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In its&nbsp;first&nbsp;statement&nbsp;following the death of&nbsp;Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar's death, the Palestinian militant group&nbsp;on Friday (Oct 18) said&nbsp;that their&nbsp;movement "cannot be eliminated", adding that it&nbsp;is a liberation movement.&nbsp;

Hamas political bureau member Basem Naim said it would continue “the struggle of the Palestinian people”.

“Hamas is a liberation movement led by people looking for freedom and dignity, and this cannot be eliminated,” he said in a statement. “We believe that our destiny is one of two good things, either victory or martyrdom.”

“Yes it’s very painful and distressing to lose beloved people, especially extraordinary leaders like ours, but what we are sure of is that we are; this is the outcome for all people who fought for their liberty," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>IDF hunting Sinwar's brother</h2>

After killing the Hamas leader&nbsp;in Gaza, the Israel&nbsp;Defense Forces (IDF) said that they are now actively hunting for Muhammad Sinwar, Yahya’s brother, and all other senior&nbsp;commanders of the Palestinian militant group.

IDF Spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said the Israeli forces will continue their operations in Gaza to target the Iranian-backed group and its infrastructure.

<h2>'Turning point': Biden hails Sinwar's death&nbsp;</h2>

United States President Joe Biden called the death of the Hamas chief a "turning point" in the war, while Iran called&nbsp;him a “martyr”.

"This is a good day for Israel, for the United States, and for the world,” Biden said. “To my Israeli friends, this is no doubt a day of relief and reminiscence, similar to the scenes witnessed throughout the United States after President Obama ordered the raid to kill Osama Bin Laden in 2011.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shocking-video-shows-hamas-chief-yahya-sinwars-last-moments-768526">Also read:&nbsp;Yahya Sinwar Drone Footage | Shocking video shows Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar's last moments</a>

<h2>Sinwar's body moved to secret location&nbsp;</h2>

The body of Hamas leader Sinwar has been moved to a secret location inside Israel after undergoing an autopsy at the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute overnight, according to Israeli media reports.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Yahya Sinwar, Hamas Chief Killed In Gaza Operation: Israel | IDF | Netanyahu | WION Originals

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The autopsy confirmed that Sinwar was killed by a gunshot to the head and by shell fire, according to the media&nbsp;report. However, the forensic institute is waiting for the findings of additional tests to determine whether there were drugs or other unusual substances in his blood at the time of his death.

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)

In its first statement following the death of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar's death, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Oct 18) said that their movement "cannot be eliminated", adding that it is a liberation movement.

In its first statement following the death of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar's death, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Oct 18) said that their movement "cannot be eliminated", adding that it is a liberation movement. Hamas political bureau member Basem Naim said it would continue “the struggle of the Palestinian people”. “Hamas is a liberation movement led by people looking for freedom and dignity, and this cannot be eliminated,” he said in a statement. “We believe that our destiny is one of two good things, either victory or martyrdom.” “Yes it’s very painful and distressing to lose beloved people, especially extraordinary leaders like ours, but what we are sure of is that we are; this is the outcome for all people who fought for their liberty," he added. IDF hunting Sinwar's brother After killing the Hamas leader in Gaza, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that they are now actively hunting for Muhammad Sinwar, Yahya’s brother, and all other senior commanders of the Palestinian militant group. IDF Spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said the Israeli forces will continue their operations in Gaza to target the Iranian-backed group and its infrastructure. 'Turning point': Biden hails Sinwar's death United States President Joe Biden called the death of the Hamas chief a "turning point" in the war, while Iran called him a “martyr”. "This is a good day for Israel, for the United States, and for the world,” Biden said. “To my Israeli friends, this is no doubt a day of relief and reminiscence, similar to the scenes witnessed throughout the United States after President Obama ordered the raid to kill Osama Bin Laden in 2011.” Also read: Yahya Sinwar Drone Footage | Shocking video shows Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar's last moments Sinwar's body moved to secret location The body of Hamas leader Sinwar has been moved to a secret location inside Israel after undergoing an autopsy at the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute overnight, according to Israeli media reports. Watch | Yahya Sinwar, Hamas Chief Killed In Gaza Operation: Israel | IDF | Netanyahu | WION Originals × The autopsy confirmed that Sinwar was killed by a gunshot to the head and by shell fire, according to the media report. However, the forensic institute is waiting for the findings of additional tests to determine whether there were drugs or other unusual substances in his blood at the time of his death. 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)

'Movement cannot be eliminated': Hamas releases first message after Sinwar's death

UK's foreign secretary David Lamy has called Britain's engagement with China pragmatic and necessary. Lammy's two-day visit includes a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing on Friday before visiting Shanghai to meet British businesses operating in China.

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With Israeli forces confirming Sinwar's killing, the year long hunt for the Hamas leader comes to an end. It's a good day for the world that is what the US President Joe Biden said who spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the phone and congratulated him.

Israel-Hamas: Biden Calls Netanyahu To 'Congratulate' Him After Sinwar's Killing

Tennis icons Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz may join forces to represent Spain in the upcoming Davis Cup Finals. This potential partnership between the seasoned champion and rising star has excited fans, as it would strengthen Spain's chances of securing the prestigious team tennis title. Their collaboration could mark a historic moment for Spanish tennis, with both players bringing their unique strengths to the court.

Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz May Team Up For Spain In Davis Cup Finals

Ahead of the November 5th presidential elections in the United States, Washington has sent a second flight of undocumented Chinese migrants back to China, in a bid to help Beijing reduce undocumented migration. Watch to know more.

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The United States has charged a former Indian official for his role in a foiled plot to kill a Sikh separatist leader. 39-year-old Vikash Yadav is charged with conspiracy to commit murder for hire and money laundering. He's the second Indian national after Nikhil Gupta to be charged in the alleged plot to kill Pannun.

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Israel confirmed Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind of the October 7 attack on Israel last year, has been killed in Gaza. The Israeli army also released footage of what it says - shows Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar moments before he was killed in southern Gaza's Rafah.

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli Army Says Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar Killed in Southern Gaza's Rafah

Israel-Hamas War: IDF Says Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar is Killed in Israeli Strike

A four-year-old girl in the US state of&nbsp;Oregon was chased by a coyote in her backyard and was saved by her father on time. A surveillance video shows the scared little girl running as the coyote chases her. However, she managed to stay&nbsp;calm and showed presence of mind as she climbed onto a table.&nbsp;

Her father can be seen working in the backyard when she runs into the frame telling her dad, "There's a coyote".&nbsp;

He doesn't believe her at first, saying, "No!" But then he turns around to see that the coyote is chasing after her daughter.

The girl climbed onto a table after which the coyote ran out of the backyard. The father then dashes towards the girl, picks her up and runs inside as someone can be heard screaming "Get inside!"

The incident happened on October 12 in a Portland home. Charlie Schmidt, the father of the girl, said that no one was injured following the scary encounter.

The video does not show which way the coyote goes later on.

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CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO: A 4-year-old girl was chased by a coyote in her backyard in Portland. Her dad didn't believe her until he turned around and saw it himself! <a href="https://t.co/Y1jx3kKBhE">https://t.co/Y1jx3kKBhE</a> <a href="https://t.co/vekXM6O2K8">pic.twitter.com/vekXM6O2K8</a>
— KREM 2 NEWS (@KREM2) <a href="https://twitter.com/KREM2/status/1846642355668996391?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Coyotes are becoming less fearful of humans</h2>

Coyotes are also known as American jackals or prairie wolves. It is smaller than the grey wolf but its ears are longer.

They are common in some urban settings and are normally not known to be aggressive, as per &nbsp;San Francisco Animal Care &amp; Control. Urban coyotes are used to human beings and their setting and are not as afraid of people. They are increasingly losing their fear of humans, especially because of human-animal interaction where people have been feeding them.

Coyotes are not generally known to attack humans but there have been reports of a few attacks in the past years. To date, two known fatal attacks have been confirmed. One of them was of three-year-old Kelly Keen in Glendale, California, while the other was of nineteen-year-old singer-songwriter Taylor Mitchell in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Most of the attacks have been reported from the Los Angeles area in the US.

A four-year-old girl in the US state of Oregon was chased by a coyote in her backyard and was saved by her father on time. A surveillance video shows the scared little girl running as the coyote chases her.

A four-year-old girl in the US state of Oregon was chased by a coyote in her backyard and was saved by her father on time. A surveillance video shows the scared little girl running as the coyote chases her. However, she managed to stay calm and showed presence of mind as she climbed onto a table. Her father can be seen working in the backyard when she runs into the frame telling her dad, "There's a coyote". He doesn't believe her at first, saying, "No!" But then he turns around to see that the coyote is chasing after her daughter. The girl climbed onto a table after which the coyote ran out of the backyard. The father then dashes towards the girl, picks her up and runs inside as someone can be heard screaming "Get inside!" The incident happened on October 12 in a Portland home. Charlie Schmidt, the father of the girl, said that no one was injured following the scary encounter. The video does not show which way the coyote goes later on. CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO: A 4-year-old girl was chased by a coyote in her backyard in Portland. Her dad didn't believe her until he turned around and saw it himself! https://t.co/Y1jx3kKBhE pic.twitter.com/vekXM6O2K8 — KREM 2 NEWS (@KREM2) October 16, 2024 × Coyotes are becoming less fearful of humans Coyotes are also known as American jackals or prairie wolves. It is smaller than the grey wolf but its ears are longer. They are common in some urban settings and are normally not known to be aggressive, as per San Francisco Animal Care & Control. Urban coyotes are used to human beings and their setting and are not as afraid of people. They are increasingly losing their fear of humans, especially because of human-animal interaction where people have been feeding them. Coyotes are not generally known to attack humans but there have been reports of a few attacks in the past years. To date, two known fatal attacks have been confirmed. One of them was of three-year-old Kelly Keen in Glendale, California, while the other was of nineteen-year-old singer-songwriter Taylor Mitchell in Nova Scotia, Canada. Most of the attacks have been reported from the Los Angeles area in the US.

Video: Scary footage shows young girl being chased by coyote in Portland

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used at alarming levels for generating child sexual abuse material (CSAM), with analysts saying that it has reached a tipping point.

The watchdog group Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) said that the creation and distribution of AI-generated CSAM are becoming increasingly sophisticated too.&nbsp;

Unlike in the past, these images and videos are finding their way into public online platforms&nbsp;as opposed to the Dark Web, the internet underbelly accessible only through special browsers like Tor.

Watch: US Prosecutors Intensify Action Against AI-Generated Child Abuse Images

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The increasing photorealism of AI-generated visuals is making it difficult for authorities and watchdog agencies to figure out if these are images of a real child needing help, a situation described by an IWF analyst as a 'tipping point'.

What set alarm bells ringing is that just within the past six months, the number of instances of reported AI-generated child sex abuse imagery crossed what it was in the whole previous year.

In this period, the IWF acted on 74 reports of such content, a sharp rise from 70 in all the 12 months prior.&nbsp;

What's more disturbing is that the AI tools creating these images are trained on real victims' content, complicating efforts to identify genuine cases needing intervention, according to Derek Ray-Hill, the IWF interim chief executive.

“Recent months show that this problem is not going away and is in fact getting worse,” The Guardian newspaper quoted him as saying.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-report-exposes-extreme-levels-of-child-abuse-in-armed-conflicts-especially-in-gaza-and-sudan-730923">Also read: UN report exposes 'extreme levels' of child abuse in armed conflicts, especially in Gaza and Sudan</a> 
 
The abuse content ranges from real-looking deepfake videos to altered inappropriate images of clothed children.

More than half of the flagged material is hosted on servers in Russia and the United States, besides Japan and the Netherlands, according to IWF.

The disturbing news comes amid increasing criticism of social media apps over offering safe haven to abusers, and sextortion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-catholic-diocese-to-pay-323mn-to-530-child-sex-abuse-survivors-in-largest-diocese-bankruptcy-762507">Also read: New York Catholic diocese to pay $323mn to 530 child sex abuse survivors, in largest US diocese bankruptcy</a> 
 
Users on platforms like Instagram are being blackmailed after being tricked into sharing intimate images, according to the Guardian report.

The image-sharing platform owned by Meta is reportedly launching measures to combat such crimes. 
 
It will automatically blur nude images sent via direct messages and caution users about opening them. They will also have the option to block or report senders of such images.

The feature will be enabled by default for teenage accounts while adults can opt in to join.

(With inputs from agencies)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used at alarming levels for generating child sexual abuse material (CSAM), with analysts saying that it has reached a tipping point.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used at alarming levels for generating child sexual abuse material (CSAM), with analysts saying that it has reached a tipping point. The watchdog group Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) said that the creation and distribution of AI-generated CSAM are becoming increasingly sophisticated too. Unlike in the past, these images and videos are finding their way into public online platforms as opposed to the Dark Web, the internet underbelly accessible only through special browsers like Tor. Watch: US Prosecutors Intensify Action Against AI-Generated Child Abuse Images × The increasing photorealism of AI-generated visuals is making it difficult for authorities and watchdog agencies to figure out if these are images of a real child needing help, a situation described by an IWF analyst as a 'tipping point'. What set alarm bells ringing is that just within the past six months, the number of instances of reported AI-generated child sex abuse imagery crossed what it was in the whole previous year. In this period, the IWF acted on 74 reports of such content, a sharp rise from 70 in all the 12 months prior. What's more disturbing is that the AI tools creating these images are trained on real victims' content, complicating efforts to identify genuine cases needing intervention, according to Derek Ray-Hill, the IWF interim chief executive. “Recent months show that this problem is not going away and is in fact getting worse,” The Guardian newspaper quoted him as saying. Also read: UN report exposes 'extreme levels' of child abuse in armed conflicts, especially in Gaza and Sudan The abuse content ranges from real-looking deepfake videos to altered inappropriate images of clothed children. More than half of the flagged material is hosted on servers in Russia and the United States, besides Japan and the Netherlands, according to IWF. The disturbing news comes amid increasing criticism of social media apps over offering safe haven to abusers, and sextortion. Also read: New York Catholic diocese to pay $323mn to 530 child sex abuse survivors, in largest US diocese bankruptcy Users on platforms like Instagram are being blackmailed after being tricked into sharing intimate images, according to the Guardian report. The image-sharing platform owned by Meta is reportedly launching measures to combat such crimes. It will automatically blur nude images sent via direct messages and caution users about opening them. They will also have the option to block or report senders of such images. The feature will be enabled by default for teenage accounts while adults can opt in to join. (With inputs from agencies)

AI-generated child sex abuse images, videos rising at alarming levels, warn internet watchdogs

Britain is facing a serious productivity crisis, according to a new report by the institute for fiscal studies and Citi. The report reveals that UK productivity growth has flatlined since the global financial crisis. The country’s potential output per worker is now at levels not seen since the 1850s. Watch in for more details!

UK's Potential Output Per Worker Hits Record Low: Report

U.S. President Joe Biden and key allies have convened in Berlin to renew their call for a ceasefire in Gaza, urging both sides to halt escalating violence. The leaders are pushing for humanitarian aid to reach civilians caught in the conflict, emphasizing the need for diplomatic efforts to end hostilities. This renewed international focus comes amid rising casualties and concerns over regional stability.

BREAKING: US President Joe Biden, Allies In Berlin To Renew Gaza Truce Call

A stadium sized asteroid is heading towards Earth at a very high speed according to a warning issued by the US Space Agency NASA about 710 ft wide Asteroid will approach the blue planet today. Watch in for more details!

Space Agency NASA Issues Asteroid Warning

Rumours regarding Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s health have surfaced, yet again, after his comments made during live TV broadcast went viral on social media. The Kremlin later had to issue a denial, brushing off concerns about the health of the 72-year-old leader.

<h2>What did Putin say?</h2>

Putin on Thursday (Oct 17) appeared on TV alongside health minister Mikhail Murashko, where the duo encouraged people to get flu vaccinations.

Putin casually talked about how he was undergoing “regular examination” at a Moscow hospital. However, his remark triggered speculation frenzy on social media, with people raising questions over Putin’s well-being.

"Doctors at the Central Clinical Hospital, where I undergo all sorts of regular examinations, also recommend getting vaccinated with domestically produced drugs," said the Russian leader.

<h2>Kremlin issues denial</h2>

After the rumour went viral on social media, the Kremlin had to come to Putin’s rescue. In a statement, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the Russian leader was referring to routine check-ups and was not facing any serious illness.

"He meant routine medical examinations," Peskov said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjF_d6My5eJAxWH9DgGHTZ3G78QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-evades-questions-about-his-friendship-with-putin-says-i-dont-comment-on-that-what-is-he-hiding-767880" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-evades-questions-about-his-friendship-with-putin-says-i-dont-comment-on-that-what-is-he-hiding-767880&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjF_d6My5eJAxWH9DgGHTZ3G78QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Trump dodges questions about his friendship with Putin, says 'I don't comment on that'—what is he hiding?</a>

State news agency TASS was deployed to insist that Putin 'has no health problems' as it emphasised his visits to a hospital known as the Kremlin Clinic were for normal check-ups.

<h2>Rumours over Putin’s health</h2>

Putin’s health remains a subject of intense rumours and speculations in Ukrainian and Western media.

In 2022, head of Ukraine's military intelligence Major General Kyrylo Budanov claimed that Putin was using body doubles due to serious illness.

He even pointed out alleged variations in Putin’s public appearances.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjF_d6My5eJAxWH9DgGHTZ3G78QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harriss-remarks-on-putin-as-murderous-dictator-exposes-us-view-of-world-says-kremlin-766938" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harriss-remarks-on-putin-as-murderous-dictator-exposes-us-view-of-world-says-kremlin-766938&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjF_d6My5eJAxWH9DgGHTZ3G78QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Kamala Harris calls Putin 'murderous dictator', Kremlin says her remarks expose US view of world</a>

Earlier this year, Andriy Yusov, another Ukrainian intelligence official, claimed that Putin’s visit to occupied Ukrainian regions was staged with doubles.

"Putin uses doubles," Yusov reportedly told Ukrainian media.

However, all these speculations about Putin’s health remain unproven to date, with Kremlin issuing denials time-to-time of such media and intelligence reports.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rumours regarding Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s health have surfaced, yet again, after his comments made during live TV broadcast went viral on social media. The Kremlin later had to issue a denial, brushing off concerns about the health of the 72-year-old leader.

Rumours regarding Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s health have surfaced, yet again, after his comments made during live TV broadcast went viral on social media. The Kremlin later had to issue a denial, brushing off concerns about the health of the 72-year-old leader. What did Putin say? Putin on Thursday (Oct 17) appeared on TV alongside health minister Mikhail Murashko, where the duo encouraged people to get flu vaccinations. Putin casually talked about how he was undergoing “regular examination” at a Moscow hospital. However, his remark triggered speculation frenzy on social media, with people raising questions over Putin’s well-being. "Doctors at the Central Clinical Hospital, where I undergo all sorts of regular examinations, also recommend getting vaccinated with domestically produced drugs," said the Russian leader. Kremlin issues denial After the rumour went viral on social media, the Kremlin had to come to Putin’s rescue. In a statement, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the Russian leader was referring to routine check-ups and was not facing any serious illness. "He meant routine medical examinations," Peskov said. Also read: Trump dodges questions about his friendship with Putin, says 'I don't comment on that'—what is he hiding? State news agency TASS was deployed to insist that Putin 'has no health problems' as it emphasised his visits to a hospital known as the Kremlin Clinic were for normal check-ups. Rumours over Putin’s health Putin’s health remains a subject of intense rumours and speculations in Ukrainian and Western media. In 2022, head of Ukraine's military intelligence Major General Kyrylo Budanov claimed that Putin was using body doubles due to serious illness. He even pointed out alleged variations in Putin’s public appearances. Also read: Kamala Harris calls Putin 'murderous dictator', Kremlin says her remarks expose US view of world Earlier this year, Andriy Yusov, another Ukrainian intelligence official, claimed that Putin’s visit to occupied Ukrainian regions was staged with doubles. "Putin uses doubles," Yusov reportedly told Ukrainian media. However, all these speculations about Putin’s health remain unproven to date, with Kremlin issuing denials time-to-time of such media and intelligence reports. (With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin says all okay after Putin’s comments on live TV fuel health rumours

Trigger warning: Contents of the story might be disturbing for some readers. Discretion advised

 
A young humpback had its jaw ripped off by a ferry last week following a head-on collision. Tragic footage of the aftermath shows the bloodied whale with its upper mouth sliced off.&nbsp;

Wildlife organisation Sea Shepard claims that the boat that struck the female whale, named Sweet Girl, was travelling six times the permitted speed. The incident happened near a port in Tahiti on October 8 where the whale was swimming.

Conservationist divers took shots of the whale which showed the animal's upper mouth completely torn off and blood pouring out of the wounds as she tried to reach the surface. The young whale can also be heard screaming in pain.

Sea Shepard shared the video and said that the whale died after "several hours of agony". The organisation claimed that the ferry was travelling at a speed of 30 knots through a port where the speed limit was five knots.

Marine conservation group Mata Tohora was called to the scene, but the whale died soon after its arrival, Daily Mail reported.

"It drowned due to impacts and fractures to the nasal bone in particular," Doctor Agnès Benet, founder of Mata Tohora, said.

The two organisations have filed a complaint with the local government and are asking for a criminal investigation into the matter.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mass-extinction-event-that-occurred-40-years-back-never-happened-its-a-miracle-768320">Shocking study says THIS mass extinction event never happened</a>

"We will do everything possible to identify and convict the criminals who did this. We are also launching an appeal for witnesses," the group said.&nbsp;

<h2>Sweet Girl humpback whale dies</h2>

Sweet Girl was known to several enthusiasts in the region. One such person was Rachel Moore, an underwater photographer, who had spent time with the whale four days before her tragic death. She shared a tribute to her on her Instagram page.

WARNING: GRAPHIC VIDEO. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED

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Attention - Images difficiles de l'agonie de "Sweet girl", cette jeune baleine à bosse percutée de plein fouet par une saloperie de chauffard des mers à Tahiti le 8 octobre dernier. La vidéo est à regarder avec le son pour entendre les vocalises de détresse. Sweet Girl est morte… <a href="https://t.co/mTF9Rdtp0u">pic.twitter.com/mTF9Rdtp0u</a>
— Sea Shepherd France (@SeaShepherdFran) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeaShepherdFran/status/1846476171908710458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"She had many names here, but I liked to call her Sweet Girl. Over the past few weeks, she touched so many lives," Moore wrote.

"She was brutally disfigured and endured hours of pain and suffering before finally succumbing to her wounds and drowning."

Grieving her death, Moore described the whale as "kind" and "curious".&nbsp;

<h2>Whale watching in Tahiti</h2>

Tourism in the French Polynesia islands largely depends on whale watching. The region is home to the world's largest marine mammal sanctuary. However, environmental associations rue the promotion of tourism in the area.&nbsp;

Agnes Benet, a biologist and founder of Mata Tohora, said, "We need to limit the number of boats around the whales and dolphins. It's a question of managing the activity, which needs to be done quickly."

Meanwhile, officials say they have taken steps to protect the whales. According to regulations, a safety distance of 330 feet between the animal and authorised boats must be maintained. Swimmers need to stay 50 feet away from the animals.

Notably, there are around 80,000 humpback whales worldwide, with nearly 3,200 living around the Islands of Tahiti.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Trigger warning: Contents of the story might be disturbing for some readers. Discretion advised A young humpback had its jaw ripped off by a ferry last week following a head-on collision.

Trigger warning: Contents of the story might be disturbing for some readers. Discretion advised A young humpback had its jaw ripped off by a ferry last week following a head-on collision. Tragic footage of the aftermath shows the bloodied whale with its upper mouth sliced off. Wildlife organisation Sea Shepard claims that the boat that struck the female whale, named Sweet Girl, was travelling six times the permitted speed. The incident happened near a port in Tahiti on October 8 where the whale was swimming. Conservationist divers took shots of the whale which showed the animal's upper mouth completely torn off and blood pouring out of the wounds as she tried to reach the surface. The young whale can also be heard screaming in pain. Sea Shepard shared the video and said that the whale died after "several hours of agony". The organisation claimed that the ferry was travelling at a speed of 30 knots through a port where the speed limit was five knots. Marine conservation group Mata Tohora was called to the scene, but the whale died soon after its arrival, Daily Mail reported. "It drowned due to impacts and fractures to the nasal bone in particular," Doctor Agnès Benet, founder of Mata Tohora, said. The two organisations have filed a complaint with the local government and are asking for a criminal investigation into the matter. Also Read: Shocking study says THIS mass extinction event never happened "We will do everything possible to identify and convict the criminals who did this. We are also launching an appeal for witnesses," the group said. Sweet Girl humpback whale dies Sweet Girl was known to several enthusiasts in the region. One such person was Rachel Moore, an underwater photographer, who had spent time with the whale four days before her tragic death. She shared a tribute to her on her Instagram page. WARNING: GRAPHIC VIDEO. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED Attention - Images difficiles de l'agonie de "Sweet girl", cette jeune baleine à bosse percutée de plein fouet par une saloperie de chauffard des mers à Tahiti le 8 octobre dernier. La vidéo est à regarder avec le son pour entendre les vocalises de détresse. Sweet Girl est morte… pic.twitter.com/mTF9Rdtp0u — Sea Shepherd France (@SeaShepherdFran) October 16, 2024 × "She had many names here, but I liked to call her Sweet Girl. Over the past few weeks, she touched so many lives," Moore wrote. "She was brutally disfigured and endured hours of pain and suffering before finally succumbing to her wounds and drowning." Grieving her death, Moore described the whale as "kind" and "curious". Whale watching in Tahiti Tourism in the French Polynesia islands largely depends on whale watching. The region is home to the world's largest marine mammal sanctuary. However, environmental associations rue the promotion of tourism in the area. Agnes Benet, a biologist and founder of Mata Tohora, said, "We need to limit the number of boats around the whales and dolphins. It's a question of managing the activity, which needs to be done quickly." Meanwhile, officials say they have taken steps to protect the whales. According to regulations, a safety distance of 330 feet between the animal and authorised boats must be maintained. Swimmers need to stay 50 feet away from the animals. Notably, there are around 80,000 humpback whales worldwide, with nearly 3,200 living around the Islands of Tahiti.

Humpback whale suffers agonising death after ferry rips apart its mouth; rights group shares tragic video

A man who "died" three times as an eight-year-old 27 years back is now sharing everything he experienced in those moments. Landon and his parents were in a tragic car accident while returning home from church in North Carolina. He survived the crash but not before he died "three times".&nbsp;

Landon told Christian Broadcasting Network that he not only saw his father who died in the crash in the afterlife, but also his father's friend and two of his siblings who were never born.

The family's car was struck side-on by an ambulance at an intersection. The accident killed his father Kemp instantly. The emergency services arrived at the scene soon after and only found his mother Julie Kemp. They stabilised her and didn't know about Landon being there as well.

He was sitting behind his father and when the rescuers saw his shoe, they started digging into the wreckage to locate the third passenger.

"They couldn't see his body because of the damage that was done to the driver's side of the car," Julie told the Christian Broadcasting Network.&nbsp;

 
"When they saw Landon's shoe, it took a deeper search for his body."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/neurosurgeon-says-he-reached-heaven-saw-om-while-in-coma-shares-proof-of-it-being-real-760316">Neurosurgeon says he reached 'heaven', saw 'Om' while in coma</a>

Julie told CBN that after they located and pulled out Landon, he wasn't breathing. They managed to resuscitate him and flew him to Carolinas Medical Center. She says that her son "died" two more times that same day.

<h2>Landon shares visions from the afterlife</h2>

Landon was in a coma for two weeks and did not sustain brain damage. His mother told him that his father had passed away when he woke up.

Landon recalls seeing his father in heaven following his near-death experience. “I remember being able to see my dad and his friend who had passed away less than a month before he did,” Landon said.

His mother had two miscarriages before Landon was born and he says he even saw Julie’s “other two kids”. However, Landon says his family had never told him about his two siblings who were never born.

“I knew that they were my siblings even though no one had told me about them. Just being in heaven, I guess you know your own or you know who everyone is.”

He claims that every time he died, he had a different experience, "like a preview of a movie to where you only get to see certain bits and pieces".

A man who "died" three times as an eight-year-old 27 years back is now sharing everything he experienced in those moments. Landon and his parents were in a tragic car accident while returning home from church in North Carolina.

A man who "died" three times as an eight-year-old 27 years back is now sharing everything he experienced in those moments. Landon and his parents were in a tragic car accident while returning home from church in North Carolina. He survived the crash but not before he died "three times". Landon told Christian Broadcasting Network that he not only saw his father who died in the crash in the afterlife, but also his father's friend and two of his siblings who were never born. The family's car was struck side-on by an ambulance at an intersection. The accident killed his father Kemp instantly. The emergency services arrived at the scene soon after and only found his mother Julie Kemp. They stabilised her and didn't know about Landon being there as well. He was sitting behind his father and when the rescuers saw his shoe, they started digging into the wreckage to locate the third passenger. "They couldn't see his body because of the damage that was done to the driver's side of the car," Julie told the Christian Broadcasting Network. "When they saw Landon's shoe, it took a deeper search for his body." Also Read: Neurosurgeon says he reached 'heaven', saw 'Om' while in coma Julie told CBN that after they located and pulled out Landon, he wasn't breathing. They managed to resuscitate him and flew him to Carolinas Medical Center. She says that her son "died" two more times that same day. Landon shares visions from the afterlife Landon was in a coma for two weeks and did not sustain brain damage. His mother told him that his father had passed away when he woke up. Landon recalls seeing his father in heaven following his near-death experience. “I remember being able to see my dad and his friend who had passed away less than a month before he did,” Landon said. His mother had two miscarriages before Landon was born and he says he even saw Julie’s “other two kids”. However, Landon says his family had never told him about his two siblings who were never born. “I knew that they were my siblings even though no one had told me about them. Just being in heaven, I guess you know your own or you know who everyone is.” He claims that every time he died, he had a different experience, "like a preview of a movie to where you only get to see certain bits and pieces".

Man who 'died three times' at age 8 says he saw dead father and unborn siblings in after life

The Israeli cabinet has announced that Yahya Sinwar, a top Hamas leader, was killed in recent military actions. Israeli dentist recounts how medics fought to save life of the Hamas leader when he was in custody in Israel. Watch to know more.

How Israeli Medics Fought To Save Sinwar's Life

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who was the mastermind of the Palestinian militant group's October 7, 2023 attack against Israel, was killed by the Israeli military on Wednesday (Oct 16).

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who was the mastermind of the Palestinian militant group's October 7, 2023 attack against Israel, was killed by the Israeli military on Wednesday (Oct 16). Sinwar was killed during an Israeli military operation in the southern Gaza Strip. Sinwar was chosen as the militant group's overall leader after his predecessor Ismail Haniyeh was killed in July in a suspected Israeli strike during a visit to Tehran. Israel has not confirmed its involvement in the strike (that killed Haniyeh). So, who will be the successor of Yahya Sinwar? Here's a look at the possible names: Mohammed Sinwar Yahya's brother Mohammed Sinwar is under consideration to be the next leader of Hamas. He is one of the most senior, veteran commanders of the armed wing of Hamas. Born on Sept. 15, 1975, he has rarely appeared in public or spoken to the media. Also read | Shocking video shows Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar's last moments Just like his late brother, Mohammed has been one of the top targets on Israel's wanted list and, according to Hamas sources, has survived several Israeli attempts on his life, including airstrikes and roadside bomb attacks, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Mahmoud al-Zahar A surgeon by profession, al-Zahar is among the top contenders to be the next leader of Hamas. Friends and enemies used to call him "General" for his hardline views towards Israel and other opponents of Hamas. Zahar, 79, has made no public statement or appearance since October 7 last year and his fate remains unknown. Reuters reported that he survived an Israeli assassination attempt in 2003. He served as the first Hamas-appointed minister of foreign affairs after the group assumed power in Gaza in 2007 in a brief civil war with the secular Palestinian Authority, a year after it swept a parliamentary election. Khalil al-Hayya Al-Hayya was Sinwar's deputy and had recently been leading the Hamas team in indirect ceasefire talks with Israel under the supervision of Ismail Haniyeh. Also watch | Biden says Sinwar's killing by Israel 'a good day for the world' × Hayya was in the same residence when Haniyeh was struck by a short-range projectile, according to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, in Tehran, but not in the same apartment at the time of the strike. Mohammad Shabana Shabana, better known as Abu Anas Shabana, is one of the remaining top and veteran armed commanders of Hamas, heading its battalion in Rafah in the south. Reuters reported that Shabana played a significant role in developing the network of tunnels in Rafah, which were used to attack Israeli troops along the border. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Who will be the next Hamas leader after Yahya Sinwar's killing?

Pakistan Tehreek-E-Insaf is set to hold a countrywide protest against the proposed Constitutional Amendment bill. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: Imran Khan's PTI Protest Against Constitutional Amendment

The Israeli cabinet has announced that Yahya Sinwar, a top Hamas leader, was killed in recent military actions. However, Hamas officials have not yet made any public statements confirming or denying the report, leaving uncertainty over Sinwar's status. The situation is being closely monitored as tensions remain high.

Israel Says Death Of Yahya Sinwar A Heavy Blow To Palestinian Group

Following the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza’s Rafah on Thursday (Oct 17), the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has said it is now actively hunting for Muhammad Sinwar, Yahya’s brother, and all other senior Hamas commanders. IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said the Israeli forces will continue their operations in Gaza to target the Iranian-backed group and its infrastructure.

Earlier, the IDF said Yahya had “40,000 shekels on him” when he was killed. The Israeli army confirmed that they “identified him as a terrorist in a building” and did not know it was Sinwar. “We fired on the building and went in to search. We found him with a flak jacket and a gun and NIS 40,000,” the IDF said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjL_aCGtpeJAxXpTmwGHViBPQ8QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinwar-was-killed-accidentally-heres-how-idf-troops-who-didnt-have-intel-about-hamas-chief-neutralised-him-768508" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/sinwar-was-killed-accidentally-heres-how-idf-troops-who-didnt-have-intel-about-hamas-chief-neutralised-him-768508&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjL_aCGtpeJAxXpTmwGHViBPQ8QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Sinwar was killed accidentally: Here's how IDF troops who didn't have intel about Hamas chief neutralised him</a>

US Central Command (CENTCOM) chief Gen. Michael Kurilla also stressed Friday (Oct 18) that more terrorists should face the same fate as of Yahya in coming days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjL_aCGtpeJAxXpTmwGHViBPQ8QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-briefed-about-hamas-chief-sinwars-alleged-death-in-idf-operation-768469" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-briefed-about-hamas-chief-sinwars-alleged-death-in-idf-operation-768469&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjL_aCGtpeJAxXpTmwGHViBPQ8QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Israel President Herzog calls for hostages to be brought back after Hamas chief Sinwar's death</a>

“Our commitment to countering terrorists throughout the Middle East, with allies and partners, continues to be a top priority,” he said, adding that their support to “the Israel Defense Forces remains ironclad.”

<h2>IDF kills top Hezbollah commander</h2>

The IDF meanwhile said Friday it had killed the commander of Hezbollah’s Taybeh compound Mohammad Hussein Ramal in an airstrike in southern Lebanon.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjL_aCGtpeJAxXpTmwGHViBPQ8QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gantz-calls-hamas-chiefs-death-important-achievement-says-idf-will-continue-to-operate-in-gaza-strip-768497" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/gantz-calls-hamas-chiefs-death-important-achievement-says-idf-will-continue-to-operate-in-gaza-strip-768497&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjL_aCGtpeJAxXpTmwGHViBPQ8QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Benny Gantz calls Hamas chief's death 'important achievement', says 'IDF will continue to operate in Gaza'</a>

Ramal was responsible for planning and carrying out terror activities against Israel and was killed in the airstrike directed by troops of the 98th Division, the IDF said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Following the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza’s Rafah on Thursday (Oct 17), the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has said it is now actively hunting for Muhammad Sinwar, Yahya’s brother, and all other senior Hamas commanders.

Following the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza’s Rafah on Thursday (Oct 17), the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has said it is now actively hunting for Muhammad Sinwar, Yahya’s brother, and all other senior Hamas commanders. IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said the Israeli forces will continue their operations in Gaza to target the Iranian-backed group and its infrastructure. Earlier, the IDF said Yahya had “40,000 shekels on him” when he was killed. The Israeli army confirmed that they “identified him as a terrorist in a building” and did not know it was Sinwar. “We fired on the building and went in to search. We found him with a flak jacket and a gun and NIS 40,000,” the IDF said. Also read: Sinwar was killed accidentally: Here's how IDF troops who didn't have intel about Hamas chief neutralised him US Central Command (CENTCOM) chief Gen. Michael Kurilla also stressed Friday (Oct 18) that more terrorists should face the same fate as of Yahya in coming days. Also read: Israel President Herzog calls for hostages to be brought back after Hamas chief Sinwar's death “Our commitment to countering terrorists throughout the Middle East, with allies and partners, continues to be a top priority,” he said, adding that their support to “the Israel Defense Forces remains ironclad.” IDF kills top Hezbollah commander The IDF meanwhile said Friday it had killed the commander of Hezbollah’s Taybeh compound Mohammad Hussein Ramal in an airstrike in southern Lebanon. Also read: Benny Gantz calls Hamas chief's death 'important achievement', says 'IDF will continue to operate in Gaza' Ramal was responsible for planning and carrying out terror activities against Israel and was killed in the airstrike directed by troops of the 98th Division, the IDF said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Yahya Sinwar killed; hunt on for his brother and Hamas commanders: IDF

Salman Khan Gets Death Threat; Sender Warns, 'Pay Amount Or Face Fate Worse Than Baba Siddique'

An unidentified firm fell prey to a North Korean cyber criminal who got hired as a remote IT worker and hacked the company's system, the BBC reported. The company which is based in the UK, US and Australia did not want to be named.

The company hired the North Korean technician online, who faked his employment history and personal details.&nbsp;

Once given access to the company’s computer network, the hacker&nbsp;downloaded sensitive data and sent a ransom demand.&nbsp;

This is the latest case in a series of such cyber crimes where a North Korean has been masked as western remote worker.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-373-govt-websites-hacked-in-5-years-house-panel-calls-for-strengthening-digital-infrastructure-689014">India: 373 govt websites hacked in past 5 years; house panel calls for strengthening digital infrastructure</a>

The firm allowed cyber responders from SecureWorks to report the hack to spread awareness and warn others. Secureworks said the IT worker, thought to be a man, was hired in the summer as a contractor. He used the firm’s remote working tools to log into the corporate network.

He then downloaded as much company data as possible as soon as he had gained access to internal systems. The man worked with the firm for four months and even collected his salary.

Researchers say this was likely redirected to North Korea in a complex laundering process to evade western sanctions on the country.

Watch |&nbsp;‘Cyber Crime Is The New Geopolitical Weapon:’ Ex-Foreign Affairs Secretary Shyam Saran

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After the firm sacked him for poor performance, it received ransom emails containing some of the stolen data with a demand of a six-figure sum, to be paid in cryptocurrency.

The man threatens to publish or sell all the stolen information online if his demands aren’t met. The firm did not disclose whether it paid the ransom.

<h2>Fraudulent North Korean IT worker schemes&nbsp;</h2>

This case was not an isolated incident - cybersecurity authorities have been warning about the rise of North Korean infiltrators since 2022.

The US and South Korea have accused North Korea of tasking thousands of staff to take on multiple well-paid western roles remotely to earn money for the regime and avoid sanctions.

In September cyber security company Mandiant said dozens of Fortune 100 companies have been found to have accidentally hired North Koreans. However, cases of North Korean employees hacking their employers remain rare.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/gps-spoofing-that-disrupts-aircraft-rose-by-400-per-cent-will-it-cause-a-serious-accident-749487">GPS spoofing that disrupts aircraft rose by 400 per cent. Will it cause a serious accident?</a>

"This is a serious escalation of the risk from fraudulent North Korean IT worker schemes," Rafe Pilling, Director of Threat Intelligence at Secureworks, was quoted as saying by the BBC.

"No longer are they just after a steady paycheck, they are looking for higher sums, more quickly, through data theft and extortion, from inside the company defences."

(With inputs from agencies)

An unidentified firm fell prey to a North Korean cyber criminal who got hired as a remote IT worker and hacked the company's system, the BBC reported. The company which is based in the UK, US and Australia did not want to be named.

An unidentified firm fell prey to a North Korean cyber criminal who got hired as a remote IT worker and hacked the company's system, the BBC reported. The company which is based in the UK, US and Australia did not want to be named. The company hired the North Korean technician online, who faked his employment history and personal details. Once given access to the company’s computer network, the hacker downloaded sensitive data and sent a ransom demand. This is the latest case in a series of such cyber crimes where a North Korean has been masked as western remote worker. Also Read | India: 373 govt websites hacked in past 5 years; house panel calls for strengthening digital infrastructure The firm allowed cyber responders from SecureWorks to report the hack to spread awareness and warn others. Secureworks said the IT worker, thought to be a man, was hired in the summer as a contractor. He used the firm’s remote working tools to log into the corporate network. He then downloaded as much company data as possible as soon as he had gained access to internal systems. The man worked with the firm for four months and even collected his salary. Researchers say this was likely redirected to North Korea in a complex laundering process to evade western sanctions on the country. Watch | ‘Cyber Crime Is The New Geopolitical Weapon:’ Ex-Foreign Affairs Secretary Shyam Saran × After the firm sacked him for poor performance, it received ransom emails containing some of the stolen data with a demand of a six-figure sum, to be paid in cryptocurrency. The man threatens to publish or sell all the stolen information online if his demands aren’t met. The firm did not disclose whether it paid the ransom. Fraudulent North Korean IT worker schemes This case was not an isolated incident - cybersecurity authorities have been warning about the rise of North Korean infiltrators since 2022. The US and South Korea have accused North Korea of tasking thousands of staff to take on multiple well-paid western roles remotely to earn money for the regime and avoid sanctions. In September cyber security company Mandiant said dozens of Fortune 100 companies have been found to have accidentally hired North Koreans. However, cases of North Korean employees hacking their employers remain rare. Also Read | GPS spoofing that disrupts aircraft rose by 400 per cent. Will it cause a serious accident? "This is a serious escalation of the risk from fraudulent North Korean IT worker schemes," Rafe Pilling, Director of Threat Intelligence at Secureworks, was quoted as saying by the BBC. "No longer are they just after a steady paycheck, they are looking for higher sums, more quickly, through data theft and extortion, from inside the company defences." (With inputs from agencies)

Company hacked after accidentally hiring North Korean cyber criminal for a remote IT role

US presidential candidate Kamala Harris celebrates her 60th birthday on Sunday, but her US election rival Donald Trump's age is under scrutiny after several bizarre dance parties and rambling speeches.&nbsp;

To shift the polls in the elections, Kamala Harris has escalated attacks on the mental well-being of the 78-year-old Donald Trump, who is the oldest presidential candidate to date.&nbsp;

Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris said on Wednesday that "Donald Trump is increasingly unstable" after a bizarre incident of Trump spending 40 minutes on stage swaying to the music at a town hall event.&nbsp;

The US presidential elections act as a major stamina test for any candidate, but this year's race has been unusually focused on age.&nbsp;

Kamala Harris rose to lead the Democratic ticket after 81-year-old President Joe Biden stepped down following a disastrous debate performance against Trump. Harris, who is 20 years younger than Biden, gave new hope to the party as she chased down Trump in the pools.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-economy-faces-hurdles-as-imf-chief-flags-low-growth-and-high-debt-concerns-768645">Global economy faces hurdles as IMF Chief flags low growth and high debt concerns</a>

Shortly after Biden was pulled out, Trump said, "She is younger," Trump told Fox News then. "I mean, she's 60 years old... I didn't realise she was 60. I thought she was a little younger. But she is 60."&nbsp;

In the US Presidential elections of 2024, Kamala Harris has played the age card repeatedly. She released her own medical report on 12 October stating she has "excellent health" and is fit for the presidency. She also pushed Trump over his refusal to do the same. &nbsp;

Her campaign has increasingly hinted that Trump is not fit to serve another year as President, referring to his medical history and several cancelled interviews and political events.&nbsp;

Harris said on X, "What is Donald Trump trying to hide?" Her campaign also mentioned Trump's unpredictable speeches and interviews, including when he recently spoke about the possible use of the US military against internal enemies.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-retail-sales-in-september-rose-04-an-improvement-after-economic-concerns-768609">US retail sales in September rose 0.4%, an improvement after economic concerns</a>

As per the polls, this is a strong strategy for Harris. Pew Research Centre polls show that people who thought Trump was "mentally sharp" dropped from 58% in July to 52% in September. While 49% of voters said Trump's age would be a disadvantage for his Presidential candidacy, 46% said Harris's age could be advantageous for her. The age of voters is also a key issue in the elections.&nbsp;

Harris has strong support from the younger generation, but voters from the older generation might tend to lean towards Donald Trump after her attacks on his age. As per the recent CBS poll, 53% of voters in the 45-56 age group support Trump compared to 46% for Harris, and among voters aged over 65, it grows to 57% and 42%, respectively.&nbsp;

According to Nancy Hirschmann, a professor from the University of Pennsylvania, Kamala Harris also faces several prejudices about age. She told AFP, "Her age does have an effect in one sense, in that, the sexism of America really is for sure on older women." She added, "There's an added layer of sexism against older women over 50."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

US presidential candidate Kamala Harris celebrates her 60th birthday on Sunday, but her US election rival Donald Trump's age is under scrutiny after several bizarre dance parties and rambling speeches.

US presidential candidate Kamala Harris celebrates her 60th birthday on Sunday, but her US election rival Donald Trump's age is under scrutiny after several bizarre dance parties and rambling speeches. To shift the polls in the elections, Kamala Harris has escalated attacks on the mental well-being of the 78-year-old Donald Trump, who is the oldest presidential candidate to date. Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris said on Wednesday that "Donald Trump is increasingly unstable" after a bizarre incident of Trump spending 40 minutes on stage swaying to the music at a town hall event. The US presidential elections act as a major stamina test for any candidate, but this year's race has been unusually focused on age. Kamala Harris rose to lead the Democratic ticket after 81-year-old President Joe Biden stepped down following a disastrous debate performance against Trump. Harris, who is 20 years younger than Biden, gave new hope to the party as she chased down Trump in the pools. Also Read | Global economy faces hurdles as IMF Chief flags low growth and high debt concerns Shortly after Biden was pulled out, Trump said, "She is younger," Trump told Fox News then. "I mean, she's 60 years old... I didn't realise she was 60. I thought she was a little younger. But she is 60." In the US Presidential elections of 2024, Kamala Harris has played the age card repeatedly. She released her own medical report on 12 October stating she has "excellent health" and is fit for the presidency. She also pushed Trump over his refusal to do the same. Her campaign has increasingly hinted that Trump is not fit to serve another year as President, referring to his medical history and several cancelled interviews and political events. Harris said on X, "What is Donald Trump trying to hide?" Her campaign also mentioned Trump's unpredictable speeches and interviews, including when he recently spoke about the possible use of the US military against internal enemies. Also Read | US retail sales in September rose 0.4%, an improvement after economic concerns As per the polls, this is a strong strategy for Harris. Pew Research Centre polls show that people who thought Trump was "mentally sharp" dropped from 58% in July to 52% in September. While 49% of voters said Trump's age would be a disadvantage for his Presidential candidacy, 46% said Harris's age could be advantageous for her. The age of voters is also a key issue in the elections. Harris has strong support from the younger generation, but voters from the older generation might tend to lean towards Donald Trump after her attacks on his age. As per the recent CBS poll, 53% of voters in the 45-56 age group support Trump compared to 46% for Harris, and among voters aged over 65, it grows to 57% and 42%, respectively. According to Nancy Hirschmann, a professor from the University of Pennsylvania, Kamala Harris also faces several prejudices about age. She told AFP, "Her age does have an effect in one sense, in that, the sexism of America really is for sure on older women." She added, "There's an added layer of sexism against older women over 50." (With inputs from agencies)

US presidential candidate Kamala Harris turns 60 amid age controversies in the elections

PepsiCo and Coke bottlers in the West Bank are running out of cans and sugar, blocked by the prolonged closure of a Jordan border crossing, managers of two soda-bottling plants in the occupied Palestinian territory said.

In the latest global supply chain snarl due to the conflict in the Middle East, a crucial trade crossing at the Allenby bridge has been largely closed to commercial traffic since early September after a Jordanian gunman shot and killed three Israeli civilians.

Sugar and cans previously were transported to West Bank bottlers from Jordan via the bridge, according to Hatim Omari, manager of a plant that bottles Pepsi, 7UP and Mirinda for sale in the Palestinian territories and neighboring countries.

The Pepsi facility, located in Jericho, ran out of materials for its canned soft drinks about 15 days ago, Omari said, and has not been able to get new shipments of cans or sugar for more than one month. Its sugar came from Saudi Arabia, he said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-who-will-be-the-next-hamas-leader-after-yahya-sinwars-assassination-768597">Gaza war: Who will be next Hamas leader after Yahya Sinwar's assassination?</a>

A Coke bottler based in Ramallah has been running low on some soft drink flavors and is without its usual supplies of sugar and cans, according to Imad Hindi, general manager of National Beverage Company.

"If the situation continues this way, most of the private sector players including us will reach a dead end," Hindi said in a WhatsApp message.

Pepsi did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Coca-Cola declined to comment. The bottlers are separate businesses, but sometimes the U.S.-based companies hold stakes in them.

<h2>GAZA, WEST BANK COSTS SOAR</h2>

The bottlers are the latest businesses to be hit by supply chain disruptions due to the conflict in the Middle East over the past year. Houthi attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea have prompted some global consumer companies to reroute their merchandise from Asia to sail around Africa.

"From Beirut to Iran to Gaza, it’s really hard to just run a normal business and no one is immune to it," said Paul Musgrave, an associate professor of government at Georgetown University in Qatar. "You need sugar, you need cans, you need people, you need electricity, and it’s all being disrupted."

The cost of doing business in the Palestinian territories is roughly five times greater than in surrounding countries, according to Hindi, manager of the Coke bottler in the West Bank.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nijjar-was-a-foreign-terrorist-top-opposition-figure-in-canada-rips-into-trudeau-over-india-row-768529">‘Nijjar was a terrorist,’ Top oppn leader rips into PM Trudeau over India row</a>

At the Pepsi bottling franchise, which previously made 60 million liters of beverages annually, production is down roughly 35%, Omari said. Without cans, it continues to use plastic bottles, but he said margins on plastic-bottled drinks are lower.

High unemployment in the densely populated West Bank, where he said Pepsi is a dominant cola, hurts local families' ability to buy Pepsi drinks, he said.

"Our supply is weak now, and our sales are weaker."

The plant now runs one shift per day for its 200 total workers, down from three previously, Omari added.

Beyond supply shortages, consumer-led boycotts of U.S.-based brands like Coca-Cola and Pepsi have hurt companies' sales in Muslim-majority countries, where some consumers shun the soft drinks.

PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta said on Oct. 8 in a call with investors that "geopolitical tensions" have affected the company's business in the Middle East. "I don't think that's going to change in the coming months," Laguarta said.

Coca-Cola reports its financial results for the third quarter of 2024 on Oct. 23.

Israel launched an assault on Hamas in Gaza last October after an unprecedented Hamas raid of Israel killed 1,200 people and resulted in another 250 being abducted. More than 41,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza over the past year.

In the Gaza Strip, a $25 million Coca-Cola plant was destroyed. A partly-damaged Pepsi bottling plant ceased operations last October, a spokesperson for the plant 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.

PepsiCo and Coke bottlers in the West Bank are running out of cans and sugar, blocked by the prolonged closure of a Jordan border crossing, managers of two soda-bottling plants in the occupied Palestinian territory said.

PepsiCo and Coke bottlers in the West Bank are running out of cans and sugar, blocked by the prolonged closure of a Jordan border crossing, managers of two soda-bottling plants in the occupied Palestinian territory said. In the latest global supply chain snarl due to the conflict in the Middle East, a crucial trade crossing at the Allenby bridge has been largely closed to commercial traffic since early September after a Jordanian gunman shot and killed three Israeli civilians. Sugar and cans previously were transported to West Bank bottlers from Jordan via the bridge, according to Hatim Omari, manager of a plant that bottles Pepsi, 7UP and Mirinda for sale in the Palestinian territories and neighboring countries. The Pepsi facility, located in Jericho, ran out of materials for its canned soft drinks about 15 days ago, Omari said, and has not been able to get new shipments of cans or sugar for more than one month. Its sugar came from Saudi Arabia, he said. Also Read | Gaza war: Who will be next Hamas leader after Yahya Sinwar's assassination? A Coke bottler based in Ramallah has been running low on some soft drink flavors and is without its usual supplies of sugar and cans, according to Imad Hindi, general manager of National Beverage Company. "If the situation continues this way, most of the private sector players including us will reach a dead end," Hindi said in a WhatsApp message. Pepsi did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Coca-Cola declined to comment. The bottlers are separate businesses, but sometimes the U.S.-based companies hold stakes in them. GAZA, WEST BANK COSTS SOAR The bottlers are the latest businesses to be hit by supply chain disruptions due to the conflict in the Middle East over the past year. Houthi attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea have prompted some global consumer companies to reroute their merchandise from Asia to sail around Africa. "From Beirut to Iran to Gaza, it’s really hard to just run a normal business and no one is immune to it," said Paul Musgrave, an associate professor of government at Georgetown University in Qatar. "You need sugar, you need cans, you need people, you need electricity, and it’s all being disrupted." The cost of doing business in the Palestinian territories is roughly five times greater than in surrounding countries, according to Hindi, manager of the Coke bottler in the West Bank. Also Read | ‘Nijjar was a terrorist,’ Top oppn leader rips into PM Trudeau over India row At the Pepsi bottling franchise, which previously made 60 million liters of beverages annually, production is down roughly 35%, Omari said. Without cans, it continues to use plastic bottles, but he said margins on plastic-bottled drinks are lower. High unemployment in the densely populated West Bank, where he said Pepsi is a dominant cola, hurts local families' ability to buy Pepsi drinks, he said. "Our supply is weak now, and our sales are weaker." The plant now runs one shift per day for its 200 total workers, down from three previously, Omari added. Beyond supply shortages, consumer-led boycotts of U.S.-based brands like Coca-Cola and Pepsi have hurt companies' sales in Muslim-majority countries, where some consumers shun the soft drinks. PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta said on Oct. 8 in a call with investors that "geopolitical tensions" have affected the company's business in the Middle East. "I don't think that's going to change in the coming months," Laguarta said. Coca-Cola reports its financial results for the third quarter of 2024 on Oct. 23. Israel launched an assault on Hamas in Gaza last October after an unprecedented Hamas raid of Israel killed 1,200 people and resulted in another 250 being abducted. More than 41,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza over the past year. In the Gaza Strip, a $25 million Coca-Cola plant was destroyed. A partly-damaged Pepsi bottling plant ceased operations last October, a spokesperson for the plant 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.

Pepsi and Coke bottlers face can and sugar shortage in West Bank

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