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Emergency teams, on Sunday (May 26) pulled out three more bodies from the rubble of the massive landslide which levelled a remote village in northern Papua New Guinea. The United Nations official told news agency AFP&nbsp;that more than&nbsp;670 people are believed to have died due to the disaster.

This comes after the UN had&nbsp;warned of&nbsp;the death toll rising further as&nbsp;hundreds are feared trapped under the rubble. Also, tribal violence in the nearby area has further&nbsp;complicated recovery efforts, according to aid workers.&nbsp;

<h2>'150-plus houses buried'</h2>

"There are an estimated 150-plus houses now buried, and 670-plus people are assumed dead," said Serhan Aktoprak, UN migration agency official.

The UN migration agency (IOM), on Sunday, said that the landslide buried more than 100 houses, an elementary school, small businesses and stalls, a guesthouse, and a petrol station.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Rescue teams race against time to save victims

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A landslide hit Kaokalam village in Enga Province which is around 600 kilometres northwest of the capital of the Papua New Guinea capital city of Port Moresby around 3:00 am (local time), on Friday (May 24).&nbsp;

IOM’s chief of mission in Papua New Guinea, Serhan Aktoprak had earlier said that the “number of injured and missing are still not known”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the UN Papua New Guinea office said three bodies were retrieved from an area where dozens of houses had been destroyed and six people, including a child, were pulled from the rubble alive.

Aid group CARE Australia, late Saturday, said nearly 4,000 people lived in the impact zone but the number of those impacted may be higher since the place was also a “refuge for those displaced by conflicts” in nearby areas.&nbsp;

Earlier, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said the landslide had impacted more than six villages.

<h2>Tribal violence hinders rescue efforts</h2>

UN official, Aktoprak said tribal fighting had broken out along the only remaining route into the disaster zone and while the violence is “not related” to the landslide Papua New Guinea’s military was providing a “security escort” to ensure the safe passage of aid convoys.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/papua-new-guinea-landslide-four-killed-over-300-buried-as-rescue-teams-rush-to-save-trapped-villagers-725167">Papua New Guinea landslide: At least 4 killed, over 300 buried as rescue teams rush to save trapped villagers</a>

At least 26 men were killed in Enga Province, earlier this year, in an ambush amid tribal violence which prompted PNG Prime Minister James Marape to give arrest powers to the country’s military.

Speaking about the concerns of a UN emergency response team working in Enga IOM’s chief of mission in Papua New Guinea also said that working across the debris is “very dangerous and the land is still sliding”.&nbsp;

A report by AFP citing officials said at some points, the landslide – a mix of car-sized boulders, uprooted trees and churned-up earth – was thought to be eight metres deep.&nbsp;

Much-needed heavy machinery was also expected to arrive at the site on Sunday, reported the news agency.&nbsp;

<h2>World leaders react</h2>

United States President Joe Biden said he was “heartbroken by the loss of life and devastation”&nbsp;and that the US was “ready to assist” in recovery efforts with partners including Australia and New Zealand.

Australian PM Anthony Albanese said that “all Australians grieve for our brothers and sisters in Papua New Guinea after the terrible landslide”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Emergency teams, on Sunday (May 26) pulled out three more bodies from the rubble of the massive landslide which levelled a remote village in northern Papua New Guinea.

Emergency teams, on Sunday (May 26) pulled out three more bodies from the rubble of the massive landslide which levelled a remote village in northern Papua New Guinea. The United Nations official told news agency AFP that more than 670 people are believed to have died due to the disaster. This comes after the UN had warned of the death toll rising further as hundreds are feared trapped under the rubble. Also, tribal violence in the nearby area has further complicated recovery efforts, according to aid workers. '150-plus houses buried' "There are an estimated 150-plus houses now buried, and 670-plus people are assumed dead," said Serhan Aktoprak, UN migration agency official. The UN migration agency (IOM), on Sunday, said that the landslide buried more than 100 houses, an elementary school, small businesses and stalls, a guesthouse, and a petrol station. WATCH | Rescue teams race against time to save victims A landslide hit Kaokalam village in Enga Province which is around 600 kilometres northwest of the capital of the Papua New Guinea capital city of Port Moresby around 3:00 am (local time), on Friday (May 24). IOM’s chief of mission in Papua New Guinea, Serhan Aktoprak had earlier said that the “number of injured and missing are still not known”. Meanwhile, the UN Papua New Guinea office said three bodies were retrieved from an area where dozens of houses had been destroyed and six people, including a child, were pulled from the rubble alive. Aid group CARE Australia, late Saturday, said nearly 4,000 people lived in the impact zone but the number of those impacted may be higher since the place was also a “refuge for those displaced by conflicts” in nearby areas. Earlier, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said the landslide had impacted more than six villages. Tribal violence hinders rescue efforts UN official, Aktoprak said tribal fighting had broken out along the only remaining route into the disaster zone and while the violence is “not related” to the landslide Papua New Guinea’s military was providing a “security escort” to ensure the safe passage of aid convoys. Also Read | Papua New Guinea landslide: At least 4 killed, over 300 buried as rescue teams rush to save trapped villagers At least 26 men were killed in Enga Province, earlier this year, in an ambush amid tribal violence which prompted PNG Prime Minister James Marape to give arrest powers to the country’s military. Speaking about the concerns of a UN emergency response team working in Enga IOM’s chief of mission in Papua New Guinea also said that working across the debris is “very dangerous and the land is still sliding”. A report by AFP citing officials said at some points, the landslide – a mix of car-sized boulders, uprooted trees and churned-up earth – was thought to be eight metres deep. Much-needed heavy machinery was also expected to arrive at the site on Sunday, reported the news agency. World leaders react United States President Joe Biden said he was “heartbroken by the loss of life and devastation” and that the US was “ready to assist” in recovery efforts with partners including Australia and New Zealand. Australian PM Anthony Albanese said that “all Australians grieve for our brothers and sisters in Papua New Guinea after the terrible landslide”. (With inputs from agencies)

Papua New Guinea landslide death toll over 670, says UN as more bodies recovered from site

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday (May 26) called on United States President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping to join the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland as Ukraine struggles to stave off relentless attacks by Russia amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine peace summit</h2>

“I am appealing to the leaders of the world who are still aside from the global efforts of the global peace summit: to President Biden, the leader of the United States, and to President Xi, the leader of China,” Zelensky said in a video message, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

“Please support the peace summit with your personal leadership and participation,” Zelensky said, adding that the “efforts of the global majority are the best guarantee that all commitments will be fulfilled”.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine claims drone strikes damaged Russia's radar station

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The peace summit will take place in the Swiss city of Lucerne on June 15 and 16.&nbsp;

According to the Swiss government, 160 delegations have been invited but Russia will not attend. The Ukrainian president said, “more than 80 countries confirmed they will come”.&nbsp;

The meeting has sought to put international pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Moscow has repeatedly said that it sees no point in the conference.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-after-russian-strike-on-hardware-store-in-kharkiv-rises-to-11-ukrainian-governor-725499">Death toll after Russian strike on hardware store in Kharkiv rises to 11: Ukrainian governor</a>

Zelensky’s comments also come after a report by Reuters citing Russian sources said Putin was ready to stop the ongoing war in Ukraine with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines.

However, the Ukrainian president and supporters of Kyiv have said that a ceasefire will only help Russia rearm and regroup.

<h2>Russia-Ukraine war updates</h2>

The peace summit comes as Russia has ramped up attacks on Ukraine amid its ongoing 27-month-old invasion. In recent weeks, Moscow made steady gains on the battlefield and captured several villages in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-bombs-diy-store-in-ukraines-kharkiv-zelensky-says-over-200-feared-inside-725415">Russia bombs DIY store in Ukraine’s Kharkiv, Zelensky says ‘over 200’ feared inside</a>

Russia has also stepped up air strikes on Ukrainian cities and the war-torn country’s energy infrastructure. Earlier this month, Moscow launched more than 70 missiles and drones overnight in one of its largest attacks against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.&nbsp;

The attack on May 7 was directed at facilities in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv and six other cities. This comes as Kyiv has been urging its allies in the West to send more weapons warning that its defence capabilities are running low.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday (May 26) called on United States President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping to join the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland as Ukraine struggles to stave off relentless attacks by Russia amid the ongoing war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday (May 26) called on United States President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping to join the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland as Ukraine struggles to stave off relentless attacks by Russia amid the ongoing war. Ukraine peace summit “I am appealing to the leaders of the world who are still aside from the global efforts of the global peace summit: to President Biden, the leader of the United States, and to President Xi, the leader of China,” Zelensky said in a video message, as quoted by AFP. “Please support the peace summit with your personal leadership and participation,” Zelensky said, adding that the “efforts of the global majority are the best guarantee that all commitments will be fulfilled”. WATCH | Ukraine claims drone strikes damaged Russia's radar station The peace summit will take place in the Swiss city of Lucerne on June 15 and 16. According to the Swiss government, 160 delegations have been invited but Russia will not attend. The Ukrainian president said, “more than 80 countries confirmed they will come”. The meeting has sought to put international pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Moscow has repeatedly said that it sees no point in the conference. Also Read | Death toll after Russian strike on hardware store in Kharkiv rises to 11: Ukrainian governor Zelensky’s comments also come after a report by Reuters citing Russian sources said Putin was ready to stop the ongoing war in Ukraine with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines. However, the Ukrainian president and supporters of Kyiv have said that a ceasefire will only help Russia rearm and regroup. Russia-Ukraine war updates The peace summit comes as Russia has ramped up attacks on Ukraine amid its ongoing 27-month-old invasion. In recent weeks, Moscow made steady gains on the battlefield and captured several villages in eastern Ukraine. Also Read | Russia bombs DIY store in Ukraine’s Kharkiv, Zelensky says ‘over 200’ feared inside Russia has also stepped up air strikes on Ukrainian cities and the war-torn country’s energy infrastructure. Earlier this month, Moscow launched more than 70 missiles and drones overnight in one of its largest attacks against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The attack on May 7 was directed at facilities in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv and six other cities. This comes as Kyiv has been urging its allies in the West to send more weapons warning that its defence capabilities are running low. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Zelensky urges Biden and Xi to attend Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland next month

Aid trucks from Egypt began entering the Gaza Strip on Sunday (May 26) through the Kerem Shalom crossing, which is controlled by Israel. Citing state media, the news agency AFP reported that 200 trucks in total moved from the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing, which has been shut since early May when Israel seized the Palestinian side of the terminal, to the Kerem Shalom crossing, some four kilometres to the south.

Aid trucks from Egypt began entering the Gaza Strip on Sunday (May 26) through the Kerem Shalom crossing, which is controlled by Israel. Citing state media, the news agency AFP reported that 200 trucks in total moved from the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing, which has been shut since early May when Israel seized the Palestinian side of the terminal, to the Kerem Shalom crossing, some four kilometres to the south. Egypt has refused to coordinate aid through Rafah as long as Israeli troops control the Palestinian side. Four aid trucks heading to hospitals However on Friday, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi agreed in a call with US President Joe Biden to allow aid through Kerem Shalom, the other entry point into southern Gaza, the White House said. Also read | US Army vessels supporting Gaza aid pier washed away in heavy seas: CENTCOM It is not yet known how many trucks had made their way through inspection into Gaza, but state media said "four fuel trucks" had already crossed and were heading to hospitals. All aid from Egypt is inspected by Israeli authorities and distributed via the United Nations. Speaking to AFP, Khaled Zayed, head of the Egyptian Red Crescent in al-Arish, said the remainder of the 200 trucks were expected to cross into Gaza later on Sunday. Israel continues bombarding Gaza On Sunday, Israel bombarded the Gaza Strip with air strikes and artillery shelling on the northern, central, and southern areas of the Palestinian territory. Gaza's civil defence agency said Sunday it had retrieved six bodies after a house was targeted in a strike on Rafah's eastern Khirbet al-Adas neighbourhood, AFP reported. Also watch | Destruction more severe than nuclear war: What is weather warfare? | WION Decodes × Witnesses said Israeli artillery had also targeted central Rafah's Yibna camp, and that heavy artillery shelling hit the city's Sooq al-Halal and Qishta neighbourhoods. These fresh attacks came as diplomatic efforts were expected to resume in the coming days towards a truce and hostage release deal. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Aid trucks from Egypt begin entering Gaza Strip

Ukraine made a drone strike this week at a tactical military target in Russia’s Krasnodar region. The long-range early-warning radar system Voronezh-DM in Armavir, southern Russia, was hit by a drone launched by Ukraine’s military intelligence on Thursday, according to the reports. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine claims drone strikes damaged Russia's radar station

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine says it struck anti-missile defence radar in Russia

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Bolivians celebrate colorful 'Lord Jesus of Great Power' festival in La Paz

A recent investigation by The Telegraph has uncovered a network of luxury properties scattered across London, all owned by the regime of Vladimir Putin. The combined value comes in an estimated tens of millions of pounds.

These opulent residences are reportedly nestled in some of the capital’s most prestigious neighbourhoods. They have now come under renewed scrutiny amid the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

Earlier this month, the British Government revoked the diplomatic status of a few Russian properties suspected of being used for espionage activities.

Among the properties from which the diplomatic premises status was removed&nbsp;in the UK were "Seacox Heath – a Russia-owned property in Sussex – and the Trade and Defence Section in Highgate, which are believed to have been used for intelligence purposes," as per a UK government release earlier this month.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-cia-officer-accused-of-spying-for-china-pleads-guilty-725510">Former CIA officer accused of spying for China pleads guilty</a>

This reportedly means now there is a chance for law enforcement agencies to enter and investigate these buildings.&nbsp;The government earlier also expelled the Russian defence attache.&nbsp;The country also imposed new "restrictions on Russian diplomatic visas, including capping the length of time Russian diplomats can spend in the UK."

<h2>Additional ten properties in London</h2>

The Telegraph's investigation has identified an additional ten properties in London owned by the Russian Federation, the outlet said citing HM Land Registry records.

Notably, some of these properties have words of cautions&nbsp;in their records, indicating that they cannot be sold without the consent of Ukraine. Despite their upscale locales, many of these properties appeared neglected upon inspection by the outlet, with some remaining vacant for years.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/upside-down-us-flag-row-why-sc-judge-alito-facing-recusal-calls-from-trump-cases-725493">Upside-down US flag row: Why SC Judge Alito is facing recusal calls from Trump cases?</a>

In Highgate, a property valued at £2.4 million showed signs of neglect, with overgrown weeds and padlocked gates. Nearby, another Russia-linked property, valued at £2.3 million, suffered similar neglect, with reports of no activity for decades and rumors of surveillance equipment found in neighbouring homes.

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In Kensington, a Grade II-listed building housing the "permanent mission of the Russian Federation to the international maritime organization" stood with CCTV cameras.&nbsp;

Similarly, in Holland Park, amid the residences of celebrities like Ed Sheeran and Elton John, a property valued at £1.65 million stood as another one of Russia's extensive property holdings in London.

(With inputs from agencies)

A recent investigation by The Telegraph has uncovered a network of luxury properties scattered across London, all owned by the regime of Vladimir Putin. The combined value comes in an estimated tens of millions of pounds.

A recent investigation by The Telegraph has uncovered a network of luxury properties scattered across London, all owned by the regime of Vladimir Putin. The combined value comes in an estimated tens of millions of pounds. These opulent residences are reportedly nestled in some of the capital’s most prestigious neighbourhoods. They have now come under renewed scrutiny amid the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Earlier this month, the British Government revoked the diplomatic status of a few Russian properties suspected of being used for espionage activities. Among the properties from which the diplomatic premises status was removed in the UK were "Seacox Heath – a Russia-owned property in Sussex – and the Trade and Defence Section in Highgate, which are believed to have been used for intelligence purposes," as per a UK government release earlier this month. Also Read | Former CIA officer accused of spying for China pleads guilty This reportedly means now there is a chance for law enforcement agencies to enter and investigate these buildings. The government earlier also expelled the Russian defence attache. The country also imposed new "restrictions on Russian diplomatic visas, including capping the length of time Russian diplomats can spend in the UK." Additional ten properties in London The Telegraph's investigation has identified an additional ten properties in London owned by the Russian Federation, the outlet said citing HM Land Registry records. Notably, some of these properties have words of cautions in their records, indicating that they cannot be sold without the consent of Ukraine. Despite their upscale locales, many of these properties appeared neglected upon inspection by the outlet, with some remaining vacant for years. Also Read | Upside-down US flag row: Why SC Judge Alito is facing recusal calls from Trump cases? In Highgate, a property valued at £2.4 million showed signs of neglect, with overgrown weeds and padlocked gates. Nearby, another Russia-linked property, valued at £2.3 million, suffered similar neglect, with reports of no activity for decades and rumors of surveillance equipment found in neighbouring homes. Watch | Janet Yellen signals potential sanction escalation for banks in Russia × In Kensington, a Grade II-listed building housing the "permanent mission of the Russian Federation to the international maritime organization" stood with CCTV cameras. Similarly, in Holland Park, amid the residences of celebrities like Ed Sheeran and Elton John, a property valued at £1.65 million stood as another one of Russia's extensive property holdings in London. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin regime owns lavish London properties worth millions of pounds: Report

Donald Trump, the former US president, has suffered the rare humiliation of getting booed and heckled during a raucous speech to the Libertarian Party National Convention. Watch in for more details!

US: Donald Trump booed and hackled while addressing Libertarian event

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International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday (May 24) ordered Israel to halt military operations in Rafah.

The president of the top United Nations court read the ruling on a plea by South Africa to order a halt to the military offensive in Gaza.&nbsp;

In the landmark ruling, the world court said Israel must "immediately halt its military offensive and any other action in the Rafah Governorate, which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part".&nbsp;

ICJ said that Israel must submit to all measures taken within one month from the date of this order.&nbsp;

The Hague-based court also said it was "not convinced" that the evacuation of Rafah and other measures by Israel were sufficient to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bodies-of-3-more-oct-7-hostages-recovered-overnight-from-gaza-says-israeli-army-724893">Bodies of three more Oct 7 hostages recovered overnight from Gaza, says Israeli Army</a>&nbsp;

Experts believe that the ruling will likely increase mounting international pressure on Israel more than seven months into the Gaza war.

The decision came a few days after&nbsp;the International Criminal Court prosecutor sought arrest warrants for top Israeli and Hamas leaders.&nbsp;

The prosecutor argued that&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidix9TjsABHoRC" />Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and top Hamas officials, were guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the ongoing war.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel accused of 'genocide'&nbsp;</h2>

The case was&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidix9TjsABHoRC" />brought before the ICJ last year with South Africa alleging that Israel's Gaza offensive breached the 1948 UN Genocide Convention.&nbsp;

South Africa had accused Israel of "genocide" and urged ICJ to order an "immediate" stop to Israel's campaign, including in the southern area of Rafah, and facilitate access to humanitarian aid.&nbsp;

Earlier this year in January, the ICJ ordered Israel to do everything it could to prevent acts of genocide during its military operation in Gaza.&nbsp;

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidix9TjsABHoRC" />

Israel strongly denied the accusations and in&nbsp;its argument had said that any order to stop military activity would give free rein to Hamas extremists and prevent its army from rescuing hostages taken in the group's brutal October 7 attack.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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South Africa welcomed the ruling and urged UN member states to back it.&nbsp;"I believe it's a much stronger, in terms of wording, set of provisional measures, very clear call for a cessation," Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor told public broadcaster SABC.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said that he would consult senior ministers to discuss the order.&nbsp;

Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich responded to the ruling on X, formerly Twitter, saying "history will judge those who stand today alongside the Nazis of Hamas Daesh," referring to the jihadist Islamic State group.&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.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday (May 24) ordered Israel to halt military operations in Rafah. The president of the top United Nations court read the ruling on a plea by South Africa to order a halt to the military offensive in Gaza.

International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday (May 24) ordered Israel to halt military operations in Rafah. The president of the top United Nations court read the ruling on a plea by South Africa to order a halt to the military offensive in Gaza. In the landmark ruling, the world court said Israel must "immediately halt its military offensive and any other action in the Rafah Governorate, which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part". ICJ said that Israel must submit to all measures taken within one month from the date of this order. The Hague-based court also said it was "not convinced" that the evacuation of Rafah and other measures by Israel were sufficient to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians. Also read: Bodies of three more Oct 7 hostages recovered overnight from Gaza, says Israeli Army Experts believe that the ruling will likely increase mounting international pressure on Israel more than seven months into the Gaza war. The decision came a few days after the International Criminal Court prosecutor sought arrest warrants for top Israeli and Hamas leaders. The prosecutor argued that Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and top Hamas officials, were guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the ongoing war. Israel accused of 'genocide' The case was brought before the ICJ last year with South Africa alleging that Israel's Gaza offensive breached the 1948 UN Genocide Convention. South Africa had accused Israel of "genocide" and urged ICJ to order an "immediate" stop to Israel's campaign, including in the southern area of Rafah, and facilitate access to humanitarian aid. Earlier this year in January, the ICJ ordered Israel to do everything it could to prevent acts of genocide during its military operation in Gaza. Israel strongly denied the accusations and in its argument had said that any order to stop military activity would give free rein to Hamas extremists and prevent its army from rescuing hostages taken in the group's brutal October 7 attack. Watch this report: × Also read: Kenya is now 'major non-NATO ally' of the US. Here's what it means South Africa welcomed the ruling and urged UN member states to back it. "I believe it's a much stronger, in terms of wording, set of provisional measures, very clear call for a cessation," Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor told public broadcaster SABC. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said that he would consult senior ministers to discuss the order. Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich responded to the ruling on X, formerly Twitter, saying "history will judge those who stand today alongside the Nazis of Hamas Daesh," referring to the jihadist Islamic State group. 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)

World court orders Israel to 'immediately halt' offensive in Rafah

An Indian-origin truck driver in Canada, who caused the horrific bus crash involving the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team that killed 16 people, will be deported to India, Canadian media reported on Friday (May 24).

An Indian-origin truck driver in Canada, who caused the horrific bus crash involving the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team that killed 16 people, will be deported to India, Canadian media reported on Friday (May 24). Jaskirat Singh Sidhu arrived in Canada in 2014. On April 6, 2018, he barreled through a stop sign and into the path of the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team's bus at a rural intersection near Tisdale in Saskatchewan Province. Many of the 16 killed were members of the hockey team, while 13 others were injured. According to a report by CBC, the decision to deport Sidhu back to India was announced by the Immigration and Refugee Board. Also read | Canada to reinstate citizenship for foreign-born offspring of Canadians after court ruling Trent Cook, a member of the board, told Sidhu, "I can't consider humanitarian and compassionate factors. My sole role today is to make a finding on whether the minister has established the facts that support their allegation that you're inadmissible for serious criminality." "I am required by law to issue you with a deportation order," Cook added. 'A foregone conclusion' Reacting to the immigration board's decision, Sidhu's lawyer Michael Greene said that the decision was a foregone conclusion, as all that was required to deport Sidhu was proof he was not a Canadian citizen and he had committed a serious crime, CBC reported. Sidhu, who lives in Calgary, had earlier pleaded guilty to dangerous driving offences and was sentenced to eight years in prison. He was granted full parole in 2023. Green said on Friday that there were more legal and procedural steps to follow and his client might not be deported for months or even years. Greene added that he planned to file an application asking the government to return Sidhu's permanent resident status on humanitarian grounds. He further pointed out that Sidhu's child, who was born in Canada, had heart and lung complications. "It's been a rough ride for them and that child requires a lot of medical attention," the lawyer added. One victim's father forgives Sidhu The CBC report further said that several family members of those killed in the 2018 crash demanded that Sidhu should be deported. However, the father of one of the victims said he had forgiven Sidhu and advocated for the truck driver to stay in Canada. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada bus crash: Truck driver behind 2018 accident that killed 16 to be deported to India

China announced the end of two days of military drills around Taiwan late Friday (May 24), which it said simulated attacks to test its ability to seize the self-governed island. Taiwan on Saturday slammed China for the drills, calling it a “blatant provocation to the international order”.&nbsp;

<h2>China announces end of military drills</h2>

The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has “successfully completed” the ‘Joint Sword-2024A’ drill against Taiwan, reported CCTV-7, China’s state-run military news channel, in a broadcast late Friday (May 24), as per AFP news agency.&nbsp;

The drills came days after Taiwan President Lai Ching-te – who China has previously called a “separatist” – took office. Lai’s speech during his inauguration was also denounced by Beijing as a “confession of independence”.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Is China preparing to invade Taiwan?

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China had also called the two-day military drill a “punishment” for the recentl inauguration speech of the new Taiwanese president, during which he said two sides of the Taiwan Strait were “not subordinate to each other,” which Beijing viewed as a declaration that the two are separate countries.

China has long considered democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, a claim which the self-governed island has rejected.&nbsp;

Lai also said that only Taiwan’s people can decide their future, and rejected Beijing’s sovereignty claims.&nbsp;

China has regularly staged military activities around Taiwan, including large-scale war games in 2022 as well as last year, in what is being seen as an escalating campaign of intimidation by Beijing against the self-governed island.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Blatant provocation’ to world order</h2>

“China’s recent unilateral provocation not only undermines the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait but it is also a blatant provocation to the international order, triggering serious concern and condemnation from the international community,” said a statement attributed to Taiwan’s Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

She added that Taiwan hopes "China will take the safety and happiness of the people on both sides into consideration, pursue mutual benefit, coexistence... stop all kinds of political and military intimidations on Taiwan and the region".&nbsp;

Speaking about China's various military actions, Kuo&nbsp;said that "the president and the national security team have a full grasp of the situation" and called for the public to "rest assured".

<h2>Taiwan reports Chinese warplane, warship surge</h2>

Taiwan’s defence ministry on Saturday said a total of 111 Chinese aircraft and dozens of naval vessels took part in the two-day drills surrounding the island.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-62-chinese-aircraft-around-island-on-day-two-of-beijings-military-drills-725039">Taiwan detects 62 Chinese aircraft around island on day two of Beijing's military drills</a>

As of Saturday at 6:00 am (local time), around 62 Chinese warplanes and 27 PLAN vessels were detected around the self-governed island, said Taiwan’s defence ministry.&nbsp;

It also reported that 47 Chinese warplanes crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered the island’s southwestern, southeastern, and eastern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).&nbsp;

Taiwan Strait’s median line has previously served as an unofficial barrier between the two sides.&nbsp;

“ROC (Republic of China) Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities,” said Taiwan’s defence ministry. &nbsp;

Dozens of Chinese aircraft which included advanced Su-30 fighters and nuclear-capable H-6 bombers, flew in the strait as well as down into the Bashi Channel, which separates Taiwan from the Philippines, reported the self-governed island’s defence ministry.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Closer than ever before’</h2>

Chinese military analyst Tong Zhen, an expert from the Academy of Military Sciences, told state news agency Xinhua that the PLA vessels had inched “closer than ever before” to Taiwan’s shores.&nbsp;

The exercises involved simulating strikes targeting the island’s leaders as well as its ports and airports, as per Xinhua.&nbsp;

This would “cut off the island’s ‘blood vessels’ and block out its ‘foreign aid regiments’,” Tong was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

China announced the end of two days of military drills around Taiwan late Friday (May 24), which it said simulated attacks to test its ability to seize the self-governed island.

China announced the end of two days of military drills around Taiwan late Friday (May 24), which it said simulated attacks to test its ability to seize the self-governed island. Taiwan on Saturday slammed China for the drills, calling it a “blatant provocation to the international order”. China announces end of military drills The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has “successfully completed” the ‘Joint Sword-2024A’ drill against Taiwan, reported CCTV-7, China’s state-run military news channel, in a broadcast late Friday (May 24), as per AFP news agency. The drills came days after Taiwan President Lai Ching-te – who China has previously called a “separatist” – took office. Lai’s speech during his inauguration was also denounced by Beijing as a “confession of independence”. WATCH | Is China preparing to invade Taiwan? China had also called the two-day military drill a “punishment” for the recentl inauguration speech of the new Taiwanese president, during which he said two sides of the Taiwan Strait were “not subordinate to each other,” which Beijing viewed as a declaration that the two are separate countries. China has long considered democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, a claim which the self-governed island has rejected. Lai also said that only Taiwan’s people can decide their future, and rejected Beijing’s sovereignty claims. China has regularly staged military activities around Taiwan, including large-scale war games in 2022 as well as last year, in what is being seen as an escalating campaign of intimidation by Beijing against the self-governed island. ‘Blatant provocation’ to world order “China’s recent unilateral provocation not only undermines the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait but it is also a blatant provocation to the international order, triggering serious concern and condemnation from the international community,” said a statement attributed to Taiwan’s Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo, as quoted by AFP. She added that Taiwan hopes "China will take the safety and happiness of the people on both sides into consideration, pursue mutual benefit, coexistence... stop all kinds of political and military intimidations on Taiwan and the region". Speaking about China's various military actions, Kuo said that "the president and the national security team have a full grasp of the situation" and called for the public to "rest assured". Taiwan reports Chinese warplane, warship surge Taiwan’s defence ministry on Saturday said a total of 111 Chinese aircraft and dozens of naval vessels took part in the two-day drills surrounding the island. Also Read | Taiwan detects 62 Chinese aircraft around island on day two of Beijing's military drills As of Saturday at 6:00 am (local time), around 62 Chinese warplanes and 27 PLAN vessels were detected around the self-governed island, said Taiwan’s defence ministry. It also reported that 47 Chinese warplanes crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered the island’s southwestern, southeastern, and eastern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). Taiwan Strait’s median line has previously served as an unofficial barrier between the two sides. “ROC (Republic of China) Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities,” said Taiwan’s defence ministry. Dozens of Chinese aircraft which included advanced Su-30 fighters and nuclear-capable H-6 bombers, flew in the strait as well as down into the Bashi Channel, which separates Taiwan from the Philippines, reported the self-governed island’s defence ministry. ‘Closer than ever before’ Chinese military analyst Tong Zhen, an expert from the Academy of Military Sciences, told state news agency Xinhua that the PLA vessels had inched “closer than ever before” to Taiwan’s shores. The exercises involved simulating strikes targeting the island’s leaders as well as its ports and airports, as per Xinhua. This would “cut off the island’s ‘blood vessels’ and block out its ‘foreign aid regiments’,” Tong was quoted as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan slams China for 'blatant provocation' after Beijing's military drills around self-ruled island ends

US-made satellite-guided advanced munitions, including precision-guided artillery, rely on GPS signals for accurate targeting. However, Russia's sophisticated jamming technology has effectively disrupted these signals and diminished the effectiveness of these weapons on the battlefield and has resulted in a notable shift in Ukraine's military strategy, reports said.&nbsp;

Quoting senior Ukrainian military officials and confidential assessments obtained, a Washington Post report&nbsp;highlighted Ukraine's urgent need for upgraded weaponry to counter Russia’s sophisticated electronic warfare capabilities.

Russia’s jamming of guidance systems on advanced Western weapons, such as Excalibur GPS-guided artillery shells and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), has prove deteriorating for Ukraine's defences.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blatant-provocation-taiwan-slams-china-after-announces-end-of-military-drills-around-self-ruled-island-725215">‘Blatant provocation’: Taiwan slams China after it announces end of military drills around self-ruled island</a>

The concept of "one shot, one target," which has long been a hallmark of US military precision, is facing challenges in the current conflict between Ukraine and Russia. This development has resulted in Kyiv urgently seeking help from the Pentagon to obtain upgrades from arms manufacturers.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/special-counsel-seeks-gag-order-after-trumps-claim-fbi-agents-were-authorised-to-shoot-me-725185">US: Special Counsel seeks gag order after Trump claims FBI agents were 'authorised to shoot me'</a>

"The Excalibur technology in existing versions has lost its potential," the Ukrainian assessments concluded, said the report. The success rate for Excalibur shells dropped to less than 10 per cent before Ukraine dropped its use last year. It initially achieved over 50 per cent accuracy but this is no more the case with Russian GPS jamming.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia expands use of electronic warfare</h2>

A senior US defence official commented, "Russia has continued to expand their use of electronic warfare, and “we continue to evolve and make sure that Ukraine has the capabilities they need to be effective.”

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hezbollah-barrages-deal-heavy-damage-in-northern-israel-725213">Hezbollah barrages deal heavy damage in Northern Israel</a>

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However, Ukrainian officials said the response process is too bureaucratic, complicating the path to urgently needed adjustments. “I’m not saying no one was worried about it before, but now they’re starting to worry,” the report quoted a senior Ukrainian military official as saying.&nbsp;

“As we share information with our partners and our partners share with us, the Russians definitely also share with China,” the official said, adding, “and even if they don’t share with China … China monitors events in Ukraine.”

Six months ago, after Ukrainians reported the problem, Washington ceased providing Excalibur shells due to the high failure rate. In contrast, the US provided a patch for aircraft-dropped bombs called JDAMs, which Ukraine continues to use.

The confidential Ukrainian reports, prepared between fall 2023 and April 2024, revealed the extent of Russian jamming's impact on Western weaponry.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US-made satellite-guided advanced munitions, including precision-guided artillery, rely on GPS signals for accurate targeting. However, Russia's sophisticated jamming technology has effectively disrupted these signals and diminished the effectiveness of these weapons on the battlefield and has resulted in a notable shift in Ukraine's military strategy, reports said.

US-made satellite-guided advanced munitions, including precision-guided artillery, rely on GPS signals for accurate targeting. However, Russia's sophisticated jamming technology has effectively disrupted these signals and diminished the effectiveness of these weapons on the battlefield and has resulted in a notable shift in Ukraine's military strategy, reports said. Quoting senior Ukrainian military officials and confidential assessments obtained, a Washington Post report highlighted Ukraine's urgent need for upgraded weaponry to counter Russia’s sophisticated electronic warfare capabilities. Russia’s jamming of guidance systems on advanced Western weapons, such as Excalibur GPS-guided artillery shells and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), has prove deteriorating for Ukraine's defences. Also Read | ‘Blatant provocation’: Taiwan slams China after it announces end of military drills around self-ruled island The concept of "one shot, one target," which has long been a hallmark of US military precision, is facing challenges in the current conflict between Ukraine and Russia. This development has resulted in Kyiv urgently seeking help from the Pentagon to obtain upgrades from arms manufacturers. Also Read | US: Special Counsel seeks gag order after Trump claims FBI agents were 'authorised to shoot me' "The Excalibur technology in existing versions has lost its potential," the Ukrainian assessments concluded, said the report. The success rate for Excalibur shells dropped to less than 10 per cent before Ukraine dropped its use last year. It initially achieved over 50 per cent accuracy but this is no more the case with Russian GPS jamming. Russia expands use of electronic warfare A senior US defence official commented, "Russia has continued to expand their use of electronic warfare, and “we continue to evolve and make sure that Ukraine has the capabilities they need to be effective.” Watch | Hezbollah barrages deal heavy damage in Northern Israel × However, Ukrainian officials said the response process is too bureaucratic, complicating the path to urgently needed adjustments. “I’m not saying no one was worried about it before, but now they’re starting to worry,” the report quoted a senior Ukrainian military official as saying. “As we share information with our partners and our partners share with us, the Russians definitely also share with China,” the official said, adding, “and even if they don’t share with China … China monitors events in Ukraine.” Six months ago, after Ukrainians reported the problem, Washington ceased providing Excalibur shells due to the high failure rate. In contrast, the US provided a patch for aircraft-dropped bombs called JDAMs, which Ukraine continues to use. The confidential Ukrainian reports, prepared between fall 2023 and April 2024, revealed the extent of Russian jamming's impact on Western weaponry. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian jamming throws US-made precision weapons off target as Ukraine pleas for weaponry upgrades

The Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah has launched thousands of rockets, mortar rounds, anti-tank missiles and attack drones at northern Israel. Watch in for more details!

Hezbollah barrages deal heavy damage in Northern Israel

The latest numbers show migrant encounters at the US-Mexico border have dropped. Illegal crossings usually increase in the spring, but officials say this April they fell by more than 6% compared with March.

Illegal crossing into US from Mexico falls over 6% in April

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (May 25) said that over 200 people were feared inside a DIY superstore which was hit by Russia in the northeastern city of Kharkiv.

"As of now, we know that more than 200 people could have been inside the hypermarket," Zelensky said on Telegram.

He further condemned the daylight attack on an "obviously civilian" target.&nbsp;

This came after Ukrainian officials said that a Russian strike at a hardware superstore in the eastern city of Kharkiv claimed the lives of two and wounded 33 others.

Kharkiv regional governor Oleg Synegubov said that "two Russian guided bombs hit a construction hypermarket".

"Two people were killed. They were men who worked in the hypermarket," Synegubov said in a video posted on Telegram. "The number of wounded has gone up to 33 people," he added in a later post.

The firefighters, as per news agency AFP said that the fire was raging over an area of 10,000 square metres, however, they managed to stop it from spreading.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-nuclear-drills-are-not-an-escalation-questions-zelenskys-legitimacy-as-ukraines-leader-725076">Also read: Putin says nuclear drills are not an escalation, questions Zelensky's legitimacy as Ukraine's leader</a>

<h2>'Only madmen like Putin are capable of killing people': Zelensky&nbsp;</h2>

Zelensky condemned the attack as "vile" and slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin stating that only madmen like him are capable of killing and terrorising people.

"Russia struck another brutal blow at our Kharkiv -- at a construction hypermarket -- on Saturday, right in the middle of the day," Zelensky said.

"Only madmen like Putin are capable of killing and terrorising people in such a vile way," he added.

"There were a lot of workers and shoppers inside," he added.

Kharkiv mayor Igor Terekhov said that as per the owner of the building, 15 people working at the store had not been in contact and around 200 people were present in the store when the strike hit.

He denounced the attack calling it "pure terrorism".

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (May 25) said that over 200 people were feared inside a DIY superstore which was hit by Russia in the northeastern city of Kharkiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (May 25) said that over 200 people were feared inside a DIY superstore which was hit by Russia in the northeastern city of Kharkiv. "As of now, we know that more than 200 people could have been inside the hypermarket," Zelensky said on Telegram. He further condemned the daylight attack on an "obviously civilian" target. This came after Ukrainian officials said that a Russian strike at a hardware superstore in the eastern city of Kharkiv claimed the lives of two and wounded 33 others. Kharkiv regional governor Oleg Synegubov said that "two Russian guided bombs hit a construction hypermarket". "Two people were killed. They were men who worked in the hypermarket," Synegubov said in a video posted on Telegram. "The number of wounded has gone up to 33 people," he added in a later post. The firefighters, as per news agency AFP said that the fire was raging over an area of 10,000 square metres, however, they managed to stop it from spreading. Also read: Putin says nuclear drills are not an escalation, questions Zelensky's legitimacy as Ukraine's leader 'Only madmen like Putin are capable of killing people': Zelensky Zelensky condemned the attack as "vile" and slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin stating that only madmen like him are capable of killing and terrorising people. "Russia struck another brutal blow at our Kharkiv -- at a construction hypermarket -- on Saturday, right in the middle of the day," Zelensky said. "Only madmen like Putin are capable of killing and terrorising people in such a vile way," he added. "There were a lot of workers and shoppers inside," he added. Kharkiv mayor Igor Terekhov said that as per the owner of the building, 15 people working at the store had not been in contact and around 200 people were present in the store when the strike hit. He denounced the attack calling it "pure terrorism". (With inputs from agencies)

Russia bombs DIY store in Ukraine’s Kharkiv, Zelensky says ‘over 200’ feared inside

Dozens of people reportedly become unwell with stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhoea in south-east London forcing Thames Water to send some samples of water for lab testing.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, local media reported that people in Devon were urged to boil their water due to concerns about contamination earlier this month. It was followed by over 100 cases of a waterborne illness that were apparently linked to contaminated drinking water. At least 46 cases of cryptosporidiosis were also confirmed in and around the town of Brixham in South West England.&nbsp;

Cryptosporidiosis is caused by the parasite cryptosporidium. The infections can be caused by drinking contaminated water or swallowing contaminated water in swimming pools or streams.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/13-year-war-57-million-or-over-1-in-4-people-extremely-poor-in-syria-reports-world-bank-725364">13 year war: 5.7 million or over 1 in 4 people 'extremely poor' in Syria, reports World Bank</a>&nbsp;

Addressing Beckenham, Thames Water said in a post on X that they can confirm there are no failures from the Central Sydenham water zone. It said that their technicians collected samples from a property in the area on Tuesday (May 22) following customers contacting them.&nbsp;

Thames Water said that initial on-site testing carried out by an accredited technician did not indicate an aesthetic issue with the water. However, further samples were also collected for laboratory analysis and the results showed no concerns.&nbsp;

"We take the quality of our water extremely seriously – it is the highest quality drinking water in the world – and since 2010 more than 99.95% of tests taken from customers’ taps met the standard required by UK and European legislation," Thames Water said.&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-170-climate-activists-arrested-amid-protests-targeting-totalenergies-725342">More than 170 climate activists arrested amid protests targeting TotalEnergies</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Keir Starmer 'would lower voting age in one of Labour's first acts'

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Thames Water is a British private utility company that is in charge of the water supply and wastewater treatment in the majority of Greater London, Luton, the Thames Valley, Surrey, Gloucestershire, and north Wiltshire. It also supplies water to far west Kent and some other parts of England.&nbsp;

On its website, Thames Water wrote, "We work hard to improve the quality of your drinking water. Every year we carry out more than 500,000 tests. We take samples from our water mains and pipes, as well as from customers' taps. Since 2010, more than 99.95% of tests taken from customers’ taps met the standard required by UK and European legislation."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Dozens of people reportedly become unwell with stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhoea in south-east London forcing Thames Water to send some samples of water for lab testing.

Dozens of people reportedly become unwell with stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhoea in south-east London forcing Thames Water to send some samples of water for lab testing. Earlier this month, local media reported that people in Devon were urged to boil their water due to concerns about contamination earlier this month. It was followed by over 100 cases of a waterborne illness that were apparently linked to contaminated drinking water. At least 46 cases of cryptosporidiosis were also confirmed in and around the town of Brixham in South West England. Cryptosporidiosis is caused by the parasite cryptosporidium. The infections can be caused by drinking contaminated water or swallowing contaminated water in swimming pools or streams. Also read: 13 year war: 5.7 million or over 1 in 4 people 'extremely poor' in Syria, reports World Bank Addressing Beckenham, Thames Water said in a post on X that they can confirm there are no failures from the Central Sydenham water zone. It said that their technicians collected samples from a property in the area on Tuesday (May 22) following customers contacting them. Thames Water said that initial on-site testing carried out by an accredited technician did not indicate an aesthetic issue with the water. However, further samples were also collected for laboratory analysis and the results showed no concerns. "We take the quality of our water extremely seriously – it is the highest quality drinking water in the world – and since 2010 more than 99.95% of tests taken from customers’ taps met the standard required by UK and European legislation," Thames Water said. Also read: More than 170 climate activists arrested amid protests targeting TotalEnergies Watch: Keir Starmer 'would lower voting age in one of Labour's first acts' × Thames Water is a British private utility company that is in charge of the water supply and wastewater treatment in the majority of Greater London, Luton, the Thames Valley, Surrey, Gloucestershire, and north Wiltshire. It also supplies water to far west Kent and some other parts of England. On its website, Thames Water wrote, "We work hard to improve the quality of your drinking water. Every year we carry out more than 500,000 tests. We take samples from our water mains and pipes, as well as from customers' taps. Since 2010, more than 99.95% of tests taken from customers’ taps met the standard required by UK and European legislation." (With inputs from agencies)

Britain’s Thames Water tests samples amid contamination fears after illnesses reported

India held the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on Saturday, with an average voter turnout of above 59 per cent. The figure is likely to go above 60 per cent as the Election Commission of India (ECI) will update the numbers in a day or two. In other news, a&nbsp;massive fire broke out at a gaming zone in Gujarat's Rajkot&nbsp;earlier in the day, killing at least 20 people, including children. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Meanwhile, news agency Reuters reported citing a source that truce talks between Hamas and Israel are likely to resume next week.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-phase-6-5906-pc-voter-turnout-recorded-west-bengal-leads-with-7819-pc-725398">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Phase 6 polls marred by violence, 59.06 pc voter turnout recorded</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/25/433835-succession-2024-05-25t211334671.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections for 58 parliamentary constituencies witnessed a cumulative voter turnout of 59.06 per cent, as per the data shared by the Election Commission on Saturday (May 25).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-truce-talks-likely-to-resume-next-week-as-pressure-piles-on-pm-netanyahu-725372">Israel-Hamas war: Truce talks likely to resume next week as pressure piles on PM Netanyahu&nbsp;</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/29/428205-israel-hamas-war-5.png?imwidth=400" />

Truce talks between Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israel are all set to resume next week, who have been fighting in Gaza since October 7 last year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-massive-fire-breaks-out-at-gaming-zone-in-rajkot-multiple-casualties-feared-725378">VIDEO: Over 20, including children, dead as massive fire engulfs gaming zone in Rajkot</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/25/433821-gujarat-fire.png?imwidth=400" />

Over 20, including children, lost their lives as&nbsp;a massive fire broke out at the TRP Game Zone in Rajkot, Gujarat on Saturday (May 25), local media reported with the toll expected to rise. Reports said that many are still feared trapped.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-poll-body-pulls-up-pm-modis-bjp-removes-communal-instagram-posts-725331">India's poll body pulls up PM Modi's BJP, gets Meta to remove 'communal' posts</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/25/433798-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

India's&nbsp;top poll body slammed Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi's&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday (May 24), while&nbsp;pulling&nbsp;down three Instagram posts that the opposition dubbed as&nbsp;"communal".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/angry-mob-in-pakistan-burns-down-christian-mans-house-over-alleged-desecration-of-quran-725361">Angry mob in Pakistan burns down Christian man’s house over alleged blasphemy</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/25/433815-succession-2024-05-25t192324419.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Police arrested at least 25 people in Pakistan's Punjab province after reports of an angry mob torturing a person from the minority Christian community surfaced.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-of-india-releases-constituency-wise-voting-data-725345">Election Commission of India releases constituency-wise voting data, slams critics</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/25/433804-new-wion-2024-05-25t181813612.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday (May 25) released the constituency-wise voting data from the first five phases of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This comes amid a public discourse over the lack of official voter turnout data.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-kills-two-hezbollah-fighters-in-syria-725335">Israeli drone strike kills two Hezbollah fighters in Syria</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/25/433799-succession-2024-05-25t175132728.jpg?imwidth=400" />

An Israeli drone strike in central Syria killed two Hezbollah fighters on Saturday (May 25), said a war monitor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-beheads-boss-after-stealing-400000-from-him-to-hide-theft-from-girlfriend-725298">Man in US beheads boss after stealing $400,000 from him to hide theft from girlfriend</a>

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A personal assistant of a tech CEO in the US accepted that he beheaded his boss after stealing&nbsp;$400,000 to hide his theft from his girlfriend, said his attorney on Friday (May 24).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/manchester-united-outplay-arch-rivals-city-to-clinch-13th-fa-cup-title-at-wembley-725401">Manchester United outplay arch-rivals City to clinch 13th FA Cup title at Wembley</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/25/433834-fa-cup-final-1.png?imwidth=400" />

Manchester United outclassed arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final as they lifted their 13th title in England’s oldest football competition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/actor-anasuya-sengupta-makes-history-at-cannes-becomes-first-indian-to-win-acting-award-725160">Actor Anasuya Sengupta makes history at Cannes! Becomes first Indian to win acting award</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/25/433707-happy-30th-birthday-2024-05-25t092203890.png?imwidth=400" />

What a historic moment! Actor Anasuya Sengupta has made history, by becoming the first Indian to win an acting award at the Cannes Film Festival.

&nbsp;

India held the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on Saturday, with an average voter turnout of above 59 per cent. The figure is likely to go above 60 per cent as the Election Commission of India (ECI) will update the numbers in a day or two.

India held the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on Saturday, with an average voter turnout of above 59 per cent. The figure is likely to go above 60 per cent as the Election Commission of India (ECI) will update the numbers in a day or two. In other news, a massive fire broke out at a gaming zone in Gujarat's Rajkot earlier in the day, killing at least 20 people, including children. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Meanwhile, news agency Reuters reported citing a source that truce talks between Hamas and Israel are likely to resume next week. Click on the headlines to read more. Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Phase 6 polls marred by violence, 59.06 pc voter turnout recorded The sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections for 58 parliamentary constituencies witnessed a cumulative voter turnout of 59.06 per cent, as per the data shared by the Election Commission on Saturday (May 25). Israel-Hamas war: Truce talks likely to resume next week as pressure piles on PM Netanyahu Truce talks between Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israel are all set to resume next week, who have been fighting in Gaza since October 7 last year. VIDEO: Over 20, including children, dead as massive fire engulfs gaming zone in Rajkot Over 20, including children, lost their lives as a massive fire broke out at the TRP Game Zone in Rajkot, Gujarat on Saturday (May 25), local media reported with the toll expected to rise. Reports said that many are still feared trapped. India's poll body pulls up PM Modi's BJP, gets Meta to remove 'communal' posts India's top poll body slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday (May 24), while pulling down three Instagram posts that the opposition dubbed as "communal". Angry mob in Pakistan burns down Christian man’s house over alleged blasphemy Police arrested at least 25 people in Pakistan's Punjab province after reports of an angry mob torturing a person from the minority Christian community surfaced. Election Commission of India releases constituency-wise voting data, slams critics The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday (May 25) released the constituency-wise voting data from the first five phases of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This comes amid a public discourse over the lack of official voter turnout data. Israeli drone strike kills two Hezbollah fighters in Syria An Israeli drone strike in central Syria killed two Hezbollah fighters on Saturday (May 25), said a war monitor. Man in US beheads boss after stealing $400,000 from him to hide theft from girlfriend A personal assistant of a tech CEO in the US accepted that he beheaded his boss after stealing $400,000 to hide his theft from his girlfriend, said his attorney on Friday (May 24). Manchester United outplay arch-rivals City to clinch 13th FA Cup title at Wembley Manchester United outclassed arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final as they lifted their 13th title in England’s oldest football competition. Actor Anasuya Sengupta makes history at Cannes! Becomes first Indian to win acting award What a historic moment! Actor Anasuya Sengupta has made history, by becoming the first Indian to win an acting award at the Cannes Film Festival.

Top 10 world news: 59.06% turnout recorded in phase 6 polls; 20 dead in fire at Gujarat game zone; and more

At least four people have been killed and more than 300 others&nbsp;buried after a massive landslide levelled a remote village in northern Papua New Guinea, reported Reuters citing the local media, on Saturday (May 25). The toll is expected to rise as&nbsp;hundreds are feared trapped under the rubble after the landslide struck the region late Friday.&nbsp;

<h2>At least four killed, over 300 buried</h2>

According to Papua New Guinea Post Courier newspaper, Aimos Akem, a member of the country’s parliament, said that the landslide in the Pacific nation north of Australia buried more than 300 people and 1,182 houses.

WATCH |&nbsp;More than 100 people feared dead in 'massive' landslide

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Meanwhile, the Australian Broadcasting Corp (ABC) reported that four bodies had been recovered from the site after emergency teams arrived. The death toll is expected to rise it further said.

A landslide hit Kaokalam village in Enga Province which is around 600 kilometres northwest of the capital of the Papua New Guinea capital city of Port Moresby around 3:00 am (local time), on Friday (May 24).&nbsp;

According to government officials, many villagers were at home asleep at the time of the landslide and did not have time to leave.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-people-estimated-to-be-killed-in-landslide-in-papua-new-guinea-724797">Over 100 people estimated to be killed in landslide in Papua New Guinea: Report</a>

Steven Kandai, a community leader at the scene, told news agency AFP,&nbsp;“All of a sudden there was a big landslip. The mountain just collapsed all of a sudden while people were still sleeping." Their homes were “completely buried", he further said.&nbsp;

<h2>Search and rescue efforts underway</h2>

“At this time, we are still searching for bodies who are buried by the massive landslide,” said community leader Mark Ipuia, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

“There are a lot of houses under the debris that cannot be reached,” a United Nations official based in the capital Port Moresby, Serhan Aktoprak, told AFP on Saturday morning, adding that around 3,000 people called the hillside settlement home.&nbsp;

He added, “The land continues to slide and move, and that makes it dangerous for people to operate.”&nbsp;

Prime Minister James Marape, as per Reuters said disaster officials, the Defence Force and the Department of Works and Highways were assisting with relief and recovery efforts.

According to Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), more than six villages have been impacted by the landslide.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chilean-firefighter-arrested-for-allegedly-igniting-feb-blaze-that-killed-137-in-vina-del-mar-725107">Chilean firefighter arrested for allegedly igniting Feb blaze that killed 137 in Vina del Mar</a>

“Australia’s High Commission in Port Moresby is in close contact with PNG authorities for further assessments on the extent of the damage and casualties,” said a DFAT spokesperson, in a statement.&nbsp;

The landslide has since blocked highway access, making helicopters the only way to reach the site, reported ABC News.&nbsp;

AFP citing aid agencies said that the catastrophe had effectively wiped out the village’s livestock, food gardens and sources of clean water.

Images from the site show a massive chunk of the densely vegetated Mount Mungalo was gone, while barefoot workers used shovels, axes and improvised tools to loosen and shift the earth.&nbsp;

Dozens of locals reportedly scrambled over the piles of rock and soil looking for survivors. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

At least four people have been killed and more than 300 others buried after a massive landslide levelled a remote village in northern Papua New Guinea, reported Reuters citing the local media, on Saturday (May 25).

At least four people have been killed and more than 300 others buried after a massive landslide levelled a remote village in northern Papua New Guinea, reported Reuters citing the local media, on Saturday (May 25). The toll is expected to rise as hundreds are feared trapped under the rubble after the landslide struck the region late Friday. At least four killed, over 300 buried According to Papua New Guinea Post Courier newspaper, Aimos Akem, a member of the country’s parliament, said that the landslide in the Pacific nation north of Australia buried more than 300 people and 1,182 houses. WATCH | More than 100 people feared dead in 'massive' landslide Meanwhile, the Australian Broadcasting Corp (ABC) reported that four bodies had been recovered from the site after emergency teams arrived. The death toll is expected to rise it further said. A landslide hit Kaokalam village in Enga Province which is around 600 kilometres northwest of the capital of the Papua New Guinea capital city of Port Moresby around 3:00 am (local time), on Friday (May 24). According to government officials, many villagers were at home asleep at the time of the landslide and did not have time to leave. Also Read | Over 100 people estimated to be killed in landslide in Papua New Guinea: Report Steven Kandai, a community leader at the scene, told news agency AFP, “All of a sudden there was a big landslip. The mountain just collapsed all of a sudden while people were still sleeping." Their homes were “completely buried", he further said. Search and rescue efforts underway “At this time, we are still searching for bodies who are buried by the massive landslide,” said community leader Mark Ipuia, as quoted by AFP. “There are a lot of houses under the debris that cannot be reached,” a United Nations official based in the capital Port Moresby, Serhan Aktoprak, told AFP on Saturday morning, adding that around 3,000 people called the hillside settlement home. He added, “The land continues to slide and move, and that makes it dangerous for people to operate.” Prime Minister James Marape, as per Reuters said disaster officials, the Defence Force and the Department of Works and Highways were assisting with relief and recovery efforts. According to Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), more than six villages have been impacted by the landslide. Also Read | Chilean firefighter arrested for allegedly igniting Feb blaze that killed 137 in Vina del Mar “Australia’s High Commission in Port Moresby is in close contact with PNG authorities for further assessments on the extent of the damage and casualties,” said a DFAT spokesperson, in a statement. The landslide has since blocked highway access, making helicopters the only way to reach the site, reported ABC News. AFP citing aid agencies said that the catastrophe had effectively wiped out the village’s livestock, food gardens and sources of clean water. Images from the site show a massive chunk of the densely vegetated Mount Mungalo was gone, while barefoot workers used shovels, axes and improvised tools to loosen and shift the earth. Dozens of locals reportedly scrambled over the piles of rock and soil looking for survivors. (With inputs from agencies)

Papua New Guinea landslide: At least 4 killed, over 300 buried as rescue teams rush to save trapped villagers

India on Saturday (May 25) began voting in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections in 58 constituencies. By the end of this phase, the voting will be completed in 486 of the 543 Lok Sabha seats.

India on Saturday (May 25) began voting in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections in 58 constituencies. By the end of this phase, the voting will be completed in 486 of the 543 Lok Sabha seats. The remaining 57 Lok Sabha seats will go to polls on June 1, the seventh and final phase of polling. Israel has hinted that it is not likely to change the course in the Rafah invasion despite the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordering Israel to halt the widening offensive in the Gaza Strip. In other news from around the world, three missionaries were killed in an attack by gangs in Haiti's capital city of Port-au-Prince on Thursday, (May 23). Click on the headlines to read more: Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 6: Voting underway across 58 seats as bigwigs wrest for power The voting for the sixth of India's seven-phase elections began on May 25 across 58 constituencies of Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament directly elected by the people. By the end of May 25, the voting will be completed in 486 of the 543 Lok Sabha seats. Israel unlikely to halt Rafah invasion after ICJ ruling as Netanyahu opts to remain silent Israel War Cabinet's member Benny Gantz hinted that the military of the country is not likely to change its course in the Rafah invasion even after the top UN court on Friday (May 24) gave the order to halt the widening offensive. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to immediately stop the ongoing military offensive in Rafah, which is located in southern Gaza. However, it did not order a complete ceasefire. Three missionaries, including daughter of Missouri politician, killed in Haiti gang attack Three missionaries, including the daughter of Missouri state representative Ben Baker and her husband, were killed in an attack by gangs in the Haitian capital city of Port-au-Prince on Thursday (May 23) evening. The American couple - Davy and Natalie Lloyd and the director of an Oklahoma-based missionary group 45-year-old Jude Montis were the victims of the gang attack. Oscar-nominated filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, who ate McDonald's for a month, dies at 53 Morgan Spurlock, an Oscar-nominated documentary filmmaker, who ate McDonald's for a month to illustrate the dangers of a fast food diet, has died at the age of 53, American media reported on Friday (May 24). Spurlock's most famous works skewered the United States' (US) food industry. Watch | Heatwaves scorch North India, IMD issues red alert ×

Morning brief: India votes in Phase 6 of Lok Sabha polls; Gaza war updates, and more

In response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, WHO Member States have concluded intensive negotiations to boost global capacities for future pandemics, however, the countries failed to reach a consensus and had some 'divergent views'. The member states&nbsp;will now submit the outcomes of the discussions for consideration by the upcoming World Health Assembly scheduled to kick off&nbsp;on Monday (May 27).

As the world grappled with the multifaceted challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, one glaring issue stood out - vaccine inequity. Despite the scientific achievement of developing multiple vaccines in record time, access to these life-saving doses remains vastly unequal across the globe, deepening the disparities in health outcomes between wealthy and low-income nations.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-unlikely-to-halt-rafah-invasion-after-icj-ruling-as-netanyahu-opts-to-remain-silent-725145">Israel unlikely to halt Rafah invasion after ICJ ruling as Netanyahu opts to remain silent</a>

"Two parallel negotiation processes were undertaken to make a series of amendments to the International Health Regulations (2005) and to develop a first-ever pandemic agreement, convention or other legal instrument," WHO said.&nbsp;

“The world must not take its focus off the job at hand, which is to ensure the world is better protected from the next pandemic. This will require continuous commitment and action from all parties to build the world’s collective defenses," said Precious Matsoso, co-chair of South Africa.&nbsp;

<h2>Decade of progress undone&nbsp;</h2>

The COVID-19 pandemic has undone nearly a decade of progress in global life expectancy, according to the latest edition of the World Health Statistics released by the World Health Organization (WHO). A report, unveiled on Friday (May 24), highlighted the setbacks experienced between 2019 and 2021, where life expectancy at birth dropped by 1.8 years to 71.4 years, reverting to levels last seen in 2012.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lloyd-austin-to-undergo-non-surgical-procedure-linked-to-bladder-issue-deputy-hicks-to-assume-duties-725114">Lloyd Austin to undergo 'non-surgical' procedure linked to bladder issue, deputy Hicks to assume duties</a>

Similarly, healthy life expectancy (HALE) decreased by 1.5 years to 61.9 years. WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted, "In just two years, the COVID-19 pandemic erased a decade of gains in life expectancy. That's why the new Pandemic Agreement is so important: not only to strengthen global health security, but to protect long-term investments in health and promote equity within and between countries.”

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-top-un-court-orders-israel-to-halt-rafah-offensive-in-gaza-725142">Israel-Hamas War: Top UN court orders Israel to halt Rafah offensive in Gaza</a>

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The Americas and South-East Asia saw the most decline, with life expectancy falling by approximately three years and healthy life expectancy by 2.5 years. In contrast, the Western Pacific Region experienced minimal impact, with losses of less than 0.1 years in life expectancy and 0.2 years in HALE.

COVID-19 quickly became a leading cause of death worldwide, ranking third in 2020 and second in 2021, resulting in nearly 13 million deaths over two years.

(With inputs from agencies)

In response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, WHO Member States have concluded intensive negotiations to boost global capacities for future pandemics, however, the countries failed to reach a consensus and had some 'divergent views'.

In response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, WHO Member States have concluded intensive negotiations to boost global capacities for future pandemics, however, the countries failed to reach a consensus and had some 'divergent views'. The member states will now submit the outcomes of the discussions for consideration by the upcoming World Health Assembly scheduled to kick off on Monday (May 27). As the world grappled with the multifaceted challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, one glaring issue stood out - vaccine inequity. Despite the scientific achievement of developing multiple vaccines in record time, access to these life-saving doses remains vastly unequal across the globe, deepening the disparities in health outcomes between wealthy and low-income nations. Also Read | Israel unlikely to halt Rafah invasion after ICJ ruling as Netanyahu opts to remain silent "Two parallel negotiation processes were undertaken to make a series of amendments to the International Health Regulations (2005) and to develop a first-ever pandemic agreement, convention or other legal instrument," WHO said. “The world must not take its focus off the job at hand, which is to ensure the world is better protected from the next pandemic. This will require continuous commitment and action from all parties to build the world’s collective defenses," said Precious Matsoso, co-chair of South Africa. Decade of progress undone The COVID-19 pandemic has undone nearly a decade of progress in global life expectancy, according to the latest edition of the World Health Statistics released by the World Health Organization (WHO). A report, unveiled on Friday (May 24), highlighted the setbacks experienced between 2019 and 2021, where life expectancy at birth dropped by 1.8 years to 71.4 years, reverting to levels last seen in 2012. Also Read | Lloyd Austin to undergo 'non-surgical' procedure linked to bladder issue, deputy Hicks to assume duties Similarly, healthy life expectancy (HALE) decreased by 1.5 years to 61.9 years. WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted, "In just two years, the COVID-19 pandemic erased a decade of gains in life expectancy. That's why the new Pandemic Agreement is so important: not only to strengthen global health security, but to protect long-term investments in health and promote equity within and between countries.” Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Top UN court orders Israel to halt Rafah offensive in Gaza × The Americas and South-East Asia saw the most decline, with life expectancy falling by approximately three years and healthy life expectancy by 2.5 years. In contrast, the Western Pacific Region experienced minimal impact, with losses of less than 0.1 years in life expectancy and 0.2 years in HALE. COVID-19 quickly became a leading cause of death worldwide, ranking third in 2020 and second in 2021, resulting in nearly 13 million deaths over two years. (With inputs from agencies)

Nations fail to agree over 1st ever pandemic agreement; Covid erases decade of progress in life expectancy

The UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has issued a warning for an “above average” hurricane season in the North Atlantic in 2024. Watch in for more details!

North Atlantic hurricane season could be a dangerous one

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