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The ground temperature across ice sheet-Antarctica soared at an average of 10 degree Celsius above normal over the past month. The concerning and rare phenomenon is being described as a near record heatwave at one of world’s coldest places.

The world experienced 12 months of record warmth, with temperatures consistently exceeding the 1.5 degree Celsius rise above preindustrial levels that has been touted as the limit to avoiding the worst of climate overhaul.

While on the polar land mass, temperatures have remained below zero, the depths of southern hemisphere winter have reportedly reached 28 degrees Celsius above expectations on some days.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjG3bOM9NWHAxXrhlYBHS8XE0QQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/antarctica-likely-warming-much-faster-than-prediction-of-climate-change-models-study-633633" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/antarctica-likely-warming-much-faster-than-prediction-of-climate-change-models-study-633633&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjG3bOM9NWHAxXrhlYBHS8XE0QQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Antarctica likely warming much faster than climate change models predicted: Study</a>

Michael Dukes, the director of forecasting at MetDesk, said that while individual daily high temperatures were surprising, far more significant was the average rise over the month.

The models created by climate scientists have long predicted that the most significant effects of anthropogenic climate change would be on polar regions, “and this is a great example of that”, Dukes said.

“Usually you can’t just look at one month for a climate trend but it is right in line with what models predict,” he added.&nbsp;

“In Antarctica generally that kind of warming in the winter and continuing in to summer months can lead to collapsing of the ice sheets," Dukes further said.

Watch |&nbsp;Global warming worsened loss of sea ice | WION Climate Tracker

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This year in July, it was the first time in 14 months that temperature records were not broken.

Zeke Hausfather, a research scientist at Berkeley Earth, said Antarctica’s heatwave had “definitely been one of the bigger drivers in the spike of global temperatures in recent weeks”.

“Antarctica as a whole has warmed along with the world over the past 50 years, and for that matter 150 years, so any heatwave is starting off from that elevated baseline,” he said and added, “But it’s safe to say that the majority of the spike in the last month was driven by the heatwave.”

<h2>What is making the Antarctic region so warm?</h2>

In the past two years,&nbsp;heatwave has hit twice in the region, with the last being in March 2022, when temperature spiked to 39 degrees Celsius, causing a portion of the ice sheet the size of Rome to collapse!

Here also, we have El Nino to blame as Antarctica’s increased July temperatures follow a particularly strong El Nino.&nbsp;

This climate phenomenon has led to warming around the world in combination with the general increase in temperatures caused by climate breakdown, Dukes said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjG3bOM9NWHAxXrhlYBHS8XE0QQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/climate-change-we-instigated-is-here-to-stay-for-at-least-50000-years-study-668077" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/climate-change-we-instigated-is-here-to-stay-for-at-least-50000-years-study-668077&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjG3bOM9NWHAxXrhlYBHS8XE0QQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Climate change we instigated is here to stay for at least 50,000 years: Study</a>

However, some experts attribute the heatwave in Antarctica to a weeks-long “southern stratospheric warming event” over the region.&nbsp;

“Those are really rare over Antarctica, so it wasn’t really quite clear how that would affect surface conditions on the continent,” said Jonathan Wille, a researcher studying climate science at ETH Zürich, a public research university in Zürich, Switzerland. &nbsp;

Though&nbsp;there “seem to be more and more frequent heatwaves over the continent”, it was not yet clear how much of a factor the climate crisis had been in creating this particular event, said Dukes.

(With inputs from agencies)

The ground temperature across ice sheet-Antarctica soared at an average of 10 degree Celsius above normal over the past month. The concerning and rare phenomenon is being described as a near record heatwave at one of world’s coldest places.

The ground temperature across ice sheet-Antarctica soared at an average of 10 degree Celsius above normal over the past month. The concerning and rare phenomenon is being described as a near record heatwave at one of world’s coldest places. The world experienced 12 months of record warmth, with temperatures consistently exceeding the 1.5 degree Celsius rise above preindustrial levels that has been touted as the limit to avoiding the worst of climate overhaul. While on the polar land mass, temperatures have remained below zero, the depths of southern hemisphere winter have reportedly reached 28 degrees Celsius above expectations on some days. Also Read | Antarctica likely warming much faster than climate change models predicted: Study Michael Dukes, the director of forecasting at MetDesk, said that while individual daily high temperatures were surprising, far more significant was the average rise over the month. The models created by climate scientists have long predicted that the most significant effects of anthropogenic climate change would be on polar regions, “and this is a great example of that”, Dukes said. “Usually you can’t just look at one month for a climate trend but it is right in line with what models predict,” he added. “In Antarctica generally that kind of warming in the winter and continuing in to summer months can lead to collapsing of the ice sheets," Dukes further said. Watch | Global warming worsened loss of sea ice | WION Climate Tracker × This year in July, it was the first time in 14 months that temperature records were not broken. Zeke Hausfather, a research scientist at Berkeley Earth, said Antarctica’s heatwave had “definitely been one of the bigger drivers in the spike of global temperatures in recent weeks”. “Antarctica as a whole has warmed along with the world over the past 50 years, and for that matter 150 years, so any heatwave is starting off from that elevated baseline,” he said and added, “But it’s safe to say that the majority of the spike in the last month was driven by the heatwave.” What is making the Antarctic region so warm? In the past two years, heatwave has hit twice in the region, with the last being in March 2022, when temperature spiked to 39 degrees Celsius, causing a portion of the ice sheet the size of Rome to collapse! Here also, we have El Nino to blame as Antarctica’s increased July temperatures follow a particularly strong El Nino. This climate phenomenon has led to warming around the world in combination with the general increase in temperatures caused by climate breakdown, Dukes said. Also Read | Climate change we instigated is here to stay for at least 50,000 years: Study However, some experts attribute the heatwave in Antarctica to a weeks-long “southern stratospheric warming event” over the region. “Those are really rare over Antarctica, so it wasn’t really quite clear how that would affect surface conditions on the continent,” said Jonathan Wille, a researcher studying climate science at ETH Zürich, a public research university in Zürich, Switzerland. Though there “seem to be more and more frequent heatwaves over the continent”, it was not yet clear how much of a factor the climate crisis had been in creating this particular event, said Dukes. (With inputs from agencies)

Antarctic temperatures rise 10C above average, experts are calling it a near-record heatwave

Faced with a declining birth rate and ageing population, China is experiencing a shortage of schoolchildren. As a result, multiple provinces are scaling back teacher hiring, according to a report in South China Morning Post.

Major cutback in teaching jobs, traditionally seen as secure and prestigious in China, are worsening the country's employment challenges. With a massive labour force, particularly among young people, creating sufficient jobs has become increasingly difficult.

Education authorities in the eastern province of Jiangxi informed this year’s new preschool, primary and secondary school teaching positions would be cut by 54.7 percent to 4,968 – less than one-third of its recruitment two years ago.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-and-harris-to-welcome-freed-americans-arriving-from-russia-746431">Freed Americans return home following historic prisoner swap</a>

While in the neighbouring Hubei province, employment of schoolteachers has dropped by one-fifth over the same period.

Main reason for the decline drop appears to be the declining numbers of schoolchildren, as China experiences a period of “ultra-low” fertility, with fewer than 1.4 live births per woman over a lifetime.

As per the Jiangxi authorities, the province’s population share of children aged 0-15 has declined in each of the past four years, with a drop of 480,900 last year – the biggest decline since 2020.

With a drop in student numbers, the department has determined that education resources need restructuring. This decision comes as 20% of rural schools with fewer than 100 pupils have been shut down.

Same circumstances prevail in central China’s Hunan province. Last year&nbsp;education authorities&nbsp;announced there would be no new kindergartens built in rural areas.

Notably, the total number of children in Hunan’s kindergartens decreased by 14.79 per cent to 319,400 in 2023, compared to the last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/she-screamed-and-screamed-why-was-egyptian-mummys-face-so-contorted-scientists-have-a-clue-746510">She screamed and screamed: Why was Egyptian Mummy's face so contorted? Scientists have a clue</a>

A similar condition prevailed across the country, with national data showing a decline in the number of preschool children for the third consecutive year.

The Ministry of Education report shows that there were fewer than 275,000 kindergartens previous year – a drop of 14,800 from 2022. Enrolments declined in the same period by 5.35 million to 40.9 million.

(With inputs from agencies)

Faced with a declining birth rate and ageing population, China is experiencing a shortage of schoolchildren. As a result, multiple provinces are scaling back teacher hiring, according to a report in South China Morning Post.

Faced with a declining birth rate and ageing population, China is experiencing a shortage of schoolchildren. As a result, multiple provinces are scaling back teacher hiring, according to a report in South China Morning Post. Major cutback in teaching jobs, traditionally seen as secure and prestigious in China, are worsening the country's employment challenges. With a massive labour force, particularly among young people, creating sufficient jobs has become increasingly difficult. Education authorities in the eastern province of Jiangxi informed this year’s new preschool, primary and secondary school teaching positions would be cut by 54.7 percent to 4,968 – less than one-third of its recruitment two years ago. Also read: Freed Americans return home following historic prisoner swap While in the neighbouring Hubei province, employment of schoolteachers has dropped by one-fifth over the same period. Main reason for the decline drop appears to be the declining numbers of schoolchildren, as China experiences a period of “ultra-low” fertility, with fewer than 1.4 live births per woman over a lifetime. As per the Jiangxi authorities, the province’s population share of children aged 0-15 has declined in each of the past four years, with a drop of 480,900 last year – the biggest decline since 2020. With a drop in student numbers, the department has determined that education resources need restructuring. This decision comes as 20% of rural schools with fewer than 100 pupils have been shut down. Same circumstances prevail in central China’s Hunan province. Last year education authorities announced there would be no new kindergartens built in rural areas. Notably, the total number of children in Hunan’s kindergartens decreased by 14.79 per cent to 319,400 in 2023, compared to the last year. Also read: She screamed and screamed: Why was Egyptian Mummy's face so contorted? Scientists have a clue A similar condition prevailed across the country, with national data showing a decline in the number of preschool children for the third consecutive year. The Ministry of Education report shows that there were fewer than 275,000 kindergartens previous year – a drop of 14,800 from 2022. Enrolments declined in the same period by 5.35 million to 40.9 million. (With inputs from agencies)

Schools in China closing amid population decline

Top Iranian officials will meet the representatives of Iran's regional allies from Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen on Thursday to discuss potential retaliation against Israel after the killing of the Hamas leader in Tehran

West Asia Tensions: Iran and its proxies will meet to discuss retaliation against Israel

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh will be buried in Qatar on Friday following his assassination in the Iranian capital Tehran, one in a series of killings of senior figures in the Palestinian militant group as the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages.

Haniyeh will be interred in a cemetery after funeral prayers in the city of Lusail, north of Qatar's capital Doha.

Hamas politburo member Izzat al-Rishq called on people to pray for his soul in all mosques around the world.

"Let today, Friday, be a day of overwhelming anger denouncing the assassination crime and rejecting the genocide in the Gaza Strip," he said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-provide-more-arms-to-israel-amid-triple-threat-of-hamas-iran-and-hezbollah-746467">More US arms to Israel amid triple threat of Hamas, Iran and Hezbollah?</a>

Haniyeh was killed by a missile that hit him directly in a state guesthouse in Tehran where he was staying, senior Hamas official Khalil Al-Hayya told a news conference in the Iranian capital, quoting witnesses who were with him.

Iran and Hamas have both accused Israel of carrying out the killing and have pledged to retaliate against their foe. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the death nor denied it.

The strike was one of several that have killed senior figures in Hamas or the Lebanese movement Hezbollah, fuelling concern that the war in Gaza between Israel and Palestinian militants is turning into a regional conflict stretching from the Red Sea to the Lebanon-Israel border and beyond.

In the United States, U.S. President Joe Biden said Haniyeh's killingwas not helpful to international efforts to secure a ceasefire in the war in Gaza, now in its 10th month.

"It doesn't help," Biden told reporters on Thursday, when asked if the action ruined the chances of a truce.

Qatar has been leading the peace effort along with Egypt and the United States, Israel's main ally.

WIDOW MOURNS

Haniyeh had been the face of Hamas's international diplomacy as war raged back in Gaza and had taken part in the indirect ceasefire talks.

He was seen by many diplomats as a moderate compared to the more hardline members of the Iran-backed group inside Gaza, although some Israeli commentators have said he was considered by some on the Israeli side as an obstacle to a deal.

Appointed to the Hamas top job in 2017, he moved between Turkey and Doha, escaping the travel curbs of the blockaded Gaza Strip.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-haniyeh-was-killed-by-bomb-hidden-two-months-ago-in-tehran-guesthouse-746338">Hamas chief Haniyeh was killed by bomb hidden two months ago in Tehran guesthouse: Report</a>

In May, the International Criminal Court prosecutor's office requested arrest warrants for three Hamas leaders, including Haniyeh, as well as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged war crimes. Israel and Palestinian leaders have dismissed the allegations.

Iran's first vice president Mohammad Reza Aref left Tehran for Doha to attend Haniyeh's funeral after the Islamic Republic held its own ceremony on Thursday which was attended by his widow Amal Haniyeh.

"Say hello to all the martyrs of Gaza, say hello to the leaders, to all Gaza's martyrs, all the Muslims," Amal Haniyeh said as she mourned beside his coffin.

While Israel has not said it carried out the killing, it has announced that an air strike it mounted last month killed the elusive Hamas military leader Mohammed Deif in Gaza. Hamas has not confirmed or denied the death of Deif.

Hezbollah confirmed on Wednesday that its senior military commander Fuad Shukr had been killed in an Israeli strike on a building in Beirut.

Hezbollah vowed on Thursday a "definite" response to Shukr's killing, saying it had crossed red lines and that the decades-old rivalry between foes had entered a new phase.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-confirms-hamas-military-leader-deifs-death-in-airstrike-day-after-haniyehs-assassination-746225">Israel confirms Hamas military leader Deif’s death in airstrike, day after Haniyeh's assassination</a>

"We are looking for a real response, not a performative response, and for real opportunities. A studied response," said Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, speaking in a televised address to mark the funeral of the slain commander.

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.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh will be buried in Qatar on Friday following his assassination in the Iranian capital Tehran, one in a series of killings of senior figures in the Palestinian militant group as the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh will be buried in Qatar on Friday following his assassination in the Iranian capital Tehran, one in a series of killings of senior figures in the Palestinian militant group as the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages. Haniyeh will be interred in a cemetery after funeral prayers in the city of Lusail, north of Qatar's capital Doha. Hamas politburo member Izzat al-Rishq called on people to pray for his soul in all mosques around the world. "Let today, Friday, be a day of overwhelming anger denouncing the assassination crime and rejecting the genocide in the Gaza Strip," he said in a statement. Also read: More US arms to Israel amid triple threat of Hamas, Iran and Hezbollah? Haniyeh was killed by a missile that hit him directly in a state guesthouse in Tehran where he was staying, senior Hamas official Khalil Al-Hayya told a news conference in the Iranian capital, quoting witnesses who were with him. Iran and Hamas have both accused Israel of carrying out the killing and have pledged to retaliate against their foe. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the death nor denied it. The strike was one of several that have killed senior figures in Hamas or the Lebanese movement Hezbollah, fuelling concern that the war in Gaza between Israel and Palestinian militants is turning into a regional conflict stretching from the Red Sea to the Lebanon-Israel border and beyond. In the United States, U.S. President Joe Biden said Haniyeh's killingwas not helpful to international efforts to secure a ceasefire in the war in Gaza, now in its 10th month. "It doesn't help," Biden told reporters on Thursday, when asked if the action ruined the chances of a truce. Qatar has been leading the peace effort along with Egypt and the United States, Israel's main ally. WIDOW MOURNS Haniyeh had been the face of Hamas's international diplomacy as war raged back in Gaza and had taken part in the indirect ceasefire talks. He was seen by many diplomats as a moderate compared to the more hardline members of the Iran-backed group inside Gaza, although some Israeli commentators have said he was considered by some on the Israeli side as an obstacle to a deal. Appointed to the Hamas top job in 2017, he moved between Turkey and Doha, escaping the travel curbs of the blockaded Gaza Strip. Also read: Hamas chief Haniyeh was killed by bomb hidden two months ago in Tehran guesthouse: Report In May, the International Criminal Court prosecutor's office requested arrest warrants for three Hamas leaders, including Haniyeh, as well as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged war crimes. Israel and Palestinian leaders have dismissed the allegations. Iran's first vice president Mohammad Reza Aref left Tehran for Doha to attend Haniyeh's funeral after the Islamic Republic held its own ceremony on Thursday which was attended by his widow Amal Haniyeh. "Say hello to all the martyrs of Gaza, say hello to the leaders, to all Gaza's martyrs, all the Muslims," Amal Haniyeh said as she mourned beside his coffin. While Israel has not said it carried out the killing, it has announced that an air strike it mounted last month killed the elusive Hamas military leader Mohammed Deif in Gaza. Hamas has not confirmed or denied the death of Deif. Hezbollah confirmed on Wednesday that its senior military commander Fuad Shukr had been killed in an Israeli strike on a building in Beirut. Hezbollah vowed on Thursday a "definite" response to Shukr's killing, saying it had crossed red lines and that the decades-old rivalry between foes had entered a new phase. Also read: Israel confirms Hamas military leader Deif’s death in airstrike, day after Haniyeh's assassination "We are looking for a real response, not a performative response, and for real opportunities. A studied response," said Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, speaking in a televised address to mark the funeral of the slain commander. 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.

Funeral for slain Hamas leader Haniyeh to be held in Qatar

Donald Trump's lawyers again asked the judge overseeing the former U.S. president's criminal trial on charges stemming from hush money paid to a porn star to recuse himself, citing his daughter's work for Vice President Kamala Harris.

Trump seeks recusal of hush money judge over daughter's work for Harris

The Ice Bucket Challenge that went viral in 2014, raising hundreds of millions of dollars helped identify a new gene behind the neurodegenerative disease ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease.

10 years of Ice Bucket Challenge: Event to renew interest in social media campaigns

The Pakistani army has taken an unprecedented step by directing hundreds of field officers to launch an online campaign against opponents of the ousted prime minister Imran Khan and other opposition figures.

Pakistan Army launches online campaign against critics

In a crucial verdict on Friday, the Supreme Court confirmed that the NEET-UG 2024 examination will not be canceled despite allegations of a paper leak. The bench, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, emphasized that no systemic breach of the exam's sanctity was evident beyond Hazaribagh and Patna.

India: Supreme Court upholds NEET-UG 2024 amid paper leak concerns

Turkey is coordinating an extensive prisoner swap between Russia and Belarus on one side and the United States, Germany and Slovenia on the other. US reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US marine Paul Whelan are among 26 prisoners released.

US-Russia prisoner swap: Released Americans arrive at Joint base Andrews, 26 prisoners released

The African nation of Nigeria is facing a cost of living crisis, and President Bola Tinubu's government is under fire for economic mismanagement.

Nigeria's economic crisis: Inflation all-time high, fuel prices triple

A teenager faced court on Thursday, accused of killing three girls in a stabbing attack. Following the incident, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed plans for a new "national capability" to address the resulting unrest.

The new measures include sharing intelligence, using facial recognition technology more widely, and issuing criminal behaviour orders to prevent troublemakers from moving around, according to the prime minister.

"These thugs are mobile; they move from community to community. We must have a policing response that can do the same," he stated.

Starmer recently held a meeting with police chiefs nationwide to talk about ways to stop the violence that broke out after Monday's killings.

The protests said to be stirred up by far-right groups, expanded from the coastal town where the stabbings took place to other cities in England.

"Shockingly, what we've also seen is marauding mobs on the streets of Southport, attacking the very same police officers who responded to the awful attack on those girls," Starmer told police leaders.

"This government supports the police. It supports what you are doing. And to be absolutely clear, this is not protest, this is violent disorder, and action needs to be taken," he added.

False reports circulating on social media played a role in the violent clashes in Southport. These clashes resulted in bricks being thrown at a mosque and injuries to numerous police officers.

Starmer urged social media companies on Thursday to enforce the law regarding disinformation.

"It's also a crime, and it's happening on your premises," Starmer stated, referring to the spread of false information online that contributed to the violence.

Among the false online posts were claims that the attacker was an "illegal migrant."

Police have accused members of the far-right group, the English Defence League, of involvement. This anti-Islam organisation, established 15 years ago, has supporters known for football-related violence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-hails-release-of-wsj-reporter-evan-gershkovich-other-prisoners-from-russia-brutal-ordeal-is-over-746379">Biden hails release of Gershkovich, Whelan and Kurmasheva from Russia: ‘Brutal ordeal is over’</a>

On Wednesday night outside Downing Street, protesters hurled bottles at police while chanting "Stop the boats," referring to the small vessels used by irregular migrants crossing the Channel.

In Hartlepool, located in northeast England, demonstrators ignited police cars and hurled objects at officers. Authorities reported making eight arrests.

Hartlepool police mentioned that officers were targeted with "missiles, glass bottles, and eggs," resulting in minor injuries for several officers.

Starmer emphasised that while the right to protest must be upheld, "criminals who exploit that right to sow hatred and carry out violent acts will face the full force of the law."

Addressing police chiefs, he stated: "The government will make sure you've got the powers you need, and we will back you in using those powers, and I think it's very important that we say that."

(With inputs from agencies)

A teenager faced court on Thursday, accused of killing three girls in a stabbing attack. Following the incident, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed plans for a new "national capability" to address the resulting unrest.

A teenager faced court on Thursday, accused of killing three girls in a stabbing attack. Following the incident, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed plans for a new "national capability" to address the resulting unrest. The new measures include sharing intelligence, using facial recognition technology more widely, and issuing criminal behaviour orders to prevent troublemakers from moving around, according to the prime minister. "These thugs are mobile; they move from community to community. We must have a policing response that can do the same," he stated. Starmer recently held a meeting with police chiefs nationwide to talk about ways to stop the violence that broke out after Monday's killings. The protests said to be stirred up by far-right groups, expanded from the coastal town where the stabbings took place to other cities in England. "Shockingly, what we've also seen is marauding mobs on the streets of Southport, attacking the very same police officers who responded to the awful attack on those girls," Starmer told police leaders. "This government supports the police. It supports what you are doing. And to be absolutely clear, this is not protest, this is violent disorder, and action needs to be taken," he added. False reports circulating on social media played a role in the violent clashes in Southport. These clashes resulted in bricks being thrown at a mosque and injuries to numerous police officers. Starmer urged social media companies on Thursday to enforce the law regarding disinformation. "It's also a crime, and it's happening on your premises," Starmer stated, referring to the spread of false information online that contributed to the violence. Among the false online posts were claims that the attacker was an "illegal migrant." Police have accused members of the far-right group, the English Defence League, of involvement. This anti-Islam organisation, established 15 years ago, has supporters known for football-related violence. Also read: Biden hails release of Gershkovich, Whelan and Kurmasheva from Russia: ‘Brutal ordeal is over’ On Wednesday night outside Downing Street, protesters hurled bottles at police while chanting "Stop the boats," referring to the small vessels used by irregular migrants crossing the Channel. In Hartlepool, located in northeast England, demonstrators ignited police cars and hurled objects at officers. Authorities reported making eight arrests. Hartlepool police mentioned that officers were targeted with "missiles, glass bottles, and eggs," resulting in minor injuries for several officers. Starmer emphasised that while the right to protest must be upheld, "criminals who exploit that right to sow hatred and carry out violent acts will face the full force of the law." Addressing police chiefs, he stated: "The government will make sure you've got the powers you need, and we will back you in using those powers, and I think it's very important that we say that." (With inputs from agencies)

Southport stabbing: Teen suspect appeared in court; Starmer announces new national security reforms

Headlines of the hour: - Biden: haniyeh killing not helpful for truce - Biden, Harris meet freed Americans - India's top court raps testing agency - Wayanad: Indian Army rescues four - Pakistan military's 'secret' social media plan - Turkey blocks access to Instagram - Intel cuts jobs amid AI struggles - IOC hits back after gender row erupts

Pakistan military's 'secret' social media plan | Wayanad: Indian Army rescues four

A huge controversy has erupted at the Paris Olympics. Italian boxer Angela Carini has quit her bout against Algeria's Imane Khelif in 46 seconds in the Women's 66 kg category. Khelif is in the spotlight after she was disqualified at the 2023 World Championship over a failed gender test with many against her participation in the women's event and deeming her a 'biological male'. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has also reacted to the row and said that the fight was not on equal footing.

Paris Olympics 2024: Angela Carini abandons Olympic fight after 46 seconds against Imane Khelif

Former President Donald Trump reiterated on Wednesday (July 31) that he would pardon January 6 rioters if he wins the November election.

"Oh, absolutely, I would. If they're innocent, I would pardon them," Trump said during a panel at the National Association of Black Journalists.&nbsp;

"They were convicted by a very tough system," Trump added.

Notably, more than 1,400 people have been charged in connection with the attack on Jan. 6, 2021, and prosecutors have secured over 1,000 convictions on charges ranging from unlawful parading to seditious conspiracy. Hundreds of cases remain pending, with more arrests expected before the five-year statute of limitations expires in early 2026.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-fake-trump-accuses-harris-of-turning-black-for-political-gain-kamala-calls-attack-same-old-show-746093">'Fake, fake, fake': Trump accuses Harris of 'turning black' for political gain</a>

However, all January 6 cases could theoretically be concluded if Trump wins and his appointees take control of the Justice Department.

The former president has repeatedly referred to Jan. 6 rioters as warriors, amazing patriots," political prisoners and "hostages."&nbsp;

Senior US District Judge Royce Lamberth, appointed by former President Ronald Reagan and overseeing numerous Capitol attack trials, has expressed shock at the "preposterous" rhetoric Republicans often use regarding January 6 rioters who have been convicted.&nbsp;

“In my thirty-seven years on the bench, I cannot remember a time when such meritless justifications of criminal activity have gone mainstream," Lamberth wrote this year.

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Although Jan. 6 defendants were caught on camera brandishing or using firearms, stun guns, flagpoles, fire extinguishers, bike racks, batons, a metal whip, office furniture, pepper spray, bear spray, a tomahawk ax, a hatchet, a hockey stick, knuckle gloves, a baseball bat, a massive “Trump” billboard, “Trump” flags, a pitchfork, pieces of lumber, crutches and even an explosive device during the brutal attack.

When asked directly whether he would pardon January 6 rioters who were seen on camera assaulting officers with flagpoles and dragging them down the stairs of the Capitol, Trump did not answer. Instead, he pivoted to discussing the officer who shot and killed a January 6 rioter.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former President Donald Trump reiterated on Wednesday (July 31) that he would pardon January 6 rioters if he wins the November election. "Oh, absolutely, I would.

Former President Donald Trump reiterated on Wednesday (July 31) that he would pardon January 6 rioters if he wins the November election. "Oh, absolutely, I would. If they're innocent, I would pardon them," Trump said during a panel at the National Association of Black Journalists. "They were convicted by a very tough system," Trump added. Notably, more than 1,400 people have been charged in connection with the attack on Jan. 6, 2021, and prosecutors have secured over 1,000 convictions on charges ranging from unlawful parading to seditious conspiracy. Hundreds of cases remain pending, with more arrests expected before the five-year statute of limitations expires in early 2026. Also read: 'Fake, fake, fake': Trump accuses Harris of 'turning black' for political gain However, all January 6 cases could theoretically be concluded if Trump wins and his appointees take control of the Justice Department. The former president has repeatedly referred to Jan. 6 rioters as warriors, amazing patriots," political prisoners and "hostages." Senior US District Judge Royce Lamberth, appointed by former President Ronald Reagan and overseeing numerous Capitol attack trials, has expressed shock at the "preposterous" rhetoric Republicans often use regarding January 6 rioters who have been convicted. “In my thirty-seven years on the bench, I cannot remember a time when such meritless justifications of criminal activity have gone mainstream," Lamberth wrote this year. Also read | Trump backs Vance in 'childless cat ladies' controversy, says he said that because 'family is good' Although Jan. 6 defendants were caught on camera brandishing or using firearms, stun guns, flagpoles, fire extinguishers, bike racks, batons, a metal whip, office furniture, pepper spray, bear spray, a tomahawk ax, a hatchet, a hockey stick, knuckle gloves, a baseball bat, a massive “Trump” billboard, “Trump” flags, a pitchfork, pieces of lumber, crutches and even an explosive device during the brutal attack. When asked directly whether he would pardon January 6 rioters who were seen on camera assaulting officers with flagpoles and dragging them down the stairs of the Capitol, Trump did not answer. Instead, he pivoted to discussing the officer who shot and killed a January 6 rioter. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump says he would absolutely pardon Jan. 6 rioters

Donald Trump is truly the king of controversy. The Republican presidential candidate, known for his penchant for giving his rivals derisive nicknames — like 'sleepy Joe' — has now questioned the US Vice President Kamala Harris's racial identity.

In a controversial interaction with African American journalists in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;31), former President Trump suggested that Kamala Harris had "turned Black" for political purposes.&nbsp;

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This accusation marked an intensification of Trump's rhetoric against Harris, whom he falsely claimed had initially identified as Indian, but "all of a sudden, she made a turn, and she became a Black person."

<img alt="Former US President and 2024 Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump answers questions as moderator and journalist Rachel Scott (R) looks on during the National Association of Black Journalists annual convention in Chicago, Illinois, on July 31, 2024." bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:231,&quot;w&quot;:1200,&quot;h&quot;:675,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1988}" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7989dac-f4f1-4472-b302-935423c27c1f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202024-08-01T083456.406.png" />

Former US President and 2024 Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump answers questions as moderator and journalist Rachel Scott (R) looks on during the National Association of Black Journalists annual convention in Chicago, Illinois, on July 31, 2024. Photo: AFP.

"So I don't know, is she Indian or is she Black?" he questioned.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1016,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2773}">Kamala Harris responds to Trump's attack</h2>

Responding to Donald Trump's comments at the National Association of Black Journalists conference, Harris dismissed the Republican's attacks as "the same old show" of "divisiveness and disrespect."

59-year-old Harris, as per news agency AFP, has consistently identified as Black and has even graduated from a historically Black university. A quick search on Google would show you that Kamala's father Donald J. Harris is of Jamaican heritage, while her late mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a British citizen of Indian heritage.

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Slamming Trump during an address to a sorority gathering Wednesday in Houston, Harris said, "The American people deserve better."&nbsp;

"We deserve a leader who understands that our differences do not divide us. They are an essential source of our strength."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1330,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3087}">Shockwaves expected</h2>

The remarks by Trump, who has been attempting to boost his appeal among Black voters, are expected to send shockwaves through the 2024 presidential race, reports AFP.&nbsp;

Trump's comments come as he navigates his campaign strategy less than 100 days before the election, following his conviction two months ago for felony fraud related to hush money payments to a porn star.

Later on Wednesday, at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, Trump continued his verbal assault on Harris, accusing her of faking a Southern accent during a recent rally in Atlanta, Georgia. He contrasted Harris with himself, portraying her as a "radical left puppet candidate" while positioning himself as a fighter for America.

"The contrast could not be more stark," said Trump.

"On the one hand you have a radical left puppet candidate who is fake fake fake, and on the other hand you have a president who will fight fight fight for America," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump is truly the king of controversy. The Republican presidential candidate, known for his penchant for giving his rivals derisive nicknames — like 'sleepy Joe' — has now questioned the US Vice President Kamala Harris's racial identity.

Donald Trump is truly the king of controversy. The Republican presidential candidate, known for his penchant for giving his rivals derisive nicknames — like 'sleepy Joe' — has now questioned the US Vice President Kamala Harris's racial identity. In a controversial interaction with African American journalists in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 31), former President Trump suggested that Kamala Harris had "turned Black" for political purposes. Also read | Trump backs Vance in 'childless cat ladies' controversy, says he said that because 'family is good' This accusation marked an intensification of Trump's rhetoric against Harris, whom he falsely claimed had initially identified as Indian, but "all of a sudden, she made a turn, and she became a Black person." Former US President and 2024 Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump answers questions as moderator and journalist Rachel Scott (R) looks on during the National Association of Black Journalists annual convention in Chicago, Illinois, on July 31, 2024. Photo: AFP. "So I don't know, is she Indian or is she Black?" he questioned. Kamala Harris responds to Trump's attack Responding to Donald Trump's comments at the National Association of Black Journalists conference, Harris dismissed the Republican's attacks as "the same old show" of "divisiveness and disrespect." 59-year-old Harris, as per news agency AFP, has consistently identified as Black and has even graduated from a historically Black university. A quick search on Google would show you that Kamala's father Donald J. Harris is of Jamaican heritage, while her late mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a British citizen of Indian heritage. Also read | Facebook targeting Trump? Meta calls July 13 assassination attempt 'fictional event' and 'misinformation' Slamming Trump during an address to a sorority gathering Wednesday in Houston, Harris said, "The American people deserve better." "We deserve a leader who understands that our differences do not divide us. They are an essential source of our strength." Shockwaves expected The remarks by Trump, who has been attempting to boost his appeal among Black voters, are expected to send shockwaves through the 2024 presidential race, reports AFP. Trump's comments come as he navigates his campaign strategy less than 100 days before the election, following his conviction two months ago for felony fraud related to hush money payments to a porn star. Later on Wednesday, at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, Trump continued his verbal assault on Harris, accusing her of faking a Southern accent during a recent rally in Atlanta, Georgia. He contrasted Harris with himself, portraying her as a "radical left puppet candidate" while positioning himself as a fighter for America. "The contrast could not be more stark," said Trump. "On the one hand you have a radical left puppet candidate who is fake fake fake, and on the other hand you have a president who will fight fight fight for America," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Fake, fake': Trump accuses Harris of 'turning black' for political gain; Kamala calls attack 'same old show'

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams and her colleague Butch Wilmore find themselves in an indefinite stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS) after a 10-day mission turned into a prolonged ordeal. Watch in for more details!

Butch Wilmore & Sunita Williams stranded in space, NASA says 'no date set for astronauts'

Three men accused of plotting the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks have entered into a pre-trial agreement, the US Department of Defence said.

The three accused, Khalid Sheikh Mohammad, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin Attash, and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al-Hawsawi have been held at the US Navy base Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for years without going to trial.

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According to the US news agency reports, the men will plead guilty in exchange for the prosecution's agreement not to pursue the death penalty. The terms of the plea deal have not yet been released.

It may be recalled here that nearly 3,000 people in New York, Virginia and Pennsylvania were killed in the al-Qaeda attacks, which sparked the War on Terror and the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq.

The attacks were the deadliest on US soil since Pearl Harbor, which claimed 2,400 lives in 1941.

The prosecutors notified the victims' families of the plea deal in a letter, according to The New York Times.

"In exchange for the elimination of the death penalty as a possible punishment, these three accused have agreed to plead guilty to all of the charged offences, including the murder of the 2,976 people listed in the charge sheet," said the letter from the chief prosecutor Rear Admiral Aaron Rugh.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-agree-to-uphold-peace-and-tranquility-along-line-of-actual-control-746045">India and China agree to ‘uphold peace and tranquility’ along LAC</a>

The men have been accused of a litany of charges, including attacking civilians, murder in violation of the laws of war, hijacking and terrorism.

As per a report in Times, they are expected to formally submit their pleas in court as early as next week.

Khalid Sheikh Mohammad&nbsp;is believed to be the architect of the attack, in which hijackers seized passenger planes and crashed them into the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon outside of Washington.

Mohammad, who was an educated engineer from the US, was captured with Hawsawi in Pakistan in March 2003.

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Prosecutors claimed he pitched the idea of hijacking planes to crash into US buildings to Osama bin Laden and later helped recruit and train the hijackers.

In September, the Biden administration reportedly rejected the terms of a plea.

The White House National Security Council said that the president's office was informed on Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;31) of the new deal and had played no role in negotiations.

However, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell condemned the move, he said, "The only thing worse than negotiating with terrorists is negotiating with them after they are in custody."

(With inputs from agencies)

Three men accused of plotting the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks have entered into a pre-trial agreement, the US Department of Defence said. The three accused, Khalid Sheikh Mohammad, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin Attash, and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al-Hawsawi have been held at the US Navy base Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for years without going to trial.

Three men accused of plotting the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks have entered into a pre-trial agreement, the US Department of Defence said. The three accused, Khalid Sheikh Mohammad, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin Attash, and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al-Hawsawi have been held at the US Navy base Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for years without going to trial. Also read: Hezbollah confirms Faud Shukr's assassination; body found in rubble in Beirut According to the US news agency reports, the men will plead guilty in exchange for the prosecution's agreement not to pursue the death penalty. The terms of the plea deal have not yet been released. It may be recalled here that nearly 3,000 people in New York, Virginia and Pennsylvania were killed in the al-Qaeda attacks, which sparked the War on Terror and the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq. The attacks were the deadliest on US soil since Pearl Harbor, which claimed 2,400 lives in 1941. The prosecutors notified the victims' families of the plea deal in a letter, according to The New York Times. "In exchange for the elimination of the death penalty as a possible punishment, these three accused have agreed to plead guilty to all of the charged offences, including the murder of the 2,976 people listed in the charge sheet," said the letter from the chief prosecutor Rear Admiral Aaron Rugh. Also read: India and China agree to ‘uphold peace and tranquility’ along LAC The men have been accused of a litany of charges, including attacking civilians, murder in violation of the laws of war, hijacking and terrorism. As per a report in Times, they are expected to formally submit their pleas in court as early as next week. Khalid Sheikh Mohammad is believed to be the architect of the attack, in which hijackers seized passenger planes and crashed them into the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon outside of Washington. Mohammad, who was an educated engineer from the US, was captured with Hawsawi in Pakistan in March 2003. Also read: Families of Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza war harbour grandkids’ hope through sperm extraction Prosecutors claimed he pitched the idea of hijacking planes to crash into US buildings to Osama bin Laden and later helped recruit and train the hijackers. In September, the Biden administration reportedly rejected the terms of a plea. The White House National Security Council said that the president's office was informed on Wednesday (Jul 31) of the new deal and had played no role in negotiations. However, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell condemned the move, he said, "The only thing worse than negotiating with terrorists is negotiating with them after they are in custody." (With inputs from agencies)

US reaches plea agreement with men accused as main plotters of 9/11

Sri Lanka will hold presidential elections on the 21st of September ahead of the same Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe resigned from his post and will be running for president. WION's correspondent Dasuni spoke with him about the current situation of the SLPP and the cause of the split. Watch in!

'Gotabaya Rajapaksa asked me to come for elections', says Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe

Funeral processions for Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in an air strike in Tehran, Iran began on Thursday (Aug 1). The Islamic republic's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will lead the prayers for Haniyeh ahead of his burial in Doha.

Khamenei said after Haniyeh's death, "it was "our duty to seek revenge for his blood as he was martyred in the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran".

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Mourning crowds carrying posters of Haniyeh and Palestinian flags gathered at Tehran University in the city centre, according to AFP.

Haniyeh's death was announced the day before by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, who said he and his bodyguard were killed in a strike on their accommodation in the Iranian capital at 2:00 am (2230 GMT) on Wednesday (July 31).&nbsp;

This occurred just hours after Israel targeted and killed top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in a retaliatory strike on Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, heightening fears of a wider regional war.

However, Israel has declined to comment on the Tehran strike.

The Hamas chief was in Tehran for the inauguration ceremony of newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday (July 30).

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Hamas political bureau member Musa Abu Marzuk also pledged retaliation, stating, "The assassination of leader Ismail Haniyeh is a cowardly act and will not go unanswered."

The international community, however, urged de-escalation and emphasised the need to focus on securing a ceasefire in Gaza.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-leaders-vow-ismail-haniyehs-death-will-not-go-unanswered-calls-it-a-heinous-terrorist-crime-745827" target="_blank">Global community reacts to Ismail Haniyeh's assassination, Hamas vows it 'will not go unanswered'</a>

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the strikes in Tehran and Beirut was a "dangerous escalation", now all efforts should be leading to a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also said that a ceasefire in Gaza was still crucial.

(With inputs from agencies)

Funeral processions for Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in an air strike in Tehran, Iran began on Thursday (Aug 1). The Islamic republic's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will lead the prayers for Haniyeh ahead of his burial in Doha.

Funeral processions for Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in an air strike in Tehran, Iran began on Thursday (Aug 1). The Islamic republic's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will lead the prayers for Haniyeh ahead of his burial in Doha. Khamenei said after Haniyeh's death, "it was "our duty to seek revenge for his blood as he was martyred in the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran". Also read: Hezbollah confirms Faud Shukr's assassination; body found in rubble in Beirut Mourning crowds carrying posters of Haniyeh and Palestinian flags gathered at Tehran University in the city centre, according to AFP. Haniyeh's death was announced the day before by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, who said he and his bodyguard were killed in a strike on their accommodation in the Iranian capital at 2:00 am (2230 GMT) on Wednesday (July 31). This occurred just hours after Israel targeted and killed top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in a retaliatory strike on Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, heightening fears of a wider regional war. However, Israel has declined to comment on the Tehran strike. The Hamas chief was in Tehran for the inauguration ceremony of newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday (July 30). Also read | Who is Faud Shukr? The Hezbollah 'senior terrorist' Israel claims to have 'eliminated' in Beirut Hamas political bureau member Musa Abu Marzuk also pledged retaliation, stating, "The assassination of leader Ismail Haniyeh is a cowardly act and will not go unanswered." The international community, however, urged de-escalation and emphasised the need to focus on securing a ceasefire in Gaza. Also read | Global community reacts to Ismail Haniyeh's assassination, Hamas vows it 'will not go unanswered' UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the strikes in Tehran and Beirut was a "dangerous escalation", now all efforts should be leading to a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also said that a ceasefire in Gaza was still crucial. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran holds funeral for Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh

Sudan’s military leader, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, survived a drone attack Wednesday on an army graduation ceremony he was attending in the country’s east. Watch in for more details!

Sudan army chief escapes drone strike amid ongoing conflict

Panama's Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez has emphasised the growing stature of India and pointed to how his country plans to increase ties with New Delhi. The plans&nbsp;include soon announcing Panama's ambassador to the country and opening a visa processing office in the Indian capital.

The foreign minister hoped to get Indian investment, see the establishment of the Indian educational institute as well as Indian Pharma manufacturing plants in his country.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Exclusive | 'We understand the rise of India as a power': Panama FM Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez

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He explained, "We understand that we need to lower the cost of pharma for Panamanians, and India could be a very important player to solve that problem".

The foreign minister also spoke on his country's stance on the Venezuela elections, the Ukraine war, and United Nations Security Council&nbsp;reforms.

Sidhant Sibal: How do you assess the situation in Venezuela post the elections? I believe that Panama has taken an important decision in terms of suspending its diplomatic relationship with Venezuela. What is the reason behind it?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: I want to make one thing clear,&nbsp;we didn't break our relationship with Venezuela. We lowered it to the consulate level.&nbsp;The decision to break diplomatic ties was taken by Venezuela. So that's the first thing that I want to make sure that the public and your audience understand. Secondly, Panama has a clear position about principles of democracy. We as a country cannot accept that the rule of law, that an election was probably one of the last resources to solve the political situation in Venezuela, did not fulfil its goal, because the results are not being made public with transparency. We cannot accept the result of an election in which transparency is in doubt. So we hope that the act, the different documents that will support the results are made clear again, and the Venezuelans can find a peaceful solution to the problem. So far, there's no sign that the government is willing to make such documents that will confirm the result of an election.

Sidhant Sibal: Are you speaking to other countries in the region about what has happened in terms of the election results in Venezuela? And have you spoken to the Americans as well? We have seen comments by the US Vice President Kamala Harris as well, she has made a tweet as well, any comments on that?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: We&nbsp;respect each country's decision about the current situation in Venezuela. I can tell you that we in Latin America have a group of foreign ministers from nine countries in agreement. Probably their statements can be a little bit different, but the aim is the same. We need to have access to the document that supports the results.&nbsp;We need to have independent auditing of the results. Until then, we will maintain our clear position. Democracy is a principle that cannot be negotiated.&nbsp;Our president is committed to the rule of law. Our president is committed to transparent elections. Panama is an ally of democracy.&nbsp;Your country is the biggest democracy in the world. You just had an excellent democratic exercise, millions of people went voting, and the transparency of your election is an example to the world.&nbsp;So that's why we have taken this position in regard to the Venezuelan election. We need transparency. We need Venezuelans to know the full results, the transparency of the election to be made fully and then we can, you know, move forward in different directions if, if the results are made public, so far they haven't. So our position is to support the democratic value of Venezuela and to support the full transparency of the elections.

Sidhant Sibal: So now coming to the India-Panama relationship. And this interview is all about, what does Panama see in India and when it comes to engagement with India? Starting with a broader question, how do you see the relationship between India and Panama?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Our relationship between India and Panama has improved greatly, lately. You need to know that my predecessor has an Indian background, and she re-launched the relationship with India. Your foreign minister came to Panama, she visited India. And&nbsp;I understand the importance of India on the global stage. I understand the rise of India as an&nbsp;economic and geopolitical power.&nbsp;And we share a lot in common, customs, you have a different tradition, you are a multicultural country, different religions. In Panama, we have the same thing, here in Panama, you can find a Christian, you can find a Jewish, you can find a Muslim, living in agreement, living in, you know, in full cooperation. One thing that approaches Panama very closely to India. From that, we can work on business, we can work on educational change, we can work on investment, we can work on cultural changes. And I am sure that with the leadership of our president, we will move forward very fast to, you know, create a greater bond between India and Panama.

Sidhant Sibal: So you pointed to high-level engagement between the two sides. What kind of high-level engagement we can expect, and there is no ambassador of Panama here in Delhi? Are you likely to appoint one?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Yes,&nbsp;we are going to appoint one very soon.&nbsp;Our president wants to support our mission there.&nbsp;We understand the importance of India in the region, the importance of India in the world,&nbsp;Panama could be a great partner for India because from here you can have the base for Indian companies.&nbsp;And there is a market of almost one&nbsp;billion people in Latin America, Central America, and South America, the strategic position of Panama could be of great value for your business. Plus, we would like to see Indian enterprises establish headquarters in Panama for the region, take advantage and manufacture different products in Panama. Panama has a comparative advantage in the region because of our hub, because of our political stability, because of our economic stability, and, of course, because of our canal. And we can play a great, great, you know, compliment for Indian businesses to tackle the different markets in the region.

Sidhant Sibal: How do you plan to make Panama an attractive destination for Indian businesses? And there is an issue as well. When it comes to getting a visa for Panama, one has to travel to Mumbai. So how do you plan to resolve that issue?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: We plan to modernise our visa process and we will establish a visa process in New Delhi. The process is very bureaucratic.&nbsp;President José Raúl Mulino&nbsp;is engaged in modernising. The president is engaged in giving great support to our most important embassy, and&nbsp;India will be an important embassy. We are addressing the situation, will present a solution very soon.&nbsp;Your ambassador Dr Sumit Seth here is very active in that regard, and we have talked about the necessity to improve the process of granting visas. And I promise you, we will have a smooth process.

Sidhant Sibal: So Panama is a country which is en route to migration, both legal and illegal migration, if you can perhaps talk about it. And is this route used by Indians to go to the United States?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Not really.&nbsp;The main countries when it comes to illegal immigrants are Venezuela, Ecuador, Colombia, Haiti and China.&nbsp;The diaspora of India is regular. Here in Panama, we have about 15,000 Indian background people. They're very important in the business world. They're very important in the community, and they are great actors in creating jobs, investment, and they are very respectful here. You know, with respect to your tradition. And&nbsp;we don't consider India to be a problem of irregular immigration.

Sidhant Sibal: Any plans to sign the mobility and migration pact with India? India has signed these pacts with several countries in the past few months and years.

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez:&nbsp;Yes, it is open. I need to discuss that with the Ambassador and Panama wants to establish a great, great relationship with India, believe me, that is top of the agenda with Ambassador Dr Sumit Seth.

Sidhant Sibal: In terms of Indian support to Panama, if you can talk about that, I believe that India offers 25 scholarships to Panama to use that, and also in terms of cooperation with India in terms of the ITEC courses, if you can talk about that.

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Yes indeed. We have talked with the Ambassador Dr Sumit about the scholarship, we want to send our young students to learn from your different educational centres. I have talked to the ambassador about the probability of establishing here an important tech educational centre. Here in Panama, we can develop the assembling, testing and&nbsp;packaging of the semiconductors. We have talked with the ambassador. I am sure we will have an agreement, and&nbsp;probably soon you will see here in Panama, an important and prestigious educational centre of India.

Sidhant Sibal: So what kind of cooperation are you looking for with India in terms of digital infrastructure?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez:&nbsp;Yes, indeed, we have talked about many, many important cooperation in technology, in education, in cultural change. I want to, you know, relaunch our relations with India. We understand the importance of India on the world stage. I said again, we hope that when my mission is finished here,&nbsp;India will be one of the most important partners of Panama.&nbsp;India is a democratic country, we are too. India shares our principle of, you know, of peace, and we need to create bonds that we transcend our tenure.

Sidhant Sibal: United Nations Security Council reform now, India is very keen to get a membership for the Security Council. What's your position on that? And I believe you will also be a non-permanent member of the UNSC on the first of January 2025 so what is your focus area?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez:&nbsp;We understand the rise of India as a power.&nbsp;India is a country of 1.4 billion people. India is one of the emerging economies. India has a great military capability. India promotes peace. So in that regard, we recognize the importance to modernise the United Nations and to modernise the Security Council. You know, you know, the obstacle to achieve that. Reforms need the backing of two-thirds of the UNGA and the positive vote of the permanent members, the world has changed, and India is not the same as it was four years ago.&nbsp;We need to have a serious discussion about the modernization of global governance. We need to find consensus, not only with India, with other important countries in the world.

Sidhant Sibal: Pharma is another area where India has taken a lead during the Covid pandemic. India sent vaccines to your country in terms of pharma cooperation, what are your expectations with the Indian side in terms of whether it's regulatory approvals or getting cheap Indian drugs?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez:&nbsp;To be sincere, we understand our problem in Panama with pharma, my first advice will be for Indian companies to establish here, a manufacturing hub and then being here, things will be easier. Nevertheless,&nbsp;we understand that we need to lower the cost of pharma for Panamanians, and India could be a very important player to solve that problem.&nbsp;So we will work hard with Ambassador Dr Sumit Seth to try to find solutions to this very important issue for Panamanians and India could be of great support for the Panamanian government to reach such solutions.

Sidhant Sibal: So earlier in the conversation, you talked about the Indian diaspora in Panama, what's your view about the role they have played, especially Indian origin, Panamanians in your country, there are approximately 15,000 members of the Indian diaspora?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez:&nbsp;We understand the importance of the Indian diaspora. They play active roles in the business community. Their traditions are well known in Panama.&nbsp;We are very respectful of your religion. Again, I want to highlight that Panama resembles much of India here, as in India, we have a Jewish, Muslims, Christians, you and your country have different religions, different languages. The level of understanding is very important there and here. So I can conclude, in a very convincing way, that the Indian diaspora in Panama is well appreciated. It is an important factor in the development of Panama as a country, and we want to continue that, and we want to increase that in our development.

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see Indian engagement in the Panama Canal?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez:&nbsp;Well, the canal is only one important element. We are a very important hub. We have the most important airport in the region.&nbsp;So the canal could be a factor to attract Indian investment.&nbsp;And from here you can outreach to the Caribbean, to Central America and to South America. So the complementarity of Panama for the Indian business world is very important. Our mission is to make that clear to the Indian authorities, to the Indian business people, and we are willing, and we are ready to partner with India in such regards.

Sidhant Sibal: So I believe there are other countries in your region, in fact, your neighbours, who are planning to build similar canals. So how do you plan to make sure that the Panama Canal has its own competitive advantage at a time when other countries are looking to have their own canals?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez:&nbsp;Well, we work on competition. We respect each country's policies toward developing its connectivity, but we have a comparative advantage that is very clear. We need to make sure that we remain so, the Canal, which has its own independence to manage the most important asset in the continent, will invest a lot of millions in the next seven years to maintain the competitiveness of the canal. We can rest assured,&nbsp;the canal will continue to play an important role in the world of commerce, the competition is welcome.&nbsp;I ensure that such development in our neighbours will improve the importance of the canal.

Sidhant Sibal: So climate change is one thing that has impacted everyone on the planet. Now, essentially, when it comes to India's contribution, India has been taking the lead when it comes to the International Solar Alliance, the Biofuel Alliance as well. You have, in fact, joined the International Solar Alliance as well. So how do you see cooperating with India when it comes to dealing with the challenge of climate change?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez:&nbsp;Well, we need to cooperate very closely.&nbsp;In Panama, we are taking steps. We have already relocated an important community in the North East Atlantic because of climate change. We are investing more and more in renewable energy, and&nbsp;your country is a leader in solar energy. And again, we need to be together in this battle against climate change, not only Panama and India but the whole world. And we hope that Panama, in the Security Council, will present this as an important issue to be addressed by, you know, the world community.&nbsp;We recognize your commitment to tackle climate change, your commitment to reduce the impact of greenhouse gases. I know that you have reforested millions and millions of trees. That's a good example for the world,&nbsp;and we need to, you know, to take advantage. We are one of the three countries being carbon negative because we have a huge, huge, you know, forest reserve. We can learn from each other. We can share experiences.

Sidhant Sibal: When it comes to the Russia-Ukraine war, or when it comes to the situation between Washington and Beijing. How does it impact countries in Latin America and countries like yours, in terms of the situation on the ground, and in terms of food security, in terms of energy security?

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez:&nbsp;Okay, first, we have condemned the aggression of Russia on Ukraine. That's a violation of international law, and we would like to see a stop to that conflict. We would like to see that Ukraine gets back its territory. There's no need for a conflict in the 21st century. We hope that the European Union, with the leadership of the USA, a solution can be found very soon. In regard to China and the USA, it is clear that that's a very complex relationship. But based on that, Panama could be a beneficiary of the situation. India can invest in our country. We know that India has a very capable entrepreneur class, so I'm willing to work closely with your ambassador Dr Sumit Seth, with your authorities to take advantage of Panama. We are a peace-loving country.

Panama's Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez has emphasised the growing stature of India and pointed to how his country plans to increase ties with New Delhi.

Panama's Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez has emphasised the growing stature of India and pointed to how his country plans to increase ties with New Delhi. The plans include soon announcing Panama's ambassador to the country and opening a visa processing office in the Indian capital. The foreign minister hoped to get Indian investment, see the establishment of the Indian educational institute as well as Indian Pharma manufacturing plants in his country. Also watch | WION Exclusive | 'We understand the rise of India as a power': Panama FM Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez × He explained, "We understand that we need to lower the cost of pharma for Panamanians, and India could be a very important player to solve that problem". The foreign minister also spoke on his country's stance on the Venezuela elections, the Ukraine war, and United Nations Security Council reforms. Sidhant Sibal: How do you assess the situation in Venezuela post the elections? I believe that Panama has taken an important decision in terms of suspending its diplomatic relationship with Venezuela. What is the reason behind it? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: I want to make one thing clear, we didn't break our relationship with Venezuela. We lowered it to the consulate level. The decision to break diplomatic ties was taken by Venezuela. So that's the first thing that I want to make sure that the public and your audience understand. Secondly, Panama has a clear position about principles of democracy. We as a country cannot accept that the rule of law, that an election was probably one of the last resources to solve the political situation in Venezuela, did not fulfil its goal, because the results are not being made public with transparency. We cannot accept the result of an election in which transparency is in doubt. So we hope that the act, the different documents that will support the results are made clear again, and the Venezuelans can find a peaceful solution to the problem. So far, there's no sign that the government is willing to make such documents that will confirm the result of an election. Sidhant Sibal: Are you speaking to other countries in the region about what has happened in terms of the election results in Venezuela? And have you spoken to the Americans as well? We have seen comments by the US Vice President Kamala Harris as well, she has made a tweet as well, any comments on that? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: We respect each country's decision about the current situation in Venezuela. I can tell you that we in Latin America have a group of foreign ministers from nine countries in agreement. Probably their statements can be a little bit different, but the aim is the same. We need to have access to the document that supports the results. We need to have independent auditing of the results. Until then, we will maintain our clear position. Democracy is a principle that cannot be negotiated. Our president is committed to the rule of law. Our president is committed to transparent elections. Panama is an ally of democracy. Your country is the biggest democracy in the world. You just had an excellent democratic exercise, millions of people went voting, and the transparency of your election is an example to the world. So that's why we have taken this position in regard to the Venezuelan election. We need transparency. We need Venezuelans to know the full results, the transparency of the election to be made fully and then we can, you know, move forward in different directions if, if the results are made public, so far they haven't. So our position is to support the democratic value of Venezuela and to support the full transparency of the elections. Sidhant Sibal: So now coming to the India-Panama relationship. And this interview is all about, what does Panama see in India and when it comes to engagement with India? Starting with a broader question, how do you see the relationship between India and Panama? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Our relationship between India and Panama has improved greatly, lately. You need to know that my predecessor has an Indian background, and she re-launched the relationship with India. Your foreign minister came to Panama, she visited India. And I understand the importance of India on the global stage. I understand the rise of India as an economic and geopolitical power. And we share a lot in common, customs, you have a different tradition, you are a multicultural country, different religions. In Panama, we have the same thing, here in Panama, you can find a Christian, you can find a Jewish, you can find a Muslim, living in agreement, living in, you know, in full cooperation. One thing that approaches Panama very closely to India. From that, we can work on business, we can work on educational change, we can work on investment, we can work on cultural changes. And I am sure that with the leadership of our president, we will move forward very fast to, you know, create a greater bond between India and Panama. Sidhant Sibal: So you pointed to high-level engagement between the two sides. What kind of high-level engagement we can expect, and there is no ambassador of Panama here in Delhi? Are you likely to appoint one? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Yes, we are going to appoint one very soon. Our president wants to support our mission there. We understand the importance of India in the region, the importance of India in the world, Panama could be a great partner for India because from here you can have the base for Indian companies. And there is a market of almost one billion people in Latin America, Central America, and South America, the strategic position of Panama could be of great value for your business. Plus, we would like to see Indian enterprises establish headquarters in Panama for the region, take advantage and manufacture different products in Panama. Panama has a comparative advantage in the region because of our hub, because of our political stability, because of our economic stability, and, of course, because of our canal. And we can play a great, great, you know, compliment for Indian businesses to tackle the different markets in the region. Sidhant Sibal: How do you plan to make Panama an attractive destination for Indian businesses? And there is an issue as well. When it comes to getting a visa for Panama, one has to travel to Mumbai. So how do you plan to resolve that issue? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: We plan to modernise our visa process and we will establish a visa process in New Delhi. The process is very bureaucratic. President José Raúl Mulino is engaged in modernising. The president is engaged in giving great support to our most important embassy, and India will be an important embassy. We are addressing the situation, will present a solution very soon. Your ambassador Dr Sumit Seth here is very active in that regard, and we have talked about the necessity to improve the process of granting visas. And I promise you, we will have a smooth process. Sidhant Sibal: So Panama is a country which is en route to migration, both legal and illegal migration, if you can perhaps talk about it. And is this route used by Indians to go to the United States? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Not really. The main countries when it comes to illegal immigrants are Venezuela, Ecuador, Colombia, Haiti and China. The diaspora of India is regular. Here in Panama, we have about 15,000 Indian background people. They're very important in the business world. They're very important in the community, and they are great actors in creating jobs, investment, and they are very respectful here. You know, with respect to your tradition. And we don't consider India to be a problem of irregular immigration. Sidhant Sibal: Any plans to sign the mobility and migration pact with India? India has signed these pacts with several countries in the past few months and years. Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Yes, it is open. I need to discuss that with the Ambassador and Panama wants to establish a great, great relationship with India, believe me, that is top of the agenda with Ambassador Dr Sumit Seth. Sidhant Sibal: In terms of Indian support to Panama, if you can talk about that, I believe that India offers 25 scholarships to Panama to use that, and also in terms of cooperation with India in terms of the ITEC courses, if you can talk about that. Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Yes indeed. We have talked with the Ambassador Dr Sumit about the scholarship, we want to send our young students to learn from your different educational centres. I have talked to the ambassador about the probability of establishing here an important tech educational centre. Here in Panama, we can develop the assembling, testing and packaging of the semiconductors. We have talked with the ambassador. I am sure we will have an agreement, and probably soon you will see here in Panama, an important and prestigious educational centre of India. Sidhant Sibal: So what kind of cooperation are you looking for with India in terms of digital infrastructure? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Yes, indeed, we have talked about many, many important cooperation in technology, in education, in cultural change. I want to, you know, relaunch our relations with India. We understand the importance of India on the world stage. I said again, we hope that when my mission is finished here, India will be one of the most important partners of Panama. India is a democratic country, we are too. India shares our principle of, you know, of peace, and we need to create bonds that we transcend our tenure. Sidhant Sibal: United Nations Security Council reform now, India is very keen to get a membership for the Security Council. What's your position on that? And I believe you will also be a non-permanent member of the UNSC on the first of January 2025 so what is your focus area? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: We understand the rise of India as a power. India is a country of 1.4 billion people. India is one of the emerging economies. India has a great military capability. India promotes peace. So in that regard, we recognize the importance to modernise the United Nations and to modernise the Security Council. You know, you know, the obstacle to achieve that. Reforms need the backing of two-thirds of the UNGA and the positive vote of the permanent members, the world has changed, and India is not the same as it was four years ago. We need to have a serious discussion about the modernization of global governance. We need to find consensus, not only with India, with other important countries in the world. Sidhant Sibal: Pharma is another area where India has taken a lead during the Covid pandemic. India sent vaccines to your country in terms of pharma cooperation, what are your expectations with the Indian side in terms of whether it's regulatory approvals or getting cheap Indian drugs? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: To be sincere, we understand our problem in Panama with pharma, my first advice will be for Indian companies to establish here, a manufacturing hub and then being here, things will be easier. Nevertheless, we understand that we need to lower the cost of pharma for Panamanians, and India could be a very important player to solve that problem. So we will work hard with Ambassador Dr Sumit Seth to try to find solutions to this very important issue for Panamanians and India could be of great support for the Panamanian government to reach such solutions. Sidhant Sibal: So earlier in the conversation, you talked about the Indian diaspora in Panama, what's your view about the role they have played, especially Indian origin, Panamanians in your country, there are approximately 15,000 members of the Indian diaspora? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: We understand the importance of the Indian diaspora. They play active roles in the business community. Their traditions are well known in Panama. We are very respectful of your religion. Again, I want to highlight that Panama resembles much of India here, as in India, we have a Jewish, Muslims, Christians, you and your country have different religions, different languages. The level of understanding is very important there and here. So I can conclude, in a very convincing way, that the Indian diaspora in Panama is well appreciated. It is an important factor in the development of Panama as a country, and we want to continue that, and we want to increase that in our development. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see Indian engagement in the Panama Canal? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Well, the canal is only one important element. We are a very important hub. We have the most important airport in the region. So the canal could be a factor to attract Indian investment. And from here you can outreach to the Caribbean, to Central America and to South America. So the complementarity of Panama for the Indian business world is very important. Our mission is to make that clear to the Indian authorities, to the Indian business people, and we are willing, and we are ready to partner with India in such regards. Sidhant Sibal: So I believe there are other countries in your region, in fact, your neighbours, who are planning to build similar canals. So how do you plan to make sure that the Panama Canal has its own competitive advantage at a time when other countries are looking to have their own canals? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Well, we work on competition. We respect each country's policies toward developing its connectivity, but we have a comparative advantage that is very clear. We need to make sure that we remain so, the Canal, which has its own independence to manage the most important asset in the continent, will invest a lot of millions in the next seven years to maintain the competitiveness of the canal. We can rest assured, the canal will continue to play an important role in the world of commerce, the competition is welcome. I ensure that such development in our neighbours will improve the importance of the canal. Sidhant Sibal: So climate change is one thing that has impacted everyone on the planet. Now, essentially, when it comes to India's contribution, India has been taking the lead when it comes to the International Solar Alliance, the Biofuel Alliance as well. You have, in fact, joined the International Solar Alliance as well. So how do you see cooperating with India when it comes to dealing with the challenge of climate change? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Well, we need to cooperate very closely. In Panama, we are taking steps. We have already relocated an important community in the North East Atlantic because of climate change. We are investing more and more in renewable energy, and your country is a leader in solar energy. And again, we need to be together in this battle against climate change, not only Panama and India but the whole world. And we hope that Panama, in the Security Council, will present this as an important issue to be addressed by, you know, the world community. We recognize your commitment to tackle climate change, your commitment to reduce the impact of greenhouse gases. I know that you have reforested millions and millions of trees. That's a good example for the world, and we need to, you know, to take advantage. We are one of the three countries being carbon negative because we have a huge, huge, you know, forest reserve. We can learn from each other. We can share experiences. Sidhant Sibal: When it comes to the Russia-Ukraine war, or when it comes to the situation between Washington and Beijing. How does it impact countries in Latin America and countries like yours, in terms of the situation on the ground, and in terms of food security, in terms of energy security? Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez: Okay, first, we have condemned the aggression of Russia on Ukraine. That's a violation of international law, and we would like to see a stop to that conflict. We would like to see that Ukraine gets back its territory. There's no need for a conflict in the 21st century. We hope that the European Union, with the leadership of the USA, a solution can be found very soon. In regard to China and the USA, it is clear that that's a very complex relationship. But based on that, Panama could be a beneficiary of the situation. India can invest in our country. We know that India has a very capable entrepreneur class, so I'm willing to work closely with your ambassador Dr Sumit Seth, with your authorities to take advantage of Panama. We are a peace-loving country.

We understand the rise of India as a power: Panama FM Javier Vásquez

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