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NASA has launched its largest-ever space probe, a $5 billion mission to explore Jupiter’s moon, Europa, in search of signs of life. The probe, equipped with advanced instruments, aims to study Europa’s icy surface and the potential ocean beneath, which scientists believe could harbor the necessary conditions for life. The mission will analyze the moon’s chemical composition, magnetic field, and geological activity to gather crucial data. This ambitious exploration marks a significant step in the search for extraterrestrial life within our solar system.

Europa Clipper Set To Launch On Mission To Explore Potential For Life On Jupiter’s Moon

North Korea is getting ready to blow up roads that cross the heavily militarised border with South Korea, Seoul said on Monday, amid an escalating war of words after the North accused its rival of sending drones over its capital Pyongyang.

North Korean troops were working under camouflage on the roads on its side of the border near the west and east coasts that are likely preparations to blow up the roads, possibly as early as on Monday, South Korea's military spokesperson said.

Last week, North Korea's Army said it would completely cut roads and railways connected to South Korea and fortify the areas on its side of the border, state media KCNA reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:198,&quot;w&quot;:624,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2035}" data-ved="2ahUKEwjSgJGam42JAxVQzzgGHeKVO1IQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-announces-plan-to-block-borders-with-south-korea-cut-roads-and-railways-765925" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-announces-plan-to-block-borders-with-south-korea-cut-roads-and-railways-765925&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjSgJGam42JAxVQzzgGHeKVO1IQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">North Korea announces plan to block borders with South Korea, cut roads and railways</a>

Separately, North Korea on Friday accused South Korea of sending drones to scatter a "huge number" of anti-North leaflets over Pyongyang, in what it called a political and military provocation that could lead to armed conflict.

Lee Sung-jun, a spokesman for the South's Joint Chiefs of Staff, declined on Monday to answer questions over whether the South Korean military or civilians flew the drones.

In further statements over the weekend, North Korea warned of a "horrible disaster" if South Korean drones were again found to be flying over Pyongyang. On Sunday, it said it has put eight fully armed artillery units at the border "on standby to open fire."

South Korea's military has said its refusal to answer questions on the drones is because addressing what the North has alleged would be to get drawn into a tactic by Pyongyang to fabricate excuses for provocations.

South Korea has sought to boost its anti-drone defences since 2022, Lee said, when five North Korean drones entered its airspace and flew over the capital Seoul for several hours.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:514,&quot;w&quot;:691,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2351}" data-ved="2ahUKEwjSgJGam42JAxVQzzgGHeKVO1IQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-accuses-north-korea-of-sending-troops-to-aid-russia-calls-for-more-military-support-from-partners-767153" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-accuses-north-korea-of-sending-troops-to-aid-russia-calls-for-more-military-support-from-partners-767153&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjSgJGam42JAxVQzzgGHeKVO1IQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Zelensky accuses North Korea of sending troops to aid Russia, calls for more military support from 'partners'</a>

Lee Kyoung-haing, an expert in military drone operations at Jungwon University, said civilians would have no trouble getting drones with ranges of 300 km (186 miles), the round trip from the South to Pyongyang, with light payloads such as leaflets.

On Sunday, North Korea's defence ministry said the drones, which it said were detected over Pyongyang on three days earlier this month, were the kind that required a special launcher or a runway and it was impossible a civilian group could launch them.

The two Koreas are still technically at war after their 1950-53 war ended in an armistice, not a peace treaty.

The cross-border links are remnants of periods of rapprochement between the countries including a 2018 summit between the leaders when they declared there would be no more war and a new era of peace had opened.

North Korea has reintroduced heavy weapons into the Demilitarized Zone border buffer and restored guard posts, after the two sides declared a 2018 military agreement aimed at easing tensions no longer valid.

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;

North Korea is getting ready to blow up roads that cross the heavily militarised border with South Korea, Seoul said on Monday, amid an escalating war of words after the North accused its rival of sending drones over its capital Pyongyang.

North Korea is getting ready to blow up roads that cross the heavily militarised border with South Korea, Seoul said on Monday, amid an escalating war of words after the North accused its rival of sending drones over its capital Pyongyang. North Korean troops were working under camouflage on the roads on its side of the border near the west and east coasts that are likely preparations to blow up the roads, possibly as early as on Monday, South Korea's military spokesperson said. Last week, North Korea's Army said it would completely cut roads and railways connected to South Korea and fortify the areas on its side of the border, state media KCNA reported. Also read | North Korea announces plan to block borders with South Korea, cut roads and railways Separately, North Korea on Friday accused South Korea of sending drones to scatter a "huge number" of anti-North leaflets over Pyongyang, in what it called a political and military provocation that could lead to armed conflict. Lee Sung-jun, a spokesman for the South's Joint Chiefs of Staff, declined on Monday to answer questions over whether the South Korean military or civilians flew the drones. In further statements over the weekend, North Korea warned of a "horrible disaster" if South Korean drones were again found to be flying over Pyongyang. On Sunday, it said it has put eight fully armed artillery units at the border "on standby to open fire." South Korea's military has said its refusal to answer questions on the drones is because addressing what the North has alleged would be to get drawn into a tactic by Pyongyang to fabricate excuses for provocations. South Korea has sought to boost its anti-drone defences since 2022, Lee said, when five North Korean drones entered its airspace and flew over the capital Seoul for several hours. Also read | Zelensky accuses North Korea of sending troops to aid Russia, calls for more military support from 'partners' Lee Kyoung-haing, an expert in military drone operations at Jungwon University, said civilians would have no trouble getting drones with ranges of 300 km (186 miles), the round trip from the South to Pyongyang, with light payloads such as leaflets. On Sunday, North Korea's defence ministry said the drones, which it said were detected over Pyongyang on three days earlier this month, were the kind that required a special launcher or a runway and it was impossible a civilian group could launch them. The two Koreas are still technically at war after their 1950-53 war ended in an armistice, not a peace treaty. The cross-border links are remnants of periods of rapprochement between the countries including a 2018 summit between the leaders when they declared there would be no more war and a new era of peace had opened. North Korea has reintroduced heavy weapons into the Demilitarized Zone border buffer and restored guard posts, after the two sides declared a 2018 military agreement aimed at easing tensions no longer valid. 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.

South Korea warns North Korea planning to blow up roads along heavily militarised border

Senior NCP leader Baba Siddique passed away after being fired upon by unidentified people in Mumbai on Saturday. Authorities believe that the murder was premeditated with police investigating multiple angles including possible contract killing and business rivalry.

India: New Details Emerge In Baba Siddique Killing, Murder Was Planned In Patiala Jail

India on Monday (Oct 14) withdrew its High Commissioner, Sanjay Verma, and other targeted officials from Canada amid the ongoing bitter diplomatic standoff. The decision came after Canadian Charge d'Affaires,&nbsp;Stewart Wheeler, was summoned by the Ministry of External Affairs as Ottawa linked Indian officials to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

In other news, the European Union (EU) on Monday (Oct 14) imposed sanctions against Iran over the transfer of ballistic missiles to Russia. The European Council adopted restrictive actions against seven people and seven organisations linked to the transfer deal.&nbsp;

<h2>Click on headlines to read more:</h2>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-withdraws-high-commissioner-top-diplomats-from-canada-as-ties-collapse-767401">India recalls high commissioner, top diplomats to Canada as ties collapse</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/22/394667-india-and-canada-cover-image-1080x675.jpg?imwidth=400" />

&nbsp;

India on Monday (Oct 14) withdrew its High Commissioner, Sanjay Verma, and other targeted officials from Canada amid the ongoing bitter diplomatic standoff. The decision came after Canadian Charge d'Affaires,&nbsp;Stewart Wheeler, was summoned by the Ministry of External Affairs as Ottawa linked Indian officials to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-sanctions-iran-for-supplying-ballistic-missiles-to-russia-767339">EU sanctions Iran for supplying ballistic missiles to Russia</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/01/409263-untitled-design-2024-02-01t104822574.png?imwidth=400" />

The European Union (EU) on Monday (Oct 14) imposed sanctions against Iran over the transfer of ballistic missiles to Russia. The European Council adopted restrictive actions against seven people and seven organisations linked to the transfer deal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasas-europa-clipper-successfully-lifts-off-to-hunt-life-on-jupiters-moon-767435">NASA's Europa Clipper successfully lifts off to find life on Jupiter's moon</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/14/460013-untitled-design-2024-10-14t111254656.png?imwidth=400" />

NASA on Monday (Oct 14) successfully launched its Europa Clipper mission aboard the powerful SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida for a five-and-a-half-year journey to Europa - one of&nbsp;Jupiter's many moons, to find alien life.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-prize-in-economics-awarded-to-daron-acemoglu-simon-johnson-and-james-robinson-767296">Nobel in Economics awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/14/460101-copy-of-untitled-2024-10-14t163837954.png?imwidth=400" />

The Nobel Prize in Economics 2024 has been awarded to&nbsp;Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson for demonstrating the importance of&nbsp;societal institutions for a country’s prosperity, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced on Monday (Oct 14).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-election-2024-what-key-issues-are-driving-the-polls-where-do-harris-and-trump-stand-on-them-767314">US Presidential Elections 2024: What are the key issues driving the polls?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/14/460082-new-wion-2024-10-07t162035844.png?imwidth=400" />

In just a few weeks, on November 5, the United States of America will vote to elect its next president.&nbsp;The two top candidates in this vital race for the White House are the Democratic Party nominee, the current US Vice-president Kamala Harris, and the Republican Party nominee, former president Donald Trump.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-sanctions-against-iranian-military-chiefs-after-israel-missile-attack-767408">UK government sanctions Iranian military chiefs after Israel missile attack</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/14/460140-ns-66.png?imwidth=400" />

Britain on Monday ordered sanctions against top Iranian military figures after the Islamic republic's October 1 ballistic missile attack on Israel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-kamala-harris-avoiding-times-magazine-interview-owner-posts-on-social-media-767397">Is Kamala Harris avoiding TIMES magazine interview? Owner calls her out on X</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/12/459805-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" />

TIME Magazine owner, Marc Benioff, has called out US Vice President Kamala Harris for denying multiple interview requests to the publication ahead of the November presidential election.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omar-abdullah-to-be-sworn-in-as-jammu-kashmir-chief-minister-on-october-16-767432">Omar Abdullah to be sworn in as Jammu &amp; Kashmir Chief Minister on October 16</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/12/424620-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=400" />

Omar Abdullah is set to be sworn in as the next chief minister of Jammu &amp; Kashmir on October 16. The oath-taking ceremony will take place at 11:30 AM. On Monday (Oct 14), Abdullah, representing the National Conference, shared on X a letter from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inviting him to take the oath on that date.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pcb-issues-show-cause-notice-to-fakhar-zaman-for-questioning-decision-to-drop-babar-azam-from-england-tests-767407">PCB issues show cause notice to Fakhar for questioning decision to REST Babar</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/04/458360-younis-backs-fakhar-zaman-to-replace-babar-as-pakistans-new-white-ball-leader.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Pakistan cricketer Fakhar Zaman has been issued a show cause notice by the country's cricket board for questioning the decision to drop premier batter Babar Azam from the remaining two Tests against England.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kajol-and-kriti-sanons-do-patti-trailer-release-date-plot-and-more-767345">Kajol and Kriti Sanon's Do Patti: Trailer, release date, plot and more!</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/14/460105-happy-30th-birthday-2024-10-14t165240760.png?imwidth=400" />

Kriti Sanon and Kajol's&nbsp;Do Patti&nbsp;is a film that you should mark on your calendars. On Monday, the makers unveiled the movie's trailer&nbsp;and it will definitely take your excitement to the next level.&nbsp;

India on Monday (Oct 14) withdrew its High Commissioner, Sanjay Verma, and other targeted officials from Canada amid the ongoing bitter diplomatic standoff. The decision came after Canadian Charge d'Affaires, Stewart Wheeler, was summoned by the Ministry of External Affairs as Ottawa linked Indian officials to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India on Monday (Oct 14) withdrew its High Commissioner, Sanjay Verma, and other targeted officials from Canada amid the ongoing bitter diplomatic standoff. The decision came after Canadian Charge d'Affaires, Stewart Wheeler, was summoned by the Ministry of External Affairs as Ottawa linked Indian officials to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. In other news, the European Union (EU) on Monday (Oct 14) imposed sanctions against Iran over the transfer of ballistic missiles to Russia. The European Council adopted restrictive actions against seven people and seven organisations linked to the transfer deal. Click on headlines to read more: India recalls high commissioner, top diplomats to Canada as ties collapse India on Monday (Oct 14) withdrew its High Commissioner, Sanjay Verma, and other targeted officials from Canada amid the ongoing bitter diplomatic standoff. The decision came after Canadian Charge d'Affaires, Stewart Wheeler, was summoned by the Ministry of External Affairs as Ottawa linked Indian officials to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. EU sanctions Iran for supplying ballistic missiles to Russia The European Union (EU) on Monday (Oct 14) imposed sanctions against Iran over the transfer of ballistic missiles to Russia. The European Council adopted restrictive actions against seven people and seven organisations linked to the transfer deal. NASA's Europa Clipper successfully lifts off to find life on Jupiter's moon NASA on Monday (Oct 14) successfully launched its Europa Clipper mission aboard the powerful SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida for a five-and-a-half-year journey to Europa - one of Jupiter's many moons, to find alien life. Nobel in Economics awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson The Nobel Prize in Economics 2024 has been awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson for demonstrating the importance of societal institutions for a country’s prosperity, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced on Monday (Oct 14). US Presidential Elections 2024: What are the key issues driving the polls? In just a few weeks, on November 5, the United States of America will vote to elect its next president. The two top candidates in this vital race for the White House are the Democratic Party nominee, the current US Vice-president Kamala Harris, and the Republican Party nominee, former president Donald Trump. UK government sanctions Iranian military chiefs after Israel missile attack Britain on Monday ordered sanctions against top Iranian military figures after the Islamic republic's October 1 ballistic missile attack on Israel. Is Kamala Harris avoiding TIMES magazine interview? Owner calls her out on X TIME Magazine owner, Marc Benioff, has called out US Vice President Kamala Harris for denying multiple interview requests to the publication ahead of the November presidential election. Omar Abdullah to be sworn in as Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister on October 16 Omar Abdullah is set to be sworn in as the next chief minister of Jammu & Kashmir on October 16. The oath-taking ceremony will take place at 11:30 AM. On Monday (Oct 14), Abdullah, representing the National Conference, shared on X a letter from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inviting him to take the oath on that date. PCB issues show cause notice to Fakhar for questioning decision to REST Babar Pakistan cricketer Fakhar Zaman has been issued a show cause notice by the country's cricket board for questioning the decision to drop premier batter Babar Azam from the remaining two Tests against England. Kajol and Kriti Sanon's Do Patti: Trailer, release date, plot and more! Kriti Sanon and Kajol's Do Patti is a film that you should mark on your calendars. On Monday, the makers unveiled the movie's trailer and it will definitely take your excitement to the next level.

Top 10 world news: India recalls top diplomats to Canada as ties collapse; EU sanctions Iran, and more

NASA on Monday (Oct 14) successfully launched its Europa Clipper mission aboard the powerful SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida for a five-and-a-half-year journey to Europa - one of&nbsp;Jupiter's many moons to find alien life.&nbsp;

The $5 billion probe is the largest ever designed by NASA for interplanetary exploration. It measures 30 metres wide when its immense solar panels, designed to capture the weak light that reaches Jupiter are fully extended.

Travelling 1.8 billion miles, it will orbit both the Earth and Mars to propel itself further towards Jupiter in the sling-shot effect. It is also expected to complete 49 close flybys of the Jupiter moon.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Leaving our water world, to explore another 🚀<a href="https://twitter.com/EuropaClipper?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EuropaClipper</a> launched from <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAKennedy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASAKennedy</a> at 12:06pm ET (16:06 UTC) on a <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> Falcon Heavy, beginning a 1.8-billion-mile journey to explore the mysteries of Europa, Jupiter’s ocean moon. <a href="https://t.co/IQ7uRSviMb">pic.twitter.com/IQ7uRSviMb</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1845859399178264640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Watch | Europa Clipper Will Perform 49 Close Flybys Of Europa

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&nbsp;

<h2>Why Europa?</h2>

While Europa's existence, located 628.3 million kilometres away from Earth, has been known since 1610, the first close-up images were taken by the Voyager probes in 1979, which revealed mysterious reddish lines crisscrossing its surface.

The next probe to reach Jupiter's icy moon was NASA's Galileo probe in the 1990s, which found it was highly likely that the moon was home to an ocean.

Europa’s most dominant feature, that distinguishes it from our Moon, is its vast, salty ocean contained under a thick ice crust, which sometimes escapes through vast water plumes. Its icy crust is up to 25 km thick with certain chemicals that may be the building blocks for life on the moon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-mechazilla-catches-starship-booster-in-historic-achievement-watch-767075">Also read | SpaceX 'Mechazilla' catches Starship booster mid-air in historic achievement&nbsp;</a>

"With Europa Clipper, we're not searching for life on Europa, but we're trying to see if this ocean world is habitable, and that means we're looking for the water," explained NASA official Gina DiBraccio prior to the launch.

Scientists are aiming that the instrument on NASA’s Clipper spacecraft will map the entire moon, will also collect dust particles and fly through the water plumes.&nbsp;

If life's ingredients are found, another mission would then have to make the journey to try and detect it.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA on Monday (Oct 14) successfully launched its Europa Clipper mission aboard the powerful SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida for a five-and-a-half-year journey to Europa - one of Jupiter's many moons to find alien life.

NASA on Monday (Oct 14) successfully launched its Europa Clipper mission aboard the powerful SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida for a five-and-a-half-year journey to Europa - one of Jupiter's many moons to find alien life. The $5 billion probe is the largest ever designed by NASA for interplanetary exploration. It measures 30 metres wide when its immense solar panels, designed to capture the weak light that reaches Jupiter are fully extended. Travelling 1.8 billion miles, it will orbit both the Earth and Mars to propel itself further towards Jupiter in the sling-shot effect. It is also expected to complete 49 close flybys of the Jupiter moon. Leaving our water world, to explore another 🚀@EuropaClipper launched from @NASAKennedy at 12:06pm ET (16:06 UTC) on a @SpaceX Falcon Heavy, beginning a 1.8-billion-mile journey to explore the mysteries of Europa, Jupiter’s ocean moon. pic.twitter.com/IQ7uRSviMb — NASA (@NASA) October 14, 2024 × Watch | Europa Clipper Will Perform 49 Close Flybys Of Europa × Why Europa? While Europa's existence, located 628.3 million kilometres away from Earth, has been known since 1610, the first close-up images were taken by the Voyager probes in 1979, which revealed mysterious reddish lines crisscrossing its surface. The next probe to reach Jupiter's icy moon was NASA's Galileo probe in the 1990s, which found it was highly likely that the moon was home to an ocean. Europa’s most dominant feature, that distinguishes it from our Moon, is its vast, salty ocean contained under a thick ice crust, which sometimes escapes through vast water plumes. Its icy crust is up to 25 km thick with certain chemicals that may be the building blocks for life on the moon. Also read | SpaceX 'Mechazilla' catches Starship booster mid-air in historic achievement "With Europa Clipper, we're not searching for life on Europa, but we're trying to see if this ocean world is habitable, and that means we're looking for the water," explained NASA official Gina DiBraccio prior to the launch. Scientists are aiming that the instrument on NASA’s Clipper spacecraft will map the entire moon, will also collect dust particles and fly through the water plumes. If life's ingredients are found, another mission would then have to make the journey to try and detect it. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA's Europa Clipper successfully lifts off to find alien life on Jupiter's moon

Chinese Naval Maneuvers demonstrated their operational Readiness and escalated tensions in the Taiwan. Chinese Navy released a video showing their military capabilities and increased Naval activity near Taiwan with footage featuring military drills.

South China Sea Tensions: Taiwan Reports Increased Chinese Naval Activity In Bashi Channel

China insisted on Monday it would never renounce the "use of force" to take control of Taiwan, after ending a day of military drills around the self-ruled island that Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces.

Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its own territory, deployed fighter jets, drones, warships and coast guard vessels to encircle the island in its fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years.

The United States said China's actions were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint.

China declared the drills over at around 6:00 pm (1000 GMT), about 13 hours after they had begun.

"We sincerely strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification, but we will never promise to renounce the use of force and will not leave any space for 'Taiwan independence'," Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Wu Qian said soon after.

The exercises, dubbed Joint Sword-2024B, had "fully tested the integrated joint operation capabilities of its troops", military spokesperson Captain Li Xi said in a statement.

President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist".

Lai vowed on Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security", while the defence ministry said it had dispatched "appropriate forces" in response to the drills.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-withdraws-high-commissioner-top-diplomats-from-canada-as-ties-collapse-767401">India recalls high commissioner, top diplomats to Canada as ties collapse</a>

Taiwan detected 125 Chinese aircraft, including fighter jets and drones from early morning to late afternoon, a defence ministry official said, describing it as a record for a single day. Seventeen warships were also spotted.

Outlying islands administered by Taipei had been put on "heightened alert", Taiwan's defence ministry said.

Beijing said its exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces".

The drills took place in "areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan Island", Li said earlier.

Their aim was to focus "on subjects of sea-air combat-readiness patrol, blockade on key ports and areas", Li said.

They also practised an "assault on maritime and ground targets".

The previous large-scale drills held in May, three days after Lai's inauguration, were called "Joint Sword-2024A" and lasted two days.

- China coast guard 'inspections' -

China's coast guard was also sent to conduct "inspections", with a diagram released by the coast guard showing four fleets encircling Taiwan and moving anti-clockwise around the island.

The coast guard of the eastern province of Fujian -- the closest area on the mainland to Taiwan -- also said it conducted "comprehensive law enforcement patrols" in waters near the Taipei-controlled Matsu islands.

Taiwan said four "formations" of China coast guard ships had patrolled the island and briefly entered its restricted waters, but not its prohibited waters.

China has ramped up military activity around Taiwan in recent years, sending warplanes and other military aircraft while its ships maintain a near-constant presence around the island's waters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/demi-lovatos-fiance-jutes-almost-broke-down-crying-during-adorable-proposal-767338">Demi Lovato's fiancé Jutes 'almost broke down crying' during adorable proposal</a>

"In the face of enemy threats, all officers and soldiers of the country are in full readiness," Taiwan's defence ministry said on Monday.

Lai convened a high-level security meeting over the drills, said Joseph Wu, secretary-general of the National Security Council, who described the exercises as "inconsistent with international law".

He vowed in his National Day speech on Thursday to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other".

Lai's Democratic Progressive Party has long defended the sovereignty and democracy of Taiwan, which has its own government, military and currency.

Beijing said on Monday the drills were "a legitimate and necessary operation for safeguarding state sovereignty and national unity".

- 'Feel a bit numb' -

Lieutenant Colonel Fu Zhengnan, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Military Sciences, said in a video shared by state media that the drills could "switch from training to combat at any time".

"If Taiwan separatists provoke once, the PLA's operation around the island will make their first move," Fu said, referring to China's People's Liberation Army.

Taiwan's coast guard said on Monday it had detained a Chinese man on one of its outlying islands after a possible "grey zone intrusion", referring to tactics that fall short of a direct act of war.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-prize-in-economics-awarded-to-daron-acemoglu-simon-johnson-and-james-robinson-767296">Nobel in Economics awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson</a>

In Taipei, people appeared to be largely unperturbed.

"I won't panic too much because they quite often have drills," 34-year-old engineer Benjamin Hsiao told AFP.

"It's not the first time in recent years anyway, so I feel a bit numb."

The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949.

China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then.

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.

China insisted on Monday it would never renounce the "use of force" to take control of Taiwan, after ending a day of military drills around the self-ruled island that Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces.

China insisted on Monday it would never renounce the "use of force" to take control of Taiwan, after ending a day of military drills around the self-ruled island that Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces. Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its own territory, deployed fighter jets, drones, warships and coast guard vessels to encircle the island in its fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years. The United States said China's actions were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint. China declared the drills over at around 6:00 pm (1000 GMT), about 13 hours after they had begun. "We sincerely strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification, but we will never promise to renounce the use of force and will not leave any space for 'Taiwan independence'," Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Wu Qian said soon after. The exercises, dubbed Joint Sword-2024B, had "fully tested the integrated joint operation capabilities of its troops", military spokesperson Captain Li Xi said in a statement. President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist". Lai vowed on Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security", while the defence ministry said it had dispatched "appropriate forces" in response to the drills. Also Read | India recalls high commissioner, top diplomats to Canada as ties collapse Taiwan detected 125 Chinese aircraft, including fighter jets and drones from early morning to late afternoon, a defence ministry official said, describing it as a record for a single day. Seventeen warships were also spotted. Outlying islands administered by Taipei had been put on "heightened alert", Taiwan's defence ministry said. Beijing said its exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces". The drills took place in "areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan Island", Li said earlier. Their aim was to focus "on subjects of sea-air combat-readiness patrol, blockade on key ports and areas", Li said. They also practised an "assault on maritime and ground targets". The previous large-scale drills held in May, three days after Lai's inauguration, were called "Joint Sword-2024A" and lasted two days. - China coast guard 'inspections' - China's coast guard was also sent to conduct "inspections", with a diagram released by the coast guard showing four fleets encircling Taiwan and moving anti-clockwise around the island. The coast guard of the eastern province of Fujian -- the closest area on the mainland to Taiwan -- also said it conducted "comprehensive law enforcement patrols" in waters near the Taipei-controlled Matsu islands. Taiwan said four "formations" of China coast guard ships had patrolled the island and briefly entered its restricted waters, but not its prohibited waters. China has ramped up military activity around Taiwan in recent years, sending warplanes and other military aircraft while its ships maintain a near-constant presence around the island's waters. Also Read | Demi Lovato's fiancé Jutes 'almost broke down crying' during adorable proposal "In the face of enemy threats, all officers and soldiers of the country are in full readiness," Taiwan's defence ministry said on Monday. Lai convened a high-level security meeting over the drills, said Joseph Wu, secretary-general of the National Security Council, who described the exercises as "inconsistent with international law". He vowed in his National Day speech on Thursday to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other". Lai's Democratic Progressive Party has long defended the sovereignty and democracy of Taiwan, which has its own government, military and currency. Beijing said on Monday the drills were "a legitimate and necessary operation for safeguarding state sovereignty and national unity". - 'Feel a bit numb' - Lieutenant Colonel Fu Zhengnan, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Military Sciences, said in a video shared by state media that the drills could "switch from training to combat at any time". "If Taiwan separatists provoke once, the PLA's operation around the island will make their first move," Fu said, referring to China's People's Liberation Army. Taiwan's coast guard said on Monday it had detained a Chinese man on one of its outlying islands after a possible "grey zone intrusion", referring to tactics that fall short of a direct act of war. Also Read | Nobel in Economics awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson In Taipei, people appeared to be largely unperturbed. "I won't panic too much because they quite often have drills," 34-year-old engineer Benjamin Hsiao told AFP. "It's not the first time in recent years anyway, so I feel a bit numb." The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949. China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then. 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.

China reiterates stand of not renouncing 'use of force' to take Taiwan’s control as military drills end

A row has broken out in Israel, over 130 conscript and reserve soldiers refusing to serve if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not work towards reaching a deal for the release of the hostages held captive in Gaza. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: 130 Israeli Soldiers Refuse To Serve Over Lack Of Hostage Deal

SCO Summit in Pakistan is on the 15th and 16th of October and the country is in the grip of security pangs. The series of Terror attacks targeting foreign Nationals and unrest created by the political opposition have put the government on the edge.

Pakistan SCO Summit: Pakistan PM Warns Imran Khan's PTI Ahead Of SCO Summit

TIME Magazine owner, Marc Benioff, has called out US Vice President Kamala Harris for denying multiple interview requests to the publication ahead of the November presidential election.&nbsp;

Benioff took to social media to express his frustration and said Harris' campaign had not given the interview, unlike every other presidential candidate, referring to Donald Trump and Joe Biden who dropped out of the race in July but had already given the interview.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Despite multiple requests, TIME has not been granted an interview with Kamala Harris—unlike every other Presidential candidate," Benioff wrote on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;

"We believe in transparency and publish each interview in full. Why isn’t the Vice President engaging with the public on the same level? #TrustMatters and #TransparencyMatters," he added.

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Despite multiple requests, TIME has not been granted an interview with Kamala Harris—unlike every other Presidential candidate. We believe in transparency and publish each interview in full. Why isn’t the Vice President engaging with the public on the same level? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrustMatters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrustMatters</a>…
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Billionaire Elon Musk who endorsed Trump for the election, commented on the post as well.

"Hear, hear!"&nbsp;he wrote.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-2024-barack-obama-hits-campaign-trail-for-kamala-harris-766506">Watch |&nbsp;US Elections 2024: Barack Obama Hits Campaign Trail For Kamala Harris</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Harris' media troubles&nbsp;</h2>

Ever since Harris was announced as the Democrat nominee for the election, her campaign has carefully managed her interviews and public addresses. However, in recent weeks, the VP has come under scrutiny for being unprepared when put on the spot during such media engagements.&nbsp;

Since last week, allegations have surfaced that Harris' interview for the&nbsp;programme 60 Minutes was edited creatively by CBS. Trump and several&nbsp;party politicians and commentators are now putting pressure on the channel to release the full transcript.

Notably, CBS&nbsp;&nbsp;aired a clip of the exchange between Harris and the host on the&nbsp; programme&nbsp; that went live on October 6. The question was whether the US had any influence over Israel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-kamala-harris-friendly-with-iranian-operative-and-supporter-of-hezbollah-elahi-new-report-reveals-767001">Also read |&nbsp;Is Kamala Harris friendly with Iranian operative Elahi, a supporter of Hezbollah? New report reveals...</a>

Kamala gave a rambling answer, which was later described by the Trump camp as a 'word salad'.

"Well Bill, the work that we have done has resulted in a number of movements in that region by Israel that were very much prompted by, or a result of, many things, including our advocacy for what needs to happen in the region," she said.

Oddly, that answer was different from the clip that aired on 60 minutes, where she said, "We are not going to stop pursuing what is necessary for the United States to be clear about where we stand on the need for this war to end."

The competition between Harris and Trump appears to be going down to the wire. While many had predicted Harris to pull away after the presidential debate, Trump has seemingly managed to close the gap and even gained lead in some of the swing states, according to fresh polls.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

TIME Magazine owner, Marc Benioff, has called out US Vice President Kamala Harris for denying multiple interview requests to the publication ahead of the November presidential election.

TIME Magazine owner, Marc Benioff, has called out US Vice President Kamala Harris for denying multiple interview requests to the publication ahead of the November presidential election. Benioff took to social media to express his frustration and said Harris' campaign had not given the interview, unlike every other presidential candidate, referring to Donald Trump and Joe Biden who dropped out of the race in July but had already given the interview. "Despite multiple requests, TIME has not been granted an interview with Kamala Harris—unlike every other Presidential candidate," Benioff wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "We believe in transparency and publish each interview in full. Why isn’t the Vice President engaging with the public on the same level? #TrustMatters and #TransparencyMatters," he added. Despite multiple requests, TIME has not been granted an interview with Kamala Harris—unlike every other Presidential candidate. We believe in transparency and publish each interview in full. Why isn’t the Vice President engaging with the public on the same level? #TrustMatters… — Marc Benioff (@Benioff) October 13, 2024 × Billionaire Elon Musk who endorsed Trump for the election, commented on the post as well. "Hear, hear!" he wrote. Watch | US Elections 2024: Barack Obama Hits Campaign Trail For Kamala Harris × Harris' media troubles Ever since Harris was announced as the Democrat nominee for the election, her campaign has carefully managed her interviews and public addresses. However, in recent weeks, the VP has come under scrutiny for being unprepared when put on the spot during such media engagements. Since last week, allegations have surfaced that Harris' interview for the programme 60 Minutes was edited creatively by CBS. Trump and several party politicians and commentators are now putting pressure on the channel to release the full transcript. Notably, CBS aired a clip of the exchange between Harris and the host on the programme that went live on October 6. The question was whether the US had any influence over Israel. Also read | Is Kamala Harris friendly with Iranian operative Elahi, a supporter of Hezbollah? New report reveals... Kamala gave a rambling answer, which was later described by the Trump camp as a 'word salad'. "Well Bill, the work that we have done has resulted in a number of movements in that region by Israel that were very much prompted by, or a result of, many things, including our advocacy for what needs to happen in the region," she said. Oddly, that answer was different from the clip that aired on 60 minutes, where she said, "We are not going to stop pursuing what is necessary for the United States to be clear about where we stand on the need for this war to end." The competition between Harris and Trump appears to be going down to the wire. While many had predicted Harris to pull away after the presidential debate, Trump has seemingly managed to close the gap and even gained lead in some of the swing states, according to fresh polls. (With inputs from agencies)

Is Kamala Harris avoiding TIMES magazine interview? Owner calls her out on X

Lebanon is facing a maternity crisis in the wake of Israel's war with Hezbollah. Close to 4,000 women are expected to deliver in the next 3 months this comes as pre and postnatal care plummets with the nation's health care itself on life support. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Expecting Mothers Battle Displacement, Lack Of Sanitation & Hunger

Taiwan On Alert Amid Chinese Drills: Analysts Warn Of Potential Conflict Escalation In The Region

Adding a new dimension to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, US has made a big announcement saying it will deploy its high altitude anti-missile system in Israel. US has said it will send THAAD and its US military crew to Israel. Watch to know more.

West Asia Tensions: US Forces To Engage In Combat In Israel?

A Russian court on Monday sentenced a French researcher to three years in a penal colony after finding him guilty of breaching a "foreign agent" law.

The trial of Laurent Vinatier, who works for a Swiss conflict mediation NGO, comes amid tensions between Russia and the West over the Ukraine war.

The 48-year-old was arrested in Moscow in June and charged with gathering information on Russia's military without being registered as a "foreign agent".

Judge Natalya Cheprasova at Moscow's Zamoskvoretsky district court ruled that Vinatier was guilty and sentenced him to three years in a penal colony, two years less than the maximum possible sentence, an AFP journalist in the courtroom heard.

Wearing jeans and a pale blue shirt, Vinatier looked grave but calm as the verdict was read. He was not allowed to speak to the media.

His lawyer Pavel Mamonov told journalists: "We consider the sentence harsh and will definitely appeal."

The Frenchman had acknowledged violating Russian law, saying he was unaware he should have registered as a "foreign agent".

The prosecutor had requested a sentence of three years and three months, saying Vinatier "repented" but the case involved "significant threats connected to Russia's security".

Ahead of the verdict, Vinatier gave a final speech in Russian, even quoting the national poet, Alexander Pushkin.

"I agree with the charge fully. I fully admit guilt," he told the court.

"I ask for a merciful and just sentence in the case," he added, apologising to Russia for breaking the law as well as to his NGO and family.

He read a poem by Pushkin titled "If Life Deceives You", with the lines: "The heart lives in the future... Everything is momentary, everything will pass."

Another lawyer for Vinatier, Oleg Bessonov, had asked the judge to issue him with a fine.

The "foreign agent" law has been widely used to crack down on critics of the Kremlin but not usually foreign citizens.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-sanctions-iran-for-supplying-ballistic-missiles-to-russia-767339">EU sanctions Iran for supplying ballistic missiles to Russia</a>

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French President Emmanuel Macron had demanded Vinatier's release, saying the "propaganda" against him "does not match reality".

Vinatier was charged over a requirement introduced in 2022 that people who gather information on Russia's military and arms that could harm the country's national security, must register as "foreign agents". He was not charged with espionage.

Tensions between Moscow and Paris are running high after France charged Russian-born Telegram founder Pavel Durov in August over illegal content on the popular social media platform, with the Kremlin warning against "political persecution".

France has also strongly supported Ukraine in its fight against Russia's offensive and is training thousands of Ukrainian troops.

Vinatier is an adviser with the Geneva-based Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, and is a veteran researcher on Russia and other post-Soviet countries.

The Centre "works to prevent and resolve armed conflicts around the world through mediation and discreet diplomacy", it says in a statement on its website.

- 'Love for Russia' -

According to sources interviewed by AFP, the Frenchman had been working for years on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, before Russia launched its full-scale offensive in February 2022.

In his final speech in court, Vinatier said that he first visited Russia 20 years ago and decided to work there.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-welcomes-india-joining-un-peacekeeping-joint-statement-767363">Poland welcomes India joining UN peacekeeping joint statement&nbsp;</a>

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"I fell in love with Russia. My wife is Russian, my friends are Russian. I lived a Russian life, that's who I am," he said.

Russia has arrested several Westerners and charged them with serious crimes during its Ukraine offensive, which ruptured ties with the West.

Washington has accused Moscow of arresting US citizens on baseless charges to use them as bargaining chips to secure the release of Russians convicted abroad.

On August 1, Russia freed US reporter Evan Gershkovich, former US Marine Paul Whelan and more than a dozen others -- including Russian opposition politicians -- in its biggest prisoner swap with the West since the Cold War.

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&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.&nbsp;

A Russian court on Monday sentenced a French researcher to three years in a penal colony after finding him guilty of breaching a "foreign agent" law. The trial of Laurent Vinatier, who works for a Swiss conflict mediation NGO, comes amid tensions between Russia and the West over the Ukraine war.

A Russian court on Monday sentenced a French researcher to three years in a penal colony after finding him guilty of breaching a "foreign agent" law. The trial of Laurent Vinatier, who works for a Swiss conflict mediation NGO, comes amid tensions between Russia and the West over the Ukraine war. The 48-year-old was arrested in Moscow in June and charged with gathering information on Russia's military without being registered as a "foreign agent". Judge Natalya Cheprasova at Moscow's Zamoskvoretsky district court ruled that Vinatier was guilty and sentenced him to three years in a penal colony, two years less than the maximum possible sentence, an AFP journalist in the courtroom heard. Wearing jeans and a pale blue shirt, Vinatier looked grave but calm as the verdict was read. He was not allowed to speak to the media. His lawyer Pavel Mamonov told journalists: "We consider the sentence harsh and will definitely appeal." The Frenchman had acknowledged violating Russian law, saying he was unaware he should have registered as a "foreign agent". The prosecutor had requested a sentence of three years and three months, saying Vinatier "repented" but the case involved "significant threats connected to Russia's security". Ahead of the verdict, Vinatier gave a final speech in Russian, even quoting the national poet, Alexander Pushkin. "I agree with the charge fully. I fully admit guilt," he told the court. "I ask for a merciful and just sentence in the case," he added, apologising to Russia for breaking the law as well as to his NGO and family. He read a poem by Pushkin titled "If Life Deceives You", with the lines: "The heart lives in the future... Everything is momentary, everything will pass." Another lawyer for Vinatier, Oleg Bessonov, had asked the judge to issue him with a fine. The "foreign agent" law has been widely used to crack down on critics of the Kremlin but not usually foreign citizens. Also Read | EU sanctions Iran for supplying ballistic missiles to Russia French President Emmanuel Macron had demanded Vinatier's release, saying the "propaganda" against him "does not match reality". Vinatier was charged over a requirement introduced in 2022 that people who gather information on Russia's military and arms that could harm the country's national security, must register as "foreign agents". He was not charged with espionage. Tensions between Moscow and Paris are running high after France charged Russian-born Telegram founder Pavel Durov in August over illegal content on the popular social media platform, with the Kremlin warning against "political persecution". France has also strongly supported Ukraine in its fight against Russia's offensive and is training thousands of Ukrainian troops. Vinatier is an adviser with the Geneva-based Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, and is a veteran researcher on Russia and other post-Soviet countries. The Centre "works to prevent and resolve armed conflicts around the world through mediation and discreet diplomacy", it says in a statement on its website. - 'Love for Russia' - According to sources interviewed by AFP, the Frenchman had been working for years on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, before Russia launched its full-scale offensive in February 2022. In his final speech in court, Vinatier said that he first visited Russia 20 years ago and decided to work there. Also Read | Poland welcomes India joining UN peacekeeping joint statement "I fell in love with Russia. My wife is Russian, my friends are Russian. I lived a Russian life, that's who I am," he said. Russia has arrested several Westerners and charged them with serious crimes during its Ukraine offensive, which ruptured ties with the West. Washington has accused Moscow of arresting US citizens on baseless charges to use them as bargaining chips to secure the release of Russians convicted abroad. On August 1, Russia freed US reporter Evan Gershkovich, former US Marine Paul Whelan and more than a dozen others -- including Russian opposition politicians -- in its biggest prisoner swap with the West since the Cold War. 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.

Russian court sentences French researcher to 3 years' jail for breaching 'foreign agent' law

The Canadian government has ordered six Indian diplomats to leave the country in notices served early Monday (Oct 14), according to a report in The Washington Post.&nbsp;India's High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Verma and other top diplomatic officials in Toronto were among those told to leave.

The report comes after the Indian government decided to withdraw Verma and other&nbsp;targeted officials from Canada as they were linked to the killing of Khalistani terrorist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar&nbsp;by the Justin Trudeau government.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

(More to follow)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Canadian government has ordered six Indian diplomats to leave the country in notices served early Monday (Oct 14), according to a report in The Washington Post.

The Canadian government has ordered six Indian diplomats to leave the country in notices served early Monday (Oct 14), according to a report in The Washington Post. India's High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Verma and other top diplomatic officials in Toronto were among those told to leave. The report comes after the Indian government decided to withdraw Verma and other targeted officials from Canada as they were linked to the killing of Khalistani terrorist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar by the Justin Trudeau government. Breaking: Canada asks 6 Indian Diplomats to leave the country says Washington Post — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) October 14, 2024 × (More to follow)

After New Delhi withdraws its envoy, Canada asks 6 Indian diplomats to leave country

Senior NCP leader Baba Siddique passed away after being fired upon by unidentified people in Mumbai on Saturday. Latest reports suggest that these killers were paid in advance and were delivered fire arms two days before the shooting. Watch to know more.

Baba Siddique Death: New Details Emerge In Baba Siddique Killing

Babar Azam has been dropped from Pakistan's squad for the second and third test against England. WION's Bhairavi Singh gets you the details.

Babar Azam Dropped From Pakistan Test Squad

Thousands of protesters are flooding the streets in Spain and France urgently calling for government action to tackle the high living costs amid skyrocketing prizes of Basic Essentials. Watch in for more details!

Protests Over Rising Living Costs: Massive Protests Erupt In Spain And France

South China sea tensions grow, as China has encircled Taiwan with fighter jets and warships as it launched large scale military drills around the island. Beijing said drills were aimed at sending a stern warning separatist forces in Taiwan. Watch to know more.

South China Sea Tensions: China Launches Military Drills Near Taiwan

India announced its decision to withdraw its high commissioner and several "targeted" diplomats and officials from Canada in response to Ottawa's efforts to link them to an investigation into the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

BREAKING: India Downgrades Diplomatic Ties With Canada, Recalls High Commissioner From Canada

The United States announced on Sunday (Oct) 13 that it will deploy an advanced anti-missile system to Israel, along with US troops to operate it, to strengthen the country’s air defences following Iranian attacks earlier this month.

The United States announced on Sunday (Oct) 13 that it will deploy an advanced anti-missile system to Israel, along with US troops to operate it, to strengthen the country’s air defences following Iranian attacks earlier this month. President Joe Biden asked Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin to authorise "the deployment of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and associated crew of US military personnel" to Israel. "The THAAD Battery will augment Israel's integrated air defence system. This action underscores the United States' ironclad commitment to the defence of Israel, and to defend Americans in Israel, from any further ballistic missile attacks by Iran," said Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder in a statement on Sunday. Also read: Pentagon puzzled after mystery drones hover over US military base for 17 days “It is part of the broader adjustments the US military has made in recent months, to support the defence of Israel and protect Americans from attacks by Iran and Iranian-aligned militias,” Ryder added. 'Only US system designed to intercept targets outside and inside the atmosphere' The THAAD system, produced by Lockheed Martin, "is the only US system designed to intercept targets outside and inside the atmosphere." This is not the first time the US has deployed THAAD to Israel, having previously done so in 2019 during joint exercises and following the Hamas-led attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, according to the statement. Also read: Israel vs UN: Netanyahu tells Guterres to withdraw south Lebanon peacekeepers On October 1, Iran launched approximately 180 missiles at Israel. This attack came after Israel’s assassination of the leader of Iran-backed group Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, on September 27. This attack was larger than Iran’s April response when it launched 110 ballistic missiles and 30 cruise missiles at Israel after an Israeli strike on the Iranian embassy in Damascus, Syria. Iran warns US against sending troops to Israel Earlier on Sunday, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that by sending US troops to Israel to operate missile systems, the US was endangering its military personnel. "While we have made tremendous efforts in recent days to contain an all-out war in our region, I say it clearly that we have no red lines in defending our people and interests," Araghchi posted on X. (With inputs from agencies)

US to deploy anti-missile system THAAD in Israel to ‘defend Americans’ against future Iranian attacks

There was a third assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump's life. A man carrying illegal shotguns and a loaded handgun was arrested near the Trump rally in Coachella California. Watch to know more.

US News: Another Assassination Attempt On Trump ?

Britain on Monday ordered sanctions against top Iranian military figures after the Islamic republic's October 1 ballistic missile attack on Israel.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Iran had ignored repeated warnings that its "dangerous actions" -- and those of its proxies -- were fuelling conflict in the Middle East.

Among the individuals subject to a travel ban and asset freeze are the commander-in-chief of the Iranian army, &nbsp;Abdolrahim Mousavi, and the head of the air force Hamid Vahedi.

Iran said it launched the missile attack in response to Israel's killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon, and the death of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in a Tehran bombing widely blamed on Israel.

It was Iran's second direct attack on Israel after a missile and drone attack in April in response to an air strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus that it blamed on Israel.

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Lammy, in Luxembourg at a meeting with EU foreign ministers, said in a statement that the sanctions were a way to hold Iran to account and expose those behind the attacks.&nbsp;

"Alongside allies and partners, we will continue to take necessary measures to challenge Iran's unacceptable threats and press for de-escalation across the region," he added.

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The British list also features the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps intelligence chief Mohammad Kazemi. Two companies, including Iran's space agency, whose technology can be used in cruise and ballistic missiles were hit with an assets freeze.

Last week, the US government imposed restrictions on dozens of companies in Iran's oil and petrochemicals sectors, to cut off funding of what it said was the country's "destabilising activity".

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&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

Britain on Monday ordered sanctions against top Iranian military figures after the Islamic republic's October 1 ballistic missile attack on Israel. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Iran had ignored repeated warnings that its "dangerous actions" -- and those of its proxies -- were fuelling conflict in the Middle East.

Britain on Monday ordered sanctions against top Iranian military figures after the Islamic republic's October 1 ballistic missile attack on Israel. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Iran had ignored repeated warnings that its "dangerous actions" -- and those of its proxies -- were fuelling conflict in the Middle East. Among the individuals subject to a travel ban and asset freeze are the commander-in-chief of the Iranian army, Abdolrahim Mousavi, and the head of the air force Hamid Vahedi. Iran said it launched the missile attack in response to Israel's killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon, and the death of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in a Tehran bombing widely blamed on Israel. It was Iran's second direct attack on Israel after a missile and drone attack in April in response to an air strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus that it blamed on Israel. Read More | World Bank reports that 26 poorest countries are in worst financial shape since 2006 Lammy, in Luxembourg at a meeting with EU foreign ministers, said in a statement that the sanctions were a way to hold Iran to account and expose those behind the attacks. "Alongside allies and partners, we will continue to take necessary measures to challenge Iran's unacceptable threats and press for de-escalation across the region," he added. Read More | Afghan Taliban pledge to enforce media ban on images of all living things The British list also features the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps intelligence chief Mohammad Kazemi. Two companies, including Iran's space agency, whose technology can be used in cruise and ballistic missiles were hit with an assets freeze. Last week, the US government imposed restrictions on dozens of companies in Iran's oil and petrochemicals sectors, to cut off funding of what it said was the country's "destabilising activity". 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.

UK government sanctions Iranian military chiefs after Israel missile attack

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