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A group of activists on Thursday (June 20) sprayed an orange-coloured substance on private jets parked at Stansted Airport in England.

The location of where the act was staged was verified with the help of the houses, pavement, and trees visible in the video posted by the environmental group Just Stop Oil on its official X handle.

The group in its post said that two activists 28-year-old Jennifer Kowalski and 22-year-old Cole Macdonald cut the fence into the UK airport and sprayed two private jets with the help of fire extinguishers filled with orange paint.

"Jennifer and Cole cut the fence into the private airfield at Stansted where @taylorswift13's jet is parked, demanding an emergency treaty to end fossil fuels by 2030," it said in a post&nbsp;on X.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
🚨 JUST STOP OIL PAINT PRIVATE JETS HOURS AFTER TAYLOR SWIFT'S LANDS 
 
🔥 Jennifer and Cole cut the fence into the private airfield at Stansted where <a href="https://twitter.com/taylorswift13?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@taylorswift13</a>'s jet is parked, demanding an emergency treaty to end fossil fuels by 2030. 
 
💸 Donate — <a href="https://t.co/UwALfVtRmR">https://t.co/UwALfVtRmR</a> <a href="https://t.co/aORdvUuQmU">pic.twitter.com/aORdvUuQmU</a>
— Just Stop Oil (@JustStop_Oil) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustStop_Oil/status/1803656272777998529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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&nbsp;

"I'm 22 and I've just sprayed 2 private jets orange. We need an international treaty against the burning of all oil, coal and gas. While people are starving, the elite and the rich fly thousands and thousands of feet in the air above us all. Billionaires are not untouchable," Macdonald said in the video.

As per Just Stop Oil, this was the same private airfield where pop star Taylor Swift's jet had landed "mere hours earlier".&nbsp;

However, the police said that at the time of the incident, Swift's aircraft was not at the airport.

She has previously found herself in hot waters for her use of private planes. Swift is currently on tour in the United Kingdom.

<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>

The Essex Police said that they had arrested both Kowalski and Macdonald following the incident.

<h2>An Indian-origin man among two arrested for spraying an orange substance on UK's Stonehenge</h2>

The incident comes a day after British police arrested two people, including an Indian-origin man, for spraying an orange-coloured substance on Stonehenge in southwest England.

Following the incident, the Just Stop Oil protest group released a statement saying that two of its activists "decorated Stonehenge in orange powder paint" to demand that the United Kingdom's future government would legally vow to phase out fossil fuels by the year 2030.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
🚨 BREAKING: Just Stop Oil Spray Stonehenge Orange 
 
🔥 2 people took action the day before Summer Solstice, demanding the incoming government sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030. 
 
🧯 Help us take megalithic action — <a href="https://t.co/R20S8YQD1j">https://t.co/R20S8YQD1j</a> <a href="https://t.co/ufzO8ZiDWu">pic.twitter.com/ufzO8ZiDWu</a>
— Just Stop Oil (@JustStop_Oil) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustStop_Oil/status/1803390932848394570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The arrested Indian-origin man identified as 73-year-old Rajan Naidu is an environmental activist and a member of the Just Stop Oil group.

The group said that they had used "orange cornflour" to spray on the historic monuments and that it would wash away with the rain.

Both the acts come ahead of the UK's general elections set to take place on July 4.

<h2>'Disgraceful act of vandalism': UK PM Sunak</h2>

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak&nbsp;condemned&nbsp;the incident calling it a "disgraceful act of vandalism to one of the UK's and the world's oldest and most important monuments".

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Just Stop Oil are a disgrace.
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak/status/1803411704753148081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"Just Stop Oil should be ashamed of their activists," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A group of activists on Thursday (June 20) sprayed an orange-coloured substance on private jets parked at Stansted Airport in England. The location of where the act was staged was verified with the help of the houses, pavement, and trees visible in the video posted by the environmental group Just Stop Oil on its official X handle.

A group of activists on Thursday (June 20) sprayed an orange-coloured substance on private jets parked at Stansted Airport in England. The location of where the act was staged was verified with the help of the houses, pavement, and trees visible in the video posted by the environmental group Just Stop Oil on its official X handle. The group in its post said that two activists 28-year-old Jennifer Kowalski and 22-year-old Cole Macdonald cut the fence into the UK airport and sprayed two private jets with the help of fire extinguishers filled with orange paint. "Jennifer and Cole cut the fence into the private airfield at Stansted where @taylorswift13's jet is parked, demanding an emergency treaty to end fossil fuels by 2030," it said in a post on X. 🚨 JUST STOP OIL PAINT PRIVATE JETS HOURS AFTER TAYLOR SWIFT'S LANDS 🔥 Jennifer and Cole cut the fence into the private airfield at Stansted where @taylorswift13's jet is parked, demanding an emergency treaty to end fossil fuels by 2030. 💸 Donate — https://t.co/UwALfVtRmR pic.twitter.com/aORdvUuQmU — Just Stop Oil (@JustStop_Oil) June 20, 2024 × "I'm 22 and I've just sprayed 2 private jets orange. We need an international treaty against the burning of all oil, coal and gas. While people are starving, the elite and the rich fly thousands and thousands of feet in the air above us all. Billionaires are not untouchable," Macdonald said in the video. As per Just Stop Oil, this was the same private airfield where pop star Taylor Swift's jet had landed "mere hours earlier". However, the police said that at the time of the incident, Swift's aircraft was not at the airport. She has previously found herself in hot waters for her use of private planes. Swift is currently on tour in the United Kingdom. Also read: Indian-origin man among two arrested by British police for spraying orange substance on UK's Stonehenge The Essex Police said that they had arrested both Kowalski and Macdonald following the incident. An Indian-origin man among two arrested for spraying an orange substance on UK's Stonehenge The incident comes a day after British police arrested two people, including an Indian-origin man, for spraying an orange-coloured substance on Stonehenge in southwest England. Following the incident, the Just Stop Oil protest group released a statement saying that two of its activists "decorated Stonehenge in orange powder paint" to demand that the United Kingdom's future government would legally vow to phase out fossil fuels by the year 2030. 🚨 BREAKING: Just Stop Oil Spray Stonehenge Orange 🔥 2 people took action the day before Summer Solstice, demanding the incoming government sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030. 🧯 Help us take megalithic action — https://t.co/R20S8YQD1j pic.twitter.com/ufzO8ZiDWu — Just Stop Oil (@JustStop_Oil) June 19, 2024 × The arrested Indian-origin man identified as 73-year-old Rajan Naidu is an environmental activist and a member of the Just Stop Oil group. The group said that they had used "orange cornflour" to spray on the historic monuments and that it would wash away with the rain. Both the acts come ahead of the UK's general elections set to take place on July 4. 'Disgraceful act of vandalism': UK PM Sunak Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned the incident calling it a "disgraceful act of vandalism to one of the UK's and the world's oldest and most important monuments". Just Stop Oil are a disgrace. — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) June 19, 2024 × "Just Stop Oil should be ashamed of their activists," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Environmental activists arrested for spraying orange paint on private jets at UK airport

A seven-month-old girl died after being bitten by her family's pet dog at their home in Coventry, England on Sunday. The dog was reportedly humanely destroyed.&nbsp;

As per local reports, the police said that she was rushed to hospital by ambulance from the scene in Shorncliffe Road, but died a short time later.&nbsp;

The police haven't released details about the dog's breed, but reports have mentioned that the dog wasn't classed as a dangerous breed.&nbsp;

According to the West Midlands Police, "A baby has tragically died after being bitten by a pet dog at a home in Coventry.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/environmental-activists-spray-orange-substance-on-uks-stonehenge-police-arrest-two-733259">Environmental activists spray orange substance on UK's Stonehenge, police arrest two</a>&nbsp;

"We were called to a property at Shorncliffe Road shortly after 3 pm on Sunday. Together with our ambulance colleagues, we arrived within minutes.

"A seven-month-old baby girl had received serious injuries to her head after being bitten by the family’s dog inside the home.

"She received treatment at the scene by paramedics before being rushed to hospital for further treatment. Tragically, she died a short time later.

"Our thoughts remain with her family at this devastating time. We are in the early stages of our investigation and our enquiries are continuing," the police said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-faces-backlash-for-transphobic-remarks-amid-electoral-struggle-733264">Macron faces backlash for 'transphobic' remarks amid electoral struggle</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Dog attacks in the UK&nbsp;</h2>

Such cases have seen a rise across the nation, forcing the government to announce a ban on owning certain types of dogs. Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino,&nbsp;Fila Brasileiro and&nbsp;XL Bully dogs are banned in England and Wales.&nbsp;

Figures from the Office for National Statistics revealed that a total of 16 people died as a result of dog attacks in the first nine months of 2023.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A seven-month-old girl died after being bitten by her family's pet dog at their home in Coventry, England on Sunday. The dog was reportedly humanely destroyed. As per local reports, the police said that she was rushed to hospital by ambulance from the scene in Shorncliffe Road, but died a short time later.

A seven-month-old girl died after being bitten by her family's pet dog at their home in Coventry, England on Sunday. The dog was reportedly humanely destroyed. As per local reports, the police said that she was rushed to hospital by ambulance from the scene in Shorncliffe Road, but died a short time later. The police haven't released details about the dog's breed, but reports have mentioned that the dog wasn't classed as a dangerous breed. According to the West Midlands Police, "A baby has tragically died after being bitten by a pet dog at a home in Coventry. Also read: Environmental activists spray orange substance on UK's Stonehenge, police arrest two "We were called to a property at Shorncliffe Road shortly after 3 pm on Sunday. Together with our ambulance colleagues, we arrived within minutes. "A seven-month-old baby girl had received serious injuries to her head after being bitten by the family’s dog inside the home. "She received treatment at the scene by paramedics before being rushed to hospital for further treatment. Tragically, she died a short time later. "Our thoughts remain with her family at this devastating time. We are in the early stages of our investigation and our enquiries are continuing," the police said. Also read: Macron faces backlash for 'transphobic' remarks amid electoral struggle Dog attacks in the UK Such cases have seen a rise across the nation, forcing the government to announce a ban on owning certain types of dogs. Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro and XL Bully dogs are banned in England and Wales. Figures from the Office for National Statistics revealed that a total of 16 people died as a result of dog attacks in the first nine months of 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Seven-year-old mauled to death by family dog at home in UK

South Korea said Thursday that it would consider sending arms to Ukraine, a major policy change suggested after Russia and North Korea rattled the region and beyond by signing a pact to come to each other’s defense in the event of war.

The comments from a senior presidential official came hours after North Korea’s state media released the details of the agreement, which observers said could mark the strongest connection between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War. It comes at a time when Russia faces growing isolation over its war in Ukraine and both countries face escalating standoffs with the West.

According to the text of the deal published by the North’s official Korean Central News Agency, if either country gets invaded and is pushed into a state of war, the other must deploy “all means at its disposal without delay” to provide “military and other assistance.” But the agreement also says that such actions must be in accordance with the laws of both countries and Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which recognizes a U.N. member state’s right to self-defense.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the pact at a summit Wednesday in Pyongyang. Both described it as a major upgrade of bilateral relations, covering security, trade, investment, cultural and humanitarian ties.

The office of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a statement condemning the agreement, calling it a threat to the South’s security and a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, and warned that it would have negative consequences on Seoul’s relations with Moscow.

“It’s absurd that two parties with a history of launching wars of invasion — the Korean War and the war in Ukraine — are now vowing mutual military cooperation on the premise of a preemptive attack by the international community that will never happen,” Yoon’s office said.

At the United Nations in New York, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul called it “deplorable” that Russia would act in violation of multiple U.N. sanctions resolutions against North Korea that Moscow voted for.

Yoon’s national security adviser, Chang Ho-jin, said Seoul would reconsider the issue of providing arms to Ukraine to help the country fight off Russia’s invasion.

South Korea, a growing arms exporter with a well-equipped military backed by the United States, has provided humanitarian aid and other support to Ukraine while joining U.S.-led economic sanctions against Moscow. But it has not directly provided arms to Kyiv, citing a longstanding policy of not supplying weapons to countries actively engaged in conflict.

The summit between Kim and Putin came as the U.S. and its allies expressed growing concern over a possible arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions for its war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kim’s nuclear weapons and missile program.

Following their summit, Kim said the two countries had a “fiery friendship,” and that the deal was their “strongest-ever treaty,” putting the relationship at the level of an alliance. He vowed full support for Russia’s war in Ukraine. Putin called it a “breakthrough document” reflecting shared desires to move relations to a higher level.

North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty in 1961, which experts say necessitated Moscow’s military intervention if the North came under attack. The deal was discarded after the collapse of the USSR, replaced by one in 2000 that offered weaker security assurances.

There’s ongoing debate on how strong of a security commitment the deal entails. While some analysts see the agreement as a full restoration of the countries’ Cold War-era alliance, others say the deal seems more symbolic than substantial.

Ankit Panda, a senior analyst at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said the text appeared to be carefully worded as to not imply automatic military invention. 
But “the big picture here is that both sides are willing to put down on paper, and show the world, just how widely they intend to expand the scope of their cooperation,” he said.

The deal was made as Putin visited North Korea for the first time in 24 years, a trip that showcased their personal and geopolitical ties with Kim hugging Putin twice at the airport, their motorcade rolling past giant Russian flags and Putin portraits, and a welcoming ceremony at Pyongyang’s main square attended by what appeared to be tens of thousands of spectators.

According to KCNA, the agreement also states that Pyongyang and Moscow must not enter into agreements with third parties if they infringe on the “core interests” of any of them and must not participate in actions that threaten those interests.

KCNA said the agreement requires the countries to take steps to prepare joint measures for the purpose of strengthening their defense capabilities to prevent war and protect regional and global peace and security. The agency didn’t specify what those steps are, or whether they would include combined military training and other cooperation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-pyongyang-yawn-social-media-buzzes-over-videos-of-bored-putin-at-north-korean-concert-733542">Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics</a>

The agreement also calls for the countries to actively cooperate in efforts to establish a “just and multipolar new world order,” KCNA said, underscoring how the countries are aligning in face of their separate confrontations with the United States.

How the pact affects Russia’s relations with the South is a key development to watch, said Jenny Town, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington and director of the North Korea-focused 38 North website.

“Seoul had already signed onto sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, souring its relations with Moscow. Now with any ambiguity of Russia’s partnership with North Korea removed, how will Seoul respond?” she said. “Is there a point where it decides to cut or suspend diplomatic ties with Russia or expel its ambassador? And have we reached it?”

Kim in recent months has made Russia his priority as he pushes a foreign policy aimed at expanding relations with countries confronting Washington, embracing the idea of a “new Cold War” and trying to display a united front in Putin’s broader conflicts with the West.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Kim’s weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the U.S., South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle.

The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tons of trash on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers.

South Korea said Thursday that it would consider sending arms to Ukraine, a major policy change suggested after Russia and North Korea rattled the region and beyond by signing a pact to come to each other’s defense in the event of war.

South Korea said Thursday that it would consider sending arms to Ukraine, a major policy change suggested after Russia and North Korea rattled the region and beyond by signing a pact to come to each other’s defense in the event of war. The comments from a senior presidential official came hours after North Korea’s state media released the details of the agreement, which observers said could mark the strongest connection between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War. It comes at a time when Russia faces growing isolation over its war in Ukraine and both countries face escalating standoffs with the West. According to the text of the deal published by the North’s official Korean Central News Agency, if either country gets invaded and is pushed into a state of war, the other must deploy “all means at its disposal without delay” to provide “military and other assistance.” But the agreement also says that such actions must be in accordance with the laws of both countries and Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which recognizes a U.N. member state’s right to self-defense. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the pact at a summit Wednesday in Pyongyang. Both described it as a major upgrade of bilateral relations, covering security, trade, investment, cultural and humanitarian ties. The office of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a statement condemning the agreement, calling it a threat to the South’s security and a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, and warned that it would have negative consequences on Seoul’s relations with Moscow. “It’s absurd that two parties with a history of launching wars of invasion — the Korean War and the war in Ukraine — are now vowing mutual military cooperation on the premise of a preemptive attack by the international community that will never happen,” Yoon’s office said. At the United Nations in New York, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul called it “deplorable” that Russia would act in violation of multiple U.N. sanctions resolutions against North Korea that Moscow voted for. Yoon’s national security adviser, Chang Ho-jin, said Seoul would reconsider the issue of providing arms to Ukraine to help the country fight off Russia’s invasion. South Korea, a growing arms exporter with a well-equipped military backed by the United States, has provided humanitarian aid and other support to Ukraine while joining U.S.-led economic sanctions against Moscow. But it has not directly provided arms to Kyiv, citing a longstanding policy of not supplying weapons to countries actively engaged in conflict. The summit between Kim and Putin came as the U.S. and its allies expressed growing concern over a possible arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions for its war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kim’s nuclear weapons and missile program. Following their summit, Kim said the two countries had a “fiery friendship,” and that the deal was their “strongest-ever treaty,” putting the relationship at the level of an alliance. He vowed full support for Russia’s war in Ukraine. Putin called it a “breakthrough document” reflecting shared desires to move relations to a higher level. North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty in 1961, which experts say necessitated Moscow’s military intervention if the North came under attack. The deal was discarded after the collapse of the USSR, replaced by one in 2000 that offered weaker security assurances. There’s ongoing debate on how strong of a security commitment the deal entails. While some analysts see the agreement as a full restoration of the countries’ Cold War-era alliance, others say the deal seems more symbolic than substantial. Ankit Panda, a senior analyst at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said the text appeared to be carefully worded as to not imply automatic military invention. But “the big picture here is that both sides are willing to put down on paper, and show the world, just how widely they intend to expand the scope of their cooperation,” he said. The deal was made as Putin visited North Korea for the first time in 24 years, a trip that showcased their personal and geopolitical ties with Kim hugging Putin twice at the airport, their motorcade rolling past giant Russian flags and Putin portraits, and a welcoming ceremony at Pyongyang’s main square attended by what appeared to be tens of thousands of spectators. According to KCNA, the agreement also states that Pyongyang and Moscow must not enter into agreements with third parties if they infringe on the “core interests” of any of them and must not participate in actions that threaten those interests. KCNA said the agreement requires the countries to take steps to prepare joint measures for the purpose of strengthening their defense capabilities to prevent war and protect regional and global peace and security. The agency didn’t specify what those steps are, or whether they would include combined military training and other cooperation. Also read: Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics The agreement also calls for the countries to actively cooperate in efforts to establish a “just and multipolar new world order,” KCNA said, underscoring how the countries are aligning in face of their separate confrontations with the United States. How the pact affects Russia’s relations with the South is a key development to watch, said Jenny Town, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington and director of the North Korea-focused 38 North website. “Seoul had already signed onto sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, souring its relations with Moscow. Now with any ambiguity of Russia’s partnership with North Korea removed, how will Seoul respond?” she said. “Is there a point where it decides to cut or suspend diplomatic ties with Russia or expel its ambassador? And have we reached it?” Kim in recent months has made Russia his priority as he pushes a foreign policy aimed at expanding relations with countries confronting Washington, embracing the idea of a “new Cold War” and trying to display a united front in Putin’s broader conflicts with the West. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Kim’s weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the U.S., South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle. The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tons of trash on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers.

South Korea will consider supplying arms to Ukraine after Russia and North Korea sign strategic pact

Two Agriculture Department personnel were beaten and briefly detained by assailants in the Mexican state of Michoacan, leading the US government to postpone inspections of Avocado and Mango shipments, the US ambassador to Mexico said Tuesday.

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Cyril Ramaphosa, leader of South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC), took oath as the nation's president for the next five years on Wednesday at a ceremony in Pretoria, the administrative capital.

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At least 922 people have died during the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca amid scorching heat. Watch in for more details!

Heatwave in Mecca kills 922 during Hajj pilgrimage, several missing

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Rutte set to be next NATO Chief - Romania to send Patriots to Ukraine - South Korea & US hold joint air drills - Kenya: Police fire tear gas on protesters - India: PM Modi begins 2-day J&K visit - UK keeps rates at 16-year high

Rutte set to be next NATO Chief | South Korea & US hold joint air drills

US and South Korean air forces held air drills over South Korea as tensions in the Korean Peninsula continue to escalate. Watch in for more details!

South Korean and US air forces hold joint drills

Ancient roots, modern practices. Join WION's Johan Castell as he takes part in a Yoga Wellness event in New Delhi during the full moon, and joins an eclectic group that is dancing into the night. Part of WION's special series Yoga: Celebrating India's Gift to mankind for June 21 International Yoga Day.

Yoga wellness in New Delhi - Yoga: Celebrating India's gift to mankind

Two growing wildfires near a popular New Mexico resort town destroyed more than 1,400 structures as officials rushed to evacuate thousands of people. Watch in for more details!

Wildfires in New Mexico burn out of control and force evacuations

How AI is changing the yoga experience. Can one rely on technology-based programmes for the traditional practice? Join WION's Nikita Singh as she reviews the AI-driven YogiFi smart yoga mat. Part of WION's special series Yoga: Celebrating India's Gift to Mankind on June 21 International Yoga Day.

Smart Yoga mat review - Yoga: Celebrating India's gift to mankind

Can Ayurveda change your life? To understand its opportunities and challenges WION's Johan Castell visits the Kairali Ayurvedic Healing Village in Kerala during the monsoon season. He also visits the Ayurvedic medicine factory for a deeper insight into the industry. Part of WION's special series Yoga: Celebrating India's Gift to mankind on June 21 International Yoga Day.

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The death toll during the&nbsp;Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia has surpassed 1,000 this year amid scorching heat, AFP reported&nbsp;on Thursday (June 20).

Out of the reported deaths, over half of them were unregistered worshippers who perished due to intense heat while performing the annual rituals in the holy city of Mecca.

The new deaths reported on Thursday (June 20) included 58 from Egypt, as per an Arab diplomat who provided a breakdown that showed out of 658 Egyptians who had lost their lives due to extreme temperatures, 630 were unregistered pilgrims.

The people were searching for their missing relatives and friends as the mercury soared over 50 degrees Celsius in Islam's holiest city on&nbsp;Wednesday (Jun 19).

Earlier on Monday, the temperature in Mecca&nbsp;was recorded at 51.8 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

Every year, almost 1.8 million people from across the world visit Mecca to take part in a mostly outdoor pilgrimage. Hajj is considered one of the five pillars of Islam and Muslims with the means are advised to visit Mecca at least once in their lifetime.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hajj-2024-turkish-pilgrim-undergoes-life-saving-brain-surgery-in-saudi-arabia-732439">Also read: Hajj 2024: Turkish pilgrim undergoes life-saving brain surgery in Saudi Arabia</a>

Saudi Arabian authorities say the temperatures&nbsp;have risen 0.4 degrees each decade in the city, piling more misery on the faithful crowd.

<h2>'68 dead from India'</h2>

At least 68 Indians have perished in the deadly heat conditions in Mecca, reported news agency AFP citing an Asian diplomat.

"Some (died) because of natural causes and we had many old-age pilgrims. And some are due to the weather conditions, that's what we assume," the diplomat said.

The deaths have also been confirmed by Jordan, Indonesia, Iran, Senegal, Tunisia and Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll during the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia has surpassed 1,000 this year amid scorching heat, AFP reported on Thursday (June 20). Out of the reported deaths, over half of them were unregistered worshippers who perished due to intense heat while performing the annual rituals in the holy city of Mecca.

The death toll during the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia has surpassed 1,000 this year amid scorching heat, AFP reported on Thursday (June 20). Out of the reported deaths, over half of them were unregistered worshippers who perished due to intense heat while performing the annual rituals in the holy city of Mecca. The new deaths reported on Thursday (June 20) included 58 from Egypt, as per an Arab diplomat who provided a breakdown that showed out of 658 Egyptians who had lost their lives due to extreme temperatures, 630 were unregistered pilgrims. The people were searching for their missing relatives and friends as the mercury soared over 50 degrees Celsius in Islam's holiest city on Wednesday (Jun 19). Earlier on Monday, the temperature in Mecca was recorded at 51.8 degrees Celsius. Every year, almost 1.8 million people from across the world visit Mecca to take part in a mostly outdoor pilgrimage. Hajj is considered one of the five pillars of Islam and Muslims with the means are advised to visit Mecca at least once in their lifetime. Also read: Hajj 2024: Turkish pilgrim undergoes life-saving brain surgery in Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabian authorities say the temperatures have risen 0.4 degrees each decade in the city, piling more misery on the faithful crowd. '68 dead from India' At least 68 Indians have perished in the deadly heat conditions in Mecca, reported news agency AFP citing an Asian diplomat. "Some (died) because of natural causes and we had many old-age pilgrims. And some are due to the weather conditions, that's what we assume," the diplomat said. The deaths have also been confirmed by Jordan, Indonesia, Iran, Senegal, Tunisia and Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region. (With inputs from agencies)

Hajj pilgrims death: Toll surpasses 1,000 amid day temperature soaring above 50 degrees

Manila released new footage of Chinese coast guard sailors brandishing knives, an axe and other weapons in a clash with Philippine naval vessels. The scuffle happened near a strategic reef in the South China Sea.

In a post on X, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said that in a "brazen act of aggression", Chinese forces obstructed critical humanitarian rotation and resupply operations at BRP Sierra Madre (LS57) in Ayungin Shoal on June 17.&nbsp;

The Philippines also claimed that the Chinese coast guard is employing physical attacks, bladed weapons, blaring sirens and blinding strobe lights.&nbsp;

The clash took place Monday as Philippine forces attempted to resupply marines stationed on a derelict warship that was deliberately grounded atop the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 to assert Manila's territorial claims.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-pyongyang-yawn-social-media-buzzes-over-videos-of-bored-putin-at-north-korean-concert-733542">Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert</a>

The clash became the latest in a series of escalating confrontations between Chinese and Philippine ships in recent months.&nbsp;

According to Philippine military chief General Romeo Brawner, the "outnumbered" Filipino crew had been unarmed and had fought with their "bare hands".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-lands-in-vietnam-after-signing-defence-pact-with-north-korea-irks-us-733328">Putin arrives in Vietnam after signing defence pact with North Korea, irks US</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Philippine military said that a Filipino sailor lost a thumb in the clash, in which the Chinese coast guard confiscated or destroyed Philippine equipment including guns.&nbsp;

The dramatic footage released by the Philippine military late Wednesday showed small boats crewed by Chinese sailors shouting, waving knives and using sticks to hit an inflatable boat as a siren blares.&nbsp;

A voice speaking Tagalog can be heard in one clip saying someone had "lost a finger". Manila's footage of the clash is slightly different from the photos released by Beijing's state media on Wednesday. Beijing's video did not show Chinese forces wielding weapons.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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CCG personnel violently attached ropes to tow the AFP's RHIB while threatening to injure an AFP soldier w/ a pickaxe. They also employed blaring sirens to create chaos, disrupt communication, and divert the attention of AFP troops, exacerbating the hostile &amp; dangerous situation. <a href="https://t.co/a8cPaGGH8j">pic.twitter.com/a8cPaGGH8j</a>
— Armed Forces of the Philippines (@TeamAFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamAFP/status/1803457303112458431?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The head of the Philippine armed forces said that Chinese troops are similar to the "pirates". He asked China to return the rifles and equipment they took.&nbsp;

"We are demanding that the Chinese return our rifles and our equipment and we are also demanding that they pay for the damage they caused," Brawner Jr said at a press conference in the Philippines' western Palawan province.&nbsp;

"They boarded our boats illegally and seized our equipment. They’re now like pirates with these kinds of actions," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>China calls it 'totally bogus'&nbsp;</h2>

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian was asked about the videos on Thursday to which&nbsp;he said that Manila's comments on the clash were "totally bogus accusations that confuse black with white".&nbsp;

The spokesperson blamed the Philippines for the confrontation, saying they had "escalated tensions" and accused them of ramming Chinese boats. Lin said the Philippine boats had been trying "to sneak in building materials, but also tried to smuggle in military equipment".&nbsp;

Beijing has insisted that its coast guard behaved in a "professional and restrained" way and claimed "no direct measures" were taken against Filipino personnel.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Manila released new footage of Chinese coast guard sailors brandishing knives, an axe and other weapons in a clash with Philippine naval vessels. The scuffle happened near a strategic reef in the South China Sea.

Manila released new footage of Chinese coast guard sailors brandishing knives, an axe and other weapons in a clash with Philippine naval vessels. The scuffle happened near a strategic reef in the South China Sea. In a post on X, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said that in a "brazen act of aggression", Chinese forces obstructed critical humanitarian rotation and resupply operations at BRP Sierra Madre (LS57) in Ayungin Shoal on June 17. The Philippines also claimed that the Chinese coast guard is employing physical attacks, bladed weapons, blaring sirens and blinding strobe lights. The clash took place Monday as Philippine forces attempted to resupply marines stationed on a derelict warship that was deliberately grounded atop the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 to assert Manila's territorial claims. Also read: Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert The clash became the latest in a series of escalating confrontations between Chinese and Philippine ships in recent months. According to Philippine military chief General Romeo Brawner, the "outnumbered" Filipino crew had been unarmed and had fought with their "bare hands". Also read: Putin arrives in Vietnam after signing defence pact with North Korea, irks US The Philippine military said that a Filipino sailor lost a thumb in the clash, in which the Chinese coast guard confiscated or destroyed Philippine equipment including guns. The dramatic footage released by the Philippine military late Wednesday showed small boats crewed by Chinese sailors shouting, waving knives and using sticks to hit an inflatable boat as a siren blares. A voice speaking Tagalog can be heard in one clip saying someone had "lost a finger". Manila's footage of the clash is slightly different from the photos released by Beijing's state media on Wednesday. Beijing's video did not show Chinese forces wielding weapons. Watch the video here: CCG personnel violently attached ropes to tow the AFP's RHIB while threatening to injure an AFP soldier w/ a pickaxe. They also employed blaring sirens to create chaos, disrupt communication, and divert the attention of AFP troops, exacerbating the hostile & dangerous situation. pic.twitter.com/a8cPaGGH8j — Armed Forces of the Philippines (@TeamAFP) June 19, 2024 × The head of the Philippine armed forces said that Chinese troops are similar to the "pirates". He asked China to return the rifles and equipment they took. "We are demanding that the Chinese return our rifles and our equipment and we are also demanding that they pay for the damage they caused," Brawner Jr said at a press conference in the Philippines' western Palawan province. "They boarded our boats illegally and seized our equipment. They’re now like pirates with these kinds of actions," he said. China calls it 'totally bogus' Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian was asked about the videos on Thursday to which he said that Manila's comments on the clash were "totally bogus accusations that confuse black with white". The spokesperson blamed the Philippines for the confrontation, saying they had "escalated tensions" and accused them of ramming Chinese boats. Lin said the Philippine boats had been trying "to sneak in building materials, but also tried to smuggle in military equipment". Beijing has insisted that its coast guard behaved in a "professional and restrained" way and claimed "no direct measures" were taken against Filipino personnel. (With inputs from agencies)

Dramatic video shows Chinese coast guards attacking Philippine naval vessels with knives, axes

Watch top headlines of the hour: - IDF kill Hamas squad commander - Romania to send Patriots to Ukraine - Kenya police fire tear gas on protesters - South Korea and US hold joint air drills - Jaishankar meets Sri Lankan President Delhi: 17 dead in heatwave

IDF kills Hamas Squad Commander | Romania to send Patriots to Ukraine | WION Headlines

Tensions and chaos in the coalition amplified Wednesday, as the ruling Likud party accused Otzma Yehudit leader Itamar Ben Gvir of leaking “state secrets.” Watch to know more.

Israel PM Netanyahu accuses Ben Gvir of 'leaking secrets'

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Vietnam on Thursday for talks with the country's Communist leaders on the final stop of his two-nation tour of Asia after concluding a defence pact with North Korea. Watch in for more details!

Russian President Putin visits Vietnam to bolster relations

Netizens go through everything on social media with a fine tooth comb, and this time, none other than Russian President Vladimir Putin caught their attention. Videos from Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years have gone viral on social media, allegedly showing the leader looking bored at a special concert performance in Pyongyang in his honour.

Netizens go through everything on social media with a fine tooth comb, and this time, none other than Russian President Vladimir Putin caught their attention. Videos from Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years have gone viral on social media, allegedly showing the leader looking bored at a special concert performance in Pyongyang in his honour. Aside from Russian and North Korean delegations, Putin and Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, attended the concert at the Pyongyang Sports Hall. "We welcome the President of the Russian Federation, Comrade Vladimir Putin!" a banner extended across the hall read in Korean and Russian. Following Putin's full-scale invasion of the neighbouring country, Ukraine in February 2022, Pyongyang and Moscow have strengthened their diplomatic ties. On Wednesday, the two presidents inked a fresh strategic alliance deal that mandates that, in the event of a conflict, both countries will employ all available means to provide prompt military support. Putin: "How did I get myself into this?!" pic.twitter.com/5fU5KulA0L — Ian Corzine (@iancorzine) June 19, 2024 × Both nations' national anthems were played, and artists treated Putin to a medley of Russian hits, such as "The Sacred War," "Where Does the Motherland Begin," "We Need One Victory," and "Katyusha." A video of Putin at the event, which has been viewed over 200,000 times, led social media users to speculate that he did not like the concert. Also read: Israel deepens Rafah offensive as civilians in central Gaza camps scramble for safety "Putin: 'How did I get myself into this?!'" one X user commented, sharing a screen grab of the Russian leader. "Putin looks bored," wrote another. Putin's thoughts at this very moment: Jesus, they won't stop clapping — NovaScotia 2SLGBTQIA+ (@NovaScotiaAnon) June 19, 2024 × "The body language doesn't show excitement or happiness in either leader," commented a third. Russia's state-run news agency Tass quoted Kim on Wednesday, stating that his country "expresses full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out a special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests, as well as territorial integrity." "The comprehensive partnership agreement signed today provides, among other things, for mutual assistance in the event of aggression against one of the parties to this agreement," Putin was quoted as saying by Tass. Kim referred to the deal as the "strongest ever treaty" that Moscow and Pyongyang had inked. Russian media agencies said that Putin extended an invitation to Kim to visit the Russian capital at a later date. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics

In yet another case of Amazon delivery gone bad, a Bengaluru woman discovered a snake inside her Amazon parcel. On June 16, the woman ordered a Microbox Xbox controller from Amazon India. The delivery arrived on June 18. When the woman opened the box, she was horrified to see a snake inside.

Woman orders Xbox controller, finds a snake instead

Israel's top army spokesman said that Hamas cannot be defeated as an ideology, prompting the government to quickly re-assert that it remains committed to the Palestinian group's destruction. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israel army spokesman says Hamas can't be defeated as an 'ideology'

A major Savanta poll reveals big Tory leaders, about three quarters of the present cabinet, are set to lose elections as the United Kingdom goes to polls on July 4th.

UK: Tory stalwarts set to lose in UK, Rishi Sunak to be first sitting PM in UK history to lose seat

Canada on Wednesday listed Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code after years of mounting pressure. Watch in for more details!

Canada lists Iran's IRGC as 'Terrorist Group', top Iranian officials barred from entering Canada

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Houthis release 'MV Tutor' attack footage - Vietnam: Putin attends welcome ceremony - US congressional delegates meet PM Modi - India reports over 40,000 suspected heatstroke cases - Rupee at record low against dollar - Boeing's victim seek compensation

Boeing victims seek compensation | Rupee at record low against dollar

On Tuesday, China conveyed "strong concern" over the visit of a high-level US Congress delegation to Dharamshala to meet with the Dalai Lama and urged US President Joe Biden not to sign the Tibet policy bill, threatening "resolute measures".

Biden to sign 'resolve Tibet Act'; Biden to take decision which is best for America: White House

Israeli forces bombed areas in the central Gaza Strip in overnight raids during wee hours of Thursday (June 20), killing three people and injuring dozens of others, as per the medics. Meanwhile, the Israeli tanks also deepened their invasion into Rafah in the southern part of blockaded Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

Gaza health officials cited by news agency Reuters said that Israeli planes struck a house in Al-Nuseirat camp, killing two people and wounding 12 others. Tanks also shelled areas in Al-Maghazi and Al-Bureij camps.&nbsp;

Nuseirat, Maghazi, and Bureij are three of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps.

In Deir al-Balah, a city packed with displaced people in the central Gaza Strip, an Israeli air strike killed one Palestinian and wounded several others on Thursday, medics said.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel war: Temporary Gaza pier to be dismantled as it failed its mission, says officials

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The Israeli military said on Wednesday (June 19) that its forces were continuing their operations across the enclave in what it described as "precise, intelligence-based" activities.

Over eight months into the war in Gaza, Israel's offensive is now focused on the two last areas its forces had yet to storm: Rafah on Gaza's southern edge and the area surrounding Deir al-Balah in the centre.&nbsp;

Since May, more than a million people have been forced to flee. The vast majority are already displaced from other parts of the blockaded Palestinian enclave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-forces-destroy-two-houthi-targets-in-yemen-amid-red-sea-ship-attacks-733326">US forces destroy two Houthi targets in Yemen amid Red Sea ship attacks</a>

A Reuters report described Israeli tanks stationed deep in the western and central areas of Rafah. The tanks reportedly stepped up bombardment, forcing more families living in the far coastal areas to flee northward.&nbsp;

Some residents said the pace of the raid has been accelerated in the past two days.

Rafah housed over half of Gaza's 2.3 million people until May 7 when Israeli forces began the ground offensive into the city. Fewer than 100,000 are now believed to be left behind.

On Thursday (June 20), Israeli authorities also freed 33 Palestinians who had been detained during the past months by Israeli forces in different areas of the blockaded Palestinian&nbsp;enclave. The freed detainees were admitted into Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip after they complained of torture and mistreatment, a claim Israel denied.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli forces bombed areas in the central Gaza Strip in overnight raids during wee hours of Thursday (June 20), killing three people and injuring dozens of others, as per the medics.

Israeli forces bombed areas in the central Gaza Strip in overnight raids during wee hours of Thursday (June 20), killing three people and injuring dozens of others, as per the medics. Meanwhile, the Israeli tanks also deepened their invasion into Rafah in the southern part of blockaded Palestinian enclave. Gaza health officials cited by news agency Reuters said that Israeli planes struck a house in Al-Nuseirat camp, killing two people and wounding 12 others. Tanks also shelled areas in Al-Maghazi and Al-Bureij camps. Nuseirat, Maghazi, and Bureij are three of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps. In Deir al-Balah, a city packed with displaced people in the central Gaza Strip, an Israeli air strike killed one Palestinian and wounded several others on Thursday, medics said. Also watch | Israel war: Temporary Gaza pier to be dismantled as it failed its mission, says officials × The Israeli military said on Wednesday (June 19) that its forces were continuing their operations across the enclave in what it described as "precise, intelligence-based" activities. Over eight months into the war in Gaza, Israel's offensive is now focused on the two last areas its forces had yet to storm: Rafah on Gaza's southern edge and the area surrounding Deir al-Balah in the centre. Since May, more than a million people have been forced to flee. The vast majority are already displaced from other parts of the blockaded Palestinian enclave. Also read | US forces destroy two Houthi targets in Yemen amid Red Sea ship attacks A Reuters report described Israeli tanks stationed deep in the western and central areas of Rafah. The tanks reportedly stepped up bombardment, forcing more families living in the far coastal areas to flee northward. Some residents said the pace of the raid has been accelerated in the past two days. Rafah housed over half of Gaza's 2.3 million people until May 7 when Israeli forces began the ground offensive into the city. Fewer than 100,000 are now believed to be left behind. On Thursday (June 20), Israeli authorities also freed 33 Palestinians who had been detained during the past months by Israeli forces in different areas of the blockaded Palestinian enclave. The freed detainees were admitted into Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip after they complained of torture and mistreatment, a claim Israel denied. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel deepens Rafah offensive as civilians in central Gaza camps scramble for safety

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