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<p>A senior Israeli official accused the United States&nbsp;of endangering Israeli soldiers by leaking its plans for the Israeli ground operation in Lebanon, The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday (Sep 30), the official called the leaks by the US "dangerous", saying that it has put the Israeli troops in danger, according to Kan news.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This was done even though the US supports the operation," the official said, adding, "but it is clear to us that the US is worried — and therefore they outed the operation to try to limit it.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-begins-localised-and-targeted-ground-operation-in-lebanon-days-after-hezbollah-chiefs-death-763329"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel begins 'localised and targeted' ground operation in Lebanon, days after Hezbollah chief's death</strong></a></p>

<p>The official further said that "there will be no (diplomatic) arrangement in Lebanon before the end of the operation.”</p>

<p>This comes amid the reports that the ministers in Israel's political-security cabinet were left frustrated that the news of their planned invasion was leaked. Following the reports, an unnamed US security official confirmed yesterday to different news outlets of an impending 'limited' invasion into Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Israel Begins Ground Invasion In South Lebanon</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday said that Israel "had told us that those are limited operations focused on Hezbollah infrastructure near the border".&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, US President Joe Biden also told reporters that he was "more aware than you might know", before adding: "We should have a cease-fire now".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


A senior Israeli official accused the United States of endangering Israeli soldiers by leaking its plans for the Israeli ground operation in Lebanon, The Times of Israel reported.

A senior Israeli official accused the United States of endangering Israeli soldiers by leaking its plans for the Israeli ground operation in Lebanon, The Times of Israel reported. On Monday (Sep 30), the official called the leaks by the US "dangerous", saying that it has put the Israeli troops in danger, according to Kan news. “This was done even though the US supports the operation," the official said, adding, "but it is clear to us that the US is worried — and therefore they outed the operation to try to limit it.” Also read: Israel begins 'localised and targeted' ground operation in Lebanon, days after Hezbollah chief's death The official further said that "there will be no (diplomatic) arrangement in Lebanon before the end of the operation.” This comes amid the reports that the ministers in Israel's political-security cabinet were left frustrated that the news of their planned invasion was leaked. Following the reports, an unnamed US security official confirmed yesterday to different news outlets of an impending 'limited' invasion into Lebanon. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Israel Begins Ground Invasion In South Lebanon × Meanwhile, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday said that Israel "had told us that those are limited operations focused on Hezbollah infrastructure near the border". On Monday, US President Joe Biden also told reporters that he was "more aware than you might know", before adding: "We should have a cease-fire now". 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)

Israeli official accuses US of endangering IDF soldiers by leaking Lebanon ground operation plans

<p>New details have emerged regarding the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on September&nbsp;27 in an Israeli strike&nbsp;on Beirut. Israeli news outlet Channel 12 has reported that the explosion itself didn’t kill Nasrallah but the 64-year-old militant most likely suffered asphyxiation as toxic gases leaked into his secret chamber.</p>

<p>Israel reportedly targeted the secret hideout of Nasrallah using 80 tonnes of “bunker-busting” bombs. The attack came as Nasrallah prepared to hold a meeting with senior Hezbollah leadership at the headquarters of the Lebanon-based militant group.</p>

<p>The strike was executed by Israeli Air Force (IAF) fighter jets at the group’s underground Central Headquarters, reportedly located beneath a residential building in the Dahieh area of Beirut.</p>

<p>According to media reports, Lebanese officials recovered Nasrallah’s dead body with no visible wound marks after the IDF strikes.</p>

<p>This indicates that he may have died of toxic gases in the room as the headquarters building came crashing down.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiBheKAiu2IAxVjyzgGHYY7OWAQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-says-hezbollah-leader-hassan-nasrallah-eliminated-in-beirut-strike-762745" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-says-hezbollah-leader-hassan-nasrallah-eliminated-in-beirut-strike-762745&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBheKAiu2IAxVjyzgGHYY7OWAQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">West Asia crisis: Hezbollah confirms leader Hassan Nasrallah's death in IDF strikes on Beirut</a></strong></p>

<p>A security official, meanwhile, claimed that Nasrallah may have died of blunt trauma and not due to toxic gases.</p>

<p>Even as several conspiracy theories emerge in media and social media, the militant group has maintained a silence over the issue, while vowing strong retaliation against Israeli aggression.</p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden was quick to call Nasrallah’s death a “measure of justice”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiBheKAiu2IAxVjyzgGHYY7OWAQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-mole-gave-away-hezbollah-chief-hassan-nasrallahs-location-report-claims-762929" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-mole-gave-away-hezbollah-chief-hassan-nasrallahs-location-report-claims-762929&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBheKAiu2IAxVjyzgGHYY7OWAQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">Iranian mole gave away Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah’s location? Report claims...</a></strong></p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who apparently green-lighted the strikes from New York, called the operation as necessary and a potential “historic turning point” in the region.</p>

<p>Nasrallah had been leading Hezbollah for over three decades, playing a key role since the 2006 Lebanon War against Israel. He was also involved in regional politics, supporting the Assad regime in Syria during the Syrian Civil War.</p>

<p>Nasrallah oversaw Hezbollah’s transformation from a guerrilla group focused on resisting Israeli occupation into a significant political player in Lebanon.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>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.</strong></em></p>


New details have emerged regarding the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on September 27 in an Israeli strike on Beirut. Israeli news outlet Channel 12 has reported that the explosion itself didn’t kill Nasrallah but the 64-year-old militant most likely suffered asphyxiation as toxic gases leaked into his secret chamber.

New details have emerged regarding the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on September 27 in an Israeli strike on Beirut. Israeli news outlet Channel 12 has reported that the explosion itself didn’t kill Nasrallah but the 64-year-old militant most likely suffered asphyxiation as toxic gases leaked into his secret chamber. Israel reportedly targeted the secret hideout of Nasrallah using 80 tonnes of “bunker-busting” bombs. The attack came as Nasrallah prepared to hold a meeting with senior Hezbollah leadership at the headquarters of the Lebanon-based militant group. The strike was executed by Israeli Air Force (IAF) fighter jets at the group’s underground Central Headquarters, reportedly located beneath a residential building in the Dahieh area of Beirut. According to media reports, Lebanese officials recovered Nasrallah’s dead body with no visible wound marks after the IDF strikes. This indicates that he may have died of toxic gases in the room as the headquarters building came crashing down. Also read: West Asia crisis: Hezbollah confirms leader Hassan Nasrallah's death in IDF strikes on Beirut A security official, meanwhile, claimed that Nasrallah may have died of blunt trauma and not due to toxic gases. Even as several conspiracy theories emerge in media and social media, the militant group has maintained a silence over the issue, while vowing strong retaliation against Israeli aggression. United States President Joe Biden was quick to call Nasrallah’s death a “measure of justice”. Also read: Iranian mole gave away Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah’s location? Report claims... Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who apparently green-lighted the strikes from New York, called the operation as necessary and a potential “historic turning point” in the region. Nasrallah had been leading Hezbollah for over three decades, playing a key role since the 2006 Lebanon War against Israel. He was also involved in regional politics, supporting the Assad regime in Syria during the Syrian Civil War. Nasrallah oversaw Hezbollah’s transformation from a guerrilla group focused on resisting Israeli occupation into a significant political player in Lebanon. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

West Asia crisis: ‘Blunt trauma, suffocation,’ conspiracy theories emerge around Nasrallah’s death

The French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has gone on trial on charges of embezzling money from the European parliament, in a high-profile case that could endanger her presidential ambitions.

French Far-right's Marine Le Pen Faces Court Hearing Over Fake EU Jobs

Search and rescue teams in Nepal's capital are picking through wrecked homes, After waters have receded from monsoon floods that killed at least 238 people. Entire neighbourhoods in Kathmandu were inundated after the heaviest rains in more than two decades, With the capital temporarily cut off from the rest of Nepal after landslides blocked highways. Watch in for more details!

Nepal Floods: Entire Neighbourhoods In Kathmandu Inundated; At Least 238 Killed, 28 Missing

<p>German airline group Lufthansa said Tuesday it had extended its suspension of flights to Beirut and Tel Aviv, citing "the current situation in the Middle East".</p>

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<p>Flights to Beirut will now be suspended up to and including November 30, while those to Tel Aviv will be cancelled until October 31, the group said in a statement. Flights to Tehran remain cancelled until October 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers," the group added.</p>

<p>The Lufthansa group -- whose carriers also include Swiss Air, Austrian Airlines and Brussels Airlines -- has repeatedly modified its flight schedule in recent months due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, as have other airlines.</p>

<p>The Israeli army said its troops were locked in fierce clashes in Lebanon after launching a ground offensive Tuesday, escalating the conflict against Hezbollah after a week of air strikes that killed hundreds.</p>

<p>Following the example of its parent company, Swiss Air said the extension of its flight suspensions was "intended to provide more predictability for both our passengers and our crews".</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>


German airline group Lufthansa said Tuesday it had extended its suspension of flights to Beirut and Tel Aviv, citing "the current situation in the Middle East". Flights to Beirut will now be suspended up to and including November 30, while those to Tel Aviv will be cancelled until October 31, the group said in a statement.

German airline group Lufthansa said Tuesday it had extended its suspension of flights to Beirut and Tel Aviv, citing "the current situation in the Middle East". Flights to Beirut will now be suspended up to and including November 30, while those to Tel Aviv will be cancelled until October 31, the group said in a statement. Flights to Tehran remain cancelled until October 14. "We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers," the group added. The Lufthansa group -- whose carriers also include Swiss Air, Austrian Airlines and Brussels Airlines -- has repeatedly modified its flight schedule in recent months due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, as have other airlines. The Israeli army said its troops were locked in fierce clashes in Lebanon after launching a ground offensive Tuesday, escalating the conflict against Hezbollah after a week of air strikes that killed hundreds. Following the example of its parent company, Swiss Air said the extension of its flight suspensions was "intended to provide more predictability for both our passengers and our crews". 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.

German airline group Lufthansa extends suspension of Beirut and Tel Aviv flights

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<p>The Japanese Parliament on Tuesday (Oct 1) formally elected Shigeru Ishiba as the Prime Minister. Ishiba, the country's former defence minister, was elected as PM&nbsp;last Friday&nbsp;to replace Fumio Kishida.</p>

<p>Last weekend,&nbsp;Ishiba, 67, was chosen as the prime minister&nbsp;after he&nbsp;won the Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP)&nbsp;leadership race,&nbsp;clinching a run-off victory&nbsp;after a contest among an unprecedentedly large field of nine candidates.</p>

<p>PM Ishiba has also announced his cabinet, which includes several security and defense experts.</p>

<p>Ishiba appointed to his Cabinet two former defense ministers — Takeshi Iwaya as foreign minister and Gen Nakatani as defense chief.</p>

<p>Only two of the 19 ministers are women: actor-turned-lawmaker Junko Mihara as children’s policy minister and Toshiko Abe as education minister. Both portfolios are considered low-profile. The number of women is Japan cabinet has also reduced, from four under PM Fumio Kishida.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The government is under pressure to increase the number of women in public office. Women now account for only 10% of the lower house, placing Japan near the bottom of global gender-equality rankings.</p>

<p>Ishiba appointed several ministers who voted for him in the party leadership poll and retained Kishida's top confidante, Yoshimasa Hayashi, as chief Cabinet secretary. He also appointed Katsunobu Kato as finance minister. Hayashi also previously served as defense minister.</p>

<h2><strong>Ishiba announces snap election for October</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday,<strong>&nbsp;</strong>Ishiba announced his plan to call a snap election in Japan later on October 27.&nbsp;“I believe it is important to have the new administration get the public’s judgment as soon as possible,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-incoming-pm-shigeru-ishiba-willing-to-consider-a-snap-election-in-near-future-763082">Shigeru Ishiba willing to consider a snap election on Oct 27</a></strong></p>

<p>The Associated Press report said that opposition parties criticised Ishiba&nbsp;for allowing only a short period for his policies to be examined and discussed in parliament before the national election.</p>

<h2><strong>What has Ishiba proposed as PM?</strong></h2>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong> Ishiba has proposed an Asian version of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The absence of a collective self-defence system like NATO in Asia means that wars are likely to break out because there is no obligation for mutual defence. Under these circumstances, the creation of an Asian version of NATO is essential to deter China from its Western allies,” the 67-year-old wrote&nbsp;in an article to the Hudson Institute last week.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong> He has proposed&nbsp;more discussion among regional partners about the use of the US&nbsp;nuclear deterrence.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;&nbsp;</strong>Ishiba has proposed combining existing security and diplomatic groupings, such as the Quad and other bilateral and multilateral frameworks involving the United States, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and the Philippines.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | Race to Power: Shigeru Ishiba calls for snap election&nbsp;on October 27</strong></p>

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<p><strong>&gt; </strong>He has also stressed that&nbsp;Japan needs to reinforce its security, noting recent violations of Japanese airspace by Russian and Chinese warplanes and repeated missile launches by North Korea.</p>

<p><strong>&gt; </strong>Ishiba pledged to&nbsp;continue Kishida’s economic policy aimed at pulling Japan out of deflation and achieving real salary increases while tackling challenges such as Japan’s declining birthrate and population and resilience to natural disasters.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Japanese Parliament on Tuesday (Oct 1) formally elected Shigeru Ishiba as the Prime Minister. Ishiba, the country's former defence minister, was elected as PM last Friday to replace Fumio Kishida.

The Japanese Parliament on Tuesday (Oct 1) formally elected Shigeru Ishiba as the Prime Minister. Ishiba, the country's former defence minister, was elected as PM last Friday to replace Fumio Kishida. Last weekend, Ishiba, 67, was chosen as the prime minister after he won the Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP) leadership race, clinching a run-off victory after a contest among an unprecedentedly large field of nine candidates. PM Ishiba has also announced his cabinet, which includes several security and defense experts. Ishiba appointed to his Cabinet two former defense ministers — Takeshi Iwaya as foreign minister and Gen Nakatani as defense chief. Only two of the 19 ministers are women: actor-turned-lawmaker Junko Mihara as children’s policy minister and Toshiko Abe as education minister. Both portfolios are considered low-profile. The number of women is Japan cabinet has also reduced, from four under PM Fumio Kishida. The government is under pressure to increase the number of women in public office. Women now account for only 10% of the lower house, placing Japan near the bottom of global gender-equality rankings. Ishiba appointed several ministers who voted for him in the party leadership poll and retained Kishida's top confidante, Yoshimasa Hayashi, as chief Cabinet secretary. He also appointed Katsunobu Kato as finance minister. Hayashi also previously served as defense minister. Ishiba announces snap election for October On Sunday, Ishiba announced his plan to call a snap election in Japan later on October 27. “I believe it is important to have the new administration get the public’s judgment as soon as possible,” he said. Also read | Shigeru Ishiba willing to consider a snap election on Oct 27 The Associated Press report said that opposition parties criticised Ishiba for allowing only a short period for his policies to be examined and discussed in parliament before the national election. What has Ishiba proposed as PM? > Ishiba has proposed an Asian version of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). “The absence of a collective self-defence system like NATO in Asia means that wars are likely to break out because there is no obligation for mutual defence. Under these circumstances, the creation of an Asian version of NATO is essential to deter China from its Western allies,” the 67-year-old wrote in an article to the Hudson Institute last week. > He has proposed more discussion among regional partners about the use of the US nuclear deterrence. > Ishiba has proposed combining existing security and diplomatic groupings, such as the Quad and other bilateral and multilateral frameworks involving the United States, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and the Philippines. Also watch | Race to Power: Shigeru Ishiba calls for snap election on October 27 × > He has also stressed that Japan needs to reinforce its security, noting recent violations of Japanese airspace by Russian and Chinese warplanes and repeated missile launches by North Korea. > Ishiba pledged to continue Kishida’s economic policy aimed at pulling Japan out of deflation and achieving real salary increases while tackling challenges such as Japan’s declining birthrate and population and resilience to natural disasters. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan formally elects Shigeru Ishiba as prime minister, cabinet announced

<p><strong>California to ban legacy admissions:</strong> In elite US colleges and universities, children or relatives of top-shot politicians, celebrities, rich donors and alumni could get admission just on the basis of who they were born into. Slowly, that's changing, with California becoming the fifth state to ban the so-called 'legacy admissions.'</p>

<p>"In California, everyone should be able to get ahead through merit, skill, and hard work," Governor Gavin Newsom said after signing the relevant bill into law. "The California Dream shouldn't be accessible to just a lucky few, which is why we're opening the door to higher education wide enough for everyone, fairly."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-for-science-chinese-for-humanities-us-diplomat-on-courses-for-foreign-students-734915">Also read: Indians for science, Chinese for humanities: US diplomat on courses for foreign students</a></p>

<p>Phil Ting, the Democratic state legislator who wrote the bill, said "hard work, good grades and a well-rounded background should earn you a spot in the incoming class – not the size of the cheque your family can write or who you’re related to.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>These backdoor entries into Ivy League institutions happen even as millions of students take entrance tests and pay student loans years after coming out of colleges and universities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: US willing to intake more STEM students from India than China</strong></p>

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<p>The legacy admission bans in several states come in the wake of the US Supreme Court cracking down on race-based admissions under affirmative action. The apex court asked private and public universities not to consider race as a factor in college admissions, in a decision seen by critics as targeting mainly Black students. That case put the spotlight on how white students were getting into colleges and universities through practices like legacy admissions, which was being seen as affirmative action for rich kids.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/green-cards-for-indian-students-trump-proposes-citizenship-for-foreign-students-studying-in-us-733746"><strong>Also read: Green cards for Indian students? Trump proposes citizenship for foreign students studying in US</strong></a><br />
<br />
The bill signed by Governor Newsom applies not only the public educational institutions but also to private and nonprofit ones. It will come into effect from September 2025.</p>

<p>Before California, the midwestern state of Illinois passed a bill to ban such legacy admissions. Maryland and Virginia banned legacy admissions earlier this year. Colorado was the first to pass such a bill, in 2021. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How bad is legacy admission practice in California?</strong></h2>

<p>Data showed that six California colleges and universities gave preferential treatment to candidates related to graduates and donors in the Fall of 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Topping the list was the University of Southern California, which admitted 1,791 students in that category. Another hallowed institution, Stanford University, admitted 295 students under this stream and Santa Clara University took in 38 students.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new rule is expected to create a level playing field for admission to some of the most sought-after educational institutions in the world.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


California to ban legacy admissions: In elite US colleges and universities, children or relatives of top-shot politicians, celebrities, rich donors and alumni could get admission just on the basis of who they were born into.

California to ban legacy admissions: In elite US colleges and universities, children or relatives of top-shot politicians, celebrities, rich donors and alumni could get admission just on the basis of who they were born into. Slowly, that's changing, with California becoming the fifth state to ban the so-called 'legacy admissions.' "In California, everyone should be able to get ahead through merit, skill, and hard work," Governor Gavin Newsom said after signing the relevant bill into law. "The California Dream shouldn't be accessible to just a lucky few, which is why we're opening the door to higher education wide enough for everyone, fairly." Also read: Indians for science, Chinese for humanities: US diplomat on courses for foreign students Phil Ting, the Democratic state legislator who wrote the bill, said "hard work, good grades and a well-rounded background should earn you a spot in the incoming class – not the size of the cheque your family can write or who you’re related to.” These backdoor entries into Ivy League institutions happen even as millions of students take entrance tests and pay student loans years after coming out of colleges and universities. Watch: US willing to intake more STEM students from India than China × The legacy admission bans in several states come in the wake of the US Supreme Court cracking down on race-based admissions under affirmative action. The apex court asked private and public universities not to consider race as a factor in college admissions, in a decision seen by critics as targeting mainly Black students. That case put the spotlight on how white students were getting into colleges and universities through practices like legacy admissions, which was being seen as affirmative action for rich kids. Also read: Green cards for Indian students? Trump proposes citizenship for foreign students studying in US The bill signed by Governor Newsom applies not only the public educational institutions but also to private and nonprofit ones. It will come into effect from September 2025. Before California, the midwestern state of Illinois passed a bill to ban such legacy admissions. Maryland and Virginia banned legacy admissions earlier this year. Colorado was the first to pass such a bill, in 2021. How bad is legacy admission practice in California? Data showed that six California colleges and universities gave preferential treatment to candidates related to graduates and donors in the Fall of 2023. Topping the list was the University of Southern California, which admitted 1,791 students in that category. Another hallowed institution, Stanford University, admitted 295 students under this stream and Santa Clara University took in 38 students. The new rule is expected to create a level playing field for admission to some of the most sought-after educational institutions in the world. (With inputs from agencies)

California legacy admissions banned: Soon, rich kids can't get into college only based on money

Israeli forces have launched a ground incursion into southern Lebanon, escalating their offensive against Hezbollah and widening the conflict with Iranian-aligned groups. This significant move follows a series of intense Israeli strikes on Hezbollah, including one that allegedly killed their long-time leader, Hassan Nasrallah.

Israel-Hezbollah War: Israeli Military Launches Ground Invasion Targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon

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<p>Former Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte on Tuesday (Oct 1) took over as the new chief of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).&nbsp;Rutte took over from Jens Stoltenberg as&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;secretary-general.</p>

<p>"I'm determined to prepare&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;for the challenges of the future," Rutte said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-allowing-kyiv-use-long-range-arms-would-put-nato-at-war-with-russia-putin-758226">West allowing Kyiv to use long-range arms would put NATO at 'war with Russia': Putin</a></strong></p>

<p>Stoltenberg, the former prime minister of Norway, stepped down as boss of the 32-member military alliance after a turbulent decade marked above all by Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Rutte voices strong support for Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Rutte voiced strong support for Ukraine and pointed out that there could be "no lasting security in Europe without a strong, independent Ukraine." He added that he wanted to step up the military alliance's support for Kyiv and bring it even closer to NATO.</p>

<p>"We must sustain this support into the future, because Ukraine's rightful place is in&nbsp;NATO," he added.</p>

<p>His appointment as the new NATO boss came as Russia&nbsp;pressed on with the war and there was uncertainty over&nbsp;future Western support for Ukraine and growing calls for a resolution to the conflict.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | World DNA: North Korea slams US for providing military aid to Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>NATO, whose members have supplied 99 per cent of all foreign weaponry to Ukraine, agreed at a summit in July this year to play a bigger role in delivering those arms and Rutte will be key in stewarding support, a report by the news agency AFP said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Not worried about upcoming US presidential election'</strong></h2>

<p>Rutte also said on Tuesday that he was not worried about the upcoming November 5 presidential election in the United States (US). Rutte pointed out that he could work with Donald Trump or Kamala Harris.</p>

<p>"I worked for four years with Donald Trump. He was the one pushing us to spend more (on defence), and he achieved because indeed, at the moment, we are now at a much higher spending level than we were when he took office," Rutte added.</p>

<p>"Kamala Harris has a fantastic record as vice president. She's a highly respected leader, so I will be able to work with both," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte on Tuesday (Oct 1) took over as the new chief of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Rutte took over from Jens Stoltenberg as NATO secretary-general.

Former Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte on Tuesday (Oct 1) took over as the new chief of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Rutte took over from Jens Stoltenberg as NATO secretary-general. "I'm determined to prepare NATO for the challenges of the future," Rutte said. Also read | West allowing Kyiv to use long-range arms would put NATO at 'war with Russia': Putin Stoltenberg, the former prime minister of Norway, stepped down as boss of the 32-member military alliance after a turbulent decade marked above all by Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Rutte voices strong support for Ukraine Rutte voiced strong support for Ukraine and pointed out that there could be "no lasting security in Europe without a strong, independent Ukraine." He added that he wanted to step up the military alliance's support for Kyiv and bring it even closer to NATO. "We must sustain this support into the future, because Ukraine's rightful place is in NATO," he added. His appointment as the new NATO boss came as Russia pressed on with the war and there was uncertainty over future Western support for Ukraine and growing calls for a resolution to the conflict. Also watch | World DNA: North Korea slams US for providing military aid to Ukraine × NATO, whose members have supplied 99 per cent of all foreign weaponry to Ukraine, agreed at a summit in July this year to play a bigger role in delivering those arms and Rutte will be key in stewarding support, a report by the news agency AFP said. 'Not worried about upcoming US presidential election' Rutte also said on Tuesday that he was not worried about the upcoming November 5 presidential election in the United States (US). Rutte pointed out that he could work with Donald Trump or Kamala Harris. "I worked for four years with Donald Trump. He was the one pushing us to spend more (on defence), and he achieved because indeed, at the moment, we are now at a much higher spending level than we were when he took office," Rutte added. "Kamala Harris has a fantastic record as vice president. She's a highly respected leader, so I will be able to work with both," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Dutch PM Mark Rutte takes over as new NATO chief, voices strong support for war-torn Ukraine

On Tuesday, October 1, 2024, Israeli forces launched a ground incursion into southern Lebanon, escalating their offensive against Hezbollah and widening the conflict with Iranian-aligned groups. This significant move follows a series of intense Israeli strikes on Hezbollah, including one that allegedly killed their long-time leader, Hassan Nasrallah.

Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: 95 Killed, 172 Wounded In Israeli Strikes On Beirut's Suburbs

<p>For the Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship passengers, it was supposed to be three and half years of voyage across the world from this May. But for the past four and half months, they were stuck in Belfast, Northern Ireland. On Monday night (Sep 30), they finally set off on&nbsp;their journey, after living and befriending the locals in the Irish town.</p>

<p>The cruise ship owned by Villa Vie Residences had got stuck before it could start what was billed as the world's first continual cruise, due to a variety of troubles: from repairs to financial constraints to paperwork.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There she goes … 👋<br />
Cruise ship stuck in Belfast for 4 months left Belfast just before midnight &amp; is now off the coast of Bangor. ⛴️ <a href="https://t.co/Qow5Vflvsi">pic.twitter.com/Qow5Vflvsi</a></p>
— Mark Simpson (@BBCMarkSimpson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCMarkSimpson/status/1840894055296778250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Finally, when the announcement was made that the residential ship would indeed depart, some of the 125 passengers shouted 'hip hip hooray' and cheered.</p>

<p>They boarded the ocean liner after 23:30 local time on Monday night.</p>

<p>But technically, their global&nbsp;voyage didn't start immediately.&nbsp;From Belfast, the ship went to a cruise terminal nearby, and then anchored offshore overnight.</p>

<p>Its global circumnavigation will start on Tuesday.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/icon-of-the-seas-worlds-largest-cruise-ship-begins-its-maiden-voyage-684499">Also read: Icon of the Seas: World’s largest cruise ship begins maiden voyage</a></strong></p>

<p>While they were stuck in cold, rainy Belfast all these months, many of the passengers were thankful for the warm welcome they received from the town.</p>

<p>One passenger was quoted by the BBC as saying he was absolutely ecstatic to embark on the cruise.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⚓️After four long months of making Belfast their new home…<br />
<br />
🛳️Those aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey ship are finally ready to set sail!<br />
<br />
🏙️Not before saying goodbye to the city though… in style!<br />
<br />
👋The crew have set off on their ‘Bye Bye Belfast Beer Bike’ <a href="https://t.co/XLyXHt9zWm">pic.twitter.com/XLyXHt9zWm</a></p>
— Cool FM News (@newsoncool) <a href="https://twitter.com/newsoncool/status/1840362410202263561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Some passengers cried with joy when Mike Petersen, head of the US-based Villa Vie Residences, announced that the ship would leave.</p>

<p>"The exhilaration of getting on that ship, when it takes off, it will be the feeling of a lifetime," AFP news agency quoted Chicago-based actor Martino, 61, as saying.</p>

<p>"I've been in Belfast for four months and two days, but hey, who's counting,!" said another passenger Holly Hennessy, holding her cat, 'Captain'.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WATCH: WION aboard 'The Empress' | India's first international cruise to Sri Lanka</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What went wrong with the cruise in Belfast?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The cruise liner was supposed to take off on the world voyage on May 30 from Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland.</p>

<p>But it faced problems from the start, as repair and retrofitting&nbsp;work took longer than expected, as did the paperwork.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/norwegian-cruise-line-holdings-surges-as-profit-forecasts-sail-higher-746021">Also read: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings surges as profit forecasts sail higher</a></strong><br />
<br />
These past months, the ship went through engine repair in Belfast's Harland &amp; Wolff, the same shipyard where Titanic was built a century ago.</p>

<p>Then, the shipbuilder went broke, adding to the woes.</p>

<p>The passengers, who could rent cabins in the ship, were not allowed to sleep in it. They rented apartments or slept in hotels all these months. Some of them just travelled inside Northern Ireland, while others went further afield to Europe or other cruises.</p>

<p>The cruise liner, with 600-passenger capacity, will pass through seven continents in the coming years. It will have more than 425 stops in 147 destinations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 'perpetual&nbsp;cruise' will then repeat for the next 15 years.<br />
<br />
Well, fingers crossed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


For the Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship passengers, it was supposed to be three and half years of voyage across the world from this May. But for the past four and half months, they were stuck in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

For the Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship passengers, it was supposed to be three and half years of voyage across the world from this May. But for the past four and half months, they were stuck in Belfast, Northern Ireland. On Monday night (Sep 30), they finally set off on their journey, after living and befriending the locals in the Irish town. The cruise ship owned by Villa Vie Residences had got stuck before it could start what was billed as the world's first continual cruise, due to a variety of troubles: from repairs to financial constraints to paperwork. There she goes … 👋 Cruise ship stuck in Belfast for 4 months left Belfast just before midnight & is now off the coast of Bangor. ⛴️ pic.twitter.com/Qow5Vflvsi — Mark Simpson (@BBCMarkSimpson) September 30, 2024 × Finally, when the announcement was made that the residential ship would indeed depart, some of the 125 passengers shouted 'hip hip hooray' and cheered. They boarded the ocean liner after 23:30 local time on Monday night. But technically, their global voyage didn't start immediately. From Belfast, the ship went to a cruise terminal nearby, and then anchored offshore overnight. Its global circumnavigation will start on Tuesday. Also read: Icon of the Seas: World’s largest cruise ship begins maiden voyage While they were stuck in cold, rainy Belfast all these months, many of the passengers were thankful for the warm welcome they received from the town. One passenger was quoted by the BBC as saying he was absolutely ecstatic to embark on the cruise. ⚓️After four long months of making Belfast their new home… 🛳️Those aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey ship are finally ready to set sail! 🏙️Not before saying goodbye to the city though… in style! 👋The crew have set off on their ‘Bye Bye Belfast Beer Bike’ pic.twitter.com/XLyXHt9zWm — Cool FM News (@newsoncool) September 29, 2024 × Some passengers cried with joy when Mike Petersen, head of the US-based Villa Vie Residences, announced that the ship would leave. "The exhilaration of getting on that ship, when it takes off, it will be the feeling of a lifetime," AFP news agency quoted Chicago-based actor Martino, 61, as saying. "I've been in Belfast for four months and two days, but hey, who's counting,!" said another passenger Holly Hennessy, holding her cat, 'Captain'. WATCH: WION aboard 'The Empress' | India's first international cruise to Sri Lanka × What went wrong with the cruise in Belfast? The cruise liner was supposed to take off on the world voyage on May 30 from Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. But it faced problems from the start, as repair and retrofitting work took longer than expected, as did the paperwork. Also read: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings surges as profit forecasts sail higher These past months, the ship went through engine repair in Belfast's Harland & Wolff, the same shipyard where Titanic was built a century ago. Then, the shipbuilder went broke, adding to the woes. The passengers, who could rent cabins in the ship, were not allowed to sleep in it. They rented apartments or slept in hotels all these months. Some of them just travelled inside Northern Ireland, while others went further afield to Europe or other cruises. The cruise liner, with 600-passenger capacity, will pass through seven continents in the coming years. It will have more than 425 stops in 147 destinations. The 'perpetual cruise' will then repeat for the next 15 years. Well, fingers crossed. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship leaves Belfast four months after getting stuck with passengers

The Fortnite developer Epic games has accused Google and Samsung of violating US antitrust law. The game maker has alleged the tech companies of coordinating to block third-party app on Samsung devices, the two companies have been accused of reducing consumer choice and preventing competition that would make app less expensive.

Fortnite Creator Accuses Samsung and Google Of Scheme To Block App Rivals

Search and rescue teams in Nepal's capital are picking through wrecked homes, After waters have receded from monsoon floods that killed at least 238 people. Entire neighbourhoods in Kathmandu were inundated after the heaviest rains in more than two decades, With the capital temporarily cut off from the rest of Nepal after landslides blocked highways.

Nepal Floods: India Issues Helpline Numbers For Citizens Stranded In Nepal

<p>The Israeli military said several projectiles were fired Tuesday from across the border into the country's northern areas after Israel began targeted ground raids against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.</p>

<p>The projectiles were fired after sirens sounded in the Metula and Avivim areas, the military said, adding that some of the projectiles were intercepted while others fell in open areas.</p>

<p>Police said one projectile hit a road near the central town of Kfar Kassen, wounding a man who was struck by shrapnel and treated by emergency services.</p>

<p>The cross-border fire from Lebanon came as Israel launched what it called limited ground operations in southern Lebanon and also targeted south Beirut, Damascus and Gaza amid a flurry of fighting.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Operation 'Northern Arrows' Now Underway</strong></p>

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<p>Early Tuesday, Israel's military said its forces, backed by air strikes and artillery, carried out "targeted ground raids" on Hezbollah positions in settlements along the border.</p>

<p>It said the targets posed an "immediate threat" to northern Israeli communities, and warned Lebanese civilians against driving in a southern zone along the border.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Iran-backed militant outfit said it had twice targeted Israeli troop movements in Metula in northern Israel, after IDF announced the start of a "limited" cross-border ground operation.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supports-israels-ground-operation-in-lebanon-warns-iran-not-to-intervene-763358"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;US supports Israel's ground operation in Lebanon, warns Iran not to intervene</strong></a></p>

<p>The group targeted "a movement of enemy soldiers in Metula with artillery shells", it said in a statement. In another, it said it had targeted a "gathering of enemy soldiers" in the same area with rockets.</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>


The Israeli military said several projectiles were fired Tuesday from across the border into the country's northern areas after Israel began targeted ground raids against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.

The Israeli military said several projectiles were fired Tuesday from across the border into the country's northern areas after Israel began targeted ground raids against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. The projectiles were fired after sirens sounded in the Metula and Avivim areas, the military said, adding that some of the projectiles were intercepted while others fell in open areas. Police said one projectile hit a road near the central town of Kfar Kassen, wounding a man who was struck by shrapnel and treated by emergency services. The cross-border fire from Lebanon came as Israel launched what it called limited ground operations in southern Lebanon and also targeted south Beirut, Damascus and Gaza amid a flurry of fighting. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Operation 'Northern Arrows' Now Underway × Early Tuesday, Israel's military said its forces, backed by air strikes and artillery, carried out "targeted ground raids" on Hezbollah positions in settlements along the border. It said the targets posed an "immediate threat" to northern Israeli communities, and warned Lebanese civilians against driving in a southern zone along the border. Meanwhile, the Iran-backed militant outfit said it had twice targeted Israeli troop movements in Metula in northern Israel, after IDF announced the start of a "limited" cross-border ground operation. Also read | US supports Israel's ground operation in Lebanon, warns Iran not to intervene The group targeted "a movement of enemy soldiers in Metula with artillery shells", it said in a statement. In another, it said it had targeted a "gathering of enemy soldiers" in the same area with rockets. 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.

Projectiles fired into north Israel hours after start of ground operation in Lebanon, claims military

During the COVID-19 lockdown, reduced human activity had unexpected effects beyond Earth, with some studies suggesting a cooling effect on the Moon. This raises questions about how lunar temperatures may reflect changes in Earth's atmosphere and climate.

COVID-19 Lockdown Cooled The Moon: A New Indicator of Earth's Climate?

Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally (RN) party, appeared in court on Monday facing charges of misappropriating EU funds. Le Pen, alongside the RN, 24 party officials, employees, former lawmakers, and parliamentary assistants, is accused of redirecting funds meant for European Parliament work to pay staff working for the party, which was then known as the National Front. Le Pen has expressed confidence in proving her innocence.

French Far-Right Leader Le Pen On Trial For Alleged Misuse Of EU Funds

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<p>A school bus in Thailand taking students and teachers on a field trip caught fire on Tuesday (Oct 1). Citing the government, a report by the news agency AFP said that 44 people- 38 students and six teachers- were onboard the bus. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said there were fatalities and offered condolences to the victims' families.</p>

<p>According to Transport Minister&nbsp;Suriya Jungrungreangkit, the number of deaths was not clear&nbsp;but 25 people were unaccounted for after the blaze.</p>

<p>"Initial reports said there are 44 on board, 38 students and six teachers. As far as we know now, three teachers and 16 students got out.&nbsp;For those still missing, we are not clear yet," Transport Minister&nbsp;Jungrungreangkit said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by the news agency Reuters said that the students and the teachers belonged to the&nbsp;Wat Khao Phraya School.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How did the accident happen?</strong></h2>

<p>A rescue worker told local media that the school bus was carrying students from&nbsp;Uthai Thani province when a tyre burst on a highway in a northern Bangkok suburb, sending the vehicle crashing into a barrier.</p>

<p>The rescue worker said that the bus was running on compressed gas and the crash ignited its fuel tanks.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-legalises-same-sex-marriage-gets-royal-endorsement-761731">Thailand legalises same sex-marriage; gets royal endorsement</a></strong></p>

<p>Another rescue worker told the news agency that the blaze had been put out but rescue workers&nbsp;have had to wait for the bus to cool down before searching it for bodies.</p>

<p>Video footage from the scene showed flames engulfing the bus as it burnt&nbsp;under an overpass.</p>

<h2><strong>'As a mother, I...:&nbsp;PM condoles deaths</strong></h2>

<p>In a post on X,&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;Shinawatra&nbsp;condoled the loss of lives in the accident.&nbsp;"I have learned of the fire on a bus carrying students from Uthai Thani... resulting in deaths and injuries,"&nbsp;Shinawatra&nbsp;said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="th">ดิฉันทราบถึงเหตุการณ์ไฟไหม้รถบัสจากอุทัยธานี ที่โดยสารนักเรียนเข้ามาทัศนศึกษาในกรุงเทพฯ และเกิดอุบัติเหตุบริเวณถนนวิภาวดีรังสิต ซึ่งทำให้มีผู้เสียชีวิตและผู้บาดเจ็บ<br />
<br />
ในฐานะแม่ ดิฉันขอแสดงความเสียใจอย่างสุดซึ้งต่อครอบครัวผู้บาดเจ็บและเสียชีวิต<br />
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ในฐานะรัฐบาล…</p>
— Ing Shin (@ingshin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ingshin/status/1841004482832056745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"As a mother, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the families of the injured and deceased," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prime minister also said that the government would&nbsp;take care of the medical expenses and provide compensation to the families of the deceased.</p>

<p>Around 20,000 people are killed every year on the kingdom's roads, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) -- more than 50 a day on average.</p>

<p>The economic losses caused by traffic deaths and injuries amounted to around $15.5 billion in 2022 -- more than three percent of GDP -- the WHO says.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A school bus in Thailand taking students and teachers on a field trip caught fire on Tuesday (Oct 1). Citing the government, a report by the news agency AFP said that 44 people- 38 students and six teachers- were onboard the bus.

A school bus in Thailand taking students and teachers on a field trip caught fire on Tuesday (Oct 1). Citing the government, a report by the news agency AFP said that 44 people- 38 students and six teachers- were onboard the bus. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said there were fatalities and offered condolences to the victims' families. According to Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, the number of deaths was not clear but 25 people were unaccounted for after the blaze. "Initial reports said there are 44 on board, 38 students and six teachers. As far as we know now, three teachers and 16 students got out. For those still missing, we are not clear yet," Transport Minister Jungrungreangkit said. A report by the news agency Reuters said that the students and the teachers belonged to the Wat Khao Phraya School. How did the accident happen? A rescue worker told local media that the school bus was carrying students from Uthai Thani province when a tyre burst on a highway in a northern Bangkok suburb, sending the vehicle crashing into a barrier. The rescue worker said that the bus was running on compressed gas and the crash ignited its fuel tanks. Also read | Thailand legalises same sex-marriage; gets royal endorsement Another rescue worker told the news agency that the blaze had been put out but rescue workers have had to wait for the bus to cool down before searching it for bodies. Video footage from the scene showed flames engulfing the bus as it burnt under an overpass. 'As a mother, I...: PM condoles deaths In a post on X, Prime Minister Shinawatra condoled the loss of lives in the accident. "I have learned of the fire on a bus carrying students from Uthai Thani... resulting in deaths and injuries," Shinawatra said. ดิฉันทราบถึงเหตุการณ์ไฟไหม้รถบัสจากอุทัยธานี ที่โดยสารนักเรียนเข้ามาทัศนศึกษาในกรุงเทพฯ และเกิดอุบัติเหตุบริเวณถนนวิภาวดีรังสิต ซึ่งทำให้มีผู้เสียชีวิตและผู้บาดเจ็บ ในฐานะแม่ ดิฉันขอแสดงความเสียใจอย่างสุดซึ้งต่อครอบครัวผู้บาดเจ็บและเสียชีวิต ในฐานะรัฐบาล… — Ing Shin (@ingshin) October 1, 2024 × "As a mother, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the families of the injured and deceased," she added. The prime minister also said that the government would take care of the medical expenses and provide compensation to the families of the deceased. Around 20,000 people are killed every year on the kingdom's roads, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) -- more than 50 a day on average. The economic losses caused by traffic deaths and injuries amounted to around $15.5 billion in 2022 -- more than three percent of GDP -- the WHO says. (With inputs from agencies)

School bus in Thailand going on field trip catches fire, 25 feared dead

Ahead of the upcoming Sri Lanka elections, opposition leader Sajith Premadasa has laid out conditions for forming an alliance with the United National Party (UNP). Premadasa, leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), has expressed willingness to collaborate but insists on key policy agreements and leadership roles within the coalition. The potential alliance could reshape the electoral landscape, as both parties seek to strengthen their positions against the ruling government. Negotiations are ongoing as the election date approaches.

Sri Lanka Elections: Sajith Premadasa Sets Conditions For Alliance With UNP

Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Israel Begins Ground Invasion In South Lebanon

Israel has announced a limited ground operation against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israel has now claimed that it has sent its soldiers across the border. In a statement the Israeli Defense Forces said that their targets are located close to the border that posed an immediate threat to Israeli communities in Northern Israel. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: World Leaders Call For De-Escalation

In the Indian state of Karnataka, CM Siddaramaiah's wife has ordered to surrender 14 plots of land which is worth around 67 million dollars after the ED filed a money laundering case against him. The Karnataka CM is accused of Illegally allotting these plots to his wife. Watch to know more.

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Accused Of Illegalities In Land Allotment To Wife

<p>Mount Everest has been growing taller slowly over the years and that's not news, as the mountain was created when two tectonic plates crashed into each other over millennia. But a new study has suggested that there's a relatively sudden growth spurt in the world's tallest peak, and this time it's being attributed to "river piracy".</p>

<p>The study published in Nature Journal examined GPS measurements over the years to reach a conclusion. It found that Everest, also known as Chomolungma or Sagarmatha, was growing at 0.08 inches or 2 millimetres per year, as opposed to the regular 0.04 inches or 1mm per year.</p>

<p>The study by University College London researchers said it "uncovers a previously unrecognised, additional mechanism of rock uplift active since river capture."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Everest is 8,849 metres tall, the nearby peak K2 is 8,611 m. The other three highest mountains in the Himalayas stand at 8,586 m, 8,516 m and 8,485 m, an elevation difference of not more than 100 m.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers suggest that it could be because rocks below the mountain base are being eroded over the years by the rivers flowing in the area.</p>

<p>In science-speak, it is a phenomenon of&nbsp;'river drainage piracy' and 'river capture'.</p>

<p>The erosion of the rocks appears to affect the nearby peaks more than Mount Everest.</p>

<p>It is being caused by the merging of two rivers down below that happened tens of thousands of years ago.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>Watch: Everest faces the challenge of overcrowding, commercialisation hits Mount Everest hard</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>The river capture that may be helping Everest grow</strong></h2>

<p>The 'river capture event' happened in the Kosi River drainage basin some 89,000 years ago. Kosi merged with its tributary Arun River and changed course.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers&nbsp;chasing the question, 'Is there an underlying mechanism raising Everest ever higher?' looked for answers in&nbsp;surrounding rivers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Arun River&nbsp;drains a large area to the north of the Everest region before turning south.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/not-mount-everest-but-this-is-the-tallest-mountain-in-solar-system-can-humans-scale-this-749710"><strong>Also read: Not Mount Everest but THIS is the tallest mountain in solar system. Can humans scale this?</strong></a><br />
<br />
The drainage capture and river incision erode the rocks in the surrounding areas, while relatively keeping Everest intact though tectonic processes remain the basic reason for Everest's gradual growth, the researchers posited.</p>

<p>To reach their conclusion, the scientists reconstructed the capture process using computer models.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/chinese-company-makes-successful-drone-delivery-to-mt-everest-to-aid-cleanliness-operations-729717">Also read: Chinese company makes successful drone delivery to Mt Everest, to aid cleanliness operations</a></p>

<p>"Our best-fit model suggests the capture event occurred approximately 89,000 years ago and caused acceleration of downstream incision rates," wrote the researchers in the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We suggest that part of Chomolungma [Everest]’s anomalous elevation (~15–50 m) can be explained as the isostatic response to capture-triggered river incision, highlighting the complex interplay between geological dynamics and the formation of topographic features," said the study.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Mount Everest has been growing taller slowly over the years and that's not news, as the mountain was created when two tectonic plates crashed into each other over millennia.

Mount Everest has been growing taller slowly over the years and that's not news, as the mountain was created when two tectonic plates crashed into each other over millennia. But a new study has suggested that there's a relatively sudden growth spurt in the world's tallest peak, and this time it's being attributed to "river piracy". The study published in Nature Journal examined GPS measurements over the years to reach a conclusion. It found that Everest, also known as Chomolungma or Sagarmatha, was growing at 0.08 inches or 2 millimetres per year, as opposed to the regular 0.04 inches or 1mm per year. The study by University College London researchers said it "uncovers a previously unrecognised, additional mechanism of rock uplift active since river capture." While Everest is 8,849 metres tall, the nearby peak K2 is 8,611 m. The other three highest mountains in the Himalayas stand at 8,586 m, 8,516 m and 8,485 m, an elevation difference of not more than 100 m. The researchers suggest that it could be because rocks below the mountain base are being eroded over the years by the rivers flowing in the area. In science-speak, it is a phenomenon of 'river drainage piracy' and 'river capture'. The erosion of the rocks appears to affect the nearby peaks more than Mount Everest. It is being caused by the merging of two rivers down below that happened tens of thousands of years ago. Watch: Everest faces the challenge of overcrowding, commercialisation hits Mount Everest hard × The river capture that may be helping Everest grow The 'river capture event' happened in the Kosi River drainage basin some 89,000 years ago. Kosi merged with its tributary Arun River and changed course. The researchers chasing the question, 'Is there an underlying mechanism raising Everest ever higher?' looked for answers in surrounding rivers. The Arun River drains a large area to the north of the Everest region before turning south. Also read: Not Mount Everest but THIS is the tallest mountain in solar system. Can humans scale this? The drainage capture and river incision erode the rocks in the surrounding areas, while relatively keeping Everest intact though tectonic processes remain the basic reason for Everest's gradual growth, the researchers posited. To reach their conclusion, the scientists reconstructed the capture process using computer models. Also read: Chinese company makes successful drone delivery to Mt Everest, to aid cleanliness operations "Our best-fit model suggests the capture event occurred approximately 89,000 years ago and caused acceleration of downstream incision rates," wrote the researchers in the study. "We suggest that part of Chomolungma [Everest]’s anomalous elevation (~15–50 m) can be explained as the isostatic response to capture-triggered river incision, highlighting the complex interplay between geological dynamics and the formation of topographic features," said the study.

Mount Everest is growing a bit faster than usual. And a 'river capture' may have to do with it

Last phase of the Jammu and Kashmir election begins. Security has been tightened in the valley amid the polls, especially in the areas close to the international border. Nearly 3.9 million voters will be deciding the fate of 415 candidates . Watch to know more.

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In Bangladesh the interim government will be holding talks with political parties to discuss the new reforms. In September, the Chief Advisor Yunus said that six independent commissions would be set up to reform the constitution judiciary electoral system, police and the anti corruption commission. Watch to know more.

Bangladesh To Hold Talks On News Reforms

<p>The U.S. military on Monday released video of what it said was an unsafe manoeuvre by a Russian fighter jet near Alaska during an intercept by the U.S. military last week.</p>

<p>The United States regularly carries out aerial intercepts of Russian aircraft in international airspace near Alaska, and usually says they are carried out in a safe and professional manner. But this time was different, officials say.</p>

<p>"The conduct of one Russian Su-35 was unsafe, unprofessional, and endangered all – not what you'd see in a professional air force," Air Force General Gregory Guillot, who oversees U.S. forces in North America said in a statement posted on X.</p>

<p>Russia's embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>North American Aerospace Defense Command, known as NORAD, said on Sept. 23 that it detected and tracked four Russian military aircraft operating in the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone.</p>

<p>At the time, it said the Russian activity "occurs regularly and is not seen as a threat."</p>

<p>An air defense identification zone is international airspace just beyond a country's sovereign territory that approaching aircraft to identify themselves.</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>


The U.S. military on Monday released video of what it said was an unsafe manoeuvre by a Russian fighter jet near Alaska during an intercept by the U.S. military last week.

The U.S. military on Monday released video of what it said was an unsafe manoeuvre by a Russian fighter jet near Alaska during an intercept by the U.S. military last week. The United States regularly carries out aerial intercepts of Russian aircraft in international airspace near Alaska, and usually says they are carried out in a safe and professional manner. But this time was different, officials say. "The conduct of one Russian Su-35 was unsafe, unprofessional, and endangered all – not what you'd see in a professional air force," Air Force General Gregory Guillot, who oversees U.S. forces in North America said in a statement posted on X. Russia's embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment. North American Aerospace Defense Command, known as NORAD, said on Sept. 23 that it detected and tracked four Russian military aircraft operating in the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone. At the time, it said the Russian activity "occurs regularly and is not seen as a threat." An air defense identification zone is international airspace just beyond a country's sovereign territory that approaching aircraft to identify themselves. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US military releases video of ‘unsafe’ Russian fighter jet manoeuvre near Alaska

On 30 Sept, Albanian opposition politicians set fire to a pile of wooden chairs outside parliament in protest against the imprisonment of a fellow member. During the start of the regular parliamentary session, opposition members removed chairs from the chamber and ignited them on the steps of the building. Security guards promptly extinguished the flames.

Albanian Opposition Stages Protest, Setting Chairs on Fire Outside Parliament

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