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Iran has urged India to continue investing in the strategically important Chabahar Port despite mounting pressure from US sanctions, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi describing the project as a “golden gate” for India’s access to Central Asia, the Caucasus and Europe.&nbsp;Speaking on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Araghchi praised India’s contribution to the development of the port and expressed hope that New Delhi would continue its involvement despite sanctions-related challenges.&nbsp;“Chabahar port is one of the symbols of cooperation between Iran and India but progress has slowed down due to American sanctions. We are so glad that Indians played an important role in the development of that port,” Araghchi said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-in-bonkers-boast-reveals-he-told-xi-we-spy-like-hell-on-china-us-china-trump-xi-summit-beijing-1778921135477">Trump in bonkers boast reveals he told Xi 'we spy like hell on China'</a>&nbsp;Calling the port a strategic gateway, he added, “This port will be like a golden gate for India to access Central Asia, the Caucasus and then Europe, and also for Europeans, Central Asians and others to access the Indian Ocean.”&nbsp;The Iranian foreign minister also said he hoped “Indians would continue their work in Chabahar Port so it would be fully developed at the service of the interests of India and other countries around”. His remarks come weeks after a US sanctions waiver linked to the Chabahar Port expired on April 26. The waiver had earlier allowed India to continue development work at the Iranian port despite sanctions imposed by Washington on Tehran.&nbsp;Located near the Strait of Hormuz, Chabahar Port is considered strategically important for India because it provides direct access to Afghanistan and Central Asia without routing trade through Pakistan. In May 2024, India signed a 10-year agreement with Iran to operate the Shahid Beheshti terminal at the port. Under the deal, India took operational control of the terminal as part of its broader regional connectivity strategy.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-thousands-of-bees-invade-trump-s-white-house-spark-biblical-plague-buzz-online-blasphemers-will-be-dealt-with-most-definitely-1778911087678">Watch | Bee swarm 'invades' White House, sparks ‘biblical plague’ buzz online</a> India views the project as a crucial trade and transport hub linked to the International North-South Transport Corridor, aimed at improving connectivity with Central Asia and beyond. The port is also seen as a strategic counterweight to Gwadar Port and China’s expanding influence in the region. During the briefing, Araghchi also praised India’s balanced diplomatic approach amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia following the Iran-US-Israel conflict. He called on New Delhi to play a larger diplomatic role in the Middle East to help maintain regional stability.&nbsp;

Iran urged India to sustain its strategic investments in the Chabahar Port despite expired US sanctions waivers, hailing the project as a vital trade gateway to Central Asia and Europe.

Iran has urged India to continue investing in the strategically important Chabahar Port despite mounting pressure from US sanctions, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi describing the project as a “golden gate” for India’s access to Central Asia, the Caucasus and Europe. Speaking on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Araghchi praised India’s contribution to the development of the port and expressed hope that New Delhi would continue its involvement despite sanctions-related challenges. “Chabahar port is one of the symbols of cooperation between Iran and India but progress has slowed down due to American sanctions. We are so glad that Indians played an important role in the development of that port,” Araghchi said. Also read: Trump in bonkers boast reveals he told Xi 'we spy like hell on China' Calling the port a strategic gateway, he added, “This port will be like a golden gate for India to access Central Asia, the Caucasus and then Europe, and also for Europeans, Central Asians and others to access the Indian Ocean.” The Iranian foreign minister also said he hoped “Indians would continue their work in Chabahar Port so it would be fully developed at the service of the interests of India and other countries around”. His remarks come weeks after a US sanctions waiver linked to the Chabahar Port expired on April 26. The waiver had earlier allowed India to continue development work at the Iranian port despite sanctions imposed by Washington on Tehran. Located near the Strait of Hormuz, Chabahar Port is considered strategically important for India because it provides direct access to Afghanistan and Central Asia without routing trade through Pakistan. In May 2024, India signed a 10-year agreement with Iran to operate the Shahid Beheshti terminal at the port. Under the deal, India took operational control of the terminal as part of its broader regional connectivity strategy. Also read: Watch | Bee swarm 'invades' White House, sparks ‘biblical plague’ buzz online India views the project as a crucial trade and transport hub linked to the International North-South Transport Corridor, aimed at improving connectivity with Central Asia and beyond. The port is also seen as a strategic counterweight to Gwadar Port and China’s expanding influence in the region. During the briefing, Araghchi also praised India’s balanced diplomatic approach amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia following the Iran-US-Israel conflict. He called on New Delhi to play a larger diplomatic role in the Middle East to help maintain regional stability.

Iran urged India to sustain its strategic investments in the Chabahar Port despite expired US sanctions waivers, hailing the project as a vital trade gateway to Central Asia and Europe.

‘Golden gate for India’: Iran urges Delhi to continue Chabahar investments despite US sanctions. Details here

US President Donald Trump, during his recent trip to Beijing, apparently boasted to Chinese President Xi Jinping that the US is better at spying than China. The POTUS, as per reports, even confessed that American spooks have targeted China in ways which they cannot even fathom. Trump made the revelation while speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One en route to Washington.<h2>'We spy like hell on them, too'</h2>Aboard Air Force One, Trump was asked if he had questioned Xi about China's alleged cyberattacks on the US. "I did. And he talked about attacks we did in China. You know, what they do, we do too. We spy like hell on them, too," said the US president."I told him, 'We do a lot of stuff to you that you don't know about," he added. When pressed further, Trump said, "I'm talking about spying. The question was asked of me yesterday, I guess, 'What about the fact that China is spying?' I said, ‘Well, it's one of those things because we spy like hell on them, too'."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-thousands-of-bees-invade-trump-s-white-house-spark-biblical-plague-buzz-online-blasphemers-will-be-dealt-with-most-definitely-1778911087678">Watch | Thousands of bees ‘invade’ Trump's White House; spark ‘biblical plague’ buzz online: 'BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!'</a><h2>A 'double-edged sword'</h2>Trump was also asked whether he was worried about China secretly inserting malicious code into critical American infrastructure, a concern US intelligence agencies have repeatedly flagged as a major national security threat. “You don’t know that,” Trump said. “I’d like to see it, but it’s very possible that they do.”“I told them, ‘We do a lot of stuff to you that you don’t know about, and you are doing stuff to us that we probably do know about'," he said, adding, "But we do plenty. It’s a double-edged sword."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-there-are-youngsters-like-cockroaches-what-made-cji-surya-kant-compare-youngsters-to-pests-supreme-court-hearing-turns-explosive-1778909973915">'There are youngsters like cockroaches': What made CJI Surya Kant compare youngsters to pests? Supreme Court hearing turns explosive</a><h2>Public bravado, private caution</h2>While Trump projected relative calm publicly, reports from journalists travelling with him suggested his staff operated under an entirely different level of concern. According to accounts from reporters aboard Air Force One, US officials confiscated all Chinese-issued badges, pins and devices before passengers re-boarded. At the same time, staff reportedly relied on burner phones during the China trip.Some were allegedly instructed to leave devices behind or destroy temporary phones rather than risk surveillance vulnerabilities."Nothing from China allowed on the plane," one White House correspondent reported.

Fresh off Beijing, US President Donald Trump is claiming he told Xi Jinping something unusually blunt: America spies on China “like hell,” too. All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump, during his recent trip to Beijing, apparently boasted to Chinese President Xi Jinping that the US is better at spying than China. The POTUS, as per reports, even confessed that American spooks have targeted China in ways which they cannot even fathom. Trump made the revelation while speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One en route to Washington. 'We spy like hell on them, too' Aboard Air Force One, Trump was asked if he had questioned Xi about China's alleged cyberattacks on the US. "I did. And he talked about attacks we did in China. You know, what they do, we do too. We spy like hell on them, too," said the US president. "I told him, 'We do a lot of stuff to you that you don't know about," he added. When pressed further, Trump said, "I'm talking about spying. The question was asked of me yesterday, I guess, 'What about the fact that China is spying?' I said, ‘Well, it's one of those things because we spy like hell on them, too'." Also read | Watch | Thousands of bees ‘invade’ Trump's White House; spark ‘biblical plague’ buzz online: 'BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!' A 'double-edged sword' Trump was also asked whether he was worried about China secretly inserting malicious code into critical American infrastructure, a concern US intelligence agencies have repeatedly flagged as a major national security threat. “You don’t know that,” Trump said. “I’d like to see it, but it’s very possible that they do.” “I told them, ‘We do a lot of stuff to you that you don’t know about, and you are doing stuff to us that we probably do know about'," he said, adding, "But we do plenty. It’s a double-edged sword." Also read | 'There are youngsters like cockroaches': What made CJI Surya Kant compare youngsters to pests? Supreme Court hearing turns explosive Public bravado, private caution While Trump projected relative calm publicly, reports from journalists travelling with him suggested his staff operated under an entirely different level of concern. According to accounts from reporters aboard Air Force One, US officials confiscated all Chinese-issued badges, pins and devices before passengers re-boarded. At the same time, staff reportedly relied on burner phones during the China trip. Some were allegedly instructed to leave devices behind or destroy temporary phones rather than risk surveillance vulnerabilities. "Nothing from China allowed on the plane," one White House correspondent reported.

Fresh off Beijing, US President Donald Trump is claiming he told Xi Jinping something unusually blunt: America spies on China “like hell,” too. All you need to know.

Trump in bonkers boast reveals he told Xi 'we spy like hell on China'

Taiwan declared on Saturday that it is a 'sovereign and independent democratic nation' and ‘not subordinate to the People’s Republic of China’, hours after US President Donald Trump warned the island against formally declaring independence following his summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. The unusually direct exchange underscored the continuing volatility surrounding Taiwan, a self-ruled democracy that China claims as part of its territory and has vowed to annex, by force if necessary.&nbsp;Trump, speaking to Fox News after concluding his state visit to China, said he did not want Taipei to provoke a conflict. “I’m not looking to have somebody go independent,” he told ‘Special Report with Bret Baier’. “We’re supposed to travel 9,500 miles to fight a war. I’m not looking for that.” “I want them to cool down. I want China to cool down,” Trump added. “We’re not looking to have wars, and if you kept it the way it is, I think China’s going to be OK with that.” Taiwan’s foreign ministry responded within hours, reiterating that the island already functions as an independent state. “Taiwan is a sovereign and independent democratic nation, and is not subordinate to the People’s Republic of China,” the ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-says-chinese-president-signalled-jimmy-lai-s-release-unlikely-who-is-the-jailed-hong-kong-media-mogul-1778851727550">Trump says Chinese President signalled Jimmy Lai’s release unlikely — Who is the jailed Hong Kong media mogul?</a>&nbsp;<h2>Beijing pressure and Washington’s balancing act</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Taiwan sits at the centre of one of Asia’s most sensitive geopolitical flashpoints. While the United States formally recognises Beijing rather than Taipei, Washington remains Taiwan’s principal security partner under the Taiwan Relations Act, which requires the US to provide the island with defensive weapons.&nbsp;China has sharply increased military pressure on Taiwan in recent years through large-scale air and naval exercises around the island. During his talks with Trump, Xi warned that missteps over Taiwan could trigger ‘conflict’. Taiwan President Lai Ching-te maintains that the island is already independent in practice, making any formal declaration unnecessary. Beijing, however, views Lai as a separatist figure.&nbsp;According to AFP, Taiwan’s Presidential Office said on Saturday that Washington’s long-standing position had not changed, citing “multiple reaffirmations from the US side, including President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio”.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-renews-condemnation-of-attacks-on-uae-after-high-level-discussions-with-uae-president-1778844650095">PM Modi renews condemnation of attacks on UAE after high-level discussions with President</a>&nbsp;<h2>Arms sales under scrutiny amid rising tensions</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Ahead of the Beijing summit, Trump said he intended to discuss US arms sales to Taiwan with Xi, marking a notable shift from Washington’s previous insistence that such decisions would not be negotiated with China. Taiwan’s parliament recently approved a $25 billion defence spending package, much of it linked to American weapons purchases. Lawmakers say nearly $9 billion will fund part of an $11.1 billion arms package announced by Washington in December, with a second proposed package worth more than $15 billion still awaiting US approval.&nbsp;Asked about future sales while travelling back to Washington on Friday, Trump said: “I’ll make a determination over the next fairly short period of time.” Taipei defended the purchases as essential to regional stability. Taiwan’s foreign ministry said US arms sales were “not only a US security commitment to Taiwan clearly stipulated in the Taiwan Relations Act, but also a form of joint deterrence against regional threats”.

The unusually direct exchange underscored the continuing volatility surrounding Taiwan, a self-ruled democracy that China claims as part of its territory and has vowed to annex, by force if necessary.

Taiwan declared on Saturday that it is a 'sovereign and independent democratic nation' and ‘not subordinate to the People’s Republic of China’, hours after US President Donald Trump warned the island against formally declaring independence following his summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. The unusually direct exchange underscored the continuing volatility surrounding Taiwan, a self-ruled democracy that China claims as part of its territory and has vowed to annex, by force if necessary. Trump, speaking to Fox News after concluding his state visit to China, said he did not want Taipei to provoke a conflict. “I’m not looking to have somebody go independent,” he told ‘Special Report with Bret Baier’. “We’re supposed to travel 9,500 miles to fight a war. I’m not looking for that.” “I want them to cool down. I want China to cool down,” Trump added. “We’re not looking to have wars, and if you kept it the way it is, I think China’s going to be OK with that.” Taiwan’s foreign ministry responded within hours, reiterating that the island already functions as an independent state. “Taiwan is a sovereign and independent democratic nation, and is not subordinate to the People’s Republic of China,” the ministry said in a statement. ALSO READ: Trump says Chinese President signalled Jimmy Lai’s release unlikely — Who is the jailed Hong Kong media mogul? Beijing pressure and Washington’s balancing act Taiwan sits at the centre of one of Asia’s most sensitive geopolitical flashpoints. While the United States formally recognises Beijing rather than Taipei, Washington remains Taiwan’s principal security partner under the Taiwan Relations Act, which requires the US to provide the island with defensive weapons. China has sharply increased military pressure on Taiwan in recent years through large-scale air and naval exercises around the island. During his talks with Trump, Xi warned that missteps over Taiwan could trigger ‘conflict’. Taiwan President Lai Ching-te maintains that the island is already independent in practice, making any formal declaration unnecessary. Beijing, however, views Lai as a separatist figure. According to AFP, Taiwan’s Presidential Office said on Saturday that Washington’s long-standing position had not changed, citing “multiple reaffirmations from the US side, including President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio”. ALSO READ: PM Modi renews condemnation of attacks on UAE after high-level discussions with President Arms sales under scrutiny amid rising tensions Ahead of the Beijing summit, Trump said he intended to discuss US arms sales to Taiwan with Xi, marking a notable shift from Washington’s previous insistence that such decisions would not be negotiated with China. Taiwan’s parliament recently approved a $25 billion defence spending package, much of it linked to American weapons purchases. Lawmakers say nearly $9 billion will fund part of an $11.1 billion arms package announced by Washington in December, with a second proposed package worth more than $15 billion still awaiting US approval. Asked about future sales while travelling back to Washington on Friday, Trump said: “I’ll make a determination over the next fairly short period of time.” Taipei defended the purchases as essential to regional stability. Taiwan’s foreign ministry said US arms sales were “not only a US security commitment to Taiwan clearly stipulated in the Taiwan Relations Act, but also a form of joint deterrence against regional threats”.

The unusually direct exchange underscored the continuing volatility surrounding Taiwan, a self-ruled democracy that China claims as part of its territory and has vowed to annex, by force if necessary.

'Sovereign and independent democratic nation': Taiwan rejects subordination to China after Trump warning

Cuba is bracing for a potential invasion from the United States, as negotiations with the Trump administration have produced no concrete results. Lianys Torres Rivera, the Cuban ambassador to the US, in an interview with the US media, The Hill, said that they were preparing to defend themselves “now more than ever”. Rivera said that it was a critical 24-hour period for Cuba. The US blockade of Cuba has led to a complete exhaustion of its fuel supplies, leading to widespread protests in the streets.&nbsp;“When they are enduring 20 hours of blackouts, they have grievances, and they express them,” Rivera told The Hill. She again warned that the US should not confuse that with a Cuban surrender or a weakening Cuban resolve. She cautioned against taking a “wrong reading” of the situation.&nbsp;“We are preparing for this,” Torres Rivera told The Hill of an invasion.“Now we are doing more than ever. We cannot be naive. We cannot be naive. And in the way that we are preparing, it’s not in an offensive way. It’s not that we are preparing to be the first to do any action against the US territory or against the US people. We don’t want that. We are preparing to defend ourselves. And our minister was saying the other day, it could be a big mistake. It could be a bloodbath. We don’t want Cubans dying in Cuba,” she said, nor “any American soldier.”The US have already floated ideas of “friendly takeover” of Cuba in February 2026, Trump called it a “failed nation”. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the current regime “incompetent”.“It’s in our national interest, and to have a prosperous Cuba, not to have a failed state 90 miles from our shores,” &nbsp;said Rubio. Marco Rubio, for years identified as belonging to a family of exiles of Cuban communist rule, later backtracked following a report by The Washington Post which revealed his parents, Mario and Oriales Rubio, actually immigrated legally to the US on a commercial flight in May 1956. This was over two and a half years before the Cuban Revolution succeeded. They left during the right-wing dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista primarily for economic opportunities.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latvia-pm-evika-silina-resigns-ukrainian-drone-crisis-1778908302959">Russia mocks Latvian PM Evika Siliņa's resignation as 'Zelensky curse' - What’s next for Latvia?</a>“We want Cubans not to have to leave that island to be successful. But they can’t, because the current model they have … it’s broken. It doesn’t work, and it’ll never change, as long as the people that are there now are running it,” said Rubio.&nbsp;The Trump administration has publicly offered $100 million in humanitarian aid and free satellite internet to the island in May 2026. However, this financing comes with strict political stipulations: the Cuban government must enact sweeping, structural free-market and political reforms to receive the money. The administration has explicitly warned Cuban leaders to “make a deal before it's too late”.CBS News on Thursday reported that the Trump administration was preparing to indict former Cuban President Raúl Castro on charges in connection with the shooting down of planes 30 years ago, something similar to the absurd trial of the abducted Venezuelan leader, Nicolas Maduro.&nbsp;Cuba has recently opened its economy, announcing in March that it would allow Cubans living abroad to invest in the country and open businesses. The government also signed into law a policy giving small businesses&nbsp;greater autonomy. But this did not impress the US, which had been strangling the economy for decades.&nbsp;“Cuba has done nothing to put in danger the U.S., to put in danger your way of life, to put in danger your businesses, your national security. We are not a threat to the U.S., so there’s no reason for the US to invade Cuba or take any military action against Cuba. We are a small island that wants only to be left alone to decide our future in the way that Cubans want,” said Lianys Torres Rivera. In March 2026, Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío confirmed that the country is preparing for the "possibility of military aggression".The Cuban government is running drills in preparation for an invasion, said President Miguel Díaz-Canel, in a rare interview with a US media outlet.&nbsp;

Cuba says it is preparing for a possible US invasion as negotiations with the Trump administration fail to produce results. Amid blackouts, protests and economic crisis, Cuban officials warn that military action could become a “bloodbath”.

Cuba is bracing for a potential invasion from the United States, as negotiations with the Trump administration have produced no concrete results. Lianys Torres Rivera, the Cuban ambassador to the US, in an interview with the US media, The Hill, said that they were preparing to defend themselves “now more than ever”. Rivera said that it was a critical 24-hour period for Cuba. The US blockade of Cuba has led to a complete exhaustion of its fuel supplies, leading to widespread protests in the streets. “When they are enduring 20 hours of blackouts, they have grievances, and they express them,” Rivera told The Hill. She again warned that the US should not confuse that with a Cuban surrender or a weakening Cuban resolve. She cautioned against taking a “wrong reading” of the situation. “We are preparing for this,” Torres Rivera told The Hill of an invasion. “Now we are doing more than ever. We cannot be naive. We cannot be naive. And in the way that we are preparing, it’s not in an offensive way. It’s not that we are preparing to be the first to do any action against the US territory or against the US people. We don’t want that. We are preparing to defend ourselves. And our minister was saying the other day, it could be a big mistake. It could be a bloodbath. We don’t want Cubans dying in Cuba,” she said, nor “any American soldier.” The US have already floated ideas of “friendly takeover” of Cuba in February 2026, Trump called it a “failed nation”. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the current regime “incompetent”.“It’s in our national interest, and to have a prosperous Cuba, not to have a failed state 90 miles from our shores,” said Rubio. Marco Rubio, for years identified as belonging to a family of exiles of Cuban communist rule, later backtracked following a report by The Washington Post which revealed his parents, Mario and Oriales Rubio, actually immigrated legally to the US on a commercial flight in May 1956. This was over two and a half years before the Cuban Revolution succeeded. They left during the right-wing dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista primarily for economic opportunities. Also Read: Russia mocks Latvian PM Evika Siliņa's resignation as 'Zelensky curse' - What’s next for Latvia? “We want Cubans not to have to leave that island to be successful. But they can’t, because the current model they have … it’s broken. It doesn’t work, and it’ll never change, as long as the people that are there now are running it,” said Rubio. The Trump administration has publicly offered $100 million in humanitarian aid and free satellite internet to the island in May 2026. However, this financing comes with strict political stipulations: the Cuban government must enact sweeping, structural free-market and political reforms to receive the money. The administration has explicitly warned Cuban leaders to “make a deal before it's too late”. CBS News on Thursday reported that the Trump administration was preparing to indict former Cuban President Raúl Castro on charges in connection with the shooting down of planes 30 years ago, something similar to the absurd trial of the abducted Venezuelan leader, Nicolas Maduro. Cuba has recently opened its economy, announcing in March that it would allow Cubans living abroad to invest in the country and open businesses. The government also signed into law a policy giving small businesses greater autonomy. But this did not impress the US, which had been strangling the economy for decades. “Cuba has done nothing to put in danger the U.S., to put in danger your way of life, to put in danger your businesses, your national security. We are not a threat to the U.S., so there’s no reason for the US to invade Cuba or take any military action against Cuba. We are a small island that wants only to be left alone to decide our future in the way that Cubans want,” said Lianys Torres Rivera. In March 2026, Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío confirmed that the country is preparing for the "possibility of military aggression".The Cuban government is running drills in preparation for an invasion, said President Miguel Díaz-Canel, in a rare interview with a US media outlet.

Cuba says it is preparing for a possible US invasion as negotiations with the Trump administration fail to produce results. Amid blackouts, protests and economic crisis, Cuban officials warn that military action could become a “bloodbath”.

Cuba braces for possible US military action amid blackouts, protests and Trump pressure

In what may be the worst single diving accident in the Maldives, five Italians have died in a scuba diving accident, confirmed the foreign ministry in Rome. "The divers are believed to have died while attempting to explore caves at a depth of 50 metres (164ft)," said the ministry, adding that the tragic accident happened in Vaavu Atoll. All we know.<h2>What happened?</h2>According to Rome's foreign ministry, the divers were attempting to explore caves at a depth of 164ft. Four of them were part of a University of Genoa team. The team included professor of ecology Monica Montefalcone, who, as per her husband Carlo Sommacal, was "among the best divers in the world". Her daughter Giorgia Sommacal (22); Muriel Oddenino, 31, a research assistant in the same department as Montefalcone; 31-year-old Federico Gualtieri, a marine biology graduate and diving instructor who had recently completed his thesis on Maldivian coral under Montefalcone’s supervision; and Gianluca Benedetti, a seasoned diving instructor from Padua and operations manager for the Duke of York liveaboard were also part of the scuba diving expedition.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-thousands-of-bees-invade-trump-s-white-house-spark-biblical-plague-buzz-online-blasphemers-will-be-dealt-with-most-definitely-1778911087678">Watch | Thousands of bees ‘invade’ Trump's White House; spark ‘biblical plague’ buzz online: 'BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!'</a>The five Italian divers were among the passengers of the Duke of York yacht. Maldives military officials confirmed that one body has been recovered from a cave nearly 60 metres underwater, while the remaining four divers are believed to still be inside the submerged cavern system.The rescue operation itself has been labelled extremely dangerous, with specialist divers using advanced equipment due to the cave's depth, narrow passageways and hazardous conditions.Initial reports suggest the cave is made up of three large chambers connected by tight underwater corridors, making access exceptionally risky even for trained recovery teams.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-blocks-virginia-democrats-redistricting-plan-preserving-republican-drawn-maps-ahead-of-us-midterms-1778902135313">Supreme Court blocks Virginia Democrats' redistricting plan, preserving Republican-drawn maps ahead of US midterms</a><h2>What may have gone wrong?</h2>The exact cause remains under investigation, but experts are already pointing to several possible dangers. "Oxygen toxicity" might be to blame, said dive master Maurizio Uras as quoted by the Guardian. Deep dives at 50 metres can expose divers to oxygen toxicity if breathing gas mixtures are not correctly calibrated. Combined with rough Indian Ocean currents, poor weather and confined cave spaces, even highly experienced teams can face fatal complications.

A dream dive in Maldives has turned into what may be the country’s deadliest single scuba tragedy, after five Italian divers, including elite researchers and one of Italy’s top diving experts, were lost deep inside a submerged cave system in Vaavu Atoll. What happened 50 metres underwater?

In what may be the worst single diving accident in the Maldives, five Italians have died in a scuba diving accident, confirmed the foreign ministry in Rome. "The divers are believed to have died while attempting to explore caves at a depth of 50 metres (164ft)," said the ministry, adding that the tragic accident happened in Vaavu Atoll. All we know. What happened? According to Rome's foreign ministry, the divers were attempting to explore caves at a depth of 164ft. Four of them were part of a University of Genoa team. The team included professor of ecology Monica Montefalcone, who, as per her husband Carlo Sommacal, was "among the best divers in the world". Her daughter Giorgia Sommacal (22); Muriel Oddenino, 31, a research assistant in the same department as Montefalcone; 31-year-old Federico Gualtieri, a marine biology graduate and diving instructor who had recently completed his thesis on Maldivian coral under Montefalcone’s supervision; and Gianluca Benedetti, a seasoned diving instructor from Padua and operations manager for the Duke of York liveaboard were also part of the scuba diving expedition. Also read | Watch | Thousands of bees ‘invade’ Trump's White House; spark ‘biblical plague’ buzz online: 'BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!' The five Italian divers were among the passengers of the Duke of York yacht. Maldives military officials confirmed that one body has been recovered from a cave nearly 60 metres underwater, while the remaining four divers are believed to still be inside the submerged cavern system. The rescue operation itself has been labelled extremely dangerous, with specialist divers using advanced equipment due to the cave's depth, narrow passageways and hazardous conditions. Initial reports suggest the cave is made up of three large chambers connected by tight underwater corridors, making access exceptionally risky even for trained recovery teams. Also read | Supreme Court blocks Virginia Democrats' redistricting plan, preserving Republican-drawn maps ahead of US midterms What may have gone wrong? The exact cause remains under investigation, but experts are already pointing to several possible dangers. "Oxygen toxicity" might be to blame, said dive master Maurizio Uras as quoted by the Guardian. Deep dives at 50 metres can expose divers to oxygen toxicity if breathing gas mixtures are not correctly calibrated. Combined with rough Indian Ocean currents, poor weather and confined cave spaces, even highly experienced teams can face fatal complications.

A dream dive in Maldives has turned into what may be the country’s deadliest single scuba tragedy, after five Italian divers, including elite researchers and one of Italy’s top diving experts, were lost deep inside a submerged cave system in Vaavu Atoll. What happened 50 metres underwater?

Five Italian divers killed in Maldives cave tragedy after scuba expedition turns deadly

In a significant victory for India’s cultural heritage efforts, the Netherlands is set to return the renowned Anaimangalam Copper Plates, also known as the Leiden Plates, to India during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit. The 11th-century Chola dynasty artefacts, at Leiden University for over three centuries, embody the grandeur of Tamil history and the cosmopolitan ethos of one of South India’s most powerful empires.&nbsp;Weighing around 30 kg and comprising 21 plates bound by a bronze ring with Rajendra Chola I’s royal seal, the inscriptions date to the reign of Emperor Rajaraja Chola I (985–1014 CE) and his son Rajendra. The Sanskrit portion traces the Chola genealogy, invoking divine legitimacy from Vishnu through a line of ancestors.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-thousands-of-bees-invade-trump-s-white-house-spark-biblical-plague-buzz-online-blasphemers-will-be-dealt-with-most-definitely-1778911087678">Watch | Thousands of bees ‘invade’ Trump's White House; spark ‘biblical plague’ buzz online: 'BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!'</a>&nbsp;The Tamil section, however, forms the heart of this Tamil treasure: it records Rajaraja’s grant of revenue from villages near Anaimangalam to support a Buddhist vihara (monastery) in the bustling port of Nagapattinam, built by the Malay king of Srivijaya.&nbsp;At its zenith, the Cholas, quintessential Tamil dynasts, controlled much of South India, Sri Lanka, and launched audacious naval expeditions across Southeast Asia. Their legacy of grand temple architecture, like the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur, administrative innovation, and patronage of Tamil literature and arts remains central to Tamil identity. The plates, etched on durable copper at Rajendra’s initiative to immortalise his father’s verbal order, offer rare primary evidence of this golden age of Chola civilisation.&nbsp;The plates’ journey abroad began around 1700 when Dutch missionary Florentius Camper acquired them during the Dutch East India Company’s control of Nagapattinam. They eventually found their way to Leiden University Library, where they have been studied by scholars but largely inaccessible to the public.&nbsp;India’s repatriation campaign, intensified since 2012, received a boost through UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee in 2023, which validated India’s claim as the country of origin and urged bilateral talks.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-president-zi-blunder-goes-viral-as-trump-campaign-mocked-over-tiktok-typo-during-china-visit-1778892424559">'President Zi' blunder goes viral as Trump campaign mocked over TikTok typo</a>&nbsp;The return symbolises not just the recovery of artefacts but a reconnection with Tamil Nadu’s Chola heritage, a civilisation that fused devotion, trade, and cultural exchange across the Indian Ocean. Their homecoming is expected to fuel renewed interest in Chola studies.

The Netherlands returned the 11th-century Anaimangalam Copper Plates (Leiden Plates) to India during Prime Minister Modi’s visit, restoring a monumental Chola-era record of maritime trade and religious pluralism.

In a significant victory for India’s cultural heritage efforts, the Netherlands is set to return the renowned Anaimangalam Copper Plates, also known as the Leiden Plates, to India during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit. The 11th-century Chola dynasty artefacts, at Leiden University for over three centuries, embody the grandeur of Tamil history and the cosmopolitan ethos of one of South India’s most powerful empires. Weighing around 30 kg and comprising 21 plates bound by a bronze ring with Rajendra Chola I’s royal seal, the inscriptions date to the reign of Emperor Rajaraja Chola I (985–1014 CE) and his son Rajendra. The Sanskrit portion traces the Chola genealogy, invoking divine legitimacy from Vishnu through a line of ancestors. Also read: Watch | Thousands of bees ‘invade’ Trump's White House; spark ‘biblical plague’ buzz online: 'BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!' The Tamil section, however, forms the heart of this Tamil treasure: it records Rajaraja’s grant of revenue from villages near Anaimangalam to support a Buddhist vihara (monastery) in the bustling port of Nagapattinam, built by the Malay king of Srivijaya. At its zenith, the Cholas, quintessential Tamil dynasts, controlled much of South India, Sri Lanka, and launched audacious naval expeditions across Southeast Asia. Their legacy of grand temple architecture, like the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur, administrative innovation, and patronage of Tamil literature and arts remains central to Tamil identity. The plates, etched on durable copper at Rajendra’s initiative to immortalise his father’s verbal order, offer rare primary evidence of this golden age of Chola civilisation. The plates’ journey abroad began around 1700 when Dutch missionary Florentius Camper acquired them during the Dutch East India Company’s control of Nagapattinam. They eventually found their way to Leiden University Library, where they have been studied by scholars but largely inaccessible to the public. India’s repatriation campaign, intensified since 2012, received a boost through UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee in 2023, which validated India’s claim as the country of origin and urged bilateral talks. Also read: 'President Zi' blunder goes viral as Trump campaign mocked over TikTok typo The return symbolises not just the recovery of artefacts but a reconnection with Tamil Nadu’s Chola heritage, a civilisation that fused devotion, trade, and cultural exchange across the Indian Ocean. Their homecoming is expected to fuel renewed interest in Chola studies.

The Netherlands returned the 11th-century Anaimangalam Copper Plates (Leiden Plates) to India during Prime Minister Modi’s visit, restoring a monumental Chola-era record of maritime trade and religious pluralism.

Netherlands to return 11th-century Chola copper plates to India during PM Modi’s visit

For a brief, surreal stretch on Friday (May 15), one of the world’s most heavily guarded addresses on earth found itself facing an unexpected airborne invasion, not from protesters, drones or security threats, but from thousands of bees. A massive bee swarm swept across the White House’s North Lawn, startling reporters, disrupting media positions and triggering scenes that journalists on the ground described as something out of a disaster film. “There is a bee tornado happening here at the White House,” Fox News correspondent Alexandria Hoff said in a video from the scene as the swarm buzzed through the press staging zone known as Pebble Beach. Videos of the moment have gone viral on social media, with netizens questioning if the bees are actually a sign of biblical reckoning for US President Donald Trump and his administration. All you need to know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-there-are-youngsters-like-cockroaches-what-made-cji-surya-kant-compare-youngsters-to-pests-supreme-court-hearing-turns-explosive-1778909973915">'There are youngsters like cockroaches': What made CJI Surya Kant compare youngsters to pests? Supreme Court hearing turns explosive</a><h2>White House driveway briefly blocked</h2>Reportedly, the visuals were dramatic enough that some reporters simply turned around. NewsNation’s Kellie Meyer wrote that she encountered the swarm while arriving at the White House and immediately retreated. "Walked into the White House and a swarm of bees was blocking the driveway. Time to turn around," she said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">So a huge swarm of bees just briefly took over the north lawn driveway at the White House: <a href="https://t.co/tpUdt4CuKc">pic.twitter.com/tpUdt4CuKc</a>&mdash; Alexandria Hoff (@AlexandriaHoff) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexandriaHoff/status/2055360992809291976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While swarming is a natural bee behaviour, often linked to colony division when a new queen emerges, the sheer size and symbolism of the scene quickly pushed the incident beyond biology and straight into a warning of biblical apocalypse.<h2>Internet goes full apocalypse mode</h2>As videos spread, social media did what it does best: troll. Users compared the swarm to biblical plagues, divine warnings and geopolitical satire.Some joked about "spy bees," from Israel or China, others invoked Revelation, while many simply marvelled at the bizarre optics of bees appearing to "storm" the White House.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-fake-jesus-iran-turns-trump-s-deleted-ai-image-into-a-viral-lego-diss-track-amid-pope-row-in-pics-1776326285612">'Fake Jesus!': Iran turns Trump's deleted AI-image into a viral LEGO diss track amid Pope row | In pics</a>"Is this a biblical curse 2.0?," commented one. "I was expecting a swarm of locusts," joked another, even as a third user commented, "Revelations just trying to do its job…""Bees storming the White House - maybe the coming lot will be Locusts / or Plagues?" said a user, ominously adding, "BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!"Yet another X user quipped: "Honestly kinda understood the plagues as being figurative but I guess we are gonna be that open about it."<h2>More spectacle than threat</h2>Despite the online frenzy, there was no indication of danger beyond temporary disruption. As one user noted, "As much as I want it to be a deathly plague straight from God to curse Trump &amp; his entire administration… it just means a new 🐝 Queen 👑 was born. And that’s actually pretty cool."

For a surreal stretch on Friday, the White House faced an invasion no security drill could have predicted: thousands of bees swirling across the North Lawn, triggering “bee tornado” comparisons. The internet thinks it is a biblical prophecy. Scroll down to watch the video.

For a brief, surreal stretch on Friday (May 15), one of the world’s most heavily guarded addresses on earth found itself facing an unexpected airborne invasion, not from protesters, drones or security threats, but from thousands of bees. A massive bee swarm swept across the White House’s North Lawn, startling reporters, disrupting media positions and triggering scenes that journalists on the ground described as something out of a disaster film. “There is a bee tornado happening here at the White House,” Fox News correspondent Alexandria Hoff said in a video from the scene as the swarm buzzed through the press staging zone known as Pebble Beach. Videos of the moment have gone viral on social media, with netizens questioning if the bees are actually a sign of biblical reckoning for US President Donald Trump and his administration. All you need to know. Also read | 'There are youngsters like cockroaches': What made CJI Surya Kant compare youngsters to pests? Supreme Court hearing turns explosive White House driveway briefly blocked Reportedly, the visuals were dramatic enough that some reporters simply turned around. NewsNation’s Kellie Meyer wrote that she encountered the swarm while arriving at the White House and immediately retreated. "Walked into the White House and a swarm of bees was blocking the driveway. Time to turn around," she said.

For a surreal stretch on Friday, the White House faced an invasion no security drill could have predicted: thousands of bees swirling across the North Lawn, triggering “bee tornado” comparisons. The internet thinks it is a biblical prophecy. Scroll down to watch the video.

Watch | Thousands of bees ‘invade’ Trump's White House; spark ‘biblical plague’ buzz online: 'BLASPHEMERS will be dealt with - most definitely!'

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silinja has submitted her resignation to the Seimas. Russia has mocked the resignation of Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa as an ironic consequence of her government's steadfast support for Ukraine. The Russian diplomatic mission has called it one more victim of the “Zelensky curse”. Russian media framed it as "Ukrainian drones "finish off' the leadership of Latvia". Minister Evika Silina has resigned after losing majority as the Progressives Party, her left-leaning coalition partner, withdrew support.The fallout began when several Russia-bound drones strayed off course, reportedly due to Russian electronic warfare and exploded at a Latvian oil storage facility on May 7. Both Latvia and Ukraine acknowledged that the drones may have been Ukrainian. Siliņa fired her Defence Minister Andris Spruds, criticising his response and appointing replacement. In protest, Spurd's progressive party pulled out of the coalition.&nbsp;The Russian diplomatic corps actively promoted a narrative mocking the irony of the situation, “Zelenskyy's curse in action. One more victim. Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa resigns and dissolves her cabinet after two Ukrainian drones crashed in Latvia. Apparently, people weren't thrilled that even then, she blamed it all on Russia”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-iran-enriched-uranium-pr-exercise-1778852092310">Trump says retrieving Iran’s enriched uranium is ‘more PR than necessity’</a>Silina was appointed Latvia's prime minister in September 2023. Her government had been a supporter of Ukrainian sovereignty. All the Baltic nations, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have increased their military spending since Russia invaded Ukraine. Russia forced the narrative that the collapse of the tripartite coalition was a sign of wider Western exhaustion and internal instability. It maintains that Baltic nations are brittle and sacrifice their own domestic stability and airspace integrity to serve Western and Ukrainian military interests. Russia sees them as Western vessel states like Ukraine; however, analysts at Chatham House predict that these Baltic states are more independent and drive the politics of Western Europe. Leaders at Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius routinely criticise larger Western powers like France and Germany for being too slow or hesitant in countering Russian threats.&nbsp;<h2>What's next for Latvia?</h2>President Edgars Rinkevics said he would decide on the "quickest possible formation" of a new government on May 15. &nbsp;Siliņa will remain in office as caretaker prime minister until a successor is officially appointed. She has explicitly emphasised that she is "stepping down, but not giving up," hinting at plans to run again in the autumn. Latvia has been hit by dual political instability, along with a power vacuum. The Minister for Agriculture, Armands Krauze and the Director of the State Chancellery, Raivis Kronbergs, have been detained by Latvia's Corruption Prevention Bureau in a major scandal. While coalition negotiations continue. Latvia already has parliamentary elections scheduled for October 2026, so parties might call a snap election if the talks fail.

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa resigned after a coalition collapse triggered by fallout from stray Ukrainian drones that exploded at a Latvian oil facility. Russia mocked the crisis as the “Zelensky curse” while Latvia faces political instability and coalition negotiations.

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silinja has submitted her resignation to the Seimas. Russia has mocked the resignation of Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa as an ironic consequence of her government's steadfast support for Ukraine. The Russian diplomatic mission has called it one more victim of the “Zelensky curse”. Russian media framed it as "Ukrainian drones "finish off' the leadership of Latvia". Minister Evika Silina has resigned after losing majority as the Progressives Party, her left-leaning coalition partner, withdrew support. The fallout began when several Russia-bound drones strayed off course, reportedly due to Russian electronic warfare and exploded at a Latvian oil storage facility on May 7. Both Latvia and Ukraine acknowledged that the drones may have been Ukrainian. Siliņa fired her Defence Minister Andris Spruds, criticising his response and appointing replacement. In protest, Spurd's progressive party pulled out of the coalition. The Russian diplomatic corps actively promoted a narrative mocking the irony of the situation, “Zelenskyy's curse in action. One more victim. Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa resigns and dissolves her cabinet after two Ukrainian drones crashed in Latvia. Apparently, people weren't thrilled that even then, she blamed it all on Russia”. Also Read: Trump says retrieving Iran’s enriched uranium is ‘more PR than necessity’ Silina was appointed Latvia's prime minister in September 2023. Her government had been a supporter of Ukrainian sovereignty. All the Baltic nations, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have increased their military spending since Russia invaded Ukraine. Russia forced the narrative that the collapse of the tripartite coalition was a sign of wider Western exhaustion and internal instability. It maintains that Baltic nations are brittle and sacrifice their own domestic stability and airspace integrity to serve Western and Ukrainian military interests. Russia sees them as Western vessel states like Ukraine; however, analysts at Chatham House predict that these Baltic states are more independent and drive the politics of Western Europe. Leaders at Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius routinely criticise larger Western powers like France and Germany for being too slow or hesitant in countering Russian threats. What's next for Latvia? President Edgars Rinkevics said he would decide on the "quickest possible formation" of a new government on May 15. Siliņa will remain in office as caretaker prime minister until a successor is officially appointed. She has explicitly emphasised that she is "stepping down, but not giving up," hinting at plans to run again in the autumn. Latvia has been hit by dual political instability, along with a power vacuum. The Minister for Agriculture, Armands Krauze and the Director of the State Chancellery, Raivis Kronbergs, have been detained by Latvia's Corruption Prevention Bureau in a major scandal. While coalition negotiations continue. Latvia already has parliamentary elections scheduled for October 2026, so parties might call a snap election if the talks fail.

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa resigned after a coalition collapse triggered by fallout from stray Ukrainian drones that exploded at a Latvian oil facility. Russia mocked the crisis as the “Zelensky curse” while Latvia faces political instability and coalition negotiations.

Russia mocks Latvian PM Evika Siliņa's resignation as 'Zelensky curse' - What’s next for Latvia?

In a major achievement for the United States American and Nigerian forces have killed the second-in-command leader of ISIS. US President Donald Trump said Abu-Bilal al-Minuki was "eliminated" after he was found hiding in Africa.&nbsp;Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, "Tonight, at my direction, brave American forces and the armed forces of Nigeria flawlessly executed a meticulously planned and very complex mission to eliminate the most active terrorist in the world from the battlefield."&nbsp;"Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, second in command of ISIS globally, thought he could hide in Africa, but little did he know we had sources who kept us informed on what he was doing.&nbsp;“He will no longer terrorize the people of Africa, or help plan operations to target Americans.”<h2>Who was Abu-Bilal al-Minuki?</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>Abu-Bilal al-Minuki was the second in command of ISIS globally</li><li>He was amongst the most influential extremist figures operating across West Africa and the Sahel region</li><li>al-Minuki was killed in a joint operation conducted by American and Nigerian forces in Africa</li><li>He was a senior official linked to ISIS’s General Directorate of Provinces (GDP) overseeing the group’s international branches</li><li>al-Minuki was closely associated with the al-Furqan Office, one of ISIS’s major regional operational and financial coordination networks in Africa</li></ul>&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said Abu-Bilal al-Minuki was eliminated after he was found hiding in Africa.

In a major achievement for the United States American and Nigerian forces have killed the second-in-command leader of ISIS. US President Donald Trump said Abu-Bilal al-Minuki was "eliminated" after he was found hiding in Africa. Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, "Tonight, at my direction, brave American forces and the armed forces of Nigeria flawlessly executed a meticulously planned and very complex mission to eliminate the most active terrorist in the world from the battlefield." "Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, second in command of ISIS globally, thought he could hide in Africa, but little did he know we had sources who kept us informed on what he was doing. “He will no longer terrorize the people of Africa, or help plan operations to target Americans.” Who was Abu-Bilal al-Minuki? Abu-Bilal al-Minuki was the second in command of ISIS globally He was amongst the most influential extremist figures operating across West Africa and the Sahel region al-Minuki was killed in a joint operation conducted by American and Nigerian forces in Africa He was a senior official linked to ISIS’s General Directorate of Provinces (GDP) overseeing the group’s international branches al-Minuki was closely associated with the al-Furqan Office, one of ISIS’s major regional operational and financial coordination networks in Africa

US President Donald Trump said Abu-Bilal al-Minuki was "eliminated" after he was found hiding in Africa.

He will no longer terrorise people: Second-in-command leader of ISIS killed by American forces. Who was Abu-Bilal al-Minuki?

The US Supreme Court on Friday (May 15) rejected an emergency appeal from Virginia Democrats seeking to revive a voter-approved redistricting plan that would have dramatically shifted the state's congressional delegation in their favour ahead of November's midterm elections. But why did the court deny the request? Here's all you need to know.<h2>Why did the SCOTUS deny democrats' appeal?</h2>The court offered no explanation for its decision, saying only in a written order that the application for a stay "is denied." This means that Virginia's existing congressional map now stands preserved. It also hands Republicans a significant procedural victory in what has become an increasingly aggressive national redistricting battle.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-padma-jaiswal-why-it-took-nearly-two-decades-to-dismiss-the-ias-officer-for-a-2007-08-offense-wion-explains-1778830736127">Who is Padma Jaiswal? Why it took nearly two decades to dismiss the IAS officer for a 2007-08 offense | WION Explains</a><h2>Background: Virginia redistricting</h2>The backstory is layered. Virginia voters approved a referendum last month that would have allowed Democrats to redraw the state's congressional districts mid-decade, an unusual move outside the standard post-census redistricting cycle. Had the new maps taken effect, Democrats stood to expand their current 6-5 edge in Virginia's House delegation to as much as 10-1.However, the Virginia Supreme Court blocked the plan last week, ruling that Democratic lawmakers had failed to follow proper constitutional procedures in putting the referendum to voters. Now, the latest Supreme Court decision not to intervene lets that ruling stand.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/media-house-deletes-story-after-pm-modi-rare-fact-checks-foreign-travel-tax-report-totally-false-cnbc-tv18-shut-down-global-travel-panic-1778899536032">Media house deletes story after PM Modi fact-checks report on foreign travel tax: 'Totally false'</a><h2>Why does it matter?</h2>The fight in Virginia is just one front in a rapidly expanding national redistricting war. US President Donald Trump helped trigger the current cycle last year by encouraging Republican-led states, Texas chief among them, to redraw congressional maps mid-decade to maximise Republican seats. Democrats responded in kind in California, Virginia and other states they control.The conflict has taken on an additional dimension following a recent Supreme Court ruling barring race as a factor in drawing congressional districts. That decision has opened a new round of map-drawing in several Republican-majority states. Tennessee passed a new map last week that breaks up the state's only majority-Black district. South Carolina, Louisiana and Alabama are expected to pursue similar moves if pending legal challenges resolve in Republicans' favour.Notably, with control of the House expected to be decided by a handful of seats in November, each state-level redistricting decision carries national weight.&nbsp;

The US Supreme Court just handed Democrats a blunt setback, rejecting their bid to revive a game-changing Virginia map. Here's all you need to know.

The US Supreme Court on Friday (May 15) rejected an emergency appeal from Virginia Democrats seeking to revive a voter-approved redistricting plan that would have dramatically shifted the state's congressional delegation in their favour ahead of November's midterm elections. But why did the court deny the request? Here's all you need to know. Why did the SCOTUS deny democrats' appeal? The court offered no explanation for its decision, saying only in a written order that the application for a stay "is denied." This means that Virginia's existing congressional map now stands preserved. It also hands Republicans a significant procedural victory in what has become an increasingly aggressive national redistricting battle. Also read | Who is Padma Jaiswal? Why it took nearly two decades to dismiss the IAS officer for a 2007-08 offense | WION Explains Background: Virginia redistricting The backstory is layered. Virginia voters approved a referendum last month that would have allowed Democrats to redraw the state's congressional districts mid-decade, an unusual move outside the standard post-census redistricting cycle. Had the new maps taken effect, Democrats stood to expand their current 6-5 edge in Virginia's House delegation to as much as 10-1. However, the Virginia Supreme Court blocked the plan last week, ruling that Democratic lawmakers had failed to follow proper constitutional procedures in putting the referendum to voters. Now, the latest Supreme Court decision not to intervene lets that ruling stand. Also read | Media house deletes story after PM Modi fact-checks report on foreign travel tax: 'Totally false' Why does it matter? The fight in Virginia is just one front in a rapidly expanding national redistricting war. US President Donald Trump helped trigger the current cycle last year by encouraging Republican-led states, Texas chief among them, to redraw congressional maps mid-decade to maximise Republican seats. Democrats responded in kind in California, Virginia and other states they control. The conflict has taken on an additional dimension following a recent Supreme Court ruling barring race as a factor in drawing congressional districts. That decision has opened a new round of map-drawing in several Republican-majority states. Tennessee passed a new map last week that breaks up the state's only majority-Black district. South Carolina, Louisiana and Alabama are expected to pursue similar moves if pending legal challenges resolve in Republicans' favour. Notably, with control of the House expected to be decided by a handful of seats in November, each state-level redistricting decision carries national weight.

The US Supreme Court just handed Democrats a blunt setback, rejecting their bid to revive a game-changing Virginia map. Here's all you need to know.

Supreme Court blocks Virginia Democrats' redistricting plan, preserving Republican-drawn maps ahead of US midterms

India’s ₹3 fuel hike has sparked backlash, but the BJP argues that compared with the global fuel shock unleashed by the Iran war and Hormuz disruption, India’s increase is relatively small. How much of the world is already paying? Let’s break down the global context.

How does India's petrol, diesel price hike compare to global rates? BJP provides 'context' | In Pics

Who is Raul Castro? Explore the life, revolution, political rise and lasting influence of Cuba’s former president amid reports of a possible US indictment

Who is Raul Castro? Former Cuban president facing possible US indictment

A TikTok video reportedly shared by Donald Trump’s campaign was deleted after social media users noticed a spelling mistake involving Chinese President Xi Jinping’s name. According to The Mirror US, the clip showed Trump and Xi walking together on a red carpet during Trump’s recent state visit to China, which concluded on Friday (May 15) after meetings between the two leaders. The controversy centered on text added to the TikTok video. While Trump was identified as ‘President Trump’, Xi’s name reportedly appeared as ‘President Zi’, along with a handshake emoji between the two leaders. The video was later removed from TikTok, while screenshots continued circulating online after the X account Headquarters highlighted the typo.<h2>Social media reacts to ‘President Zi’ typo</h2>The mistake quickly sparked reactions across social media, with critics mocking the campaign over the apparent error. “It’s literally two letters. You had a 50/50 chance,” one user wrote on X after screenshots of the post spread online. Another commenter criticised what they described as repeated diplomatic mistakes, writing: “The incompetence of the ENTIRE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION is staggering.” Neither the Trump campaign nor TikTok publicly commented on the reported deletion or the typo.TikTok continues to face scrutiny in the United States over national security and data privacy concerns related to its Chinese ownership. Although Trump’s Republican administration has reportedly approved a potential sale arrangement involving TikTok, the process has not yet been finalised.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-tremendous-success-trump-after-returning-from-china-says-it-was-a-historic-moment-1778891146135">'Tremendous success': Trump after returning from China; says, 'It was a historic moment'</a><h2>Watch the post by White House here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The White House has deleted a TikTok after misspelling Xi Jinping’s name at a high-stakes China visit. <a href="https://t.co/xsSAljR3aM">pic.twitter.com/xsSAljR3aM</a>&mdash; Headquarters (@HQNewsNow) <a href="https://twitter.com/HQNewsNow/status/2054940340465852857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump’s China visit focused on key global issues</h2>The deleted TikTok video surfaced during Trump’s multi-day visit to China, where he met Xi for talks on Taiwan, Iran, and broader US-China relations. The two leaders held discussions at Zhongnanhai, the Chinese leadership compound in Beijing, before Trump departed aboard Air Force One. Despite the public display of diplomacy during the visit, tensions between Washington and Beijing remain over trade, regional security, and Taiwan. During remarks to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump also addressed ongoing discussions about TikTok’s future ownership structure in the United States. “I will decide,” Trump said when asked about the issue.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-reveals-scale-of-houthi-missile-network-iranian-weapon-parts-found-in-major-houthi-seizure-1778861783934/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-reveals-scale-of-houthi-missile-network-iranian-weapon-parts-found-in-major-houthi-seizure-1778861783934/embed</a>

A Trump campaign TikTok video was reportedly deleted after a typo labeled Chinese President Xi Jinping as 'President Zi', sparking online reactions

A TikTok video reportedly shared by Donald Trump’s campaign was deleted after social media users noticed a spelling mistake involving Chinese President Xi Jinping’s name. According to The Mirror US, the clip showed Trump and Xi walking together on a red carpet during Trump’s recent state visit to China, which concluded on Friday (May 15) after meetings between the two leaders. The controversy centered on text added to the TikTok video. While Trump was identified as ‘President Trump’, Xi’s name reportedly appeared as ‘President Zi’, along with a handshake emoji between the two leaders. The video was later removed from TikTok, while screenshots continued circulating online after the X account Headquarters highlighted the typo. Social media reacts to ‘President Zi’ typo The mistake quickly sparked reactions across social media, with critics mocking the campaign over the apparent error. “It’s literally two letters. You had a 50/50 chance,” one user wrote on X after screenshots of the post spread online. Another commenter criticised what they described as repeated diplomatic mistakes, writing: “The incompetence of the ENTIRE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION is staggering.” Neither the Trump campaign nor TikTok publicly commented on the reported deletion or the typo. TikTok continues to face scrutiny in the United States over national security and data privacy concerns related to its Chinese ownership. Although Trump’s Republican administration has reportedly approved a potential sale arrangement involving TikTok, the process has not yet been finalised. Also Read: 'Tremendous success': Trump after returning from China; says, 'It was a historic moment' Watch the post by White House here

The Trump campaign reportedly deleted a TikTok video after mistakenly misspelling Chinese President Xi Jinping as ‘President Zi’

'President Zi' blunder goes viral as Trump campaign mocked over TikTok typo during China visit

US President Donald Trump described his two-day summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping as a major success after returning to the White House. Speaking to reporters, Trump praised the outcome of the Beijing visit and highlighted progress on trade and diplomatic relations. Asked who gained more from the summit, Trump responded: “All I can say is, that was a great success. It was fantastic.” "We made great deals, we did great trade deals, we had great relationships. And a lot of things have happened, and you’ll be hearing about them," he added. "But that was a tremendous success."&nbsp;Despite Trump’s positive remarks, the United States and China did not announce any major breakthroughs on key issues such as Iran or Taiwan, both of which were discussed during the summit. Trump also said tariff discussions were absent from the talks with Xi, despite expectations that both leaders would address the future of the one-year tariff truce agreed upon during their previous meeting in South Korea. "We didn't discuss those... It wasn't brought up," Trump said when asked about tariffs.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-national-security-disaster-democrats-accuse-trump-of-corruption-over-stock-market-transactions-1778886634859">'National security disaster': Democrats accuse Trump of corruption over stock market transactions</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> arrives back at the White House: &quot;All I can say is that was a great success... We made great deals. We did great trade deals... A lot of things have happened and you&#39;ll be hearing about them — but that was a tremendous success. I think it really was a historic moment.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/dH5h5UtJFI">pic.twitter.com/dH5h5UtJFI</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2055425919234220304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The earlier truce had paused an intense trade war between the two economic powers, during which tariffs on several products climbed above 100 per cent. Trade conditions have since changed. Washington continued to maintain some tariffs linked to allegations surrounding China’s role in fentanyl supply chains and claims of unfair trade practices. In February, the US Supreme Court struck down several Trump-era duties, including measures tied to drug trafficking concerns. The White House later introduced a temporary 10-percent global tariff while pursuing investigations that could result in permanent duties.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wifi-willpower-gaza-s-online-workers-push-through-adversity-1778868974175/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wifi-willpower-gaza-s-online-workers-push-through-adversity-1778868974175/embed</a>&nbsp;The temporary tariff policy is also facing legal challenges in US courts. Trump arrived in Beijing earlier this week, aiming to secure agreements in sectors including agriculture, aviation, and artificial intelligence. After the first day of meetings, Trump claimed Xi had agreed to support efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and increase Chinese purchases of Boeing aircraft, American oil, and soybeans. However, no formal agreements have been announced, and China’s foreign ministry declined to confirm Trump’s statements during a press briefing on Friday.

Donald Trump hailed his summit with Xi Jinping as a 'tremendous success', despite no formal announcements on tariffs, Taiwan, Iran, or major US-China trade agreements

US President Donald Trump described his two-day summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping as a major success after returning to the White House. Speaking to reporters, Trump praised the outcome of the Beijing visit and highlighted progress on trade and diplomatic relations. Asked who gained more from the summit, Trump responded: “All I can say is, that was a great success. It was fantastic.” "We made great deals, we did great trade deals, we had great relationships. And a lot of things have happened, and you’ll be hearing about them," he added. "But that was a tremendous success." Despite Trump’s positive remarks, the United States and China did not announce any major breakthroughs on key issues such as Iran or Taiwan, both of which were discussed during the summit. Trump also said tariff discussions were absent from the talks with Xi, despite expectations that both leaders would address the future of the one-year tariff truce agreed upon during their previous meeting in South Korea. "We didn't discuss those... It wasn't brought up," Trump said when asked about tariffs. Also Read: 'National security disaster': Democrats accuse Trump of corruption over stock market transactions Watch the video here

Donald Trump says meeting with Xi Jinping was a ‘tremendous success’, but no major breakthroughs on tariffs, Taiwan, Iran, or trade deals were announced

'Tremendous success': Trump after returning from China; says, 'It was a historic moment'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Netherlands on Friday (May 15) evening as part of his multi-nation diplomatic tour focused on strengthening India’s strategic and economic partnerships across Europe. Announcing the Prime Minister’s arrival, Randhir Jaiswal posted on X: "Goedeavond Nederland! PM @narendramodi has arrived in the Netherlands. The visit will provide an opportunity to further strengthen the multifaceted India–Netherlands partnership and to engage with the largest Indian diaspora in mainland Europe."&nbsp;PM Modi also shared a message on X shortly after landing in Amsterdam. “Landed in Amsterdam. This visit to the Netherlands is taking place at a time when the free trade agreement between India and the European Union has given a significant boost to trade and investment relations. It offers the opportunity to strengthen ties in areas such as semiconductors, water, clean energy, and more.” The Prime Minister further said: "I will hold talks with Prime Minister Rob Jetten and pay a visit to Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima. I also look forward to addressing the community during an event on the morning of May 16."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-on-almost-all-matters-we-found-common-ground-despite-differences-mea-on-brics-1778873840071">'On almost all matters, we found common ground despite differences': MEA on BRICS</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | The Hague | Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives an enthusiastic welcome by the members of the Indian diaspora at the hotel he is staying at while on a visit to Netherlands. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Netherlands, on the second leg of his 5-nation visit.… <a href="https://t.co/BF5cdilX7T">pic.twitter.com/BF5cdilX7T</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2055372909263409189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

During his visit, Modi is expected to hold bilateral discussions with Rob Jetten in The Hague, with talks likely to focus on trade, investment, semiconductors, clean energy, water management, agriculture, defence cooperation, and emerging technologies. Officials said both sides are also expected to discuss climate action, green hydrogen, resilient supply chains, digital innovation, and maritime cooperation. The Netherlands continues to remain one of India’s major economic partners in Europe, supported by strong trade and investment relations. Rotterdam, one of Europe’s largest ports, also serves as a crucial gateway for Indian exports entering the European market. PM Modi is also scheduled to interact with members of the Indian diaspora, one of the largest Indian communities on mainland Europe.&nbsp;Members of the Indian community in the Netherlands expressed enthusiasm over the Prime Minister’s visit and highlighted India’s growth in recent years. "We are very excited. We have been living in the Netherlands for the last two years. We are happy to see such a large Indian community here. Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting us, and we are also planning to meet him," a member of the Indian diaspora told news agency IANS ahead of Modi’s arrival in The Hague.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-unleashes-brutal-double-tap-assault-russia-unleashes-47-missiles-1500-drones-1778871667115/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-unleashes-brutal-double-tap-assault-russia-unleashes-47-missiles-1500-drones-1778871667115/embed</a>&nbsp;Another community member said: “When I talk about partnership, I think there is already a very extraordinary partnership, with bilateral trade exceeding 28 billion euros and the Netherlands being the fourth-largest foreign direct investor in India.” The visit comes amid increasing engagement between India and European nations as New Delhi seeks to deepen strategic, technological, and economic cooperation with key partners in the region.

PM Narendra Modi visits the Netherlands for talks on trade, semiconductors, clean energy, investment, and India-Europe strategic cooperation

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Netherlands on Friday (May 15) evening as part of his multi-nation diplomatic tour focused on strengthening India’s strategic and economic partnerships across Europe. Announcing the Prime Minister’s arrival, Randhir Jaiswal posted on X: "Goedeavond Nederland! PM @narendramodi has arrived in the Netherlands. The visit will provide an opportunity to further strengthen the multifaceted India–Netherlands partnership and to engage with the largest Indian diaspora in mainland Europe." PM Modi also shared a message on X shortly after landing in Amsterdam. “Landed in Amsterdam. This visit to the Netherlands is taking place at a time when the free trade agreement between India and the European Union has given a significant boost to trade and investment relations. It offers the opportunity to strengthen ties in areas such as semiconductors, water, clean energy, and more.” The Prime Minister further said: "I will hold talks with Prime Minister Rob Jetten and pay a visit to Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima. I also look forward to addressing the community during an event on the morning of May 16." Also Read: 'On almost all matters, we found common ground despite differences': MEA on BRICS Watch the video here

PM Modi arrived in the Netherlands to boost India-Europe ties through talks on trade, semiconductors, clean energy, and innovation

WATCH | PM Modi lands in Netherlands to boost India-Europe strategic ties; key talks on trade, technology and energy

Democrats on Friday (May 15) accused Donald Trump of corruption following the disclosure of major stock market transactions carried out in his name, while his son Eric Trump denied any wrongdoing. "The President's corruption is a national security disaster," Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote on X. Warren specifically pointed to the purchase of shares in NVIDIA, the semiconductor giant known for producing advanced AI chips. Trump recently permitted Nvidia to continue selling products to China, a move that temporarily boosted the company’s stock price. "Trump brought the NVIDIA CEO on his trip to China to lobby (Chinese President) Xi Jinping to buy advanced AI chips, even though it would create a US national security threat," Warren also wrote. "It turns out Trump also bought millions in NVIDIA's stock."&nbsp;Eric Trump rejected the allegations and defended the family’s financial practices. "All of our assets are invested in a blind trust by the largest financial institutions in broad market indexes. To suggest that individual stocks are being bought or sold, at the discretion of any member of the Trump family, would be a lie and blatantly false," Eric Trump wrote on X. Although Eric Trump does not hold an official government position, he accompanied the president on his visit to China this week.Jensen Huang also joined the trip alongside the US delegation. Meanwhile, JB Pritzker sharply criticized Trump, calling him "the most corrupt president in American history" in a post on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-high-value-target-us-charges-iran-backed-militia-commander-over-plotting-attacks-on-jews-1778885764100">'High-value target': US charges Iran-backed militia commander over plotting attacks on Jewish sites</a>&nbsp;Since returning to the office, Trump has transferred management of the Trump Organization to his sons, though critics argue the administration has adopted looser ethical standards compared to his first term. During his previous presidency, Trump imposed a moratorium on the family’s foreign investments, but he did not renew the restriction after returning to power. The Trump Organization recently announced plans to build a hotel complex in Tbilisi, Georgia.&nbsp;Trump has also faced scrutiny for hosting diplomatic events at his private properties, further fueling concerns about conflicts of interest. Documents released Thursday under Trump’s name detailed financial transactions worth more than $200 million involving major corporations, including Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, and Boeing. According to Forbes, Trump’s personal fortune reached an estimated $6.5 billion in March 2026, marking an increase of $1.4 billion within a year.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sleep-too-much-your-organs-may-age-faster-oversleeping-could-be-speeding-up-ageing-1778870744536/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/sleep-too-much-your-organs-may-age-faster-oversleeping-could-be-speeding-up-ageing-1778870744536/embed</a>

Democrats accuse Donald Trump of corruption over disclosed stock trades involving Nvidia and major companies, while Eric Trump denies wrongdoing

Democrats on Friday (May 15) accused Donald Trump of corruption following the disclosure of major stock market transactions carried out in his name, while his son Eric Trump denied any wrongdoing. "The President's corruption is a national security disaster," Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote on X. Warren specifically pointed to the purchase of shares in NVIDIA, the semiconductor giant known for producing advanced AI chips. Trump recently permitted Nvidia to continue selling products to China, a move that temporarily boosted the company’s stock price. "Trump brought the NVIDIA CEO on his trip to China to lobby (Chinese President) Xi Jinping to buy advanced AI chips, even though it would create a US national security threat," Warren also wrote. "It turns out Trump also bought millions in NVIDIA's stock." Eric Trump rejected the allegations and defended the family’s financial practices. "All of our assets are invested in a blind trust by the largest financial institutions in broad market indexes. To suggest that individual stocks are being bought or sold, at the discretion of any member of the Trump family, would be a lie and blatantly false," Eric Trump wrote on X. Although Eric Trump does not hold an official government position, he accompanied the president on his visit to China this week. Jensen Huang also joined the trip alongside the US delegation. Meanwhile, JB Pritzker sharply criticized Trump, calling him "the most corrupt president in American history" in a post on X. Also Read: 'High-value target': US charges Iran-backed militia commander over plotting attacks on Jewish sites Since returning to the office, Trump has transferred management of the Trump Organization to his sons, though critics argue the administration has adopted looser ethical standards compared to his first term. During his previous presidency, Trump imposed a moratorium on the family’s foreign investments, but he did not renew the restriction after returning to power. The Trump Organization recently announced plans to build a hotel complex in Tbilisi, Georgia. Trump has also faced scrutiny for hosting diplomatic events at his private properties, further fueling concerns about conflicts of interest. Documents released Thursday under Trump’s name detailed financial transactions worth more than $200 million involving major corporations, including Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, and Boeing. According to Forbes, Trump’s personal fortune reached an estimated $6.5 billion in March 2026, marking an increase of $1.4 billion within a year. https://www.wionews.com/videos/sleep-too-much-your-organs-may-age-faster-oversleeping-could-be-speeding-up-ageing-1778870744536/embed

Democrats accused Donald Trump of corruption after the disclosure of major stock trades, while Eric Trump denied any improper conduct

'National security disaster': Democrats accuse Trump of corruption over stock market transactions

US authorities on Friday (May 15) announced charges against Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood Al-Saadi, an alleged commander of the Iran-backed militia Kataeb Hezbollah, accusing him of plotting terrorist attacks targeting Jewish communities in Europe, Canada, and the United States. Al-Saadi, 32, allegedly directed and encouraged attacks on US and Israeli interests and called for the killing of Americans and Jewish people in retaliation for the war involving Iran. US authorities identified him as a senior member of Kataeb Hezbollah, a US-designated foreign terrorist organization linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).&nbsp;Iran has previously faced accusations of attempting to orchestrate terrorist activities abroad, with several incidents reported since US-Israeli strikes on Iran began in late February. According to US court filings, Al-Saadi and unidentified associates allegedly planned, coordinated, and claimed responsibility for at least 18 terrorist attacks across Europe and two in Canada. "Those attacks appear to have been carried out both in retaliation for the United States and Israel's recent military actions against Iran and to compel the United States and Israel to halt those actions," a criminal complaint states.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-the-sofa-was-clearly-higher-here-s-how-social-media-reacted-to-trump-xi-viral-video-1778884955543">'The sofa was clearly higher': Here's how social media reacted to Trump-Xi viral video</a>&nbsp;Authorities cited multiple incidents, including the non-fatal stabbing of two Jewish men in London on April 29, along with arson attacks targeting synagogues, Israeli-owned businesses, and Jewish schools in Amsterdam, Munich, and other cities. While prosecutors did not clearly define Al-Saadi’s operational role, they alleged he shared propaganda videos of the attacks on social media after they occurred. Investigators also claimed that during a recorded phone call, Al-Saadi unknowingly told an FBI informant that he or his associates were involved in the European attacks, as well as two incidents in Canada. Authorities believe those incidents include the March 10 shooting at the US Consulate in Toronto, where no injuries were reported.<h2>‘High-value target’</h2>Al-Saadi is also accused of plotting attacks inside the United States, including plans targeting a synagogue in New York and Jewish centers in California and Arizona.According to prosecutors, he allegedly paid an undercover US agent a $3,000 advance payment to carry out the New York attack before an arrest warrant was issued.Kash Patel said on X that the FBI had arrested and brought Al-Saadi to the United States, describing him as a "high-value target responsible for mass global terrorism."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-war-causes-inflation-risks-india-hikes-retail-fuel-prices-1778870758198/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-war-causes-inflation-risks-india-hikes-retail-fuel-prices-1778870758198/embed</a>&nbsp;Al-Saadi appeared in a Manhattan court on Friday and faces six charges, including conspiracy to provide material support to Kataeb Hezbollah and the IRGC. He has also been charged with conspiring to support acts of terrorism and conspiring to bomb a public place. Kataeb Hezbollah is part of a pro-Iran network in Iraq that has repeatedly claimed responsibility for attacks on American targets in the Middle East.&nbsp;The United States previously blamed the group for the December 2020 attack on an Iraqi military base housing US troops that killed an American contractor. The incident sharply escalated tensions and ultimately led to the US drone strike in Baghdad that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. Kataeb Hezbollah was also accused of kidnapping American journalist Shelly Kittleson for several days in March 2026 during heightened conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

US authorities charged Kataeb Hezbollah commander Mohammad Al-Saadi over alleged terror plots targeting Jewish communities in Europe, Canada, and the US

US authorities on Friday (May 15) announced charges against Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood Al-Saadi, an alleged commander of the Iran-backed militia Kataeb Hezbollah, accusing him of plotting terrorist attacks targeting Jewish communities in Europe, Canada, and the United States. Al-Saadi, 32, allegedly directed and encouraged attacks on US and Israeli interests and called for the killing of Americans and Jewish people in retaliation for the war involving Iran. US authorities identified him as a senior member of Kataeb Hezbollah, a US-designated foreign terrorist organization linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Iran has previously faced accusations of attempting to orchestrate terrorist activities abroad, with several incidents reported since US-Israeli strikes on Iran began in late February. According to US court filings, Al-Saadi and unidentified associates allegedly planned, coordinated, and claimed responsibility for at least 18 terrorist attacks across Europe and two in Canada. "Those attacks appear to have been carried out both in retaliation for the United States and Israel's recent military actions against Iran and to compel the United States and Israel to halt those actions," a criminal complaint states. Also Read: 'The sofa was clearly higher': Here's how social media reacted to Trump-Xi viral video Authorities cited multiple incidents, including the non-fatal stabbing of two Jewish men in London on April 29, along with arson attacks targeting synagogues, Israeli-owned businesses, and Jewish schools in Amsterdam, Munich, and other cities. While prosecutors did not clearly define Al-Saadi’s operational role, they alleged he shared propaganda videos of the attacks on social media after they occurred. Investigators also claimed that during a recorded phone call, Al-Saadi unknowingly told an FBI informant that he or his associates were involved in the European attacks, as well as two incidents in Canada. Authorities believe those incidents include the March 10 shooting at the US Consulate in Toronto, where no injuries were reported. ‘High-value target’ Al-Saadi is also accused of plotting attacks inside the United States, including plans targeting a synagogue in New York and Jewish centers in California and Arizona. According to prosecutors, he allegedly paid an undercover US agent a $3,000 advance payment to carry out the New York attack before an arrest warrant was issued. Kash Patel said on X that the FBI had arrested and brought Al-Saadi to the United States, describing him as a "high-value target responsible for mass global terrorism." https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-war-causes-inflation-risks-india-hikes-retail-fuel-prices-1778870758198/embed Al-Saadi appeared in a Manhattan court on Friday and faces six charges, including conspiracy to provide material support to Kataeb Hezbollah and the IRGC. He has also been charged with conspiring to support acts of terrorism and conspiring to bomb a public place. Kataeb Hezbollah is part of a pro-Iran network in Iraq that has repeatedly claimed responsibility for attacks on American targets in the Middle East. The United States previously blamed the group for the December 2020 attack on an Iraqi military base housing US troops that killed an American contractor. The incident sharply escalated tensions and ultimately led to the US drone strike in Baghdad that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. Kataeb Hezbollah was also accused of kidnapping American journalist Shelly Kittleson for several days in March 2026 during heightened conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

US charges Iran-backed militia commander over alleged terror plots targeting Jews, synagogues, and US-linked sites in Europe and America

'High-value target': US charges Iran-backed militia commander over plotting attacks on Jewish sites

A video from a meeting between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump in Beijing has gone viral on social media, sparking debate over whether Trump was intentionally made to appear shorter during the talks. The clip, widely circulated on X and other platforms, shows Xi seated on what users claim appears to be a slightly taller sofa than Trump’s during the bilateral meeting. “The sofa must be custom-made. The sofa Xi Jinping sat on was clearly higher than Trump’s sofa, while Trump is 10 cm taller than Xi Jinping. The CCP spares no effort in scheming over these details,” one X user claimed while sharing the video.&nbsp;Another viral post suggested a different version of events, claiming Trump removed a cushion from his own seat. “The Chinese president measured it out to the centimeter by placing a small cushion on Trump’s chair so that they would appear to be the same height. Trump ordered the cushion to be removed... which made him look shorter than the Chinese president while sitting,” the post said. Trump was visiting China on a three-day official trip at Xi’s invitation, marking the first visit to China by a sitting US president in nine years. The US president departed China on Friday after highlighting several business agreements reached during the visit, even as Beijing cautioned Washington against mishandling the Taiwan issue and criticised the Iran war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-on-almost-all-matters-we-found-common-ground-despite-differences-mea-on-brics-1778873840071">'On almost all matters, we found common ground despite differences': MEA on BRICS</a><h2>‘You wouldn’t find a guy like him in Hollywood’: Trump praises Xi</h2>“We’ve settled a lot of different problems that other people wouldn’t have been able to solve,” Trump said after meeting Xi in Beijing during the second day of talks.Social media platforms have since been flooded with memes, clips, and commentary from Trump’s visit to China. In another widely shared video, Xi pauses briefly while walking beside Trump up the stairs at the Great Hall of the People. “During the walk up to the Great Hall of the People, Xi Jinping noticed Trump appeared tired on the stairs, so he paused and gave a brief explanation of the square, allowing him a moment to catch his breath,” a post accompanying the video claimed.&nbsp;Earlier reports also alleged that Trump, who has repeatedly said he does not consume alcohol, was served wine during a ceremonial toast in China. On Friday, Trump praised Xi’s leadership and stature while speaking about the Chinese president. “You wouldn’t find a guy like him in Hollywood,” Trump said while lauding Xi. “They always criticize me when I say good things about certain leaders, and this one, but... he's led almost 1.5 billion people for a long time, and he's respected,” Trump added. Trump also commented on Xi’s physical appearance, describing him as “very tall” and suggesting Hollywood would struggle to find an actor capable of portraying him convincingly on screen.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/explosions-in-bolivian-capital-as-protesters-and-police-engage-in-clashes-1778865385016/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/explosions-in-bolivian-capital-as-protesters-and-police-engage-in-clashes-1778865385016/embed</a>

Viral videos from Donald Trump and Xi Jinping’s Beijing meeting spark online debate over sofa height, body language, diplomacy, and Trump’s praise for Xi

A video from a meeting between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump in Beijing has gone viral on social media, sparking debate over whether Trump was intentionally made to appear shorter during the talks. The clip, widely circulated on X and other platforms, shows Xi seated on what users claim appears to be a slightly taller sofa than Trump’s during the bilateral meeting. “The sofa must be custom-made. The sofa Xi Jinping sat on was clearly higher than Trump’s sofa, while Trump is 10 cm taller than Xi Jinping. The CCP spares no effort in scheming over these details,” one X user claimed while sharing the video. Another viral post suggested a different version of events, claiming Trump removed a cushion from his own seat. “The Chinese president measured it out to the centimeter by placing a small cushion on Trump’s chair so that they would appear to be the same height. Trump ordered the cushion to be removed... which made him look shorter than the Chinese president while sitting,” the post said. Trump was visiting China on a three-day official trip at Xi’s invitation, marking the first visit to China by a sitting US president in nine years. The US president departed China on Friday after highlighting several business agreements reached during the visit, even as Beijing cautioned Washington against mishandling the Taiwan issue and criticised the Iran war. Also Read: 'On almost all matters, we found common ground despite differences': MEA on BRICS ‘You wouldn’t find a guy like him in Hollywood’: Trump praises Xi “We’ve settled a lot of different problems that other people wouldn’t have been able to solve,” Trump said after meeting Xi in Beijing during the second day of talks. Social media platforms have since been flooded with memes, clips, and commentary from Trump’s visit to China. In another widely shared video, Xi pauses briefly while walking beside Trump up the stairs at the Great Hall of the People. “During the walk up to the Great Hall of the People, Xi Jinping noticed Trump appeared tired on the stairs, so he paused and gave a brief explanation of the square, allowing him a moment to catch his breath,” a post accompanying the video claimed. Earlier reports also alleged that Trump, who has repeatedly said he does not consume alcohol, was served wine during a ceremonial toast in China. On Friday, Trump praised Xi’s leadership and stature while speaking about the Chinese president. “You wouldn’t find a guy like him in Hollywood,” Trump said while lauding Xi. “They always criticize me when I say good things about certain leaders, and this one, but... he's led almost 1.5 billion people for a long time, and he's respected,” Trump added. Trump also commented on Xi’s physical appearance, describing him as “very tall” and suggesting Hollywood would struggle to find an actor capable of portraying him convincingly on screen. https://www.wionews.com/videos/explosions-in-bolivian-capital-as-protesters-and-police-engage-in-clashes-1778865385016/embed

Viral videos from Donald Trump’s China visit sparked online debate over Xi Jinping’s sofa height, stairway moments, and diplomatic optics

'The sofa was clearly higher': Here's how social media reacted to Trump-Xi viral video

Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs, on Friday (May 15) said BRICS members found common ground on almost all issues across the three pillars of cooperation during the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Addressing a special media briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs, Dalela said the outcome document reflects a shared position on global economic governance reforms. "Regarding the first question about the result of this meeting: as I mentioned, we have an Outcome Document posted online which contains 63 paragraphs. As Chair, it is our responsibility to facilitate dialogue among all members. I am happy to share that on almost all matters across the three verticals of our partnership, we found common ground," he said.&nbsp;Dalela said that the comprehensive outcome document is a positive step for the grouping. "The fact that we have a strong outcome document covering global governance, agriculture, health, the UNSC, and terrorism is very positive. The document reflects a common position on the reform of global economic governance, the condemnation of terrorism, climate change, and human-centric AI. I would request everyone to study this document carefully. It provides a very good basis for our preparation for the summit in the second half of this year. We have more than 20 thematic ministerial tracks coming up, which will feed into the summit. I am confident we will continue to build consensus," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-totally-false-pm-modi-dismisses-media-report-on-proposed-foreign-travel-tax-1778868159313">‘Totally false’: PM Modi dismisses media report on proposed foreign travel tax</a>&nbsp;Speaking on West Asia, Dalela acknowledged that some members expressed differing opinions but stressed that diplomacy remained central to discussions. "Regarding the situation in West Asia, there was a frank and candid sharing of assessments. It is a fact that there were differing views among some members regarding that specific situation. However, the members shared perspectives, including the need for an early resolution of the crisis, the value of diplomacy, respect for sovereignty, and the importance of safe maritime commerce. As Chair, we reflected these views transparently. While there were some differing perspectives on regional elements, we managed to build consensus on nearly everything else. We will continue to engage through the Sherpa channel to find common ground on the remaining issues," he said.&nbsp;On Palestine, Dalela reiterated BRICS’ long-standing position supporting a sovereign Palestinian state. "Regarding the question of Palestine, BRICS has had a very coherent and clear view. If you look at previous declarations, we have maintained a common stance. The ministers candidly discussed this and articulated that common view again, calling for the creation of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. I don't see this as a departure, but rather a reflection of BRICS countries expressing a collective view," he said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-tehran-threatens-to-enrich-uranium-to-weapons-grade-if-attacked-1778861748246/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-tehran-threatens-to-enrich-uranium-to-weapons-grade-if-attacked-1778861748246/embed</a>&nbsp;He also highlighted concerns over unilateral tariffs and their impact on developing nations. "Regarding the question on trade and unilateral tariffs (Paragraph 42), there was a discussion on the global economic outlook and concerns regarding unilateral measures and their disproportionate impact on developing countries. Our focus remains on a rule-based, non-discriminatory, and inclusive multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core," he said.&nbsp;The BRICS Chair’s Statement and Outcome Document noted the growing global polarization and distrust while urging collective international efforts to strengthen peace and security. Ministers emphasized resolving international disputes through dialogue, consultation, diplomacy, and preventive measures under the framework of the UN Charter. The statement also highlighted the importance of mediation, regional cooperation, peacekeeping missions, and conflict prevention initiatives to ensure the peaceful settlement of crises.

BRICS Foreign Ministers reached a broad consensus on global governance reforms, terrorism, Palestine, trade, and diplomacy, says MEA Secretary Sudhakar Dalela

Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs, on Friday (May 15) said BRICS members found common ground on almost all issues across the three pillars of cooperation during the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Addressing a special media briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs, Dalela said the outcome document reflects a shared position on global economic governance reforms. "Regarding the first question about the result of this meeting: as I mentioned, we have an Outcome Document posted online which contains 63 paragraphs. As Chair, it is our responsibility to facilitate dialogue among all members. I am happy to share that on almost all matters across the three verticals of our partnership, we found common ground," he said. Dalela said that the comprehensive outcome document is a positive step for the grouping. "The fact that we have a strong outcome document covering global governance, agriculture, health, the UNSC, and terrorism is very positive. The document reflects a common position on the reform of global economic governance, the condemnation of terrorism, climate change, and human-centric AI. I would request everyone to study this document carefully. It provides a very good basis for our preparation for the summit in the second half of this year. We have more than 20 thematic ministerial tracks coming up, which will feed into the summit. I am confident we will continue to build consensus," he said. Also Read: ‘Totally false’: PM Modi dismisses media report on proposed foreign travel tax Speaking on West Asia, Dalela acknowledged that some members expressed differing opinions but stressed that diplomacy remained central to discussions. "Regarding the situation in West Asia, there was a frank and candid sharing of assessments. It is a fact that there were differing views among some members regarding that specific situation. However, the members shared perspectives, including the need for an early resolution of the crisis, the value of diplomacy, respect for sovereignty, and the importance of safe maritime commerce. As Chair, we reflected these views transparently. While there were some differing perspectives on regional elements, we managed to build consensus on nearly everything else. We will continue to engage through the Sherpa channel to find common ground on the remaining issues," he said. On Palestine, Dalela reiterated BRICS’ long-standing position supporting a sovereign Palestinian state. "Regarding the question of Palestine, BRICS has had a very coherent and clear view. If you look at previous declarations, we have maintained a common stance. The ministers candidly discussed this and articulated that common view again, calling for the creation of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. I don't see this as a departure, but rather a reflection of BRICS countries expressing a collective view," he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-tehran-threatens-to-enrich-uranium-to-weapons-grade-if-attacked-1778861748246/embed He also highlighted concerns over unilateral tariffs and their impact on developing nations. "Regarding the question on trade and unilateral tariffs (Paragraph 42), there was a discussion on the global economic outlook and concerns regarding unilateral measures and their disproportionate impact on developing countries. Our focus remains on a rule-based, non-discriminatory, and inclusive multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core," he said. The BRICS Chair’s Statement and Outcome Document noted the growing global polarization and distrust while urging collective international efforts to strengthen peace and security. Ministers emphasized resolving international disputes through dialogue, consultation, diplomacy, and preventive measures under the framework of the UN Charter. The statement also highlighted the importance of mediation, regional cooperation, peacekeeping missions, and conflict prevention initiatives to ensure the peaceful settlement of crises.

BRICS members reached a consensus on global governance, trade, terrorism, and Palestine despite differing views on West Asia

'On almost all matters, we found common ground despite differences': MEA on BRICS

Nakba Day, observed on 15 May, marks the tragedy of the 1948 mass displacement and deprivation of Palestinians. Today, as Gaza grapples with a humanitarian crisis, the day takes on renewed significance.

78th Nakba Day: Remembering the tragedy shadowed by the Gaza crisis

Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to undertake a state visit to the United States this autumn at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said after the conclusion of a high-profile summit in Beijing.&nbsp;“Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to the United States in autumn this year at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, the Chinese top diplomat said on Friday,” Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported.&nbsp;The announcement came hours after Trump departed China following a two-day visit that saw the two leaders engage in extensive talks on trade, tariffs, agriculture and geopolitical tensions in West Asia.&nbsp;During the summit, Trump was hosted with ceremonial engagements including a visit to Beijing’s Temple of Heaven and a traditional tea session with Xi, as both sides attempted to stabilise ties between the world’s two largest economies.&nbsp;China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the two countries had agreed to continue implementing previous understandings reached during earlier negotiations.&nbsp;“The delegations of the two countries reached overall positive results, including continuing to implement all consensus reached in previous consultations (and) agreeing to establish a trade council and an investment council,” Wang said, according to a statement issued by the Chinese foreign ministry.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-totally-false-pm-modi-dismisses-media-report-on-proposed-foreign-travel-tax-1778868159313">‘Totally false’: PM Modi dismisses media report on proposed foreign travel tax</a>US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had earlier told CNBC that Washington and Beijing were discussing the formation of a bilateral “board of trade” and “board of investment” to deepen economic coordination.&nbsp;The two sides also agreed to address concerns related to agricultural market access and expand bilateral trade through reciprocal tariff reductions, Wang added.&nbsp;The renewed diplomatic engagement comes amid an ongoing trade truce between China and the United States reached in October last year. Under the arrangement, both countries agreed to sharply reduce tariffs on each other’s goods after duties had crossed the 100 per cent mark during the prolonged trade dispute.

The announcement came after Trump touted “fantastic trade deals” and hinted at Chinese purchases of US soybeans and aircraft, though neither side has released official details.



Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to undertake a state visit to the United States this autumn at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said after the conclusion of a high-profile summit in Beijing. “Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to the United States in autumn this year at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, the Chinese top diplomat said on Friday,” Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported. The announcement came hours after Trump departed China following a two-day visit that saw the two leaders engage in extensive talks on trade, tariffs, agriculture and geopolitical tensions in West Asia. During the summit, Trump was hosted with ceremonial engagements including a visit to Beijing’s Temple of Heaven and a traditional tea session with Xi, as both sides attempted to stabilise ties between the world’s two largest economies. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the two countries had agreed to continue implementing previous understandings reached during earlier negotiations. “The delegations of the two countries reached overall positive results, including continuing to implement all consensus reached in previous consultations (and) agreeing to establish a trade council and an investment council,” Wang said, according to a statement issued by the Chinese foreign ministry. Also Read: ‘Totally false’: PM Modi dismisses media report on proposed foreign travel tax US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had earlier told CNBC that Washington and Beijing were discussing the formation of a bilateral “board of trade” and “board of investment” to deepen economic coordination. The two sides also agreed to address concerns related to agricultural market access and expand bilateral trade through reciprocal tariff reductions, Wang added. The renewed diplomatic engagement comes amid an ongoing trade truce between China and the United States reached in October last year. Under the arrangement, both countries agreed to sharply reduce tariffs on each other’s goods after duties had crossed the 100 per cent mark during the prolonged trade dispute.

The announcement came after Trump touted “fantastic trade deals” and hinted at Chinese purchases of US soybeans and aircraft, though neither side has released official details.

Xi Jinping to visit US in autumn after Trump’s Beijing summit: State media

The US State Department announced Friday a 45-day extension of the porous ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, following two days of intensive, mediated talks held in Washington.The announcement comes despite a surge in cross-border violence and reports of heavy casualties, as the previous truce agreement neared its expiration on Sunday. "The April 16 cessation of hostilities will be extended by 45 days to enable further progress," said State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott.Describing the latest third round of direct negotiations as “highly productive,” Pigott confirmed that the political track will reconvene on June 2 and 3, while a parallel security track involving military delegations will launch at the Pentagon on May 29.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-war-causes-inflation-risks-india-hikes-retail-fuel-prices-1778870758198/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-war-causes-inflation-risks-india-hikes-retail-fuel-prices-1778870758198/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The diplomatic breakthrough stands in stark contrast to the volatile situation on the ground. The Israeli military maintained it was targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces have established a massive buffer zone. The military asserted that operations only proceeded after instructing residents of neighbouring villages and eastern towns to evacuate.However, Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported intense Israeli airstrikes hitting sections of the south and east, including several areas completely uncovered by the evacuation warnings. The escalation follows a grim assessment from the Lebanese health ministry, which reported that intense raids a day prior killed 22 people, including eight children.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-and-lebanon-hold-fresh-round-of-talks-in-us-ceasefire-deadline-looms-1778778683363/amp">Israel and Lebanon hold fresh round of talks in US ceasefire deadline looms</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, retaliatory actions continued to breach Israeli territory. As reported by the news agency AFP, a Hezbollah drone fell inside Israel, leaving several civilians injured. Hezbollah has consistently targeted Israeli forces in the south, claiming justification due to the ongoing military presence on Lebanese soil.&nbsp;While US law mandates providing defensive weaponry to Israel, Washington has historically utilised strategic ambiguity regarding direct military intervention. The primary roadblock remains the status of Hezbollah; US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have reiterated that a permanent peace framework remains contingent on the full restoration of Lebanese state authority and the complete disarmament of the group.&nbsp;Despite the fragile nature of the current truce, Washington hopes the 45-day window will advance a framework for lasting border delineation, sovereign integrity, and humanitarian reconstruction.

The US State Department has announced a 45-day extension of the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire following intense mediated talks in Washington.

The US State Department announced Friday a 45-day extension of the porous ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, following two days of intensive, mediated talks held in Washington.The announcement comes despite a surge in cross-border violence and reports of heavy casualties, as the previous truce agreement neared its expiration on Sunday. "The April 16 cessation of hostilities will be extended by 45 days to enable further progress," said State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott.Describing the latest third round of direct negotiations as “highly productive,” Pigott confirmed that the political track will reconvene on June 2 and 3, while a parallel security track involving military delegations will launch at the Pentagon on May 29. https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-war-causes-inflation-risks-india-hikes-retail-fuel-prices-1778870758198/embed The diplomatic breakthrough stands in stark contrast to the volatile situation on the ground. The Israeli military maintained it was targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces have established a massive buffer zone. The military asserted that operations only proceeded after instructing residents of neighbouring villages and eastern towns to evacuate. However, Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported intense Israeli airstrikes hitting sections of the south and east, including several areas completely uncovered by the evacuation warnings. The escalation follows a grim assessment from the Lebanese health ministry, which reported that intense raids a day prior killed 22 people, including eight children. Also read: Israel and Lebanon hold fresh round of talks in US ceasefire deadline looms Meanwhile, retaliatory actions continued to breach Israeli territory. As reported by the news agency AFP, a Hezbollah drone fell inside Israel, leaving several civilians injured. Hezbollah has consistently targeted Israeli forces in the south, claiming justification due to the ongoing military presence on Lebanese soil. While US law mandates providing defensive weaponry to Israel, Washington has historically utilised strategic ambiguity regarding direct military intervention. The primary roadblock remains the status of Hezbollah; US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have reiterated that a permanent peace framework remains contingent on the full restoration of Lebanese state authority and the complete disarmament of the group. Despite the fragile nature of the current truce, Washington hopes the 45-day window will advance a framework for lasting border delineation, sovereign integrity, and humanitarian reconstruction.

The US State Department has announced a 45-day extension of the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire following intense mediated talks in Washington.

US announces 45-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire extension amid fresh strikes

The UAE on Friday (May 15) categorically rejected "attempts to justify Iranian terrorist attacks" after Tehran accused the Gulf nation of playing an active role in the Middle East war. In a foreign ministry statement, Minister of State Khalifa bin Shaheen Al Marar affirmed the UAE's rejection of Iranian claims and justifications for "terrorist attacks targeting the UAE" and other nations.The diplomatic clash follows Thursday's BRICS meeting in New Delhi, where Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated in a Telegram post that "the UAE is an active partner in this aggression, and there is no doubt about it."&nbsp;According to a statement carried by the Iranian state news agency IRNA, Araghchi said he "advised the representative of the UAE that the Zionist regime (Israel) and the United States cannot guarantee their security" and added that Abu Dhabi had "seen the consequences of the presence of American bases" on its territory.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fm-says-strait-of-hormuz-open-to-all-vessels-except-nations-at-war-with-us-says-tehran-has-no-trust-in-us-1778839987625">Iran FM says Strait of Hormuz open to all vessels except nations 'at war with us'; says Tehran has 'no trust in US'</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In response, the UAE statement noted that the country has been "subjected to repeated and unjustified Iranian terrorist attacks," detailing approximately 3,000 strikes involving ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-fm-araghchi-says-tehran-never-wanted-nuclear-weapons-says-enriched-uranium-issue-postponed-in-us-talk-1778842632157">Iranian FM Araghchi says Tehran 'never wanted nuclear weapons', says enriched uranium issue postponed in US talks</a>&nbsp;"The UAE reserves all its sovereign, legal, diplomatic, and military rights to confront any threat, claim, or hostile act," Marar was quoted as saying. He further emphasised that the nation "does not seek protection from anyone and is capable of deterring aggression," adding that the UAE maintains its "full and legitimate right to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity to ensure the protection of its citizens, residents, and visitors."

The UAE has strongly rejected Iran's claims of war complicity, condemning Tehran’s attempts to justify over 3,000 missile and drone attacks.

The UAE on Friday (May 15) categorically rejected "attempts to justify Iranian terrorist attacks" after Tehran accused the Gulf nation of playing an active role in the Middle East war. In a foreign ministry statement, Minister of State Khalifa bin Shaheen Al Marar affirmed the UAE's rejection of Iranian claims and justifications for "terrorist attacks targeting the UAE" and other nations. The diplomatic clash follows Thursday's BRICS meeting in New Delhi, where Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated in a Telegram post that "the UAE is an active partner in this aggression, and there is no doubt about it." According to a statement carried by the Iranian state news agency IRNA, Araghchi said he "advised the representative of the UAE that the Zionist regime (Israel) and the United States cannot guarantee their security" and added that Abu Dhabi had "seen the consequences of the presence of American bases" on its territory. Also read: Iran FM says Strait of Hormuz open to all vessels except nations 'at war with us'; says Tehran has 'no trust in US' In response, the UAE statement noted that the country has been "subjected to repeated and unjustified Iranian terrorist attacks," detailing approximately 3,000 strikes involving ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. Also read: Iranian FM Araghchi says Tehran 'never wanted nuclear weapons', says enriched uranium issue postponed in US talks "The UAE reserves all its sovereign, legal, diplomatic, and military rights to confront any threat, claim, or hostile act," Marar was quoted as saying. He further emphasised that the nation "does not seek protection from anyone and is capable of deterring aggression," adding that the UAE maintains its "full and legitimate right to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity to ensure the protection of its citizens, residents, and visitors."

The UAE has strongly rejected Iran's claims of war complicity, condemning Tehran’s attempts to justify over 3,000 missile and drone attacks.

UAE denounces Iranian claims of war complicity, cites 3,000 missile strikes

President Donald Trump on Friday (May 15) cautioned Taiwan against declaring formal independence following a state visit to China, during which Chinese President Xi Jinping pressed him to withhold US support from the self-ruling island. Concluding his trip, Trump claimed to have brokered "fantastic" trade deals, though details remained vague, and he appeared to secure no breakthrough regarding his stalemated war on Iran. However, signalling a mutual desire for stability in the turbulent relationship between the world's two largest economies, Trump invited Xi to Washington for a reciprocal visit in September.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-china-urges-lasting-west-asia-truce-reopening-of-shipping-lanes-1778849147327/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-china-urges-lasting-west-asia-truce-reopening-of-shipping-lanes-1778849147327/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Addressing a core issue for the Chinese leader, Trump explicitly stated his opposition to a Taiwanese independence declaration and questioned whether the United States should defend the island if it were attacked. "I'm not looking to have somebody go independent. And, you know, we're supposed to travel 9,500 miles to fight a war. I'm not looking for that," Trump said in an interview with Fox News host Bret Baier. "I want them to cool down. I want China to cool down. We're not looking to have wars, and if you kept it the way it is, I think China's going to be OK with that."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-says-chinese-president-signalled-jimmy-lai-s-release-unlikely-who-is-the-jailed-hong-kong-media-mogul-1778851727550">Trump says Chinese President signalled Jimmy Lai’s release unlikely — Who is the jailed Hong Kong media mogul?</a>&nbsp;While the US recognises only Beijing and does not support formal independence for Taiwan, it has historically stopped short of explicitly stating opposition to it. Furthermore, though US law mandates providing weapons to Taiwan for its defence, Washington has traditionally maintained strategic ambiguity regarding whether US forces would directly intervene. The warnings follow an opening caution from Xi at the start of the summit, who told Trump that missteps on the highly sensitive issue could push the two nations into "conflict." Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te maintains that the island is already independent, rendering a formal declaration unnecessary.

Donald Trump explicitly opposes Taiwan independence after a high-stakes China visit, questioning if US forces should defend the island from Beijing.

President Donald Trump on Friday (May 15) cautioned Taiwan against declaring formal independence following a state visit to China, during which Chinese President Xi Jinping pressed him to withhold US support from the self-ruling island. Concluding his trip, Trump claimed to have brokered "fantastic" trade deals, though details remained vague, and he appeared to secure no breakthrough regarding his stalemated war on Iran. However, signalling a mutual desire for stability in the turbulent relationship between the world's two largest economies, Trump invited Xi to Washington for a reciprocal visit in September. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-china-urges-lasting-west-asia-truce-reopening-of-shipping-lanes-1778849147327/embed Addressing a core issue for the Chinese leader, Trump explicitly stated his opposition to a Taiwanese independence declaration and questioned whether the United States should defend the island if it were attacked. "I'm not looking to have somebody go independent. And, you know, we're supposed to travel 9,500 miles to fight a war. I'm not looking for that," Trump said in an interview with Fox News host Bret Baier. "I want them to cool down. I want China to cool down. We're not looking to have wars, and if you kept it the way it is, I think China's going to be OK with that." Also read: Trump says Chinese President signalled Jimmy Lai’s release unlikely — Who is the jailed Hong Kong media mogul? While the US recognises only Beijing and does not support formal independence for Taiwan, it has historically stopped short of explicitly stating opposition to it. Furthermore, though US law mandates providing weapons to Taiwan for its defence, Washington has traditionally maintained strategic ambiguity regarding whether US forces would directly intervene. The warnings follow an opening caution from Xi at the start of the summit, who told Trump that missteps on the highly sensitive issue could push the two nations into "conflict." Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te maintains that the island is already independent, rendering a formal declaration unnecessary.

Donald Trump explicitly opposes Taiwan independence after a high-stakes China visit, questioning if US forces should defend the island from Beijing.

Trump warns Taiwan against independence after high-stakes meeting with Xi

In a striking display of security caution at the close of US President Donald Trump’s visit to China, American officials reportedly disposed of all items handed out by Chinese authorities before boarding Air Force One on Friday (May 15).&nbsp;According to the White House press pool, US staff collected all materials distributed by Chinese officials during the visit, including press credentials, delegation pins, and burner phones issued to White House personnel, and discarded them in a bin near the aircraft stairs before departure, The Hill reported.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-ug-paper-leak-case-cbi-arrests-kingpin-chemistry-professor-from-pune-1778853540362">NEET-UG paper leak case: CBI arrests ‘kingpin’ chemistry professor from Pune</a>&nbsp;Emily Goodin, White House correspondent for the New York Post, on X said, “American staff took everything Chinese officials handed out, credentials, burner phones from WH staff, pins for delegation, collected them before we got on AF1 and threw them in a bin at the bottom of the stairs. Nothing from China is allowed on the plane. We’re taking off shortly for America.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">American staff took everything Chinese officials handed out - credentials, burner phones from WH staff, pins for delegation - collected them before we got on AF1 and threw them in a bin at bottom at stairs. Nothing from China allowed on the plane. We’re taking off shortly for…&mdash; Emily Goodin (@Emilylgoodin) <a href="https://twitter.com/Emilylgoodin/status/2055174015816474724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While public appearances between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping projected a cordial atmosphere, tensions reportedly surfaced behind the scenes between American and Chinese media and security personnel covering the high-stakes summit in Beijing.At one stage, a US Secret Service agent assigned to the travelling American press pool was reportedly stopped from entering Beijing’s Temple of Heaven during Trump’s meeting with Xi because the agent was carrying a firearm, part of standard US presidential security protocol. Further complications emerged during Trump’s departure from Beijing, when Chinese officials allegedly prevented members of the US press pool from joining the presidential motorcade to follow the president. Reporters travelling with the delegation said US aides accompanying the media were eventually forced to push through security barriers to regain access and continue coverage of the departure proceedings.

According to the White House press pool, US staff collected all materials distributed by Chinese officials during the visit, including credentials, delegation pins and burner phones.

In a striking display of security caution at the close of US President Donald Trump’s visit to China, American officials reportedly disposed of all items handed out by Chinese authorities before boarding Air Force One on Friday (May 15). According to the White House press pool, US staff collected all materials distributed by Chinese officials during the visit, including press credentials, delegation pins, and burner phones issued to White House personnel, and discarded them in a bin near the aircraft stairs before departure, The Hill reported. Also Read: NEET-UG paper leak case: CBI arrests ‘kingpin’ chemistry professor from Pune Emily Goodin, White House correspondent for the New York Post, on X said, “American staff took everything Chinese officials handed out, credentials, burner phones from WH staff, pins for delegation, collected them before we got on AF1 and threw them in a bin at the bottom of the stairs. Nothing from China is allowed on the plane. We’re taking off shortly for America.”

According to the White House press pool, US staff collected all materials distributed by Chinese officials during the visit, including credentials, delegation pins and burner phones.

Trump team dumped Chinese-issued phones, badges before boarding Air Force One in Beijing, claims US journalist

A two-day meeting of BRICS foreign ministers ended in deadlock on Friday (May 15), failing to produce a unified joint statement after sharp divisions erupted over the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran.The diplomatic impasse forced host nation India, which holds the 2026 BRICS chair, to release only a “chair’s statement and outcome document” rather than a traditional joint communique, news agency Reuters reported. The document explicitly acknowledged that “there were differing views among some members as regards the situation in the West Asia/Middle East region.” The fracture highlights the structural friction within the expanded 10-member bloc, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, and recent inductees Iran and the United Arab Emirates as it struggles to maintain a cohesive geopolitical identity amidst active conflict.&nbsp;At Bharat Mandapam, Iran condemned and termed acts by the US and Israel "unlawful aggression".&nbsp;The current conflict, now in its 77th day, began on February 28 with heavy airstrikes on Iranian infrastructure, triggering a major global energy crisis after Iran effectively choked off maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-us-talks-pakistan-mediation-lavrov-india-role-1778840109808">Iran says Pakistan mediation not failed yet; Lavrov backs India’s bigger role</a>&nbsp;However, Iran’s diplomatic push ran directly into resistance from the UAE. Tehran has launched multiple missile and drone strikes against Emirati territory since the conflict began, accusing Abu Dhabi of aiding Western military efforts. Speaking at a press conference following the conclusion of the talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that a single member state had blocked key sections of the proposed joint text. While Araghchi refrained from naming the UAE directly, his remarks left little doubt about the culprit.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-visit-russia-later-this-year-lavrov-says-open-to-everything-indian-partners-are-interested-in-1778844233245">PM Modi confirms Russia visit: Lavrov says ‘open to everything’ for India</a>&nbsp;"We only hit American military bases and American military installations which are unfortunately on their soil," Araghchi stated, attempting to downplay direct animosity with the Gulf state. "I hope by the time that we come for the summit, they come to a good understanding that Iran is a neighbour... we have to live with each other."&nbsp;The UAE Foreign Ministry did not immediately offer a public response to Araghchi’s comments. The lack of consensus placed India in a complex diplomatic tightrope. As the world's third-largest oil consumer, New Delhi has been heavily hit by rising fuel prices driven by the Hormuz blockade, through which 20% of global oil flows. Yet, India must carefully balance its strategic partnerships with Washington and Israel against its deep bilateral ties with Gulf oil exporters and Iran.&nbsp;While the final chair's statement noted broad consensus on upholding international law and preserving safe maritime commerce, the failure to issue a formal declaration underscores the reality of an expanded BRICS: a bloc united on changing the Global South narrative, but deeply fractured by regional wars.

A key BRICS ministerial meeting in India has ended without a joint statement after bitter divisions erupted over the US-Israeli war on Iran.

A two-day meeting of BRICS foreign ministers ended in deadlock on Friday (May 15), failing to produce a unified joint statement after sharp divisions erupted over the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran.The diplomatic impasse forced host nation India, which holds the 2026 BRICS chair, to release only a “chair’s statement and outcome document” rather than a traditional joint communique, news agency Reuters reported. The document explicitly acknowledged that “there were differing views among some members as regards the situation in the West Asia/Middle East region.” The fracture highlights the structural friction within the expanded 10-member bloc, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, and recent inductees Iran and the United Arab Emirates as it struggles to maintain a cohesive geopolitical identity amidst active conflict. At Bharat Mandapam, Iran condemned and termed acts by the US and Israel "unlawful aggression". The current conflict, now in its 77th day, began on February 28 with heavy airstrikes on Iranian infrastructure, triggering a major global energy crisis after Iran effectively choked off maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Also read: Iran says Pakistan mediation not failed yet; Lavrov backs India’s bigger role However, Iran’s diplomatic push ran directly into resistance from the UAE. Tehran has launched multiple missile and drone strikes against Emirati territory since the conflict began, accusing Abu Dhabi of aiding Western military efforts. Speaking at a press conference following the conclusion of the talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that a single member state had blocked key sections of the proposed joint text. While Araghchi refrained from naming the UAE directly, his remarks left little doubt about the culprit. Also read: PM Modi confirms Russia visit: Lavrov says ‘open to everything’ for India "We only hit American military bases and American military installations which are unfortunately on their soil," Araghchi stated, attempting to downplay direct animosity with the Gulf state. "I hope by the time that we come for the summit, they come to a good understanding that Iran is a neighbour... we have to live with each other." The UAE Foreign Ministry did not immediately offer a public response to Araghchi’s comments. The lack of consensus placed India in a complex diplomatic tightrope. As the world's third-largest oil consumer, New Delhi has been heavily hit by rising fuel prices driven by the Hormuz blockade, through which 20% of global oil flows. Yet, India must carefully balance its strategic partnerships with Washington and Israel against its deep bilateral ties with Gulf oil exporters and Iran. While the final chair's statement noted broad consensus on upholding international law and preserving safe maritime commerce, the failure to issue a formal declaration underscores the reality of an expanded BRICS: a bloc united on changing the Global South narrative, but deeply fractured by regional wars.

A key BRICS ministerial meeting in India has ended without a joint statement after bitter divisions erupted over the US-Israeli war on Iran.

BRICS Summit ends without joint statement as Iran war exposes deep blocs divisions

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