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<p>Amid concerns about how his advanced age might affect his ability to lead the United States for another term, President Joe Biden, at a star-studded campaign fundraiser event on Saturday (June 15) was seen standing still, staring into the crowd.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 81-year-old had to be grabbed by his wrist and led offstage by his former boss, Barack Obama. This moment was captured on camera and&nbsp;occurred after a 45-minute interview with Jimmy Kimmel at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Is Biden fit for another term in the White House?</strong></h2>

<p>The recent incident involving the octogenarian has once again sparked scrutiny over his fitness to lead the Western power.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/star-studded-fundraiser-for-bidens-re-election-campaign-sets-record-with-30-million-raised-732338">Star-studded fundraiser for Biden's re-election campaign sets record with $30 million raised</a></strong></p>

<p>Biden, as per videos of the incident, stood still for more than five seconds after waving to the crowd, following which Obama took his wrist and led him away.</p>

<p>Watch the video here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">NEW: Former President Barack Obama has to help guide a confused President Biden off stage as he appears to freeze at an L.A. fundraiser.<br />
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The incident happened at Peacock Theater in L.A. where Biden raised $28 million.<br />
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Obama was seen handling the president off stage who was… <a href="https://t.co/3EhZOjtV9l">pic.twitter.com/3EhZOjtV9l</a></p>
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/1802370687845474327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The video has once again sparked discussions online about Biden's mental state and fitness for another term.</p>

<p>Critics, including hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman, questioned Biden's ability to lead.</p>

<p>"Biden is an old 81 who can’t find his way off a stage or stay present and focused at a G7 conference. Is that who should be the leader of the free world for the next five years?" he wrote on X.</p>

<p>"A president should not have to be led off stage by hand or with an arm wrapped around him. That is not the image of strength and leadership we need as a country," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have been criticized by some for sharing these <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> Biden videos which appear almost every day. I have read numerous articles which somehow suggest that the camera angle, the duration of the clip or some form of right wing manipulation explains Biden’s behavior on camera.… <a href="https://t.co/n9aAXQGqdZ">https://t.co/n9aAXQGqdZ</a></p>
— Bill Ackman (@BillAckman) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillAckman/status/1802454591591563714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>'Disinformation' campaign</strong></h2>

<p>Biden's team, however, has slammed "disinformation" being spread against the US president.</p>

<p>Last week, a video of Biden purportedly wandering away from other leaders at the G7 was widely shared.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-premier-announces-new-pandas-for-australia-during-historic-visit-amid-thawing-relations-732363">China's Premier announces new pandas for Australia during historic visit amid thawing relations</a></strong></p>

<p>Slamming the "disinformation",&nbsp;Biden's campaign spokesperson, Adrienne Elrod, said the video was edited to remove context showing Biden greeting parachutists who were part of a skydiving demonstration.</p>

<p>Videos from the fundraiser, shared by the Hollywood Reporter's Chris Gardner, fuelled speculation, but the White House and Obama's team dismissed claims that Biden required assistance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House spokesperson Andrew Bates explained on X that Biden was merely appreciating the audience's applause.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">By pretending the President taking in an applauding crowd for a few seconds is somehow wrong, all they’re really admitting is - once again - is they can’t take on the leadership that’s fueling the strongest economic growth in the world &amp; bringing violent crime to a 50 year low.</p>
— Andrew Bates (@AndrewJBates46) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndrewJBates46/status/1802434506705789305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid concerns about how his advanced age might affect his ability to lead the United States for another term, President Joe Biden, at a star-studded campaign fundraiser event on Saturday (June 15) was seen standing still, staring into the crowd.

Amid concerns about how his advanced age might affect his ability to lead the United States for another term, President Joe Biden, at a star-studded campaign fundraiser event on Saturday (June 15) was seen standing still, staring into the crowd. The 81-year-old had to be grabbed by his wrist and led offstage by his former boss, Barack Obama. This moment was captured on camera and occurred after a 45-minute interview with Jimmy Kimmel at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. Is Biden fit for another term in the White House? The recent incident involving the octogenarian has once again sparked scrutiny over his fitness to lead the Western power. Also read | Star-studded fundraiser for Biden's re-election campaign sets record with $30 million raised Biden, as per videos of the incident, stood still for more than five seconds after waving to the crowd, following which Obama took his wrist and led him away. Watch the video here: NEW: Former President Barack Obama has to help guide a confused President Biden off stage as he appears to freeze at an L.A. fundraiser. The incident happened at Peacock Theater in L.A. where Biden raised $28 million. Obama was seen handling the president off stage who was… pic.twitter.com/3EhZOjtV9l — Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) June 16, 2024 × The video has once again sparked discussions online about Biden's mental state and fitness for another term. Critics, including hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman, questioned Biden's ability to lead. "Biden is an old 81 who can’t find his way off a stage or stay present and focused at a G7 conference. Is that who should be the leader of the free world for the next five years?" he wrote on X. "A president should not have to be led off stage by hand or with an arm wrapped around him. That is not the image of strength and leadership we need as a country," he added. I have been criticized by some for sharing these @POTUS Biden videos which appear almost every day. I have read numerous articles which somehow suggest that the camera angle, the duration of the clip or some form of right wing manipulation explains Biden’s behavior on camera.… https://t.co/n9aAXQGqdZ — Bill Ackman (@BillAckman) June 16, 2024 × 'Disinformation' campaign Biden's team, however, has slammed "disinformation" being spread against the US president. Last week, a video of Biden purportedly wandering away from other leaders at the G7 was widely shared. Also read | China's Premier announces new pandas for Australia during historic visit amid thawing relations Slamming the "disinformation", Biden's campaign spokesperson, Adrienne Elrod, said the video was edited to remove context showing Biden greeting parachutists who were part of a skydiving demonstration. Videos from the fundraiser, shared by the Hollywood Reporter's Chris Gardner, fuelled speculation, but the White House and Obama's team dismissed claims that Biden required assistance. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates explained on X that Biden was merely appreciating the audience's applause. By pretending the President taking in an applauding crowd for a few seconds is somehow wrong, all they’re really admitting is - once again - is they can’t take on the leadership that’s fueling the strongest economic growth in the world & bringing violent crime to a 50 year low. — Andrew Bates (@AndrewJBates46) June 16, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Viral video: Biden allegedly freezes on stage, Obama steps in. What happened?

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MH370 Mystery: Signal that could solve the mystery of flight MH370 detected

Signal that could solve the mystery of flight MH370 detected

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Australia's Albanese in China, hold talks on trade, rights with Premier Li Qiang

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<p>Thailand's former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was granted release on bail on Tuesday (June 18) hours after he was&nbsp;indicted for defaming the country’s monarchy. Addressing a press conference,&nbsp;Prayuth Bejraguna, a spokesperson for the Office of the Attorney General, said that Thaksin, 74, reported himself to prosecutors on Tuesday&nbsp;morning and was indicted.</p>

<p>A report by the news agency Associated Press said that a car believed to be carrying the former prime minister arrived at the Criminal Court in Bangkok but he did not come out to meet the media. Thaksin's lawyer told reporters&nbsp;that he was ready to enter the judicial process.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-sentences-musician-to-4-years-for-insulting-monarchy-725844">Thailand sentences musician to four years for insulting monarchy</a></strong></p>

<p>The same car left the court a few hours later after Thaksin was granted bail, though he did not speak to reporters.</p>

<h2><strong>Bail approved with this condition</strong></h2>

<p>The Criminal Court said on Tuesday that&nbsp;Thaksin’s bail release was approved with a bond worth $13,000 (500,000 baht), under the condition that he cannot&nbsp;travel out of Thailand unless he receives permission from the court. The 74-year-old's passport has been confiscated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court later issued a statement listing several reasons for allowing him bail, including Thaksin's age, his having a&nbsp;permanent address in Thailand, and the lack of an objection from the prosecutor.</p>

<h2><strong>The consequences of defaming monarchy</strong></h2>

<p>The law on defaming the monarchy, an offence known as lese majeste, is punishable by three to 15 years in prison.&nbsp;It is among the harshest such laws globally and has been used increasingly in Thailand to punish government critics.</p>

<p>Thaksin served as Thailand's PM from 2001 until 2006 when he was ousted in an army coup that set off years of deep political polarisation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>His opponents, who were generally staunch royalists, had accused him of corruption, abuse of power and disrespecting the then-King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who died in 2016.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Thailand's former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was granted release on bail on Tuesday (June 18) hours after he was indicted for defaming the country’s monarchy.

Thailand's former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was granted release on bail on Tuesday (June 18) hours after he was indicted for defaming the country’s monarchy. Addressing a press conference, Prayuth Bejraguna, a spokesperson for the Office of the Attorney General, said that Thaksin, 74, reported himself to prosecutors on Tuesday morning and was indicted. A report by the news agency Associated Press said that a car believed to be carrying the former prime minister arrived at the Criminal Court in Bangkok but he did not come out to meet the media. Thaksin's lawyer told reporters that he was ready to enter the judicial process. Also read | Thailand sentences musician to four years for insulting monarchy The same car left the court a few hours later after Thaksin was granted bail, though he did not speak to reporters. Bail approved with this condition The Criminal Court said on Tuesday that Thaksin’s bail release was approved with a bond worth $13,000 (500,000 baht), under the condition that he cannot travel out of Thailand unless he receives permission from the court. The 74-year-old's passport has been confiscated. The court later issued a statement listing several reasons for allowing him bail, including Thaksin's age, his having a permanent address in Thailand, and the lack of an objection from the prosecutor. The consequences of defaming monarchy The law on defaming the monarchy, an offence known as lese majeste, is punishable by three to 15 years in prison. It is among the harshest such laws globally and has been used increasingly in Thailand to punish government critics. Thaksin served as Thailand's PM from 2001 until 2006 when he was ousted in an army coup that set off years of deep political polarisation. His opponents, who were generally staunch royalists, had accused him of corruption, abuse of power and disrespecting the then-King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who died in 2016. (With inputs from agencies)

Thailand royal defamation case: Ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra indicted, granted bail

<p>Several foreign nationals, especially bachelors, were abruptly evicted from their homes in Kuwait after authorities enforced building code violations and cut off electricity supply to three properties in the Bnied Al-Gar area, according to a media report on Monday.</p>

<p>The development came days after 50 people, including 46 Indians, died in a massive building fire which Kuwaiti authorities said was due to an electrical short circuit in the room of the guard on the ground floor of the structure.</p>

<p>Several bachelor expats in Bnied Al-Gar were abruptly evicted and left on the streets after authorities enforced building code violations. Officials cut off electricity and water supplies to three buildings during the scorching summer, where temperatures in Kuwait exceed 45 degrees Celsius, intensifying the residents' distress, the Arab Times newspaper reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Kuwait Fire Tragedy: India brings back mortal remains of 45 Indians killed in Kuwait fire</strong></p>

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<p>The eviction followed a crackdown on properties that failed to meet local regulations. Officials cited serious violations that posed health and safety risks, necessitating immediate action. The sudden disruption left many expats on the streets without shelter at night, it said.</p>

<p>Community leaders are calling for more humane and transparent processes in handling such violations, advocating for a balance between regulatory enforcement and the welfare of foreign nationals.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-35-killed-in-building-fire-in-southern-kuwait-731085?utm_source=izooto&amp;utm_medium=push_notifications&amp;utm_campaign=Building%20fire%20in%20southern%20Kuwait">Kuwait building fire: 40 Indians among dozens killed, PM Modi offers condolences</a></strong></p>

<p>In the building fire tragedy that occurred on Wednesday last in Kuwait's southern city of Mangaf, most deaths were due to smoke inhalation while residents in the building were sleeping. The building was home to 196 migrant workers, mostly Indians.</p>

<p>The fire incident has triggered actions against violators of housing regulations.</p>

<p>Indians constitute 21 per cent (1 million) of the total population of Kuwait and 30 per cent of its workforce (approximately 9 lakhs).</p>


Several foreign nationals, especially bachelors, were abruptly evicted from their homes in Kuwait after authorities enforced building code violations and cut off electricity supply to three properties in the Bnied Al-Gar area, according to a media report on Monday.

Several foreign nationals, especially bachelors, were abruptly evicted from their homes in Kuwait after authorities enforced building code violations and cut off electricity supply to three properties in the Bnied Al-Gar area, according to a media report on Monday. The development came days after 50 people, including 46 Indians, died in a massive building fire which Kuwaiti authorities said was due to an electrical short circuit in the room of the guard on the ground floor of the structure. Several bachelor expats in Bnied Al-Gar were abruptly evicted and left on the streets after authorities enforced building code violations. Officials cut off electricity and water supplies to three buildings during the scorching summer, where temperatures in Kuwait exceed 45 degrees Celsius, intensifying the residents' distress, the Arab Times newspaper reported. Also watch | Kuwait Fire Tragedy: India brings back mortal remains of 45 Indians killed in Kuwait fire × The eviction followed a crackdown on properties that failed to meet local regulations. Officials cited serious violations that posed health and safety risks, necessitating immediate action. The sudden disruption left many expats on the streets without shelter at night, it said. Community leaders are calling for more humane and transparent processes in handling such violations, advocating for a balance between regulatory enforcement and the welfare of foreign nationals. Also read | Kuwait building fire: 40 Indians among dozens killed, PM Modi offers condolences In the building fire tragedy that occurred on Wednesday last in Kuwait's southern city of Mangaf, most deaths were due to smoke inhalation while residents in the building were sleeping. The building was home to 196 migrant workers, mostly Indians. The fire incident has triggered actions against violators of housing regulations. Indians constitute 21 per cent (1 million) of the total population of Kuwait and 30 per cent of its workforce (approximately 9 lakhs).

Several expats in Kuwait evicted amid building code crackdown: Report

Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national accused of hatching a plan to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the US, was presented in a federal court in Manhattan on Monday (Jun 17), and pleaded not guilty.

Pannun murder plot case: Indian suspect Nikhil Gupta pleads not guilty in US court

NSA Ajit Doval held extensive talks with his American counterpart Jake Sullivan, focusing on the implementation of the ambitious India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), bilateral defence ties and regional security situation on Monday. Watch in for more details!

NSA Ajit Doval meets his US counterpart Jake Sullivan in New Delhi

More than 20 NATO members will meet the military Alliance Target of spending at least 2% of their GDP on defense this year. This is as per NATO Secretary General Stoltenberg. Watch in for more details!

20 NATO allies to spend at least 2% of GDP on defense: NATO Chief

<p>The world is in the midst of the biggest election year in history with a little over half of the population headed to the polls, but it is also facing an uncertain time with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war as well as the rise in tensions in the Middle East due to the Israel-Hamas conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid this chaotic time, a growing number of people are selectively avoiding news calling it depressing, often repetitive and boring, according to a recent global study.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Selected news avoidance at record-high</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report by Oxford University’s Reuters Institute, as many as four in 10 (39 per cent) people said that they sometimes or often avoid the news.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The annual Reuters Institute Digital News Report noted that while this has been a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reuters-survey-reveals-people-are-increasingly-avoiding-news-heres-why-498272">growing trend observed for years now</a>, selected news avoidance is at its highest levels ever recorded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This year’s report is based on the responses collected from a total of 94,943 adults across 47 countries by YouGov in January and February.</p>

<p>The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, may have contributed to some of the record-high levels of news avoidance reported this time around, according to the Reuters Institute report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-us-nears-notifying-one-of-the-biggest-ever-arms-sales-to-israel-732635">Gaza war: US sets finger to trigger one of the biggest arms sales to Israel</a></strong></p>

<p>While the overall interest in news has somewhat stabilised this year, as per the report,&nbsp;the number of people who said that they selectively avoid the news was up by three percentage points to 39 per cent. Notably, this number is 10 percentage points higher than it was in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reason for this avoidance, as per the report, has not changed. People who say&nbsp;that they sometimes or often selectively avoid the news say it is often repetitive and boring.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, others told the researchers that the negative nature of the news makes them feel “anxious and powerless.”</p>

<p>“You’ve had the pandemic (and) wars, so it’s a fairly natural reaction for people to turn away from the news, whether it’s to protect their mental health or simply wanting to get on with the rest of their lives,” the report’s lead author Nic Newman told BBC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, around 39 per cent said that the news is not only depressing but relentless and they feel “worn out” by the amount these days.</p>

<h2><strong>Interest and trust in news</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the historic election year has reportedly led to an increased interest in the news with notable rises observed in a handful of countries including the United States. However, the long-term trend is mostly down in every country except Finland, according to the report.</p>

<p>Overall, 46 per cent of people across the world said they are very or extremely interested in news.&nbsp;The number is down from the 63 per cent recorded in 2017. Women and young people make up a significant proportion of that decline, the Reuters report noted.</p>

<p>The trust in news, according to the report, remained stable at 40 per cent, four points lower than it was at the height of the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>People turn to social media</strong></h2>

<p>According to the report, a majority of the respondents continued to identify platforms including social media, aggregators, and search engines as their main gateway to online news. However, only 22 per cent identified news websites or apps as their main source of online news.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, the audience for traditional news sources like newspapers or television has seen a sharp decline.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the report also noted a “strong shift” towards video-based platforms like YouTube and TikTok as well as Instagram. These platforms have become an important source of news since the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The growing popularity and reach of social media can no longer be ignored, with politicians taking to TikTok and other networks to reach young voters - from the new Argentinian President Javier Milei who runs a successful TikTok account with 2.2 million followers, to US President Joe Biden whose campaign sparked controversy by joining the popular social media app despite it being banned on most devices used by the American government over security concerns.</p>

<p>However, YouTube and Facebook, according to the report remain the most important platforms for online news videos overall with the former being the go-to for those under 25. On the other hand, older viewers continued to watch their videos on news websites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report noted that while mainstream media and journalists often lead conversations on X and Facebook, they fail to garner attention on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok where online influencers and celebrities are prominent.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Concerns about misinformation,&nbsp;fake news&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While more people have turned to social media for news, a majority of people in this important year of elections have said they are concerned about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-ai-generated-propaganda-poses-a-real-threat-this-historic-election-year-694344">reliability of the content online</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 50 countries across the world with a combined population of 4.2 billion are expected to hold national and/or local elections in 2024, making it the biggest election year in history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the US, while interest in news, due to the election, has risen by five percentage points, around 72 per cent of people said they are concerned about what is real and what is fake on the internet when it comes to online news, according to the report.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/warning-labels-on-social-media-vivek-murthy-calls-for-surgeon-generals-warning-label-for-child-safety-732714">Vivek Murthy calls for 'surgeon general's warning label' for child safety</a></strong></p>

<p>Similarly, in India, where the world’s largest general election recently concluded, 58 per cent of people shared the same concern.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Overall, six in 10 people (59 per cent) said they are concerned about what is real and what is fake on the internet in the context of online news.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Facebook, X become less popular in India</strong></h2>

<p>According to the annual report, the trust in news in India rose by three percentage points to 41 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, those surveyed expressed concerns about widespread misinformation via WhatsApp and other social media. Notably, India has the highest number of WhatsApp users in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For young Indians, according to the report, the main source of news is often social media platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly half of respondents use YouTube (54 per cent) and WhatsApp (48 per cent) for news each week. Meanwhile, the popularity of social media platforms like Facebook and X has dropped in India, according to the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, despite the general decline in news interest, newspapers (40 per cent) and television (46) remained popular platforms for accessing news for the respondents, particularly due to the general elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The world is in the midst of the biggest election year in history with a little over half of the population headed to the polls, but it is also facing an uncertain time with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war as well as the rise in tensions in the Middle East due to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The world is in the midst of the biggest election year in history with a little over half of the population headed to the polls, but it is also facing an uncertain time with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war as well as the rise in tensions in the Middle East due to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Amid this chaotic time, a growing number of people are selectively avoiding news calling it depressing, often repetitive and boring, according to a recent global study. Selected news avoidance at record-high According to a report by Oxford University’s Reuters Institute, as many as four in 10 (39 per cent) people said that they sometimes or often avoid the news. The annual Reuters Institute Digital News Report noted that while this has been a growing trend observed for years now, selected news avoidance is at its highest levels ever recorded. This year’s report is based on the responses collected from a total of 94,943 adults across 47 countries by YouGov in January and February. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, may have contributed to some of the record-high levels of news avoidance reported this time around, according to the Reuters Institute report. Also Read | Gaza war: US sets finger to trigger one of the biggest arms sales to Israel While the overall interest in news has somewhat stabilised this year, as per the report, the number of people who said that they selectively avoid the news was up by three percentage points to 39 per cent. Notably, this number is 10 percentage points higher than it was in 2017. The reason for this avoidance, as per the report, has not changed. People who say that they sometimes or often selectively avoid the news say it is often repetitive and boring. However, others told the researchers that the negative nature of the news makes them feel “anxious and powerless.” “You’ve had the pandemic (and) wars, so it’s a fairly natural reaction for people to turn away from the news, whether it’s to protect their mental health or simply wanting to get on with the rest of their lives,” the report’s lead author Nic Newman told BBC. Meanwhile, around 39 per cent said that the news is not only depressing but relentless and they feel “worn out” by the amount these days. Interest and trust in news Notably, the historic election year has reportedly led to an increased interest in the news with notable rises observed in a handful of countries including the United States. However, the long-term trend is mostly down in every country except Finland, according to the report. Overall, 46 per cent of people across the world said they are very or extremely interested in news. The number is down from the 63 per cent recorded in 2017. Women and young people make up a significant proportion of that decline, the Reuters report noted. The trust in news, according to the report, remained stable at 40 per cent, four points lower than it was at the height of the pandemic. People turn to social media According to the report, a majority of the respondents continued to identify platforms including social media, aggregators, and search engines as their main gateway to online news. However, only 22 per cent identified news websites or apps as their main source of online news. On the other hand, the audience for traditional news sources like newspapers or television has seen a sharp decline. Meanwhile, the report also noted a “strong shift” towards video-based platforms like YouTube and TikTok as well as Instagram. These platforms have become an important source of news since the COVID-19 pandemic. The growing popularity and reach of social media can no longer be ignored, with politicians taking to TikTok and other networks to reach young voters - from the new Argentinian President Javier Milei who runs a successful TikTok account with 2.2 million followers, to US President Joe Biden whose campaign sparked controversy by joining the popular social media app despite it being banned on most devices used by the American government over security concerns. However, YouTube and Facebook, according to the report remain the most important platforms for online news videos overall with the former being the go-to for those under 25. On the other hand, older viewers continued to watch their videos on news websites. The report noted that while mainstream media and journalists often lead conversations on X and Facebook, they fail to garner attention on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok where online influencers and celebrities are prominent. Concerns about misinformation, fake news While more people have turned to social media for news, a majority of people in this important year of elections have said they are concerned about the reliability of the content online. More than 50 countries across the world with a combined population of 4.2 billion are expected to hold national and/or local elections in 2024, making it the biggest election year in history. In the US, while interest in news, due to the election, has risen by five percentage points, around 72 per cent of people said they are concerned about what is real and what is fake on the internet when it comes to online news, according to the report. Also Read | Vivek Murthy calls for 'surgeon general's warning label' for child safety Similarly, in India, where the world’s largest general election recently concluded, 58 per cent of people shared the same concern. Overall, six in 10 people (59 per cent) said they are concerned about what is real and what is fake on the internet in the context of online news. Facebook, X become less popular in India According to the annual report, the trust in news in India rose by three percentage points to 41 per cent. Meanwhile, those surveyed expressed concerns about widespread misinformation via WhatsApp and other social media. Notably, India has the highest number of WhatsApp users in the world. For young Indians, according to the report, the main source of news is often social media platforms. Nearly half of respondents use YouTube (54 per cent) and WhatsApp (48 per cent) for news each week. Meanwhile, the popularity of social media platforms like Facebook and X has dropped in India, according to the report. Furthermore, despite the general decline in news interest, newspapers (40 per cent) and television (46) remained popular platforms for accessing news for the respondents, particularly due to the general elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: More people are avoiding news, turning to social media for information, finds study

The United States White House has accused Republicans of selectively editing videos as part of a "misinformation campaign" and this campaign of course was to make President Biden appear senile.

US Elections | Republicans attempting to make Biden seem senile: White House

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 including Nancy Pelosi arrives in Dharamshala to meet Dalai Lama

Imagine scrolling down your phone and seeing a warning label on your favorite social media app much like the ones on cigarette packs, it could soon become a reality. One of America's top health officials is calling for Action to protect young minds from the hidden dangers of social media. Watch in for more details!

US Surgeon General calls for warning labels on social media

Russia has officially offered India access to its advanced floating nuclear power plant (FNPP) technology, a move that could significantly impact India's energy landscape. WION's Senior correspondent Siddharth MP brings you this exclusive report from on board the world's first floating nuclear power plant.

India to buy Russia's floating nuclear plants?

Hours after the Kremlin said that the two-day peace Summit yielded no results, Russian forces continue to pound Ukraine. In the latest Russian missiles targeted Ukraine's East Central Poltava region on Monday. Watch in for more details!

Ukraine war | NATO Chief: China fueling the war in Ukraine, should change course

The US President Joe Biden and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg discussed the situation in Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific region during their meeting in Washington. Watch in for more details!

US President Joe Biden hosts NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg

Anti-government protesters took to the streets of Jerusalem on Monday, clashing with police near the house of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calling for new elections. Watch in for more details!

Thousands of Israelis take to the streets for anti-government protest

<p>India's nuclear arsenal is now bigger than Pakistan's, with a Swedish think tank claiming that New Delhi had expanded its stockpile to 172 warheads by January 2024. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said Pakistan's nuclear warheads were 170 in the same month. The report added both South Asian nations continued to expand their arsenal and nuclear delivery systems throughout the last year.</p>

<h2><strong>India's focus now on China</strong></h2>

<p>The SIPRI report also added that China was far ahead of India in the nuclear race, with its stockpile standing at 500 warheads in January 2024, up from 410 in January last year.</p>

<p>It added Beijing is continuously expanding its arsenal at the fastest rate in the world. It reported for the first time that China even had some warheads on high operational alert.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjeqLn10OSGAxX9j68BHZi6O7UQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-is-expanding-its-nuclear-arsenal-faster-than-any-country-report-732480" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-is-expanding-its-nuclear-arsenal-faster-than-any-country-report-732480&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjeqLn10OSGAxX9j68BHZi6O7UQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">China is expanding its nuclear arsenal faster than any country: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The report said while Pakistan remained the top focus of India's nuclear deterrence, the focus is now shifting to the northern neighbour. New Delhi now seems more eager to develop longer-range weapons, including those capable of reaching targets throughout China.</p>

<h2><strong>All states expanding their arsenal</strong></h2>

<p>Hans Kristensen of SIPRI was quoted by news agency PTI as saying that nearly all nuclear states are expanding their stockpile.</p>

<p>"But in nearly all the nuclear-armed states there are either plans or a significant push to increase nuclear forces," he said.</p>

<p>It said all nuclear states—the US, Russia, the UK, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel—continued to modernise and expand their nuclear-armed or nuclear-capable weapon systems in 2023. The report said the global stockpile of nuclear warheads was 12,121 in January 2024, of which 9,585 were in military stockpiles for potential use.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjeqLn10OSGAxX9j68BHZi6O7UQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mh370-mystery-signal-from-underground-nuclear-test-sensors-could-hold-a-clue-732734" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/mh370-mystery-signal-from-underground-nuclear-test-sensors-could-hold-a-clue-732734&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjeqLn10OSGAxX9j68BHZi6O7UQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">MH370 mystery: Signal from underground nuclear test sensors could hold a clue</a></strong></p>

<p>The report added Russia and the US possessed almost 90 per cent of the total global nuclear inventory.</p>

<p>"Russia is estimated to have deployed around 36 more warheads with operational forces than in January 2023," SIPRI said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's nuclear arsenal is now bigger than Pakistan's, with a Swedish think tank claiming that New Delhi had expanded its stockpile to 172 warheads by January 2024.

India's nuclear arsenal is now bigger than Pakistan's, with a Swedish think tank claiming that New Delhi had expanded its stockpile to 172 warheads by January 2024. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said Pakistan's nuclear warheads were 170 in the same month. The report added both South Asian nations continued to expand their arsenal and nuclear delivery systems throughout the last year. India's focus now on China The SIPRI report also added that China was far ahead of India in the nuclear race, with its stockpile standing at 500 warheads in January 2024, up from 410 in January last year. It added Beijing is continuously expanding its arsenal at the fastest rate in the world. It reported for the first time that China even had some warheads on high operational alert. Also read: China is expanding its nuclear arsenal faster than any country: Report The report said while Pakistan remained the top focus of India's nuclear deterrence, the focus is now shifting to the northern neighbour. New Delhi now seems more eager to develop longer-range weapons, including those capable of reaching targets throughout China. All states expanding their arsenal Hans Kristensen of SIPRI was quoted by news agency PTI as saying that nearly all nuclear states are expanding their stockpile. "But in nearly all the nuclear-armed states there are either plans or a significant push to increase nuclear forces," he said. It said all nuclear states—the US, Russia, the UK, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel—continued to modernise and expand their nuclear-armed or nuclear-capable weapon systems in 2023. The report said the global stockpile of nuclear warheads was 12,121 in January 2024, of which 9,585 were in military stockpiles for potential use. Also read: MH370 mystery: Signal from underground nuclear test sensors could hold a clue The report added Russia and the US possessed almost 90 per cent of the total global nuclear inventory. "Russia is estimated to have deployed around 36 more warheads with operational forces than in January 2023," SIPRI said. (With inputs from agencies)

India's nuclear arsenal now larger than Pakistan's, China far ahead: Report

China's National Meteorological Centre on Sunday issued an alert for high temperatures as multiple regions across the country experience sweltering heat, while many southern provinces issued severe flood warnings due to heavy rains.

China: Heat warning forecasts for Beijing & Xinjiang; heavy downpours in Fujian & Guangxi regions

<p>Scientists in Britain have detected a signal that could be instrumental in solving the mystery of the lost Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370. The researchers from Cardiff have used underwater microphones to pick up a signal that could finally help identify where the Boeing 777 aircraft lies.</p>

<p>The craft has been missing since March 8, 2014, when it suddenly disappeared with 239 people on board.</p>

<p>But it is certain that the crashing speed of a 200-tonne aircraft releases the kinetic energy equivalent to a small earthquake. Heard of Taylor Swift fans creating quakes by jumping at concerts? This was a full-fledged aircraft and a 200-tonne aircraft at that.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such a small earthquake is large enough to be recorded by hydrophones.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mh370-mystery-solved-expert-claims-to-have-found-aircraft-in-cambodian-jungle-using-google-maps-725682\">MH370 mystery solved? What's the truth behind expert's claim of locating aircraft in jungle using Google Maps</a></strong></p>

<p>At MH370 aircraft's way, there are two hydroacoustic stations able to detect such a signal; in Cape Leeuwin in Western Australia and in the British territory of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. Both of them were set up to oversee the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Both locations were operational around the time MH370 is believed to have crashed into the Indian Ocean.</p>

<p>Now the researchers at the Cardiff University have identified one signal that coincides with the narrow time frame when the aircraft could have crashed into the ocean on March 8. It was recorded at the Cape Leeuwin station. However, the same signal was not detected at the Diego Garcia station.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>"This raises questions about its origin," researcher Dr Usama Kadri, a reader of applied mathematics, was quoted as saying by The Telegraph.</p>

<p>It is not conclusive, but he said: "Given the sensitivity of hydrophones, it is highly unlikely a large aircraft impacting the ocean surface wouldn’t leave a detectable pressure signature, particularly on nearby hydrophones."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Mystery of MH370 flight: What really happened to Malaysia's missing airplane?</strong></p>

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<p>In 2015 and 2016, debris from the aircraft was washed ashore on several Indian Ocean islands and on the coast of Africa. A new search was launched in January 2018 but its findings remained inconclusive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists in Britain have detected a signal that could be instrumental in solving the mystery of the lost Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370. The researchers from Cardiff have used underwater microphones to pick up a signal that could finally help identify where the Boeing 777 aircraft lies.

Scientists in Britain have detected a signal that could be instrumental in solving the mystery of the lost Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370. The researchers from Cardiff have used underwater microphones to pick up a signal that could finally help identify where the Boeing 777 aircraft lies. The craft has been missing since March 8, 2014, when it suddenly disappeared with 239 people on board. But it is certain that the crashing speed of a 200-tonne aircraft releases the kinetic energy equivalent to a small earthquake. Heard of Taylor Swift fans creating quakes by jumping at concerts? This was a full-fledged aircraft and a 200-tonne aircraft at that. Such a small earthquake is large enough to be recorded by hydrophones. Also read | MH370 mystery solved? What's the truth behind expert's claim of locating aircraft in jungle using Google Maps At MH370 aircraft's way, there are two hydroacoustic stations able to detect such a signal; in Cape Leeuwin in Western Australia and in the British territory of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. Both of them were set up to oversee the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Both locations were operational around the time MH370 is believed to have crashed into the Indian Ocean. Now the researchers at the Cardiff University have identified one signal that coincides with the narrow time frame when the aircraft could have crashed into the ocean on March 8. It was recorded at the Cape Leeuwin station. However, the same signal was not detected at the Diego Garcia station. What does it mean? "This raises questions about its origin," researcher Dr Usama Kadri, a reader of applied mathematics, was quoted as saying by The Telegraph. It is not conclusive, but he said: "Given the sensitivity of hydrophones, it is highly unlikely a large aircraft impacting the ocean surface wouldn’t leave a detectable pressure signature, particularly on nearby hydrophones." Also watch | Mystery of MH370 flight: What really happened to Malaysia's missing airplane? × In 2015 and 2016, debris from the aircraft was washed ashore on several Indian Ocean islands and on the coast of Africa. A new search was launched in January 2018 but its findings remained inconclusive. (With inputs from agencies)

MH370 mystery: Signal from underground nuclear test sensors could hold clue to where plane went down

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid73wyNyB7cthK" /></p>

<p>Saudi Arabia's health ministry said on Monday (June 17) that it did not notice any extreme heat-related deaths among pilgrims performing Hajj this year. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, health ministry official Jameel Abualenain said, "Let's look at the population of the haj, the number of 'hajjies' (pilgrims) and their different comorbidities and the risky population, the elderly and those 'hajji' (pilgrims) some of them have different comorbidities, different illnesses and different compliance with the medication to start with."</p>

<p>"And as I mentioned with our well-developed medical staff, units, protocols, ambulance services, that provide of immediate management, we haven't noticed, thank God, any abnormal or deviation from the normal numbers of morbidities and mortalities,"&nbsp;Abualenain added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Reached over 27,000 pilgrims who suffered from heat illness'</strong></h2>

<p>Abualenain pointed out that so far, the ministry reached more than 27,000 pilgrims who suffered from heat illnesses, adding, "And just to mention in overall the health services that have been provided during this haj season, we have served more than 140,000 patients in the hospitals and different centres."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hajj-2024-turkish-pilgrim-undergoes-life-saving-brain-surgery-in-saudi-arabia-732439">Hajj 2024: Turkish pilgrim undergoes life-saving brain surgery in Saudi Arabia</a></strong></p>

<p>"From our risk assessments, we know that this season gonna be very hot. The weather is extremely hot and even before pilgrims arrive, we start our campaign by educating everyone about how to protect themselves, how to use umbrellas, how to keep themselves hydrated, how to avoid crowdedness and how to seek help and where to seek help as well," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Hajj pilgrimage ends amid heatwave</strong></h2>

<p>Abualenain's remarks came as Muslim pilgrims&nbsp;wrapped up the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;in searing conditions, with more than a dozen heat-related deaths confirmed, a report by the news agency AFP said.</p>

<p>On Sunday, Jordan said that 14 Jordanian pilgrims&nbsp;died "after suffering sunstroke due to the extreme heat wave", and that 17 others were "missing." Iran, meanwhile,&nbsp;reported the deaths of five pilgrims but did not specify the cause.</p>

<p>Senegal's foreign ministry said that three others had died. Indonesia&nbsp;said on Monday that 136 Indonesian pilgrims had died during the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;including at least three of heat stroke.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Saudi Arabia's health ministry said on Monday (June 17) that it did not notice any extreme heat-related deaths among pilgrims performing Hajj this year. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, health ministry official Jameel Abualenain said, "Let's look at the population of the haj, the number of 'hajjies' (pilgrims) and their different comorbidities and the risky population, the elderly and those 'hajji' (pilgrims) some of them have different comorbidities, different illnesses and different compliance with the medication to start with.

Saudi Arabia's health ministry said on Monday (June 17) that it did not notice any extreme heat-related deaths among pilgrims performing Hajj this year. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, health ministry official Jameel Abualenain said, "Let's look at the population of the haj, the number of 'hajjies' (pilgrims) and their different comorbidities and the risky population, the elderly and those 'hajji' (pilgrims) some of them have different comorbidities, different illnesses and different compliance with the medication to start with." "And as I mentioned with our well-developed medical staff, units, protocols, ambulance services, that provide of immediate management, we haven't noticed, thank God, any abnormal or deviation from the normal numbers of morbidities and mortalities," Abualenain added. 'Reached over 27,000 pilgrims who suffered from heat illness' Abualenain pointed out that so far, the ministry reached more than 27,000 pilgrims who suffered from heat illnesses, adding, "And just to mention in overall the health services that have been provided during this haj season, we have served more than 140,000 patients in the hospitals and different centres." Also read | Hajj 2024: Turkish pilgrim undergoes life-saving brain surgery in Saudi Arabia "From our risk assessments, we know that this season gonna be very hot. The weather is extremely hot and even before pilgrims arrive, we start our campaign by educating everyone about how to protect themselves, how to use umbrellas, how to keep themselves hydrated, how to avoid crowdedness and how to seek help and where to seek help as well," he added. Hajj pilgrimage ends amid heatwave Abualenain's remarks came as Muslim pilgrims wrapped up the hajj in searing conditions, with more than a dozen heat-related deaths confirmed, a report by the news agency AFP said. On Sunday, Jordan said that 14 Jordanian pilgrims died "after suffering sunstroke due to the extreme heat wave", and that 17 others were "missing." Iran, meanwhile, reported the deaths of five pilgrims but did not specify the cause. Senegal's foreign ministry said that three others had died. Indonesia said on Monday that 136 Indonesian pilgrims had died during the hajj including at least three of heat stroke. (With inputs from agencies)

Hajj 2024: Saudi Arabia says it didn't notice any extreme heat-related deaths among pilgrims

Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi arrives in Dharamshala to meet Dalai Lama

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