#Gravitas Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears to have narrowed the gap with his main challenger in the race for public support for the 2026 national elections.  A poll shows Netanyahu and former Israel Defence Forces chief Gadi Eisenkot tied, with 38 percent of respondents saying they would prefer each of them to lead the country.   

Netanyahu's Poll Numbers Rise Amid Internal Turmoil

The world is witnessing a series of major developments across multiple regions.

In today's top global headlines:

Student protests continue to grow in India over the NEET paper leak controversy.
Israel intensifies military operations in Lebanon amid rising regional tensions.
Russia launches fresh strikes across Ukraine, causing destruction and civilian casualties.
Massive wildfires spread across France, forcing evacuations and emergency responses.

Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage, expert analysis, and the latest international developments shaping global politics, conflict, security, and climate events.

Watch the complete bulletin for all the latest updates.

Students' Protests Grow in India | Israel Bombards Lebanon | Russia Strikes Ukraine | Wion News 

In today's top headlines:

CJP leaders are set to meet government representatives as the NEET paper leak protest continues at Jantar Mantar.
Opposition MPs protest in Parliament, demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister.
Iran issues fresh warnings and reports military action amid escalating tensions with the United States.
Explosions reported in Iran's Bandar Abbas following fresh U.S. strikes.
Ukrainian drone attack targets a warehouse near St. Petersburg.
China issues heavy rain and flood warnings as a tropical storm approaches Guangdong and Fujian.
Spain declares a national emergency as massive wildfires force over 10,000 people to evacuate.

Watch the full report for the latest national and international developments.

CJP Meets Centre | Parliament Protest |  Iran-US Conflict | Spain Wildfires | China Flood Warning

The Middle East conflict has entered another dangerous phase as the United States launched its 12th consecutive night of strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure. President Donald Trump declared that Iran is "not ready to make a deal," while insisting Tehran will eventually agree under mounting military pressure.

Meanwhile, Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, intensifying fears over global shipping routes and energy security. Kuwait reported intercepting hostile drones, while the US House approved a $95 billion budget package supporting operations linked to the Iran conflict. The United States and Saudi Arabia also signed a landmark civil nuclear cooperation agreement. In South America, mass protests erupted in Argentina against President Javier Milei's austerity measures, while Tesla missed Wall Street expectations despite billion-dollar profits.

US hits Iran for 12th night | Trump says Iran not ready for deal | Houthis strike Saudi tankers

All eyes are on France as National Rally leader Marine Le Pen awaits a crucial verdict that could have far-reaching consequences for her political future. The decision is being closely watched by supporters, opponents, and political observers across Europe. In this edition of Race To Power, we explore the case, its significance for French politics, and what the ruling could mean for the future of the country's right-wing movement.

France's national rally leader Marine Le Pen awaits a defining verdict

President Donald Trump claimed the U.S. “destroyed” key command centers tied to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), sharply escalating tensions. Trump warned Tehran against retaliation, saying any response would be met with overwhelming force. The statement raises concerns over regional stability, possible military escalation, and the future of U.S.–Iran relations.

Iran War: US 'Destroys' IRGC's Command Facilities: Trump Warns Retaliation

Nikos Christodoulides was declared the victor of the Sunday (February 12) presidential election in Cyprus,&nbsp;following a second and final round of voting. He pledged to form a government of national unity with the aim of resuming peace negotiations with the estranged Turkish Cypriots. Christodoulides, 49, received 51.9 per cent&nbsp;of the vote, according to the official figures, while Andreas Mavroyiannis, 66, received 48.1 per cent.&nbsp;

The vote on Sunday put career diplomat Mavroyiannis, a former main negotiator in the peace negotiations with Turkish Cypriots, against former foreign minister Christodoulides. Mavroyiannis was also a former permanent representative of Cyprus to the UN.

Right-of-centre and centre-leaning parties supported Christodoulides' independent campaign.

As the government's spokesperson or until early 2022 as foreign minister, Christodoulides has regularly been at the forefront during the previous ten years, often presenting the image of a youthful, dynamic politician with many ideas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mohammad-shahabuddin-chuppu-poised-to-become-the-next-president-of-bangladesh-561180">Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppu poised to become the next president of Bangladesh</a>

Mavroyiannis congratulated Christodoulides and conceded defeat.&nbsp;

"Tonight is the end of a long but nice journey ... I want to thank from the bottom of my soul all those who travelled with me," he said.

The issues that await the next president vary from the fallout from corruption scandals and a spike in migration that has left authorities dealing with thousands of asylum applications to the deadlock in reunification talks with Turkish Cypriots on the ethnically divided island and labour disputes amid runaway inflation.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION in ground zero Syria: Miraculous tales of survival continue

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-in-ground-zero-syria-miraculous-tales-of-survival-continue-561243/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Cyprus hold a presidential election every five years.&nbsp;Since 2013, Nicos Anastasiades, a conservative leader of the governing DISY party, has been in office after being re-elected in 2018. He isn't allowed to run for a third term by law.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Nikos Christodoulides was declared the victor of the Sunday (February 12) presidential election in Cyprus, following a second and final round of voting. He pledged to form a government of national unity with the aim of resuming peace negotiations with the estranged Turkish Cypriots.

Nikos Christodoulides was declared the victor of the Sunday (February 12) presidential election in Cyprus, following a second and final round of voting. He pledged to form a government of national unity with the aim of resuming peace negotiations with the estranged Turkish Cypriots. Christodoulides, 49, received 51.9 per cent of the vote, according to the official figures, while Andreas Mavroyiannis, 66, received 48.1 per cent. The vote on Sunday put career diplomat Mavroyiannis, a former main negotiator in the peace negotiations with Turkish Cypriots, against former foreign minister Christodoulides. Mavroyiannis was also a former permanent representative of Cyprus to the UN. Right-of-centre and centre-leaning parties supported Christodoulides' independent campaign. As the government's spokesperson or until early 2022 as foreign minister, Christodoulides has regularly been at the forefront during the previous ten years, often presenting the image of a youthful, dynamic politician with many ideas. Also read | Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppu poised to become the next president of Bangladesh Mavroyiannis congratulated Christodoulides and conceded defeat. "Tonight is the end of a long but nice journey ... I want to thank from the bottom of my soul all those who travelled with me," he said. The issues that await the next president vary from the fallout from corruption scandals and a spike in migration that has left authorities dealing with thousands of asylum applications to the deadlock in reunification talks with Turkish Cypriots on the ethnically divided island and labour disputes amid runaway inflation. Also watch | WION in ground zero Syria: Miraculous tales of survival continue Cyprus hold a presidential election every five years. Since 2013, Nicos Anastasiades, a conservative leader of the governing DISY party, has been in office after being re-elected in 2018. He isn't allowed to run for a third term by law. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Cyprus: Ex-foreign minister wins presidential election, becomes youngest president of the country

Politics and money never sleep, they say. Years come and go but things innate to human nature never cease to exist. This is not to say that all peace efforts are futile. But it just underlines the fact that the interplay of good and bad goes on and on. But then, who is to say what is absolute good and bad when it comes to politics? Everyone claims it's a matter of perspective.

Year 2021 was no different from this eternal game but there were notable events in world politics that resonated everywhere. Here's a look at some of the issues.

AUKUS deal

China continues to add to its global weight and AUKUS deal between US-UK-Australia was perhaps evident.&nbsp;

AUKUS pact, a trilateral security pact announced on September 15. The three-way deal was focussed on Indo-Pacific theatre, where China has number of interests.

The deal will see US and UK help Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarine. It drew condemnation from China but also miffed France as Australia junked it deal with France worth USD 40 billion to enter AUKUS pact.

Iran nuclear talks

Uncertainty prevails over Iran nuclear deal revival. US and other world powers had inked nuclear deal with Iran 2015 buy former US president Donald Trump withdrew US from the deal in 2018 threatening the existence of the pact. When Joe Biden became US president, his administration indicated that US was inclined to revive the deal.

The talks to revive the deal have not been fruitful at least as 2021 ended. Iran is insistent on lifting of sanctions and assurances that the deal would not be scuttled unilaterally in the future. Western powers are pointing at Iran's Uranium enrichment activities which have gathered pace after 2018.

Taliban's return to power

This is perhaps the most astonishing of all developments. Taliban the group that was, even at this time last year, was an insurgent group fighting the US-led coalition ceased power on August 15 this year in stunning speed.

US spent two decades after 9/11 attacks to build and train Afghan army which was supposed to defend the country against terrorist elements.

But the army and the regime led by Ashraf Ghani collapsed spectacularly as international forces began their withdrawal. Taliban captured province after province swiftly and finally formed the so-called 'Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan'

Capitol hill attacks

USA, the oldest democracy in world that often stands to uphold democractic values across the world saw its own citizens attack its own temple of democracy.

Crowds of Donald Trump supporters attacked US Capitol building on January 6 when US Congress was certifying victory of Joe Biden in US Presidential election 2020. Trump supporters attacked the capitol after a rally he addressed.&nbsp;

USA's democratic credentials took hit worldwide.

Covid

Though year 2020 was hugely marked by the coronvirus pandemic, it aftereffects (an perhaps the next chapter) was seen in 2021.

Just when it appeared that things were stabilising a bit with vaccinations and precautions, coronavirues decided to mutate into a more transmissible form, the Omicron variant.

The variant is spreading rapidly in countries across the world and Europe is especially on alert. Though there are initial signs that virus is not causing as many deaths as previous variants but no one is willing to bet on it at least till now.

Pope Francis meets Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani

On religious front, a meet of two faiths took place this year as Pope Francis, spiritual leader of Christiandom met Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, one of the most senior leaders in Islam. The meeting took place in Grand Ayatollah's home in Iraq, the country home to Christian minority.

After the meet, Grand Ayatollah's office released a statement saying that the Islamic leader “affirmed his concern that Christian citizens should live like all Iraqis in peace and security, and with their full constitutional rights”.

Ukraine crisis

Tension between Ukraine and Russia has the entire world on the tenterhooks. Russia has amassed its military along its border with Ukraine and has been claiming that it was Ukraine that is creating security concerns for Russia.

Western countries have warned Russia against invading Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin has drew red-lines that NATO cannot include Ukraine in its fold.

On December 31 (by IST) US President Joe Biden spoke with Putin for an hour on phone. Both countries have maintained a tough stance.

Politics and money never sleep, they say. Years come and go but things innate to human nature never cease to exist. This is not to say that all peace efforts are futile.

Politics and money never sleep, they say. Years come and go but things innate to human nature never cease to exist. This is not to say that all peace efforts are futile. But it just underlines the fact that the interplay of good and bad goes on and on. But then, who is to say what is absolute good and bad when it comes to politics? Everyone claims it's a matter of perspective. Year 2021 was no different from this eternal game but there were notable events in world politics that resonated everywhere. Here's a look at some of the issues. AUKUS deal China continues to add to its global weight and AUKUS deal between US-UK-Australia was perhaps evident. AUKUS pact, a trilateral security pact announced on September 15. The three-way deal was focussed on Indo-Pacific theatre, where China has number of interests. The deal will see US and UK help Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarine. It drew condemnation from China but also miffed France as Australia junked it deal with France worth USD 40 billion to enter AUKUS pact. Iran nuclear talks Uncertainty prevails over Iran nuclear deal revival. US and other world powers had inked nuclear deal with Iran 2015 buy former US president Donald Trump withdrew US from the deal in 2018 threatening the existence of the pact. When Joe Biden became US president, his administration indicated that US was inclined to revive the deal. The talks to revive the deal have not been fruitful at least as 2021 ended. Iran is insistent on lifting of sanctions and assurances that the deal would not be scuttled unilaterally in the future. Western powers are pointing at Iran's Uranium enrichment activities which have gathered pace after 2018. Taliban's return to power This is perhaps the most astonishing of all developments. Taliban the group that was, even at this time last year, was an insurgent group fighting the US-led coalition ceased power on August 15 this year in stunning speed. US spent two decades after 9/11 attacks to build and train Afghan army which was supposed to defend the country against terrorist elements. But the army and the regime led by Ashraf Ghani collapsed spectacularly as international forces began their withdrawal. Taliban captured province after province swiftly and finally formed the so-called 'Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan' Capitol hill attacks USA, the oldest democracy in world that often stands to uphold democractic values across the world saw its own citizens attack its own temple of democracy. Crowds of Donald Trump supporters attacked US Capitol building on January 6 when US Congress was certifying victory of Joe Biden in US Presidential election 2020. Trump supporters attacked the capitol after a rally he addressed. USA's democratic credentials took hit worldwide. Covid Though year 2020 was hugely marked by the coronvirus pandemic, it aftereffects (an perhaps the next chapter) was seen in 2021. Just when it appeared that things were stabilising a bit with vaccinations and precautions, coronavirues decided to mutate into a more transmissible form, the Omicron variant. The variant is spreading rapidly in countries across the world and Europe is especially on alert. Though there are initial signs that virus is not causing as many deaths as previous variants but no one is willing to bet on it at least till now. Pope Francis meets Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani On religious front, a meet of two faiths took place this year as Pope Francis, spiritual leader of Christiandom met Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, one of the most senior leaders in Islam. The meeting took place in Grand Ayatollah's home in Iraq, the country home to Christian minority. After the meet, Grand Ayatollah's office released a statement saying that the Islamic leader “affirmed his concern that Christian citizens should live like all Iraqis in peace and security, and with their full constitutional rights”. Ukraine crisis Tension between Ukraine and Russia has the entire world on the tenterhooks. Russia has amassed its military along its border with Ukraine and has been claiming that it was Ukraine that is creating security concerns for Russia. Western countries have warned Russia against invading Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin has drew red-lines that NATO cannot include Ukraine in its fold. On December 31 (by IST) US President Joe Biden spoke with Putin for an hour on phone. Both countries have maintained a tough stance.

Year ender: World events that defined 2021

Amid the global lockdown imposed in view of the coronavirus pandemic, there is some good news!

The ozone layer seems to be recovering, a new study claims.

As the global efforts to contain the virus intensify, industries across the world have been abruptly shut. Even the economic costs of such an unplanned global shutdown are expected to be higher even than the Great Depression, there was simply no other way!

Our planet’s ozone layer protects living beings from ultraviolet radiation emerging from the sun. Over the last few decades, the layer had deteriorated tremendously.

In essence: no ozone layer means no life.

The use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) exasperated the ruination of the ozone layer. In fact, the damage was so intense that “Montreal protocol”, an international treaty was adopted to ban the unprecedented use of the gas.

Amid the shutdown, the whole world is experiencing lesser pollution, with videos of animals returning to their natural habitats making the rounds.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-tops-9000-coronavirus-deaths-overtakes-china-in-cases-289043" hreflang="en">Italy tops 9,000 coronavirus deaths, overtakes China in cases</a>

The study claims that new climate changes have been noticed in the southern atmosphere, especially pertaining to air circulation patterns.&nbsp;

The study is led by Antara Banerjee, a CIRES visiting fellow at the University of Colorado, who also works with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

<h6><img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2ee7187-c77c-4363-b14d-14431e8d341a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_32.jpg" /> 
Ozone later | AFP</h6>

In a conversation with The Independent, Banerjee claimed that the Montreal Protocol had immense positive effects on the reclamation of the ozone layer.

“The jet stream in the southern hemisphere was gradually shifting towards the south pole in the last decades of the 20th century due to ozone depletion… Our study found that movement has stopped since 2000 and might even be reversing. The pause in movement began around the same time that the ozone hole started to recover”, she told The Independent.

 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-us-virus-cases-exceed-100000-doctors-decry-scarcity-of-drugs-and-equipment-289041" hreflang="en">As US virus cases exceed 100,000, doctors decry scarcity of drugs and equipment</a>

The emissions, which primarily came from CFCs witnessed a sharp decline around the year 2000.

“It’s not just ozone that affects the jet stream – CO2 also has an effect. What we are seeing is that there is a ‘tug-of-war’ between ozone recovery, which pulls the jet stream one way (to the North), and rising CO2, which pulls the other way (to the South)”, she added.

In conversation with The Independent, she added: “The second most important point of the study, which I would say is a very good finding, is further evidence that the ozone hole is shrinking and that is thanks to the Montreal Protocol.&nbsp;

“It shows that this international treaty has worked and we can reverse the damage that we’ve already done to our planet. That’s a lesson to us all that can hopefully be applied to our greenhouse gas emissions to tackle climate change.

“If we keep adhering to this protocol then the ozone hole is projected to recover – at different times, in different parts of the atmosphere. In some regions, we think it might happen in the next couple of decades and in others much later in the century.”

Amid the global lockdown imposed in view of the coronavirus pandemic, there is some good news! The ozone layer seems to be recovering, a new study claims. As the global efforts to contain the virus intensify, industries across the world have been abruptly shut.

Amid the global lockdown imposed in view of the coronavirus pandemic, there is some good news! The ozone layer seems to be recovering, a new study claims. As the global efforts to contain the virus intensify, industries across the world have been abruptly shut. Even the economic costs of such an unplanned global shutdown are expected to be higher even than the Great Depression, there was simply no other way! Our planet’s ozone layer protects living beings from ultraviolet radiation emerging from the sun. Over the last few decades, the layer had deteriorated tremendously. In essence: no ozone layer means no life. The use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) exasperated the ruination of the ozone layer. In fact, the damage was so intense that “Montreal protocol”, an international treaty was adopted to ban the unprecedented use of the gas. Amid the shutdown, the whole world is experiencing lesser pollution, with videos of animals returning to their natural habitats making the rounds. Also read: Italy tops 9,000 coronavirus deaths, overtakes China in cases The study claims that new climate changes have been noticed in the southern atmosphere, especially pertaining to air circulation patterns. The study is led by Antara Banerjee, a CIRES visiting fellow at the University of Colorado, who also works with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Ozone later | AFP In a conversation with The Independent, Banerjee claimed that the Montreal Protocol had immense positive effects on the reclamation of the ozone layer. “The jet stream in the southern hemisphere was gradually shifting towards the south pole in the last decades of the 20th century due to ozone depletion… Our study found that movement has stopped since 2000 and might even be reversing. The pause in movement began around the same time that the ozone hole started to recover”, she told The Independent. Also read: As US virus cases exceed 100,000, doctors decry scarcity of drugs and equipment The emissions, which primarily came from CFCs witnessed a sharp decline around the year 2000. “It’s not just ozone that affects the jet stream – CO2 also has an effect. What we are seeing is that there is a ‘tug-of-war’ between ozone recovery, which pulls the jet stream one way (to the North), and rising CO2, which pulls the other way (to the South)”, she added. In conversation with The Independent, she added: “The second most important point of the study, which I would say is a very good finding, is further evidence that the ozone hole is shrinking and that is thanks to the Montreal Protocol. “It shows that this international treaty has worked and we can reverse the damage that we’ve already done to our planet. That’s a lesson to us all that can hopefully be applied to our greenhouse gas emissions to tackle climate change. “If we keep adhering to this protocol then the ozone hole is projected to recover – at different times, in different parts of the atmosphere. In some regions, we think it might happen in the next couple of decades and in others much later in the century.”

The ozone layer is healing!

Jagat Prakash Nadda from Himachal Pradesh, unfurled the national flag at BJP Headquarters on India’s 71st Republic Day, as the newly appointed BJP President. He has, with his elevation by the party top brass, added to the slim bench strength of heavyweights in the BJP. &nbsp;

With a shrinking saffron footprint in the states, Nadda must show real ingenuity to make his mark as early as possible. The problem he faces is that of late there seems to be a disconnect between national and local issues. The Shah led BJP in its last stretch when Amit Shah has also been the country’s Home Minister, has been emphasising national issues during state election campaigns.

States are understandably more concerned about their own problems. Also, there have been problems with ticket distribution vis a vis winnability, shown up most glaringly in Jharkhand, lost primarily to the&nbsp;tribal vote for lack of an alliance between JMD and the BJP. This can still be rectified by Nadda, with Prime Minister Modi being exceptionally warm to Soren already. Jharkhand was also where a rebel candidate trounced the misleading and complacent sitting chief minister.

Nadda has a couple of near-ready potential scalps to take in the near future. No.&nbsp;1 is the state of Delhi, in which the subversive, disappointingly corrupt, minority favouring and underperforming AAP, is due for a fall. The BJP could leverage its regularization of unauthorized colonies. The Purvanchal vote is some 30 per cent of the total, and BJP Delhi President Manoj Tiwari is not only a fresh face but also a popular Bhojpuri filmstar/singer. Can Nadda quietly orchestrate the coup from behind the scenes to install Tiwari as chief minister?

The other opportunity is to wrest Maharashtra away from the Aghadi. It was won by the BJP and the Shiv Sena in the first place before the Shiv Sena decided to betray its own long-standing positions (and the voters). It can be retaken in the same fashion perhaps as Karnataka, where Nadda played a winning hand, or via a fresh assembly election if necessary.

Bihar may also go to the polls near the end of 2020 and the retention of power there along with Nitish Kumar’s JD(U) will be of the greatest importance.

The number of states in which BJP has won a near majority lately, but fell short, such as Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, are all ripe for some transactional politics. West Bengal, which promises to be a tough election in 2021, might again see BJP within kissing distance of power and may need some TMC winners abandoning their party for the BJP to secure the&nbsp;42 parliamentary-seater state.

If Maharashtra, of the rich pickings, is indeed retaken without another election later in 2020 itself, Nadda will have established his mastery over his powerful job. In the process, Nadda would have also destroyed the credibility of the three-legged Aghadi, and ruined their dreams of a broader winning coalition in 2024.

But to do this, Nadda will have to move without being detected and apprehended in advance. Perhaps the emergence of the other Thackeray, Raj, complete with an eligible son of his own, and a newly minted saffron flag for his Party, MNS, is a ready step in the right direction.

And then there are three states going to the polls in 2021, including West Bengal.

Nadda, often credited with having won Uttar Pradesh for Amit Shah, is a seasoned player, trusted not only by the top brass in the BJP but also the RSS. He will have no problem in accessing the necessary human and other resources. What he will need in addition is originality and an element of surprise that outwits his opponents.

And here is inspiration. The mesmerizingly beautiful Jewish-Austrian Hollywood actress Hedy Lamarr from the 1930s and forties had an unexpected touch of real genius. Lamarr, who fled Nazi persecution, invented a communication process she called “Frequency Hopping”. It used over 80 frequencies in rapid and seemingly random succession, which made its signals virtually impossible to jam. She originally intended it for the American Navy to securely guide its torpedoes at German U Boats. The Germans routinely jammed all the radio frequencies except their own. This was the answer.

Today, Frequency Hopping is the basis of modern-day WiFi, Bluetooth, secure satellite communications, much military communications technology including the coding that activates nuclear weapons. It is also the first bastion against cyber-hacking.

JP Nadda will have to prove that the BJP magic that came into play with the Modi-Shah duo can be sustained into 2024 and beyond. If he can do this, he will wreck the hypothesis that the BJP can be driven back into a 160 odd seats party again. A party that had to resemble the Congress in order to survive at the time. &nbsp;

Modi-Shah have already broken that mould and inserted a strong bid for a “New India” with very different drummers to follow. Much of the policy thinking that has been put forward is the excitement for the BJP voter. On the other hand, it is anathema to the old Nehruvian order.

A political party like the BJP at this juncture can determine the future destiny of India. JP Nadda must bear in mind that “realpolitik” will demand that he does not fight shy of winning tactics and strategy. He must fight lies with truth, and lies too, if necessary. Well begun, as they say, is half done.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

Jagat Prakash Nadda from Himachal Pradesh, unfurled the national flag at BJP Headquarters on India’s 71st Republic Day, as the newly appointed BJP President. He has, with his elevation by the party top brass, added to the slim bench strength of heavyweights in the BJP.

Jagat Prakash Nadda from Himachal Pradesh, unfurled the national flag at BJP Headquarters on India’s 71st Republic Day, as the newly appointed BJP President. He has, with his elevation by the party top brass, added to the slim bench strength of heavyweights in the BJP. With a shrinking saffron footprint in the states, Nadda must show real ingenuity to make his mark as early as possible. The problem he faces is that of late there seems to be a disconnect between national and local issues. The Shah led BJP in its last stretch when Amit Shah has also been the country’s Home Minister, has been emphasising national issues during state election campaigns. States are understandably more concerned about their own problems. Also, there have been problems with ticket distribution vis a vis winnability, shown up most glaringly in Jharkhand, lost primarily to the tribal vote for lack of an alliance between JMD and the BJP. This can still be rectified by Nadda, with Prime Minister Modi being exceptionally warm to Soren already. Jharkhand was also where a rebel candidate trounced the misleading and complacent sitting chief minister. Nadda has a couple of near-ready potential scalps to take in the near future. No. 1 is the state of Delhi, in which the subversive, disappointingly corrupt, minority favouring and underperforming AAP, is due for a fall. The BJP could leverage its regularization of unauthorized colonies. The Purvanchal vote is some 30 per cent of the total, and BJP Delhi President Manoj Tiwari is not only a fresh face but also a popular Bhojpuri filmstar/singer. Can Nadda quietly orchestrate the coup from behind the scenes to install Tiwari as chief minister? The other opportunity is to wrest Maharashtra away from the Aghadi. It was won by the BJP and the Shiv Sena in the first place before the Shiv Sena decided to betray its own long-standing positions (and the voters). It can be retaken in the same fashion perhaps as Karnataka, where Nadda played a winning hand, or via a fresh assembly election if necessary. Bihar may also go to the polls near the end of 2020 and the retention of power there along with Nitish Kumar’s JD(U) will be of the greatest importance. The number of states in which BJP has won a near majority lately, but fell short, such as Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, are all ripe for some transactional politics. West Bengal, which promises to be a tough election in 2021, might again see BJP within kissing distance of power and may need some TMC winners abandoning their party for the BJP to secure the 42 parliamentary-seater state. If Maharashtra, of the rich pickings, is indeed retaken without another election later in 2020 itself, Nadda will have established his mastery over his powerful job. In the process, Nadda would have also destroyed the credibility of the three-legged Aghadi, and ruined their dreams of a broader winning coalition in 2024. But to do this, Nadda will have to move without being detected and apprehended in advance. Perhaps the emergence of the other Thackeray, Raj, complete with an eligible son of his own, and a newly minted saffron flag for his Party, MNS, is a ready step in the right direction. And then there are three states going to the polls in 2021, including West Bengal. Nadda, often credited with having won Uttar Pradesh for Amit Shah, is a seasoned player, trusted not only by the top brass in the BJP but also the RSS. He will have no problem in accessing the necessary human and other resources. What he will need in addition is originality and an element of surprise that outwits his opponents. And here is inspiration. The mesmerizingly beautiful Jewish-Austrian Hollywood actress Hedy Lamarr from the 1930s and forties had an unexpected touch of real genius. Lamarr, who fled Nazi persecution, invented a communication process she called “Frequency Hopping”. It used over 80 frequencies in rapid and seemingly random succession, which made its signals virtually impossible to jam. She originally intended it for the American Navy to securely guide its torpedoes at German U Boats. The Germans routinely jammed all the radio frequencies except their own. This was the answer. Today, Frequency Hopping is the basis of modern-day WiFi, Bluetooth, secure satellite communications, much military communications technology including the coding that activates nuclear weapons. It is also the first bastion against cyber-hacking. JP Nadda will have to prove that the BJP magic that came into play with the Modi-Shah duo can be sustained into 2024 and beyond. If he can do this, he will wreck the hypothesis that the BJP can be driven back into a 160 odd seats party again. A party that had to resemble the Congress in order to survive at the time. Modi-Shah have already broken that mould and inserted a strong bid for a “New India” with very different drummers to follow. Much of the policy thinking that has been put forward is the excitement for the BJP voter. On the other hand, it is anathema to the old Nehruvian order. A political party like the BJP at this juncture can determine the future destiny of India. JP Nadda must bear in mind that “realpolitik” will demand that he does not fight shy of winning tactics and strategy. He must fight lies with truth, and lies too, if necessary. Well begun, as they say, is half done. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

BJP President JP Nadda must show ingenuity to make his mark

The Indian economy faces multiple challenges. From slow consumption to falling incomes and low wages.

Less than six months ago — the International Monetary Fund had predicted that the Indian economy will grow by 6.1 per cent this year. 
But — it's not the first time that the economists have got their prediction wrong.

In November — India's GDP growth rate fell to less than five per cent. India's growth rate has been slipping for five quarters now.

The economic data has some clues — that explain the slowdown in India.

The biggest problem seems to be the demand. Key sectors are reporting a drop in their sales.

In September — the auto sales saw their worst ever fall in 21 years.

There was some recovery in November — but there was an overall drop in domestic sales.

India's top consumer goods companies reported a drop in sales all through this year.

The real estate sector remains in a state of a slump.

The IMF has listed weak income growth as one of the reasons behind the slowdown.

India remains a low-middle income country. The average income of an Indian is a little over 10,000 rupees. That's far less than most of the developed powers in the world.

Job creation has also taken a hit

Last year — a government report said that India's unemployment rate was at a 45 year high.

Another assessment claims that India has lost nine million jobs in six years till 2018.

Access to easy credit has also dried up. This was triggered by the collapse of Infrastructure Leasing &amp; Financial Services Limited (IL&amp;FS). The sudden fall of this institution led to a chain reaction.

Access to cheap credit dried up. It had an impact on the operations of several businessmen.

India's state-run banks to have been struggling with non-performing assets.

The slowdown poses a significant challenge to the Modi government.&nbsp;

Even the global economy is in a crisis mode. The world economy is slowing down — and this could exacerbate the crisis in India.

The Indian economy faces multiple challenges. From slow consumption to falling incomes and low wages. Less than six months ago — the International Monetary Fund had predicted that the Indian economy will grow by 6.

The Indian economy faces multiple challenges. From slow consumption to falling incomes and low wages. Less than six months ago — the International Monetary Fund had predicted that the Indian economy will grow by 6.1 per cent this year. But — it's not the first time that the economists have got their prediction wrong. In November — India's GDP growth rate fell to less than five per cent. India's growth rate has been slipping for five quarters now. The economic data has some clues — that explain the slowdown in India. The biggest problem seems to be the demand. Key sectors are reporting a drop in their sales. In September — the auto sales saw their worst ever fall in 21 years. There was some recovery in November — but there was an overall drop in domestic sales. India's top consumer goods companies reported a drop in sales all through this year. The real estate sector remains in a state of a slump. The IMF has listed weak income growth as one of the reasons behind the slowdown. India remains a low-middle income country. The average income of an Indian is a little over 10,000 rupees. That's far less than most of the developed powers in the world. Job creation has also taken a hit Last year — a government report said that India's unemployment rate was at a 45 year high. Another assessment claims that India has lost nine million jobs in six years till 2018. Access to easy credit has also dried up. This was triggered by the collapse of Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Limited (IL&FS). The sudden fall of this institution led to a chain reaction. Access to cheap credit dried up. It had an impact on the operations of several businessmen. India's state-run banks to have been struggling with non-performing assets. The slowdown poses a significant challenge to the Modi government. Even the global economy is in a crisis mode. The world economy is slowing down — and this could exacerbate the crisis in India.

Decoding Indian economic slowdown: Slow consumption, falling income, low wages

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paralysis-in-iraq-as-protesters-harden-position-270033">Iraq's parliament</a> approved&nbsp;on Tuesday a new electoral law, a key demand of protesters to make elections fairer, but political deadlock is still holding up the selection of an interim prime minister.

Mass protests have gripped Iraq since October&nbsp;1 and protesters, most of them young, are demanding an overhaul of a political system they see as profoundly corrupt and keeping most Iraqis in poverty. More than 450 people have been killed.

"In the name of Iraq, and in the name of the Iraqi people, in the name of the martyrs, in the name of all those who sacrificed, in the name of the displaced, the law has been approved," Council of Representatives Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi said after the vote.

Watch:&nbsp;Thousands protest in Iraq ahead of deadline to name new PM

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The new election law passed by parliament will allow voters to elect individual lawmakers instead of choosing from party lists and have each member of parliament represent a specific electoral district instead of groups of legislators representing entire provinces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-in-iraq-as-deadline-for-new-pm-looms-269585">Protesters have demanded not just a new electoral law</a>, but also the removal of the entire political class and an independent prime minister with no party affiliation.

Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi resigned last month under pressure from the street demonstrations but has remained in office in a caretaker capacity. The constitutional deadline to name a replacement expired on Thursday.

Iraq's parliament approved on Tuesday a new electoral law, a key demand of protesters to make elections fairer, but political deadlock is still holding up the selection of an interim prime minister.

Iraq's parliament approved on Tuesday a new electoral law, a key demand of protesters to make elections fairer, but political deadlock is still holding up the selection of an interim prime minister. Mass protests have gripped Iraq since October 1 and protesters, most of them young, are demanding an overhaul of a political system they see as profoundly corrupt and keeping most Iraqis in poverty. More than 450 people have been killed. "In the name of Iraq, and in the name of the Iraqi people, in the name of the martyrs, in the name of all those who sacrificed, in the name of the displaced, the law has been approved," Council of Representatives Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi said after the vote. Watch: Thousands protest in Iraq ahead of deadline to name new PM The new election law passed by parliament will allow voters to elect individual lawmakers instead of choosing from party lists and have each member of parliament represent a specific electoral district instead of groups of legislators representing entire provinces. Protesters have demanded not just a new electoral law, but also the removal of the entire political class and an independent prime minister with no party affiliation. Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi resigned last month under pressure from the street demonstrations but has remained in office in a caretaker capacity. The constitutional deadline to name a replacement expired on Thursday.

Individual leaders, not party politicians to lead Iraq as new election law comes to effect

Amidst a pronounced economic slowdown in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-shares-largely-flat-yes-bank-indiabulls-real-estate-rise-269903">India</a>, the <a href="&lt;div class=&quot;videoWrapper trancodeVideo&quot;&gt;&lt;iframe src=&quot;https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/imf-sidesteps-clash-with-us-over-funding-delays-shareholding-changes-to-2023-256885/embed&quot; width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;350&quot; style=&quot;width:100%;max-width:560px;&quot; class=&quot;includeVideo&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; autoplay=1 allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">International Monetary Fund (IMF)</a> issued a warning today calling for immediate action to fix the slowdown. According to IMF, ''urgent policy actions'' are required to reverse the slowdown.

In its annual review, the IMF blamed slowing consumption and investment for crippling the country's GDP growth. The effects are more pronounced because of falling tax revenue, considering India was one of the fastest-growing economies in the world just last year.&nbsp;

According to the report, more efforts by the Indian government are needed to fix the slowdown.

For long, the IMF has maintained a macroeconomic outlook on India which has become more subdued in recent years.

Watch:&nbsp;IMF -&nbsp;India now in midst of major economic slowdown, needs urgent action

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The report stressed the importance of long-term remedies but also said that growth has been strong in recent years. However, growth has not led to job creation and low food prices, which is contributing to rural distress.

Earlier in October, the IMF had slashed its forecast for Indian GDP's growth by nearly a full point to 6.1 per cent pertaining to the financial year 2019-20.

Additionally, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-pm-asks-world-bank-imf-help-with-economic-rescue-plan-267959">the organisation</a> has projected inflation to remain at around 3.4 per cent, with effects of less demand set to become pronounced over the next few months.

Food prices have increased in the country lately, pushing the retail inflation rate in November to a three-year high of 5.54 per cent.

The industrial sector output shrank for the third month in a row in October by 3.8 per cent, further indicating a slowdown in the economy.&nbsp;

Even then, India's fiscal deficit has already crossed 7 trillion Rupees, surpassing the annual target in seven months.&nbsp;

The Reserve Bank of India recently tried to contain the slowdown by cutting the key lending rate five times this year to a nine-year low. However, the policy was kept unchanged in a key meeting earlier this month.

Amidst a pronounced economic slowdown in India, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) issued a warning today calling for immediate action to fix the slowdown. According to IMF, ''urgent policy actions'' are required to reverse the slowdown.

Amidst a pronounced economic slowdown in India, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) issued a warning today calling for immediate action to fix the slowdown. According to IMF, ''urgent policy actions'' are required to reverse the slowdown. In its annual review, the IMF blamed slowing consumption and investment for crippling the country's GDP growth. The effects are more pronounced because of falling tax revenue, considering India was one of the fastest-growing economies in the world just last year. According to the report, more efforts by the Indian government are needed to fix the slowdown. For long, the IMF has maintained a macroeconomic outlook on India which has become more subdued in recent years. Watch: IMF - India now in midst of major economic slowdown, needs urgent action The report stressed the importance of long-term remedies but also said that growth has been strong in recent years. However, growth has not led to job creation and low food prices, which is contributing to rural distress. Earlier in October, the IMF had slashed its forecast for Indian GDP's growth by nearly a full point to 6.1 per cent pertaining to the financial year 2019-20. Additionally, the organisation has projected inflation to remain at around 3.4 per cent, with effects of less demand set to become pronounced over the next few months. Food prices have increased in the country lately, pushing the retail inflation rate in November to a three-year high of 5.54 per cent. The industrial sector output shrank for the third month in a row in October by 3.8 per cent, further indicating a slowdown in the economy. Even then, India's fiscal deficit has already crossed 7 trillion Rupees, surpassing the annual target in seven months. The Reserve Bank of India recently tried to contain the slowdown by cutting the key lending rate five times this year to a nine-year low. However, the policy was kept unchanged in a key meeting earlier this month.

Indian economic slowdown: International Monetary Fund calls for 'urgent' action

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-democrats-introduce-two-articles-of-impeachment-against-president-trump-267510">charges of impeachment</a> against Donald Trump were announced, he dismissed the accusations by calling them ''ridiculous''.

Trump might become the third United States president to be impeached if the House of Representatives back the charges.&nbsp;

He referred to this as a ''WITCH HUNT!".

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WITCH HUNT!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1204414691910410242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, senior Democratic lawmaker Jerry Nadler announced the charges that Trump pressured Ukraine to open a corruption probe purely for the aim of embarrassing one of his 2020 reelection rivals.

"Ridiculous, and he knows that is not true," Trump tweeted.

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Nadler just said that I “pressured Ukraine to interfere in our 2020 Election.” Ridiculous, and he knows that is not true. Both the President &amp; Foreign Minister of Ukraine said, many times, that there “WAS NO PRESSURE.” Nadler and the Dems know this, but refuse to acknowledge!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1204414588650807302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Separately, White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham called the impeachment articles a "partisan, gratuitous, and pathetic attempt to overthrow the Trump Administration and the results of the 2016 election."

Democrats in the US House of Representatives today introduced two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump. Trump has been charged with abusing power and obstructing Congress.

Jerrold Nadler, Judiciary Committee Chairman said that '''(Trump) sees himself as above the law... We must be clear, no one, not even the president, is above the law.''

The committee is expected to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-democrats-expected-to-unveil-two-articles-of-impeachment-against-trump-267354">take up the articles</a> later this week in the next step of impeaching Trump.

(With inputs from AFP)

After charges of impeachment against Donald Trump were announced, he dismissed the accusations by calling them ''ridiculous''. Trump might become the third United States president to be impeached if the House of Representatives back the charges.

After charges of impeachment against Donald Trump were announced, he dismissed the accusations by calling them ''ridiculous''. Trump might become the third United States president to be impeached if the House of Representatives back the charges. He referred to this as a ''WITCH HUNT!". WITCH HUNT! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 10, 2019 × Earlier, senior Democratic lawmaker Jerry Nadler announced the charges that Trump pressured Ukraine to open a corruption probe purely for the aim of embarrassing one of his 2020 reelection rivals. "Ridiculous, and he knows that is not true," Trump tweeted. Nadler just said that I “pressured Ukraine to interfere in our 2020 Election.” Ridiculous, and he knows that is not true. Both the President & Foreign Minister of Ukraine said, many times, that there “WAS NO PRESSURE.” Nadler and the Dems know this, but refuse to acknowledge! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 10, 2019 × Separately, White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham called the impeachment articles a "partisan, gratuitous, and pathetic attempt to overthrow the Trump Administration and the results of the 2016 election." Democrats in the US House of Representatives today introduced two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump. Trump has been charged with abusing power and obstructing Congress. Jerrold Nadler, Judiciary Committee Chairman said that '''(Trump) sees himself as above the law... We must be clear, no one, not even the president, is above the law.'' The committee is expected to take up the articles later this week in the next step of impeaching Trump. (With inputs from AFP)

Trump refers to charges of impeachment as 'ridiculous'

The leaders of world powers including Canada, Britain, the Netherlands, and France were recently caught on camera mocking US President Donald Trump's lengthy media appearances before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-macrons-criticism-of-nato-very-very-nasty-before-summit-266035">NATO Summit</a>. The clip was filmed at a Buckingham Palace reception.

A British host's camera pool caught the footage on Tuesday evening, which was later subtitled by Canada's CBC. The summit will happen in Watford, outside London.

Macron's meeting with Trump that happened before the summit on Tuesday was proceeded by a media session, whereby leaders publicly discussed NATO strategy and trade. 
 
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson can be heard asking France's President Emmanuel Macron, "Is that why you were late?"

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau interjects, "He was late because he takes a 40-minute press conference off the top." 
In the video, Macron appears to tell an anecdote about the encounter as Britain's Princess Anne and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte look on, but the French leader's back is to the camera and he is inaudible amid the hubbub.

"Oh, yeah, yeah, he announced..." Trudeau declares, adding, "You just watched his team's jaw drop to the floor." 
 
Trump exhibited similar behaviour last year when he trespassed summit protocol and instead used the platform to field questions from global media.

He has condemned "nasty" Macron's criticism of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cool-it-france-and-germany-to-tell-trump-at-nato-talks-266086">brain dead NATO</a>, branded European countries that have failed to meet military spending targets "delinquent" and criticised moves in Washington to impeach him.

Trump is due to give another news conference alone later today after the 29 NATO leaders hold a full three-hour closed-door summit session. Later, a statement celebrating their unity shall be commissioned.

(With inputs from AFP)

The leaders of world powers including Canada, Britain, the Netherlands, and France were recently caught on camera mocking US President Donald Trump's lengthy media appearances before the NATO Summit.

The leaders of world powers including Canada, Britain, the Netherlands, and France were recently caught on camera mocking US President Donald Trump's lengthy media appearances before the NATO Summit. The clip was filmed at a Buckingham Palace reception. A British host's camera pool caught the footage on Tuesday evening, which was later subtitled by Canada's CBC. The summit will happen in Watford, outside London. Macron's meeting with Trump that happened before the summit on Tuesday was proceeded by a media session, whereby leaders publicly discussed NATO strategy and trade. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson can be heard asking France's President Emmanuel Macron, "Is that why you were late?" Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau interjects, "He was late because he takes a 40-minute press conference off the top." In the video, Macron appears to tell an anecdote about the encounter as Britain's Princess Anne and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte look on, but the French leader's back is to the camera and he is inaudible amid the hubbub. "Oh, yeah, yeah, he announced..." Trudeau declares, adding, "You just watched his team's jaw drop to the floor." Trump exhibited similar behaviour last year when he trespassed summit protocol and instead used the platform to field questions from global media. He has condemned "nasty" Macron's criticism of brain dead NATO, branded European countries that have failed to meet military spending targets "delinquent" and criticised moves in Washington to impeach him. Trump is due to give another news conference alone later today after the 29 NATO leaders hold a full three-hour closed-door summit session. Later, a statement celebrating their unity shall be commissioned. (With inputs from AFP)

NATO leaders including Trudeau, Macron caught mocking Trump on camera

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-may-run-out-of-money-by-end-of-the-month-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-254359">The United Nations</a> Security Council's president, South African ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila, appealed to Turkey Wednesday to "protect civilians" and exercise "maximum restraint" in its military operations in Syria.

Matjila expressed hope the council could meet quickly on the situation but stressed it was up to drafters of resolutions on Syria to convene such a session.

Belgium, Germany and Kuwait are the council members designated to follow the humanitarian situation in Syria, so it would fall to them to convene a council session.

The South African diplomat, who holds the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-says-this-must-stop-after-iraqi-protest-violence-kills-nearly-100-253995">council presidency</a> for the month of October, spoke before the start of a meeting devoted to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan earlier announced the start of a military operation against a western-backed Kurdish militia in Syria that Ankara has long regarded as a foe.

The United Nations Security Council's president, South African ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila, appealed to Turkey Wednesday to "protect civilians" and exercise "maximum restraint" in its military operations in Syria.

The United Nations Security Council's president, South African ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila, appealed to Turkey Wednesday to "protect civilians" and exercise "maximum restraint" in its military operations in Syria. Matjila expressed hope the council could meet quickly on the situation but stressed it was up to drafters of resolutions on Syria to convene such a session. Belgium, Germany and Kuwait are the council members designated to follow the humanitarian situation in Syria, so it would fall to them to convene a council session. The South African diplomat, who holds the council presidency for the month of October, spoke before the start of a meeting devoted to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan earlier announced the start of a military operation against a western-backed Kurdish militia in Syria that Ankara has long regarded as a foe.

United Nations Security Council head appeals to Turkey for restraint in Syria

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