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Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Monday (July 29) won a third term in office with 51 per cent of the vote, the country's electoral authority said despite multiple exit polls which pointed to an opposition win. Maduro, 61, will now be president for another six years. In office since 2013, he is accused of locking up critics and harassing the opposition in a climate of rising authoritarianism.

Venezuela Elections 2024: Incumbent Nicolas Maduro wins third term

<p>When Nicolas Maduro Moras took over charge at Venezuela after the untimely death of revolutionary socialist leader Hugo Chavez in 2013, not many expected him to have such a long stint at the helm. On Sunday (July 28), Maduro, the 61-year-old former bus driver declared himself the victor the contentious presidential election of the South American nation. This will be his third consecutive term, which lasts for another six years.</p>

<p>The election results were immediately rejected by opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. Maria herself was banned by Madoro's regime from contesting, and instead the&nbsp;opposition fielded&nbsp;Edmundo Gonzalez. The opposition is claiming that Gonzalez&nbsp;&nbsp;won 70 per cent of the vote. But for now, Maduro appears to be firmly in the driver's seat yet again, all set for a third term as president.</p>

<h2>Who is Nicolas Maduro?</h2>

<p>Maduro was born into a working class Roman Catholic family in Caracas. His father was a prominent trade unionist.</p>

<p>A bus driver by profession, Maduro was part of Hugo Chavez's United Socialist Party. Having risen through its trade union, he was elected to the country's parliament, the National Assembly, for the first time in 2000.</p>

<p>Soon Maduro became the right hand man of Chavez, who was a fan of Che Guevera, and had led 'silent coups' to become president. The positions Maduro held over time include the president of National Assembly (2005-06) and foreign minister (2006-13) before becoming the vice president under Chavez (2012-13). &nbsp;</p>

<p>Eventually after Chavez died of cancer, Maduro took charge as president in 2013, winning the special presidential election.</p>

<h2>Not a smooth ride for the former bus driver</h2>

<p>But power was not a smooth ride for the leader of the oil-rich country. Venezuela has been for years the site of political experimentations by the US, which saw it as part of the sphere of influence and was averse to a communist leadership in the country. Like it did in the case of Cuba and Chile, and numerous other Latin American countries during much of the Cold War era, the US tried to oust Maduro in a number of ways, including by supporting and propping up alternative leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prominent among such leaders was the former speaker of the Venezuelan parliament Geaido. He was feted in the US and at one point gave a tough challenge to Maduro, but the socialist party machinery managed to weather that storm too.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-election-president-nicolas-maduro-wins-third-term-745123"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Venezuela election: President Nicolas Maduro wins third term, opposition rejects result</strong></a></p>

<h2>Venezuela under Maduro: A nation under siege</h2>

<p>What could have been one of the richest nations due to its oil wealth, Venezuela continued to languish in poverty under Maduro. But his ground support among the working classes remained strong, something that helped him maintain a firm grip on power. Venezuela faced immense inflation, with its currency highly devalued, and natural resources like petroleum nationalised by the Maduro regime. Essential goods shortages had led many Venezuelans to flee the country, particularly to neighbouring Colombia.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under Maduro's regime, at least seven million people have fled the country and more than 20,000 people died in extrajudicial killings according to human rights observers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-presidential-elections-2024-incumbent-nicolas-maduro-wins-third-term-745164"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Venezuela Presidential Elections 2024: Incumbent Nicolas Maduro wins third term</strong></a></p>

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<h2>Facing down the Opposition, the Maduro way</h2>

<p>Maduro has ruled with an iron fist, inspite of multiple protests challenging him. Those include the mainly middle class agitations in 2014. In 2015, the National Assembly was won by opposition parties, yet Maduro held on to power, with the so-called Supreme Tribunal, the National Electoral Council and the armed forces on his side.</p>

<p>He quelled a recall effort in 2016, led by the speaker of the opposition-led National Assembly Juan Guaidó. He had done this by making the Supreme Tribunal remove the powers of the assembly, which had led to further protests in 2017. To solve the constitutional crisis created by this situation, Maduro made efforts to rewrite the constitution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At one point, there was even a strange situation of 'two presidents' in Venezuela. While Maduro was sworn in as president after the May 2018 presidential elections, the opposition-led National Assembly declared its leader Guaido as interim president. The tussle continued for four years, with Guaido explicitly backed by the US, which even invited him to the Congress.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


When Nicolas Maduro Moras took over charge at Venezuela after the untimely death of revolutionary socialist leader Hugo Chavez in 2013, not many expected him to have such a long stint at the helm.

When Nicolas Maduro Moras took over charge at Venezuela after the untimely death of revolutionary socialist leader Hugo Chavez in 2013, not many expected him to have such a long stint at the helm. On Sunday (July 28), Maduro, the 61-year-old former bus driver declared himself the victor the contentious presidential election of the South American nation. This will be his third consecutive term, which lasts for another six years. The election results were immediately rejected by opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. Maria herself was banned by Madoro's regime from contesting, and instead the opposition fielded Edmundo Gonzalez. The opposition is claiming that Gonzalez won 70 per cent of the vote. But for now, Maduro appears to be firmly in the driver's seat yet again, all set for a third term as president. Who is Nicolas Maduro? Maduro was born into a working class Roman Catholic family in Caracas. His father was a prominent trade unionist. A bus driver by profession, Maduro was part of Hugo Chavez's United Socialist Party. Having risen through its trade union, he was elected to the country's parliament, the National Assembly, for the first time in 2000. Soon Maduro became the right hand man of Chavez, who was a fan of Che Guevera, and had led 'silent coups' to become president. The positions Maduro held over time include the president of National Assembly (2005-06) and foreign minister (2006-13) before becoming the vice president under Chavez (2012-13). Eventually after Chavez died of cancer, Maduro took charge as president in 2013, winning the special presidential election. Not a smooth ride for the former bus driver But power was not a smooth ride for the leader of the oil-rich country. Venezuela has been for years the site of political experimentations by the US, which saw it as part of the sphere of influence and was averse to a communist leadership in the country. Like it did in the case of Cuba and Chile, and numerous other Latin American countries during much of the Cold War era, the US tried to oust Maduro in a number of ways, including by supporting and propping up alternative leaders. Prominent among such leaders was the former speaker of the Venezuelan parliament Geaido. He was feted in the US and at one point gave a tough challenge to Maduro, but the socialist party machinery managed to weather that storm too. Also read | Venezuela election: President Nicolas Maduro wins third term, opposition rejects result Venezuela under Maduro: A nation under siege What could have been one of the richest nations due to its oil wealth, Venezuela continued to languish in poverty under Maduro. But his ground support among the working classes remained strong, something that helped him maintain a firm grip on power. Venezuela faced immense inflation, with its currency highly devalued, and natural resources like petroleum nationalised by the Maduro regime. Essential goods shortages had led many Venezuelans to flee the country, particularly to neighbouring Colombia. Under Maduro's regime, at least seven million people have fled the country and more than 20,000 people died in extrajudicial killings according to human rights observers. Watch | Venezuela Presidential Elections 2024: Incumbent Nicolas Maduro wins third term × Facing down the Opposition, the Maduro way Maduro has ruled with an iron fist, inspite of multiple protests challenging him. Those include the mainly middle class agitations in 2014. In 2015, the National Assembly was won by opposition parties, yet Maduro held on to power, with the so-called Supreme Tribunal, the National Electoral Council and the armed forces on his side. He quelled a recall effort in 2016, led by the speaker of the opposition-led National Assembly Juan Guaidó. He had done this by making the Supreme Tribunal remove the powers of the assembly, which had led to further protests in 2017. To solve the constitutional crisis created by this situation, Maduro made efforts to rewrite the constitution. At one point, there was even a strange situation of 'two presidents' in Venezuela. While Maduro was sworn in as president after the May 2018 presidential elections, the opposition-led National Assembly declared its leader Guaido as interim president. The tussle continued for four years, with Guaido explicitly backed by the US, which even invited him to the Congress. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's bus driver-turned-president, who won yet another term?

<p>Just Stop Oil protesters, in their latest action, stormed London's Gatwick airport early Monday (Jul&nbsp;29). They are blocking the departure gates using suitcases with lock-on devices. The group informed about the action, saying that seven of their activists entered the airport's southern terminal at 8 am. Just Stop Oil also shared a photo on their website, showing the protesters blocking one of the entrances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the group said, "As long as political leaders fail to take swift and decisive action to protect our communities from the worst effects of climate breakdown, Just Stop Oil supporters, working with other groups internationally, will take the proportionate action necessary to generate much needed political pressure."</p>

<p>"This summer, areas of key importance to the fossil fuel economy will be declared sites of civil resistance around the world."</p>

<p>The group added that the situation is still developing at the airport. Meanwhile, Sky News reported, quoting a London Gatwick spokesperson, that the airport is "operating normally today". He added that the protesters have been arrested. "There are a small number of protestors at the airport who have now been arrested and are being removed from the airport."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/environmental-activists-arrested-for-spraying-orange-paint-on-private-jets-at-uk-airport-733581"><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;Environmental activists arrested for spraying orange paint on private jets at UK airport</a></p>

<h2>Other incidents involving Just Stop Oil activists</h2>

<p>Just Stop Oil activists have been regularly conducting such acts in the United Kingdom to draw attention towards the impact of fossil fuels on the environment. Earlier this month, two of their activists were found guilty of criminal damage for throwing tomato soup at Vincent van Gogh‘s Sunflowers. The incident happened in 2022 when Phoebe Plummer and Anna Holland threw soup at the painting at the National Gallery of Art in London. They also glued their hands to a wall. The two will be sentenced in September.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/environmental-activists-spray-orange-substance-on-uks-stonehenge-police-arrest-two-733259">Also read:&nbsp;Indian-origin man among two arrested by British police for spraying orange substance on UK's Stonehenge</a></p>

<p>In October 2023, five activists of Just Stop Oil were arrested after they stopped a performance of Les Miserables at the Sondheim Theatre in London's West End. They stormed the stage holding banners during a performance of the song "Do You Hear the People Sing?"</p>

<p>They also disrupted a cricket match in June last year. Three of their members invaded the cricket pitch on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test being played at Lord’s. They threw an orange powder on the pitch, with England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow managing to lift one of the protesters off the field.&nbsp;</p>


Just Stop Oil protesters, in their latest action, stormed London's Gatwick airport early Monday (Jul 29). They are blocking the departure gates using suitcases with lock-on devices.

Just Stop Oil protesters, in their latest action, stormed London's Gatwick airport early Monday (Jul 29). They are blocking the departure gates using suitcases with lock-on devices. The group informed about the action, saying that seven of their activists entered the airport's southern terminal at 8 am. Just Stop Oil also shared a photo on their website, showing the protesters blocking one of the entrances. In a statement, the group said, "As long as political leaders fail to take swift and decisive action to protect our communities from the worst effects of climate breakdown, Just Stop Oil supporters, working with other groups internationally, will take the proportionate action necessary to generate much needed political pressure." "This summer, areas of key importance to the fossil fuel economy will be declared sites of civil resistance around the world." The group added that the situation is still developing at the airport. Meanwhile, Sky News reported, quoting a London Gatwick spokesperson, that the airport is "operating normally today". He added that the protesters have been arrested. "There are a small number of protestors at the airport who have now been arrested and are being removed from the airport." Also Read: Environmental activists arrested for spraying orange paint on private jets at UK airport Other incidents involving Just Stop Oil activists Just Stop Oil activists have been regularly conducting such acts in the United Kingdom to draw attention towards the impact of fossil fuels on the environment. Earlier this month, two of their activists were found guilty of criminal damage for throwing tomato soup at Vincent van Gogh‘s Sunflowers. The incident happened in 2022 when Phoebe Plummer and Anna Holland threw soup at the painting at the National Gallery of Art in London. They also glued their hands to a wall. The two will be sentenced in September. Also read: Indian-origin man among two arrested by British police for spraying orange substance on UK's Stonehenge In October 2023, five activists of Just Stop Oil were arrested after they stopped a performance of Les Miserables at the Sondheim Theatre in London's West End. They stormed the stage holding banners during a performance of the song "Do You Hear the People Sing?" They also disrupted a cricket match in June last year. Three of their members invaded the cricket pitch on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test being played at Lord’s. They threw an orange powder on the pitch, with England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow managing to lift one of the protesters off the field.

Just Stop Oil protesters enter Gatwick Airport, block departure gates

<p>Thomas Crooks, the failed assassin of Donald Trump, was aware that he was being tracked by law enforcement, which knew about his movements at least 100 minutes before he pulled the trigger on July 13, according to text messages analysed in a report by the New York Times.</p>

<p>In a detailed investigative report on Sunda (July 28)&nbsp;the New York Times said that the failed assassin was always a step ahead of law enforcement agencies.</p>

<p>NYT reporters analysed the timestamps of videos, photos, and relevant text messages to reach this conclusion. If the report is accurate, it means that the presence of Crooks in the area was known to law enforcement much in advance than earlier reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Trump assassination attempt: What the text messages say</h2>

<p>The series of text messages among the local cops started nearly an hour and a half before the former US president took the stage in Butler, Pennsylvania to address a rally of supporters.<br />
<br />
One police countersniper - different from the Secret Service countersniper who eventually shot and killed Crooks- texted: “Guys I am out. Be safe.” This was sent at the end of his shift, to&nbsp;two other local counter snipers who were still in the area.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/president-donaldduck-elon-musk-claims-google-biased-against-trump-interfering-in-us-elections-745191">President Donald...Duck?: Elon Musk claims Google biased against Trump, interfering in US Elections</a></strong></p>

<p>The same countersniper noticed Crooks and again texted his colleagues about "a young man with long stringy hair sitting on a picnic table near the warehouse" of AG International. That's the building from the roof of which Crooks eventually fired the shots at Trump. The report said that the description in the text matched the appearance of Crooks.</p>

<p>The local cop wrote that the person "would have seen" him come out with his rifle and “knows you guys are up there,” as per the NYT report.</p>

<p>This happened nearly 100 minutes before Crooks pulled the trigger.</p>

<p>The report said another countersniper snapped photos of Crooks, which were shared in a group chat of the officers, with one saying they should inform the Secret Service.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Trump vows to make US 'Crypto capital'</strong></p>

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<p>The exact text went: “Kid learning [sic] around the building we are in. AGR [AGR International building] I believe it is. I did see him with a range finder looking towards the stage. FYI. If you wanna notify SS [Secret Service] snipers to look out. I lost sight of him.”</p>

<p>The text messages and other documents were provided by Beaver County Emergency Services Unit to Republican Senator Charles E Grassley of Iowa, who passed them on to NYT.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also said that Crooks had "scoped out the rally site" one day before the Secret Service, using a drone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has been reported that Crooks' online searches prior to the shooting revealed he wanted to know how far away the shooter Lee Harvey Oswald was from John F Kennedy when he assassinated the US president in 1969. He also searched for the Trump rally details and registered for it. Other searches included US President Joe Biden, depression disorder.</p>

<p>Eventually, a Secret Service sniper killed Crooks but only after his bullet managed to graze the ear of the Republican presidential candidate.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Thomas Crooks, the failed assassin of Donald Trump, was aware that he was being tracked by law enforcement, which knew about his movements at least 100 minutes before he pulled the trigger on July 13, according to text messages analysed in a report by the New York Times.

Thomas Crooks, the failed assassin of Donald Trump, was aware that he was being tracked by law enforcement, which knew about his movements at least 100 minutes before he pulled the trigger on July 13, according to text messages analysed in a report by the New York Times. In a detailed investigative report on Sunda (July 28) the New York Times said that the failed assassin was always a step ahead of law enforcement agencies. NYT reporters analysed the timestamps of videos, photos, and relevant text messages to reach this conclusion. If the report is accurate, it means that the presence of Crooks in the area was known to law enforcement much in advance than earlier reported. Trump assassination attempt: What the text messages say The series of text messages among the local cops started nearly an hour and a half before the former US president took the stage in Butler, Pennsylvania to address a rally of supporters. One police countersniper - different from the Secret Service countersniper who eventually shot and killed Crooks- texted: “Guys I am out. Be safe.” This was sent at the end of his shift, to two other local counter snipers who were still in the area. Also read | President Donald...Duck?: Elon Musk claims Google biased against Trump, interfering in US Elections The same countersniper noticed Crooks and again texted his colleagues about "a young man with long stringy hair sitting on a picnic table near the warehouse" of AG International. That's the building from the roof of which Crooks eventually fired the shots at Trump. The report said that the description in the text matched the appearance of Crooks. The local cop wrote that the person "would have seen" him come out with his rifle and “knows you guys are up there,” as per the NYT report. This happened nearly 100 minutes before Crooks pulled the trigger. The report said another countersniper snapped photos of Crooks, which were shared in a group chat of the officers, with one saying they should inform the Secret Service. Also watch | Trump vows to make US 'Crypto capital' × The exact text went: “Kid learning [sic] around the building we are in. AGR [AGR International building] I believe it is. I did see him with a range finder looking towards the stage. FYI. If you wanna notify SS [Secret Service] snipers to look out. I lost sight of him.” The text messages and other documents were provided by Beaver County Emergency Services Unit to Republican Senator Charles E Grassley of Iowa, who passed them on to NYT. The report also said that Crooks had "scoped out the rally site" one day before the Secret Service, using a drone. It has been reported that Crooks' online searches prior to the shooting revealed he wanted to know how far away the shooter Lee Harvey Oswald was from John F Kennedy when he assassinated the US president in 1969. He also searched for the Trump rally details and registered for it. Other searches included US President Joe Biden, depression disorder. Eventually, a Secret Service sniper killed Crooks but only after his bullet managed to graze the ear of the Republican presidential candidate. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was spotted by cops nearly 100 minutes before shooting: Report

Quad Foreign ministers met in Tokyo on Monday for talks expected to focus on maritime security and initiatives to build up cyber defenses. Watch in for more details!

Quad foreign ministers meet in Tokyo for talks on maritime security

<p>The French authorities have arrested a far-left extremist in connection to the sabotage attack on the country's high-speed rail network on the day of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interior Minister&nbsp;Gerald Darmanin informed about the arrest on Monday (Jul 29), adding that the government suspects the role of far-left groups behind the coordinated attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have identified the profiles of several people.&nbsp;This is the traditional type of action of the ultra-left," Darmanin told a French news channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the arrest comes on the same day as when optic&nbsp;fibre networks were sabotaged in six areas across France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent years, France has witnessed a rise in attacks by Islamist militants but authorities are equally worried about the rise of far-left and anarchist militants who usually protest against the state and its approval of capitalism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports indicate that far-left groups have increased recruitment in the last year after President Emmanuel Macron pushed his highly unpopular pension reforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nicolas Lerner, former head of France's domestic intelligence agency, said last year that far-left groups are often involved in damaging the public infrastructure to make their point heard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In recent years, the far-left movements have been known for particularly violent clandestine actions, including arson campaigns,&nbsp;ransacking and destruction of property," Lerner told <em>Le Monde </em>newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Paris Olympics: WION Sports Editor's first-hand account of tight security after rail sabotage</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Status of rail lines?</strong></h2>

<p>National rail operator SNCF on Sunday (JUL 28) said the damage had been repaired and trains were back running on time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thanks to the exceptional efforts of SNCF Network staff, who worked non-stop since Friday morning, repairs are now fully completed on all the high-speed rail services affected by the sabotage attacks," the operator said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fire-optics-network-sabotaged-in-france-as-train-services-are-back-to-normal-745181"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Fibre optics network sabotaged in France after train services return to normal</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>The incident took place on Friday (Jul 26), hours before the start of the Opening ceremony that crippled the entire rail network across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, the cables which are there to ensure the security of train drivers - were set on fire and taken apart by the disruptors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 800,000 passengers were affected by the disruption on a day when France was preparing to show the world its hosting prowess. Additionally,&nbsp;two of the four trains carrying athletes were affected by the outage as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The French authorities have arrested a far-left extremist in connection to the sabotage attack on the country's high-speed rail network on the day of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony last week.

The French authorities have arrested a far-left extremist in connection to the sabotage attack on the country's high-speed rail network on the day of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony last week. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin informed about the arrest on Monday (Jul 29), adding that the government suspects the role of far-left groups behind the coordinated attack. "We have identified the profiles of several people. This is the traditional type of action of the ultra-left," Darmanin told a French news channel. Notably, the arrest comes on the same day as when optic fibre networks were sabotaged in six areas across France. In recent years, France has witnessed a rise in attacks by Islamist militants but authorities are equally worried about the rise of far-left and anarchist militants who usually protest against the state and its approval of capitalism. Reports indicate that far-left groups have increased recruitment in the last year after President Emmanuel Macron pushed his highly unpopular pension reforms. Nicolas Lerner, former head of France's domestic intelligence agency, said last year that far-left groups are often involved in damaging the public infrastructure to make their point heard. "In recent years, the far-left movements have been known for particularly violent clandestine actions, including arson campaigns, ransacking and destruction of property," Lerner told Le Monde newspaper. Watch | Paris Olympics: WION Sports Editor's first-hand account of tight security after rail sabotage × Status of rail lines? National rail operator SNCF on Sunday (JUL 28) said the damage had been repaired and trains were back running on time. "Thanks to the exceptional efforts of SNCF Network staff, who worked non-stop since Friday morning, repairs are now fully completed on all the high-speed rail services affected by the sabotage attacks," the operator said. Also read | Fibre optics network sabotaged in France after train services return to normal What happened? The incident took place on Friday (Jul 26), hours before the start of the Opening ceremony that crippled the entire rail network across the country. According to reports, the cables which are there to ensure the security of train drivers - were set on fire and taken apart by the disruptors. Around 800,000 passengers were affected by the disruption on a day when France was preparing to show the world its hosting prowess. Additionally, two of the four trains carrying athletes were affected by the outage as well. (With inputs from agencies)

Paris Olympics: Far-left extremist arrested for sabotaging high-speed rail network

West Asia is on edge. The fear of an all-out war between Israel and Iran backed Hezbollah is looming large in the region yet again and this comes after a rocket attack in Golan heights killed 12 teenagers and children. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hezbollah tensions: What would be Netanyahu's next move?

Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara held trilateral talks with his US and South Korean counterparts. The three signed a treaty as well to enhance security ties between the three countries. Watch in for more details!

Japan signs a Security Treaty US and South Korea

The Elgin Marbles could be returned to Greece after more than 200 years as part of a "Parthenon partnership" proposed by a British Museum chief.

UK government mulls return of iconic sculptures to Greece

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<p>The Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport&nbsp;in Lebanon on Monday (Jul&nbsp;29)&nbsp;cancelled or delayed flights&nbsp;as tensions escalated between Israel and Hezbollah.&nbsp;A rocket strike that killed 12 teenagers and children in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights on Saturday.</p>

<p>Israel blamed Hezbollah for the attack which has added to concerns that Israel and the&nbsp;Iran-backed group could engage in a full-scale war. Hezbollah has denied responsibility for the attack.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-jets-bomb-hezbollah-targets-deep-in-lebanon-a-day-after-golan-heights-attack-744979">Israeli jets bomb Hezbollah targets deep in Lebanon a day after Golan Heights attack</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Lebanon's&nbsp;Middle East Airlines (MEA) said that the disruptions to its&nbsp;schedule were&nbsp;related to insurance risks. Lufthansa said&nbsp;it had suspended five routes to and from Beirut by the group's carriers Swiss International Air Lines, Eurowings, and Lufthansa up to and including July 30 "in an abundance of caution."</p>

<h2><strong>The flight cancellations</strong></h2>

<p>Citing&nbsp;Beirut airport's flight information board and&nbsp;tracking website Flightradar24, Reuters reported that&nbsp;Turkish Airlines also cancelled two flights overnight on Sunday. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Turkish Airlines subsidiary AJet, Greek carrier Aegean Airlines, and Ethiopian Air cancelled flights&nbsp;scheduled to land in Beirut on Monday.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport is Lebanon's only airport and has been targeted in the country's civil war and previous fighting with Israel. Since the Gaza war began in October last year, Hezbollah and Israel have increased&nbsp;cross-border exchanges of fire.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Golan Heights attack: What would be Netanyahu's next move?</strong></p>

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<p>Lufthansa has already suspended night-time flights to and from Beirut for July due to "current developments" in the Middle East.</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli cabinet authorises govt to respond to Hezbollah strike</strong></h2>

<p>Israel's security cabinet on Sunday authorised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to respond to the rocket strike in Golan Heights which has been blamed on Hezbollah.</p>

<p>Israel has vowed retaliation against Hezbollah in&nbsp;Lebanon, and Israeli jets hit targets in southern&nbsp;Lebanon on Sunday.</p>

<p>In a statement, Prime Minister Netanyahu's office said that the security cabinet authorised the government to decide on the manner and timing of the response."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport in Lebanon on Monday (Jul 29) cancelled or delayed flights as tensions escalated between Israel and Hezbollah. A rocket strike that killed 12 teenagers and children in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights on Saturday.

The Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport in Lebanon on Monday (Jul 29) cancelled or delayed flights as tensions escalated between Israel and Hezbollah. A rocket strike that killed 12 teenagers and children in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights on Saturday. Israel blamed Hezbollah for the attack which has added to concerns that Israel and the Iran-backed group could engage in a full-scale war. Hezbollah has denied responsibility for the attack. Also read | Israeli jets bomb Hezbollah targets deep in Lebanon a day after Golan Heights attack According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Lebanon's Middle East Airlines (MEA) said that the disruptions to its schedule were related to insurance risks. Lufthansa said it had suspended five routes to and from Beirut by the group's carriers Swiss International Air Lines, Eurowings, and Lufthansa up to and including July 30 "in an abundance of caution." The flight cancellations Citing Beirut airport's flight information board and tracking website Flightradar24, Reuters reported that Turkish Airlines also cancelled two flights overnight on Sunday. Meanwhile, Turkish Airlines subsidiary AJet, Greek carrier Aegean Airlines, and Ethiopian Air cancelled flights scheduled to land in Beirut on Monday. The Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport is Lebanon's only airport and has been targeted in the country's civil war and previous fighting with Israel. Since the Gaza war began in October last year, Hezbollah and Israel have increased cross-border exchanges of fire. Also watch | Golan Heights attack: What would be Netanyahu's next move? × Lufthansa has already suspended night-time flights to and from Beirut for July due to "current developments" in the Middle East. Israeli cabinet authorises govt to respond to Hezbollah strike Israel's security cabinet on Sunday authorised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to respond to the rocket strike in Golan Heights which has been blamed on Hezbollah. Israel has vowed retaliation against Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Israeli jets hit targets in southern Lebanon on Sunday. In a statement, Prime Minister Netanyahu's office said that the security cabinet authorised the government to decide on the manner and timing of the response." (With inputs from agencies)

Golan Heights attack: Lebanon's Beirut airport cancels flights amid fears of Israeli attack

President Joe Biden will announce plans to reform the US supreme court on Monday. Biden is likely to endorse establishing term limits for justices and an enforceable code of ethics. Watch in for more details!

US President Joe Biden may announce plans for Supreme Court reform

President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday that Turkey might enter Israel as it had done in the past in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Erdogan warns, 'Turkey might enter Israel to help Palestinians'

<p>Japan is strictly implementing laws on electric rolling suitcases&nbsp;used by tourists, in its latest attempt to fight overtourism as the Asian country faces a massive growth in visitors.</p>

<p>Already under&nbsp;Japanese law, users will have to show safety documents to be able to 'drive' these suitcases, but many tourists are unaware of such regulations. The law defines electric suitcases as “motorised vehicles that can be ridden on roads only with the required safety equipment and a driving licence.”</p>

<p>While the motorised suitcases have been popularised by celebrities like Paris Hilton and Shilpa Shetty, the luggage-on-the-go has been subject of safety concerns recently. In June, a woman from China allegedly drove such a suitcase on a sidewalk, Kyodo news agency reported. An Indonesian kid rode such a suitcase in a busy Dotonbori shopping district, causing commotion in July.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/autonews/japans-honda-to-close-china-plant-stop-production-at-second-factory-744164">Japan's Honda to close China plant, stop production at second factory</a></strong></p>

<p>Kyodo reported that two Japanese airports have already banned the use of such suitcases in their premises.</p>

<p>Japanese police have asked retailers to warn about the laws regulating their use before they make the purchase.</p>

<h2><b>What is a rideable suitcase?</b></h2>

<p><br />
The rolling suitcases have become ubiquitous in Japanese airports and elsewhere in Asia. These usually have three or four wheels attached to moped-like frames and handles, with advanced models even featuring navigation panels. Looking similar to toy bikes used by children, these electric suitcases are powered by lithium-ion batteries.</p>

<p>Users can 'ride' the bags just by sitting on them and navigating the handle.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Japan vs overtourism: Blocking Fuji, introducing dual pricing</h2>

<p>The ongoing crackdown on rideable luggage&nbsp;is the latest in Japan's attempts to curtail overtourism and the nuisances associated with it.</p>

<p>Just a few months ago, it blocked the view of Mount Fuji with a giant&nbsp;black barrier. This was because the popular instagram photo site became a hotspot for tourists who often exhibited rowdy behaviour.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Japan signs security treaty with US, South Korea</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The barrier, made with a meshed wire &nbsp;2.5 metres&nbsp;high and 20 metres long, was erected in May.</p>

<p>Another move being mooted is differential pricing for tourists. With this, Japan will charge foreign tourists more for certain items under a two-tier system.</p>

<p>The price difference is as high as 1,100 Yen in some restaurants, according to Asia News Network, which noted that the depreciation of the Japanese currency has made several items incredibly cheap for foreign visitors.</p>

<h2><strong>A record tourism inflow to Japan</strong></h2>

<p>The moves come amid a massive tourism boom in Japan that broke records this year. In the first half of 2024, Japan saw 17.78 million tourists, according to its&nbsp;tourism agency. The weakening of Yen has helped drive these numbers. Currently, the tourism inflow has crossed pre-Covid pandemic levels, according to a report in Reuters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Japan is strictly implementing laws on electric rolling suitcases used by tourists, in its latest attempt to fight overtourism as the Asian country faces a massive growth in visitors.

Japan is strictly implementing laws on electric rolling suitcases used by tourists, in its latest attempt to fight overtourism as the Asian country faces a massive growth in visitors. Already under Japanese law, users will have to show safety documents to be able to 'drive' these suitcases, but many tourists are unaware of such regulations. The law defines electric suitcases as “motorised vehicles that can be ridden on roads only with the required safety equipment and a driving licence.” While the motorised suitcases have been popularised by celebrities like Paris Hilton and Shilpa Shetty, the luggage-on-the-go has been subject of safety concerns recently. In June, a woman from China allegedly drove such a suitcase on a sidewalk, Kyodo news agency reported. An Indonesian kid rode such a suitcase in a busy Dotonbori shopping district, causing commotion in July. Also read | Japan's Honda to close China plant, stop production at second factory Kyodo reported that two Japanese airports have already banned the use of such suitcases in their premises. Japanese police have asked retailers to warn about the laws regulating their use before they make the purchase. What is a rideable suitcase? The rolling suitcases have become ubiquitous in Japanese airports and elsewhere in Asia. These usually have three or four wheels attached to moped-like frames and handles, with advanced models even featuring navigation panels. Looking similar to toy bikes used by children, these electric suitcases are powered by lithium-ion batteries. Users can 'ride' the bags just by sitting on them and navigating the handle. Japan vs overtourism: Blocking Fuji, introducing dual pricing The ongoing crackdown on rideable luggage is the latest in Japan's attempts to curtail overtourism and the nuisances associated with it. Just a few months ago, it blocked the view of Mount Fuji with a giant black barrier. This was because the popular instagram photo site became a hotspot for tourists who often exhibited rowdy behaviour. Also watch | Japan signs security treaty with US, South Korea × The barrier, made with a meshed wire 2.5 metres high and 20 metres long, was erected in May. Another move being mooted is differential pricing for tourists. With this, Japan will charge foreign tourists more for certain items under a two-tier system. The price difference is as high as 1,100 Yen in some restaurants, according to Asia News Network, which noted that the depreciation of the Japanese currency has made several items incredibly cheap for foreign visitors. A record tourism inflow to Japan The moves come amid a massive tourism boom in Japan that broke records this year. In the first half of 2024, Japan saw 17.78 million tourists, according to its tourism agency. The weakening of Yen has helped drive these numbers. Currently, the tourism inflow has crossed pre-Covid pandemic levels, according to a report in Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan has had enough of these moped-style electric suitcases used by tourists and is cracking down

The 100-day sprint to the US election began on July 28, the final act in a campaign transformed by an assassination attempt and the stunning exit of President Joe Biden. Watch in for more details!

US presidential race enters new phase with 100 days until Election Day

Former UK Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch is joining the race to lead the Conservative Party following the worst election defeat in its history. Watch in for more details!

UK: Kemi Badenoch becomes sixth Tory to launch bid to party leadership

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<p>Fibre optic networks were sabotaged in&nbsp;parts of France on Monday (July 29), days after the country's high-speed train network was disrupted during the weekend. Citing the police, a report by the news agency AFP said that the&nbsp;optic networks of several telecommunications operators were sabotaged in six areas across France.</p>

<p>There was no impact on services&nbsp;in Paris.</p>

<p>A report by Le Monde, meanwhile, said fibre optic cables running near the tracks and ensuring the transmission of safety information for drivers&nbsp;were cut and set on fire in the attacks on three of the main high-speed TGV lines, in the west, north and east of France.</p>

<h2><strong>Train services back to normal</strong></h2>

<p>The&nbsp;high-speed train network was back to normal on Monday days after coordinated acts of sabotage heavily disrupted travel before the Olympics opening ceremony, Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-initiates-investigation-after-israeli-athletes-at-paris-olympics-receive-death-threats-745032">France initiates investigation after Israeli athletes at Paris Olympics receive death threats</a></strong></p>

<p>It is not yet known who carried out the three arson attacks on strategic points of the rail infrastructure last Friday,&nbsp;or if they were deliberately timed to disrupt the Olympics ceremony that day.</p>

<p>The network gradually returned to normal over the weekend following repairs. Speaking to a radio station, Transport Minister&nbsp;Vergriete said, "This morning, all trains are running."</p>

<p>The attacks affected 800,000 travellers, but "in the end, 700,000 were able to make their trips" while 100,000 were hit by train cancellations, he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Ultra-left activist arrested for sabotage</strong></h2>

<p>Authorities&nbsp;arrested an activist belonging to an ultra-left movement at a site belonging to national rail operator SNCF, days after the train network was sabotaged. Citing a source, AFP reported on Monday that the man was detained&nbsp;in Oissel and had access to&nbsp;SNCF technical premises, tools and literature linked to the ultra-left.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Paris Olympics 2024: South Korea Women's Archery team win 10th straight Gold</strong></p>

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<p>He was placed in police custody for questioning in Rouen, the main city of&nbsp;France's Normandy region.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Fibre optic networks were sabotaged in parts of France on Monday (July 29), days after the country's high-speed train network was disrupted during the weekend. Citing the police, a report by the news agency AFP said that the optic networks of several telecommunications operators were sabotaged in six areas across France.

Fibre optic networks were sabotaged in parts of France on Monday (July 29), days after the country's high-speed train network was disrupted during the weekend. Citing the police, a report by the news agency AFP said that the optic networks of several telecommunications operators were sabotaged in six areas across France. There was no impact on services in Paris. A report by Le Monde, meanwhile, said fibre optic cables running near the tracks and ensuring the transmission of safety information for drivers were cut and set on fire in the attacks on three of the main high-speed TGV lines, in the west, north and east of France. Train services back to normal The high-speed train network was back to normal on Monday days after coordinated acts of sabotage heavily disrupted travel before the Olympics opening ceremony, Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete said. Also read | France initiates investigation after Israeli athletes at Paris Olympics receive death threats It is not yet known who carried out the three arson attacks on strategic points of the rail infrastructure last Friday, or if they were deliberately timed to disrupt the Olympics ceremony that day. The network gradually returned to normal over the weekend following repairs. Speaking to a radio station, Transport Minister Vergriete said, "This morning, all trains are running." The attacks affected 800,000 travellers, but "in the end, 700,000 were able to make their trips" while 100,000 were hit by train cancellations, he said. Ultra-left activist arrested for sabotage Authorities arrested an activist belonging to an ultra-left movement at a site belonging to national rail operator SNCF, days after the train network was sabotaged. Citing a source, AFP reported on Monday that the man was detained in Oissel and had access to SNCF technical premises, tools and literature linked to the ultra-left. Also watch | Paris Olympics 2024: South Korea Women's Archery team win 10th straight Gold × He was placed in police custody for questioning in Rouen, the main city of France's Normandy region. (With inputs from agencies)

Fibre optics network sabotaged in France after train services return to normal

The fear of an all-out war between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah is looming large in the region. The security cabinet has authorised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to decide on the 'manner and timing' for retaliation. Is West Asia headed for an all-out war? Professor Scott Lucas joins us to discuss.

Fears of an all-out war in West Asia

UK govt mulling loan agreement with Greece for Elgin marbles

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US counterpart Antony Blinken ahead of the Quad meet in Tokyo and both leaders extensively discussed bolstering coordination between India and United States collectively committing to promote a 'free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific region'.

Qaud Foreign Ministers' meet: India FM Jaishankar terms new era as one of 're-globalisation'

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<p>Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Monday (July 29) has won the election with 51 per cent&nbsp;of the vote and a third term in office, announced the country's government-controlled electoral authority even though multiple exit polls had&nbsp;indicated a victory for the opposition. The electoral authority said that&nbsp;opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez won 44 per cent&nbsp;of the vote.</p>

<p>Maduro, 61, will now be president for another six years.&nbsp;In office since 2013, he is accused of locking up critics and harassing the opposition in a climate of rising authoritarianism.</p>

<p>Sunday's election was the product of a mediated deal reached last year between the government and the opposition.</p>

<h2><strong>What did independent polls predict?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report by the news agency AFP, independent polls predicted&nbsp;Sunday's vote would bring an end to 25 years of "Chavismo," the populist movement founded by Maduro's socialist predecessor and mentor, the late Hugo Chavez.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/venezuela-accelerates-shift-to-cryptocurrency-amid-return-of-oil-sanctions-714056">Venezuela accelerates shift to cryptocurrency amid return of oil sanctions</a></strong></p>

<p>Minutes after the announcement of the result, Maduro&nbsp;addressed supporters saying, "There will be peace, stability, and justice." He had previously warned of a bloodbath if he lost the election.</p>

<p>AFP reported that rejecting the opinion polls, the government relied on its own numbers to assert Maduro would defeat Gonzalez.</p>

<h2><strong>Oppn rejects Maduro win claim</strong></h2>

<p>As Maduro's supporters celebrated, opposition voters waited to hear from&nbsp;Gonzalez and&nbsp;Maria Corina Machado.&nbsp;Gonzalez had replaced Machado on the ticket after authorities loyal to Maduro excluded her from the race.</p>

<p>Later on Monday, the opposition coalition rejected the win claimed by Maduro&nbsp;and announced by the electoral authority, saying it had garnered 70 per cent of the vote, not 44 per cent as reported by the authority.</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference, Machado said, "We want to say to all of Venezuela and the world that Venezuela has a new president-elect and it is&nbsp;Edmundo Gonzalez."</p>

<h2><strong>International reaction&nbsp;to poll result</strong></h2>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken&nbsp;said on Monday that Washington had serious concerns that the election results&nbsp;declaring Maduro the winner were not accurate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have serious concerns that the result announced does not reflect the will or the votes of the Venezuelan people," Blinken said in Japan.</p>

<p>He added that every vote should be counted fairly and transparently, "that election officials immediately share information with the opposition and independent observers without delay, and that the electoral authorities publish the detailed tabulation of votes."</p>

<p>Chile's President&nbsp;Gabriel Boric, meanwhile, said that the election result&nbsp;was hard to believe.</p>

<p>Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares urged total transparency in the vote count, while Colombia called for an independent audit of the votes.</p>

<p>"The government of Costa Rica rejects categorically the proclamation of Nicolas Maduro as president of the Bolivarian&nbsp;Republic of Venezuela, which we consider fraudulent," Costa Rican President&nbsp;Rodrigo Chaves said in a post on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Monday (July 29) has won the election with 51 per cent of the vote and a third term in office, announced the country's government-controlled electoral authority even though multiple exit polls had indicated a victory for the opposition.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Monday (July 29) has won the election with 51 per cent of the vote and a third term in office, announced the country's government-controlled electoral authority even though multiple exit polls had indicated a victory for the opposition. The electoral authority said that opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez won 44 per cent of the vote. Maduro, 61, will now be president for another six years. In office since 2013, he is accused of locking up critics and harassing the opposition in a climate of rising authoritarianism. Sunday's election was the product of a mediated deal reached last year between the government and the opposition. What did independent polls predict? According to a report by the news agency AFP, independent polls predicted Sunday's vote would bring an end to 25 years of "Chavismo," the populist movement founded by Maduro's socialist predecessor and mentor, the late Hugo Chavez. Also read | Venezuela accelerates shift to cryptocurrency amid return of oil sanctions Minutes after the announcement of the result, Maduro addressed supporters saying, "There will be peace, stability, and justice." He had previously warned of a bloodbath if he lost the election. AFP reported that rejecting the opinion polls, the government relied on its own numbers to assert Maduro would defeat Gonzalez. Oppn rejects Maduro win claim As Maduro's supporters celebrated, opposition voters waited to hear from Gonzalez and Maria Corina Machado. Gonzalez had replaced Machado on the ticket after authorities loyal to Maduro excluded her from the race. Later on Monday, the opposition coalition rejected the win claimed by Maduro and announced by the electoral authority, saying it had garnered 70 per cent of the vote, not 44 per cent as reported by the authority. Addressing a press conference, Machado said, "We want to say to all of Venezuela and the world that Venezuela has a new president-elect and it is Edmundo Gonzalez." International reaction to poll result US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday that Washington had serious concerns that the election results declaring Maduro the winner were not accurate. "We have serious concerns that the result announced does not reflect the will or the votes of the Venezuelan people," Blinken said in Japan. He added that every vote should be counted fairly and transparently, "that election officials immediately share information with the opposition and independent observers without delay, and that the electoral authorities publish the detailed tabulation of votes." Chile's President Gabriel Boric, meanwhile, said that the election result was hard to believe. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares urged total transparency in the vote count, while Colombia called for an independent audit of the votes. "The government of Costa Rica rejects categorically the proclamation of Nicolas Maduro as president of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, which we consider fraudulent," Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves said in a post on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Venezuela election: President Nicolas Maduro wins third term, opposition rejects result

With less than 100 days to go for the US elections reports say that US President Joe Biden could announce plans to reform the Supreme Court. Watch in for more details!

US President Biden may announce plans on Supreme Court reform

The shadow housing secretary criticised the former prime minister over election blunders at the first shadow cabinet meeting. Kemi Badenoch "ripped into" Rishi Sunak over the Tory election campaign at the first shadow cabinet meeting today, according to reports.

Kemi Badenoch enters Tory race, how will Tories elect new leader?

Headlines of the hour: - UK Chancellor to announce big budgetry cuts - Kemi Badenoch joins fray to be Tory leader - Elgin marbles row: UK hints at agreement with Greece - Lebanon braces for Israeli retaliation - EU urges 'full transparency' in Venezuela elections - Sabotage of fibre optic networks: France police

Lebanon braces for Israeli retaliation | Kemi Badenoch joins fray to be Tory leader

<p><em><strong>Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p>Women and girls as young as nine were raped by Sudan's RSF, which is engaged in conflict with Sudan Armed Forces, also engaged in sexual violence, since the conflict broke out in 2023, according to a report by Human Rights Watch.</p>

<p>Both RSF or Rapid Support Forces and SAF&nbsp;engaged in rape, gang rape, and other forms of sexual violence of girls and women aged up to 60. RSF appears to have been the worst perpetrators when compared to SAF, according to the HRW report released on Sunday (July 28).</p>

<p>HRW was able to document at least 262 survivors of sexual violence since the conflict broke out.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-report-exposes-extreme-levels-of-child-abuse-in-armed-conflicts-especially-in-gaza-and-sudan-730923">UN report exposes 'extreme levels' of child abuse in armed conflicts, especially in Gaza and Sudan</a></strong></p>

<p>According to survivors, many were gang-raped by up to four RSF fighters, in some cases, in front of family members.</p>

<p>"RSF members sexually assaulted women and girls in front of their family members," said the report, particularly noting a case where a mother and her four daughters were raped "repeatedly for days" in front of their father and brothers after putting them under house arrest.</p>

<p>The rights group cited a lawyer who received “reports of rape of six girls, one girl aged 9 years old” and a psychologist who said out of over&nbsp;25 survivor cases he recorded, “at least 80 per cent were aged between 12 and 18."</p>

<p>Men and boys have also been victims of sexual violence, it said.</p>

<p>The conflict-related sexual violence in the impoverished African country was recorded by the rights group from interviews with healthcare professionals, psychiatrists and other care providers&nbsp;in the capital of Khartoum Bahri and Omdurman cities.</p>

<h2>Forced child marriages</h2>

<p>"Women and girls have also been subjected to forced marriage and child marriage," the rights body said in the report, which was compiled&nbsp;based on interviews conducted between September 2023 and February 2024.</p>

<p>The HRW report claimed that RSF forced some women and children into marriage in Khartoum.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UN calls for immediate ceasefire and international efforts in Sudan</strong></p>

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<p>Some relatives agreed to such marriages for financial reasons, or in the hope that they would not be raped outside of marriage.</p>

<h3>Sudan conflict</h3>

<p>RSF is&nbsp;an independent military group&nbsp;engaged in conflict with SAF since April 2023. The conflict broke out as a result of rivalry between two military chiefs who together ousted a civilian transitional government in 2021:&nbsp;General Abdelfattah al-Burhan who leads SAF and Gen&nbsp;Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the RSF leader.</p>

<p>Al-Burhan and Dagalo led the coup against the civilian government of Abdalla Hamdok in October 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Women and girls as young as nine were raped by Sudan's RSF, which is engaged in conflict with Sudan Armed Forces, also engaged in sexual violence, since the conflict broke out in 2023, according to a report by Human Rights Watch.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Women and girls as young as nine were raped by Sudan's RSF, which is engaged in conflict with Sudan Armed Forces, also engaged in sexual violence, since the conflict broke out in 2023, according to a report by Human Rights Watch. Both RSF or Rapid Support Forces and SAF engaged in rape, gang rape, and other forms of sexual violence of girls and women aged up to 60. RSF appears to have been the worst perpetrators when compared to SAF, according to the HRW report released on Sunday (July 28). HRW was able to document at least 262 survivors of sexual violence since the conflict broke out. Also read | UN report exposes 'extreme levels' of child abuse in armed conflicts, especially in Gaza and Sudan According to survivors, many were gang-raped by up to four RSF fighters, in some cases, in front of family members. "RSF members sexually assaulted women and girls in front of their family members," said the report, particularly noting a case where a mother and her four daughters were raped "repeatedly for days" in front of their father and brothers after putting them under house arrest. The rights group cited a lawyer who received “reports of rape of six girls, one girl aged 9 years old” and a psychologist who said out of over 25 survivor cases he recorded, “at least 80 per cent were aged between 12 and 18." Men and boys have also been victims of sexual violence, it said. The conflict-related sexual violence in the impoverished African country was recorded by the rights group from interviews with healthcare professionals, psychiatrists and other care providers in the capital of Khartoum Bahri and Omdurman cities. Forced child marriages "Women and girls have also been subjected to forced marriage and child marriage," the rights body said in the report, which was compiled based on interviews conducted between September 2023 and February 2024. The HRW report claimed that RSF forced some women and children into marriage in Khartoum. Also watch | UN calls for immediate ceasefire and international efforts in Sudan × Some relatives agreed to such marriages for financial reasons, or in the hope that they would not be raped outside of marriage. Sudan conflict RSF is an independent military group engaged in conflict with SAF since April 2023. The conflict broke out as a result of rivalry between two military chiefs who together ousted a civilian transitional government in 2021: General Abdelfattah al-Burhan who leads SAF and Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the RSF leader. Al-Burhan and Dagalo led the coup against the civilian government of Abdalla Hamdok in October 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

Shocking cases of rape in Sudan: Children as young as nine were raped, says rights group report

President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday that Turkey might enter Israel as it had done in the past in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh. A fierce critic of operations in Gaza, Turkey's President Erdogan has issued open threat to enter Israel. Erdogan cited earlier instance of intervention in Karabakh and Libya to make a case that Turkey won't hesitate doing the same if the situation demands.

Gaza war: Erdogan issues intervention threat, says 'might enter Israel to help Palestinians'

The United States is less than 100 days away from voting for a new President and to mark the occasion both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris came with renewed attacks at weekend campaign events around the country. Kamala Harris called Donald Trump "just plain weird," while Trump labeled Harris "low IQ" and "radical". Watch to know more.

US Elections 2024: Kamala Harris' campaign raises $200 million in a week

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