agreed to stay on longer, because there was more to accomplish before our transformation is complete." He unequivocally described the present environment as challenging, emphasising the company's unwavering resolve to evolve. Disney's fiscal third quarter profits outperformed Wall Street predictions, buoyed by the company's efforts to trim costs. Disney is on track to exceed its earlier commitment of cutting costs by over $5.5 billion, a promise made to investors back in February. Despite this positive aspect, the company fell short of revenue expectations for the quarter and slightly missed the mark in terms of projected US Disney+ subscribers. Also watch | Disney hikes streaming prices Strategic pricing adjustments and expansion In a bid to lure and retain subscribers in an increasingly competitive streaming landscape, Disney unveiled plans to raise prices for its ad-free tier of Disney+ and the ad-free version of Hulu. Simultaneously, the company announced its intention to introduce ad-supported streaming options in Europe and Canada. Additionally, a new ad-free package is set to be introduced for US subscribers. While Disney's traditional television business faced continued decline, the direct-to-consumer sector reported a 9 per cent rise in revenue. Disney's Parks, Experiences, and Products group recorded a 13 per cent increase in revenue, largely attributed to the rebound of the Shanghai Disney Resort. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Disney+ loses 11.7mn subscribers, streaming fee hike and password crackdown awaits

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