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United States's first openly transgender member of Congress will not be allowed to use the women's restrooms in Capitol buildings. On Wednesday (Nov 20), House Speaker Mike Johnson voiced his support for banning the newly elected transgender Congresswoman from using women's restrooms and said that they are "reserved for individuals of that biological sex".&nbsp;

"All single-sex facilities in the Capitol and House Office Buildings -- such as restrooms, changing rooms and locker rooms -- are reserved for individuals of that biological sex," Speaker Mike Johnson said in a statement.

<h2>McBride responds</h2>

Despite disagreeing with the restrictions, McBride stated she would comply. "Each of us were sent here because voters saw something in us that they value," McBride shared on social media.&nbsp;

She also expressed hope for mutual respect among congressional members and added: "I look forward to seeing those qualities in every member come January. I hope all my colleagues will seek to do the same with me."

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I’m not here to fight about bathrooms. I’m here to fight for Delawareans and to bring down costs facing families. <a href="https://t.co/bCuv7pIZBY">pic.twitter.com/bCuv7pIZBY</a>
— Sarah McBride (@SarahEMcBride) <a href="https://twitter.com/SarahEMcBride/status/1859316328793862610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The ban on McBride's restroom use follows her historic election earlier this month as the first openly transgender member of Congress. The Democratic congresswoman, as per reports, has received a cold welcome&nbsp;from her Republican colleagues, who maintain&nbsp;control of the House after the November elections.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cannot-defeat-us-hezbollah-leader-naim-qassem-rejects-ceasefire-terms-777860">'Israel cannot defeat us': Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejects ceasefire terms</a>

<h2>Republicans push bill for broader restrictions</h2>

Representative Nancy Mace, a South Carolina Republican and Trump ally, earlier this week introduced a resolution to restrict transgender women's restroom access in Capitol facilities.

On Wednesday, Mace expanded her proposal, introducing legislation to apply similar restrictions across all federal properties. &nbsp;

In a statement on social media, Mace said, "biological men do not belong in private women's spaces. Period. Full stop. End of story." &nbsp;

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Biological men do not belong in private women’s spaces. Period. Full stop. End of story. <a href="https://t.co/IhR7kExkBU">pic.twitter.com/IhR7kExkBU</a>
— Rep. Nancy Mace (@RepNancyMace) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepNancyMace/status/1858659671910817924?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-migrants-set-out-on-2600-kilometre-trek-to-us-border-before-trump-takes-office-777880">Hundreds of migrants set out on 2,600-kilometre trek to US border before Trump takes office</a>

In another post, she called McBride's acceptance of the ban "a step toward acknowledging the rights of women everywhere".

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Sarah McBride’s promise to abide by Speaker Johnson's policy is a step toward acknowledging the rights of women everywhere—something we’ll continue to demand without compromise.
— Rep. Nancy Mace (@RepNancyMace) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepNancyMace/status/1859334452431753663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Democrats and LGBTQ advocates react</h2>

Democrats and LGBTQ rights advocates denounced Mace's resolution and Johnson's support, calling it an affront to transgender dignity.&nbsp;

The ban controversy unfolded on Transgender Day of Remembrance, a day dedicated to honouring transgender individuals killed due to anti-trans violence — held each year on November 20. President Joe Biden issued a statement commemorating the day but avoided addressing the Capitol restroom debate directly. &nbsp;

"Too many transgender Americans, including young people, are cruelly targeted and face harassment simply for being themselves," said the outgoing US President.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States's first openly transgender member of Congress will not be allowed to use the women's restrooms in Capitol buildings. On Wednesday (Nov 20), House Speaker Mike Johnson voiced his support for banning the newly elected transgender Congresswoman from using women's restrooms and said that they are "reserved for individuals of that biological sex".

United States's first openly transgender member of Congress will not be allowed to use the women's restrooms in Capitol buildings. On Wednesday (Nov 20), House Speaker Mike Johnson voiced his support for banning the newly elected transgender Congresswoman from using women's restrooms and said that they are "reserved for individuals of that biological sex". "All single-sex facilities in the Capitol and House Office Buildings -- such as restrooms, changing rooms and locker rooms -- are reserved for individuals of that biological sex," Speaker Mike Johnson said in a statement. McBride responds Despite disagreeing with the restrictions, McBride stated she would comply. "Each of us were sent here because voters saw something in us that they value," McBride shared on social media. She also expressed hope for mutual respect among congressional members and added: "I look forward to seeing those qualities in every member come January. I hope all my colleagues will seek to do the same with me." I’m not here to fight about bathrooms. I’m here to fight for Delawareans and to bring down costs facing families. pic.twitter.com/bCuv7pIZBY — Sarah McBride (@SarahEMcBride) November 20, 2024 × The ban on McBride's restroom use follows her historic election earlier this month as the first openly transgender member of Congress. The Democratic congresswoman, as per reports, has received a cold welcome from her Republican colleagues, who maintain control of the House after the November elections. Also read | 'Israel cannot defeat us': Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejects ceasefire terms Republicans push bill for broader restrictions Representative Nancy Mace, a South Carolina Republican and Trump ally, earlier this week introduced a resolution to restrict transgender women's restroom access in Capitol facilities. On Wednesday, Mace expanded her proposal, introducing legislation to apply similar restrictions across all federal properties. In a statement on social media, Mace said, "biological men do not belong in private women's spaces. Period. Full stop. End of story." Biological men do not belong in private women’s spaces. Period. Full stop. End of story. pic.twitter.com/IhR7kExkBU — Rep. Nancy Mace (@RepNancyMace) November 18, 2024 × Also read | Hundreds of migrants set out on 2,600-kilometre trek to US border before Trump takes office In another post, she called McBride's acceptance of the ban "a step toward acknowledging the rights of women everywhere". Sarah McBride’s promise to abide by Speaker Johnson's policy is a step toward acknowledging the rights of women everywhere—something we’ll continue to demand without compromise. — Rep. Nancy Mace (@RepNancyMace) November 20, 2024 × Democrats and LGBTQ advocates react Democrats and LGBTQ rights advocates denounced Mace's resolution and Johnson's support, calling it an affront to transgender dignity. The ban controversy unfolded on Transgender Day of Remembrance, a day dedicated to honouring transgender individuals killed due to anti-trans violence — held each year on November 20. President Joe Biden issued a statement commemorating the day but avoided addressing the Capitol restroom debate directly. "Too many transgender Americans, including young people, are cruelly targeted and face harassment simply for being themselves," said the outgoing US President. (With inputs from agencies)

Republicans ban US' first openly transgender congresswoman from using women's restrooms in Capitol

UN nuclear watchdog IAEA said that the Iranian site targeted by Israel was not a nuclear facility. Agency Chief Rafael Grossi said that the agency did not consider Iran's Parchin site a nuclear facility after Israel claimed that it hit Tehran's nuclear program in a strike last month. Watch in for more details!

UN Nuclear Watchdog Chief Rafael Grossi Speaks To Media In Vienna

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Karnataka government-affiliated hospitals have raised their rates by 20%, affecting various medical services. The increase comes amid rising operational costs and has sparked concerns about accessibility to healthcare.

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Matt Gaetz, who was tapped by US President-elect Donald Trump as the next US attorney general, has withdrawn his name from consideration.&nbsp;

"I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday, I appreciate their thoughtful feedback - and the incredible support of so many. While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition," Gaetz wrote on X.

"There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I'll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General. Trump's DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1."

"I remain fully committed to see that Donald J. Trump is the most successful President in history. I will forever be honored that President Trump nominated me to lead the Department of Justice and I'm certain he will Save America."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjg2ZTDg-6JAxViTmwGHZkFG5AQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-and-donald-trump-is-the-honeymoon-over-already-body-language-changes-raise-eyebrows-777950" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-and-donald-trump-is-the-honeymoon-over-already-body-language-changes-raise-eyebrows-777950&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjg2ZTDg-6JAxViTmwGHZkFG5AQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">Elon Musk and Donald Trump - Is the honeymoon over already? Body language changes raise eyebrows</a>

Gaetz's nomination triggered a political storm in US as he faces a nearly three-year Justice Department investigation into sex trafficking allegations involving a 17-year-old girl. He denies the allegations and has not faced criminal charges.

Gaetz also attracted scrutiny by the House Ethics Committee over wider allegations including sexual misconduct, illicit drug use and accepting improper gifts.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjg2ZTDg-6JAxViTmwGHZkFG5AQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-trumps-inner-circle-cracking-musk-and-trumps-legal-adviser-had-a-blow-up-report-suggests-777218" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/is-trumps-inner-circle-cracking-musk-and-trumps-legal-adviser-had-a-blow-up-report-suggests-777218&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjg2ZTDg-6JAxViTmwGHZkFG5AQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Is Trump`s inner circle cracking? Musk and Trump`s legal adviser had a blow-up, report suggests</a>

The inquiry was dropped on November 13 when Gaetz left Congress, the forum where the committee has jurisdiction. The Senate ethics committee is deadlocked on whether their report can be released.

Earlier in the day, it was reported by the New York Times that&nbsp;federal investigators in the United States have compiled a detailed chart outlining payments by Matt Gaetz and his associates, suggesting involvement in drug-fuelled sex parties.

The document&nbsp;traces Venmo transactions between Gaetz, his friends, and women who allegedly participated in these events — among them are the two who alleged he had hired them for sex.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Matt Gaetz, who was tapped by US President-elect Donald Trump as the next US attorney general, has withdrawn his name from consideration. "I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday, I appreciate their thoughtful feedback - and the incredible support of so many.

Matt Gaetz, who was tapped by US President-elect Donald Trump as the next US attorney general, has withdrawn his name from consideration. "I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday, I appreciate their thoughtful feedback - and the incredible support of so many. While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition," Gaetz wrote on X. "There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I'll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General. Trump's DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1." "I remain fully committed to see that Donald J. Trump is the most successful President in history. I will forever be honored that President Trump nominated me to lead the Department of Justice and I'm certain he will Save America." Also read: Elon Musk and Donald Trump - Is the honeymoon over already? Body language changes raise eyebrows Gaetz's nomination triggered a political storm in US as he faces a nearly three-year Justice Department investigation into sex trafficking allegations involving a 17-year-old girl. He denies the allegations and has not faced criminal charges. Gaetz also attracted scrutiny by the House Ethics Committee over wider allegations including sexual misconduct, illicit drug use and accepting improper gifts. Also read: Is Trump`s inner circle cracking? Musk and Trump`s legal adviser had a blow-up, report suggests The inquiry was dropped on November 13 when Gaetz left Congress, the forum where the committee has jurisdiction. The Senate ethics committee is deadlocked on whether their report can be released. Earlier in the day, it was reported by the New York Times that federal investigators in the United States have compiled a detailed chart outlining payments by Matt Gaetz and his associates, suggesting involvement in drug-fuelled sex parties. The document traces Venmo transactions between Gaetz, his friends, and women who allegedly participated in these events — among them are the two who alleged he had hired them for sex. (With inputs from agencies)

Matt Gaetz, Trump's pick for next US attorney general, withdraws name from consideration

The United States on Wednesday vetoed a UN&nbsp;Security Council resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza, drawing criticism of the Biden administration for once again blocking international action aimed at halting Israel's war with Hamas.

The 15-member council voted on a resolution put forward by 10 non-permanent members that called for an "immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" in the 13-month conflict and separately demanded the release of hostages.

Only the US&nbsp;voted against, using its veto as a permanent council member to block the resolution.

Robert Wood, deputy US&nbsp;ambassador to the UN, said Washington had made clear it would only support a resolution that explicitly calls for the immediate release of hostages as part of a ceasefire.

"A durable end to the war must come with the release of the hostages. These two urgent goals are inextricably linked. This resolution abandoned that necessity, and for that reason, the United States could not support it," he said.

Wood said the US&nbsp;had sought compromise, but the text of the proposed resolution would have sent a "dangerous message" to Palestinian militant group Hamas that "there's no need to come back to the negotiating table."

Israel's campaign in Gaza has killed nearly 44,000 people and displaced nearly all the enclave's population at least once. It was launched in response to an attack by Hamas-led fighters who killed 1,200 people and captured more than 250 hostages in Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.

Members roundly criticized the US&nbsp;for blocking the resolution put forward by the council's 10 elected members: Algeria, Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia and Switzerland.

"It is deeply regretted that due to the use of the veto this council has once again failed to uphold its responsibility to maintain international peace and security," Malta's UN&nbsp;Ambassador Vanessa Frazier said after the vote failed, adding that the text of the resolution "was by no means a maximalist one."

"It represented the bare minimum of what is needed to begin to address the desperate situation on the ground," she said. 
Food security experts have warned that famine is imminent among Gaza's 2.3 million people.

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden, who leaves office on Jan. 20, has offered Israel strong diplomatic backing and continued to provide arms for the war, while trying unsuccessfully to broker a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that would see hostages released in exchange for Palestinians held by Israel.

After blocking earlier resolutions on Gaza, Washington in March abstained from a vote that allowed a resolution to pass demanding an immediate ceasefire.

A senior US&nbsp;official, who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity ahead of Wednesday's vote, said Britain had put forward new language that the US&nbsp;would have supported as a compromise, but that was rejected by the elected members.

Some members were more interested in bringing about a US&nbsp;veto than compromising on the resolution, the official said, accusing US&nbsp;adversaries Russia and China of encouraging those members.

<h2>'Green light'</h2>

France's ambassador Nicolas de Riviere said the resolution rejected by the US&nbsp;"very firmly" required the release of hostages.

"France still has two hostages in Gaza, and we deeply regret that the Security Council was not able to formulate this demand," he said.

China's UN&nbsp;ambassador, Fu Cong, said each time the United States had exercised its veto to protect Israel, the number of people killed in Gaza had steadily risen.

"How many more people have to die before they wake up from their pretend slumber?" he asked.

"Insistence on setting a precondition for ceasefire is tantamount to giving the green light to continue the war and condoning the continued killing."

Israel's UN&nbsp;ambassador Danny Danon said ahead of the vote the text was not a resolution for peace but was "a resolution for appeasement" of Hamas.

"History will remember who stood with the hostages and who abandoned them," Danon said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The United States on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza, drawing criticism of the Biden administration for once again blocking international action aimed at halting Israel's war with Hamas.

The United States on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza, drawing criticism of the Biden administration for once again blocking international action aimed at halting Israel's war with Hamas. The 15-member council voted on a resolution put forward by 10 non-permanent members that called for an "immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" in the 13-month conflict and separately demanded the release of hostages. Only the US voted against, using its veto as a permanent council member to block the resolution. Robert Wood, deputy US ambassador to the UN, said Washington had made clear it would only support a resolution that explicitly calls for the immediate release of hostages as part of a ceasefire. "A durable end to the war must come with the release of the hostages. These two urgent goals are inextricably linked. This resolution abandoned that necessity, and for that reason, the United States could not support it," he said. Wood said the US had sought compromise, but the text of the proposed resolution would have sent a "dangerous message" to Palestinian militant group Hamas that "there's no need to come back to the negotiating table." Israel's campaign in Gaza has killed nearly 44,000 people and displaced nearly all the enclave's population at least once. It was launched in response to an attack by Hamas-led fighters who killed 1,200 people and captured more than 250 hostages in Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. Members roundly criticized the US for blocking the resolution put forward by the council's 10 elected members: Algeria, Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia and Switzerland. "It is deeply regretted that due to the use of the veto this council has once again failed to uphold its responsibility to maintain international peace and security," Malta's UN Ambassador Vanessa Frazier said after the vote failed, adding that the text of the resolution "was by no means a maximalist one." "It represented the bare minimum of what is needed to begin to address the desperate situation on the ground," she said. Food security experts have warned that famine is imminent among Gaza's 2.3 million people. US President Joe Biden, who leaves office on Jan. 20, has offered Israel strong diplomatic backing and continued to provide arms for the war, while trying unsuccessfully to broker a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that would see hostages released in exchange for Palestinians held by Israel. After blocking earlier resolutions on Gaza, Washington in March abstained from a vote that allowed a resolution to pass demanding an immediate ceasefire. A senior US official, who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity ahead of Wednesday's vote, said Britain had put forward new language that the US would have supported as a compromise, but that was rejected by the elected members. Some members were more interested in bringing about a US veto than compromising on the resolution, the official said, accusing US adversaries Russia and China of encouraging those members. 'Green light' France's ambassador Nicolas de Riviere said the resolution rejected by the US "very firmly" required the release of hostages. "France still has two hostages in Gaza, and we deeply regret that the Security Council was not able to formulate this demand," he said. China's UN ambassador, Fu Cong, said each time the United States had exercised its veto to protect Israel, the number of people killed in Gaza had steadily risen. "How many more people have to die before they wake up from their pretend slumber?" he asked. "Insistence on setting a precondition for ceasefire is tantamount to giving the green light to continue the war and condoning the continued killing." Israel's UN ambassador Danny Danon said ahead of the vote the text was not a resolution for peace but was "a resolution for appeasement" of Hamas. "History will remember who stood with the hostages and who abandoned them," Danon said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israel-Hamas war: US vetoes UNSC resolution on ceasefire

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday (Nov. 21), for crimes against humanity and war crimes, as the West Asia crisis continues.&nbsp;

It further classified the arrest warrants as “secret” to safeguard the conduct of the investigations.&nbsp;

“The Chamber issued warrants of arrest for two individuals, Mr Benjamin Netanyahu and Mr Yoav Gallant, for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least 8 October 2023 until at least 20 May 2024, the day the Prosecution filed the applications for warrants of arrest,” the ICC stated in its statement.&nbsp;

The statement read that the chamber found “reasonable grounds” to believe that Netanyahu and Gallant, at the time of the alleged conduct, each bear criminal responsibility for the following crimes as co-perpetrators for committing the acts jointly with others: the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare; and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icc-to-probe-alleged-war-crimes-in-palestinian-territories-269444">Also read:&nbsp;US Congress invites Israeli PM Netanyahu to speak amid ICC warrant controversy and Gaza crisis</a>

“The Chamber also found reasonable grounds to believe that Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant each bear criminal responsibility as civilian superiors for the war crime of intentionally directing an attack against the civilian population,” it added.&nbsp;

The ICC also issued an arrest warrant for Hamas leader Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri (also known as Mohammed Deif).

The court “unanimously” decided to issue an arrest warrant for Hamas’s military commander Mohammed al-Masri “for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes committed on the territory of the State of Israel and the State of Palestine from at least 7 October 2023”.

It further accused him of crims including murder, torture, rape and other forms of sexual violence.&nbsp;

Israel, however, has claimed to have killed Deif in an air raid in southern Gaza in July. But the ICC decided to proceed with the warrant, saying it was “not in a position to determine whether [he] has been killed or remains alive”.

<h2>'Antisemitic decision'</h2>

Following this, the Prime Minister’s office declared in a statement on Thursday that the ICC’s “antisemitic decision” to issue arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant “is equivalent to a modern Dreyfus trial.”

The PMO vowed that the court’s decision would not deter Israel from protecting its citizens, adding that it rejected “with disgust” the court’s “false” and “absurd” charges — and asserted that they stem from Khan’s efforts to “save his skin from the serious charges against him for sexual harassment” as well as the beliefs of “biased judges motivated by antisemitic hatred of Israel.”

“That is why the prosecutor lied when he told American senators that he would not act against Israel before he got here and heard its side. That is why he suddenly canceled his arrival in Israel last May, a few days after suspicions were raised against him for sexual harassment, and announced his intention to issue arrest warrants against the prime minister and former defense minister,” the PMO charged.

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday (Nov.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday (Nov. 21), for crimes against humanity and war crimes, as the West Asia crisis continues. It further classified the arrest warrants as “secret” to safeguard the conduct of the investigations. “The Chamber issued warrants of arrest for two individuals, Mr Benjamin Netanyahu and Mr Yoav Gallant, for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least 8 October 2023 until at least 20 May 2024, the day the Prosecution filed the applications for warrants of arrest,” the ICC stated in its statement. The statement read that the chamber found “reasonable grounds” to believe that Netanyahu and Gallant, at the time of the alleged conduct, each bear criminal responsibility for the following crimes as co-perpetrators for committing the acts jointly with others: the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare; and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts. Also read: US Congress invites Israeli PM Netanyahu to speak amid ICC warrant controversy and Gaza crisis “The Chamber also found reasonable grounds to believe that Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant each bear criminal responsibility as civilian superiors for the war crime of intentionally directing an attack against the civilian population,” it added. The ICC also issued an arrest warrant for Hamas leader Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri (also known as Mohammed Deif). The court “unanimously” decided to issue an arrest warrant for Hamas’s military commander Mohammed al-Masri “for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes committed on the territory of the State of Israel and the State of Palestine from at least 7 October 2023”. It further accused him of crims including murder, torture, rape and other forms of sexual violence. Israel, however, has claimed to have killed Deif in an air raid in southern Gaza in July. But the ICC decided to proceed with the warrant, saying it was “not in a position to determine whether [he] has been killed or remains alive”. 'Antisemitic decision' Following this, the Prime Minister’s office declared in a statement on Thursday that the ICC’s “antisemitic decision” to issue arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant “is equivalent to a modern Dreyfus trial.” The PMO vowed that the court’s decision would not deter Israel from protecting its citizens, adding that it rejected “with disgust” the court’s “false” and “absurd” charges — and asserted that they stem from Khan’s efforts to “save his skin from the serious charges against him for sexual harassment” as well as the beliefs of “biased judges motivated by antisemitic hatred of Israel.” “That is why the prosecutor lied when he told American senators that he would not act against Israel before he got here and heard its side. That is why he suddenly canceled his arrival in Israel last May, a few days after suspicions were raised against him for sexual harassment, and announced his intention to issue arrest warrants against the prime minister and former defense minister,” the PMO charged. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

ICC issues arrest warrants against Israeli PM Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas leader over war crimes

Indian billionaire industrialist, Gautam Adani along with seven others, has been charged by US prosecutors for allegedly paying hundreds and millions of dollars in bribes to win lucrative contracts.

Prosecutors allege that the chairman of Adani Group orchestrated a $250 million bribery scheme involving Indian government officials, all to secure lucrative solar energy contracts.

In a statement,&nbsp;Adani Green acknowledged the charges by the US DoJ and announced that in light of these developments, its subsidiaries "have presently decided not to proceed with the proposed USD-denominated bond offerings."

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According to the US Department of Justice (DoJ), the solar contracts would have generated a profit of over $2 billion over roughly 20 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-long-term-prisoners-undertrial-to-get-bail-ahead-of-constitution-day-777693">India: Long-term prisoners still on trial to get bail ahead of Constitution Day</a>

"As alleged, the defendants orchestrated an elaborate scheme to bribe Indian government officials to secure contracts worth billions of dollars and Gautam S. Adani, Sagar R. Adani and Vneet S. Jaain lied about the bribery scheme as they sought to raise capital from U.S. and international investors," stated United States Attorney Breon&nbsp;Peace.

<h2>Details of the allegations</h2>

The allegations, revealed in a five-count indictment, involve Gautam Adani and his nephews Sagar R. Adani and VIneet S. Jaain, both executives in the group's renewable energy businesses. &nbsp;

"The indictment also charges Ranjit Gupta and Rupesh Agarwal, former executives of a renewable-energy company with securities that had traded on the New York Stock Exchange (the U.S. Issuer), and Cyril Cabanes, Saurabh Agarwal and Deepak Malhotra, former employees of a Canadian institutional investor, with conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in connection with a bribery scheme also perpetrated by Gautam S. Adani, Sagar R. Adani and Vneet S. Jaain, involving one of the world’s largest solar energy projects."

Prosecutors claim that Adani and his associates promised bribes to Indian officials in exchange for contracts projected to generate over $2 billion in after-tax profits over two decades. To further their goals, they allegedly misled investors and banks while attempting to conceal the scheme from authorities. &nbsp;

"This indictment alleges schemes to pay over $250 million in bribes to Indian government officials, to lie to investors and banks to raise billions of dollars, and to obstruct justice," said Lisa Miller, Deputy Assistant Attorney General.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-china-discuss-resumption-of-kailash-mansarovar-yatra-direct-flights-on-sidelines-of-g20-summit-777426">India, China discuss resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights on sidelines of G20 Summit</a>

"Gautam Adani and seven other business executives allegedly bribed the Indian government to finance lucrative contracts designed to benefit their businesses... while still other defendants allegedly attempted to conceal the bribery conspiracy by obstructing the government's investigation," said the FBI Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy.

Prosecutors said that one of Adani's accomplices&nbsp;meticulously recorded bribery payments on their phone.

According to US prosecutors, neither Adani nor the other defendants are in custody.&nbsp;

<h2>Adani group under scrutiny &nbsp;</h2>

The charges follow earlier accusations of fraud by Hindenburg Research. In 2023, Hindenburg’s report alleged that Adani’s conglomerate engaged in "brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud scheme over the course of decades.". &nbsp;

Adani’s reputation as a close ally of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has added to the controversy. Hindenburg, in its report, claimed, there was a pattern of "government leniency towards the group" stretching back decades, which&nbsp;had left investors, journalists, citizens and politicians unwilling to raise concerns&nbsp;"for fear of reprisal."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian billionaire industrialist, Gautam Adani along with seven others, has been charged by US prosecutors for allegedly paying hundreds and millions of dollars in bribes to win lucrative contracts.

Indian billionaire industrialist, Gautam Adani along with seven others, has been charged by US prosecutors for allegedly paying hundreds and millions of dollars in bribes to win lucrative contracts. Prosecutors allege that the chairman of Adani Group orchestrated a $250 million bribery scheme involving Indian government officials, all to secure lucrative solar energy contracts. In a statement, Adani Green acknowledged the charges by the US DoJ and announced that in light of these developments, its subsidiaries "have presently decided not to proceed with the proposed USD-denominated bond offerings." US prosecutors charge Gautam Adani and others in alleged Solar Energy contract bribery case Adani Green says, "The United States Department of Justice and the United States Securities and Exchange Commission have issued a criminal indictment and brought a civil complaint,… pic.twitter.com/uoBDJPuhOE — ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2024 × According to the US Department of Justice (DoJ), the solar contracts would have generated a profit of over $2 billion over roughly 20 years. Also read | India: Long-term prisoners still on trial to get bail ahead of Constitution Day "As alleged, the defendants orchestrated an elaborate scheme to bribe Indian government officials to secure contracts worth billions of dollars and Gautam S. Adani, Sagar R. Adani and Vneet S. Jaain lied about the bribery scheme as they sought to raise capital from U.S. and international investors," stated United States Attorney Breon Peace. Details of the allegations The allegations, revealed in a five-count indictment, involve Gautam Adani and his nephews Sagar R. Adani and VIneet S. Jaain, both executives in the group's renewable energy businesses. "The indictment also charges Ranjit Gupta and Rupesh Agarwal, former executives of a renewable-energy company with securities that had traded on the New York Stock Exchange (the U.S. Issuer), and Cyril Cabanes, Saurabh Agarwal and Deepak Malhotra, former employees of a Canadian institutional investor, with conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in connection with a bribery scheme also perpetrated by Gautam S. Adani, Sagar R. Adani and Vneet S. Jaain, involving one of the world’s largest solar energy projects." Prosecutors claim that Adani and his associates promised bribes to Indian officials in exchange for contracts projected to generate over $2 billion in after-tax profits over two decades. To further their goals, they allegedly misled investors and banks while attempting to conceal the scheme from authorities. "This indictment alleges schemes to pay over $250 million in bribes to Indian government officials, to lie to investors and banks to raise billions of dollars, and to obstruct justice," said Lisa Miller, Deputy Assistant Attorney General. Also read | India, China discuss resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights on sidelines of G20 Summit "Gautam Adani and seven other business executives allegedly bribed the Indian government to finance lucrative contracts designed to benefit their businesses... while still other defendants allegedly attempted to conceal the bribery conspiracy by obstructing the government's investigation," said the FBI Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy. Prosecutors said that one of Adani's accomplices meticulously recorded bribery payments on their phone. According to US prosecutors, neither Adani nor the other defendants are in custody. Adani group under scrutiny The charges follow earlier accusations of fraud by Hindenburg Research. In 2023, Hindenburg’s report alleged that Adani’s conglomerate engaged in "brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud scheme over the course of decades.". Adani’s reputation as a close ally of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has added to the controversy. Hindenburg, in its report, claimed, there was a pattern of "government leniency towards the group" stretching back decades, which had left investors, journalists, citizens and politicians unwilling to raise concerns "for fear of reprisal." (With inputs from agencies)

Gautam Adani charged in $250 million bribery scheme by US prosecutors

India and the US have emerged as the top performers among the G20 nations in implementing climate policies, an analysis by the Guardian has found. The G20 economies over the past nine years introduced several policies aimed at curtailing CO2 emissions following the 2016 Paris Agreement. Thanks to the steps taken so far by nations like India and the US among others, the world will now reduce CO2 discharges by 6.9 gigatons by 2030, according to a report by Climate Action Tracker.

However, efforts by these nations were still not enough to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius to 2C above preindustrial levels.

In a major achievement, the CO2 emissions are now projected to return to 2015 levels by the end of this decade. In contrast, previous studies showed that the CO2 emissions would rise by 20 per cent between 2015 and 2030.

Leonardo Nascimento, an analyst at Climate Action Tracker, was quoted by Guardian as saying that this was a major silver lining. “This is nothing to brush off. This is a major improvement in the group of countries covering more than 80% of global emissions,” Nascimento added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiu_uvCge6JAxWrsFYBHd72Bq8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pacific-leaders-accuse-australia-of-climate-injustice-at-cop29-777024" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/pacific-leaders-accuse-australia-of-climate-injustice-at-cop29-777024&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiu_uvCge6JAxWrsFYBHd72Bq8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Pacific leaders accuse Australia of 'climate injustice' at COP29</a>

“There is progress at the international level. I completely disagree that Cop is a useless process.”

The analyst also acknowledged major climate strides coming from other developing nations such as China. The world’s second-largest economy has invested heavily in renewables and is forecast to hit some of its 2030 climate targets six years early and perhaps peak its CO2 output next year.

Watch:&nbsp;Divided G20 Fails To Agree On Climate

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“It is not just developed countries that are doing a lot, it is also developing nations with big populations and big inequality,” Nascimento said.

The expert also hoped that global emissions may peak by the end of next year.

(With inputs from agencies)

India and the US have emerged as the top performers among the G20 nations in implementing climate policies, an analysis by the Guardian has found. The G20 economies over the past nine years introduced several policies aimed at curtailing CO2 emissions following the 2016 Paris Agreement.

India and the US have emerged as the top performers among the G20 nations in implementing climate policies, an analysis by the Guardian has found. The G20 economies over the past nine years introduced several policies aimed at curtailing CO2 emissions following the 2016 Paris Agreement. Thanks to the steps taken so far by nations like India and the US among others, the world will now reduce CO2 discharges by 6.9 gigatons by 2030, according to a report by Climate Action Tracker. However, efforts by these nations were still not enough to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius to 2C above preindustrial levels. In a major achievement, the CO2 emissions are now projected to return to 2015 levels by the end of this decade. In contrast, previous studies showed that the CO2 emissions would rise by 20 per cent between 2015 and 2030. Leonardo Nascimento, an analyst at Climate Action Tracker, was quoted by Guardian as saying that this was a major silver lining. “This is nothing to brush off. This is a major improvement in the group of countries covering more than 80% of global emissions,” Nascimento added. Also read: Pacific leaders accuse Australia of 'climate injustice' at COP29 “There is progress at the international level. I completely disagree that Cop is a useless process.” The analyst also acknowledged major climate strides coming from other developing nations such as China. The world’s second-largest economy has invested heavily in renewables and is forecast to hit some of its 2030 climate targets six years early and perhaps peak its CO2 output next year. Watch: Divided G20 Fails To Agree On Climate × “It is not just developed countries that are doing a lot, it is also developing nations with big populations and big inequality,” Nascimento said. The expert also hoped that global emissions may peak by the end of next year. (With inputs from agencies)

India and US top performers among G20 nations in meeting climate goals: Report

The United States "fundamentally rejects" a decision by the International Criminal Court to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant, the White House said Thursday.

The United States "fundamentally rejects" a decision by the International Criminal Court to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant, the White House said Thursday. "We remain deeply concerned by the Prosecutor's rush to seek arrest warrants and the troubling process errors that led to this decision. The United States has been clear that the ICC does not have jurisdiction over this matter," a National Security Council spokesperson said. The statement made no mention of an ICC arrest warrant also issued for Mohammed Deif, the military chief of Hamas. Mike Waltz, the incoming national security advisor under US President-elect Donald Trump's administration, defended Israel and promised a "strong response to the antisemitic bias of the ICC & UN come January." Also read: ICC issues arrest warrants against Israeli PM Netanyahu, Gallant and Hamas leader over war crimes "The ICC has no credibility and these allegations have been refuted by the US government," Waltz said on X. His comments reflected a wider outrage among Republicans, with some calling for the US Senate to sanction the ICC, which counts 124 national members who are in theory obliged to arrest individuals subject to warrants. Neither the United States nor Israel is a member of the ICC and both have rejected its jurisdiction. Watch | ICC Issues Arrest Warrant Against Israeli PM Netanyahu and Gallant × The Hague-based court said Thursday that the warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant were issued "for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least 8 October 2023 until at least 20 May 2024." A warrant was also issued for Deif, whom Israel claimed was killed in an air strike in Gaza in July, but Hamas has not confirmed his death. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US ‘fundamentally rejects’ ICC’s arrest warrant for Netanyahu, says court has no credibility

A Florida man has been arrested and charged in connection with a plot to bomb the New York Stock Exchange in an effort to “reboot” the US government, according to the FBI.

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Harun Abdul-Malik Yener, 30, from Coral Springs, Florida, was charged with attempting to use an explosive device to damage or destroy a building involved in interstate commerce.

The FBI began investigating Yener in February after receiving a tip that he was storing materials related to bomb-making in a storage unit. Agents searched the area after obtaining a search warrant. They found “bomb-making sketches, numerous watches with timers electronic circuit boards and other electronics that can be utilised to build bombs.&nbsp;

According to the FBI, Yener had also been conducting online searches about bomb-making since 2017.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/laken-riley-murder-man-accused-of-killing-us-nursing-student-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-777866">Laken Riley murder: Accused man sentenced to life in prison without parole</a>

In March, Yener admitted to authorities during questioning that he had knowledge of making “rockets” and “bombs” and had previously tried to join a "domestic extremist group." He also revealed that in 2015, he had considered travelling to Iraq to join ISIS but ultimately decided against it because he doubted the group’s ability to meet its objectives.

Yener allegedly told undercover FBI agents that he planned to detonate the bomb during the week before Thanksgiving, targeting the New York Stock Exchange in lower Manhattan. Court documents state that his goal was to “reboot” the US government.&nbsp;

<h2>'I feel like Bin Laden'</h2>

“There is one place that would be hella easy… the stock exchange, that would be a great hit. Tons of people would support it. They would see it and think dude, this guy makes sense, they are [profanity] robbing us. So that's perfect,” he told the agent.

“I feel like Bin Laden,” he told the undercover agent.

Weeks before his arrest, Yener had modified two-way radios to function as remote triggers for explosives. He also planned to wear a disguise while planting the device, according to court filings.

Yener appeared in court on Wednesday afternoon, where it was decided he would remain in custody while awaiting trial.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Florida man has been arrested and charged in connection with a plot to bomb the New York Stock Exchange in an effort to “reboot” the US government, according to the FBI.

A Florida man has been arrested and charged in connection with a plot to bomb the New York Stock Exchange in an effort to “reboot” the US government, according to the FBI. Harun Abdul-Malik Yener, 30, from Coral Springs, Florida, was charged with attempting to use an explosive device to damage or destroy a building involved in interstate commerce. The FBI began investigating Yener in February after receiving a tip that he was storing materials related to bomb-making in a storage unit. Agents searched the area after obtaining a search warrant. They found “bomb-making sketches, numerous watches with timers electronic circuit boards and other electronics that can be utilised to build bombs. According to the FBI, Yener had also been conducting online searches about bomb-making since 2017. Also read: Laken Riley murder: Accused man sentenced to life in prison without parole In March, Yener admitted to authorities during questioning that he had knowledge of making “rockets” and “bombs” and had previously tried to join a "domestic extremist group." He also revealed that in 2015, he had considered travelling to Iraq to join ISIS but ultimately decided against it because he doubted the group’s ability to meet its objectives. Yener allegedly told undercover FBI agents that he planned to detonate the bomb during the week before Thanksgiving, targeting the New York Stock Exchange in lower Manhattan. Court documents state that his goal was to “reboot” the US government. 'I feel like Bin Laden' “There is one place that would be hella easy… the stock exchange, that would be a great hit. Tons of people would support it. They would see it and think dude, this guy makes sense, they are [profanity] robbing us. So that's perfect,” he told the agent. “I feel like Bin Laden,” he told the undercover agent. Weeks before his arrest, Yener had modified two-way radios to function as remote triggers for explosives. He also planned to wear a disguise while planting the device, according to court filings. Yener appeared in court on Wednesday afternoon, where it was decided he would remain in custody while awaiting trial. (With inputs from agencies)

‘I feel like Bin Laden,’ Florida man arrested by FBI for planning to bomb NYSE to 'reboot' US government

Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon. In a speech, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem asserted,&nbsp;"Israel cannot defeat us and cannot impose its conditions on us."

Indian industrialist Gautam Adani&nbsp;along with seven others, has been charged by US prosecutors for allegedly paying hundreds and millions of dollars in bribes to win lucrative contracts.

In other news from around the world, a&nbsp;Venezuelan man convicted of killing 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley in the US state of Georgia&nbsp;was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday (Nov 20) without the possibility of parole.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cannot-defeat-us-hezbollah-leader-naim-qassem-rejects-ceasefire-terms-777860">'Israel cannot defeat us': Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejects ceasefire terms</a>

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Hezbollah Leader Naim Qassem in a defiant speech on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon, asserting that Israel "cannot impose its conditions."&nbsp;The Hezbollah leader's statement comes as US envoy Amos Hochstein headed to Israel to try to negotiate an end to the war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gautam-adani-charged-in-250-million-bribery-scheme-by-us-prosecutors-777837">Gautam Adani charged in $250 million bribery scheme by US prosecutors</a>

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Indian billionaire industrialist, Gautam Adani along with seven others, has been charged by US prosecutors for allegedly paying hundreds and millions of dollars in bribes to win lucrative contracts.&nbsp;Prosecutors allege that the chairman of Adani Group orchestrated a $250 million bribery scheme involving Indian government officials, all to secure lucrative solar energy contracts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/laken-riley-murder-man-accused-of-killing-us-nursing-student-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-777866">Laken Riley murder: Man accused of killing US nursing student sentenced to life in prison</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/21/467142-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" />

A Venezuelan man convicted of killing a nursing student in the US state of Georgia was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday (Nov 20) without the possibility of parole, American media reported.&nbsp;Twenty-two-year-old Laken Riley was murdered on February 22 while she was on a jog at the University of Georgia campus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lady-gaga-green-day-post-malone-to-headline-coachella-2025-777865">Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post Malone to headline Coachella 2025</a>

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Lady Gaga, Green Day and Post Malone will headline 2025's Coachella music and arts festival, organizers said Wednesday, while Travis Scott will play a special guest slot. Missy Elliott, Charli XCX and Megan Thee Stallion will also feature at the major event in the California desert that kicks off the music festival circuit.

Watch | Trump, Musk solidify bond with Texas trip

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Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon. In a speech, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem asserted, "Israel cannot defeat us and cannot impose its conditions on us.

Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon. In a speech, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem asserted, "Israel cannot defeat us and cannot impose its conditions on us." Indian industrialist Gautam Adani along with seven others, has been charged by US prosecutors for allegedly paying hundreds and millions of dollars in bribes to win lucrative contracts. In other news from around the world, a Venezuelan man convicted of killing 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley in the US state of Georgia was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday (Nov 20) without the possibility of parole. Click on the headlines to read more: 'Israel cannot defeat us': Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejects ceasefire terms Hezbollah Leader Naim Qassem in a defiant speech on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon, asserting that Israel "cannot impose its conditions." The Hezbollah leader's statement comes as US envoy Amos Hochstein headed to Israel to try to negotiate an end to the war. Gautam Adani charged in $250 million bribery scheme by US prosecutors Indian billionaire industrialist, Gautam Adani along with seven others, has been charged by US prosecutors for allegedly paying hundreds and millions of dollars in bribes to win lucrative contracts. Prosecutors allege that the chairman of Adani Group orchestrated a $250 million bribery scheme involving Indian government officials, all to secure lucrative solar energy contracts. Laken Riley murder: Man accused of killing US nursing student sentenced to life in prison A Venezuelan man convicted of killing a nursing student in the US state of Georgia was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday (Nov 20) without the possibility of parole, American media reported. Twenty-two-year-old Laken Riley was murdered on February 22 while she was on a jog at the University of Georgia campus. Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post Malone to headline Coachella 2025 Lady Gaga, Green Day and Post Malone will headline 2025's Coachella music and arts festival, organizers said Wednesday, while Travis Scott will play a special guest slot. Missy Elliott, Charli XCX and Megan Thee Stallion will also feature at the major event in the California desert that kicks off the music festival circuit. Watch | Trump, Musk solidify bond with Texas trip ×

Morning brief: West Asia crisis updates; Adani charged in bribery scheme, and more

Chinese leader Xi Jinping urged "more voices" to end the Ukraine war and a ceasefire in Gaza, as he conducted a state visit to Brazil's capital, Chinese state media said.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva echoed those points as he met with Xi in a red-carpet welcome in Brasilia, and stressed a joint roadmap for peace in Ukraine that they are proposing.

"In a world plagued by armed conflicts and political strife, China and Brazil put peace, diplomacy and dialogue first," Lula said.

Xi said he wanted to see "more voices committed to peace to pave the way for a political solution to the Ukraine crisis," the Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported.

He also called for "a ceasefire and an end to the war at an early date" in Gaza, the agency said.

On Ukraine, the China-Brazil roadmap for mediating peace has been endorsed by Russia -- which is China's ally -- but rejected by Kyiv and its Western backers.

The Chinese president's appeal for a halt to fighting in Gaza -- where Israel is pressing an offensive against Hamas -- echoed one he and the other G20 leaders made during a summit held Monday and Tuesday in Rio.

That summit's joint statement called for a "comprehensive" ceasefire in both Gaza and Lebanon, where Israel is also waging an offensive against the Iran-backed Hezbollah group.

On Wednesday, the UN Security Council held a vote on a resolution calling for "an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" in Gaza, but it was vetoed by Israel's ally the United States.

<h2>China filling 'vacuum'</h2>

Xi's state visit to Brasilia showcased closer relations between the biggest economies in Asia and Latin America, which analysts said also reflected shrinking US influence.

The two leaders signed 35 cooperation accords on areas including agriculture, trade, technology and environmental protection.

Xi said China-Brazil relations "are at their best in history" and the two countries are now "reliable friends," according to Xinhua.

Lula said he believed the growing Brazil-China ties "will exceed all expectations and pave the way for a new phase of bilateral relations."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-fires-uk-made-storm-shadow-missiles-at-russia-for-first-time-777761">Ukraine fires UK-made Storm Shadow missiles at Russia for the first time</a>

He added that he looked forward to welcoming Xi to Brazil again next July for a BRICS summit.

The Chinese leader figured prominently at the G20 summit, and at an APEC one held last week in Peru -- in contrast with outgoing US President Joe Biden, who cut a spectral figure.

Fellow leaders looked past Biden, politically, to the coming US presidency of Donald Trump, which starts January 20.

"Xi Jinping is clearly looking to fill the vacuum that will come following the election of Trump, who does not value multilateralism," Oliver Stuenkel, an international relations expert at Brazil's Getulio Vargas Foundation think tank, told AFP.

<h2>'Synergies'&nbsp;</h2>

China is Brazil's biggest trading partner, with two-way commerce exceeding $160 billion last year.

The South American agricultural power sends mainly soybeans and other primary commodities to China, while the Asian giant sells Brazil semiconductors, telephones, vehicles and medicines.

Since returning to power in early 2023, Lula has sought to balance efforts to improve ties with both China and the United States.

A visit to Beijing this year by Vice President Geraldo Alckmin was seen as paving the way for Brazil to potentially join China's Belt and Road Initiative to stimulate trade -- a central pillar of Xi's bid to expand China's clout overseas.

But there was no announcement in that direction during Xi's visit. Instead, both leaders spoke of finding "synergies" between that Chinese program and Brazil's own infrastructure development program.

South American nations that have signed up to Beijing's initiative include Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.

One of the accords signed Wednesday was on Brazil opening its market to a Chinese satellite company, SpaceSail, that competes with Starlink, founded and run by South African-born US billionaire Elon Musk, which already covers remote Brazilian regions.

Musk has a turbulent history with Brazil, whose courts forced his social media platform X to comply with national laws against disinformation.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping urged "more voices" to end the Ukraine war and a ceasefire in Gaza, as he conducted a state visit to Brazil's capital, Chinese state media said.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping urged "more voices" to end the Ukraine war and a ceasefire in Gaza, as he conducted a state visit to Brazil's capital, Chinese state media said. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva echoed those points as he met with Xi in a red-carpet welcome in Brasilia, and stressed a joint roadmap for peace in Ukraine that they are proposing. "In a world plagued by armed conflicts and political strife, China and Brazil put peace, diplomacy and dialogue first," Lula said. Xi said he wanted to see "more voices committed to peace to pave the way for a political solution to the Ukraine crisis," the Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported. He also called for "a ceasefire and an end to the war at an early date" in Gaza, the agency said. On Ukraine, the China-Brazil roadmap for mediating peace has been endorsed by Russia -- which is China's ally -- but rejected by Kyiv and its Western backers. The Chinese president's appeal for a halt to fighting in Gaza -- where Israel is pressing an offensive against Hamas -- echoed one he and the other G20 leaders made during a summit held Monday and Tuesday in Rio. That summit's joint statement called for a "comprehensive" ceasefire in both Gaza and Lebanon, where Israel is also waging an offensive against the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. On Wednesday, the UN Security Council held a vote on a resolution calling for "an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" in Gaza, but it was vetoed by Israel's ally the United States. China filling 'vacuum' Xi's state visit to Brasilia showcased closer relations between the biggest economies in Asia and Latin America, which analysts said also reflected shrinking US influence. The two leaders signed 35 cooperation accords on areas including agriculture, trade, technology and environmental protection. Xi said China-Brazil relations "are at their best in history" and the two countries are now "reliable friends," according to Xinhua. Lula said he believed the growing Brazil-China ties "will exceed all expectations and pave the way for a new phase of bilateral relations." Also read: Ukraine fires UK-made Storm Shadow missiles at Russia for the first time He added that he looked forward to welcoming Xi to Brazil again next July for a BRICS summit. The Chinese leader figured prominently at the G20 summit, and at an APEC one held last week in Peru -- in contrast with outgoing US President Joe Biden, who cut a spectral figure. Fellow leaders looked past Biden, politically, to the coming US presidency of Donald Trump, which starts January 20. "Xi Jinping is clearly looking to fill the vacuum that will come following the election of Trump, who does not value multilateralism," Oliver Stuenkel, an international relations expert at Brazil's Getulio Vargas Foundation think tank, told AFP. 'Synergies' China is Brazil's biggest trading partner, with two-way commerce exceeding $160 billion last year. The South American agricultural power sends mainly soybeans and other primary commodities to China, while the Asian giant sells Brazil semiconductors, telephones, vehicles and medicines. Since returning to power in early 2023, Lula has sought to balance efforts to improve ties with both China and the United States. A visit to Beijing this year by Vice President Geraldo Alckmin was seen as paving the way for Brazil to potentially join China's Belt and Road Initiative to stimulate trade -- a central pillar of Xi's bid to expand China's clout overseas. But there was no announcement in that direction during Xi's visit. Instead, both leaders spoke of finding "synergies" between that Chinese program and Brazil's own infrastructure development program. South American nations that have signed up to Beijing's initiative include Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. One of the accords signed Wednesday was on Brazil opening its market to a Chinese satellite company, SpaceSail, that competes with Starlink, founded and run by South African-born US billionaire Elon Musk, which already covers remote Brazilian regions. Musk has a turbulent history with Brazil, whose courts forced his social media platform X to comply with national laws against disinformation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Xi Jinping calls for Ukraine peace and Gaza ceasefire during Brazil visit

A London born Italian teenager nicknamed God's influencer have will become the Catholic church's first Millennial Saint in April next year. Carlo Acutis who died of leukemia age 15 in 2006 was beatified four years ago after the Vatican rule that he had miraculously saved another boy's life. Watch in for more details!

Pope Announces First Millennial Saint: Carlos Acutis To Be Canonised In April 2025

Gautam Adani Charged By US Over Alleged $250 Million Bribe Plot

A senior Israeli defence official said that for the first time in a long time, there is a good chance to reach a hostage deal with the Palestinian militant group Hamas amid the ongoing war in Gaza.

A senior Israeli defence official said that for the first time in a long time, there is a good chance to reach a hostage deal with the Palestinian militant group Hamas amid the ongoing war in Gaza. However, the deal does not include an official end to the war in Gaza, The Times of Israel reported. Hamas has been under a lot of pressure, however, has refused to surrender, the official said. The official added that the group is potentially interested in a hostage deal. The potential deal will include a first-stage 42-day ceasefire, in which a number of hostages will be released. Also read: Netanyahu makes rare Gaza visit, announces $5 million reward for each hostage returned Last week, a senior Hamas official said that the Palestinian militant group was “ready for a ceasefire” in besieged Gaza. Hamas political bureau member Bassem Naim told news agency AFP that he wanted United States President-elect Donald Trump to press Israel to “end the aggression”. “Hamas is ready to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip if a ceasefire proposal is presented and on the condition that it is respected” by Israel, said the Hamas official. “We call on the US administration and Trump to pressure the Israeli government to end the aggression,” he added. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Palestinian Envoy Denounces US Decision To Veto Gaza Resolution × On Wednesday (Nov 20), during an interview with Al-Aqsa TV, Hamas’ acting Gaza chief Khalil al-Hayya said that there would be no hostages-for-prisoners swap deal with Israel unless the war ends. "Without an end to the war, there can be no prisoner swap," Hayya said during the interview. "If the aggression is not ended, why would the resistance and in particular Hamas, return the prisoners (hostages)?" he said. "How would a sane or an insane person lose a strong card he owns while the war is continuing?" Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas potentially interested in a hostage deal, says senior Israeli official

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the UK India Business Council, Dickie McCallum, is hopeful on the early conclusion of the India-UK free trade agreement (FTA). Earlier this week, Indian PM Modi and UK PM Sir Keir Starmer met on the sidelines of G20 Brazil summit and agreed on resumption of India-UK Free Trade Agreement Negotiations. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said, "our members would like to see some limited tariff reductions in a limited range of areas, automotive and spirits and so on."

The general elections in both India and the UK have influenced the timeline of the FTA. The talks were paused during these periods but are set to resume with a priority status from both sides. Dickie McCallum pointed to the British role in the Indian economy. He pointed that, "UK is a top five investor and has been over the last 20 years in India, in terms of FDI. India is now the second-largest investor in the UK."

The UKIBC CEO also put emphasis on defence business ties. He pointed, "we understand India's ambition, which is to mature its defense market, to ensure a supply of critical capability and technology and to grow exports from that sector as well"

WION: Where do you see India, UK relations?

Dickie McCallum: So the UK and India enjoy a very healthy trade and investment relationship at the moment. The UK is a top five investor and has been over the last 20 years in India, in terms of FDI. India is now the second-largest investor in the UK. There are about 950 Indian companies in the UK with turnover of about 50 billion pounds. And equally in India, there's about 670 UK companies here with turnovers of about 50 billion pounds, and they employ about half a million people, five lakh people in this country right now.

WION: What are the strategic areas of collaboration between India and the UK?&nbsp;

Dickie McCallum: While the UK considers India to be a strategic partner, you have to focus on certain areas if you're going to really succeed, right. So I think the areas where the UK and India are collaborating right now, where there's huge potential, include things like finance and fintech. So the City of London is a considerable source of finance for India, and potentially green finance, lots of FinTech companies in the UK who want to work in India, climate and energy. So this is very much 2 way. Defense is another area of huge collaboration. I mean, India wants to indigenize defense manufacturing. The UK has considerable defense capability and technology that it wants to bring here, you know, it wants to co create and co develop in India. And more generally, I think technology. In July, when our Foreign Secretary visited India, he signed something called the technology security initiative, and that's an agreement with India to work on the technologies of the future, things like quantum and AI and advanced materials. So that's a very exciting new development for the relationship.

WION: What opportunities and challenges do both sides face with the free trade agreement, especially considering the ongoing talks have lasted for months?

Dickie McCallum: What I would say here is that when the fifth and the sixth-largest economies in the world view a comprehensive trade agreement, it's really important they take the time to get that right. And so, you know, while I'm not at the negotiating table, we do talk to officials on both sides, and I'm really reassured by conversations I've had with ministers on both sides about their commitment to making this Free Trade Agreement a reality. Our members would like to see some limited tariff reductions in a limited range of areas, automotive and spirits and so on. But I think it's important to consider that this FTA is, is the start of something, it's not the conclusion of something. So I'm very hopeful that we can get it done and then start to build momentum from there.

WION: Do you have any hopes of its conclusion?

Dickie McCallum: We did 13 rounds, and the 14th round was paused because we had elections in the UK. So you can understand why there was a break in the negotiation, because we had a general election in the UK. There was also an election in India, and we have a new government in the UK, but the new government in the UK has been very clear that it wants to pursue the FTA. So I think now that both governments are securely in place, we will see a progression in these negotiations, and I'm hopeful that they'll conclude successfully soon.

WION: How does the UK IBC see the investment climate in India?&nbsp;

Dickie McCallum: I've been living in this country for the last nearly 20 years, and it's in terms of business climate. It's unrecognizable from when it was when I came here. The government here has done an incredible job in terms of easily doing business, in terms of reform, and I think it's the most exciting economic story in the world. Lots of UK companies are now looking to base their research and engineering and development centers in India, because it's such an exciting place to be, because of the talent here, because of India's ability to scale.

WION: Can you tell us more about the tech event you're hosting?

Dickie McCallum: Picking up on that theme, I mentioned the technology security initiative. We want to showcase what Indian and British companies are doing together today in terms of technology collaboration. We also want to talk about the future. So it's a technology futures conference, because there's so much more that these 2 countries, companies, inside the countries and the universities, can be doing together. You know, powering Vikshit Bharat, the development of India, to 2047, the UK can play a really great role in that. I think there's a lot of technology, a lot of capability research in the UK. So yeah, we're exploring that. We've got a number of sort of side seminars going on around that, in terms of FinTech and energy transition and technology collaboration. So it's very exciting.

WION: What role can the UK play in developing India's workforce, and supporting "Make in India"?

Dickie McCallum: Well, there's two questions there, one around skills and capacity building, and one around making India and sort of operating landscape. So in terms of skills, UK universities are very interested in India. You recently had the announcement of Southampton setting up in India. I think that universities from the UK, you're going to see much more of this kind of thing. They're excited about partnering with Indian universities and potentially for campuses, and they will bring new things to India in terms of skills and potentially employability training. So I'm very hopeful that the UK can play a role in that capacity building. Now, in terms of "make in India" look, I do a lot of work in defense right now. British companies, and we understand India's ambition, which is to mature its defense market, to ensure a supply of critical capability and technology and to grow exports from that sector as well. We understand that, yeah, sure, there are some areas where we think it could be refined so that technology can flow into India a bit quicker. I think you can scale this, you can grade this perhaps a little bit more slowly, to get what you want from foreign companies quicker. But I think generally speaking, you know, UK companies, we're encouraging them to think of India as a strategic partner, part of their supply chain, talent chain, technology chain.

WION: Where does the British defense industry stand when it comes to India as a market?&nbsp;

Dickie McCallum: You're absolutely right. The UK hasn't gone from very significant market share, it's come down to a very small market share. We're behind the curve on some of this in terms of our peer competitors, but I see the strategy that the UK Government has and the British business has now as changing that. There are, I can't talk about them here, for obvious reasons, but like under the radar, there are some really exciting new prospects where UK and Indian companies and the forces are working together on certain areas of capability development. So I think that's going to change. I think we have the right strategy for it, and eventually that's going to change. You're going to see the results.

WION: My final question is about sustainable development. India is a growing economy, but with that growth comes increased pollution. Having lived here for 20 years, you must have noticed the rising pollution levels in Delhi, the National Capital. So, in terms of sustainable development, how does the UK position itself as an important partner for India?

Dickie McCallum: We've all got our sustainability challenges. I think the UK can learn from India in this respect, in some areas. And equally, the UK has technology and finance that can help India's development towards its SDG and sustainability objectives. The UK is a world leader in things like clean technology and wind and so on. So I think there are areas where we can definitely work together to meet our objectives.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the UK India Business Council, Dickie McCallum, is hopeful on the early conclusion of the India-UK free trade agreement (FTA).

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the UK India Business Council, Dickie McCallum, is hopeful on the early conclusion of the India-UK free trade agreement (FTA). Earlier this week, Indian PM Modi and UK PM Sir Keir Starmer met on the sidelines of G20 Brazil summit and agreed on resumption of India-UK Free Trade Agreement Negotiations. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said, "our members would like to see some limited tariff reductions in a limited range of areas, automotive and spirits and so on." The general elections in both India and the UK have influenced the timeline of the FTA. The talks were paused during these periods but are set to resume with a priority status from both sides. Dickie McCallum pointed to the British role in the Indian economy. He pointed that, "UK is a top five investor and has been over the last 20 years in India, in terms of FDI. India is now the second-largest investor in the UK." The UKIBC CEO also put emphasis on defence business ties. He pointed, "we understand India's ambition, which is to mature its defense market, to ensure a supply of critical capability and technology and to grow exports from that sector as well" WION: Where do you see India, UK relations? Dickie McCallum: So the UK and India enjoy a very healthy trade and investment relationship at the moment. The UK is a top five investor and has been over the last 20 years in India, in terms of FDI. India is now the second-largest investor in the UK. There are about 950 Indian companies in the UK with turnover of about 50 billion pounds. And equally in India, there's about 670 UK companies here with turnovers of about 50 billion pounds, and they employ about half a million people, five lakh people in this country right now. WION: What are the strategic areas of collaboration between India and the UK? Dickie McCallum: While the UK considers India to be a strategic partner, you have to focus on certain areas if you're going to really succeed, right. So I think the areas where the UK and India are collaborating right now, where there's huge potential, include things like finance and fintech. So the City of London is a considerable source of finance for India, and potentially green finance, lots of FinTech companies in the UK who want to work in India, climate and energy. So this is very much 2 way. Defense is another area of huge collaboration. I mean, India wants to indigenize defense manufacturing. The UK has considerable defense capability and technology that it wants to bring here, you know, it wants to co create and co develop in India. And more generally, I think technology. In July, when our Foreign Secretary visited India, he signed something called the technology security initiative, and that's an agreement with India to work on the technologies of the future, things like quantum and AI and advanced materials. So that's a very exciting new development for the relationship. WION: What opportunities and challenges do both sides face with the free trade agreement, especially considering the ongoing talks have lasted for months? Dickie McCallum: What I would say here is that when the fifth and the sixth-largest economies in the world view a comprehensive trade agreement, it's really important they take the time to get that right. And so, you know, while I'm not at the negotiating table, we do talk to officials on both sides, and I'm really reassured by conversations I've had with ministers on both sides about their commitment to making this Free Trade Agreement a reality. Our members would like to see some limited tariff reductions in a limited range of areas, automotive and spirits and so on. But I think it's important to consider that this FTA is, is the start of something, it's not the conclusion of something. So I'm very hopeful that we can get it done and then start to build momentum from there. WION: Do you have any hopes of its conclusion? Dickie McCallum: We did 13 rounds, and the 14th round was paused because we had elections in the UK. So you can understand why there was a break in the negotiation, because we had a general election in the UK. There was also an election in India, and we have a new government in the UK, but the new government in the UK has been very clear that it wants to pursue the FTA. So I think now that both governments are securely in place, we will see a progression in these negotiations, and I'm hopeful that they'll conclude successfully soon. WION: How does the UK IBC see the investment climate in India? Dickie McCallum: I've been living in this country for the last nearly 20 years, and it's in terms of business climate. It's unrecognizable from when it was when I came here. The government here has done an incredible job in terms of easily doing business, in terms of reform, and I think it's the most exciting economic story in the world. Lots of UK companies are now looking to base their research and engineering and development centers in India, because it's such an exciting place to be, because of the talent here, because of India's ability to scale. WION: Can you tell us more about the tech event you're hosting? Dickie McCallum: Picking up on that theme, I mentioned the technology security initiative. We want to showcase what Indian and British companies are doing together today in terms of technology collaboration. We also want to talk about the future. So it's a technology futures conference, because there's so much more that these 2 countries, companies, inside the countries and the universities, can be doing together. You know, powering Vikshit Bharat, the development of India, to 2047, the UK can play a really great role in that. I think there's a lot of technology, a lot of capability research in the UK. So yeah, we're exploring that. We've got a number of sort of side seminars going on around that, in terms of FinTech and energy transition and technology collaboration. So it's very exciting. WION: What role can the UK play in developing India's workforce, and supporting "Make in India"? Dickie McCallum: Well, there's two questions there, one around skills and capacity building, and one around making India and sort of operating landscape. So in terms of skills, UK universities are very interested in India. You recently had the announcement of Southampton setting up in India. I think that universities from the UK, you're going to see much more of this kind of thing. They're excited about partnering with Indian universities and potentially for campuses, and they will bring new things to India in terms of skills and potentially employability training. So I'm very hopeful that the UK can play a role in that capacity building. Now, in terms of "make in India" look, I do a lot of work in defense right now. British companies, and we understand India's ambition, which is to mature its defense market, to ensure a supply of critical capability and technology and to grow exports from that sector as well. We understand that, yeah, sure, there are some areas where we think it could be refined so that technology can flow into India a bit quicker. I think you can scale this, you can grade this perhaps a little bit more slowly, to get what you want from foreign companies quicker. But I think generally speaking, you know, UK companies, we're encouraging them to think of India as a strategic partner, part of their supply chain, talent chain, technology chain. WION: Where does the British defense industry stand when it comes to India as a market? Dickie McCallum: You're absolutely right. The UK hasn't gone from very significant market share, it's come down to a very small market share. We're behind the curve on some of this in terms of our peer competitors, but I see the strategy that the UK Government has and the British business has now as changing that. There are, I can't talk about them here, for obvious reasons, but like under the radar, there are some really exciting new prospects where UK and Indian companies and the forces are working together on certain areas of capability development. So I think that's going to change. I think we have the right strategy for it, and eventually that's going to change. You're going to see the results. WION: My final question is about sustainable development. India is a growing economy, but with that growth comes increased pollution. Having lived here for 20 years, you must have noticed the rising pollution levels in Delhi, the National Capital. So, in terms of sustainable development, how does the UK position itself as an important partner for India? Dickie McCallum: We've all got our sustainability challenges. I think the UK can learn from India in this respect, in some areas. And equally, the UK has technology and finance that can help India's development towards its SDG and sustainability objectives. The UK is a world leader in things like clean technology and wind and so on. So I think there are areas where we can definitely work together to meet our objectives.

UKIBC CEO Dickie McCallum hopeful on early conclusion of India-UK FTA

A Venezuelan man convicted of killing a nursing student in the US state of Georgia was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday (Nov 20) without the possibility of parole, American media reported.

A Venezuelan man convicted of killing a nursing student in the US state of Georgia was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday (Nov 20) without the possibility of parole, American media reported. Twenty-two-year-old Laken Riley was murdered on February 22 while she was on a jog at the University of Georgia campus. Riley was a student at Augusta University College of Nursing, which also has a campus in Athens. The accused was identified as 26-year-old Jose Ibarra. The case again renewed the debate over immigration when federal authorities said that Ibarra illegally entered the US in 2022 and was allowed to stay in the country while he pursued his immigration case. Ibarra charged with Riley's murder A report by the news agency Associated Press early Thursday (Nov 21) said that Ibarra was charged with murder and other crimes in Riley's death. Also read | Laken Riley: Georgia nursing student murder suspect also disfigured her skull, reveal court documents Wednesday’s verdict was reached by Athens-Clarke County Superior Court Judge H Patrick Haggard. The report said that Ibarra waived his right to a jury trial, meaning Judge Haggard alone heard and decided the case. Haggard found Ibarra guilty of all 10 counts against him- one count of malice murder; three counts of felony murder; and one count each of kidnapping with bodily injury, aggravated assault with intent to rape, aggravated battery, obstructing an emergency call, evidence tampering and being a peeping Tom. Prosecutor asks judge for Maximum sentence As the verdict was being announced on Wednesday, Defence Attorney John Donnelly asked Haggard to give Ibarra two consecutive life sentences but to allow him the eventual possibility of parole, the Associated Press reported. Meanwhile, Prosecutor Sheila Ross asked the judge for the maximum sentence, saying Riley's family should never have to worry about Ibarra being released. “You can’t bring her back and it’s horrible. What you can do is give comfort with your sentence,” Ross said. Haggard ultimately gave Ibarra the maximum sentence he could impose, including life in prison without the possibility of parole on the malice murder count. 'I cannot walk around my own college campus' Reacting to the verdict, Riley's mother Allyson Phillips said that there was no end to the pain, suffering, and loss that the family experienced and would continue to endure. Riley’s younger sister, Lauren Phillips, a freshman at the University of Georgia, talked about the pain of living without her “favourite person” and “biggest role model.” “I cannot walk around my own college campus because I’m terrified of people like Jose Ibarra,” Lauren said. (With inputs from agencies)

Laken Riley murder: Man accused of killing US nursing student sentenced to life in prison without parole

Winter is marking its arrival in countries across the world from the central European nation of Switzerland to the Indian Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir and several parts across the UK. Watch in for more details!

UK Witnesses First Snowfall Of The Season Across Several Parts

Israeli strikes killed 15 people including five children in Palestine's Gaza Strip. A school turn shelter was hit in Nuseirat refugee camp killing six people including two women and one child. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: School-Turned Shelter Hit In Nuseirat Refugee Camp Killing Six

Hezbollah Leader Naim Qassem in a defiant speech on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon, asserting that Israel "cannot impose its conditions".

The Hezbollah leader's statement comes as US envoy Amos Hochstein headed to Israel to try to negotiate an end to the war.

Qassem, in his address, asserted, "Israel cannot defeat us and cannot impose its conditions on us."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firepower-dramatically-reduced-idf-eliminates-hezbollahs-anti-tank-missile-commanders-777811">‘Firepower dramatically reduced,’ IDF eliminates Hezbollah’s anti-tank missile commanders</a>

He added that his group was seeking a "complete and comprehensive end to the aggression" and "the preservation of Lebanon's sovereignty".

Qassem also vowed that Hezbollah will respond to the recent deadly Israeli air strikes on Beirut with an attack on "central Tel Aviv", Israel's densely populated commercial hub.

<h2>Israel has 'freedom to act' against Hezbollah</h2>

In a near-simultaneous statement to Qassem's, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said that any ceasefire deal must ensure that Israel still has the "freedom to act" against the militant group Hezbollah.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-blocks-un-push-calling-for-ceasefire-in-gaza-777763">Israel-Hamas war: US blocks UN push calling for ceasefire in Gaza</a>

<h2>Hochstein's mediation efforts</h2>

US mediator Amos Hochstein, as per reports, announced plans to travel to Israel after discussions in Beirut aimed at brokering a ceasefire.&nbsp;

Before leaving for Israel, he met with Lebanon's Hezbollah-allied parliament speaker Nabih Berri, who has led mediation efforts on Hezbollah's behalf.

Hochstein expressed cautious optimism and said Wednesday's meeting "made additional progress, so I will travel from here in a couple hours to Israel to try to bring this to a close if we can".

Previously, on Tuesday (Nov 19) he said that an end to the war was "within our grasp". 
&nbsp; 
The escalating conflict has had devastating consequences, with over 3,500 deaths reported in Lebanon since September, including 200 children. In Gaza, where the war initially began, the death toll from the resulting war has reached 43,985 people, a majority of them civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hezbollah Leader Naim Qassem in a defiant speech on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon, asserting that Israel "cannot impose its conditions".

Hezbollah Leader Naim Qassem in a defiant speech on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon, asserting that Israel "cannot impose its conditions". The Hezbollah leader's statement comes as US envoy Amos Hochstein headed to Israel to try to negotiate an end to the war. Qassem, in his address, asserted, "Israel cannot defeat us and cannot impose its conditions on us." Also read | ‘Firepower dramatically reduced,’ IDF eliminates Hezbollah’s anti-tank missile commanders He added that his group was seeking a "complete and comprehensive end to the aggression" and "the preservation of Lebanon's sovereignty". Qassem also vowed that Hezbollah will respond to the recent deadly Israeli air strikes on Beirut with an attack on "central Tel Aviv", Israel's densely populated commercial hub. Israel has 'freedom to act' against Hezbollah In a near-simultaneous statement to Qassem's, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said that any ceasefire deal must ensure that Israel still has the "freedom to act" against the militant group Hezbollah. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US blocks UN push calling for ceasefire in Gaza Hochstein's mediation efforts US mediator Amos Hochstein, as per reports, announced plans to travel to Israel after discussions in Beirut aimed at brokering a ceasefire. Before leaving for Israel, he met with Lebanon's Hezbollah-allied parliament speaker Nabih Berri, who has led mediation efforts on Hezbollah's behalf. Hochstein expressed cautious optimism and said Wednesday's meeting "made additional progress, so I will travel from here in a couple hours to Israel to try to bring this to a close if we can". Previously, on Tuesday (Nov 19) he said that an end to the war was "within our grasp". The escalating conflict has had devastating consequences, with over 3,500 deaths reported in Lebanon since September, including 200 children. In Gaza, where the war initially began, the death toll from the resulting war has reached 43,985 people, a majority of them civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

'Israel cannot defeat us': Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejects ceasefire terms

Canada’s food crisis has grown so intense that over 25 per cent of parents in the country are forced to reduce their own intake in order to ensure their children have enough to eat, a survey has found. Salvation Army, a non-profit charity organisation, released the details of the survey earlier this month, which revealed that Canadian parents are facing a "disproportionate number of challenges" related to the cost of living.

"The reality is that many Canadians continue to have trouble meeting their daily basic needs for themselves and, much more importantly, for their children and their family members," a spokesperson of the group was quoted as saying by CBC News. "And that, for us as an organisation, signals a deep, deep crisis for us in the country," he added.

The group also revealed that 90 per cent of the respondents have cut down expenses on groceries to have enough money for other financial obligations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi9rPqg7O2JAxWLklYBHWJVKfwQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-police-rules-out-foul-play-in-indian-teen-girls-death-in-walmart-oven-777415" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-police-rules-out-foul-play-in-indian-teen-girls-death-in-walmart-oven-777415&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi9rPqg7O2JAxWLklYBHWJVKfwQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Canadian police rules out `foul play` in Indian teen girl`s death in Walmart oven</a>

This comes at a time when the government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing pressure to introduce a break on Goods and Services Tax (GST) for some essential items to keep prices down and fix the cost of living crisis. As Canada heads to general elections next year, Trudeau's administration is wary that the cost of living crisis, bundled with the country’s raging housing crisis, can weigh down its chances of a re-election.

Earlier, the Daily Bread Food Bank and North York Harvest Food Bank revealed in their report that Toronto food banks were experiencing a surge in traffic, with visits exceeding the city’s total population.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi9rPqg7O2JAxWLklYBHWJVKfwQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/canadian-minister-meets-pro-khalistan-group-world-sikh-organisation-amid-diplomatic-standoff-with-india-777371" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/canadian-minister-meets-pro-khalistan-group-world-sikh-organisation-amid-diplomatic-standoff-with-india-777371&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi9rPqg7O2JAxWLklYBHWJVKfwQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Canadian Minister meets pro-Khalistan group 'World Sikh Organisation' amid diplomatic standoff with India</a>

The city apparently recorded 3.5 million food bank visits in 2023, marking a 36 per cent increase from the previous year.

"From April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, Toronto food banks served a record-breaking 3.49 million client visits—almost 1 million more than last year. This figure exceeds the City of Toronto’s entire population," the report said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Canada’s food crisis has grown so intense that over 25 per cent of parents in the country are forced to reduce their own intake in order to ensure their children have enough to eat, a survey has found.

Canada’s food crisis has grown so intense that over 25 per cent of parents in the country are forced to reduce their own intake in order to ensure their children have enough to eat, a survey has found. Salvation Army, a non-profit charity organisation, released the details of the survey earlier this month, which revealed that Canadian parents are facing a "disproportionate number of challenges" related to the cost of living. "The reality is that many Canadians continue to have trouble meeting their daily basic needs for themselves and, much more importantly, for their children and their family members," a spokesperson of the group was quoted as saying by CBC News. "And that, for us as an organisation, signals a deep, deep crisis for us in the country," he added. The group also revealed that 90 per cent of the respondents have cut down expenses on groceries to have enough money for other financial obligations. Also read: Canadian police rules out `foul play` in Indian teen girl`s death in Walmart oven This comes at a time when the government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing pressure to introduce a break on Goods and Services Tax (GST) for some essential items to keep prices down and fix the cost of living crisis. As Canada heads to general elections next year, Trudeau's administration is wary that the cost of living crisis, bundled with the country’s raging housing crisis, can weigh down its chances of a re-election. Earlier, the Daily Bread Food Bank and North York Harvest Food Bank revealed in their report that Toronto food banks were experiencing a surge in traffic, with visits exceeding the city’s total population. Also read: Canadian Minister meets pro-Khalistan group 'World Sikh Organisation' amid diplomatic standoff with India The city apparently recorded 3.5 million food bank visits in 2023, marking a 36 per cent increase from the previous year. "From April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, Toronto food banks served a record-breaking 3.49 million client visits—almost 1 million more than last year. This figure exceeds the City of Toronto’s entire population," the report said. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada reeling under massive food crisis, 25% parents eating less to feed kids: Report

Hundreds of migrants left the Mexican city of Tapachula on foot Wednesday, aiming to arrive at the US border before President-elect Donald Trump -- who has vowed massive deportations -- takes office in January.

The group of about 1,500 people set out from Tapachula in southern Mexico in the early morning hours for a walk of some 2,600 kilometers (over 1,600 miles).

"My mentality is to get there, I want my (asylum) appointment before he (Trump) takes power," Colombian Yamel Enriquez told AFP.

"If I don't get the appointment before, I will give myself over to whatever God wants."

Venezuelan Zuleika Carreno joined the exodus with the same single-minded purpose.

She said she decided not to postpone her departure "for fear of getting stuck on this side" of the border, which would mean her laborious travels so far would have been "in vain."

Trump, who won an election in which illegal migration was a top issue, has vowed to declare a national emergency on border security and use the US military to carry out a mass deportation of undocumented migrants.

Authorities estimate that some 11 million people are living in the United States illegally, and Trump has stoked concerns by claiming an "invasion" is underway by migrants he says will rape and murder Americans.

On Wednesday, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government was preparing a document highlighting the contribution of workers from her country to the US economy.&nbsp;

Migrants who amass in Mexico from a variety of troubled countries with a view to a better life in the United States frequently organize group movements known as "caravans" in a bid to pressure authorities into giving them temporary Mexican visas.

Sticking together also reduces the risk of criminal attacks, but the migrants groups usually disperse along the way.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Hundreds of migrants left the Mexican city of Tapachula on foot Wednesday, aiming to arrive at the US border before President-elect Donald Trump -- who has vowed massive deportations -- takes office in January.

Hundreds of migrants left the Mexican city of Tapachula on foot Wednesday, aiming to arrive at the US border before President-elect Donald Trump -- who has vowed massive deportations -- takes office in January. The group of about 1,500 people set out from Tapachula in southern Mexico in the early morning hours for a walk of some 2,600 kilometers (over 1,600 miles). "My mentality is to get there, I want my (asylum) appointment before he (Trump) takes power," Colombian Yamel Enriquez told AFP. "If I don't get the appointment before, I will give myself over to whatever God wants." Venezuelan Zuleika Carreno joined the exodus with the same single-minded purpose. She said she decided not to postpone her departure "for fear of getting stuck on this side" of the border, which would mean her laborious travels so far would have been "in vain." Trump, who won an election in which illegal migration was a top issue, has vowed to declare a national emergency on border security and use the US military to carry out a mass deportation of undocumented migrants. Authorities estimate that some 11 million people are living in the United States illegally, and Trump has stoked concerns by claiming an "invasion" is underway by migrants he says will rape and murder Americans. On Wednesday, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government was preparing a document highlighting the contribution of workers from her country to the US economy. Migrants who amass in Mexico from a variety of troubled countries with a view to a better life in the United States frequently organize group movements known as "caravans" in a bid to pressure authorities into giving them temporary Mexican visas. Sticking together also reduces the risk of criminal attacks, but the migrants groups usually disperse along the way. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hundreds of migrants set out on 2,600-kilometre trek to US border before Trump takes office

Mental Conditioning coach Paddy Upton is helping India's D Gukesh prepare for the World Chess Championship. The South African spoke to WION Sports Correspondent Vidur Kathuria on how he is assisting Gukesh's World Championship challenge.

Mind Guru Paddy Upton: Gukesh A Big Game Player Like Kohli

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