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George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Barack Obama were among those who attended a star-studded fundraiser for President Joe Biden. According to his re-election campaign, the event raised a record $30 million.

On Saturday night, several celebrities including Barbra Streisand and Julia Roberts took the stage at the 7,100-seat Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Jimmy Kimmel, the late-night host, interviewed Biden and former president Barack Obama who emphasised the importance of defeating former president Donald Trump in what is predicted to be an extremely tight contest.

To Kimmel's question about whether Americans were suffering from amnesia about the likely Republican candidate, Biden said, "All we gotta do is remember what it was like" while Trump was president.

A growing number of well-known figures in the entertainment industry have stepped up to support Biden's campaign. The Democratic president's decision to fly through the night from the G7 summit in southern Italy to Southern California indicates how crucial the event was to his reelection campaign.

When Kimmel asked President Biden what he was most proud of doing, he said that he believed the administration's economic strategy “is working”. “We have the strongest economy in the world today,” Biden said, stating, “We try to give ordinary people an even chance.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-no-choice-donald-trump-promises-largest-deportation-in-american-history-732318">'We have no choice': Donald Trump promises largest deportation in American history</a>

"Hopefully we have learned our lesson, because these elections matter in very concrete ways," Obama said, referring to the Supreme Court.

Three judges that Trump picked were instrumental in overturning Roe v. Wade, the historic ruling that upheld the constitutional right to an abortion. When the topic of Roe was brought up, the audience shouted their disapproval. Obama's response was, "Don't hiss, vote."

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the Biden team stated that even though they were still counting, the event on Saturday night raised over $30 million, the most ever for a Democratic candidate.

That means exceeding Biden's $26 million fundraiser held in March at Radio City Music Hall in New York, when late-night presenter Stephen Colbert conducted interviews with Biden, Obama&nbsp;and former president Bill Clinton.

(With inputs from agencies)

George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Barack Obama were among those who attended a star-studded fundraiser for President Joe Biden. According to his re-election campaign, the event raised a record $30 million.

George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Barack Obama were among those who attended a star-studded fundraiser for President Joe Biden. According to his re-election campaign, the event raised a record $30 million. On Saturday night, several celebrities including Barbra Streisand and Julia Roberts took the stage at the 7,100-seat Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Jimmy Kimmel, the late-night host, interviewed Biden and former president Barack Obama who emphasised the importance of defeating former president Donald Trump in what is predicted to be an extremely tight contest. To Kimmel's question about whether Americans were suffering from amnesia about the likely Republican candidate, Biden said, "All we gotta do is remember what it was like" while Trump was president. A growing number of well-known figures in the entertainment industry have stepped up to support Biden's campaign. The Democratic president's decision to fly through the night from the G7 summit in southern Italy to Southern California indicates how crucial the event was to his reelection campaign. When Kimmel asked President Biden what he was most proud of doing, he said that he believed the administration's economic strategy “is working”. “We have the strongest economy in the world today,” Biden said, stating, “We try to give ordinary people an even chance.” Also read: 'We have no choice': Donald Trump promises largest deportation in American history "Hopefully we have learned our lesson, because these elections matter in very concrete ways," Obama said, referring to the Supreme Court. Three judges that Trump picked were instrumental in overturning Roe v. Wade, the historic ruling that upheld the constitutional right to an abortion. When the topic of Roe was brought up, the audience shouted their disapproval. Obama's response was, "Don't hiss, vote." Meanwhile, the Biden team stated that even though they were still counting, the event on Saturday night raised over $30 million, the most ever for a Democratic candidate. That means exceeding Biden's $26 million fundraiser held in March at Radio City Music Hall in New York, when late-night presenter Stephen Colbert conducted interviews with Biden, Obama and former president Bill Clinton. (With inputs from agencies)

Star-studded fundraiser for Biden's re-election campaign sets record with $30 million raised

The developments from two European cities kept capitals around the world at work. First is Italy's Bari where the Group of Seven (or G7) countries held their 50th summit, and over 1,100 km northwest of Bari in the Swiss city of Bürgenstock where a summit billed as "peace summit" to end the war in Ukraine was held. The G7 consists of the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Canada, Japan&nbsp;and France, with&nbsp;the European Union also participating.

<img alt="distance" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9df48ed0-926c-4d13-98b8-5880e16a6903" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/capitals%20%282%29.png" />

Google Maps | Not to scale

In Bari, the&nbsp;leaders "launched the G7 Coalition to prevent and counter the smuggling of migrants".&nbsp;The summit’s final declaration noted&nbsp;that the seven nations would "focus on the root causes of irregular migration, efforts to enhance border management and curb transnational organised crime, and safe and regular pathways for migration."

But 28 months into the war in Ukraine, the top takeaway from the G7 summit remains a consensus on using frozen Russian assets in the Western countries to fund a $50bn loan to Ukraine. Kyiv hailed the move as “a vital step forward in providing sustainable support for Ukraine in winning this war”.

But just hours after that announcement, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman vowed&nbsp;that there would be “extremely painful” measures in retaliation. Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced it as "theft".&nbsp;

In Switzerland, the peace summit to end war in Ukraine that did not include Russia as a participant failed to&nbsp;persuade major countries from the "global South" to join in isolating Russia. My colleague and WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal has reported on it in detail here.

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BRICS position at Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland: 
🇧🇷Brazil: 
Observer (Envoy), not part of statement 
🇷🇺Russia: 
Not invited 
🇮🇳India: 
Present at Minister level, not part of statement 
🇨🇳China: 
Gave a miss 
🇿🇦South Africa: 
Envoy level, not part of statement <a href="https://t.co/GbFp6wnZZl">https://t.co/GbFp6wnZZl</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1802332655511613729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Big Breaking: India wont be part of the joint communique of Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland, says MEA's secretary west Pavan Kapoor <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbKapoor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmbKapoor</a> who is representing India at the summit; Says, "Options acceptable to both parties can lead to abiding peace" 
 
Full speech: <a href="https://t.co/0Rj6IQlB68">pic.twitter.com/0Rj6IQlB68</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1802303136222073248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Read more in The Capitals this weekend:

<h2>Cape Town, South Africa</h2>

The Capitals in recent months has reported about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-pretoria-new-delhi-lead-africas-ascent-in-global-diplomacy-605796">Pretoria</a> as one of the power centers of South Africa. But do you know why we have Cape Town in the spotlight this weekend?

Well, this is because as a country with one of the most decentralised power structures, South Africa has three capitals. Pretoria in the country's north serves as&nbsp;the administrative capital. About 1,500 km south,&nbsp;Cape Town is the seat of the parliament. Bloemfontein, about 450 km from South Africa, is&nbsp;regarded as the judicial capital. But&nbsp;the country's highest court is located in Johannesburg, a short drive outside Pretoria.&nbsp;

Since the crisis in South Africa was over the African National Congress's loss of parliamentary majority in the recently held elections, the capital in the spotlight is Cape Town.&nbsp;

On Friday (June 14), President Cyril Ramaphosa was&nbsp;re-elected as South Africa's president after brokering a deal with the opposition for a government of national unity after his African National Congress's worst election result since the end of Apartheid.

Ramaphosa clinched a deal with the opposition, white-led Democratic Alliance and at least two other smaller parties as the National Assembly held its first sitting since the election and elected Ramaphosa as the leader.&nbsp;

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My Acceptance Statement during the First Sitting of the National Assembly of the 7th Parliament. <a href="https://t.co/gmJ0LPylJf">pic.twitter.com/gmJ0LPylJf</a>
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) <a href="https://twitter.com/CyrilRamaphosa/status/1801938773007045032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The accord has allowed President Cyril Ramaphosa to win a second term in power. He was re-elected with 283 votes

Once unthinkable, the accord allowed President Cyril Ramaphosa to win a second term in office. He was re-elected by lawmakers with 283 votes in the 400-member National Assembly.

The deal between two sharply antagonistic parties is the most significant&nbsp;political shift in South Africa since Nelson Mandela led the ANC to victory in the 1994 election that marked the end of apartheid.

<h2>Yerevan, Armenia</h2>

In a major setback to Moscow's influence in the countries of the former Soviet Republic, Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan confirmed that Yerevan is freezing its participation in the&nbsp;Russia-led military alliance&nbsp;Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). PM Pashinyan accused the alliance of failing to protect Yerevan's interests&nbsp;from resurgent Azerbaijani aggression.&nbsp;Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Armenia and Azerbaijan have fought two wars over the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region, which Azerbaijan occupied&nbsp;in September 2022. Moscow has traditionally allied with Armenia, but their relations ties have soured in recent months while Moscow’s ties to Azerbaijan have deepened.

Prime Minister Pashinyan told parliamentarians earlier this week that Armenia&nbsp;had “frozen” its participation in the CSTO and would leave the bloc at a time of Armenia’s choosing.

<h2>Paris, France</h2>

French President Emmanuel Macron announced snap elections following a massive loss for his Renaissance party in the European Parliament election. Macron's decision is set to reconstitute corridors of power in Paris amid a resurgent&nbsp;National Rally of far-right leader Marine Le Penn.&nbsp;The first round is scheduled for June 30 and the run-off is on July 7, just three days after July 4 elections in the UK. That's a packed election schedule for Europe in the immediate future.&nbsp;

<h2>Tokyo, Japan</h2>

Can you force a real estate firm to take down a property because it hides the picturesque view that was previously visible? Well, a major Japanese developer Sekisui House Limited announced that it will demolish a nearly complete condominium in western Tokyo after nearby residents complained the building partially blocks the view of the iconic Mount Fuji.&nbsp;

The Osaka-based company will take down the 10-storey building&nbsp;due to "insufficient consideration for the impact on the scenery." A major win for Tokyo's citizenry here.&nbsp;

The developments from two European cities kept capitals around the world at work. First is Italy's Bari where the Group of Seven (or G7) countries held their 50th summit, and over 1,100 km northwest of Bari in the Swiss city of Bürgenstock where a summit billed as "peace summit" to end the war in Ukraine was held.

The developments from two European cities kept capitals around the world at work. First is Italy's Bari where the Group of Seven (or G7) countries held their 50th summit, and over 1,100 km northwest of Bari in the Swiss city of Bürgenstock where a summit billed as "peace summit" to end the war in Ukraine was held. The G7 consists of the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Canada, Japan and France, with the European Union also participating. Google Maps | Not to scale In Bari, the leaders "launched the G7 Coalition to prevent and counter the smuggling of migrants". The summit’s final declaration noted that the seven nations would "focus on the root causes of irregular migration, efforts to enhance border management and curb transnational organised crime, and safe and regular pathways for migration." But 28 months into the war in Ukraine, the top takeaway from the G7 summit remains a consensus on using frozen Russian assets in the Western countries to fund a $50bn loan to Ukraine. Kyiv hailed the move as “a vital step forward in providing sustainable support for Ukraine in winning this war”. But just hours after that announcement, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman vowed that there would be “extremely painful” measures in retaliation. Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced it as "theft". In Switzerland, the peace summit to end war in Ukraine that did not include Russia as a participant failed to persuade major countries from the "global South" to join in isolating Russia. My colleague and WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal has reported on it in detail here. BRICS position at Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland: 🇧🇷Brazil: Observer (Envoy), not part of statement 🇷🇺Russia: Not invited 🇮🇳India: Present at Minister level, not part of statement 🇨🇳China: Gave a miss 🇿🇦South Africa: Envoy level, not part of statement https://t.co/GbFp6wnZZl — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 16, 2024 × Big Breaking: India wont be part of the joint communique of Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland, says MEA's secretary west Pavan Kapoor @AmbKapoor who is representing India at the summit; Says, "Options acceptable to both parties can lead to abiding peace" Full speech: pic.twitter.com/0Rj6IQlB68 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 16, 2024 × Read more in The Capitals this weekend: Cape Town, South Africa The Capitals in recent months has reported about Pretoria as one of the power centers of South Africa. But do you know why we have Cape Town in the spotlight this weekend? Well, this is because as a country with one of the most decentralised power structures, South Africa has three capitals. Pretoria in the country's north serves as the administrative capital. About 1,500 km south, Cape Town is the seat of the parliament. Bloemfontein, about 450 km from South Africa, is regarded as the judicial capital. But the country's highest court is located in Johannesburg, a short drive outside Pretoria. Since the crisis in South Africa was over the African National Congress's loss of parliamentary majority in the recently held elections, the capital in the spotlight is Cape Town. On Friday (June 14), President Cyril Ramaphosa was re-elected as South Africa's president after brokering a deal with the opposition for a government of national unity after his African National Congress's worst election result since the end of Apartheid. Ramaphosa clinched a deal with the opposition, white-led Democratic Alliance and at least two other smaller parties as the National Assembly held its first sitting since the election and elected Ramaphosa as the leader. My Acceptance Statement during the First Sitting of the National Assembly of the 7th Parliament. pic.twitter.com/gmJ0LPylJf — Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) June 15, 2024 × The accord has allowed President Cyril Ramaphosa to win a second term in power. He was re-elected with 283 votes Once unthinkable, the accord allowed President Cyril Ramaphosa to win a second term in office. He was re-elected by lawmakers with 283 votes in the 400-member National Assembly. The deal between two sharply antagonistic parties is the most significant political shift in South Africa since Nelson Mandela led the ANC to victory in the 1994 election that marked the end of apartheid. Yerevan, Armenia In a major setback to Moscow's influence in the countries of the former Soviet Republic, Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan confirmed that Yerevan is freezing its participation in the Russia-led military alliance Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). PM Pashinyan accused the alliance of failing to protect Yerevan's interests from resurgent Azerbaijani aggression. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Armenia and Azerbaijan have fought two wars over the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region, which Azerbaijan occupied in September 2022. Moscow has traditionally allied with Armenia, but their relations ties have soured in recent months while Moscow’s ties to Azerbaijan have deepened. Prime Minister Pashinyan told parliamentarians earlier this week that Armenia had “frozen” its participation in the CSTO and would leave the bloc at a time of Armenia’s choosing. Paris, France French President Emmanuel Macron announced snap elections following a massive loss for his Renaissance party in the European Parliament election. Macron's decision is set to reconstitute corridors of power in Paris amid a resurgent National Rally of far-right leader Marine Le Penn. The first round is scheduled for June 30 and the run-off is on July 7, just three days after July 4 elections in the UK. That's a packed election schedule for Europe in the immediate future. Tokyo, Japan Can you force a real estate firm to take down a property because it hides the picturesque view that was previously visible? Well, a major Japanese developer Sekisui House Limited announced that it will demolish a nearly complete condominium in western Tokyo after nearby residents complained the building partially blocks the view of the iconic Mount Fuji. The Osaka-based company will take down the 10-storey building due to "insufficient consideration for the impact on the scenery." A major win for Tokyo's citizenry here.

The Capitals: Kyiv tests its diplomatic capital against Moscow; and more

Former French President François Hollande has announced his candidacy for a seat in the National Assembly in the upcoming parliamentary elections.

France: Former President Francois Hollande announces surprise candidacy

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has recorded campaign videos for a number of his Tory MP supporters and has yet again snubbed Rishi Sunak. He has warned that the Tories are likely heading for a total bloodbath if Sunak remained in charge.

UK poll predictions: Tories headed towards a 'wipe-out', Labour to win 262-seat majority

An Israeli airstrike on the Bureij refugee camp and Maghazi refugee camp in Gaza resulted in 15 deaths, including 13-year-old Rafeef Alsaidi and the elderly Abdelshafi Hussein. These attacks have continued unabated as Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant pledged the war will go on.&nbsp;

“At the border of the Gaza Strip, together with the desert patrol battalion, [Israeli forces] continue to fight… and are sent to appropriate missions in every sector in the air, at sea and on land,” Gallant stated.

EU’s top diplomat Josep Borrell has warned of the increasing threat posed by Houthi militia attacks on commercial vessels off Yemen. “The Houthis keep threatening freedom of navigation in the #RedSea,” Borrell posted on X.

The EU military operation in the region, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, the EU chief said, is committed to keeping international waters safe.

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In response to the ongoing conflict, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that the Islamic world is observing Eid al-Adha with sadness due to Israel's actions in Gaza.

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Meanwhile, the UN has welcomed Israel’s “tactical pause” in military operations along a southern Gaza aid corridor but urged further measures to ensure humanitarian aid reaches the besieged population.

<h2>Draft bill gets backing&nbsp;</h2>

The Israeli government has thrown its support behind a draft bill to raise the retirement age for IDF reservists. This legislative move comes at a time when the nation is deeply embroiled in the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, a war that has already claimed the lives of at least 37,296 people, mostly civilians, according to Gaza's health ministry.

The Ministerial Committee for Legislation has approved a three-month extension, but the bill must still pass three readings in the Knesset to become law.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gun-laws-in-the-us-a-divisive-campaign-issue-732323">Gun laws in the US: A divisive campaign issue</a>

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Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid criticised the government, stating, “The reservists and taxpayers are collapsing and Netanyahu and the extremists put the burden on them and continue to evade responsibility and smile."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israel’s High Court has issued an interim order to suspend State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman’s investigation into the failings of the October 7 attack&nbsp;pending a July hearing. This suspension comes after classified responses from security agencies.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Israeli airstrike on the Bureij refugee camp and Maghazi refugee camp in Gaza resulted in 15 deaths, including 13-year-old Rafeef Alsaidi and the elderly Abdelshafi Hussein.

An Israeli airstrike on the Bureij refugee camp and Maghazi refugee camp in Gaza resulted in 15 deaths, including 13-year-old Rafeef Alsaidi and the elderly Abdelshafi Hussein. These attacks have continued unabated as Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant pledged the war will go on. “At the border of the Gaza Strip, together with the desert patrol battalion, [Israeli forces] continue to fight… and are sent to appropriate missions in every sector in the air, at sea and on land,” Gallant stated. EU’s top diplomat Josep Borrell has warned of the increasing threat posed by Houthi militia attacks on commercial vessels off Yemen. “The Houthis keep threatening freedom of navigation in the #RedSea,” Borrell posted on X. The EU military operation in the region, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, the EU chief said, is committed to keeping international waters safe. Also Read | 'We have no choice': Donald Trump promises largest deportation in American history In response to the ongoing conflict, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that the Islamic world is observing Eid al-Adha with sadness due to Israel's actions in Gaza. Also Read | Philippines envoy Ignacio: Defence ties with India flourishing amid growing partnership Meanwhile, the UN has welcomed Israel’s “tactical pause” in military operations along a southern Gaza aid corridor but urged further measures to ensure humanitarian aid reaches the besieged population. Draft bill gets backing The Israeli government has thrown its support behind a draft bill to raise the retirement age for IDF reservists. This legislative move comes at a time when the nation is deeply embroiled in the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, a war that has already claimed the lives of at least 37,296 people, mostly civilians, according to Gaza's health ministry. The Ministerial Committee for Legislation has approved a three-month extension, but the bill must still pass three readings in the Knesset to become law. Watch | Gun laws in the US: A divisive campaign issue × Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid criticised the government, stating, “The reservists and taxpayers are collapsing and Netanyahu and the extremists put the burden on them and continue to evade responsibility and smile." Meanwhile, Israel’s High Court has issued an interim order to suspend State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman’s investigation into the failings of the October 7 attack pending a July hearing. This suspension comes after classified responses from security agencies. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 15 killed in Israeli airstrikes on Bureij and Maghazi refugee camps in Gaza

At least 19 Jordanian and Iranian pilgrims died while on the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, authorities from both countries said on Sunday (June 16). In a statement, Jordan's foreign ministry said that 14 pilgrims died and 17 others were missing during the performance of Hajj.

At least 19 Jordanian and Iranian pilgrims died while on the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, authorities from both countries said on Sunday (June 16). In a statement, Jordan's foreign ministry said that 14 pilgrims died and 17 others were missing during the performance of Hajj. The reason behind the 14 pilgrims dying was earlier not known until the ministry confirmed that they died "after suffering sunstroke due to the extreme heat wave." Meanwhile, Iranian Red Crescent chief Pirhossein Koolivand said that five pilgrims died in Mecca and Medina. The reason behind these deaths was not yet known. So far, Saudi Arabia has not commented on the 19 deaths, a report by the news agency AFP said. Hajj, one of the world's biggest religious gatherings, is one of the five pillars of Islam, and all Muslims with the means must perform it at least once. Temperatures well past 40°C AFP reported that temperatures in Saudi Arabia have pushed well past 40 degrees Celsius during the Hajj this year. Around 1.8 million Muslims are taking part in the annual pilgrimage this time. Authorities in Saudi Arabia have implemented heat mitigation measures, including climate-controlled areas. They also distribute water and offer advice to pilgrims on protecting themselves from the sun. At least 240 pilgrims died in 2023 In the 2023 Hajj, at least 240 people - mostly from Indonesia - died, as per figures announced by various countries, who also did not specify the cause of the deaths. Earlier this week, a Saudi official told AFP that more than 10,000 heat-related illnesses were recorded last year, 10 per cent of them being heat stroke. (With inputs from agencies)

Hajj 2024: At least 19 Jordanian and Iranian pilgrims die in Saudi Arabia as temperatures soar

The Philippines’ National Security Council (NSC) said Monday evening (June 17)&nbsp;that China used “dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and towing,” to interfere with&nbsp;a routine resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea.

This comes 12 hours after China claimed a&nbsp;Philippine supply ship dangerously approached a Chinese vessel and slightly collided with Beijing’s ship after it illegally intruded into waters adjacent to the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. Responding to these allegations,&nbsp;Manila had earlier said it would not "dignify" the "misleading" claims made by Beijing.

The Chinese coast guard reported a collision between a Philippine ship and a Chinese vessel, on Monday, near the Spratly Islands in the disputed South China Sea.&nbsp;

The reported incident&nbsp;comes days after Beijing introduced new rules which would allow the Chinese coast guard to detain foreigners&nbsp;for trespassing in the disputed South China Sea without trial for 60 days. &nbsp;

According to the statement by the Chinese coast guard, the Philippine vessel deliberately and dangerously approached the Chinese ship in an “unprofessional way,” resulting in a collision.&nbsp;

However, it made no mention of any injuries or damage to either of the vessels.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-detain-foreigners-for-trespassing-in-disputed-south-china-sea-731991">China can detain foreigners for trespassing in disputed South China Sea</a>

The Philippine ship “illegally broke into the sea near Ren’ai Reef in China’s Nansha Islands,” said the Chinese coast guard, using Beijing’s official term for the Spratly Islands.

It added, “The Philippine replenishment ship ignored many solemn warnings from the Chinese side.”&nbsp;

“The Chinese Coast Guard took control measures against the Philippine ship in accordance with the law,” said the statement by Beijing’s coast guard without elaborating.&nbsp;

<h2>Manila responds</h2>

The Philippines later responded to the claims made by the Chinese coast guard in a sharply worded statement and said&nbsp;it would "not dignify the deceptive and misleading claims of the China Coast Guard".

"The main issue remains...the illegal presence and actions of Chinese vessels within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, which infringes on our sovereignty and sovereign rights," the Armed Forces of the Philippines said in a statement.

It added, "The continued aggressive actions of the CCG are escalating tensions in the region."&nbsp;

<h2>China’s new rules for South China Sea</h2>

In recent months, China and the Philippines have traded accusations over dangerous manoeuvres and collisions at the Second Thomas Shoal, which hosts a garrison of Philippine troops on a grounded navy vessel to assert Manila’s claims to the waters.&nbsp;

Beijing has claimed almost the entirety of the South China Sea as a part of its territory despite an international ruling that its stance has no legal basis.&nbsp;

Manila repeatedly accused the Chinese coast guard of “barbaric and inhumane behaviour” against Philippine vessels.&nbsp;

Last week, Beijing announced new rules, which went into effect on Friday (Jun 15), in line with which the Chinese coast guard can detain foreigners for trespassing in the disputed South China Sea.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-top-updates-israels-tactical-pause-bureij-refugee-camp-strikes-more-732333">At least 15 killed in Israeli airstrikes on Bureij and Maghazi refugee camps in Gaza</a>

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos has called the new rules a “very worrisome” escalation.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Philippine military chief, on Friday (Jun 14) urged Filipino fishermen to keep fishing in the country’s exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea and told them “not to be afraid”.&nbsp;

He added, “We have the right to exploit the resources in the area so our fishermen have no reason to be afraid.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Philippines’ National Security Council (NSC) said Monday evening (June 17) that China used “dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and towing,” to interfere with a routine resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippines’ National Security Council (NSC) said Monday evening (June 17) that China used “dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and towing,” to interfere with a routine resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea. This comes 12 hours after China claimed a Philippine supply ship dangerously approached a Chinese vessel and slightly collided with Beijing’s ship after it illegally intruded into waters adjacent to the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. Responding to these allegations, Manila had earlier said it would not "dignify" the "misleading" claims made by Beijing. The Chinese coast guard reported a collision between a Philippine ship and a Chinese vessel, on Monday, near the Spratly Islands in the disputed South China Sea. The reported incident comes days after Beijing introduced new rules which would allow the Chinese coast guard to detain foreigners for trespassing in the disputed South China Sea without trial for 60 days. According to the statement by the Chinese coast guard, the Philippine vessel deliberately and dangerously approached the Chinese ship in an “unprofessional way,” resulting in a collision. However, it made no mention of any injuries or damage to either of the vessels. Also Read | China can detain foreigners for trespassing in disputed South China Sea The Philippine ship “illegally broke into the sea near Ren’ai Reef in China’s Nansha Islands,” said the Chinese coast guard, using Beijing’s official term for the Spratly Islands. It added, “The Philippine replenishment ship ignored many solemn warnings from the Chinese side.” “The Chinese Coast Guard took control measures against the Philippine ship in accordance with the law,” said the statement by Beijing’s coast guard without elaborating. Manila responds The Philippines later responded to the claims made by the Chinese coast guard in a sharply worded statement and said it would "not dignify the deceptive and misleading claims of the China Coast Guard". "The main issue remains...the illegal presence and actions of Chinese vessels within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, which infringes on our sovereignty and sovereign rights," the Armed Forces of the Philippines said in a statement. It added, "The continued aggressive actions of the CCG are escalating tensions in the region." China’s new rules for South China Sea In recent months, China and the Philippines have traded accusations over dangerous manoeuvres and collisions at the Second Thomas Shoal, which hosts a garrison of Philippine troops on a grounded navy vessel to assert Manila’s claims to the waters. Beijing has claimed almost the entirety of the South China Sea as a part of its territory despite an international ruling that its stance has no legal basis. Manila repeatedly accused the Chinese coast guard of “barbaric and inhumane behaviour” against Philippine vessels. Last week, Beijing announced new rules, which went into effect on Friday (Jun 15), in line with which the Chinese coast guard can detain foreigners for trespassing in the disputed South China Sea. Also Read | At least 15 killed in Israeli airstrikes on Bureij and Maghazi refugee camps in Gaza Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos has called the new rules a “very worrisome” escalation. Meanwhile, the Philippine military chief, on Friday (Jun 14) urged Filipino fishermen to keep fishing in the country’s exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea and told them “not to be afraid”. He added, “We have the right to exploit the resources in the area so our fishermen have no reason to be afraid.” (With inputs from agencies)

China used 'dangerous maneuvers' to harass Philippine supply ship in South China Sea

NATO is in talks to deploy more nuclear weapons, taking them out of storage and placing them on standby, in the face of a growing threat from Russia and China, the head of the alliance Jens Stoltenberg said on Monday. Watch in for more details!

NATO in talks to put nuclear weapons on standby

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticised plans announced by the military to hold daily tactical pauses in fighting. This was along one of the main roads into Gaza to facilitate aid delivery into the Palestinian. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Rift between Netanyahu & military widens?

Israel-Hamas War: Israel's war cabinet dissolved following Benny Gantz's exit

Ukraine would hold peace talks “tomorrow” if Russia pulls out of all Ukrainian territory, Volodymyr Zelensky has said at a peace summit in Switzerland. Watch in for more details!

Zelensky: Peace talks tomorrow if Russia leaves Ukraine

German police said they shot and wounded a man who was threatening them with an ax and a Molotov cocktail in the northern city of Hamburg. Watch to know more.

Euro 2024: Hamburg police shoot axe attack suspect at fan parade in Germany

China hit back on Monday after G7 leaders warned Beijing to stop sending weapons components to Russia, saying their end-of-summit statement was "full of arrogance, prejudice and lies". Watch in for more details!

China terms G7 statement 'full of prejudice, arrogance and lies'

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets across France on Saturday (Jun 15) to protest against the far-right National Rally (RN) party ahead of the upcoming snap parliamentary elections. The protests were joined by labour unions as well as student groups and rights groups to oppose the anti-immigration, eurosceptic party.

France elections: Thousands gather to protest against surge of far right

Greek authorities have been accused of pushing asylum seekers and migrants to their deaths in the Mediterranean Sea over the last three years, according to an investigation by UK broadcaster BBC. The report, based on statements by witnesses, reveals more than 40 people have died following illegal pushbacks by Greek coastguard from Greek islands or waters. In a few cases, migrants were thrown in water allegedly with their hands tied, the report claimed.

<h2>Migrants put on punctured rafts</h2>

BBC analysed 15 such incidents that took place between May 2020 and 2023 that ended up killing 43 people in and around Greek waters.

It found that migrants were directly thrown into the sea in at least five incidents. In four cases, the migrants were put on punctured and sinking inflatable rafts without motors.

"They wanted me to die,” BBC quoted a Somalian man who was caught by Greek authorities on the island of Chios as saying. “They threw me zip-tied in the middle of the sea," he added.

A Syrian man, Mohamed, told the broadcaster that&nbsp;Greek authorities had left "seven to eight" children to die on a sinking raft in September 2020.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj-tdLJxOKGAxXLb2wGHWBaC484ChDF9AEoAHoECAcQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-greece-wants-to-be-the-gateway-of-india-into-europe-minister-tells-wion-692892" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-greece-wants-to-be-the-gateway-of-india-into-europe-minister-tells-wion-692892&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj-tdLJxOKGAxXLb2wGHWBaC484ChDF9AEoAHoECAcQAQ">Exclusive: Greece wants to be the gateway of India into Europe, minister tells WION</a>

Mohamed himself was dropped in Turkish waters after being put in life rafts, only to discover later that the raft was sinking as its valve was not closed properly.

“They heard us all screaming, and yet they still left us,” he was quoted as saying by BBC.

“The first child who died was my cousin’s son… After that it was one by one. Another child, another child, then my cousin himself disappeared. By the morning seven or eight children had died.

“My kids didn’t die until the morning… right before the Turkish coastguard arrived.”

<h2>Undercover agents</h2>

Migrants are legally entitled to seek asylum in Greece, and special centres have been erected on several Greek islands to help migrants register their claims.

Watch:&nbsp;Greece migrant boat tragedy: A survivor's tale of 2023 boat disaster

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However, in the incidents analysed by BBC, all of the migrants were caught before they could reach these special centres by non-uniformed, masked and apparently undercover agents.

<h2>Response by Greek Coastguard</h2>

Greek Coastguard has vehemently denied these claims. It highlighted how it rescued 250,834 refugees/migrants in 6,161 incidents at sea in the past nine years.

“It should be highlighted that from 2015 to 2024, the Hellenic Coast Guard has rescued 250,834 refugees/migrants in 6,161 incidents at sea. The impeccable execution of this noble mission has been positively recognised by the international community,” the coastguard said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Greek authorities have been accused of pushing asylum seekers and migrants to their deaths in the Mediterranean Sea over the last three years, according to an investigation by UK broadcaster BBC.

Greek authorities have been accused of pushing asylum seekers and migrants to their deaths in the Mediterranean Sea over the last three years, according to an investigation by UK broadcaster BBC. The report, based on statements by witnesses, reveals more than 40 people have died following illegal pushbacks by Greek coastguard from Greek islands or waters. In a few cases, migrants were thrown in water allegedly with their hands tied, the report claimed. Migrants put on punctured rafts BBC analysed 15 such incidents that took place between May 2020 and 2023 that ended up killing 43 people in and around Greek waters. It found that migrants were directly thrown into the sea in at least five incidents. In four cases, the migrants were put on punctured and sinking inflatable rafts without motors. "They wanted me to die,” BBC quoted a Somalian man who was caught by Greek authorities on the island of Chios as saying. “They threw me zip-tied in the middle of the sea," he added. A Syrian man, Mohamed, told the broadcaster that Greek authorities had left "seven to eight" children to die on a sinking raft in September 2020. Also read: Exclusive: Greece wants to be the gateway of India into Europe, minister tells WION Mohamed himself was dropped in Turkish waters after being put in life rafts, only to discover later that the raft was sinking as its valve was not closed properly. “They heard us all screaming, and yet they still left us,” he was quoted as saying by BBC. “The first child who died was my cousin’s son… After that it was one by one. Another child, another child, then my cousin himself disappeared. By the morning seven or eight children had died. “My kids didn’t die until the morning… right before the Turkish coastguard arrived.” Undercover agents Migrants are legally entitled to seek asylum in Greece, and special centres have been erected on several Greek islands to help migrants register their claims. Watch: Greece migrant boat tragedy: A survivor's tale of 2023 boat disaster × However, in the incidents analysed by BBC, all of the migrants were caught before they could reach these special centres by non-uniformed, masked and apparently undercover agents. Response by Greek Coastguard Greek Coastguard has vehemently denied these claims. It highlighted how it rescued 250,834 refugees/migrants in 6,161 incidents at sea in the past nine years. “It should be highlighted that from 2015 to 2024, the Hellenic Coast Guard has rescued 250,834 refugees/migrants in 6,161 incidents at sea. The impeccable execution of this noble mission has been positively recognised by the international community,” the coastguard said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Greek coastguard threw migrants into sea after tying their hands: Report

The People's Liberation Army a Navy marked the 70th anniversary of its submarine Force by conducting torpedo strike on a retired ship. In a rare glimpse Chinese Navy's type 074 high class amphibious landing ship was struck during a sinking exercise called SINKEX. Watch in for more details!

China's PLAN marks 70th anniversary of its submarine force

In the first trip to India by a senior American official after the Modi government came to power for the third term, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is in New Delhi on Monday for the second meeting of the initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). His visit marks the second meeting of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies. He has also met his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval and external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar. Watch in for more details!

US-India iCET meet: US NSA Sullivan scheduled to meet PM Modi

European Union countries approved a flagship policy to restore damaged nature on Monday (June 17), after months of delay, making it the first green law to pass since European Parliament elections this month.

The nature restoration law is among the EU's biggest environmental policies, requiring member states to introduce measures restoring nature on a fifth of their land and sea by 2030.

EU countries' environment ministers backed the policy at a meeting in Luxembourg, meaning it can now pass into law.

The vote was held after Austria's environment minister, Leonore Gewessler of the Greens, defied her conservative coalition partners by pledging to back the policy - giving it just enough support to pass.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greek-coastguard-threw-migrants-into-sea-after-tying-their-hands-report-732521">Greek coastguard threw migrants into sea after tying their hands: Report</a>

The policy aims to reverse the decline of Europe's natural habitats - 81% of which are classed as being in poor health - and includes specific targets, for example to restore peat lands so they can absorb CO2 emissions.

EU countries and the European Parliament negotiated a deal on the law last year but it has come under fire from some governments in recent months amid protests by farmers angry at costly EU regulations.

EU countries had planned to approve the policy in March but called off the vote after Hungary unexpectedly withdrew its support, wiping out the slim majority in favour.

European Union countries approved a flagship policy to restore damaged nature on Monday (June 17), after months of delay, making it the first green law to pass since European Parliament elections this month.

European Union countries approved a flagship policy to restore damaged nature on Monday (June 17), after months of delay, making it the first green law to pass since European Parliament elections this month. The nature restoration law is among the EU's biggest environmental policies, requiring member states to introduce measures restoring nature on a fifth of their land and sea by 2030. EU countries' environment ministers backed the policy at a meeting in Luxembourg, meaning it can now pass into law. The vote was held after Austria's environment minister, Leonore Gewessler of the Greens, defied her conservative coalition partners by pledging to back the policy - giving it just enough support to pass. Also read: Greek coastguard threw migrants into sea after tying their hands: Report The policy aims to reverse the decline of Europe's natural habitats - 81% of which are classed as being in poor health - and includes specific targets, for example to restore peat lands so they can absorb CO2 emissions. EU countries and the European Parliament negotiated a deal on the law last year but it has come under fire from some governments in recent months amid protests by farmers angry at costly EU regulations. EU countries had planned to approve the policy in March but called off the vote after Hungary unexpectedly withdrew its support, wiping out the slim majority in favour.

EU countries approve landmark nature law after delays

Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu denounces tactical pauses by military in Gaza fighting to get in aid

Delhiites faced extreme weather conditions on Saturday, with Ayanagar recording a scorching 46°C, marking the highest temperature in the capital.

India's capital records second warmest night in six years

NATO is adapting its nuclear Arsenal in the face of security threats from Russia and China. NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg called for the block to display its stockpile to the world and send a direct message. Expenditure on nuclear weapons has also increased. Expenditure on Warheads is estimated to have risen by 13% to record 91.4 billion dollar in 2023 as per the survey by the International campaign to abolish nuclear weapons. Watch in for more details!

NATO to put nuclear weapons on standby?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dissolved the six-member war cabinet set up to manage the country's war with Hamas since the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group. Local media reported Monday (Jun 17) that Netanyahu announced the decision Sunday evening in a meeting of the political security cabinet. This comes after Netanyahu's allies demanded a new war cabinet be established after Benny Gantz, a centrist leader, exited the emergency government.

Among those who demanded a new war cabinet be created are Nationalist-religious Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and hardliner National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The latter is of the view that the Jewish nation must continue its offensive in Gaza, resisting pressure from the world community.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwivnq6EuuKGAxWEcmwGHTb4AiAQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-cabinet-minister-benny-gantz-quits-government-730338" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-cabinet-minister-benny-gantz-quits-government-730338&amp;ved=2ahUKEwivnq6EuuKGAxWEcmwGHTb4AiAQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Benny Gantz quits from Israeli war cabinet, accuses PM Netanyahu of preventing `true victory`</a>

“The cabinet was in the coalition agreement with Gantz, at his request. As soon as Gantz left – there is no need for a cabinet anymore,” Netanyahu said, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post.

It is reported that Netanyahu will now consult a smaller group of ministers regarding the ongoing war in Gaza, including Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. It means that&nbsp;Ben-Gvir would still not be a part of these consultations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwivnq6EuuKGAxWEcmwGHTb4AiAQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-moves-forward-with-controversial-ultra-orthodox-conscription-law-after-gantz-resignation-730638" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-moves-forward-with-controversial-ultra-orthodox-conscription-law-after-gantz-resignation-730638&amp;ved=2ahUKEwivnq6EuuKGAxWEcmwGHTb4AiAQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Israel votes to revive controversial ultra-Orthodox conscription law following Gantz`s resignation</a>

Benny Gantz exited the coalition government after the&nbsp;breach of a June 8 deadline by Netanyahu over a commitment regarding who might rule Gaza after the war with Hamas is over.

Gantz announced his departure from the government on June 9.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dissolved the six-member war cabinet set up to manage the country's war with Hamas since the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dissolved the six-member war cabinet set up to manage the country's war with Hamas since the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group. Local media reported Monday (Jun 17) that Netanyahu announced the decision Sunday evening in a meeting of the political security cabinet. This comes after Netanyahu's allies demanded a new war cabinet be established after Benny Gantz, a centrist leader, exited the emergency government. Among those who demanded a new war cabinet be created are Nationalist-religious Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and hardliner National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The latter is of the view that the Jewish nation must continue its offensive in Gaza, resisting pressure from the world community. Also read: Benny Gantz quits from Israeli war cabinet, accuses PM Netanyahu of preventing `true victory` “The cabinet was in the coalition agreement with Gantz, at his request. As soon as Gantz left – there is no need for a cabinet anymore,” Netanyahu said, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post. It is reported that Netanyahu will now consult a smaller group of ministers regarding the ongoing war in Gaza, including Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. It means that Ben-Gvir would still not be a part of these consultations. Also read: Israel votes to revive controversial ultra-Orthodox conscription law following Gantz`s resignation Benny Gantz exited the coalition government after the breach of a June 8 deadline by Netanyahu over a commitment regarding who might rule Gaza after the war with Hamas is over. Gantz announced his departure from the government on June 9. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israeli PM dissolves six-member war cabinet after Benny Gantz's exit

Singapore's I Light Art Festival is back for its 10th edition. The event which is organised by the city's Urban Redevelopment Authority is ought to be Asia's Leading Sustainable Light Festival. Watch in for more details!

I Light Singapore 2024: Three-week visual arts festival features over 60 artworks

In France, tensions remain high with just a couple of weeks to go for the snap elections now the country's former president Nicolas Sarkozy has said that President Macron's untimely decision to dissolve the National Assembly and call for SNAP legislative elections can backfire and plunge the country into chaos. Keep watching to know more!

French elections 2024: Macron's call for snap elections triggers protest

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Philippine ship, Chinese vessel collide in disputed South China Sea

Star-studded fundraiser for Biden's re-election campaign sets record with $30 million raised

The Capitals: Kyiv tests its diplomatic capital against Moscow; and more

France: Former President Francois Hollande announces surprise candidacy

UK poll predictions: Tories headed towards a 'wipe-out', Labour to win 262-seat majority

At least 15 killed in Israeli airstrikes on Bureij and Maghazi refugee camps in Gaza

Hajj 2024: At least 19 Jordanian and Iranian pilgrims die in Saudi Arabia as temperatures soar

China used 'dangerous maneuvers' to harass Philippine supply ship in South China Sea

NATO in talks to put nuclear weapons on standby

Israel-Hamas War: Rift between Netanyahu & military widens?

Israel-Hamas War: Israel's war cabinet dissolved following Benny Gantz's exit

Zelensky: Peace talks tomorrow if Russia leaves Ukraine

Euro 2024: Hamburg police shoot axe attack suspect at fan parade in Germany

China terms G7 statement 'full of prejudice, arrogance and lies'

France elections: Thousands gather to protest against surge of far right

Greek coastguard threw migrants into sea after tying their hands: Report

China's PLAN marks 70th anniversary of its submarine force

US-India iCET meet: US NSA Sullivan scheduled to meet PM Modi

EU countries approve landmark nature law after delays

China's PLAN marks 70th anniversary of its submarine force

Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu denounces tactical pauses by military in Gaza fighting to get in aid

India's capital records second warmest night in six years

NATO to put nuclear weapons on standby?

Gaza war: Israeli PM dissolves six-member war cabinet after Benny Gantz's exit

I Light Singapore 2024: Three-week visual arts festival features over 60 artworks

French elections 2024: Macron's call for snap elections triggers protest