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<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin thanked North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for his support and invited him to visit Moscow during a meeting that the two leaders held on Wednesday (Jun 19) following a grand welcome ceremony at the Kim II Sung Square in Pyongyang, reported the Russian news agencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his visit, Putin signed a&nbsp;new treaty with North Korea which would provide&nbsp;"mutual assistance" in case&nbsp;either country faces aggression.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin receives grand welcome</strong></h2>

<p>Putin arrived in the North Korean capital on Wednesday morning for his two-day visit to the isolated nation amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine and the rise in tensions on the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian president was greeted by the North Korean leader upon his arrival. The two leaders were seen shaking hands, embracing and talking before leaving in Putin’s Russia-made Aurus limousine for the Kumsusan State Guest House.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-in-pyongyang-what-it-means-for-the-west-733046/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In contrast to the relatively subdued welcome at the airport, Putin was greeted by cheering crowds and lavish ceremonies at the square by the Taedong River running through the capital, reported Reuters citing a broadcast by Russian media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two leaders then left for the Kumsusan Palace for summit talks, reported the Russian media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the North Korean media, the two leaders shared “pent-up inmost thoughts” on the ride to the state guest house.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian president invites Kim to visit</strong></h2>

<p>“We highly appreciate your consistent and unwavering support for Russian policy, including in the Ukrainian direction,” Russian state news agency RIA quoted Putin as saying at the start of the talks with Kim.</p>

<p>This comes after Putin&nbsp;thanked North Korea for supporting what Moscow calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine despite “US&nbsp;pressure, blackmail and military threats” in a letter, ahead of his visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am very happy about our new meeting, I hope that the next one will take place in Russia, in Moscow,” said the Russian president during the meeting with the North Korean leader, as per news agencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ties with Russia entering new era: Kim</strong></h2>

<p>The North Korean leader, during the meeting, reportedly said that the relations between Pyongyang and Moscow are entering a new era.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Relations between our countries are entering a new era of blossoming, which cannot be compared even with the period of Korean-Soviet relations of the last century,” said Kim as per Russian news agencies.</p>

<p>The North Korean leader also believed that the Russian president’s visit would further “strengthen” their countries’ friendship.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia and North Korea sign treaty</strong></h2>

<p>Russia and North Korea, during Putin's historic visit also signed a new&nbsp;agreement upgrading their countries' ties to a "comprehensive strategic partnership".</p>

<p>"The comprehensive partnership treaty signed today provides, among other things, for mutual assistance in case of aggression against one of the parties to this treaty," said the Russian president.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-hails-north-koreas-support-for-ukraine-war-vows-trade-security-ahead-of-visit-to-pyongyang-732803">Putin lands in Pyongyang, commences his first visit to North Korea in 24 years</a></strong></p>

<p>He also hailed the agreement&nbsp;as a&nbsp;"breakthrough" that would take ties between Moscow and Pyongyang to a "new level".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin also said Russia "does not rule out military-technical cooperation with the DPRK in connection with the treaty that was signed today,"&nbsp;referring to North Korea by its official name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kim called Putin&nbsp;the "dearest friend of the Korean people" and said that his country&nbsp;"expresses full support and solidarity to the Russian government" over the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin’s visit to Pyongyang</strong></h2>

<p>There are several events on the agenda for Wednesday, including one-on-one discussions between the two leaders, a gala concert, state reception, honour guards, document signings and a statement to the media,&nbsp;Putin’s foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, while Moscow and Pyongyang have been allies since North Korea’s founding after World War II, with Putin being isolated from the international stage due to the Ukraine war, the two nations have become even closer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin thanked North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for his support and invited him to visit Moscow during a meeting that the two leaders held on Wednesday (Jun 19) following a grand welcome ceremony at the Kim II Sung Square in Pyongyang, reported the Russian news agencies.

Russian President Vladimir Putin thanked North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for his support and invited him to visit Moscow during a meeting that the two leaders held on Wednesday (Jun 19) following a grand welcome ceremony at the Kim II Sung Square in Pyongyang, reported the Russian news agencies. During his visit, Putin signed a new treaty with North Korea which would provide "mutual assistance" in case either country faces aggression. Putin receives grand welcome Putin arrived in the North Korean capital on Wednesday morning for his two-day visit to the isolated nation amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine and the rise in tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The Russian president was greeted by the North Korean leader upon his arrival. The two leaders were seen shaking hands, embracing and talking before leaving in Putin’s Russia-made Aurus limousine for the Kumsusan State Guest House. In contrast to the relatively subdued welcome at the airport, Putin was greeted by cheering crowds and lavish ceremonies at the square by the Taedong River running through the capital, reported Reuters citing a broadcast by Russian media. The two leaders then left for the Kumsusan Palace for summit talks, reported the Russian media. According to the North Korean media, the two leaders shared “pent-up inmost thoughts” on the ride to the state guest house. Russian president invites Kim to visit “We highly appreciate your consistent and unwavering support for Russian policy, including in the Ukrainian direction,” Russian state news agency RIA quoted Putin as saying at the start of the talks with Kim. This comes after Putin thanked North Korea for supporting what Moscow calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine despite “US pressure, blackmail and military threats” in a letter, ahead of his visit. “I am very happy about our new meeting, I hope that the next one will take place in Russia, in Moscow,” said the Russian president during the meeting with the North Korean leader, as per news agencies. Ties with Russia entering new era: Kim The North Korean leader, during the meeting, reportedly said that the relations between Pyongyang and Moscow are entering a new era. “Relations between our countries are entering a new era of blossoming, which cannot be compared even with the period of Korean-Soviet relations of the last century,” said Kim as per Russian news agencies. The North Korean leader also believed that the Russian president’s visit would further “strengthen” their countries’ friendship. Russia and North Korea sign treaty Russia and North Korea, during Putin's historic visit also signed a new agreement upgrading their countries' ties to a "comprehensive strategic partnership". "The comprehensive partnership treaty signed today provides, among other things, for mutual assistance in case of aggression against one of the parties to this treaty," said the Russian president. Also Read | Putin lands in Pyongyang, commences his first visit to North Korea in 24 years He also hailed the agreement as a "breakthrough" that would take ties between Moscow and Pyongyang to a "new level". Putin also said Russia "does not rule out military-technical cooperation with the DPRK in connection with the treaty that was signed today," referring to North Korea by its official name. Meanwhile, Kim called Putin the "dearest friend of the Korean people" and said that his country "expresses full support and solidarity to the Russian government" over the Ukraine war. Putin’s visit to Pyongyang There are several events on the agenda for Wednesday, including one-on-one discussions between the two leaders, a gala concert, state reception, honour guards, document signings and a statement to the media, Putin’s foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov reportedly said. Notably, while Moscow and Pyongyang have been allies since North Korea’s founding after World War II, with Putin being isolated from the international stage due to the Ukraine war, the two nations have become even closer. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin signs new strategic treaty with N Korea, invites Kim to visit Moscow

<p>In yet another show of support for anti-India separatism, Canada's parliament on Tuesday (June 18) held a moment of silence to mark the first anniversary of&nbsp;Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's death. The move is similar to one&nbsp;previously held by India's western neighbour Pakistan, who&nbsp;used the platform of its National Assembly in Islamabad to valourise terrorist Burhan Wani.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nijjar was designated&nbsp;a terrorist by New Delhi for fostering separatism in India's Punjab state and related acts of terrorism. He was the chief of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) and&nbsp;was killed in a targeted shooting in Canada's Surrey, outside a British Columbia&nbsp;Gurudwara&nbsp;on June 18 last year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/khalistani-terrorist-hardeep-nijjar-shot-dead-in-canadas-surrey-605893">Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Nijjar shot dead in Canada's Surrey</a></strong></p>

<p>Four Indian nationals,&nbsp;Karan Brar, Amandeep Singh, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh, are accused of killing Nijjar.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Amidst strained ties with India, Canadian Parliament observes a moment of silence for Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar<br />
.<br />
.<br />
.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HardeepSinghNijjar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HardeepSinghNijjar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Canada?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Canada</a> <a href="https://t.co/FUaXIWbtKh">pic.twitter.com/FUaXIWbtKh</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1803257820348846579?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In response to Canada's so-called 'moment of silence', the Indian Consulate General in Vancouver announced a memorial service in memory of 329 people killed in the 1985 Khalistani bombing of an Air India Kanishka aircraft.</p>

<p>The memorial service is scheduled to be held later this week on Sunday (June 23).</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/motivated-and-absurd-india-slams-canadas-accusations-over-terrorist-hardeep-singh-nijjars-killing-637339">'Motivated and absurd': India slams Canada's accusations over terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing</a></strong></p>

<p>Taking to X, the Indian Consulate General said, "India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat. 23 June 2024 marks the 39th anniversary of the cowardly terrorist bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), in which 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, lost their lives in one of the most heinous terror-related air disasters in the history of civil aviation."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Canada: Three arrested in Nijjar's killing, yet to prove Indian gov't link with suspects</strong></p>

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<p>Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who moved to Canada in 1997 under a fake passport, was&nbsp;described as a Canadian national in the country's parliament by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Indian agencies, Nijjar was actively recruiting and training people for Khalistan Tiger Force, a banned terrorist organisation. India had sought his extradition as he was wanted in a number of cases for disseminating terrorism in India's Punjab state. He was also wanted in the 2017 Ludhiana blast which claimed the lives of six people and left 42 injured.</p>


In yet another show of support for anti-India separatism, Canada's parliament on Tuesday (June 18) held a moment of silence to mark the first anniversary of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's death.

In yet another show of support for anti-India separatism, Canada's parliament on Tuesday (June 18) held a moment of silence to mark the first anniversary of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's death. The move is similar to one previously held by India's western neighbour Pakistan, who used the platform of its National Assembly in Islamabad to valourise terrorist Burhan Wani. Nijjar was designated a terrorist by New Delhi for fostering separatism in India's Punjab state and related acts of terrorism. He was the chief of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) and was killed in a targeted shooting in Canada's Surrey, outside a British Columbia Gurudwara on June 18 last year. Also read | Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Nijjar shot dead in Canada's Surrey Four Indian nationals, Karan Brar, Amandeep Singh, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh, are accused of killing Nijjar. Amidst strained ties with India, Canadian Parliament observes a moment of silence for Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar . . .#HardeepSinghNijjar #Canada pic.twitter.com/FUaXIWbtKh — WION (@WIONews) June 19, 2024 × In response to Canada's so-called 'moment of silence', the Indian Consulate General in Vancouver announced a memorial service in memory of 329 people killed in the 1985 Khalistani bombing of an Air India Kanishka aircraft. The memorial service is scheduled to be held later this week on Sunday (June 23). Also read | 'Motivated and absurd': India slams Canada's accusations over terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing Taking to X, the Indian Consulate General said, "India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat. 23 June 2024 marks the 39th anniversary of the cowardly terrorist bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), in which 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, lost their lives in one of the most heinous terror-related air disasters in the history of civil aviation." Also watch | Canada: Three arrested in Nijjar's killing, yet to prove Indian gov't link with suspects × Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who moved to Canada in 1997 under a fake passport, was described as a Canadian national in the country's parliament by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. According to Indian agencies, Nijjar was actively recruiting and training people for Khalistan Tiger Force, a banned terrorist organisation. India had sought his extradition as he was wanted in a number of cases for disseminating terrorism in India's Punjab state. He was also wanted in the 2017 Ludhiana blast which claimed the lives of six people and left 42 injured.

Canada pulls off a Pakistan act, holds 'moment of silence' for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament

UK PM Sunak said his predecessor Boris Johnson's endorsement for the conservatives will make a difference to the party's prospects in the upcoming general elections this.

UK PM Sunak: Boris Johnson's endorsement for Tories will make the difference

<p>The Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi militants are believed to have sunk a second ship in the Red Sea named the Tutor after allegedly killing one sailor on board, said media reports citing officials, on Wednesday (Jun 19).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tutor&nbsp;'believed to have sunk'</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned-and-operated, Tutor coal carrier was attacked and taking on water.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the (Tutor’s) last reported location,” said the UKMTO in a security update. It added, “The vessel is believed to have sunk.”</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/greece-owned-coal-carrier-attacked-by-yemeni-houthi-militants-731997/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The attack and sinking of the bulk carrier marks what appears to be a new escalation by the Houthis who have been targeting shipping through the vital maritime corridor ever&nbsp;since the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas began in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Deadly attack by militant group</strong></h2>

<p>The Tutor came under attack on June 12. The vessel, as per reports, was struck by missiles and an explosive-laden remote-controlled boat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the crew members, who is believed to have been in the ship’s engine room at the time of the attack, remains missing, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House national security spokesman, John Kirby, on Monday (Jun 17) said that the attack killed “a crew member who hailed from the Philippines.” Manila has yet to confirm or acknowledge the reported death.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Houthis continue to attack in Red Sea</strong></h2>

<p>If confirmed,&nbsp;Tutor would be the second ship sunk by the Houthis,&nbsp;months&nbsp;after their attacks led to the sinking of the UK-owned Rubymar. The ship went down on March 2, about two weeks after being targeted by missiles.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crew-abandons-cargo-ship-hit-in-missile-attack-by-houthi-rebels-us-military-732137">Crew abandons cargo ship hit in missile attack by Houthi rebels: US military</a></strong></p>

<p>Last week, the crew on board M/V Verbena, a Palauan-flagged ship, was forced to abandon the vessel after they were unable to contain a fire sparked due to a missile attack by the Houthis in the Gulf of Aden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ship, which was reportedly loaded with wood construction material, had also sustained damage and is now drifting and vulnerable to sinking or further assaults.</p>

<p>Since the beginning of their campaign, which the Houthis claim is in support of the Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing war, the militant group has seized vessels and killed three sailors in separate attacks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi militants are believed to have sunk a second ship in the Red Sea named the Tutor after allegedly killing one sailor on board, said media reports citing officials, on Wednesday (Jun 19).

The Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi militants are believed to have sunk a second ship in the Red Sea named the Tutor after allegedly killing one sailor on board, said media reports citing officials, on Wednesday (Jun 19). Tutor 'believed to have sunk' Last week, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned-and-operated, Tutor coal carrier was attacked and taking on water. “Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the (Tutor’s) last reported location,” said the UKMTO in a security update. It added, “The vessel is believed to have sunk.” The attack and sinking of the bulk carrier marks what appears to be a new escalation by the Houthis who have been targeting shipping through the vital maritime corridor ever since the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas began in Gaza. Deadly attack by militant group The Tutor came under attack on June 12. The vessel, as per reports, was struck by missiles and an explosive-laden remote-controlled boat. One of the crew members, who is believed to have been in the ship’s engine room at the time of the attack, remains missing, reported Reuters. White House national security spokesman, John Kirby, on Monday (Jun 17) said that the attack killed “a crew member who hailed from the Philippines.” Manila has yet to confirm or acknowledge the reported death. Houthis continue to attack in Red Sea If confirmed, Tutor would be the second ship sunk by the Houthis, months after their attacks led to the sinking of the UK-owned Rubymar. The ship went down on March 2, about two weeks after being targeted by missiles. Also Read | Crew abandons cargo ship hit in missile attack by Houthi rebels: US military Last week, the crew on board M/V Verbena, a Palauan-flagged ship, was forced to abandon the vessel after they were unable to contain a fire sparked due to a missile attack by the Houthis in the Gulf of Aden. The ship, which was reportedly loaded with wood construction material, had also sustained damage and is now drifting and vulnerable to sinking or further assaults. Since the beginning of their campaign, which the Houthis claim is in support of the Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing war, the militant group has seized vessels and killed three sailors in separate attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Yemen’s Houthi rebels believed to have sunk second ship in Red Sea after deadly attack

Israel-Hamas war: Blinken insists US sending weapons to Israel 'normally'

Indian PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated a new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar's Rajgir. The new campus is near the ancient ruins of Nalanda University. Watch this video for all details.

India: PM Modi inaugurates Nalanda University campus in Bihar

Sir Ian McKellen has been rushed to hospital after falling off the stage. Watch to know more.

Ian McKellen lands in hospital after falling off stage during performance

<p>Britain's approval of arms export licences to Israel dropped sharply after the start of the war in Gaza, with the value of permits granted for the sale of military equipment to its ally falling by more than 95% to a 13-year low.</p>

<p>The figures, which have not previously been reported, are based on information provided by government officials to Reuters and data from the Department for Business and Trade's Export Control unit.</p>

<p>The United States and Germany increased arms sales to Israel after the start of the war with Hamas.</p>

<p>However, the value of British-approved licences between Oct. 7 and Dec. 31 last year dropped to 859,381 pounds ($1.09 million), government officials told Reuters. That is the lowest figure for the period between Oct. 7 and Dec. 31 since 2010.</p>

<p>This compares with the government approving 20 million pounds of arms sales to Israel for the same period in 2022, including small arms ammunition and components for combat aircraft, according to government data.</p>

<p>In the same period in 2017, the government approved 185 million pounds in arms sales to Israel, including components for tanks and surface-to-air missiles, the data shows, the highest figure for the period in publicly available data going back to 2008.</p>

<p>Unlike the US, Britain's government does not give arms directly to Israel but rather issues licences for companies to sell weapons, with input from lawyers on whether they comply with international law.</p>

<p>Many of the licences approved in the period after the start of the war in Gaza were for items listed for "commercial use" or non-lethal items such as body armour, military helmets or all-wheel drive vehicles with ballistic protection.</p>

<p>Reuters could not establish if the fall in the value of approved licences for Israel was because of a decision by Britain to restrict the sale of certain items, or because there was a drop in demand from Israel.</p>

<p>The Department for Business and Trade, which is responsible for approving the export licences, and the Foreign Office declined to comment. Israel's embassy in London did not respond to a request for comment.</p>

<h2><strong>Restrictions</strong></h2>

<p>Israel's conflict in Gaza was triggered when Hamas fighters charged into Israel on Oct. 7 and killed some 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies. Israel's subsequent bombardment and invasion of Gaza has killed more than 37,000 Palestinians, according to health authorities in the Hamas-run enclave.</p>

<p>Members of Britain's parliament and human rights groups have criticised the government for the lack of public information about arms sales to Israel since the start of the conflict.</p>

<p>Some countries such as Italy, Canada and the Netherlands have imposed restrictions on arms exports to Israel because of concerns about how the weapons could be used.</p>

<p>While Germany approved arms exports to Israel worth 326 million euros last year, 10 times more than in 2022, the volume of approvals fell to around 10 million euros in the first quarter of this year.</p>

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<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been one of Europe's strongest advocates of Israel's right to respond with overwhelming force against Hamas.</p>

<p>He has resisted calls to halt arms transfers to Israel but has said the government adheres to a "very careful licensing regime".</p>

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<p>Britain is expected to provide information about arms sales to Israel in the first half of this year in the coming months.</p>

<p>The government has in the past blocked arms sales to Israel, such as in 2009 when it revoked some licences, and in 1982 when there was a formal restriction after the invasion of Lebanon.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Britain's approval of arms export licences to Israel dropped sharply after the start of the war in Gaza, with the value of permits granted for the sale of military equipment to its ally falling by more than 95% to a 13-year low.

Britain's approval of arms export licences to Israel dropped sharply after the start of the war in Gaza, with the value of permits granted for the sale of military equipment to its ally falling by more than 95% to a 13-year low. The figures, which have not previously been reported, are based on information provided by government officials to Reuters and data from the Department for Business and Trade's Export Control unit. The United States and Germany increased arms sales to Israel after the start of the war with Hamas. However, the value of British-approved licences between Oct. 7 and Dec. 31 last year dropped to 859,381 pounds ($1.09 million), government officials told Reuters. That is the lowest figure for the period between Oct. 7 and Dec. 31 since 2010. This compares with the government approving 20 million pounds of arms sales to Israel for the same period in 2022, including small arms ammunition and components for combat aircraft, according to government data. In the same period in 2017, the government approved 185 million pounds in arms sales to Israel, including components for tanks and surface-to-air missiles, the data shows, the highest figure for the period in publicly available data going back to 2008. Unlike the US, Britain's government does not give arms directly to Israel but rather issues licences for companies to sell weapons, with input from lawyers on whether they comply with international law. Many of the licences approved in the period after the start of the war in Gaza were for items listed for "commercial use" or non-lethal items such as body armour, military helmets or all-wheel drive vehicles with ballistic protection. Reuters could not establish if the fall in the value of approved licences for Israel was because of a decision by Britain to restrict the sale of certain items, or because there was a drop in demand from Israel. The Department for Business and Trade, which is responsible for approving the export licences, and the Foreign Office declined to comment. Israel's embassy in London did not respond to a request for comment. Restrictions Israel's conflict in Gaza was triggered when Hamas fighters charged into Israel on Oct. 7 and killed some 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies. Israel's subsequent bombardment and invasion of Gaza has killed more than 37,000 Palestinians, according to health authorities in the Hamas-run enclave. Members of Britain's parliament and human rights groups have criticised the government for the lack of public information about arms sales to Israel since the start of the conflict. Some countries such as Italy, Canada and the Netherlands have imposed restrictions on arms exports to Israel because of concerns about how the weapons could be used. While Germany approved arms exports to Israel worth 326 million euros last year, 10 times more than in 2022, the volume of approvals fell to around 10 million euros in the first quarter of this year. Also read: Israel`s intel failed despite prior knowledge of Hamas` plan weeks before October 7 attack: Report British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been one of Europe's strongest advocates of Israel's right to respond with overwhelming force against Hamas. He has resisted calls to halt arms transfers to Israel but has said the government adheres to a "very careful licensing regime". Also read: In a threatening message to Israel, Hezbollah releases surveillance footage of Haifa Britain is expected to provide information about arms sales to Israel in the first half of this year in the coming months. The government has in the past blocked arms sales to Israel, such as in 2009 when it revoked some licences, and in 1982 when there was a formal restriction after the invasion of Lebanon. (With inputs from agencies)

UK official data shows arms sale to Israel plunged following start of Gaza war

In 2019, TikTok agreed to pay $5.7 million to settle FTC allegations that it illegally collected personal info from children, which the agency said was the largest civil penalty ever obtained in a children's privacy case.

US: Federal Trade Commission probes TikTok over child privacy concerns

<p><strong>New Mexico wildfires:</strong>&nbsp;At least 1,400 structures were destroyed and one person was killed in New Mexico wildfires that broke out Monday morning (Jun 17), as officials in the US state said Tuesday that more than 7,000 people were evacuated from an entire town. The South Fork fire initially engulfed around 360 acres of the Mescalero Apache Reservation Monday and later expanded to 15,276 acres by Tuesday evening. On the other hand, the Salt Fire has burned down an estimated 5,557 acres. According to officials, both fires were contained 0 per cent by Tuesday and the cause of the fires was being ascertained.</p>

<h2><strong>State of emergency</strong></h2>

<p>Ruidoso village, just west of the Apache reservation, was evacuated Monday as the expanding wildfire threatened more than 7,700 villagers. Within hours, people in the nearby community of Ruidoso Downs were also asked to leave the area.</p>

<p>Ruidoso Downs has a population of over 2,400 and at least two people there are being treated for injuries, as per officials.</p>

<p>Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, while declaring a state of emergency for Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation, said, "We are deploying every available resource to control these wildfires."</p>

<p>The governor has also dispatched the National Guard to assist the fire-containing efforts.</p>

<h2><strong>'Extreme fire behaviour'</strong></h2>

<p>According to New Mexico State Forester Laura McCarthy, they have observed "extreme fire behaviour" in the region, with the fire picking up speed again on Tuesday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;California wildfire burns 12,000 acres, forces evacuations</strong></p>

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<p>"This fire is dangerous and fast-moving," the official said at a news conference. "The winds are strong. They're not quite at the red flag level, but they are close."</p>

<h2><strong>Change in weather expected</strong></h2>

<p>McCarthy said the weather is expected to change, which may affect the fires in a significant way, both for good and bad. Winds are expected to shift from the west starting Tuesday due to a "back-door cold front" arriving possibly on Wednesday or Thursday. This change could also bring moisture to the area where the fires are burning.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwigi__O--aGAxU53TQHHR-sDBwQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-wildfires-1200-evacuated-from-la-county-as-post-fire-burned-down-4400-acres-732254" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/california-wildfires-1200-evacuated-from-la-county-as-post-fire-burned-down-4400-acres-732254&amp;ved=2ahUKEwigi__O--aGAxU53TQHHR-sDBwQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">California wildfires: 1200 evacuated from LA county as 'Post Fire' burns down 4400 acres</a></strong></p>

<p>"It's both bad news and good news, from a weather perspective," McCarthy said. "It also means that this fire is going to be dynamic, at least until we see what rainfall amounts materialise."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


New Mexico wildfires: At least 1,400 structures were destroyed and one person was killed in New Mexico wildfires that broke out Monday morning (Jun 17), as officials in the US state said Tuesday that more than 7,000 people were evacuated from an entire town.

New Mexico wildfires: At least 1,400 structures were destroyed and one person was killed in New Mexico wildfires that broke out Monday morning (Jun 17), as officials in the US state said Tuesday that more than 7,000 people were evacuated from an entire town. The South Fork fire initially engulfed around 360 acres of the Mescalero Apache Reservation Monday and later expanded to 15,276 acres by Tuesday evening. On the other hand, the Salt Fire has burned down an estimated 5,557 acres. According to officials, both fires were contained 0 per cent by Tuesday and the cause of the fires was being ascertained. State of emergency Ruidoso village, just west of the Apache reservation, was evacuated Monday as the expanding wildfire threatened more than 7,700 villagers. Within hours, people in the nearby community of Ruidoso Downs were also asked to leave the area. Ruidoso Downs has a population of over 2,400 and at least two people there are being treated for injuries, as per officials. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, while declaring a state of emergency for Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation, said, "We are deploying every available resource to control these wildfires." The governor has also dispatched the National Guard to assist the fire-containing efforts. 'Extreme fire behaviour' According to New Mexico State Forester Laura McCarthy, they have observed "extreme fire behaviour" in the region, with the fire picking up speed again on Tuesday. Watch: California wildfire burns 12,000 acres, forces evacuations × "This fire is dangerous and fast-moving," the official said at a news conference. "The winds are strong. They're not quite at the red flag level, but they are close." Change in weather expected McCarthy said the weather is expected to change, which may affect the fires in a significant way, both for good and bad. Winds are expected to shift from the west starting Tuesday due to a "back-door cold front" arriving possibly on Wednesday or Thursday. This change could also bring moisture to the area where the fires are burning. Also read: California wildfires: 1200 evacuated from LA county as 'Post Fire' burns down 4400 acres "It's both bad news and good news, from a weather perspective," McCarthy said. "It also means that this fire is going to be dynamic, at least until we see what rainfall amounts materialise." (With inputs from agencies)

New Mexico wildfires: 1 dead, 1,400 structures damaged; emergency declared in Lincoln county

India: PM Modi inaugurates new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar

Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has arrived at Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra airport to meet Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama in Dharamshala. Pelosi is part of a six-member high-level US delegation that has come to India to meet the Dalai Lama. Watch in for more details!

US delegation- Dalai Lama meet: China urges Biden not to sign Tibet Bill

Russian president Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un agreed to bolster ties between the two countries. And how will this bolstered partnership between the two nuclear-armed states impact the existing world order? Dr Robert Edwin Kelly, American political analyst on inter-Korean affairs joins us to discuss.

Putin's rare visit to North Korea

<p>Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was reportedly left out of a small group of European Union leaders discussing top jobs for the three EU bodies, namely the European Union parliament, European Council and the European Commission.</p>

<p>According to a report in the Financial Times, during a private dinner late on Monday (June 17) evening, the European Union's 27 leaders discussed a potential deal to nominate Ursula von der Leyen for a second term as European Commission president, along with three other key appointments reflecting the result of European parliamentary elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The discussions were soured after it emerged that a previous closed-door meeting between six national leaders from the EU's three largest political parties: von der Leyen's European People's Party (EPP), the Socialists &amp; Democrats and liberal Renew, was held.&nbsp;These pre-dinner discussions excluded Italy PM Giorgia Meloni's&nbsp;European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, which finished fourth in the European Union elections earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-elections-from-trade-to-climate-key-takeaways-from-the-election-results-730730">EU Elections: From trade to climate, key takeaways from the election results</a></strong></p>

<p>Meloni then reportedly raged at French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the prime ministers of the Netherlands, Greece and Spain for making her and others wait while they made a deal to be presented to the rest of the EU members.</p>

<p>Meloni then told reporters that "we will not accept a pre-packaged agreement".</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Melodi | Indian PM Modi's selfie with Italian PM Meloni goes viral</strong></p>

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<p>The 'Renew' grouping, led by Macron's party, has claimed the post of EU top diplomat for Estonia Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. The Renew secured third place with 80 seats in the EU parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It could be contested if France's Marine Le Pen's Identity and Democracy (ID) group allies with Meloni's ECR as well as 11 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from the party of Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban. This could make them the third-largest force in the European parliament.</p>

<p>Ahead of the EU elections, Ursula von der Leyen had courted Giorgia Meloni as well as her ECR group as potential allies to secure a parliamentary majority required to confirm the candidate appointed by the leaders.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was reportedly left out of a small group of European Union leaders discussing top jobs for the three EU bodies, namely the European Union parliament, European Council and the European Commission.

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was reportedly left out of a small group of European Union leaders discussing top jobs for the three EU bodies, namely the European Union parliament, European Council and the European Commission. According to a report in the Financial Times, during a private dinner late on Monday (June 17) evening, the European Union's 27 leaders discussed a potential deal to nominate Ursula von der Leyen for a second term as European Commission president, along with three other key appointments reflecting the result of European parliamentary elections. The discussions were soured after it emerged that a previous closed-door meeting between six national leaders from the EU's three largest political parties: von der Leyen's European People's Party (EPP), the Socialists & Democrats and liberal Renew, was held. These pre-dinner discussions excluded Italy PM Giorgia Meloni's European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, which finished fourth in the European Union elections earlier this month. Also read | EU Elections: From trade to climate, key takeaways from the election results Meloni then reportedly raged at French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the prime ministers of the Netherlands, Greece and Spain for making her and others wait while they made a deal to be presented to the rest of the EU members. Meloni then told reporters that "we will not accept a pre-packaged agreement". Also watch | Melodi | Indian PM Modi's selfie with Italian PM Meloni goes viral × The 'Renew' grouping, led by Macron's party, has claimed the post of EU top diplomat for Estonia Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. The Renew secured third place with 80 seats in the EU parliament. It could be contested if France's Marine Le Pen's Identity and Democracy (ID) group allies with Meloni's ECR as well as 11 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from the party of Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban. This could make them the third-largest force in the European parliament. Ahead of the EU elections, Ursula von der Leyen had courted Giorgia Meloni as well as her ECR group as potential allies to secure a parliamentary majority required to confirm the candidate appointed by the leaders. (With inputs from agencies)

Giorgia Meloni slams EU centrists for excluding her from top job talks; rejects 'pre-packaged' deal

<p>Climate change-induced record rainfall has battered wheat crops in the United Kingdom as well as neighbouring France, the largest producer of the essential grain item. With wheat supply from Ukraine — another big wheat producer in the region — already short due to the ongoing Russian offensive now in its 28th month, the prices are expected to rise significantly this year.</p>

<p>Heavy rainfall since last autumn prevented farmers from sowing wheat and led to massive damage to yield in the UK and France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After the UK’s record-breaking wet winter hit crops here, farmers in France are now contending with the impacts of ceaseless rains this spring," Tom Lancaster, land, food and farming analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) was quoted as saying by the Financial Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/russia-tightens-grip-on-grain-exports-as-global-wheat-prices-surge-725852">Russia tightens grip on grain exports as global wheat prices surge</a></strong></p>

<p>"France is Europe’s biggest grower of wheat, and with harvests in the UK anticipated to be down by up to a fifth due to heavy rains here that were made worse by climate change, there is a real risk that a poor harvest in France could drive up prices."</p>

<p>According to a recent study by the World Weather Attribution, rainfall throughout last autumn and winter in the UK and Ireland was around 20 per cent more as a result of climate change due to human activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers also estimated that the frequency of such heavy rainfall equipped to damage crop yields, is around 10 times more likely due to climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia: Wheat production increases, leads global wheat exports</strong></p>

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<p>According to the Financial Times, of all the commodities that agricultural hedge fund Farrer Capital looks at, "wheat is the one that is the tightest in terms of supply relative to demand," as per its CEO and founder Adam Davis.</p>

<p>"We have seen drought in South Africa roll into drought in Russia, to frost in Russia, to Ukraine saying some areas are the driest they’ve been in 30 years, to drought in parts of Australia," he said. "[Climate events] are happening everywhere, seemingly at the same time or one after the other."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Climate change-induced record rainfall has battered wheat crops in the United Kingdom as well as neighbouring France, the largest producer of the essential grain item.

Climate change-induced record rainfall has battered wheat crops in the United Kingdom as well as neighbouring France, the largest producer of the essential grain item. With wheat supply from Ukraine — another big wheat producer in the region — already short due to the ongoing Russian offensive now in its 28th month, the prices are expected to rise significantly this year. Heavy rainfall since last autumn prevented farmers from sowing wheat and led to massive damage to yield in the UK and France. "After the UK’s record-breaking wet winter hit crops here, farmers in France are now contending with the impacts of ceaseless rains this spring," Tom Lancaster, land, food and farming analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) was quoted as saying by the Financial Times. Also read | Russia tightens grip on grain exports as global wheat prices surge "France is Europe’s biggest grower of wheat, and with harvests in the UK anticipated to be down by up to a fifth due to heavy rains here that were made worse by climate change, there is a real risk that a poor harvest in France could drive up prices." According to a recent study by the World Weather Attribution, rainfall throughout last autumn and winter in the UK and Ireland was around 20 per cent more as a result of climate change due to human activities. The researchers also estimated that the frequency of such heavy rainfall equipped to damage crop yields, is around 10 times more likely due to climate change. Also watch | Russia: Wheat production increases, leads global wheat exports × According to the Financial Times, of all the commodities that agricultural hedge fund Farrer Capital looks at, "wheat is the one that is the tightest in terms of supply relative to demand," as per its CEO and founder Adam Davis. "We have seen drought in South Africa roll into drought in Russia, to frost in Russia, to Ukraine saying some areas are the driest they’ve been in 30 years, to drought in parts of Australia," he said. "[Climate events] are happening everywhere, seemingly at the same time or one after the other." (With inputs from agencies)

No wheat to eat in Europe? Heavy rains kill grain yield, may lead to rise in prices

<p>At least 323 Egyptian pilgrims died during the hajj pilgrimage in western Saudi Arabia, most of them succumbing to heat-related illnesses, two Arab diplomats coordinating their countries' responses told AFP on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All of them died because of heat" except for one who sustained fatal injuries during a minor crowd crush, one of the diplomats said, adding that the total figure came from the hospital morgue in the Al-Muaisem neighbourhood of Mecca.</p>

<p>At least 60 Jordanians also died, the diplomats said, up from an official tally of 41 given earlier on Tuesday by Amman.</p>

<p>The new deaths bring the total reported so far by various countries to 577, according to an AFP tally.</p>

<p>The diplomats said the total at the morgue in Al-Muaisem, one of the biggest in Mecca, was 550.</p>

<p>The hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and all Muslims with the means must complete it at least once.</p>

<p>The pilgrimage is increasingly affected by climate change, according to a Saudi study published last month that said temperatures in the area where rituals are performed were rising 0.4 degrees Celsius (0.72 degrees Fahrenheit) each decade.</p>

<p>Around 1.8 million pilgrims took part in the hajj this year, 1.6 million of them from abroad, according to Saudi authorities.</p>

<p>Each year tens of thousands of pilgrims attempt to perform the hajj without securing official hajj visas in order to save money, a more dangerous undertaking because these off-the-books pilgrims cannot access air-conditioned facilities provided by Saudi authorities along the hajj route.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the diplomats who spoke to AFP on Tuesday said that the Egyptian death toll was "absolutely" boosted by a large number of unregistered Egyptian pilgrims.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Saudi officials said they had cleared hundreds of thousands of unregistered pilgrims from Mecca ahead of the hajj.</p>

<p>Other countries to report deaths during the hajj this year include Indonesia, Iran&nbsp;and&nbsp;Senegal.</p>


At least 323 Egyptian pilgrims died during the hajj pilgrimage in western Saudi Arabia, most of them succumbing to heat-related illnesses, two Arab diplomats coordinating their countries' responses told AFP on Tuesday.

At least 323 Egyptian pilgrims died during the hajj pilgrimage in western Saudi Arabia, most of them succumbing to heat-related illnesses, two Arab diplomats coordinating their countries' responses told AFP on Tuesday. "All of them died because of heat" except for one who sustained fatal injuries during a minor crowd crush, one of the diplomats said, adding that the total figure came from the hospital morgue in the Al-Muaisem neighbourhood of Mecca. At least 60 Jordanians also died, the diplomats said, up from an official tally of 41 given earlier on Tuesday by Amman. The new deaths bring the total reported so far by various countries to 577, according to an AFP tally. The diplomats said the total at the morgue in Al-Muaisem, one of the biggest in Mecca, was 550. The hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and all Muslims with the means must complete it at least once. The pilgrimage is increasingly affected by climate change, according to a Saudi study published last month that said temperatures in the area where rituals are performed were rising 0.4 degrees Celsius (0.72 degrees Fahrenheit) each decade. Around 1.8 million pilgrims took part in the hajj this year, 1.6 million of them from abroad, according to Saudi authorities. Each year tens of thousands of pilgrims attempt to perform the hajj without securing official hajj visas in order to save money, a more dangerous undertaking because these off-the-books pilgrims cannot access air-conditioned facilities provided by Saudi authorities along the hajj route. One of the diplomats who spoke to AFP on Tuesday said that the Egyptian death toll was "absolutely" boosted by a large number of unregistered Egyptian pilgrims. Earlier this month, Saudi officials said they had cleared hundreds of thousands of unregistered pilgrims from Mecca ahead of the hajj. Other countries to report deaths during the hajj this year include Indonesia, Iran and Senegal.

More than 300 Egyptian pilgrims die in hajj, most from heat: Diplomats

<p>A new document claimed that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and intelligence services had detailed knowledge of the unprecedented attack by the Hamas militants on October 7 last year. Israeli military apparently also knew about Hamas' plan to kidnap 250 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kan public broadcaster claimed on Monday (Jun 17) that a document compiled within the IDF's Gaza Division warned that Hamas was training for a large-scale invasion. The document was reportedly compiled less than three weeks before the October 7 attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The document, titled "Detailed raid training from end to end," said that the Palestinian militants were aiming to take hundreds of hostages. "The expected number of hostages: 200-250 people", Kan said citing unnamed security sources.</p>

<p>The crucial report was circulated on September 19, but it was apparently ignored despite being shared with at least some senior intelligence officials in the military's Gaza Division and Southern Command.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-threatening-message-to-israel-hezbollah-releases-surveillance-footage-of-haifa-732956">In a threatening message to Israel, Hezbollah releases surveillance footage of Haifa</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Hamas launched the attack on October 7 which resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli official figures. The militants also took 251 people hostage, 116 of whom remain in Gaza including 41 the army says are dead.&nbsp;In retaliation, Israel waged war on Gaza, vowing to eliminate the Palestine-based militant group.</p>

<p>The humanitarian situation continues to worsen in the Gaza Strip. Israel's military offensive has killed at least 37,347 people, also mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The document revealed&nbsp;exercises and drills that Hamas'&nbsp;elite forces were carrying out for raids on Israeli towns and military posts. As per the document, they trained on how to hold soldiers and civilians hostage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At 11 a.m., several companies were observed gathering for prayer and lunch before the start of training. At noon, equipment and weapons are distributed to the fighters, after which a company headquarters drill takes place. At 2:00 p.m., the raid practice begins," part of the document states.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-at-least-17-palestinians-killed-in-israeli-strike-on-gaza-refugee-camp-732858">Israel-Hamas war: At least 17 Palestinians killed in Israeli strike on Gaza refugee camp</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Questions on Israel's&nbsp;intelligence</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Similar claims, linked to apparent intelligence failure, have been made in the past as well, but Israel has denied them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli politicians have rebuffed calls for a thorough investigation into intelligence failures surrounding the Hamas attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted any official probe should wait until after the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Israeli military told the news agency AFP that it was "investigating the events" of October 7, with a probe being "actively carried out" and would later be made public.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A new document claimed that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and intelligence services had detailed knowledge of the unprecedented attack by the Hamas militants on October 7 last year.

A new document claimed that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and intelligence services had detailed knowledge of the unprecedented attack by the Hamas militants on October 7 last year. Israeli military apparently also knew about Hamas' plan to kidnap 250 people. The Kan public broadcaster claimed on Monday (Jun 17) that a document compiled within the IDF's Gaza Division warned that Hamas was training for a large-scale invasion. The document was reportedly compiled less than three weeks before the October 7 attacks. The document, titled "Detailed raid training from end to end," said that the Palestinian militants were aiming to take hundreds of hostages. "The expected number of hostages: 200-250 people", Kan said citing unnamed security sources. The crucial report was circulated on September 19, but it was apparently ignored despite being shared with at least some senior intelligence officials in the military's Gaza Division and Southern Command. Also read: In a threatening message to Israel, Hezbollah releases surveillance footage of Haifa Hamas launched the attack on October 7 which resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli official figures. The militants also took 251 people hostage, 116 of whom remain in Gaza including 41 the army says are dead. In retaliation, Israel waged war on Gaza, vowing to eliminate the Palestine-based militant group. The humanitarian situation continues to worsen in the Gaza Strip. Israel's military offensive has killed at least 37,347 people, also mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The document revealed exercises and drills that Hamas' elite forces were carrying out for raids on Israeli towns and military posts. As per the document, they trained on how to hold soldiers and civilians hostage. "At 11 a.m., several companies were observed gathering for prayer and lunch before the start of training. At noon, equipment and weapons are distributed to the fighters, after which a company headquarters drill takes place. At 2:00 p.m., the raid practice begins," part of the document states. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: At least 17 Palestinians killed in Israeli strike on Gaza refugee camp Watch this report: × Questions on Israel's intelligence Similar claims, linked to apparent intelligence failure, have been made in the past as well, but Israel has denied them. Israeli politicians have rebuffed calls for a thorough investigation into intelligence failures surrounding the Hamas attack. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted any official probe should wait until after the war. However, the Israeli military told the news agency AFP that it was "investigating the events" of October 7, with a probe being "actively carried out" and would later be made public. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel's intel failed despite prior knowledge of Hamas' plan weeks before October 7 attack: Report

<p>Astronomers have traced the mysterious brightening of a distant galaxy in the Virgo constellation to the awakening of a colossal black hole, estimated to be 1 million times more massive than the sun.</p>

<p>The galaxy known by the codename SDSS1335+0728, situated 300 million light years away, showed no remarkable features for decades. This changed dramatically at the end of 2019 when scientists noticed a massive surge in its luminosity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A staff astronomer at the European Southern Observatory in Garching, Germany&nbsp;Dr Paula Sanchez-Saez said,&nbsp;"We discovered this source at the moment it started to show these variations in luminosity."</p>

<p>"It's the first time we've seen this in real time."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scorching-heatwave-set-to-sear-northeastern-us-break-records-and-spark-health-concerns-732975">Scorching heatwave set to sear northeastern US, break records and spark health concerns</a></p>

<p>The sudden brightening of the galaxy was first detected by the Zwicky Transient Facility in California in December 2019.</p>

<p>This observatory recorded an unexpected increase in the galaxy's brightness, prompting astronomers worldwide to conduct new observations and review past measurements from both ground and space-based telescopes.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/atoco-point-nasas-rover-spots-strikingly-mysterious-rock-never-seen-before-on-mars-732906">‘Atoco Point’: NASA’s rover spots strikingly mysterious rock never seen before on Mars</a></p>

<p>Their research revealed that the galaxy had recently doubled in brightness in the mid-infrared wavelengths, quadrupled in ultraviolet brightness, and increased tenfold in X-ray brightness.</p>

<p>The cause of this dramatic change remains uncertain.</p>

<p>However, in a paper published in Astronomy and Astrophysics, researchers propose that the most plausible explanation is the formation of an "active galactic nucleus."</p>

<p>This phenomenon occurs when a vast black hole at the centre&nbsp;of a galaxy begins actively consuming surrounding material, emitting a broad spectrum of light as gas around the black hole heats up and glows.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Study: Secret aliens could be here on Earth already</strong></p>

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<p>Dust particles around the black hole also absorb and re-radiate various wavelengths of light.</p>

<p>Another potential explanation is an exotic "tidal disruption event," a process where a star is torn apart after wandering too close to a black hole.</p>

<p>Typically, tidal disruption events brighten a galaxy for only a few hundred days, which makes this scenario less likely but not impossible. More data is required to rule it out completely.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Astronomers have traced the mysterious brightening of a distant galaxy in the Virgo constellation to the awakening of a colossal black hole, estimated to be 1 million times more massive than the sun.

Astronomers have traced the mysterious brightening of a distant galaxy in the Virgo constellation to the awakening of a colossal black hole, estimated to be 1 million times more massive than the sun. The galaxy known by the codename SDSS1335+0728, situated 300 million light years away, showed no remarkable features for decades. This changed dramatically at the end of 2019 when scientists noticed a massive surge in its luminosity. A staff astronomer at the European Southern Observatory in Garching, Germany Dr Paula Sanchez-Saez said, "We discovered this source at the moment it started to show these variations in luminosity." "It's the first time we've seen this in real time." Also Read | Scorching heatwave set to sear northeastern US, break records and spark health concerns The sudden brightening of the galaxy was first detected by the Zwicky Transient Facility in California in December 2019. This observatory recorded an unexpected increase in the galaxy's brightness, prompting astronomers worldwide to conduct new observations and review past measurements from both ground and space-based telescopes. Also Read | ‘Atoco Point’: NASA’s rover spots strikingly mysterious rock never seen before on Mars Their research revealed that the galaxy had recently doubled in brightness in the mid-infrared wavelengths, quadrupled in ultraviolet brightness, and increased tenfold in X-ray brightness. The cause of this dramatic change remains uncertain. However, in a paper published in Astronomy and Astrophysics, researchers propose that the most plausible explanation is the formation of an "active galactic nucleus." This phenomenon occurs when a vast black hole at the centre of a galaxy begins actively consuming surrounding material, emitting a broad spectrum of light as gas around the black hole heats up and glows. Watch | Study: Secret aliens could be here on Earth already × Dust particles around the black hole also absorb and re-radiate various wavelengths of light. Another potential explanation is an exotic "tidal disruption event," a process where a star is torn apart after wandering too close to a black hole. Typically, tidal disruption events brighten a galaxy for only a few hundred days, which makes this scenario less likely but not impossible. More data is required to rule it out completely. (With inputs from agencies)

Mysterious brightening of distant galaxy traced to awakening giant black hole

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