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Russia on Saturday (Aug 10) evacuated more than 76,000 people from areas bordering Ukraine in Russia's Kursk region following Ukraine's incursion into the region earlier this week.

Russia on Saturday (Aug 10) evacuated more than 76,000 people from areas bordering Ukraine in Russia's Kursk region following Ukraine's incursion into the region earlier this week. The Russian emergencies ministry released a video clip it said showed evacuees arriving at the city of Oryol, 140 kilometres north of Kursk. Other clips were said to show psychologists helping people staying in shelters in the Kursk region, according to the ministry's statement. Russia is fighting intense battles against thousands of Ukrainian troops as deep as 20 kilometres inside the Kursk after Ukraine's biggest attack on Russian sovereign territory since the start of the war in 2022. Zelensky acknowledges incursion On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time acknowledged that his country's military was fighting in the Kursk region, and said that the operation was part of Kyiv's drive to restore justice following the Russian invasion in 2022. Also read | Ukraine to unleash ‘BAD’ robot dogs on Russian forces in attempt to mitigate losses In his nightly video address, President Zelensky said he had discussed the operation with top Ukrainian commander Oleksandr Syrskyi, while not forgetting the battles troops face on the difficult eastern front. "Today, I received several reports from commander-in-chief Syrskyi regarding the front lines and our actions to push the war onto the aggressor's territory," Zelensky said, adding, he was grateful to every unit of the defence forces for ensuring that. The president had previously alluded to the operation, praising the military's ability "to surprise" and thanking them for taking Russian soldiers prisoner to be used in future negotiations, specifically referring to the past week. 13 injured from debris of Ukraine-launched missile In the latest news from Ukraine's incursion of Kursk, 13 people were injured in the region after debris from a destroyed Ukraine-launched missile fell onto a nine-storey residential building. Alexei Smirnov, Kursk's acting governor, ordered local authorities to speed up the evacuation of civilians in areas at risk. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Russia evacuates over 76,000 in Kursk region; Zelensky acknowledges operation

A police officer in the US state of Missouri was critically injured outside a police station in Ferguson during protests on the 10th anniversary of the fatal shooting of Michael Brown, the police said on Saturday (Aug 10).

A police officer in the US state of Missouri was critically injured outside a police station in Ferguson during protests on the 10th anniversary of the fatal shooting of Michael Brown, the police said on Saturday (Aug 10). The officer was identified as Travis Brown. According to Ferguson police chief Troy Doyle, Brown suffered a severe brain injury Friday after being knocked to the ground. Two other officers were injured during the protest. Suspect charged A report by the news agency Associated Press said that on Friday (Aug 9), a team of officers went out to make arrests for the destruction of property at the police station, where protesters gathered to remember Michael Brown. One of the suspects was charged Saturday with assault of a special victim, resisting arrest and property damage. He was ordered held on a $500,000 cash-only bond. It was not yet known if the man had a lawyer. Troy Doyle said that for the majority of the night, the protesters were peaceful, and the police allowed them to block the street outside the station, posting a squad car on each end, so they wouldn’t be hit by vehicles. Also read: US lawmakers urge sanctions on ousted Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's officials Police also didn’t intervene when the protesters began shaking the fence outside the station. However, Doyle said that when they broke a section of fencing, he sent out the arrest team. The police chief added that the suspect who charged at Travis Brown knocked him backwards with his shoulder, and the officer hit his head as he tumbled to the ground. The man then went on to injure two other officers. The shooting of Michael Brown Michael Brown, an 18-year-old Black man, was killed by Darren Wilson, a White police officer in 2014. On August 9, 2014, Brown and his friend were walking in a two-lane street in a suburb of Ferguson, when Wilson drove by and told them to use the sidewalk. After words were exchanged, Wilson confronted Brown. The situation escalated, with the officer and Brown scuffling. The officer shot and killed Brown, who was unarmed. The shooting was a pivotal moment in the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. On Saturday, Doyle said that Officer Travis Brown, who is also Black, started with the Ferguson Police Department in January and previously worked for the St. Louis County Police Department. He is part of a wave of Black officers hired into the department since 2014. Back then, there were just three Black officers in the department, but Black officers now make up more than half of the police force, Doyle said. (With inputs from agencies)

Michael Brown death anniversary: US cop critically injured during protests

22 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ).

In other news,&nbsp;The Iranian government is at odds over how to retaliate against Israel following the killing of Haniyeh.

Click on the links to&nbsp; read more...

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/22-chinese-military-aircraft-breach-taiwans-air-defense-zone-748884">22 Chinese military aircraft breach Taiwan's air defence zone</a>

Taiwan's defense ministry reported sighting 28 Chinese military aircraft and 10 naval vessels. Twenty-two of the planes crossed into Taiwan's air defense identification zone in a 24-hour period.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/20/426305-untitled-design-2024-04-20t100808619.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-guards-push-for-strikes-on-israeli-cities-new-president-focuses-on-mossad-748895">Iran's guards want to hit Israeli cities, new president focuses on Mossad</a>

A confrontation between Iran's newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian and some hardliners within the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has cast uncertainty over Iran's response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/10/448582-untitled-design-50.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinaloa-cartels-el-mayo-taken-against-his-will-while-joaquin-guzman-voluntarily-surrendered-envoy-748873">Sinaloa cartel's 'El Mayo' taken against his will, says envoy</a>

The United States (US) Ambassador to Mexico&nbsp;Ken Salazar said on Friday (Aug 9) that Sinaloa drug cartel leader&nbsp;"El Mayo" Zambada was arrested in the US after flying there "against his will.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/10/448566-untitled-design.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-strike-on-school-in-gaza-city-kills-40-748876">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli strike on school in Gaza City kills 40</a>

Gaza's civil defence agency said on Saturday (Aug 10) that an Israeli strike hit a school in Gaza City, killing 40 people.&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/10/448567-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" />

WATCH:&nbsp;What's behind Ukraine's surprise incursion into Russia's Kursk?

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22 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). In other news, The Iranian government is at odds over how to retaliate against Israel following the killing of Haniyeh.

22 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). In other news, The Iranian government is at odds over how to retaliate against Israel following the killing of Haniyeh. Click on the links to read more... 22 Chinese military aircraft breach Taiwan's air defence zone Taiwan's defense ministry reported sighting 28 Chinese military aircraft and 10 naval vessels. Twenty-two of the planes crossed into Taiwan's air defense identification zone in a 24-hour period. Iran's guards want to hit Israeli cities, new president focuses on Mossad A confrontation between Iran's newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian and some hardliners within the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has cast uncertainty over Iran's response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Sinaloa cartel's 'El Mayo' taken against his will, says envoy The United States (US) Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar said on Friday (Aug 9) that Sinaloa drug cartel leader "El Mayo" Zambada was arrested in the US after flying there "against his will. Israel-Hamas war: Israeli strike on school in Gaza City kills 40 Gaza's civil defence agency said on Saturday (Aug 10) that an Israeli strike hit a school in Gaza City, killing 40 people. WATCH: What's behind Ukraine's surprise incursion into Russia's Kursk? ×

Morning news brief: Taiwan detects 22 Chinese aircraft; Iran's Guards aim to hit Israel; and more

A confrontation between Iran's newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian and some hardliners within the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has cast uncertainty over Iran's response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

The Iranian government is at odds over how to retaliate against Israel following the killing of Haniyeh, according to The Telegraph.

The IRGC is reportedly pushing for a direct and severe missile strike on Tel Aviv and other major Israeli cities. However, President Pezeshkian, who assumed office just days before the assassination, is pushing back against this aggressive strategy.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-strike-on-school-in-gaza-city-kills-40-748876">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli strike on school in Gaza City kills 40</a>

Pezeshkian, known for his comparatively moderate stance and his electoral victory over a candidate backed by the IRGC, is advocating for a more calculated response.&nbsp;

The newly elected president is urging for strikes on alleged Mossad bases located outside Israel, particularly in neighbouring regions such as the Republic of Azerbaijan and Iraqi Kurdistan.&nbsp;

He argues that this approach would minimize the risk of a full-scale war with Israel, a conflict he believes could have severe consequences for Iran.

A close aide to President Pezeshkian told The Telegraph, "Pezeshkian fears that any direct attack on Israel would have serious consequences."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-agrees-to-resume-truce-talks-on-aug-15-at-mediators-demand-748588" target="_blank">Gaza war: Israel agrees to resume truce talks on Aug 15 at mediators' demand</a>

The aide reportedly further said that Pezeshkian has suggested notifying Azerbaijan and Iraqi Kurdistan before any strikes on alleged Israeli bases within their borders.

The IRGC, which has historically enjoyed significant autonomy and influence within the Iranian government, is reportedly undermining Pezeshkian's efforts to avoid a major confrontation with Israel.

Video:&nbsp;Iran's Revolutionary Guards showcase undetectable cruise missiles

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An official from the IRGC told The Telegraph that the organisation is mainly dismissive of the president's more restrained approach. "The number one consideration is still striking Tel Aviv with Hezbollah and others at the same time," the official said as quoted by The Telegraph.

Pezeshkian faces a rising conflict in asserting his authority over the IRGC, which remains loyal to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;

Another aide close to the president informs The Telegraph, The IRGC's push for a more aggressive response is seen as being "more about undermining his week-long presidency than addressing the humiliation they have suffered" from the assassination.

(With inputs from agencies)

A confrontation between Iran's newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian and some hardliners within the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has cast uncertainty over Iran's response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

A confrontation between Iran's newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian and some hardliners within the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has cast uncertainty over Iran's response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. The Iranian government is at odds over how to retaliate against Israel following the killing of Haniyeh, according to The Telegraph. The IRGC is reportedly pushing for a direct and severe missile strike on Tel Aviv and other major Israeli cities. However, President Pezeshkian, who assumed office just days before the assassination, is pushing back against this aggressive strategy. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Israeli strike on school in Gaza City kills 40 Pezeshkian, known for his comparatively moderate stance and his electoral victory over a candidate backed by the IRGC, is advocating for a more calculated response. The newly elected president is urging for strikes on alleged Mossad bases located outside Israel, particularly in neighbouring regions such as the Republic of Azerbaijan and Iraqi Kurdistan. He argues that this approach would minimize the risk of a full-scale war with Israel, a conflict he believes could have severe consequences for Iran. A close aide to President Pezeshkian told The Telegraph, "Pezeshkian fears that any direct attack on Israel would have serious consequences." Also read | Gaza war: Israel agrees to resume truce talks on Aug 15 at mediators' demand The aide reportedly further said that Pezeshkian has suggested notifying Azerbaijan and Iraqi Kurdistan before any strikes on alleged Israeli bases within their borders. The IRGC, which has historically enjoyed significant autonomy and influence within the Iranian government, is reportedly undermining Pezeshkian's efforts to avoid a major confrontation with Israel. Video: Iran's Revolutionary Guards showcase undetectable cruise missiles × An official from the IRGC told The Telegraph that the organisation is mainly dismissive of the president's more restrained approach. "The number one consideration is still striking Tel Aviv with Hezbollah and others at the same time," the official said as quoted by The Telegraph. Pezeshkian faces a rising conflict in asserting his authority over the IRGC, which remains loyal to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Another aide close to the president informs The Telegraph, The IRGC's push for a more aggressive response is seen as being "more about undermining his week-long presidency than addressing the humiliation they have suffered" from the assassination. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Guards push for strikes on Israeli cities, new president focuses on Mossad

The Biden administration has decided to lift a ban on US sales of offensive weapons to&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Friday, reversing a three-year-old policy to pressure the kingdom to wind down the Yemen war.

The administration briefed Congress this week on its decision to lift the ban, a congressional aide said. One source said sales could resume as early as next week, while another said deliberations on timing were still under way.

"The&nbsp;Saudis have met their end of the deal, and we are prepared to meet ours, returning these cases to regular order through appropriate congressional notification and consultation," a senior Biden administration official said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwigjPmwu-iHAxXvUGcHHQODC-IQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-saudi-arabia-or-finland-where-will-sheikh-hasina-apply-for-asylum-748159" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-saudi-arabia-or-finland-where-will-sheikh-hasina-apply-for-asylum-748159&amp;ved=2ahUKEwigjPmwu-iHAxXvUGcHHQODC-IQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">India, Saudi Arabia or Finland? Where will Sheikh Hasina apply for asylum?</a>

Under US law, major international weapons deals must be reviewed by members of Congress before they are made final. Democratic and Republican lawmakers have questioned the provision of offensive weapons to&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia in recent years, citing issues including the toll on civilians of its campaign in Yemen and a range of human rights concerns.

But that opposition has softened amid turmoil in the Middle East following Hamas' deadly October&nbsp;7 attack on Israel and because of changes in the conduct of the campaign in Yemen.

The threat level in the region has been heightened since late last month, with Iran and Lebanon's powerful Iran-backed Hezbollah group vowing to retaliate against Israel after Hamas' political chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwigjPmwu-iHAxXvUGcHHQODC-IQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabias-petrodollar-deal-with-us-expired-with-no-new-agreement-in-place-731514" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabias-petrodollar-deal-with-us-expired-with-no-new-agreement-in-place-731514&amp;ved=2ahUKEwigjPmwu-iHAxXvUGcHHQODC-IQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Saudi Arabia`s petrodollar deal with US expires with no new agreement in place</a>

The Biden administration also has been negotiating a defence pact and an agreement for civil nuclear cooperation with Riyadh as part of a broad deal that envisions&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia normalizing ties with Israel, although that remains an elusive goal.

Since March 2022 - when the&nbsp;Saudis and Houthis entered into a UN-led truce - there have not been any&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;airstrikes in Yemen and cross-border fire from Yemen into the kingdom has largely stopped, the administration official said.

Biden adopted the tougher stance on weapons sales to&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia in 2021, citing the kingdom's campaign against the Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen, which has inflicted heavy civilian casualties.

Yemen's war is seen as one of several proxy battles between Iran and&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia. The Houthis ousted a&nbsp;Saudi-backed government from Sanaa in late 2014 and have been at war against a&nbsp;Saudi-led military alliance since 2015, a conflict that has killed hundreds of thousands of people and left 80% of Yemen's population dependent on humanitarian aid.

"We are regularly conducting airstrikes to degrade Houthi capabilities, an effort that is ongoing and will continue together with a coalition of partners," the senior US administration official said.

"We have designated the Houthis as Specially Designated Global Terrorists, and we will have imposed sanctions and additional costs on the Houthi smuggling networks and military apparatus. This pressure will continue to build over the coming weeks," the official said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The Biden administration has decided to lift a ban on US sales of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Friday, reversing a three-year-old policy to pressure the kingdom to wind down the Yemen war.

The Biden administration has decided to lift a ban on US sales of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Friday, reversing a three-year-old policy to pressure the kingdom to wind down the Yemen war. The administration briefed Congress this week on its decision to lift the ban, a congressional aide said. One source said sales could resume as early as next week, while another said deliberations on timing were still under way. "The Saudis have met their end of the deal, and we are prepared to meet ours, returning these cases to regular order through appropriate congressional notification and consultation," a senior Biden administration official said. Also read: India, Saudi Arabia or Finland? Where will Sheikh Hasina apply for asylum? Under US law, major international weapons deals must be reviewed by members of Congress before they are made final. Democratic and Republican lawmakers have questioned the provision of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia in recent years, citing issues including the toll on civilians of its campaign in Yemen and a range of human rights concerns. But that opposition has softened amid turmoil in the Middle East following Hamas' deadly October 7 attack on Israel and because of changes in the conduct of the campaign in Yemen. The threat level in the region has been heightened since late last month, with Iran and Lebanon's powerful Iran-backed Hezbollah group vowing to retaliate against Israel after Hamas' political chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran. Also read: Saudi Arabia`s petrodollar deal with US expires with no new agreement in place The Biden administration also has been negotiating a defence pact and an agreement for civil nuclear cooperation with Riyadh as part of a broad deal that envisions Saudi Arabia normalizing ties with Israel, although that remains an elusive goal. Since March 2022 - when the Saudis and Houthis entered into a UN-led truce - there have not been any Saudi airstrikes in Yemen and cross-border fire from Yemen into the kingdom has largely stopped, the administration official said. Biden adopted the tougher stance on weapons sales to Saudi Arabia in 2021, citing the kingdom's campaign against the Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen, which has inflicted heavy civilian casualties. Yemen's war is seen as one of several proxy battles between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The Houthis ousted a Saudi-backed government from Sanaa in late 2014 and have been at war against a Saudi-led military alliance since 2015, a conflict that has killed hundreds of thousands of people and left 80% of Yemen's population dependent on humanitarian aid. "We are regularly conducting airstrikes to degrade Houthi capabilities, an effort that is ongoing and will continue together with a coalition of partners," the senior US administration official said. "We have designated the Houthis as Specially Designated Global Terrorists, and we will have imposed sanctions and additional costs on the Houthi smuggling networks and military apparatus. This pressure will continue to build over the coming weeks," the official said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Biden administration paves way for sale of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia

Taiwan's defense ministry reported sighting 28 Chinese military aircraft and 10 naval vessels. Twenty-two of the planes crossed into Taiwan's air defense identification zone in a 24-hour period.

Of the 28 Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), 22 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ)&nbsp;

Taiwan's MND on Friday said that it has monitored the situation and responded accordingly.

Responding to China's military action, Taiwan sent aircraft and naval ships and deployed coastal-based missile systems to monitor PLA activity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-tracks-66-chinese-military-aircraft-near-its-territory-within-a-day-739738" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-tracks-66-chinese-military-aircraft-near-its-territory-within-a-day-739738&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjitr2BvOmHAxVvTGcHHWJsL3cQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0IvOEZIofkQXRySEUdgvqC&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-tracks-66-chinese-military-aircraft-near-its-territory-within-a-day-739738" target="_blank">Taiwan&nbsp;tracks 66 Chinese military aircraft near its territory within a day</a>

Taking to social media handle, X, Taiwan's MND stated, "28 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 22 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly."

This latest incident is part of a growing trend of Chinese military aggression towards Taiwan. Beijing has intensified air and naval operations near the island, including repeated incursions into Taiwan's air defense identification zone.

Taiwanese MND said on Friday (Aug 8), that 18 Chinese military aircraft and nine naval vessels were operating from 6 am (local time) on Thursday to 6 am (local time) on Friday.

Of the 18 Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), 12 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ).

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwan-fm-joseph-wu-speaks-to-wion-on-india-taiwan-ties-semiconductor-indo-pacific-and-more-710541" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwan-fm-joseph-wu-speaks-to-wion-on-india-taiwan-ties-semiconductor-indo-pacific-and-more-710541&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjitr2BvOmHAxVvTGcHHWJsL3cQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2xVjVrXLVoar7pDlsMYOXr&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwan-fm-joseph-wu-speaks-to-wion-on-india-taiwan-ties-semiconductor-indo-pacific-and-more-710541" target="_blank">Taiwan&nbsp;FM Joseph Wu speaks to WION on India-Taiwan&nbsp;ties</a>

As per the Taiwan News report, grey zone tactics are "an effort or series of efforts beyond steady-state deterrence and assurance that attempts to achieve one's security objectives without resort to direct and sizable use of force."

It may be mentioned here, Taiwan has been governed independently since 1949. However, China considers Taiwan part of its territory and insists on eventual reunification, by force if necessary.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan's defense ministry reported sighting 28 Chinese military aircraft and 10 naval vessels. Twenty-two of the planes crossed into Taiwan's air defense identification zone in a 24-hour period.

Taiwan's defense ministry reported sighting 28 Chinese military aircraft and 10 naval vessels. Twenty-two of the planes crossed into Taiwan's air defense identification zone in a 24-hour period. Of the 28 Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), 22 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) Taiwan's MND on Friday said that it has monitored the situation and responded accordingly. Responding to China's military action, Taiwan sent aircraft and naval ships and deployed coastal-based missile systems to monitor PLA activity. Also read: Taiwan tracks 66 Chinese military aircraft near its territory within a day Taking to social media handle, X, Taiwan's MND stated, "28 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 22 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly." This latest incident is part of a growing trend of Chinese military aggression towards Taiwan. Beijing has intensified air and naval operations near the island, including repeated incursions into Taiwan's air defense identification zone. Taiwanese MND said on Friday (Aug 8), that 18 Chinese military aircraft and nine naval vessels were operating from 6 am (local time) on Thursday to 6 am (local time) on Friday. Of the 18 Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), 12 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeastern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). Also read: Taiwan FM Joseph Wu speaks to WION on India-Taiwan ties As per the Taiwan News report, grey zone tactics are "an effort or series of efforts beyond steady-state deterrence and assurance that attempts to achieve one's security objectives without resort to direct and sizable use of force." It may be mentioned here, Taiwan has been governed independently since 1949. However, China considers Taiwan part of its territory and insists on eventual reunification, by force if necessary. (With inputs from agencies)

22 Chinese military aircraft breach Taiwan's air defence zone

An Italian appeals court upheld Amanda Knox's slander conviction on Friday (Aug 9), ruling that her handwritten memo, which falsely implicated a Congolese bar owner in her roommate's 2007 murder, provided sufficient evidence.

The slander conviction is the only one remaining against her long after Knox was definitively pardoned of the murder, and she traveled to Florence in June hoping to remove the last legal stain against her — only to be convicted again.

With Knox's coerced confessions overturned, the Florence appellate court was left to examine only her handwritten document as evidence in the slander case against her.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italian-court-finds-amanda-knox-guilty-of-slander-over-2007-murder-case-729244" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/italian-court-finds-amanda-knox-guilty-of-slander-over-2007-murder-case-729244&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiR4PO8uOmHAxUcV2wGHUvlK60QFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3WhxI4s4ArV_uCK2E3nR1J&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italian-court-finds-amanda-knox-guilty-of-slander-over-2007-murder-case-729244" target="_blank">Italian Court finds&nbsp;Amanda Knox&nbsp;guilty of slander over 2007 murder</a>

The highest court's ruling followed a finding by a European court that Knox's rights had been violated during a long night of questioning.

“The document was written unexpectedly and freely, as the accused confirmed in the course of her examination,″ the Florence appellate court said in a 35-page document that gave its reasoning for the June conviction.&nbsp;

The court said that the memo contained “the objective details of the crime of slander.”

Notably, Knox's hand-written document was an attempt to walk back the accusations against Lumumba. 
“I’m very uncertain of the reality of the statements because they were made under the pressure of stress, shock and extreme exhaustion,” Knox wrote.

Knox wrote that she had been under pressure&nbsp;and told she faced 30 years in prison while being questioned overnight and went on to repeat elements of her accusation against Lumumba. “These events feel like a dream. I can’t determine if they’re real or imagined answers to my questions.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-amanda-knox-reconvicted-of-slander-in-case-linked-to-roommates-2007-murder-729204" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-amanda-knox-reconvicted-of-slander-in-case-linked-to-roommates-2007-murder-729204&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiR4PO8uOmHAxUcV2wGHUvlK60QFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2TSBMVPJwoyj-uX2K8p1o4&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-amanda-knox-reconvicted-of-slander-in-case-linked-to-roommates-2007-murder-729204" target="_blank">Italy:&nbsp;Amanda Knox&nbsp;reconvicted of slander in case linked to 2007 murder</a>

It may be mentioned here, in 2019, European Court of Human Rights ordered Italy to pay Knox damages for failing to provide a lawyer or an independent judge during the extended night of questioning during which she signed the two statements fingering Lumumba.

Knox's lawyer vowed to appeal the ruling, claiming the court's decision undermined the European Court of Human Rights, which previously awarded Knox damages.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Italian appeals court upheld Amanda Knox's slander conviction on Friday (Aug 9), ruling that her handwritten memo, which falsely implicated a Congolese bar owner in her roommate's 2007 murder, provided sufficient evidence.

An Italian appeals court upheld Amanda Knox's slander conviction on Friday (Aug 9), ruling that her handwritten memo, which falsely implicated a Congolese bar owner in her roommate's 2007 murder, provided sufficient evidence. The slander conviction is the only one remaining against her long after Knox was definitively pardoned of the murder, and she traveled to Florence in June hoping to remove the last legal stain against her — only to be convicted again. With Knox's coerced confessions overturned, the Florence appellate court was left to examine only her handwritten document as evidence in the slander case against her. Also read: Italian Court finds Amanda Knox guilty of slander over 2007 murder The highest court's ruling followed a finding by a European court that Knox's rights had been violated during a long night of questioning. “The document was written unexpectedly and freely, as the accused confirmed in the course of her examination,″ the Florence appellate court said in a 35-page document that gave its reasoning for the June conviction. The court said that the memo contained “the objective details of the crime of slander.” Notably, Knox's hand-written document was an attempt to walk back the accusations against Lumumba. “I’m very uncertain of the reality of the statements because they were made under the pressure of stress, shock and extreme exhaustion,” Knox wrote. Knox wrote that she had been under pressure and told she faced 30 years in prison while being questioned overnight and went on to repeat elements of her accusation against Lumumba. “These events feel like a dream. I can’t determine if they’re real or imagined answers to my questions.” Also read: Italy: Amanda Knox reconvicted of slander in case linked to 2007 murder It may be mentioned here, in 2019, European Court of Human Rights ordered Italy to pay Knox damages for failing to provide a lawyer or an independent judge during the extended night of questioning during which she signed the two statements fingering Lumumba. Knox's lawyer vowed to appeal the ruling, claiming the court's decision undermined the European Court of Human Rights, which previously awarded Knox damages. (With inputs from agencies)

Amanda Knox's false accusation of bar owner stands: Italian court 

The United States (US) Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar said on Friday (Aug 9) that Sinaloa drug cartel leader "El Mayo" Zambada was arrested in the US after flying there "against his will" while other cartel leader El Chapo's son Joaquin Guzman Lopez had voluntarily surrendered.

The United States (US) Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar said on Friday (Aug 9) that Sinaloa drug cartel leader "El Mayo" Zambada was arrested in the US after flying there "against his will" while other cartel leader El Chapo's son Joaquin Guzman Lopez had voluntarily surrendered. Both Zambada and Lopez were arrested in July and have pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking charges in the US. Addressing a press conference, Ambassador Salazar said that Zambada was taken against his will while Lopez voluntarily surrendered. "I want you to understand very clearly, there were no resources from the United States in this operation," he added. Also read | Arrested Mexican drug lord 'El Mayo' pleads not guilty to US drug charges The ambassador's remarks came as the murky circumstances leading to the Sinaloa Cartel members' US arrest last month caused the Mexican government to reproach the Latin American nation's neighbour for lack of cooperation, a report by the news agency Reuters said. 'They've not given us sufficient information' Hours before Salazar's press conference, Mexican President Manuel Lopez Obrador complained that there was no cooperation from the US on clarifying the circumstances around the arrests of Zambada and Guzman. "They have not given us sufficient information," President Obrador said at a separate press conference. Zambada co-founded the Sinaloa cartel with El Chapo in the 1980s and it has since risen to be one of the most powerful criminal operations in Mexico alongside the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Zambada escaped arrest for much of his life and was the most wanted drug trafficker in the US. 'My client was forcibly kidnapped' Speaking to Reuters, Zambada's lawyer said that Guzman Lopez and six men in military uniforms "forcibly kidnapped" his client near the Sinaloa state capital of Culiacan and flew him to the US against his will. However, the Guzman family lawyer denied kidnapping and called it a voluntary surrender after extended negotiations. (With inputs from agencies)

Sinaloa cartel's 'El Mayo' taken against his will while Joaquin Guzman voluntarily surrendered: Envoy

As United Kingdom recovers from a weekend of protests riots and right-wing thug the mayor of London Sadiq Khan has raised concerns about his safety. Watch in for more details!

UK riots: PM Starmer puts UK police on high-alert amid fears of disorder

Republican presidential candidate and ex-US president Donald Trump in a press conference recounted his scary experience of nearly dying in an alleged helicopter crash, where he claimed he was travelling with former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown. Trump made these claims in response to a question about the relations between Brown and Democratic presidential hopeful and Vice President Kamala Harris.

“I know Willie Brown very well. In fact, I went down in a helicopter with him. We thought maybe this is the end. We were in a helicopter going to a certain location together, and there was an emergency landing,” Trump told reporters gathered at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida.

“This was not a pleasant landing, and Willie was, he was a little concerned. So I know him, I know him pretty well. I mean, I haven’t seen him in years,” Trump went on. "I went down in a helicopter with him. We thought maybe this is the end,” the ex-president claimed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiL9vjFo-qHAxVJTGwGHavqNP0QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/autonews/trumps-reluctant-embrace-of-evs-amid-musk-endorsement-747325" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/autonews/trumps-reluctant-embrace-of-evs-amid-musk-endorsement-747325&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiL9vjFo-qHAxVJTGwGHavqNP0QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Trump`s reluctant embrace of EVs amid Musk endorsement</a>

But his claims were soon rejected by the former mayor. Willie described Trump’s story as “obviously wrong”, saying, “I’ve never been in a helicopter with him in my life.”

When Trump’s campaign was asked for a response to Willie’s rejection of his story, a spokesperson responded by saying, “Slick Willie!”

<h2>Is Trump confused?</h2>

Meanwhile, a&nbsp;report by the&nbsp;Times&nbsp;on Thursday (Aug 8) speculated Trump may have confused Willie with former California Governor&nbsp;Jerry Brown, with whom he toured wildfire damage by helicopter in November 2018. However, California Governor&nbsp;Gavin Newsom, who also toured the wildfires with Trump and Jerry Brown in a helicopter, claimed the helicopter never went down.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiL9vjFo-qHAxVJTGwGHavqNP0QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-be-in-interview-with-musk-will-it-break-the-internet-when-and-where-will-it-happen-748086" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-be-in-interview-with-musk-will-it-break-the-internet-when-and-where-will-it-happen-748086&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiL9vjFo-qHAxVJTGwGHavqNP0QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Trump to be in interview with Musk: Will it break the internet? When and where will it happen?</a>

“I was on a helicopter with Jerry Brown and Trump, and it didn’t go down,” Newsom was quoted as saying by the Times.

But the former president&nbsp;again asserted his story was true on Friday, saying he was not confusing Willie with Jerry.

“First of all, it was in New Jersey, not California, and it was Willie Brown, not former Governor Jerry Brown,” Trump said in a post&nbsp;on his Truth Social platform.&nbsp;

Amidst this,&nbsp;Former Los Angeles city councilman and California state Sen. Nate Holden claimed Friday that Trump could be mistaking him with Willie as it was actually him on the scary ride.

“Willie is the short Black guy living in San Francisco,” Holden said in an interview with Politico late Friday. “I’m a tall Black guy living in Los Angeles.”

“I guess we all look alike,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Republican presidential candidate and ex-US president Donald Trump in a press conference recounted his scary experience of nearly dying in an alleged helicopter crash, where he claimed he was travelling with former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown.

Republican presidential candidate and ex-US president Donald Trump in a press conference recounted his scary experience of nearly dying in an alleged helicopter crash, where he claimed he was travelling with former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown. Trump made these claims in response to a question about the relations between Brown and Democratic presidential hopeful and Vice President Kamala Harris. “I know Willie Brown very well. In fact, I went down in a helicopter with him. We thought maybe this is the end. We were in a helicopter going to a certain location together, and there was an emergency landing,” Trump told reporters gathered at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. “This was not a pleasant landing, and Willie was, he was a little concerned. So I know him, I know him pretty well. I mean, I haven’t seen him in years,” Trump went on. "I went down in a helicopter with him. We thought maybe this is the end,” the ex-president claimed. Also read: Trump`s reluctant embrace of EVs amid Musk endorsement But his claims were soon rejected by the former mayor. Willie described Trump’s story as “obviously wrong”, saying, “I’ve never been in a helicopter with him in my life.” When Trump’s campaign was asked for a response to Willie’s rejection of his story, a spokesperson responded by saying, “Slick Willie!” Is Trump confused? Meanwhile, a report by the Times on Thursday (Aug 8) speculated Trump may have confused Willie with former California Governor Jerry Brown, with whom he toured wildfire damage by helicopter in November 2018. However, California Governor Gavin Newsom, who also toured the wildfires with Trump and Jerry Brown in a helicopter, claimed the helicopter never went down. Also read: Trump to be in interview with Musk: Will it break the internet? When and where will it happen? “I was on a helicopter with Jerry Brown and Trump, and it didn’t go down,” Newsom was quoted as saying by the Times. But the former president again asserted his story was true on Friday, saying he was not confusing Willie with Jerry. “First of all, it was in New Jersey, not California, and it was Willie Brown, not former Governor Jerry Brown,” Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform. Amidst this, Former Los Angeles city councilman and California state Sen. Nate Holden claimed Friday that Trump could be mistaking him with Willie as it was actually him on the scary ride. “Willie is the short Black guy living in San Francisco,” Holden said in an interview with Politico late Friday. “I’m a tall Black guy living in Los Angeles.” “I guess we all look alike,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘My helicopter went down,’ Trump recounts scary crash that ‘never happened’

Russia launched a "counter-terror operation" on Saturday (August 10) across three border regions — Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk — as Ukrainian forces launched their largest cross-border offensive since the conflict began two and a half years ago. The development coincided with Russia's evacuation of more than 76,000 people from border areas in its western Kursk region since Tuesday (August 6), when Ukraine launched a surprise cross-border offensive.

The Russian operation, triggered after Ukrainian units made a surprise incursion into Russia's western Kursk region on Tuesday morning, has involved the deployment of additional troops, including tanks, rocket launchers, and aviation units, to halt the advancing Ukrainian forces.

Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: What's behind Ukraine's surprise incursion into Russia's Kursk?

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The Russian National Anti-Terrorism Committee announced late Friday (August 9) the start of the "counter-terror operations," to ensure the safety of citizens and neutralising purported terrorist threats posed by Ukrainian sabotage groups.

Under Russian law, the declaration of a "counter-terror" operation grants security forces and the military emergency powers. These include restricting movement, seizing vehicles, monitoring communications, designating no-go zones, establishing checkpoints, and bolstering security at critical infrastructure sites.

The committee described Ukraine's actions as an "unprecedented attempt to destabilize the situation" in the affected regions and labelled the incursion a "terrorist attack." They also claimed that Ukrainian forces had injured civilians and caused significant damage to residential buildings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-advances-in-ukraines-kharkiv-region-to-create-buffer-zone-720105">New front opens in Russia-Ukraine war as Moscow launches surprise offensive</a>

While Ukrainian officials have remained largely silent on the operation, President Volodymyr Zelensky hinted at the success of his troops. He said earlier this week that Russia must "feel" the consequences of its full-scale offensive against Ukraine, which began in February 2022.&nbsp;

The United States, a key ally of Ukraine, said that it was not informed of the operation in advance.

On Saturday, Russia's defence ministry released footage of tank crews firing on Ukrainian positions in the Kursk region, along with footage of an overnight air strike. The ministry also claimed that 26 Ukrainian drones attempting to attack the region were shot down overnight.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

Russia launched a "counter-terror operation" on Saturday (August 10) across three border regions — Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk — as Ukrainian forces launched their largest cross-border offensive since the conflict began two and a half years ago.

Russia launched a "counter-terror operation" on Saturday (August 10) across three border regions — Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk — as Ukrainian forces launched their largest cross-border offensive since the conflict began two and a half years ago. The development coincided with Russia's evacuation of more than 76,000 people from border areas in its western Kursk region since Tuesday (August 6), when Ukraine launched a surprise cross-border offensive. The Russian operation, triggered after Ukrainian units made a surprise incursion into Russia's western Kursk region on Tuesday morning, has involved the deployment of additional troops, including tanks, rocket launchers, and aviation units, to halt the advancing Ukrainian forces. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine War: What's behind Ukraine's surprise incursion into Russia's Kursk? × The Russian National Anti-Terrorism Committee announced late Friday (August 9) the start of the "counter-terror operations," to ensure the safety of citizens and neutralising purported terrorist threats posed by Ukrainian sabotage groups. Under Russian law, the declaration of a "counter-terror" operation grants security forces and the military emergency powers. These include restricting movement, seizing vehicles, monitoring communications, designating no-go zones, establishing checkpoints, and bolstering security at critical infrastructure sites. The committee described Ukraine's actions as an "unprecedented attempt to destabilize the situation" in the affected regions and labelled the incursion a "terrorist attack." They also claimed that Ukrainian forces had injured civilians and caused significant damage to residential buildings. Also read | New front opens in Russia-Ukraine war as Moscow launches surprise offensive While Ukrainian officials have remained largely silent on the operation, President Volodymyr Zelensky hinted at the success of his troops. He said earlier this week that Russia must "feel" the consequences of its full-scale offensive against Ukraine, which began in February 2022. The United States, a key ally of Ukraine, said that it was not informed of the operation in advance. On Saturday, Russia's defence ministry released footage of tank crews firing on Ukrainian positions in the Kursk region, along with footage of an overnight air strike. The ministry also claimed that 26 Ukrainian drones attempting to attack the region were shot down overnight. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Russia launches 'counter terror operation' to halt Ukrainian advances

Justice Md Ashfaqul Islam was appointed as acting chief justice of Bangladesh on Saturday. The news was&nbsp;confirmed&nbsp;by the Supreme Court's Public Relations Officer,&nbsp;Md Shafiqul Islam, following the resignation of&nbsp;Obaidul Hassan. Amid a series of terror attacks in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, two Indian Army soldiers were killed and two civilians were injured during an encounter in the Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. In other news,&nbsp;CAS has postponed for a day its verdict on Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's&nbsp;disqualification in the Paris Olympics.

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-unrest-chief-justice-says-he-will-resign-after-protest-ultimatum-748936">Bangladesh gets acting chief justice after Obaidul Hassan's resignation</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/10/448606-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=400" />

Appellate Division Justice Md Ashfaqul Islam was&nbsp;appointed as the acting chief justice of Bangladesh on Saturday after the resignation of&nbsp;Obaidul Hassan on Saturday (Aug 10)&nbsp;in the face of the protests against the previous government led by ousted&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;Sheikh Hasina, local media reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-two-indian-army-soldiers-killed-two-civilians-injured-during-kokernag-gunfight-749017">Jammu and Kashmir: Two Indian army soldiers killed, two civilians injured during Kokernag gunfight</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/07/442149-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" />

Two Indian Army soldiers were killed and two civilians were injured during an encounter in the Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russian-embassy-in-delhi-says-indian-nationals-voluntarily-contracted-for-military-service-748999">Russian embassy in Delhi says Indian nationals 'voluntarily contracted for military service'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/10/448647-indiansinrussia.png?imwidth=400" />

Russia on Saturday (August 10) denied being engaged in any "public or obscure campaigns" in "fraudulent schemes" to recruit Indian nationals in the country's military amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poll-shows-trump-lagging-4-points-behind-harris-in-key-swing-states-749028">Harris leads Trump by four points in three key US states: Poll</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/01/446818-new-wion-2024-08-01t083436449.png?imwidth=400" />

With less than three months to go for the United States presidential&nbsp;election, Vice President Kamala Harris is ahead of&nbsp;former US President Donald&nbsp;Trump by four&nbsp;points in three key states.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-trainee-doctor-sexually-assaulted-murdered-cm-mamata-banerjee-promises-strict-action-748978">Kolkata trainee doctor sexually assaulted, murdered; CM Mamata Banerjee promises strict action</a> 
 
<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/10/448632-hyderabadprotest.png?imwidth=400" />

The post-mortem of a female trainee doctor found dead at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in the Indian city of&nbsp;Kolkata has confirmed that she was sexually assaulted before being murdered, media reports said while citing a senior police official on Saturday (August 10).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wayanad-landslides-pm-modi-conducts-aerial-survey-of-disaster-hit-areas-meets-victims-families-748975">Wayanad landslides: PM Modi conducts aerial survey of disaster-hit areas, meets victims' families</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/10/448630-wayanad-landslides.png?imwidth=400" />

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (August 10) conducted an aerial survey of disaster-hit areas in the Indian state of Kerala's&nbsp;Wayanad district&nbsp;where landslides claimed hundreds of lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-rains-mcds-slumber-continues-as-another-building-collapse-claims-life-749015">Delhi rains: MCD’s slumber continues as another building collapse claims life</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/10/448654-screenshot-2024-08-10-195156.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Heavy rains have been lashing the Indian capital city of Delhi over the past weeks, unsafe buildings are collapsing like a house of cards and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is still sitting on a city-wide survey.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/jaishankar-in-maldives-india-delivers-drinking-water-project-greater-male-connectivity-project-in-focus-749023">Jaishankar in Maldives: India delivers drinking water project; Greater Malé Connectivity Project in focus</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/10/448657-jaishankarmaldives.png?imwidth=400" />

In a major high-level interaction between India and the Maldives, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is visiting the South Asian archipelago nation amid months of bilateral unease between the two sides since pro-China President Muhammad Muizzu was elected to power on an 'India Out' plank.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-vinesh-phogat-disqualification-cas-verdict-postponed-till-august-11-in-paris-olympics-case-749030">Vinesh Phogat disqualification: CAS verdict postponed till August 11 in Paris Olympics case</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/08/448220-paris-olympics-2024-social-media-reacts-to-vinesh-phogats-shock-retirement.jpg?imwidth=400" />

India’s Vinesh Phogat will have to wait for another day as the verdict for her Paris Olympics disqualification was postponed to Sunday (Aug 11).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kanyes-wife-bianca-censori-exposes-butt-cheeks-in-dangerously-short-dress-netizens-are-disgusted-748950">Kanye's wife Bianca Censori exposes butt cheeks in dangerously short dress; netizens are disgusted</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/10/448608-untitled-design-65.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Kanye West aka Ye's wife Bianca Censori is no stranger to stirring pots with her controversial outfits. The Australian architect and model is often trolled online for wearing next to nothing on the streets.

Justice Md Ashfaqul Islam was appointed as acting chief justice of Bangladesh on Saturday. The news was confirmed by the Supreme Court's Public Relations Officer, Md Shafiqul Islam, following the resignation of Obaidul Hassan.

Justice Md Ashfaqul Islam was appointed as acting chief justice of Bangladesh on Saturday. The news was confirmed by the Supreme Court's Public Relations Officer, Md Shafiqul Islam, following the resignation of Obaidul Hassan. Amid a series of terror attacks in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, two Indian Army soldiers were killed and two civilians were injured during an encounter in the Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. In other news, CAS has postponed for a day its verdict on Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification in the Paris Olympics. Click on the headlines to read more Bangladesh gets acting chief justice after Obaidul Hassan's resignation Appellate Division Justice Md Ashfaqul Islam was appointed as the acting chief justice of Bangladesh on Saturday after the resignation of Obaidul Hassan on Saturday (Aug 10) in the face of the protests against the previous government led by ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, local media reported. Jammu and Kashmir: Two Indian army soldiers killed, two civilians injured during Kokernag gunfight Two Indian Army soldiers were killed and two civilians were injured during an encounter in the Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. Russian embassy in Delhi says Indian nationals 'voluntarily contracted for military service' Russia on Saturday (August 10) denied being engaged in any "public or obscure campaigns" in "fraudulent schemes" to recruit Indian nationals in the country's military amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Harris leads Trump by four points in three key US states: Poll With less than three months to go for the United States presidential election, Vice President Kamala Harris is ahead of former US President Donald Trump by four points in three key states. Kolkata trainee doctor sexually assaulted, murdered; CM Mamata Banerjee promises strict action The post-mortem of a female trainee doctor found dead at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in the Indian city of Kolkata has confirmed that she was sexually assaulted before being murdered, media reports said while citing a senior police official on Saturday (August 10). Wayanad landslides: PM Modi conducts aerial survey of disaster-hit areas, meets victims' families Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (August 10) conducted an aerial survey of disaster-hit areas in the Indian state of Kerala's Wayanad district where landslides claimed hundreds of lives. Delhi rains: MCD’s slumber continues as another building collapse claims life Heavy rains have been lashing the Indian capital city of Delhi over the past weeks, unsafe buildings are collapsing like a house of cards and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is still sitting on a city-wide survey. Jaishankar in Maldives: India delivers drinking water project; Greater Malé Connectivity Project in focus In a major high-level interaction between India and the Maldives, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is visiting the South Asian archipelago nation amid months of bilateral unease between the two sides since pro-China President Muhammad Muizzu was elected to power on an 'India Out' plank. Vinesh Phogat disqualification: CAS verdict postponed till August 11 in Paris Olympics case India’s Vinesh Phogat will have to wait for another day as the verdict for her Paris Olympics disqualification was postponed to Sunday (Aug 11). Kanye's wife Bianca Censori exposes butt cheeks in dangerously short dress; netizens are disgusted Kanye West aka Ye's wife Bianca Censori is no stranger to stirring pots with her controversial outfits. The Australian architect and model is often trolled online for wearing next to nothing on the streets.

Top 10 world news: Bangladesh unrest; two soldiers killed in Jammu-Kashmir, and more

With less than three months to go for the United States presidential&nbsp;election, Vice President Kamala Harris is ahead of&nbsp;former US President Donald&nbsp;Trump by four&nbsp;points in three key states, according to recent polling by&nbsp;The New York Times/Siena College.

According to the poll, which was released early on Saturday (Aug 10),&nbsp;Harris is now ahead of the former president in the US states of&nbsp;Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania. In the hypothetical contest, Harris received 50 per cent&nbsp;of the vote against 46 per cent&nbsp;for Trump. &nbsp;among likely voters in all three states.

In the same swing states, Harris'&nbsp;numbers show a notable improvement over those of President Joe Biden.

Earlier this year, in two different NYT/Siena surveys conducted in Pennsylvania, Biden received 45 per cent&nbsp;of the vote compared to 48 per cent&nbsp;for Trump.

In April and early May polls, however, the incumbent president was ahead of his Republican opponent in Michigan (47 per cent to 46 per cent) but behind Trump in Wisconsin (46 per cent to 47 per cent).

Democrats have been very welcoming and supportive of Harris since she launched her presidential campaign last month after Biden&nbsp;dropped out from the 2024 presidential race. Earlier this week, she picked&nbsp;Minnesota Governor&nbsp;Tim Walz (D) as her running mate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-set-to-crack-down-on-overseas-hiring-current-system-not-operating-in-national-interest-749007">UK government set to crack down on overseas hiring. Here's how it will affect Indians</a>

This week, Harris has been to several important battleground states, including Wisconsin and Michigan, to campaign. According to her team, 14,000 people showed up for her Tuesday (Aug 6)&nbsp;event in Philadelphia and another 15,000 showed up for her Wednesday (Aug 7)&nbsp;night rally in Detroit.

When asked if they were pleased with their party's nominee, the majority of poll participants responded positively.

When it came to party satisfaction, Democrats were more inclined than Republicans to indicate they were happy with their nominee (87 per cent&nbsp;to&nbsp;79 per cent). According to the survey, just 12 per cent&nbsp;of Democrats and 19 per cent&nbsp;of Republicans expressed dissatisfaction.

According to the study, almost 60 per cent&nbsp;of independent voters voiced satisfaction, while only 37 per cent&nbsp;disagreed.

(With inputs from agencies)

With less than three months to go for the United States presidential election, Vice President Kamala Harris is ahead of former US President Donald Trump by four points in three key states, according to recent polling by The New York Times/Siena College.

With less than three months to go for the United States presidential election, Vice President Kamala Harris is ahead of former US President Donald Trump by four points in three key states, according to recent polling by The New York Times/Siena College. According to the poll, which was released early on Saturday (Aug 10), Harris is now ahead of the former president in the US states of Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania. In the hypothetical contest, Harris received 50 per cent of the vote against 46 per cent for Trump. among likely voters in all three states. In the same swing states, Harris' numbers show a notable improvement over those of President Joe Biden. Earlier this year, in two different NYT/Siena surveys conducted in Pennsylvania, Biden received 45 per cent of the vote compared to 48 per cent for Trump. In April and early May polls, however, the incumbent president was ahead of his Republican opponent in Michigan (47 per cent to 46 per cent) but behind Trump in Wisconsin (46 per cent to 47 per cent). Democrats have been very welcoming and supportive of Harris since she launched her presidential campaign last month after Biden dropped out from the 2024 presidential race. Earlier this week, she picked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (D) as her running mate. Also read: UK government set to crack down on overseas hiring. Here's how it will affect Indians This week, Harris has been to several important battleground states, including Wisconsin and Michigan, to campaign. According to her team, 14,000 people showed up for her Tuesday (Aug 6) event in Philadelphia and another 15,000 showed up for her Wednesday (Aug 7) night rally in Detroit. When asked if they were pleased with their party's nominee, the majority of poll participants responded positively. When it came to party satisfaction, Democrats were more inclined than Republicans to indicate they were happy with their nominee (87 per cent to 79 per cent). According to the survey, just 12 per cent of Democrats and 19 per cent of Republicans expressed dissatisfaction. According to the study, almost 60 per cent of independent voters voiced satisfaction, while only 37 per cent disagreed. (With inputs from agencies)

Harris leads Trump by four points in three key US states: Poll

Hundreds of people protested in the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka on Friday against violence targeting the country's minority Hindus since former prime minister Sheikh Hasina quit and fled the country earlier this week.

Bangladesh: Hundreds of Hindus protest against violence

The Islamic Republic promised to honor any Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal accepted by Hamas, but still intends to punish Israel, Iran’s Mission to the UN said in a statement on Friday.

US ready to defend Israel in fight against Iran and proxies

Ukrainian soldiers have made advances of up to 10 kilometres into the Kursk region during an incursion into Russian territory that is entering its third day. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia's bold incursion into Russia's Kursk

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Friday that its navy has put into service high-explosive, undetectable anti-ship cruise missiles.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards showcase undetectable cruise missiles

As tectonic plates shift beneath the land of the rising Sun, Japan finds itself on the brink of potential disaster. In an unprecedented move the nation has issued a stark warning about the looming threat of a catastrophic earthquake our next report tells you more. Watch in for more details!

Japan warns of heightened risk of devastating megaquake

New poll of Americans living in the swing states is testimony why this election is being called a polarizing one. It finds Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump in a statistical dead heat. Watch in for more details!

US Elections 2024: What's the mood in swing states?

A fisherman in the United Kingdom&nbsp;reeled in a rare Lego shark&nbsp;27 years after it went missing from a container of shipping cargo in the 1990s.

The toy is one of the five&nbsp;million pieces lost&nbsp;in&nbsp;the "Great Lego Spill of 1997," when a freak wave hit a cargo ship called the Tokio Express off the coast of Cornwall. The pieces from the spill&nbsp;still wash&nbsp;up on shore&nbsp;today.

The 35-year-old fisherman,&nbsp;Richard West, found the lost shark 20 miles south of Penzance on Tuesday (Aug 6). He later&nbsp;contacted the project Lego Lost at Sea, whose founder Tracey Williams confirmed the piece to be the first-ever reported shark from the spill.

West said, "It's way better than any fish I've caught all week. I'm so happy about it."

The fisherman&nbsp;said he pulled the object from on top of his fishing nets while aboard the Defiant FY848 on a mission to catch monkfish and sole.

"I could tell straight away what it was because I had Lego sharks in the pirate ship set when I was little. I loved them," West told the BBC. "It's been 25 years since I've seen that face."

The plastic object, called Sharky by West, is worn out by time submerged for over two decades. It is also missing the dorsal fin. The Lego models remain&nbsp;under the sea as&nbsp;they waste away into smaller and smaller pieces before&nbsp;finally turning into microplastics.

Williams said the sharks were in sets released in 1997 such as Shark Cage Cove, Shark Attack, and Deep Sea Bounty. The official Lego inventory stated that there were 22,200 dark grey Lego sharks and 29,600 light grey sharks inside the missing container – a total of 51,800 sharks.

"Richard and I now have joint custody of the shark," Williams added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-set-to-crack-down-on-overseas-hiring-current-system-not-operating-in-national-interest-749007">UK government set to crack down on overseas hiring. Here's how it will affect Indians</a>

Most of the pieces found in the container have sea themes, as seen in rafts, scuba tanks, cutlasses, flippers, and seagrass.

Williams started the Lego Lost at Sea project as a "bit of fun" during the summer holidays, but over 80,000 Facebook and X followers later, Williams has united a global community of beachcombers monitoring where the Lego and other cargo spills are turning up. She also published a book in 2022 showcasing her work.&nbsp;

The project has also helped to put a spotlight on the waste that fills Britain's beaches and serves as an archive of our times, said Williams. "It's inspired the public into beach cleaning and other environmental action," said the project's founder, adding, "and it helps explain things like ocean currents and the dangers of plastic pollution.&nbsp;

Although so much plastic on the beach can be overwhelming, sorting through it can be strangely cathartic. It's order from chaos." Williams has already started mapping the finds for a scientific paper on the spill, and she urges anyone who has found any of the pieces to get in touch with Lego Lost at Sea.

(With inputs from agencies)

A fisherman in the United Kingdom reeled in a rare Lego shark 27 years after it went missing from a container of shipping cargo in the 1990s. The toy is one of the five million pieces lost in the "Great Lego Spill of 1997," when a freak wave hit a cargo ship called the Tokio Express off the coast of Cornwall.

A fisherman in the United Kingdom reeled in a rare Lego shark 27 years after it went missing from a container of shipping cargo in the 1990s. The toy is one of the five million pieces lost in the "Great Lego Spill of 1997," when a freak wave hit a cargo ship called the Tokio Express off the coast of Cornwall. The pieces from the spill still wash up on shore today. The 35-year-old fisherman, Richard West, found the lost shark 20 miles south of Penzance on Tuesday (Aug 6). He later contacted the project Lego Lost at Sea, whose founder Tracey Williams confirmed the piece to be the first-ever reported shark from the spill. West said, "It's way better than any fish I've caught all week. I'm so happy about it." The fisherman said he pulled the object from on top of his fishing nets while aboard the Defiant FY848 on a mission to catch monkfish and sole. "I could tell straight away what it was because I had Lego sharks in the pirate ship set when I was little. I loved them," West told the BBC. "It's been 25 years since I've seen that face." The plastic object, called Sharky by West, is worn out by time submerged for over two decades. It is also missing the dorsal fin. The Lego models remain under the sea as they waste away into smaller and smaller pieces before finally turning into microplastics. Williams said the sharks were in sets released in 1997 such as Shark Cage Cove, Shark Attack, and Deep Sea Bounty. The official Lego inventory stated that there were 22,200 dark grey Lego sharks and 29,600 light grey sharks inside the missing container – a total of 51,800 sharks. "Richard and I now have joint custody of the shark," Williams added. Also read: UK government set to crack down on overseas hiring. Here's how it will affect Indians Most of the pieces found in the container have sea themes, as seen in rafts, scuba tanks, cutlasses, flippers, and seagrass. Williams started the Lego Lost at Sea project as a "bit of fun" during the summer holidays, but over 80,000 Facebook and X followers later, Williams has united a global community of beachcombers monitoring where the Lego and other cargo spills are turning up. She also published a book in 2022 showcasing her work. The project has also helped to put a spotlight on the waste that fills Britain's beaches and serves as an archive of our times, said Williams. "It's inspired the public into beach cleaning and other environmental action," said the project's founder, adding, "and it helps explain things like ocean currents and the dangers of plastic pollution. Although so much plastic on the beach can be overwhelming, sorting through it can be strangely cathartic. It's order from chaos." Williams has already started mapping the finds for a scientific paper on the spill, and she urges anyone who has found any of the pieces to get in touch with Lego Lost at Sea. (With inputs from agencies)

Fisherman finds rare Lego shark from 1997 spill, first reported piece in 27 years

Protests in Bangladesh have not died down latest the country's chief justice who is also a close Aide to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina has been forced to step down. Md. Ashfaqul Islam has been appointed as the acting chief justice.

Bangladesh crisis: Obaidul Hassan steps down, Ashfaqul Islam becomes acting Chief Justice

Iran has conducted research that “better position it to produce a nuclear device, if it chooses to do so,” the Office of the Director of National Intelligence warned in a July 2024 report. Watch to know more.

US intel warns against Iran's nuclear efforts

The Philippine military on Saturday accused China's air force of "dangerous and provocative actions" against one of its planes patrolling over a disputed South China Sea reef.

Two China air force aircraft "executed a dangerous manoeuvre at around 9:00am and dropped flares in the path of our NC-212i," armed forces chief General Romeo Brawner said in a statement, recounting the alleged incident Thursday "over" Scarborough Shoal.

He said the Chinese action "endangered the lives of our personnel undertaking maritime security operations," adding that the pilot and crew were unharmed and "safely returned" to a northern Philippines air base.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-dhaka-under-turmoil-manila-secures-crucial-diplomatic-win-over-beijing-and-more-742878">The Capitals: Dhaka in turmoil; Manila secures crucial diplomatic win over Beijing; and more</a>

China defended its operations on Saturday, saying it had "organised naval and air forces to lawfully... (drive) away" the Philippine plane, following "repeated warnings", according to a statement by the Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army.

The statement did not say what specific actions China took, describing its operations as "professional, standard, legitimate and legal".

"We sternly warn the Philippines to immediately stop its infringement, provocation, distortion and hype," the statement said, adding that "China has indisputable sovereignty over Huangyan Island (Scarborough Shoal) and adjacent waters".

The incident is the latest in an increasingly tense confrontation between Manila and Beijing, which claims most of the South China Sea and seized the shoal after a 2012 standoff with the Philippines.

In June, the Philippine military said one of its sailors lost a thumb in a confrontation off Second Thomas Shoal, in another area of the South China Sea, when the Chinese coastguard also confiscated or destroyed Philippine equipment including guns.

Beijing has blamed the escalation on Manila and maintains its actions to protect its claims are legal and proportional.

Following the Second Thomas Shoal clash, the two countries agreed on a "provisional arrangement" for resupplying Filipino troops based on a decrepit warship grounded atop the reef, and also to increase the number of communication lines to resolve disputes in the waterway.

The Chinese air force action Thursday took place a day after China carried out a combat patrol near the flashpoint reef to test the "strike capabilities" of its troops.

Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea, brushing off rival claims of several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, and an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

Also watch |&nbsp;China-Philippines maritime standoff escalates, Beijing blames Manila for grounded ship

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Scarborough Shoal, a triangular chain of reefs and rocks, is 240 kilometres (150 miles) west of the Philippines' main island of Luzon and nearly 900 kilometres from the nearest major Chinese land mass of Hainan.

Brawner said the Philippine military "strongly condemns the dangerous and provocative actions of the People's Liberation Army Air Force that endangered the lives of our personnel undertaking maritime security operations recently within Philippine maritime zones".

"The incident posed a threat to Philippine Air Force aircraft and its crew, interfered with lawful flight operations in airspace within Philippine sovereignty and jurisdiction, and contravened international law and regulations governing safety of aviation," he added.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The Philippine military on Saturday accused China's air force of "dangerous and provocative actions" against one of its planes patrolling over a disputed South China Sea reef.

The Philippine military on Saturday accused China's air force of "dangerous and provocative actions" against one of its planes patrolling over a disputed South China Sea reef. Two China air force aircraft "executed a dangerous manoeuvre at around 9:00am and dropped flares in the path of our NC-212i," armed forces chief General Romeo Brawner said in a statement, recounting the alleged incident Thursday "over" Scarborough Shoal. He said the Chinese action "endangered the lives of our personnel undertaking maritime security operations," adding that the pilot and crew were unharmed and "safely returned" to a northern Philippines air base. Also read | The Capitals: Dhaka in turmoil; Manila secures crucial diplomatic win over Beijing; and more China defended its operations on Saturday, saying it had "organised naval and air forces to lawfully... (drive) away" the Philippine plane, following "repeated warnings", according to a statement by the Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army. The statement did not say what specific actions China took, describing its operations as "professional, standard, legitimate and legal". "We sternly warn the Philippines to immediately stop its infringement, provocation, distortion and hype," the statement said, adding that "China has indisputable sovereignty over Huangyan Island (Scarborough Shoal) and adjacent waters". The incident is the latest in an increasingly tense confrontation between Manila and Beijing, which claims most of the South China Sea and seized the shoal after a 2012 standoff with the Philippines. In June, the Philippine military said one of its sailors lost a thumb in a confrontation off Second Thomas Shoal, in another area of the South China Sea, when the Chinese coastguard also confiscated or destroyed Philippine equipment including guns. Beijing has blamed the escalation on Manila and maintains its actions to protect its claims are legal and proportional. Following the Second Thomas Shoal clash, the two countries agreed on a "provisional arrangement" for resupplying Filipino troops based on a decrepit warship grounded atop the reef, and also to increase the number of communication lines to resolve disputes in the waterway. The Chinese air force action Thursday took place a day after China carried out a combat patrol near the flashpoint reef to test the "strike capabilities" of its troops. Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea, brushing off rival claims of several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, and an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis. Also watch | China-Philippines maritime standoff escalates, Beijing blames Manila for grounded ship × Scarborough Shoal, a triangular chain of reefs and rocks, is 240 kilometres (150 miles) west of the Philippines' main island of Luzon and nearly 900 kilometres from the nearest major Chinese land mass of Hainan. Brawner said the Philippine military "strongly condemns the dangerous and provocative actions of the People's Liberation Army Air Force that endangered the lives of our personnel undertaking maritime security operations recently within Philippine maritime zones". "The incident posed a threat to Philippine Air Force aircraft and its crew, interfered with lawful flight operations in airspace within Philippine sovereignty and jurisdiction, and contravened international law and regulations governing safety of aviation," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chinese Air Force harass Filipino troops over disputed reef, says Manila

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