Nigerian Navy discovers 99,000 litres of suspected stolen, illegally refined products as it intensifies anti-crude oil theft operations

Who is Aditi Paudel? 17-year-old becomes Japan's first literacy ambassador

What are the challenges Congo is facing in containing Ebola outbreak?

Why US tanks can spin their heavy turrets much faster than Russian tanks

Bolivia turns to crypto amid dollar crunch

‘Major escalation’: Zelensky accuses Russia of targeting SBU chief’s office

Women's Asia Cup 2026: India's Smriti Mandhana is now best batter ever in women's cricket

South Korea mulls military deployment in Hormuz amid Trump’s pressure

Breaking | Vance takes the podium: First White House briefing since Leavitt's exit

Indian agencies uncover hawala, shell firms and fake trade used to hide illicit money, FATF says

Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, who shot down Pak fighter jet retires, takes up private job

Bangladesh batter Towhid Hridoy creates history with 350 not out in South Africa

Brendan Fraser’s transformation fuels The Mummy 4 excitement as fans welcome back Rick O’Connell

‘Thank you for your friendship’: Meloni thanks PM Modi for wishes as she sets Italy’s postwar record

Missed Vikrant Massey in Mirzapur: The Movie? Here’s what the actor has to say about the film

Krishna Janmashtami 2026: From Dhaniya Panjiri to Makhana Kheer- 5 best sweet dishes perfect for celebrating Lord Krishna’s birth

EAM Jaishankar: Russia-Ukraine conflict is a war ‘without winners’

Lindsay Clancy murder trial: Tensions rise as juror disputes over 'reasonable doubt' as verdict remains elusive

‘I wouldn’t call it a war,’ says JD Vance on ongoing conflict with Iran

Iran's army conducts drone & missile attack on US bases

Husband uses secret camera to record wife’s affair, wins divorce case, ends up in jail for spying

Russia-Ukraine truce in sight? Trump sends US envoys with 'peace plan'; Zelensky offerst emporary ceasefire

BRICS by numbers: Global GDP share, trade share, intra-BRICS settlement volumes and NDB disbursements — All you need to know

Asian Games 2026: VVS Laxman back as India men's head coach for Shreyas Iyer-led side

Why Russian fighter jets use bulky, low-pressure tyres compared to US jets

Why US tanks weigh over 20 tons more than Russian tanks

Mirzapur: The Movie X review: ‘Peak Mass Entertainer', netizens praise Pankaj Tripathi and Ali Fazal's thriller

New Friday OTT releases (September 4, 2026): GDN, Dhamaal 4, Jagamae Sangeetham- Watch 6 new movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Iran attacks US bases in Kuwait & UAE, supersecret missile project in focus | Gravitas

Killing the Himalayas slowly: Human urine is melting a glacier on Mount Everest

An infected blood scandal in Britain was no accident but the fault of doctors and a succession of governments that led to 3,000 deaths and thousands more contracting hepatitis or HIV, a public inquiry reported on Monday. Watch in for more details!

UK's infected blood scandal: 6 year probe reveals chilling details

Iran is carrying out a probe into the cause of the helicopter crash. This crash killed Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and all those on board. Mohammad Bagheri, Iran's military chief of staff, has ordered a high-ranked delegation to investigate into the cause of the helicopter crash.

Raisi's chopper crash: Major general Bhagheri initiates probe into chopper crash

Large crowds of Iranian mourners received the coffins of Iranian president, Ebrahim Raisi. A funeral procession for Ebrahim Raisi and Hossein Amirabdollahian began in Tabriz. Both the leaders were killed in a helicopter crash.

Iran President chopper crash: Funeral procession of Raisi to be held in various Iranian cities

If you use an iPhone, iPad or Mac you have a reason to worry. New vulnerabilities have been spotted in Apple software. The Indian computer Emergency Response Team which is the country's nodal Agency for cyber security related matters has issued a high severity warning for Apple users. The warning highlights multiple vulnerabilities that pose serious risks to the security of iPads, Macs and iPhones. Watch in for more details!

Indian government issues warning for Apple users

Watch top headlines of the hour: - French President to visit New Caledonia - State funeral of Iranian President - Mourner's gather for Raisi's funeral procession - Ukraine Navy: Sunk Russian warship - Syrian first lady diagnosed with Leukemia - Germany: Ukraine needs air defences urgently

French President to visit New Caledonia | Syrian first lady diagnosed with Leukemia

Raisi's chopper crash: Iran begins probe in chopper crash

<p>The Trump campaign has come out strongly against <em>The Apprentice,</em> a film that shocked audiences at Cannes with its portrayal of former US president Donald Trump raping his first wife, Ivana Trump, among other things.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesperson of the campaign confirmed that the Republican plans to sue "to address the blatantly false assertions from these pretend filmmakers."</p>

<h2><strong>'Pure fiction'</strong></h2>

<p>In a conversation with Variety following the film's premiere, Trump's chief spokesperson Steven Cheung on Monday (May 20) slammed the movie, directed by Ali Abbasi and starring Sebastian Stan as Trump.</p>

<p>Cheung called it "garbage" and "pure fiction," saying it sensationalises "lies that have been long debunked."</p>

<p>"As with the illegal Biden Trials, this is election interference by Hollywood elites, who know that President Trump will retake the White House and beat their candidate of choice because nothing they have done has worked," said Cheung.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/donald-trump-biopic-hits-cannes-film-festival-723596">Donald Trump biopic hits Cannes Film Festival</a></strong></p>

<p>Labelling the film "pure malicious defamation," he said it "should not see the light of day, and doesn't even deserve a place in the straight-to-DVD section of a bargain bin at a soon-to-be-closed discount movie store, it belongs in a dumpster fire."</p>

<p><em>The Apprentice </em>received an eight-minute standing ovation at Cannes on Monday, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It includes scenes of Trump undergoing liposuction and scalp-reduction surgery.</p>

<p>However, the most controversial scene is where he rapes Ivana Trump.</p>

<p>Even though it opens with a disclaimer stating that the events are fictionalised, the movie has sparked intense reactions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-imposes-ban-on-viral-tiktok-song-which-idolises-norths-kim-jong-un-723819">South Korea imposes ban on viral TikTok song which idolises North's Kim Jong Un</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>The alleged rape</strong></h2>

<p>The rape scene is a dramatised version of an incident disclosed in the couple's 1990 divorce proceedings.</p>

<p>Ivana Trump initially described the 1989 incident as a rape but later retracted, stating that while she felt violated, she didn't mean it in a criminal sense.</p>

<p>"On one occasion during 1989, Mr Trump and I had marital relations in which he behaved very differently towards me than he had during our marriage. As a woman I felt violated … I referred to this as a rape, but I do not want my words to be interpreted in a literal or criminal sense," she said in a 1993 statement.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Trump campaign has come out strongly against The Apprentice, a film that shocked audiences at Cannes with its portrayal of former US president Donald Trump raping his first wife, Ivana Trump, among other things.

The Trump campaign has come out strongly against The Apprentice, a film that shocked audiences at Cannes with its portrayal of former US president Donald Trump raping his first wife, Ivana Trump, among other things. A spokesperson of the campaign confirmed that the Republican plans to sue "to address the blatantly false assertions from these pretend filmmakers." 'Pure fiction' In a conversation with Variety following the film's premiere, Trump's chief spokesperson Steven Cheung on Monday (May 20) slammed the movie, directed by Ali Abbasi and starring Sebastian Stan as Trump. Cheung called it "garbage" and "pure fiction," saying it sensationalises "lies that have been long debunked." "As with the illegal Biden Trials, this is election interference by Hollywood elites, who know that President Trump will retake the White House and beat their candidate of choice because nothing they have done has worked," said Cheung. Also read | Donald Trump biopic hits Cannes Film Festival Labelling the film "pure malicious defamation," he said it "should not see the light of day, and doesn't even deserve a place in the straight-to-DVD section of a bargain bin at a soon-to-be-closed discount movie store, it belongs in a dumpster fire." The Apprentice received an eight-minute standing ovation at Cannes on Monday, reports The Guardian. It includes scenes of Trump undergoing liposuction and scalp-reduction surgery. However, the most controversial scene is where he rapes Ivana Trump. Even though it opens with a disclaimer stating that the events are fictionalised, the movie has sparked intense reactions. Also read | South Korea imposes ban on viral TikTok song which idolises North's Kim Jong Un The alleged rape The rape scene is a dramatised version of an incident disclosed in the couple's 1990 divorce proceedings. Ivana Trump initially described the 1989 incident as a rape but later retracted, stating that while she felt violated, she didn't mean it in a criminal sense. "On one occasion during 1989, Mr Trump and I had marital relations in which he behaved very differently towards me than he had during our marriage. As a woman I felt violated … I referred to this as a rape, but I do not want my words to be interpreted in a literal or criminal sense," she said in a 1993 statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump campaign slams Cannes film 'The Apprentice,' labels it 'pure fiction'

As Iran investigates President Ebrahim Raisi's death the United States State Department has revealed that Iran had requested assistance but the US had been unable to provide help largely due to logistical reasons. The US State Department said Iran which had no diplomatic relations with Washington after the 1979 Islamic revolution.

Raisi crash: US Defence Secretary denies US role in Raisi's chopper crash

The long history of Jingjo carved preserved fruit is the product of women's superb craftsmanship that originated from the East Jo Dynasty and prevailed in the late five dynasties. The preserved fruit has been selected as an imperial tribute to the Royal Court for generations.

China: Carved fruit integrates food, folk cultures

A high-profile trial of members of a far right group accused of plotting a coup to overthrow the German government is set to begin in Frankfurt. Watch in for more details!

Germany: 9 accused of 'Reichsbuerger' coup plot go on trial

Ebrahim Raisi Funeral: Thousands mourn Iran's Raisi in Tabriz

<p>The office of President Bashar Assad announced on Tuesday (May 21) that Asma Assad, the first lady of Syria, has been diagnosed with leukemia.</p>

<p>The president’s wife was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia “after presenting with several symptoms and following a comprehensive series of medical tests and examinations,” the statement said.</p>

<p>She will “adhere to a specialised treatment protocol that includes stringent infection prevention measures” and “will temporarily withdraw from all direct engagements” as part of the treatment plan, it added.</p>

<div class="flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3">
<div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full">
<div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5 juice:w-full juice:items-end overflow-x-auto gap-2" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="cccfebbd-048c-4ce1-942c-4833de8c0e29" dir="auto">
<div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 juice:empty:hidden juice:first:pt-[3px]">
<div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert dark">
<p>Asma Assad, originally from central Syria but raised in the United Kingdom, had treatment for breast cancer before.</p>

<p>In August 2019, she said she was completely free of the disease a year after being diagnosed.</p>

<p>She is a controversial figure, facing sanctions from Western countries and sparking strong reactions during the Syrian conflict.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/understanding-why-cancer-rates-are-rising-among-younger-generations-689181">Also read | Understanding why cancer rates are rising among younger generations</a></p>

<div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full">
<div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5 juice:w-full juice:items-end overflow-x-auto gap-2" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="889ffba7-f196-46d9-816c-16235db89ace" dir="auto">
<div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 juice:empty:hidden juice:first:pt-[3px]">
<div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert dark">
<p>Before marrying President Bashar Assad in 2000, she worked as an investment banker.</p>

<p>Since the marriage, she has been active in public roles, supporting civil and charitable organisations.</p>

<p>However, critics accuse her of using her British education and Western lifestyle to deflect attention from her husband's harsh suppression of dissent.</p>

<p>The conflict, which started in March 2011 with peaceful protests against Assad's government, has led to nearly half a million deaths and displaced half of Syria's pre-war population of 23 million.</p>

<p>The protests were met with severe repression, escalating swiftly into a devastating civil war.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/new-research-finds-link-between-talcum-powder-use-and-ovarian-cancer-723160">Also read | New research finds link between talcum powder use and ovarian cancer</a></p>

<h2><strong>Symptoms to watch out for</strong></h2>

<p>Early signs of leukemia can vary depending on the type of leukemia and individual factors, but common early symptoms may include:</p>

<ol>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Fatigue</strong>: Feeling unusually tired or weak, even with adequate rest.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Frequent infections</strong>: Recurrent infections or infections that are difficult to recover from.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Bruising or bleeding</strong>: Unexplained bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or bleeding gums.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Pale skin</strong>: A paler complexion than usual, possibly due to anemia.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Joint or bone pain</strong>: Pain or tenderness in the bones or joints.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Swollen lymph nodes</strong>: Enlarged lymph nodes, often in the neck, armpits, or groin.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Unexplained weight loss</strong>: Losing weight without trying or without a clear cause.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Fever</strong>: Persistent or frequent fevers that are not caused by infections.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Night sweats</strong>: Excessive sweating, particularly at night.</p>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, so a thorough medical evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The office of President Bashar Assad announced on Tuesday (May 21) that Asma Assad, the first lady of Syria, has been diagnosed with leukemia. The president’s wife was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia “after presenting with several symptoms and following a comprehensive series of medical tests and examinations,” the statement said.

The office of President Bashar Assad announced on Tuesday (May 21) that Asma Assad, the first lady of Syria, has been diagnosed with leukemia. The president’s wife was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia “after presenting with several symptoms and following a comprehensive series of medical tests and examinations,” the statement said. She will “adhere to a specialised treatment protocol that includes stringent infection prevention measures” and “will temporarily withdraw from all direct engagements” as part of the treatment plan, it added. Asma Assad, originally from central Syria but raised in the United Kingdom, had treatment for breast cancer before. In August 2019, she said she was completely free of the disease a year after being diagnosed. She is a controversial figure, facing sanctions from Western countries and sparking strong reactions during the Syrian conflict. Also read | Understanding why cancer rates are rising among younger generations Before marrying President Bashar Assad in 2000, she worked as an investment banker. Since the marriage, she has been active in public roles, supporting civil and charitable organisations. However, critics accuse her of using her British education and Western lifestyle to deflect attention from her husband's harsh suppression of dissent. The conflict, which started in March 2011 with peaceful protests against Assad's government, has led to nearly half a million deaths and displaced half of Syria's pre-war population of 23 million. The protests were met with severe repression, escalating swiftly into a devastating civil war. Also read | New research finds link between talcum powder use and ovarian cancer Symptoms to watch out for Early signs of leukemia can vary depending on the type of leukemia and individual factors, but common early symptoms may include: Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak, even with adequate rest. Frequent infections: Recurrent infections or infections that are difficult to recover from. Bruising or bleeding: Unexplained bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or bleeding gums. Pale skin: A paler complexion than usual, possibly due to anemia. Joint or bone pain: Pain or tenderness in the bones or joints. Swollen lymph nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes, often in the neck, armpits, or groin. Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying or without a clear cause. Fever: Persistent or frequent fevers that are not caused by infections. Night sweats: Excessive sweating, particularly at night. It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, so a thorough medical evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary for an accurate diagnosis. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Asma Assad, Syria's first lady diagnosed with blood cancer?

The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has applied for arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Hamas leaders for alleged war crimes. Netanyahu rejects prosecutors arrest bid. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: ICC Prosecutor's move absurd, comparison to Hamas shameful, says Netanyahu

Watch top headlines of the hour: - State funeral of Iranian President - Mourner's gather for Raisi's funeral procession - Ukraine Navy: Sunk Russian warship - Syrian first lady diagnosed with Leukemia - Germany: Ukraine needs air defences urgently

Syrian first lady diagnosed with Leukemia | State funeral of Iranian President

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid4kU0Ie7cWX3g" /></p>

<p>The 21 crew members, who were aboard the ship that rammed into Baltimore bridge and caused its collapse, are facing a "tough" time as they&nbsp;still&nbsp;remain stuck in the vessel for 55 days, as per media reports.</p>

<p>The crew, 20 Indians and one Sri Lankan, have been forced to remain on board since the disaster happened on March 26, in which the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed and six construction workers were killed.</p>

<p>The crew scrambled to find survivors after the collision, got their phones confiscated by FBI agents and braved multiple controlled explosions to break the chunk of the bridge which was stuck atop the ship’s bow.</p>

<p>“It has been tough for the seafarers, primarily (because) they know that there’s been a loss of life,” said Gwee Guo Duan, who is an assistant general secretary of the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union, while speaking to CNN.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crashed-ship-that-took-down-francis-scott-key-bridge-finally-on-the-move-723602">Cargo ship Dali that struck Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge finally moves towards port</a></p>

<p>Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union is among those representing the crew members on the Singapore-flagged ship.</p>

<p>“It is tough for them, being on board and having to look at the accident site every single day," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Crew members' US visas have expired, are given temporary phones</strong></h2>

<p>According to the US maritime rules, minimum staffing needs to be maintained at all times so that the crew is available when machinery aboard is running and something goes wrong.</p>

<p>Also, the US visas of the crew members, which allow them to leave the boat, have expired.</p>

<p>The owner of Dali Ship Synergy Marine's officials said that the crew members have been well-supplied and the 21 men have been busy with maintenance and other work. They added that they also have access to mental health services.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US: Ships to resume Baltimore operations, container ship now buoyant</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-ships-to-resume-baltimore-operations-container-ship-now-buoyant-723823/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Singaporean unions said the crew members have been distressed because of an “unfounded” fear that officials will hold them personally liable for the incident.</p>

<p>Port chaplain and Executive Director for Baltimore International Seafarers’ Centre Reverend Messick said he was alarmed when he heard that the FBI seized the seamans’ cellphones in April.</p>

<p>Temporary phones have been given to the crew but they cannot access their SIM cards or data which was present in their original phones.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The 21 crew members, who were aboard the ship that rammed into Baltimore bridge and caused its collapse, are facing a "tough" time as they still remain stuck in the vessel for 55 days, as per media reports.

The 21 crew members, who were aboard the ship that rammed into Baltimore bridge and caused its collapse, are facing a "tough" time as they still remain stuck in the vessel for 55 days, as per media reports. The crew, 20 Indians and one Sri Lankan, have been forced to remain on board since the disaster happened on March 26, in which the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed and six construction workers were killed. The crew scrambled to find survivors after the collision, got their phones confiscated by FBI agents and braved multiple controlled explosions to break the chunk of the bridge which was stuck atop the ship’s bow. “It has been tough for the seafarers, primarily (because) they know that there’s been a loss of life,” said Gwee Guo Duan, who is an assistant general secretary of the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union, while speaking to CNN. Also Read: Cargo ship Dali that struck Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge finally moves towards port Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union is among those representing the crew members on the Singapore-flagged ship. “It is tough for them, being on board and having to look at the accident site every single day," he added. Crew members' US visas have expired, are given temporary phones According to the US maritime rules, minimum staffing needs to be maintained at all times so that the crew is available when machinery aboard is running and something goes wrong. Also, the US visas of the crew members, which allow them to leave the boat, have expired. The owner of Dali Ship Synergy Marine's officials said that the crew members have been well-supplied and the 21 men have been busy with maintenance and other work. They added that they also have access to mental health services. Watch: US: Ships to resume Baltimore operations, container ship now buoyant The Singaporean unions said the crew members have been distressed because of an “unfounded” fear that officials will hold them personally liable for the incident. Port chaplain and Executive Director for Baltimore International Seafarers’ Centre Reverend Messick said he was alarmed when he heard that the FBI seized the seamans’ cellphones in April. Temporary phones have been given to the crew but they cannot access their SIM cards or data which was present in their original phones. (With inputs from agencies)

Baltimore bridge collapse: Crew members, mostly Indians, remain stuck on ship for 55 days, face 'tough time'

<p>Charges against nine Egyptian men accused over a 2023 migrant boat disaster off Greece were dropped on Tuesday, after a Greek court said it had no jurisdiction to hear the case as the shipwreck happened in international waters.</p>

<p>The men, aged between 21 and 41, were arrested hours after the boat sank and have remained in pre-trial detention since on charges of migrant smuggling, causing a shipwreck and participating in a criminal organisation. They have denied any wrongdoing.</p>

<p>The trial of nine Egyptian men accused of causing a shipwreck that killed hundreds of migrants off Greece last year began amid protests on Tuesday in the city of Kalamata.</p>

<p>Up to 700 migrants from Pakistan, Syria and Egypt boarded a fishing trawler in Libya that was bound for Italy but sank off the coast of Pylos, in southwestern Greece, on June 14. Some 104 survivors were rescued and 82 bodies were recovered in one of the deadliest boat accidents in the Mediterranean.</p>

<p>The Egyptian men, aged between 21 and 41, were arrested hours after the boat sank and have remained in police custody on charges of migrant smuggling, causing a shipwreck and participating in a criminal organisation. They deny any wrongdoing.</p>

<p>But international rights groups, defence lawyers and witnesses dispute that the men were to blame. Many claim that the coastguard was at fault, which it denies.</p>

<p>"What is ... unbearable is to convict a person for acts that he never committed and to paint his hands with blood through your own acts," defence lawyer Efi Doussi told journalists last week.</p>

<p>Early on Tuesday, the men, some of them wearing shirts, were brought into a packed courtroom as relatives, witnesses, and supporters watched from a distance.</p>

<p>Outside the court, protesters in support of the defendants briefly scuffled with police who had cordoned off the area.</p>

<p>"This crime will not be forgotten," protesters chanted. "We will become the voices of the dead."</p>

<p>Survivors told Reuters last year that a disastrous attempt by the coastguard to tow the boat caused it to capsize in some of the deepest waters in the Mediterranean.</p>

<p>Defence lawyers said the men were charged after a rushed investigation and on insufficient evidence. They accuse the coastguard of monitoring the vessel for hours before launching a rescue operation and that the coastguard tried to pull the boat into Italian waters. The coastguard has denied the accusations and has said that the those aboard the boat refused help.</p>


Charges against nine Egyptian men accused over a 2023 migrant boat disaster off Greece were dropped on Tuesday, after a Greek court said it had no jurisdiction to hear the case as the shipwreck happened in international waters.

Charges against nine Egyptian men accused over a 2023 migrant boat disaster off Greece were dropped on Tuesday, after a Greek court said it had no jurisdiction to hear the case as the shipwreck happened in international waters. The men, aged between 21 and 41, were arrested hours after the boat sank and have remained in pre-trial detention since on charges of migrant smuggling, causing a shipwreck and participating in a criminal organisation. They have denied any wrongdoing. The trial of nine Egyptian men accused of causing a shipwreck that killed hundreds of migrants off Greece last year began amid protests on Tuesday in the city of Kalamata. Up to 700 migrants from Pakistan, Syria and Egypt boarded a fishing trawler in Libya that was bound for Italy but sank off the coast of Pylos, in southwestern Greece, on June 14. Some 104 survivors were rescued and 82 bodies were recovered in one of the deadliest boat accidents in the Mediterranean. The Egyptian men, aged between 21 and 41, were arrested hours after the boat sank and have remained in police custody on charges of migrant smuggling, causing a shipwreck and participating in a criminal organisation. They deny any wrongdoing. But international rights groups, defence lawyers and witnesses dispute that the men were to blame. Many claim that the coastguard was at fault, which it denies. "What is ... unbearable is to convict a person for acts that he never committed and to paint his hands with blood through your own acts," defence lawyer Efi Doussi told journalists last week. Early on Tuesday, the men, some of them wearing shirts, were brought into a packed courtroom as relatives, witnesses, and supporters watched from a distance. Outside the court, protesters in support of the defendants briefly scuffled with police who had cordoned off the area. "This crime will not be forgotten," protesters chanted. "We will become the voices of the dead." Survivors told Reuters last year that a disastrous attempt by the coastguard to tow the boat caused it to capsize in some of the deepest waters in the Mediterranean. Defence lawyers said the men were charged after a rushed investigation and on insufficient evidence. They accuse the coastguard of monitoring the vessel for hours before launching a rescue operation and that the coastguard tried to pull the boat into Italian waters. The coastguard has denied the accusations and has said that the those aboard the boat refused help.

Charges dropped against nine men over 2023 migrant shipwreck off Greece

The Russian military said on Monday it had taken full control of the settlement of Bilohorivka in Ukraine’s Luhansk region but the Kyiv military said it was holding Moscow troops back in the area. The Russian Defence Ministry said in a statement its forces had taken up better positions in the area. What are these better positions given Russia's advancing line?

Russia Claims Control of Ukrainian Stronghold in Luhansk | In-Live Discussion

Six-year probe of UK's infected blood scandal reveals chilling details

<p>The United States on Monday (May 20) revealed that Iran had sought its help following the helicopter crash which killed President Ebrahim Raisi. Offering its condolences, Washington revealed that largely due to logistical reasons, it was unable to accept the Iranian request for assistance.</p>

<h2><strong>Logistical reasons</strong></h2>

<p>The rare request from Iran, which views America and Israel as adversaries, was disclosed by the US State Department at a news briefing.</p>

<p>"We were asked for assistance by the Iranian government. We did make clear to them that we would offer assistance, as we would do in response to any request by a foreign government in this sort of situation," Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ebrahim-raisi-death-vp-mokhber-to-serve-as-interim-president-nuclear-negotiator-bagheri-as-acting-fm-of-iran-723510">Ebrahim Raisi death: VP Mokhber to serve as Iran’s interim president, nuclear negotiator Bagheri as acting FM</a></strong></p>

<p>Without elaborating, he added, "Ultimately, largely for logistical reasons, we were unable to provide that assistance."</p>

<h2><strong>Ebrahim Raisi death: Cause of crash</strong></h2>

<p>As per reports, Iran is yet to provide any official word on what may have caused the plane crash that claimed the lives of Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and six other passengers and crew.</p>

<p>The US-made Bell 212 helicopter crashed in mountains near the Azerbaijan border over the weekend, on Sunday (May 19). Its charred remains were found early on Monday.</p>

<p>Responding to a question on whether he was concerned that Tehran might blame Washington, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said: "The United States had no part to play in that crash."</p>

<p>"I can't speculate on what may have been the cause," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-presidents-last-image-aboard-helicopter-emerges-moments-before-fatal-crash-723393">Iranian President Raisi's last video aboard helicopter emerges moments before fatal crash</a></strong></p>

<p>He also played down any US concerns that the helicopter crash might have any security implications in the Middle East.</p>

<p>"I don't necessarily see any broader, regional security impact at this point," said Austin.</p>

<h2><strong>When will Iran elect its next president?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the constitution of Iran, the nation currently observing a five-day mourning has a maximum of 50 days before a presidential election must be held to choose Raisi's successor.</p>

<p>Article 131 of Iran's constitution states that a council consisting of the first vice president, the speaker of parliament, and the head of the judiciary must prepare the way for the election of a new president.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States on Monday (May 20) revealed that Iran had sought its help following the helicopter crash which killed President Ebrahim Raisi. Offering its condolences, Washington revealed that largely due to logistical reasons, it was unable to accept the Iranian request for assistance.

The United States on Monday (May 20) revealed that Iran had sought its help following the helicopter crash which killed President Ebrahim Raisi. Offering its condolences, Washington revealed that largely due to logistical reasons, it was unable to accept the Iranian request for assistance. Logistical reasons The rare request from Iran, which views America and Israel as adversaries, was disclosed by the US State Department at a news briefing. "We were asked for assistance by the Iranian government. We did make clear to them that we would offer assistance, as we would do in response to any request by a foreign government in this sort of situation," Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters. Also read | Ebrahim Raisi death: VP Mokhber to serve as Iran’s interim president, nuclear negotiator Bagheri as acting FM Without elaborating, he added, "Ultimately, largely for logistical reasons, we were unable to provide that assistance." Ebrahim Raisi death: Cause of crash As per reports, Iran is yet to provide any official word on what may have caused the plane crash that claimed the lives of Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and six other passengers and crew. The US-made Bell 212 helicopter crashed in mountains near the Azerbaijan border over the weekend, on Sunday (May 19). Its charred remains were found early on Monday. Responding to a question on whether he was concerned that Tehran might blame Washington, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said: "The United States had no part to play in that crash." "I can't speculate on what may have been the cause," he added. Also read | Iranian President Raisi's last video aboard helicopter emerges moments before fatal crash He also played down any US concerns that the helicopter crash might have any security implications in the Middle East. "I don't necessarily see any broader, regional security impact at this point," said Austin. When will Iran elect its next president? As per the constitution of Iran, the nation currently observing a five-day mourning has a maximum of 50 days before a presidential election must be held to choose Raisi's successor. Article 131 of Iran's constitution states that a council consisting of the first vice president, the speaker of parliament, and the head of the judiciary must prepare the way for the election of a new president. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran turned to US for assistance after Raisi helicopter crash; 'logistical issues' impeded help

Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu rejects ICC prosecutors arrest bid

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Mourner's gather for Raisi's funeral procession - Ukraine Navy: Sunk Russian warship - France backs ICC for seeking Bibi's arrest - New Caledonia: Cars charred amid unrest - Pune Porsche Crash: Crime branch to probe

Mourners gather for Raisi's funeral | UK to announce NHS blood scandal compensation | WION Headlines

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid4kU0Ie7cWX3g" /></p>

<p>South Korea banned a viral&nbsp;propaganda&nbsp;song from North Korea, which gained popularity in&nbsp;TikTok,&nbsp;because it idolised Pyongyang's leader Kim Jong Un as a "friendly father" and "great leader".</p>

<p>The media regulator of South Korea said that the music video, which gained massive popularity on TikTok after it was released in April, violated the National Security Act of the country.</p>

<p>"[The song] idolises Kim Jong Un and praises and glorifies him," said Seoul's Korea Communications Standards Commission, in a statement on Monday (May 20).</p>

<p>Access to the government websites and&nbsp;media of North Korea has been blocked under the Security Act which penalises behaviours and speeches that are in favour of Kim Jong Un's regime.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-multiple-ballistic-missiles-after-kims-sister-denies-supplying-arms-to-russia-722514">North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles after Kim's sister denies supplying arms to Russia</a></p>

<p>The Friendly Father music video's 29 versions will be blocked, said the commission, however, it did not say how it will be done.</p>

<p>The decision to block the song was taken after a request by South Korea's National Intelligence Service, it said.</p>

<p>“The video is typical content linked to psychological warfare against South Korea, as&nbsp;it was posted&nbsp;on a channel operated to connect with the outside world and&nbsp;is mainly focused&nbsp;on unilaterally idolising and glorifying Kim,” said the regulator.</p>

<h2><strong>South Koreans wish for no ban on the song to 'enjoy the joke'</strong></h2>

<p>South Koreans' interest&nbsp;in the viral song increased after the imposition of a ban was announced. Some South Koreans said that the video should be left accessible "so that more people can enjoy the joke".</p>

<p>"Friendly Father" has emerged as the latest among the pop songs being churned out by the propaganda machine of Pyongyang in the past 50 years.</p>

<p>In the catchy, bright-tempo song, Kim has been described as “father” and “the Great”, which are the terms that were earlier reserved for the first leader of North Korea Kim Il Sung.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;North Korea: Kim Jong Un oversees tactical missile system</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-kim-jong-un-oversees-tactical-missile-system-721882/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“Let’s sing Kim Jong Un, the great leader/ Let’s brag about Kim Jong Un, our friendly father,” the song goes.</p>

<p>Some&nbsp;TikTok users said that they play the song while exercising in the gym or doing homework, while others say that it has a nostalgic style which is a reminder of older Spanish and French pop music.</p>

<p>North Korea and South Korea were divided after&nbsp;the Korean War came to an end in 1953 with an armistice. No peace treaty was signed between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


South Korea banned a viral propaganda song from North Korea, which gained popularity in TikTok, because it idolised Pyongyang's leader Kim Jong Un as a "friendly father" and "great leader".

South Korea banned a viral propaganda song from North Korea, which gained popularity in TikTok, because it idolised Pyongyang's leader Kim Jong Un as a "friendly father" and "great leader". The media regulator of South Korea said that the music video, which gained massive popularity on TikTok after it was released in April, violated the National Security Act of the country. "[The song] idolises Kim Jong Un and praises and glorifies him," said Seoul's Korea Communications Standards Commission, in a statement on Monday (May 20). Access to the government websites and media of North Korea has been blocked under the Security Act which penalises behaviours and speeches that are in favour of Kim Jong Un's regime. Also Read: North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles after Kim's sister denies supplying arms to Russia The Friendly Father music video's 29 versions will be blocked, said the commission, however, it did not say how it will be done. The decision to block the song was taken after a request by South Korea's National Intelligence Service, it said. “The video is typical content linked to psychological warfare against South Korea, as it was posted on a channel operated to connect with the outside world and is mainly focused on unilaterally idolising and glorifying Kim,” said the regulator. South Koreans wish for no ban on the song to 'enjoy the joke' South Koreans' interest in the viral song increased after the imposition of a ban was announced. Some South Koreans said that the video should be left accessible "so that more people can enjoy the joke". "Friendly Father" has emerged as the latest among the pop songs being churned out by the propaganda machine of Pyongyang in the past 50 years. In the catchy, bright-tempo song, Kim has been described as “father” and “the Great”, which are the terms that were earlier reserved for the first leader of North Korea Kim Il Sung. Watch: North Korea: Kim Jong Un oversees tactical missile system “Let’s sing Kim Jong Un, the great leader/ Let’s brag about Kim Jong Un, our friendly father,” the song goes. Some TikTok users said that they play the song while exercising in the gym or doing homework, while others say that it has a nostalgic style which is a reminder of older Spanish and French pop music. North Korea and South Korea were divided after the Korean War came to an end in 1953 with an armistice. No peace treaty was signed between the two countries. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea imposes ban on viral TikTok song which idolises North's Kim Jong Un

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty now possess more personal wealth than King Charles, according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List. Watch in for more details!

UK PM Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murty is richer than King Charles

The International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants against both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza war.

ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu; 'ICC's move absurd, compared to Hamas' sham, ' says Israel PM

<div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full">
<div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5 juice:w-full juice:items-end overflow-x-auto gap-2" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="efcb7740-aa8b-4408-a428-ea944e4fe8d6" dir="auto">
<div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 juice:empty:hidden juice:first:pt-[3px]">
<div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert dark">
<p>Howler monkeys are dying in Mexico, and officials announced on Monday (May 20) that they are probing whether the extreme heat is responsible for the deaths of these endangered species. The Environment Ministry indicated that possible causes being examined include "heat stroke, dehydration, malnutrition, or pesticide fumigation of crops."</p>

<p>They also mentioned that investigations would be conducted to rule out the presence of a virus or disease.</p>

<div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full">
<div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5 juice:w-full juice:items-end overflow-x-auto gap-2" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="11e23537-f232-4093-a6b5-f4ee80187ff6" dir="auto">
<div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 juice:empty:hidden juice:first:pt-[3px]">
<div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert dark">
<p>Temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) have been documented in the southern states of Chiapas and Tabasco, where the deaths of the howler monkeys have occurred.</p>

<p>Although the government did not specify the number of primates that have died, the Tabasco-based wildlife preservation group COBIUS reported "mass deaths."</p>

<p>"It's very likely due to climatic reasons but we cannot rule out other important causes," it said in a statement.</p>

<p>"If you see monkeys that are weak and apparently suffering from heat or dehydration, please try to hoist a bucket of water by rope for them to drink," it added.</p>

<div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full">
<div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5 juice:w-full juice:items-end overflow-x-auto gap-2" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="11e23537-f232-4093-a6b5-f4ee80187ff6" dir="auto">
<div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 juice:empty:hidden juice:first:pt-[3px]">
<div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert dark">
<p>Temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) have been documented in the southern states of Chiapas and Tabasco, where the deaths of the howler monkeys have occurred.</p>

<p>Although the government did not specify the number of primates that have died, the Tabasco-based wildlife preservation group COBIUS reported "mass deaths."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-capital-swelters-at-474-degrees-celsius-imd-issues-red-alert-for-next-five-days-723741">Also read | India's capital swelters at 47.4 degrees Celsius, IMD issues 'red alert' for next five days</a></p>

<h2><strong>Over 40% of land vertebrates at risk from extreme heat </strong></h2>

<div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full">
<div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5 juice:w-full juice:items-end overflow-x-auto gap-2" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="90d67be1-35fc-4805-99e3-6322abbe29fc" dir="auto">
<div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 juice:empty:hidden juice:first:pt-[3px]">
<div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert dark">
<p>New research has warned that by the end of the century, over 40 per cent of land vertebrates will be threatened by extreme heat if high emissions continue, with rare, extreme temperatures becoming common.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | US: Thousands sweltering in heat without power in Texas</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-thousands-sweltering-in-heat-without-power-in-texas-723452/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The study indicates that reptiles, birds, amphibians, and mammals are increasingly facing extreme heat events in terms of frequency, duration, and intensity due to human-induced global warming.</p>

<p>According to the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-05606-z">paper published in Nature</a>, under a high emissions scenario leading to 4.4°C warming, 41 per cent of land vertebrates will encounter extreme thermal events by 2099.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>


Howler monkeys are dying in Mexico, and officials announced on Monday (May 20) that they are probing whether the extreme heat is responsible for the deaths of these endangered species.

Howler monkeys are dying in Mexico, and officials announced on Monday (May 20) that they are probing whether the extreme heat is responsible for the deaths of these endangered species. The Environment Ministry indicated that possible causes being examined include "heat stroke, dehydration, malnutrition, or pesticide fumigation of crops." They also mentioned that investigations would be conducted to rule out the presence of a virus or disease. Temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) have been documented in the southern states of Chiapas and Tabasco, where the deaths of the howler monkeys have occurred. Although the government did not specify the number of primates that have died, the Tabasco-based wildlife preservation group COBIUS reported "mass deaths." "It's very likely due to climatic reasons but we cannot rule out other important causes," it said in a statement. "If you see monkeys that are weak and apparently suffering from heat or dehydration, please try to hoist a bucket of water by rope for them to drink," it added. Temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) have been documented in the southern states of Chiapas and Tabasco, where the deaths of the howler monkeys have occurred. Although the government did not specify the number of primates that have died, the Tabasco-based wildlife preservation group COBIUS reported "mass deaths." Also read | India's capital swelters at 47.4 degrees Celsius, IMD issues 'red alert' for next five days Over 40% of land vertebrates at risk from extreme heat New research has warned that by the end of the century, over 40 per cent of land vertebrates will be threatened by extreme heat if high emissions continue, with rare, extreme temperatures becoming common. Also watch | US: Thousands sweltering in heat without power in Texas The study indicates that reptiles, birds, amphibians, and mammals are increasingly facing extreme heat events in terms of frequency, duration, and intensity due to human-induced global warming. According to the paper published in Nature, under a high emissions scenario leading to 4.4°C warming, 41 per cent of land vertebrates will encounter extreme thermal events by 2099. (With inputs from agencies)

Extreme heat causes howler monkeys to 'drop dead' in Mexico

A major breakthrough has been made in the field of science and reproductive medicine. Japanese research team has found a way of mass generating cells that are capable to turning into a sperm or ovum.

Can infertile humans have children with their own DNA?

world

World, News on World, stories on World, articles on World, World stories at Wion, World news, World latest news

world news