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Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had a gun by his side when he addressed a public sermon after Friday prayers on October 4, in the wake of Israel's killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon.

The sermon, his first in five years, also came days after Iran conducted a series of missile strikes on Israel in response to Nasrallah's killing. Addressing thousands of worshippers gathered at a Tehran mosque, Khamenei said Israel will not last long, and described the Iranian strikes on Israel as a "public service".

Watch:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> Leader Ayat. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Khamenei?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Khamenei</a>'s speech started in the Friday prayers of Tehran, along with the commemoration ceremony for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hezbollah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hezbollah</a> chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. <a href="https://t.co/SHGtbzH8ZI">pic.twitter.com/SHGtbzH8ZI</a>
— Iran's Today (@Iran) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iran/status/1842123179281506388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The sermon took place just a few days ahead of the anniversary of the October 7 terror attacks on Israel that sparked off the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, and a wider regional conflict.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chief-of-iranian-intel-unit-turned-out-to-be-mossad-agent-ex-iran-prez-reveals-763598">Also read: Chief of Iranian intel unit turned out to be Mossad agent, ex-Iran president reveals</a>

Khamenei last led a Friday prayer in January 2020 after Iran Guards chief Qassem Soleimani was killed in a US strike in Iraq.

Watch: Iran-Israel War: Will Israel Strike Iran's Nuclear Facilities?

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Praising Hezbollah as a "blessed tree" and hailing Hamas, he doubled down on Iran's support for resistance against Israel, which he described as a "tool" of American interests in the region.&nbsp;

About Nasrallah, Khamenei said his "martyrdom" would only strengthen resistance efforts.&nbsp;

<h2>Not the first time Iran leader sported a gun. Reason is...</h2>

Khamenei's appearance with the gun, while curious, is not a first. In June 2019, he sported a rifle while giving a sermon to mark the end of the Muslim Holy month of Ramadan.

Khamanei had reasons to be worried about his personal security as he always had threats to his life from countries including Israel and the United States. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-in-first-public-address-in-5-years-calls-missile-attack-on-israel-legal-and-legitimate-764453">Also read: Khamenei, in first public address in 5 years, calls missile attack on Israel 'legal and legitimate'</a>

It was during one such sermon in 1985 that he faced an assassination attempt. A suicide bomber blew himself up near him, but the Iranian leader survived. Reportedly, he continued with the sermon after three minutes of gap.

That was not the first attempt on his life either. He was targeted several times in the past. The most significant assassination attempt was in 1981 when he was seriously injured when a bomb hidden in a tape recorder blew up during a Friday prayer sermon.&nbsp;

Khamenei was partially paralysed after that attack, and permanently lost use of his right arm.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had a gun by his side when he addressed a public sermon after Friday prayers on October 4, in the wake of Israel's killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had a gun by his side when he addressed a public sermon after Friday prayers on October 4, in the wake of Israel's killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon. The sermon, his first in five years, also came days after Iran conducted a series of missile strikes on Israel in response to Nasrallah's killing. Addressing thousands of worshippers gathered at a Tehran mosque, Khamenei said Israel will not last long, and described the Iranian strikes on Israel as a "public service". Watch: #Iran Leader Ayat. #Khamenei's speech started in the Friday prayers of Tehran, along with the commemoration ceremony for the #Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. pic.twitter.com/SHGtbzH8ZI — Iran's Today (@Iran) October 4, 2024 × The sermon took place just a few days ahead of the anniversary of the October 7 terror attacks on Israel that sparked off the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, and a wider regional conflict. Also read: Chief of Iranian intel unit turned out to be Mossad agent, ex-Iran president reveals Khamenei last led a Friday prayer in January 2020 after Iran Guards chief Qassem Soleimani was killed in a US strike in Iraq. Watch: Iran-Israel War: Will Israel Strike Iran's Nuclear Facilities? × Praising Hezbollah as a "blessed tree" and hailing Hamas, he doubled down on Iran's support for resistance against Israel, which he described as a "tool" of American interests in the region. About Nasrallah, Khamenei said his "martyrdom" would only strengthen resistance efforts. Not the first time Iran leader sported a gun. Reason is... Khamenei's appearance with the gun, while curious, is not a first. In June 2019, he sported a rifle while giving a sermon to mark the end of the Muslim Holy month of Ramadan. Khamanei had reasons to be worried about his personal security as he always had threats to his life from countries including Israel and the United States. Also read: Khamenei, in first public address in 5 years, calls missile attack on Israel 'legal and legitimate' It was during one such sermon in 1985 that he faced an assassination attempt. A suicide bomber blew himself up near him, but the Iranian leader survived. Reportedly, he continued with the sermon after three minutes of gap. That was not the first attempt on his life either. He was targeted several times in the past. The most significant assassination attempt was in 1981 when he was seriously injured when a bomb hidden in a tape recorder blew up during a Friday prayer sermon. Khamenei was partially paralysed after that attack, and permanently lost use of his right arm. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Khamenei had gun during first public sermon in 5 years slamming Israel. Not for first time

US&nbsp;dockworkers&nbsp;will return to work after a three-day strike at East and Gulf Coast ports after the union and port operators reached a tentative deal on pay and extended the current contract to January 15, both sides said Thursday.

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) had launched a work stoppage early Tuesday after negotiations with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents shipping companies and terminal operators, hit an impasse.

The strike -- which involved 45,000 workers, according to the ILA -- paralyzed 36 ports from Maine to Texas, which handle an array of goods from food to electronics.&nbsp;

But Thursday evening, the two sides announced in a joint statement that they had "reached a tentative agreement on wages and have agreed to extend the Master Contract until January 15, 2025 to return to the bargaining table to negotiate all other outstanding issues.

"Effective immediately, all current job actions will cease and all work covered by the Master Contract will resume."

The statement did not offer terms of the deal, but The Wall Street Journal, citing sources close to the matter, said USMX had proposed a 62 percent salary increase over six years, which allowed the deal to be reached.

The strike was the first walkout by the union since 1977 after negotiations stalled over union demands for significant wage increases and protection against automation-related job loss.

US President Joe Biden -- who had been under pressure to intervene in negotiations to keep ports open, but had demurred citing respect for collective bargaining rights -- celebrated the suspension of the strike late Thursday.

"I want to thank the union workers, the carriers, and the port operators for acting patriotically to reopen our ports and ensure the availability of critical supplies for Hurricane Helene recovery and rebuilding," Biden said in a statement.

"Collective bargaining works, and it is critical to building a stronger economy from the middle out and the bottom up."

Outside the White House, Biden added: "They've got the next 90 days, they are going to settle everything."

Republican former president Donald Trump, who is seeking to take back the Oval Office, had blamed Biden for the crisis, saying Tuesday in Milwaukee: "He should have worked out a deal."

<h2>Crisis averted</h2>

Analysts had cautioned that a lengthy strike could pose a major headwind to the US economy as the presidential election grows near on November 5, leading to shortages of some items and lifting costs at a time when inflation has been moderating.

Shipping companies forced to re-route their vessels had planned to apply surcharges for each container: $1,000 each for German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd, and between $800 and $1500 for France's CMA CGM, according to German logistics platform Container xChange.&nbsp;

Analysts at TD Cowen said Danish giant Maersk was ready to charge up to $3,780 extra per container to cover its strike-related costs.

Oxford Economics had estimated that the strike would dent US gross domestic product by $4.5 billion to $7.5 billion per week, with the overall impact depending on how long the strike lasts.

But Capital Economics said fears about the economic impact of the strike were "overdone," in part because recent shocks to the supply chain have made businesses more aware of the need to bake in precautionary measures.

The strike arrived at a politically precarious time, just one month before the election, but the tentative agreement relieves the political pressure.

National Retail Federation chief Matthew Shay called the tentative deal and the decision to end the current strike "good news for the nation's economy."

"It is critically important that the International Longshoremen's Association and United States Maritime Alliance work diligently and in good faith to reach a fair, final agreement before the extension expires," Shay said in a statement.

"The sooner they reach a deal, the better for all American families."

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;

US dockworkers will return to work after a three-day strike at East and Gulf Coast ports after the union and port operators reached a tentative deal on pay and extended the current contract to January 15, both sides said Thursday.

US dockworkers will return to work after a three-day strike at East and Gulf Coast ports after the union and port operators reached a tentative deal on pay and extended the current contract to January 15, both sides said Thursday. The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) had launched a work stoppage early Tuesday after negotiations with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents shipping companies and terminal operators, hit an impasse. The strike -- which involved 45,000 workers, according to the ILA -- paralyzed 36 ports from Maine to Texas, which handle an array of goods from food to electronics. But Thursday evening, the two sides announced in a joint statement that they had "reached a tentative agreement on wages and have agreed to extend the Master Contract until January 15, 2025 to return to the bargaining table to negotiate all other outstanding issues. "Effective immediately, all current job actions will cease and all work covered by the Master Contract will resume." The statement did not offer terms of the deal, but The Wall Street Journal, citing sources close to the matter, said USMX had proposed a 62 percent salary increase over six years, which allowed the deal to be reached. The strike was the first walkout by the union since 1977 after negotiations stalled over union demands for significant wage increases and protection against automation-related job loss. US President Joe Biden -- who had been under pressure to intervene in negotiations to keep ports open, but had demurred citing respect for collective bargaining rights -- celebrated the suspension of the strike late Thursday. "I want to thank the union workers, the carriers, and the port operators for acting patriotically to reopen our ports and ensure the availability of critical supplies for Hurricane Helene recovery and rebuilding," Biden said in a statement. "Collective bargaining works, and it is critical to building a stronger economy from the middle out and the bottom up." Outside the White House, Biden added: "They've got the next 90 days, they are going to settle everything." Republican former president Donald Trump, who is seeking to take back the Oval Office, had blamed Biden for the crisis, saying Tuesday in Milwaukee: "He should have worked out a deal." Crisis averted Analysts had cautioned that a lengthy strike could pose a major headwind to the US economy as the presidential election grows near on November 5, leading to shortages of some items and lifting costs at a time when inflation has been moderating. Shipping companies forced to re-route their vessels had planned to apply surcharges for each container: $1,000 each for German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd, and between $800 and $1500 for France's CMA CGM, according to German logistics platform Container xChange. Analysts at TD Cowen said Danish giant Maersk was ready to charge up to $3,780 extra per container to cover its strike-related costs. Oxford Economics had estimated that the strike would dent US gross domestic product by $4.5 billion to $7.5 billion per week, with the overall impact depending on how long the strike lasts. But Capital Economics said fears about the economic impact of the strike were "overdone," in part because recent shocks to the supply chain have made businesses more aware of the need to bake in precautionary measures. The strike arrived at a politically precarious time, just one month before the election, but the tentative agreement relieves the political pressure. National Retail Federation chief Matthew Shay called the tentative deal and the decision to end the current strike "good news for the nation's economy." "It is critically important that the International Longshoremen's Association and United States Maritime Alliance work diligently and in good faith to reach a fair, final agreement before the extension expires," Shay said in a statement. "The sooner they reach a deal, the better for all American families." 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.

Dockworkers in US to return to work after union, operators reach tentative deal

Amid rising controversy over ticket scalping and price gouging for Coldplay's upcoming concert in India, Mumbai police have registered a FIR on charges of fraud and cheating by impersonation.

Coldplay Concert Hit By Fraud Investigation, Tickets From Black Market Under Scanner

Heavy rains that flooded towns and touched off landslides left at least 14 people dead in Bosnia on Friday, authorities said.

Jablanica, some 70 kilometres (43 miles) southwest of Sarajevo, appeared to bear the brunt of the 24 hours of downpours, which cut it off from the outside world.

Photos on local media from the Jablanica region showed mudslides coming up to roofs of houses and a mosque with only its minaret sticking out.

"For now, the bodies of 14 people have been found" in the region of Jablanica, spokesman Darko Jukan told AFP, adding that the toll was likely to rise.

Jablanica "cannot be entered or exited at the moment", a mountain rescue service said of the town of around 4,000 people.

A number of people from the area were reported missing, the authorities said while some injured were evacuated with a helicopter from the European Union peacekeeping force (EUFOR).

At mid-Friday the situation was the most critical in the village of Donja Jablanica that remained cut off, the spokesman said.

Several roads and bridges in the region collapsed, he said.

In Kiseljak, some 20 kilometres west of Sarajevo, houses, gardens and cars were underwater, an AFP journalist reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-mauritius-chagos-archipelago-agreement-india-played-quiet-but-crucial-role-in-deal-says-report-764357">UK-Mauritius Chagos archipelago agreement: India played quiet but crucial role in deal, says report</a>

A large part of Bosnia's population is at risk due to heavy floods and landslides, the federal civil protection administration said in a statement.

Firefighters, police and utility companies were working in the affected areas, but more help is needed to mitigate the consequences of storms and rainfall, the federal civil protection administration warned.

Prime Minister of Bosnia's Muslim-Croat half Nermin Niksic wrote on social media platform X that the situation was "very serious as many citizens are still trapped in their houses.

In neighbouring Croatia, weather authorities issued a warning for the northern Adriatic coast, Istria peninsula and central part of the country due to the heavy rains.

In a statement, it said that urban flooding and interruption of traffic, communications, electricity and water supply were expected.

Scientists warn that climate change worsens the impact of extreme weather events.

Torrential rains and strong winds have led to widespread flooding in central and eastern Europe last month, killing at least 24 people and devastating towns and villages.

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.

Heavy rains that flooded towns and touched off landslides left at least 14 people dead in Bosnia on Friday, authorities said. Jablanica, some 70 kilometres (43 miles) southwest of Sarajevo, appeared to bear the brunt of the 24 hours of downpours, which cut it off from the outside world.

Heavy rains that flooded towns and touched off landslides left at least 14 people dead in Bosnia on Friday, authorities said. Jablanica, some 70 kilometres (43 miles) southwest of Sarajevo, appeared to bear the brunt of the 24 hours of downpours, which cut it off from the outside world. Photos on local media from the Jablanica region showed mudslides coming up to roofs of houses and a mosque with only its minaret sticking out. "For now, the bodies of 14 people have been found" in the region of Jablanica, spokesman Darko Jukan told AFP, adding that the toll was likely to rise. Jablanica "cannot be entered or exited at the moment", a mountain rescue service said of the town of around 4,000 people. A number of people from the area were reported missing, the authorities said while some injured were evacuated with a helicopter from the European Union peacekeeping force (EUFOR). At mid-Friday the situation was the most critical in the village of Donja Jablanica that remained cut off, the spokesman said. Several roads and bridges in the region collapsed, he said. In Kiseljak, some 20 kilometres west of Sarajevo, houses, gardens and cars were underwater, an AFP journalist reported. Also read: UK-Mauritius Chagos archipelago agreement: India played quiet but crucial role in deal, says report A large part of Bosnia's population is at risk due to heavy floods and landslides, the federal civil protection administration said in a statement. Firefighters, police and utility companies were working in the affected areas, but more help is needed to mitigate the consequences of storms and rainfall, the federal civil protection administration warned. Prime Minister of Bosnia's Muslim-Croat half Nermin Niksic wrote on social media platform X that the situation was "very serious as many citizens are still trapped in their houses. In neighbouring Croatia, weather authorities issued a warning for the northern Adriatic coast, Istria peninsula and central part of the country due to the heavy rains. In a statement, it said that urban flooding and interruption of traffic, communications, electricity and water supply were expected. Scientists warn that climate change worsens the impact of extreme weather events. Torrential rains and strong winds have led to widespread flooding in central and eastern Europe last month, killing at least 24 people and devastating towns and villages. 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.

At least 14 dead after heavy rains trigger floods in Bosnia

The Israeli government on Thursday (Oct 3) took down a map of India, incorrectly depicting a part of the Indian Union Territory of&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir in Pakistan on the country's official website following a massive criticism on social media.&nbsp;

Reuven Azar, ambassador of Israel to India, said the map was taken down and called it the website editor's mistake.&nbsp;

It was taken down after an Indian influencer raised the issue on the social media platform X, stating, "India stands with Israel. But does Israel stand with India? Note the map of India (pay attention to Jammu &amp; Kashmir) on Israel’s official website,” wrote Abhijit Chavda on X.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-israel-conflict-what-it-means-for-indias-stakes-in-the-region-711069">Also read:&nbsp;Iran-Israel conflict: What it means for India's stakes in the region&nbsp;</a>

Azar responded to the post, saying, "Website editor's mistake. Thank you for noticing. Was taken down."

Later, Chavda thanked the Israeli government for the prompt response and for removing the map from their website.&nbsp;

New Delhi&nbsp;has always maintained that the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel's New Ambassador to India Reuven Azar in Exclusive Conversation With WION

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As the West Asia crisis worsens, India has expressed concern over the loss of civilian lives in the October 7 Israel-Hamas conflict. Meanwhile, New Delhi&nbsp;has also emphasised the need for peace and humanitarian aid for Palestinians. India is also making a case for Israel's right to respond to the violence committed by militant groups&nbsp;in its neighbouring countries.&nbsp;
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The tensions have escalated after Israel killed leaders of militant groups Hezbollah and Hamas. Following this, Iran retaliated and launched a barrage of nearly 180 ballistic missiles towards Israel on Tuesday, prompting the Israeli military to retaliate.&nbsp;

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)&nbsp;

The Israeli government on Thursday (Oct 3) took down a map of India, incorrectly depicting a part of the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in Pakistan on the country's official website following a massive criticism on social media.

The Israeli government on Thursday (Oct 3) took down a map of India, incorrectly depicting a part of the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in Pakistan on the country's official website following a massive criticism on social media. Reuven Azar, ambassador of Israel to India, said the map was taken down and called it the website editor's mistake. It was taken down after an Indian influencer raised the issue on the social media platform X, stating, "India stands with Israel. But does Israel stand with India? Note the map of India (pay attention to Jammu & Kashmir) on Israel’s official website,” wrote Abhijit Chavda on X. Also read: Iran-Israel conflict: What it means for India's stakes in the region Azar responded to the post, saying, "Website editor's mistake. Thank you for noticing. Was taken down." Later, Chavda thanked the Israeli government for the prompt response and for removing the map from their website. New Delhi has always maintained that the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. Watch | Israel's New Ambassador to India Reuven Azar in Exclusive Conversation With WION × As the West Asia crisis worsens, India has expressed concern over the loss of civilian lives in the October 7 Israel-Hamas conflict. Meanwhile, New Delhi has also emphasised the need for peace and humanitarian aid for Palestinians. India is also making a case for Israel's right to respond to the violence committed by militant groups in its neighbouring countries. The tensions have escalated after Israel killed leaders of militant groups Hezbollah and Hamas. Following this, Iran retaliated and launched a barrage of nearly 180 ballistic missiles towards Israel on Tuesday, prompting the Israeli military to retaliate. 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)

Israel takes down Indian map from govt website for wrongly depicting J&K after facing online backlash

UK lawmakers are to consider a proposal to legalise assisted dying, a member of the ruling Labour party said Thursday, as calls mount to change the law.

Parliamentarians will discuss the emotive issue after MP Kim Leadbeater introduces a bill on October 16 to give terminally ill people "choice" at the end of life.

Leadbeater is the sister of Labour MP Jo Cox who was murdered by a far-right extremist during the 2016 EU referendum campaign.

If successful, the legislation will only affect England and Wales.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/historic-uk-transfers-chagos-islands-sovereignty-to-mauritius-764204">'Historic': UK transfers sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius</a>

Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged to make parliamentary time for the subject as part of his Labour Party's election campaign in July.

On Thursday, his most senior civil service adviser, Cabinet Secretary Simon Case, said it would be a free vote as it was an "issue of conscience".

"That means that ministers can vote, or not, however they wish," he wrote in a letter. "The Government will therefore remain neutral on the passage of the Bill and on the matter of assisted dying."&nbsp;

Euthanasia is illegal in Britain but is already in place to varying degrees in some European countries.

Previous attempts to legalise it have been voted down but public opinion is shifting and attempts to change the law are under way in Scotland, which has a separate legal system and powers to set its own health policy.

"Parliament should now be able to consider a change in the law that would offer reassurance and relief – and most importantly, dignity and choice – to people in the last months of their lives," she said.

An assisted dying bill was last debated –&nbsp;and defeated –&nbsp;in the House of Commons in 2015.

But since then surveys have shown an increase in support for helping terminally ill people end their lives.

The debate has been given impetus recently by a campaign led by high-profile TV broadcaster Esther Rantzen, who has terminal cancer.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-no-strikes-on-iran-today-but-targeting-irans-oil-facilities-in-future-remains-an-option-764270">Biden: No strikes on Iran ‘today,’ but 'discussing' attack on oil facilities</a>

Private members' bills are introduced by individual lawmakers after a ballot and are not part of the government's formal legislative programme.

Successful MPs can pick a bill of their choice, which is then debated and scrutinised before a formal vote.

A bill to make assisted dying legal in Scotland was introduced in the devolved Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh earlier this year.

The Isle of Man and Jersey –&nbsp;self-governing British Crown Dependencies which are not part of the UK&nbsp;–&nbsp;are also moving towards passing their own laws to give terminally ill people the right to die.

Belgium, along with the Netherlands, in 2002 became the first EU countries to allow euthanasia.

Spain in 2021 authorised euthanasia and medically assisted suicide for people with a serious and incurable illness, followed by Portugal in 2023.

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 lawmakers are to consider a proposal to legalise assisted dying, a member of the ruling Labour party said Thursday, as calls mount to change the law. Parliamentarians will discuss the emotive issue after MP Kim Leadbeater introduces a bill on October 16 to give terminally ill people "choice" at the end of life.

UK lawmakers are to consider a proposal to legalise assisted dying, a member of the ruling Labour party said Thursday, as calls mount to change the law. Parliamentarians will discuss the emotive issue after MP Kim Leadbeater introduces a bill on October 16 to give terminally ill people "choice" at the end of life. Leadbeater is the sister of Labour MP Jo Cox who was murdered by a far-right extremist during the 2016 EU referendum campaign. If successful, the legislation will only affect England and Wales. Also read: 'Historic': UK transfers sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged to make parliamentary time for the subject as part of his Labour Party's election campaign in July. On Thursday, his most senior civil service adviser, Cabinet Secretary Simon Case, said it would be a free vote as it was an "issue of conscience". "That means that ministers can vote, or not, however they wish," he wrote in a letter. "The Government will therefore remain neutral on the passage of the Bill and on the matter of assisted dying." Euthanasia is illegal in Britain but is already in place to varying degrees in some European countries. Previous attempts to legalise it have been voted down but public opinion is shifting and attempts to change the law are under way in Scotland, which has a separate legal system and powers to set its own health policy. "Parliament should now be able to consider a change in the law that would offer reassurance and relief – and most importantly, dignity and choice – to people in the last months of their lives," she said. An assisted dying bill was last debated – and defeated – in the House of Commons in 2015. But since then surveys have shown an increase in support for helping terminally ill people end their lives. The debate has been given impetus recently by a campaign led by high-profile TV broadcaster Esther Rantzen, who has terminal cancer. Also read: Biden: No strikes on Iran ‘today,’ but 'discussing' attack on oil facilities Private members' bills are introduced by individual lawmakers after a ballot and are not part of the government's formal legislative programme. Successful MPs can pick a bill of their choice, which is then debated and scrutinised before a formal vote. A bill to make assisted dying legal in Scotland was introduced in the devolved Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh earlier this year. The Isle of Man and Jersey – self-governing British Crown Dependencies which are not part of the UK – are also moving towards passing their own laws to give terminally ill people the right to die. Belgium, along with the Netherlands, in 2002 became the first EU countries to allow euthanasia. Spain in 2021 authorised euthanasia and medically assisted suicide for people with a serious and incurable illness, followed by Portugal in 2023. 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 parliament set to debate assisted dying bill as public support grows

In a historic decision, the United Kingdom handed over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius after over two centuries of control, a move that would allow hundreds of displaced islanders to return to their homeland.

India played a quiet yet key role in facilitating the agreement between the UK and Mauritius, having always supported the claim of Mauritius to the island, which includes Diego Garcia where the United States operates a military base under lease from Britain.

India welcomed the deal, calling it a part of decolonisation even as the UK said it would continue to have the right to use the base in Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago. New Delhi said it was a positive outcome for all the parties, and a move that will enhance long-term security in the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;

After the agreement was announced, Britain and Mauritius issued a joint statement, expressing their commitment to address "historical injustices" and working for the welfare of the Chagossian people.&nbsp;

"This government inherited a situation where the long-term, secure operation of the Diego Garcia military base was under threat, with contested sovereignty and ongoing legal challenges,"&nbsp;said UK Foreign Minister David Lammy in a statement. "The agreement secures this vital military base for the future. It will strengthen our role in safeguarding global security, shut down any possibility of the Indian Ocean being used as a dangerous illegal migration route to the UK, as well as guaranteeing our long-term relationship with Mauritius."&nbsp;

Watch: UK Agrees To Return Chagos Islands To Mauritius, Ending Decades-Long Dispute

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Mauritius Foreign Minister Maneesh Gobin hailed the agreement as "historic". "3rd October 2024. A day to remember. A day to commemorate full sovereignty of the Republic of Mauritius over the entirety of its territory," he wrote on X.

US President Joe Biden described the pact as a "historic settlement." “It is a clear demonstration that through diplomacy and partnership, countries can overcome long-standing historical challenges to reach peaceful and mutually beneficial outcomes,” he said in a White House statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-mauritius-chagos-archipelago-agreement-india-played-quiet-but-crucial-role-in-deal-says-report-764357">Also read: UK-Mauritius Chagos archipelago agreement: India played quiet but crucial role in deal, says report</a>

Mauritius will now launch a programme to resettle the Chagossians to their islands and the UK will help with a trust fund that will provide the people of the islands with additional support.

<h2>Chagos Islands was caught in history, politics and warfare: What you should know</h2>

In 2019, the International Court of Justice asked the UK to let go of its control of the Chagos Islands, which it governed since 1814.&nbsp;The court's opinion came at the end of a long and sad saga for the Chagossians.&nbsp;

Chagos Islands, a strategically significant archipelago in the Indian Ocean, comprises over 60 islands. Diego Garcia, the largest of these islands, is of military importance because of the US airbase.

The islands were largely uninhabited till around 1783, when the French settlers brought African slaves to work in the coconut plantations they had established there.

The British took control of the islands and nearby Mauritius in 1814, following the Napoleonic Wars which the French lost, leading to Napoleon’s abdication and exile.

It was governed as part of British Mauritius, and Indian indentured labourers were brought to the islands, as well as Mauritius, when slavery was abolished.

Chagos became a contentious land at the height of the Cold War in the 1960s when the US was looking for a military base in the Indian Ocean region. In 1965, Britain separated the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius and turned it into a British Indian Ocean Territory. It then leased Diego Garcia to the US to build the military base which started operating in 1971.

To facilitate the US, Britain forcibly displaced around 2,000 indigenous Chagossians from the island.

During this depopulation process, from 1967 to 1973, the Chagossians were moved thousands of miles away to Mauritius and Seychelles against their will.

In 1968, Mauritius gained independence from Britain, which retained its control of the Chagos Islands.

Diego Garcia's military base played a crucial role for the US during its wars in the Gulf and Afghanistan.

In its advisory opinion in 2019, the ICJ called for the end of the British administration of Chagos Island, noting that its decolonisation of Mauritius was incomplete.

Over the years, the Chagossians sought the right to return to their homeland, engaging in long-drawn legal battles, which went all the way up to the ICJ. Their struggles became a key aspect of the cruelties of colonialism and human rights violations. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

In a historic decision, the United Kingdom handed over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius after over two centuries of control, a move that would allow hundreds of displaced islanders to return to their homeland.

In a historic decision, the United Kingdom handed over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius after over two centuries of control, a move that would allow hundreds of displaced islanders to return to their homeland. India played a quiet yet key role in facilitating the agreement between the UK and Mauritius, having always supported the claim of Mauritius to the island, which includes Diego Garcia where the United States operates a military base under lease from Britain. India welcomed the deal, calling it a part of decolonisation even as the UK said it would continue to have the right to use the base in Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago. New Delhi said it was a positive outcome for all the parties, and a move that will enhance long-term security in the Indian Ocean. After the agreement was announced, Britain and Mauritius issued a joint statement, expressing their commitment to address "historical injustices" and working for the welfare of the Chagossian people. "This government inherited a situation where the long-term, secure operation of the Diego Garcia military base was under threat, with contested sovereignty and ongoing legal challenges," said UK Foreign Minister David Lammy in a statement. "The agreement secures this vital military base for the future. It will strengthen our role in safeguarding global security, shut down any possibility of the Indian Ocean being used as a dangerous illegal migration route to the UK, as well as guaranteeing our long-term relationship with Mauritius." Watch: UK Agrees To Return Chagos Islands To Mauritius, Ending Decades-Long Dispute × Mauritius Foreign Minister Maneesh Gobin hailed the agreement as "historic". "3rd October 2024. A day to remember. A day to commemorate full sovereignty of the Republic of Mauritius over the entirety of its territory," he wrote on X. US President Joe Biden described the pact as a "historic settlement." “It is a clear demonstration that through diplomacy and partnership, countries can overcome long-standing historical challenges to reach peaceful and mutually beneficial outcomes,” he said in a White House statement. Also read: UK-Mauritius Chagos archipelago agreement: India played quiet but crucial role in deal, says report Mauritius will now launch a programme to resettle the Chagossians to their islands and the UK will help with a trust fund that will provide the people of the islands with additional support. Chagos Islands was caught in history, politics and warfare: What you should know In 2019, the International Court of Justice asked the UK to let go of its control of the Chagos Islands, which it governed since 1814. The court's opinion came at the end of a long and sad saga for the Chagossians. Chagos Islands, a strategically significant archipelago in the Indian Ocean, comprises over 60 islands. Diego Garcia, the largest of these islands, is of military importance because of the US airbase. The islands were largely uninhabited till around 1783, when the French settlers brought African slaves to work in the coconut plantations they had established there. The British took control of the islands and nearby Mauritius in 1814, following the Napoleonic Wars which the French lost, leading to Napoleon’s abdication and exile. It was governed as part of British Mauritius, and Indian indentured labourers were brought to the islands, as well as Mauritius, when slavery was abolished. Chagos became a contentious land at the height of the Cold War in the 1960s when the US was looking for a military base in the Indian Ocean region. In 1965, Britain separated the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius and turned it into a British Indian Ocean Territory. It then leased Diego Garcia to the US to build the military base which started operating in 1971. To facilitate the US, Britain forcibly displaced around 2,000 indigenous Chagossians from the island. During this depopulation process, from 1967 to 1973, the Chagossians were moved thousands of miles away to Mauritius and Seychelles against their will. In 1968, Mauritius gained independence from Britain, which retained its control of the Chagos Islands. Diego Garcia's military base played a crucial role for the US during its wars in the Gulf and Afghanistan. In its advisory opinion in 2019, the ICJ called for the end of the British administration of Chagos Island, noting that its decolonisation of Mauritius was incomplete. Over the years, the Chagossians sought the right to return to their homeland, engaging in long-drawn legal battles, which went all the way up to the ICJ. Their struggles became a key aspect of the cruelties of colonialism and human rights violations. (With inputs from agencies)

Know about Chagos Islands, whose control UK has reliquished, and which hosts Diego Garcia military base

UK government has agreed to hand sovereignty of the long-contested Chagos Islands to Mauritius while retaining sovereignty of Diego Garcia airbase for an initial period of 99 years. Watch in for more details!

UK Retains Control Of Deigo Garvia Airbase, Deal Allows Settlement Of Chagos Islanders

Cyber attacks are rising as digital crime becomes a new geopolitical background. With the world suffering from the war consequences in real time, this digital warfront is equally devastating. WION’s business editor Rahul Karunakar spoke to José Manuel Barroso, former president of the European Commission and former prime minister of Portugal, on what the nations can do to mitigate risks around cyber attacks. Listen in to what he had to say…

‘Cyber Attacks Compliment Other Forms Of War:’ Ex PM Of Portugal On Growing Threat Of Cyber Attacks

UK Handovers The Control Of Chagos Islands To Mauritius

A recent study has shown that experiencing real art can significantly enrich brain activity, heighten emotional responses, and strengthen memory. The research highlights how direct engagement with art stimulates neural pathways, leading to deeper cognitive and emotional processing, offering profound mental benefits beyond mere aesthetic appreciation.

Study Reveals That Experiencing Real Art Enhances Brain Function, Emotions, and Memory

On Friday, the Supreme Court directed a special investigation team (SIT) to look into the claims made by the Andhra Pradesh government, led by N Chandrababu, that the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu (YSR) Congress Party's previous government used inferior ghee that contained animal fat to make laddus at the Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati.

Tirupati Laddu Row: India's Top Court Orders SIT Probe

India's foreign minister S Jaishankar is meeting with the new Sri Lankan leadership in Columbo. His visit marks the first by any foreign minister to the island nation after the new government was sworn in last week. Watch in for more details!

Indian EAM Jaishankar Meets Sri Lankan Counterpart, Assures India's Support For Economic Rebuilding

A series of massive blasts Rock Beirut Southern suburbs as Israel continued its strikes in Lebanon. Reports claimed that slain Hezbollah Chief Hassan Nasrallah's presumed successor Hashim Safi was the target of one of these strikes. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hezbollah War: IDF Chief Vows To Continue Pounding Hezbollah Sites In Lebanon

After 31 years, the legendary treasure hunt for the elusive Golden Owl has finally come to an end. Launched in 1993, the hunt required participants to solve a series of complex puzzles that would lead them to the hidden owl sculpture, believed to be buried somewhere in France. Treasure hunters from around the world have dedicated decades to deciphering clues, making it one of the longest-running treasure hunts in modern history. The owl, a golden statue, has captivated puzzle enthusiasts for over three decades, with its discovery marking the conclusion of a remarkable adventure.

31-Year-Old Treasure Hunt Finally Ends Of Golden Owl, Participants Had To Solve Puzzles

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak predicted that Israel is likely to launch a large-scale airstrike against Iran's oil industry and possibly a symbolic attack on a military target related to its nuclear programme, the Guardian reported, on Friday (Oct 4).&nbsp;

Barak said that there was no doubt that Israel would not retaliate against Iran's Tuesday attack with over 180 ballistic missiles.&nbsp;

“Israel has a compelling need, even an imperative, to respond. I think that no sovereign nation on Earth could fail to respond,” Barak said in an interview.

He further said that the model for the Israeli response could be seen in Sunday's reprisal airstrikes against Houthi-controlled air facilities, power plants and docks in the Yemeni port of Hodeidah. This comes a day after the Yemen-based militant group fired missiles aimed at Israel's international airport outside Tel Aviv.

“I think we might see something like that. It might be a massive attack, and it could be repeated more than once," the former prime minister told Guardian.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-in-first-public-address-in-5-years-calls-missile-attack-on-israel-legal-and-legitimate-764453">Also read:&nbsp;Khamenei, in first public address in 5 years, calls missile attack on Israel 'legal and legitimate'</a>

Barak has also served as defence minister, foreign minister and army chief of staff, in the past.&nbsp;

The former PM noted that there had also been suggestions that Israel should make use of this opportunity, in reprisal for the Iranian attack and launch attacks against Iran's nuclear facilities. However, he argued it would not significantly set back the Iranian programme.&nbsp;

Earlier on Thursday, United States President Joe Biden highlighted that there had been discussions in Washington about a possible Israeli attack on Iran's oil sector, however he did not give any details on whether the US would support such an assault.

During his tenure as defence minister, Barak was among Israel's most staunch advocates for bombing the Iranian nuclear facilities, trying and failing to convince former US Presidents George Bush and then Barack Obama, to contribute American military might to the campaign.

“There are some commentators and even some people within the defence establishment who raised the question: Why the hell not hit the nuclear military programme?” Barak said. “A little bit more than a decade ago, I was probably the most hawkish person in Israeli leadership arguing that it was worth considering very seriously, because there was an actual capability to delay them by several years."

“That’s not the case right now, because Iran is a de facto threshold country,” he argued. “They do not have yet a weapon – it may take them a year to have one, and even half a decade to have a small arsenal. Practically speaking, you cannot easily delay them in any significant manner.”

According to Barak, a significant Israeli military response to an Iranian missile attack is not unavoidable and justifiable, he argued that the drift to a regional war could have been avoided much earlier if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been open to a US-promoted plan to rally Arab support for a post-war Palestinian government in Gaza to replace Hamas.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Iran War: Will Not Negotiate In Public On Israeli Strikes In Iran

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“I think that a strong response is inevitable. That doesn’t mean it was written in heaven a year ago that it’s going to happen,” Barak told the Guardian. “There were probably several opportunities to limit this conflict before it turned into something like a full-scale Middle East clash. For reasons that cannot be explained under any strategic thought, Netanyahu rejected any kind of discussion of what we call ‘the day after’".&nbsp;

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)

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak predicted that Israel is likely to launch a large-scale airstrike against Iran's oil industry and possibly a symbolic attack on a military target related to its nuclear programme, the Guardian reported, on Friday (Oct 4).

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak predicted that Israel is likely to launch a large-scale airstrike against Iran's oil industry and possibly a symbolic attack on a military target related to its nuclear programme, the Guardian reported, on Friday (Oct 4). Barak said that there was no doubt that Israel would not retaliate against Iran's Tuesday attack with over 180 ballistic missiles. “Israel has a compelling need, even an imperative, to respond. I think that no sovereign nation on Earth could fail to respond,” Barak said in an interview. He further said that the model for the Israeli response could be seen in Sunday's reprisal airstrikes against Houthi-controlled air facilities, power plants and docks in the Yemeni port of Hodeidah. This comes a day after the Yemen-based militant group fired missiles aimed at Israel's international airport outside Tel Aviv. “I think we might see something like that. It might be a massive attack, and it could be repeated more than once," the former prime minister told Guardian. Also read: Khamenei, in first public address in 5 years, calls missile attack on Israel 'legal and legitimate' Barak has also served as defence minister, foreign minister and army chief of staff, in the past. The former PM noted that there had also been suggestions that Israel should make use of this opportunity, in reprisal for the Iranian attack and launch attacks against Iran's nuclear facilities. However, he argued it would not significantly set back the Iranian programme. Earlier on Thursday, United States President Joe Biden highlighted that there had been discussions in Washington about a possible Israeli attack on Iran's oil sector, however he did not give any details on whether the US would support such an assault. During his tenure as defence minister, Barak was among Israel's most staunch advocates for bombing the Iranian nuclear facilities, trying and failing to convince former US Presidents George Bush and then Barack Obama, to contribute American military might to the campaign. “There are some commentators and even some people within the defence establishment who raised the question: Why the hell not hit the nuclear military programme?” Barak said. “A little bit more than a decade ago, I was probably the most hawkish person in Israeli leadership arguing that it was worth considering very seriously, because there was an actual capability to delay them by several years." “That’s not the case right now, because Iran is a de facto threshold country,” he argued. “They do not have yet a weapon – it may take them a year to have one, and even half a decade to have a small arsenal. Practically speaking, you cannot easily delay them in any significant manner.” According to Barak, a significant Israeli military response to an Iranian missile attack is not unavoidable and justifiable, he argued that the drift to a regional war could have been avoided much earlier if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been open to a US-promoted plan to rally Arab support for a post-war Palestinian government in Gaza to replace Hamas. Watch | Israel-Iran War: Will Not Negotiate In Public On Israeli Strikes In Iran × “I think that a strong response is inevitable. That doesn’t mean it was written in heaven a year ago that it’s going to happen,” Barak told the Guardian. “There were probably several opportunities to limit this conflict before it turned into something like a full-scale Middle East clash. For reasons that cannot be explained under any strategic thought, Netanyahu rejected any kind of discussion of what we call ‘the day after’". 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)

Israel likely to launch symbolic attack on Iran nuclear-related facilities, says former PM Ehud Barak

Tirupati Laddu Row: SC Orders SIT Probe, Says ‘Do Not Want The Issue To Turn Into Political Drama’

Tens of thousands of dockworkers have launched an indefinite strike at major US ports, posing a threat to trade and the economy just before the presidential election and holiday shopping season. Members of the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) walked out on Tuesday, halting container traffic at 14 major ports along the East and Gulf coasts, from Maine to Texas. This is the first large-scale shutdown in nearly 50 years. While President Joe Biden has the authority to suspend the strike for 80 days to allow for further negotiations, the White House has indicated no plans to intervene.

USA Port Strike Paralyzes Supply Chains,  Port Shutdown Sparks Supply Fears

UK government has agreed to hand sovereignty of the long-contested Chagos Islands to Mauritius while retaining sovereignty of Diego Garcia airbase for an initial period of 99 years.

In Historic Move, UK Gives Sovereignty Of Chagos Islands To Mauritius, Retains Diego Garcia Airbase

For the first time, Hindu pilgrims on Thursday (October 3) witnessed the sacred Kailash peak, the abode of Lord Shiva, from Indian territory instead of Tibet. The viewpoint is located at the Old Lipulekh Pass in the Vyas Valley of Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand, which holds significant religious importance.

Mount Kailash Visible From India: First Hindu Pilgrims Share Emotional Experience

Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei addressed worshippers in Tehran in a rare public sermon Friday (Oct 4). He had a rifle by his side as he spoke, days after Iran's missile attack on Israel.&nbsp;

This is Khamenei's first sermon in nearly five years. Thousands of worshippers holding portraits of slain leaders of Iran's "axis of resistance" against Israel and the United States gathered to hear him speak.

Talking about the current crisis in West Asia, Khamenei said the missile attack on Israel was "legal and legitimate".

"The operation of our armed forces a few nights ago was totally legal and legitimate," he said during a rare Friday prayer sermon.&nbsp;

He called the attack "minimum punishment" for Israel's crimes.

Khamenei even defended the October 7 attack&nbsp;on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, calling it "logical and legal".&nbsp;

Israel has been going after Hezbollah leaders in Lebanon, with Hassan Nasrallah being killed a few days back. It is already entangled in a war with Hamas in Gaza. The supreme leader raised both matters in his sermon, saying that Israel "cannot seriously harm" Hezbollah and Hamas.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strikes-near-beirut-airport-reportedly-targeted-nasrallahs-successor-764339">Israeli strikes near Beirut airport reportedly targeted Nasrallah's successor</a>

He lauded the Lebanon-based militant group, stating that Hezbollah's fight is a "vital service to the entire region".&nbsp;

<h2>Israel carries out fresh strikes in Beirut</h2>

Early Friday, Israel carried out fresh strikes in Beirut with large explosions reported outside the city’s international airport right after an aircraft landed. Axios reporter Barak Ravid, citing an Israeli source, said in a post on social media platform X that the strike reportedly targeted senior Hezbollah official Hashem Safieddine.

Safieddine is considered the heir of slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have ordered 20 more towns and villages in south Lebanon to evacuate, telling the people to leave immediately for their own safety.

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden said on Thursday he did not believe there is going to be an "all-out war" in the Middle East. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei addressed worshippers in Tehran in a rare public sermon Friday (Oct 4). He had a rifle by his side as he spoke, days after Iran's missile attack on Israel.

Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei addressed worshippers in Tehran in a rare public sermon Friday (Oct 4). He had a rifle by his side as he spoke, days after Iran's missile attack on Israel. This is Khamenei's first sermon in nearly five years. Thousands of worshippers holding portraits of slain leaders of Iran's "axis of resistance" against Israel and the United States gathered to hear him speak. Talking about the current crisis in West Asia, Khamenei said the missile attack on Israel was "legal and legitimate". "The operation of our armed forces a few nights ago was totally legal and legitimate," he said during a rare Friday prayer sermon. He called the attack "minimum punishment" for Israel's crimes. Khamenei even defended the October 7 attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, calling it "logical and legal". Israel has been going after Hezbollah leaders in Lebanon, with Hassan Nasrallah being killed a few days back. It is already entangled in a war with Hamas in Gaza. The supreme leader raised both matters in his sermon, saying that Israel "cannot seriously harm" Hezbollah and Hamas. Also Read: Israeli strikes near Beirut airport reportedly targeted Nasrallah's successor He lauded the Lebanon-based militant group, stating that Hezbollah's fight is a "vital service to the entire region". Israel carries out fresh strikes in Beirut Early Friday, Israel carried out fresh strikes in Beirut with large explosions reported outside the city’s international airport right after an aircraft landed. Axios reporter Barak Ravid, citing an Israeli source, said in a post on social media platform X that the strike reportedly targeted senior Hezbollah official Hashem Safieddine. Safieddine is considered the heir of slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have ordered 20 more towns and villages in south Lebanon to evacuate, telling the people to leave immediately for their own safety. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden said on Thursday he did not believe there is going to be an "all-out war" in the Middle East. (With inputs from agencies)

Khamenei, in first public address in 5 years, calls missile attack on Israel 'legal and legitimate'

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered his first public sermon in five years on Friday, declaring that the Islamic Republic’s missile strikes on Israel were "legal and legitimate". Watch in for more details!

BREAKING | 'Hezbollah's Fight Vital Service To Entire Region': Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei In Rare Sermon

Boris Johnson, former Prime Minister of Britain, has claimed that Benjamin Netanyahu left a bugging device in his bathroom when the Israeli premier visited Britain in 2017, when BoJo was serving the foreign secretary.

Did Netanyahu install a bugging device in Boris Johnson's bathroom?

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered his first public sermon in five years on Friday, declaring that the Islamic Republic’s missile strikes on Israel were "legal and legitimate".

BREAKING: Iran’s Khamenei Addresses First Friday Sermon in 5 Years

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is leading a rare prayer sermon in Tehran to commemorate the death of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah.

Iran's Khamenei Speaks at Rare Friday Gathering as Israel Conflict Escalates

Japan is struggling with a massive problem of a royal scale, quite literally. The country is facing a lack of imperial successors as it is now left with only one heir apparent. The problem is so massive that the royal family recently had its first adult male in 40 years.

Japan's new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said Friday that lawmakers should debate solutions to Japan's "urgent" lack of imperial successors. The rules, right now, only allow men to ascend the throne, and this is creating a major problem for the royal family.

"Stable royal succession is extremely important. Stabilising the number of members of the Imperial Family is a particularly urgent issue," Ishiba said in his first policy speech to parliament, calling for active debate on the issue.

Emperor Naruhito and his Harvard-educated wife Masako have only one child, Princess Aiko. However, the rules don't let a female ascend the throne. So next in line is Prince Hisahito, the nephew of the emperor and son of Crown Prince Akishino, the emperor's brother.

Akishino was the last male in the family to reach adulthood, way back in 1985.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-royal-family-just-had-its-first-adult-male-in-40-years-756642">Japan's royal family just had its first adult male in 40 years</a>

The imperial family has been ruling for more than a millennium. There are 17 members and Hisahito is the youngest of them all. The family has only four men.

<h2>Women can't ascend throne in Japan</h2>

Women of the royal often marry commoners and lose their royal status. However, Princess Aiko is quite popular among the people of the country. Even though she is from a direct line of ascent, and a favourite to become Empress, the law won't let her take over.

Before Hisahito was born, there were suggestions to bring changes in the law to fight the crisis. However, after he was born in 2006, the proposal to let a woman take over the crown was shelved.&nbsp;

In 2022, the matter was raised again when experts asked the government to introduce a proposal allowing female members to keep their royal status after marriage.&nbsp;

This way, the number of members in the imperial family will not fall down. It also asked to adopt male descendants from the defunct royal families to continue the male lineage with distant relatives.

Japan is struggling with a massive problem of a royal scale, quite literally. The country is facing a lack of imperial successors as it is now left with only one heir apparent.

Japan is struggling with a massive problem of a royal scale, quite literally. The country is facing a lack of imperial successors as it is now left with only one heir apparent. The problem is so massive that the royal family recently had its first adult male in 40 years. Japan's new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said Friday that lawmakers should debate solutions to Japan's "urgent" lack of imperial successors. The rules, right now, only allow men to ascend the throne, and this is creating a major problem for the royal family. "Stable royal succession is extremely important. Stabilising the number of members of the Imperial Family is a particularly urgent issue," Ishiba said in his first policy speech to parliament, calling for active debate on the issue. Emperor Naruhito and his Harvard-educated wife Masako have only one child, Princess Aiko. However, the rules don't let a female ascend the throne. So next in line is Prince Hisahito, the nephew of the emperor and son of Crown Prince Akishino, the emperor's brother. Akishino was the last male in the family to reach adulthood, way back in 1985. Also Read: Japan's royal family just had its first adult male in 40 years The imperial family has been ruling for more than a millennium. There are 17 members and Hisahito is the youngest of them all. The family has only four men. Women can't ascend throne in Japan Women of the royal often marry commoners and lose their royal status. However, Princess Aiko is quite popular among the people of the country. Even though she is from a direct line of ascent, and a favourite to become Empress, the law won't let her take over. Before Hisahito was born, there were suggestions to bring changes in the law to fight the crisis. However, after he was born in 2006, the proposal to let a woman take over the crown was shelved. In 2022, the matter was raised again when experts asked the government to introduce a proposal allowing female members to keep their royal status after marriage. This way, the number of members in the imperial family will not fall down. It also asked to adopt male descendants from the defunct royal families to continue the male lineage with distant relatives.

Crunch of successors in royal family called out in Japan parliament, PM asks for debate

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