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Hopes for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip are dimming but a fresh round of negotiations will take place in Qatar on Monday (May 6). Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director Bill Burns headed to Qatar's capital Doha for "emergency" discussions on mediation in the war.

Hopes for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip are dimming but a fresh round of negotiations will take place in Qatar on Monday (May 6). Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director Bill Burns headed to Qatar's capital Doha for "emergency" discussions on mediation in the war. Burns would continue to stay in Doha as the truce talks drag on and will head to Israel by Tuesday for talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. A Hamas official, meanwhile, said that the group's delegation for truce talks was headed to Doha for consultations. On Sunday, the ceasefire talks in Egypt's Cairo failed to produce a breakthrough. Hamas reiterated that it would not accept a truce that did not completely end the war, accusing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of "personally hindering" a deal. Also read: Israel shuts key border crossing for aid trucks as Hamas fires rockets Prime Minister Netanyahu, meanwhile, hardened his rejection of Hamas' demands for an end to the Gaza war in exchange for the freeing of hostages, saying on Sunday that would keep the Palestinian militant group in power and pose a threat to Israel. These developments came as 16 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah city. The airstrikes came hours after Hamas claimed responsibility for a rocket attack near Rafah which Israeli said killed three IDF soldiers and injured 11 more. Also read | Dozens of Jewish sites receive disturbing bomb threat emails in NYC, says report The conflict between Israel and Hamas started in October last year after Hamas launched an assault in southern Israel in which 1,200 people were killed and 252 taken hostage. Israel responded by striking back hard at the Gaza Strip, killing more than 34,000 people. With the outcome of Monday's truce talks unknown, here's a look at the latest updates: US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke on the phone on Monday evening, according to Israeli media. The conversation reportedly lasted half an hour. Gaza officials said Israeli jets have targeted at least two areas in Rafah that the IDF had ordered to be evacuated. "The areas targeted by the Israeli occupation are near the perimeter of Gaza International Airport, the Al-Shuka area, the Abu Halawa area, the Salaheddin street area and the Salam neighbourhood," Gaza civil defence agency spokesman Ahmed Ridwan was quoted as saying by AFP. Another aid official confirmed the strikes. Egypt has reportedly raised its military’s level of preparedness in northern Sinai, which borders the Gaza Strip. EU’s top diplomat Josep Borrell on Monday urged Israel to “renounce” the idea of invading Rafah. In a post on social media, he called on both sides to implement UN security council resolution 2728, which demanded “an immediate ceasefire … by all parties leading to a lasting sustainable ceasefire” and also called for “the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages” and “the lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale”. Hezbollah said it fired "dozens of Katyusha rockets" at an Israeli base in the occupied Golan Heights on Monday in retaliation for a strike in Lebanon's east. Hezbollah fighters launched "dozens of Katyusha rockets" targeting "the headquarters of the Golan Division... at Nafah base", the group said in a statement. The Israeli military on Monday began evacuating Palestinian civilians from eastern Rafah ahead of a threatened assault on the southern Gazan city. The military said that around 100,000 people were being evacuated. According to local media reports, the evacuations were now focused on a few peripheral districts of Rafah from which evacuees would be directed to tent cities in nearby Khan Younis and Al Muwassi. The military said that the east Rafah evacuation was a "limited scope operation," as it began to drop flyers, send text messages, and make phone calls to Palestinians with instructions on the zones that needed to be evacuated, and which routes to take to a designated humanitarian zone. Hamas called the evacuation plan a “dangerous escalation that will have consequences.” At least 16 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah, AFP reported on Monday citing medics and first responders. The airstrikes came hours after Hamas claimed responsibility for a rocket attack near Rafah which Israeli said killed three Israeli soldiers and injured 11 more. The Israeli military confirmed the counter-strike, saying it struck the launcher from which the Hamas projectiles were fired, as well as a nearby "military structure." The military said 10 projectiles were launched from Rafah in southern Gaza towards the area of Kerem Shalom, which it said was now closed. 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. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Families of hostages rally again in Tel Aviv (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Biden speaks to Netanyahu as Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas, 10 key points

Gaza officials said Monday Israeli jets launched strikes on two Rafah areas ahead of imminent ground offensive. Following this, US President Joe Biden and Israeli PM Netanyahu spoke over phone and discussed the Rafah offensive plans, Israeli media reported. Meanwhile, Columbia university has declared it will not hold&nbsp;the main ceremony for graduating students next week amid Gaza protest.&nbsp;The prestigious university in the United States stated that it would "forego the university-wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15" and hold a series of smaller events instead. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced new nuclear weapons drills.&nbsp;Russia's defence ministry said the exercises would be held in the "near future" and involve the air force, navy and troops stationed near Ukraine.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-updates-ceasefire-negotiations-to-begin-in-qatar-today-718328">Gaza war: Biden speaks to Netanyahu as Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas</a> 
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US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke on the phone on Monday evening, according to Israeli media. The conversation reportedly lasted half an hour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/columbia-university-cancels-main-graduation-ceremony-due-to-gaza-protests-718566">Columbia University's main graduation ceremony cancelled due to Gaza protests</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/06/429657-columbia-university.png?imwidth=400" />

Columbia University on Monday (May 6) announced that it has cancelled the main ceremony for graduating students next week amid the protests on campus by students over the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-coast-guard-detains-iranian-boat-off-kerala-six-indian-fishermen-in-custody-718550">Watch: Indian Coast Guard detains Iranian boat off Kerala, six Indian fishermen rescued</a>

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The Indian Coast Guard on Monday (May 6) ‘intercepted and detained’ an Iranian vessel off the coast of Kerala with six Indian nationals on board.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-orders-of-nuclear-drills-response-to-unprecedented-comments-from-west-718498">Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/06/429596-russian-yars-intercontinental-ballistic-missile-launchers.png?imwidth=400" />

The Kremlin reacted after Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (May 6) ordered new nuclear weapons drills in the face of Western "threats" amid the ongoing war with Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trouble-mounts-for-arvind-kejriwal-as-delhi-lg-calls-for-anti-terror-probe-against-him-718601">Trouble mounts for Arvind Kejriwal as Delhi LG calls for anti-terror probe against him</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/29/421741-untitled-design-2024-03-29t211303917.png?imwidth=400" />

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Monday (May 6) has called for an anti-terror investigation into allegations Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal received political funding from the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) group, which was founded by wanted terrorist Gurpatwant Pannun.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melbourne-police-searching-for-two-haryana-students-following-fatal-stabbing-incident-718584">Melbourne police searching for two Haryana students following fatal stabbing incident</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/06/429667-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

Australian police are searching for two Haryana brothers who fatally stabbed another individual of Indian descent in Melbourne early Sunday morning (May 5).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-in-france-calls-for-free-tibet-take-over-paris-during-chinese-leaders-state-visit-718403">Xi Jinping in France: Chants of 'Free Tibet' echo in Paris streets amid Chinese leader's state visit</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/06/429544-xi-in-paris.png?imwidth=400" />

Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrived in France on Sunday (May 5) on a state visit where President Emmanuel Macron is expected to push his Chinese counterpart for a stronger stance against Russia amid the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/parents-of-1-american-2-australian-surfers-presumed-killed-in-mexico-will-try-to-identify-dead-bodies-718289">Bodies found in well in Mexico confirmed to be of missing US, Australian surfers; tyre robbery suspected</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/06/429467-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=400" />

Mexican authorities confirmed on Sunday (May 5) that the families of one American and two Australian surfers who went missing in Baja California on April 26 have identified their bodies, the news agency Reuters reported

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/heres-why-indias-t20-world-cup-jersey-unveiled-by-adidas-has-only-one-star-718585">Here's why India's T20 World Cup jersey unveiled by Adidas has only one star</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/06/429666-untitled-design-16.png?imwidth=400" />

Indian cricket team's official kit sponsor, Adidas, on Monday (May 6) unveiled the senior men's jersey for the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the West Indies and USA in June.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-met-gala-2024-what-does-the-theme-sleeping-beauties-reawakening-fashion-mean-718602">Met Gala 2024: What does the theme 'Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion' mean?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/02/348974-untitled-design-2023-05-02t113316073.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Fashion's biggest night is just hours away. The 2024 Met Gala will have some of the world's most prominent celebrities walking the red carpet dressed in designer best.

Gaza officials said Monday Israeli jets launched strikes on two Rafah areas ahead of imminent ground offensive. Following this, US President Joe Biden and Israeli PM Netanyahu spoke over phone and discussed the Rafah offensive plans, Israeli media reported.

Gaza officials said Monday Israeli jets launched strikes on two Rafah areas ahead of imminent ground offensive. Following this, US President Joe Biden and Israeli PM Netanyahu spoke over phone and discussed the Rafah offensive plans, Israeli media reported. Meanwhile, Columbia university has declared it will not hold the main ceremony for graduating students next week amid Gaza protest. The prestigious university in the United States stated that it would "forego the university-wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15" and hold a series of smaller events instead. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced new nuclear weapons drills. Russia's defence ministry said the exercises would be held in the "near future" and involve the air force, navy and troops stationed near Ukraine. Click on the headlines to read more. Gaza war: Biden speaks to Netanyahu as Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke on the phone on Monday evening, according to Israeli media. The conversation reportedly lasted half an hour. Columbia University's main graduation ceremony cancelled due to Gaza protests Columbia University on Monday (May 6) announced that it has cancelled the main ceremony for graduating students next week amid the protests on campus by students over the ongoing war in Gaza. Watch: Indian Coast Guard detains Iranian boat off Kerala, six Indian fishermen rescued The Indian Coast Guard on Monday (May 6) ‘intercepted and detained’ an Iranian vessel off the coast of Kerala with six Indian nationals on board. Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin The Kremlin reacted after Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (May 6) ordered new nuclear weapons drills in the face of Western "threats" amid the ongoing war with Ukraine. Trouble mounts for Arvind Kejriwal as Delhi LG calls for anti-terror probe against him Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Monday (May 6) has called for an anti-terror investigation into allegations Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal received political funding from the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) group, which was founded by wanted terrorist Gurpatwant Pannun. Melbourne police searching for two Haryana students following fatal stabbing incident Australian police are searching for two Haryana brothers who fatally stabbed another individual of Indian descent in Melbourne early Sunday morning (May 5). Xi Jinping in France: Chants of 'Free Tibet' echo in Paris streets amid Chinese leader's state visit Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrived in France on Sunday (May 5) on a state visit where President Emmanuel Macron is expected to push his Chinese counterpart for a stronger stance against Russia amid the war in Ukraine. Bodies found in well in Mexico confirmed to be of missing US, Australian surfers; tyre robbery suspected Mexican authorities confirmed on Sunday (May 5) that the families of one American and two Australian surfers who went missing in Baja California on April 26 have identified their bodies, the news agency Reuters reported Here's why India's T20 World Cup jersey unveiled by Adidas has only one star Indian cricket team's official kit sponsor, Adidas, on Monday (May 6) unveiled the senior men's jersey for the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the West Indies and USA in June. Met Gala 2024: What does the theme 'Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion' mean? Fashion's biggest night is just hours away. The 2024 Met Gala will have some of the world's most prominent celebrities walking the red carpet dressed in designer best.

Top 10 world news: Biden speaks to Netanyahu ahead of Rafah offensive; Putin orders nuclear drills, & more

Sixteen people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah city, the news agency AFP reported early Monday (May 6), citing medics and first responders. In other news, multiple emails containing disturbing bomb threats were sent to more than two dozen Jewish institutions and synagogues in New York City on Saturday (May 4), as per the New York City Police Department. &nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-16-killed-in-israeli-air-strike-in-gazas-rafah-718286">Gaza war: 16 killed in Israeli airstrikes in Rafah after Hamas killed 3 IDF soldiers 
 
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Sixteen people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah city, early Monday (May 6). "The toll of martyrs in Rafah reached 16," emergency first responders told AFP, adding that seven people from one family and nine from another family were killed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-of-jewish-sites-receive-disturbing-bomb-threat-emails-in-nyc-report-718304">Dozens of Jewish sites receive disturbing bomb threat emails in NYC: Report 
 
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Multiple emails containing disturbing bomb threats were sent to more than two dozen Jewish institutions and synagogues in New York City. However, the&nbsp;NYPD&nbsp;found the threats to be 'fake'.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/parents-of-1-american-2-australian-surfers-presumed-killed-in-mexico-will-try-to-identify-dead-bodies-718289">Bodies found in well in Mexico confirmed to be of missing American, Australian surfers 
 
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Mexican authorities confirmed on Sunday (May 5) that the families of one American and two Australian surfers who went missing in Baja California on April 26 have identified their bodies, the news agency Reuters reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-after-floods-in-southern-brazil-rises-to-78-more-than-115000-displaced-718303">Death toll after floods in southern Brazil rises to 78, more than 115,000 displaced 
 
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The death toll after heavy rains which led to floods in southern Brazil rose to at least 78, said local authorities on Sunday (May 5), as they scrambled to rescue people from what is being called the region’s largest-ever climate catastrophe.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/panama-elects-new-president-on-pro-investor-migrant-trail-shutdown-plank-718324">Panama elects new president on pro-investor, migrant trail shutdown plank</a>

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Latin America's transit powerhouse Panama elected Jose Raul Mulino as its new president. Deemed an investor favourite candidate, Mulino rose to the favour of voters by pledging to revive the economy, crack down on drug cartels and shut down&nbsp;illegal migration routes to the United States.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel war: CIA Chief leaves for emergency meeting with Qatari PM, say reports

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-cia-chief-leaves-for-emergency-meeting-with-qatari-pm-say-reports-718307/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Sixteen people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah city, the news agency AFP reported early Monday (May 6), citing medics and first responders.

Sixteen people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah city, the news agency AFP reported early Monday (May 6), citing medics and first responders. In other news, multiple emails containing disturbing bomb threats were sent to more than two dozen Jewish institutions and synagogues in New York City on Saturday (May 4), as per the New York City Police Department. Click on the headlines to read more: Gaza war: 16 killed in Israeli airstrikes in Rafah after Hamas killed 3 IDF soldiers Sixteen people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah city, early Monday (May 6). "The toll of martyrs in Rafah reached 16," emergency first responders told AFP, adding that seven people from one family and nine from another family were killed. Dozens of Jewish sites receive disturbing bomb threat emails in NYC: Report Multiple emails containing disturbing bomb threats were sent to more than two dozen Jewish institutions and synagogues in New York City. However, the NYPD found the threats to be 'fake'. Bodies found in well in Mexico confirmed to be of missing American, Australian surfers Mexican authorities confirmed on Sunday (May 5) that the families of one American and two Australian surfers who went missing in Baja California on April 26 have identified their bodies, the news agency Reuters reported. Death toll after floods in southern Brazil rises to 78, more than 115,000 displaced The death toll after heavy rains which led to floods in southern Brazil rose to at least 78, said local authorities on Sunday (May 5), as they scrambled to rescue people from what is being called the region’s largest-ever climate catastrophe. Panama elects new president on pro-investor, migrant trail shutdown plank Latin America's transit powerhouse Panama elected Jose Raul Mulino as its new president. Deemed an investor favourite candidate, Mulino rose to the favour of voters by pledging to revive the economy, crack down on drug cartels and shut down illegal migration routes to the United States. WATCH | Israel war: CIA Chief leaves for emergency meeting with Qatari PM, say reports

Morning news brief: 16 killed in Israeli airstrikes in Rafah; Jewish sites in NYC receive bomb threats; & more

WION speaks with Amit Levy the brother of Naama Levy who's been held hostage in Gaza now for 213 days.

Israel-Hamas war: Naama Levy's family speaks to WION in an exclusive

Mexican authorities confirmed on Sunday (May 5) that the families of one American and two Australian surfers who went missing in Baja California on April 26 have identified their bodies, the news agency Reuters reported.

Mexican authorities confirmed on Sunday (May 5) that the families of one American and two Australian surfers who went missing in Baja California on April 26 have identified their bodies, the news agency Reuters reported. The families of Australian brothers Callum and Jake Robinson and their American friend Carter Rhoad were in Mexico to identify them. The dead bodies of the surfers were found in a well with gunshot wounds to the head in what authorities are treating as a murder investigation. Authorities suspect it was a tyre robbery bid that had gone awry. Earlier, Baja California's state Attorney General Maria Elena Andrade had said that if the families could identify the bodies, it would void the need for DNA tests. How did the surfers go missing? Callum, Jake, and Carter went missing while on a vacation surfing near the popular tourist town of Ensenada, about 90 minutes south of the US-Mexico border on the Pacific coast. The three surfers were last seen on April 27 and reported missing a couple of days later, when authorities launched a multi-day search with the help of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). They were believed to have been killed during a botched theft of their pick-up truck. Prosecutors earlier said that three suspects, two men, and one woman, have been detained on suspicion of involvement in the case. One of those arrested has a history of violence, drug dealing, and robbery, according to officials. A preliminary hypothesis said that the arrested individuals attempted to carjack the foreigners and when the surfers resisted they were shot and their bodies dumped in a well. 'Bodies found in advanced state of decomposition' On Saturday, Andrade said that the bodies were found in an advanced state of decomposition at the bottom of the well. Reuters reported that all three bodies had a shot in the head. Baja California is one of Mexico's most violent states, although the Ensenada area is considered safer. (With inputs from agencies)

Bodies found in well in Mexico confirmed to be of missing US, Australian surfers; tyre robbery suspected

&nbsp;

The judge presiding over Donald Trump's criminal trial&nbsp;fined him $1,000 on Monday (May 6), for breaching the gag order for the tenth time.

Justice Juan Merchan cautioned that he would contemplate incarcerating Trump for any subsequent infractions. Merchan noted that the nine fines of $1,000 each imposed previously did not appear to dissuade Trump from violating the gag order, which prohibits him from publicly discussing jurors, witnesses, and the families of the judge and prosecutors if such remarks try to interfere with the case.

Merchan stated that he saw jail time as "truly the last resort" for several reasons, including the trial's disruption, the political implications of imprisoning a leading presidential candidate before an election, and the exceptional security challenges of detaining a former president with ongoing Secret Service protection.

Nonetheless, he said that Trump's persistent and deliberate violations of the gag order amounted to a "direct attack on the rule of law."

“I do not want to impose a jail sanction and have done everything I can to avoid doing so. But I will if necessary,” Merchan said from the bench in the absence of the jury.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kristi-noem-trump-vp-contender-suggests-bidens-dog-should-be-killed-too-718481">Also read |&nbsp;Kristi Noem, Trump VP contender, suggests Biden’s dog Commander should be killed too</a>

Under New York law, breaching a court-issued gag order can result in fines reaching $1,000 or imprisonment for a maximum of 30 days.&nbsp;

Merchan imposed a $1,000 fine on Monday for an April 22 broadcast interview in which the Republican former president said: "That jury was picked so fast - 95% Democrats. The area's mostly all Democrat."

<h2>What's the case against Trump?</h2>

New York prosecutors have accused Trump of lying about his business records to hide a $130,000 payment to a porn star named Stormy Daniels, who says she had sex with him in 2006. Trump says he didn't do it and denies having sex with Daniels.

Trump often complains that he can't talk to voters much because of a rule that stops him from talking about the case.

Also watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump to announce his second-in-command in a few weeks: Reports

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-to-announce-his-second-in-command-in-a-few-weeks-reports-718521/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Before a meeting on Monday, Trump didn't talk about Cohen, his old lawyer who will likely speak in the trial. But he kept saying that New York prosecutors are teaming up with President Joe Biden to hurt his chances in politics. He also said the judge has a problem because his daughter works for Democrats. Trump's lawyers tried to get the judge off the case, but they didn't succeed.

(With inputs from agencies)

The judge presiding over Donald Trump's criminal trial fined him $1,000 on Monday (May 6), for breaching the gag order for the tenth time. Justice Juan Merchan cautioned that he would contemplate incarcerating Trump for any subsequent infractions.

The judge presiding over Donald Trump's criminal trial fined him $1,000 on Monday (May 6), for breaching the gag order for the tenth time. Justice Juan Merchan cautioned that he would contemplate incarcerating Trump for any subsequent infractions. Merchan noted that the nine fines of $1,000 each imposed previously did not appear to dissuade Trump from violating the gag order, which prohibits him from publicly discussing jurors, witnesses, and the families of the judge and prosecutors if such remarks try to interfere with the case. Merchan stated that he saw jail time as "truly the last resort" for several reasons, including the trial's disruption, the political implications of imprisoning a leading presidential candidate before an election, and the exceptional security challenges of detaining a former president with ongoing Secret Service protection. Nonetheless, he said that Trump's persistent and deliberate violations of the gag order amounted to a "direct attack on the rule of law." “I do not want to impose a jail sanction and have done everything I can to avoid doing so. But I will if necessary,” Merchan said from the bench in the absence of the jury. Also read | Kristi Noem, Trump VP contender, suggests Biden’s dog Commander should be killed too Under New York law, breaching a court-issued gag order can result in fines reaching $1,000 or imprisonment for a maximum of 30 days. Merchan imposed a $1,000 fine on Monday for an April 22 broadcast interview in which the Republican former president said: "That jury was picked so fast - 95% Democrats. The area's mostly all Democrat." What's the case against Trump? New York prosecutors have accused Trump of lying about his business records to hide a $130,000 payment to a porn star named Stormy Daniels, who says she had sex with him in 2006. Trump says he didn't do it and denies having sex with Daniels. Trump often complains that he can't talk to voters much because of a rule that stops him from talking about the case. Also watch | Donald Trump to announce his second-in-command in a few weeks: Reports Before a meeting on Monday, Trump didn't talk about Cohen, his old lawyer who will likely speak in the trial. But he kept saying that New York prosecutors are teaming up with President Joe Biden to hurt his chances in politics. He also said the judge has a problem because his daughter works for Democrats. Trump's lawyers tried to get the judge off the case, but they didn't succeed. (With inputs from agencies)

Judge fines Trump $1,000 for 10th gag order breach, warns of jail time

A North Korean propaganda song showing Kim Jong Un as a hero is being dubbed a pop banger by Gen Z TikTok users. The song, titled "Friendly Father", praised the dictator with the lyrics describing Kim as "warm-hearted like your mother" and "benevolent like your father".&nbsp;

In one scene, Kim can be seen hugging a child before kissing her on the cheek. In another, Kim is mobbed by a group of women. Other moments in the video show smiling military troops and bus riders of all ages singing along to the lyrics. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kim-jong-un-picks-25-virgins-annually-for-his-pleasure-squad-claims-report-717336">Kim Jong-Un picks 25 virgins annually for his 'pleasure squad,' claims report</a>

The song has garnered millions of views, including from many Gen-Z users who don't really know the meaning of the song’s lyrics that shower admiration on the leader who has vowed to "thoroughly annihilate" the United States and rival South Korea if provoked.

<h2>Kim Jong Un's propaganda song gets Taylor Swift comparison</h2>

Users on the internet described the song as "ABBA-coded", BBC reported. This has helped the track reach levels of virality typically expected from a hit by somebody like Taylor Swift and not a&nbsp;propaganda machinery.

"Taylor Swift was not expecting to get blown out of the water right after dropping her new album," one online user said, while another joked the song "needs a Grammy".&nbsp;

Alexandra Leonzini, a Cambridge University scholar focusing on North Korean music told BBC such tracks also rarely feature any actual emotions.&nbsp;

"The idea is they want to motivate, to strive towards a common goal for the benefit of the nation… they don’t tend to produce songs like ballads," she told the outlet.

The song also points to a direction the isolated country is shifting, such as with lyrics referring to Kim as "father" and "the Great."&nbsp;

The terms previously had been used solely for North Korea’s first leader, Kim Jong Un's grandfather Kim Il Sung.

(With inputs from agencies)

A North Korean propaganda song showing Kim Jong Un as a hero is being dubbed a pop banger by Gen Z TikTok users. The song, titled "Friendly Father", praised the dictator with the lyrics describing Kim as "warm-hearted like your mother" and "benevolent like your father".

A North Korean propaganda song showing Kim Jong Un as a hero is being dubbed a pop banger by Gen Z TikTok users. The song, titled "Friendly Father", praised the dictator with the lyrics describing Kim as "warm-hearted like your mother" and "benevolent like your father". In one scene, Kim can be seen hugging a child before kissing her on the cheek. In another, Kim is mobbed by a group of women. Other moments in the video show smiling military troops and bus riders of all ages singing along to the lyrics. Also read | Kim Jong-Un picks 25 virgins annually for his 'pleasure squad,' claims report The song has garnered millions of views, including from many Gen-Z users who don't really know the meaning of the song’s lyrics that shower admiration on the leader who has vowed to "thoroughly annihilate" the United States and rival South Korea if provoked. Kim Jong Un's propaganda song gets Taylor Swift comparison Users on the internet described the song as "ABBA-coded", BBC reported. This has helped the track reach levels of virality typically expected from a hit by somebody like Taylor Swift and not a propaganda machinery. "Taylor Swift was not expecting to get blown out of the water right after dropping her new album," one online user said, while another joked the song "needs a Grammy". Alexandra Leonzini, a Cambridge University scholar focusing on North Korean music told BBC such tracks also rarely feature any actual emotions. "The idea is they want to motivate, to strive towards a common goal for the benefit of the nation… they don’t tend to produce songs like ballads," she told the outlet. The song also points to a direction the isolated country is shifting, such as with lyrics referring to Kim as "father" and "the Great." The terms previously had been used solely for North Korea’s first leader, Kim Jong Un's grandfather Kim Il Sung. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un propaganda song floors netizens who didn't hesitate to invoke Taylor Swift

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Israeli strikes on Rafah kill at least 22 - Xi Jinping arrives in France - Russia holds rehearsal for victory day parade - No pressure can stop US, says Israel PM Netanyahu - Brazil flooding kills at least 28

Russia holds rehearsal for victory parade | Brazil flooding kills at least 78

A man from South Africa, who survived over 10 years in coma, has recounted his miraculous&nbsp;journey of recovery. Martin Pistorius, from Johannesburg, shared the terrifying&nbsp;experience of being trapped in his own body, unable to move or communicate, yet fully conscious of everything happening around him.

His struggles began at the age of 12 when he returned home from school with a sore throat, as reported by The Sun. Initially thought to be the flu, his condition deteriorated rapidly, resulting in the loss of mobility, independent eating, and communication abilities. Diagnosed with cryptococcal meningitis and brain tuberculosis, he eventually slipped into coma.

His mother said Martin's last words as a child were spoken in the hospital: "When home?"

Doctors said they couldn't do anything, but his parents decided to keep him alive in a care centre. Four years later, he woke up, but he still couldn't talk or move.

"I remember around my 16th birthday people talking about the stubble on my chin and wondering whether to shave me. It scared and confused me to listen to what was being said because, although I had no memories or sense of a past, I was sure I was a child and the voices were speaking about a soon-to-be man,'' he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/speech-impaired-child-thrown-into-crocodile-infested-river-by-mother-in-karnataka-718242">Also read |&nbsp;Mother throws 6-year-old speech-impaired son into crocodile-infested river in Karnataka</a>

He shared that he stayed informed about significant world events by listening to the television or people talking nearby.

'I was aware of everything, just like any normal person. Everyone was so used to me not being there that they didn't notice when I began to be present again. The stark reality hit me that I was going to spend the rest of my life like that – alone. For me, that feeling of complete and utter powerlessness is probably the worst feeling I have ever experienced, and I hope I never have to experience it again. It is like you don't exist, every single thing in your life is decided by someone else,'' he told<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/nightly-news/how-ghost-boy-survived-over-decade-trapped-his-body-n296451">&nbsp;</a>NBC News.&nbsp;

Years went by, but he remained confined in a motionless body, with only his thoughts and imagination to keep him company.

In 2001, when he was 25 years old, a caregiver at the day centre urged his parents to take him to the Centre For Augmentative And Alternative Communication at the University Of Pretoria. There, he successfully passed a test by using eye movements to point at objects.

His parents then purchased a computer for him, equipped with communication software akin to what Stephen Hawking used. After extensive practice over many years, he became proficient in communicating through synthetic speech. Eventually, he mastered website development and graduated from university. In 2008, he met his future wife, Joan, through his sister Kim, and they married the following year. They welcomed their son, Sebastian Albert Pistorius, in 2018, and he often shares family photos on Instagram.

Currently, he is employed as a computer scientist and web developer.

Also watch |&nbsp;South Africa: Ruling ANC facing possible voter decline in May 29 election

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He said: ''Once, I was perceived to be an inanimate object, a mindless phantom of a boy in a wheelchair. Today, I am so much more. A husband, a son, a friend, a brother, a business owner, a first-class honours graduate, a keen amateur photographer. I can communicate that has given me all this.''

His life story is told in a book called "Ghost Boy."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

A man from South Africa, who survived over 10 years in coma, has recounted his miraculous journey of recovery. Martin Pistorius, from Johannesburg, shared the terrifying experience of being trapped in his own body, unable to move or communicate, yet fully conscious of everything happening around him.

A man from South Africa, who survived over 10 years in coma, has recounted his miraculous journey of recovery. Martin Pistorius, from Johannesburg, shared the terrifying experience of being trapped in his own body, unable to move or communicate, yet fully conscious of everything happening around him. His struggles began at the age of 12 when he returned home from school with a sore throat, as reported by The Sun. Initially thought to be the flu, his condition deteriorated rapidly, resulting in the loss of mobility, independent eating, and communication abilities. Diagnosed with cryptococcal meningitis and brain tuberculosis, he eventually slipped into coma. His mother said Martin's last words as a child were spoken in the hospital: "When home?" Doctors said they couldn't do anything, but his parents decided to keep him alive in a care centre. Four years later, he woke up, but he still couldn't talk or move. "I remember around my 16th birthday people talking about the stubble on my chin and wondering whether to shave me. It scared and confused me to listen to what was being said because, although I had no memories or sense of a past, I was sure I was a child and the voices were speaking about a soon-to-be man,'' he said. Also read | Mother throws 6-year-old speech-impaired son into crocodile-infested river in Karnataka He shared that he stayed informed about significant world events by listening to the television or people talking nearby. 'I was aware of everything, just like any normal person. Everyone was so used to me not being there that they didn't notice when I began to be present again. The stark reality hit me that I was going to spend the rest of my life like that – alone. For me, that feeling of complete and utter powerlessness is probably the worst feeling I have ever experienced, and I hope I never have to experience it again. It is like you don't exist, every single thing in your life is decided by someone else,'' he told NBC News. Years went by, but he remained confined in a motionless body, with only his thoughts and imagination to keep him company. In 2001, when he was 25 years old, a caregiver at the day centre urged his parents to take him to the Centre For Augmentative And Alternative Communication at the University Of Pretoria. There, he successfully passed a test by using eye movements to point at objects. His parents then purchased a computer for him, equipped with communication software akin to what Stephen Hawking used. After extensive practice over many years, he became proficient in communicating through synthetic speech. Eventually, he mastered website development and graduated from university. In 2008, he met his future wife, Joan, through his sister Kim, and they married the following year. They welcomed their son, Sebastian Albert Pistorius, in 2018, and he often shares family photos on Instagram. Currently, he is employed as a computer scientist and web developer. Also watch | South Africa: Ruling ANC facing possible voter decline in May 29 election He said: ''Once, I was perceived to be an inanimate object, a mindless phantom of a boy in a wheelchair. Today, I am so much more. A husband, a son, a friend, a brother, a business owner, a first-class honours graduate, a keen amateur photographer. I can communicate that has given me all this.'' His life story is told in a book called "Ghost Boy." (With inputs from agencies)

‘Felt like a ghost’: Man slipped into coma for 13 years after experiencing simple sore throat

The US has shared astonishing evidence along with the UK - it indicated a strong possibility that the Covid virus originated from a Chinese lab in January 2021.

US shared Covid lab leak intel with UK, Mike Pompeo presented info: Reports

The death toll after heavy rains which led to floods in southern Brazil rose to at least 78, said local authorities on Sunday (May 5), as they scrambled to rescue people from what is being called the region’s largest-ever climate catastrophe.

<h2>Death toll rises to 78</h2>

The floods triggered by torrential rain in Brazil’s southern state of Rio Grande do Sul have killed at least 78 people&nbsp;so far.&nbsp;According to local authorities, this number could rise as around 105 people have been reported missing as of Sunday, up from 70 the prior day.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Brazil floods: Heavy rains lash Southern state of Rio Grande Do Su

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The state civil defence authority also said it is investigating whether another four deaths were related to the storms. More than 115,000 people have reportedly been displaced due to the widespread flooding.&nbsp;

The rains also triggered landslides, leading to the partial collapse of a dam at a small hydroelectric power plant. &nbsp;As of Sunday evening, more than 400,000 people were left without power and nearly a third of the state’s population was without water, according to the local authorities.&nbsp;

In Porto Alegre, the capital of the state, residents reportedly stood on rooftops hoping to be rescued as others navigated the flooded streets in canoes or small boats.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-floods-nearly-70000-forced-from-homes-death-toll-at-57-718080">Brazil floods: Nearly 70,000 forced from homes, death toll at 57</a>

The Guaiba Lake&nbsp;in the state capital&nbsp;breached its banks, hitting the highest water level on record, according to local authorities.&nbsp;

Over 3,000 soldiers, firefighters and other rescuers were trying to reach residents who were trapped in their homes without water or electricity. The army personnel also set up field hospitals for hundreds of patients who had to be evacuated from regular hospitals.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, civilians formed volunteer groups to gather basic supplies like life jackets and water. Some volunteers also used boats and jet skis&nbsp;and even swam to help in ongoing rescue efforts.&nbsp;

<h2>‘It is a war scenario’</h2>

“It is a war scenario, and will need post-war measures,” said state governor Eduardo Leite, flanked by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Lula arrived in Rio Grande do Sul on Sunday morning with most members of his cabinet to discuss rescue and reconstruction efforts with local authorities.

“Bureaucracy will not stand in our way, stopping us from recovering the state’s greatness,” said the Brazilian president.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-official-says-cairo-truce-meeting-ends-delegation-to-leave-for-doha-718252">Hamas official says Cairo truce meeting ends, delegation to leave for Doha</a>

In addition to Porto Alegre, around 341 towns and villages in the state have been hit by the flooding. The international airport in the state capital suspended all flights on Friday, with its runways underwater.

<h2>Climate change and El Nino effect</h2>

Climatologist Francisco Eliseu Aquino called the situation in Rio Grande do Sul a "disastrous cocktail” of climate change and the El Nino effect.&nbsp;

“Rio Grande do Sul has always been a meeting point between tropical and polar air masses,” Aquino told AFP, adding that these “interactions intensified with climate change” and created “a disastrous cocktail that makes the atmosphere more unstable and encourages storms.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The death toll after heavy rains which led to floods in southern Brazil rose to at least 78, said local authorities on Sunday (May 5), as they scrambled to rescue people from what is being called the region’s largest-ever climate catastrophe.

The death toll after heavy rains which led to floods in southern Brazil rose to at least 78, said local authorities on Sunday (May 5), as they scrambled to rescue people from what is being called the region’s largest-ever climate catastrophe. Death toll rises to 78 The floods triggered by torrential rain in Brazil’s southern state of Rio Grande do Sul have killed at least 78 people so far. According to local authorities, this number could rise as around 105 people have been reported missing as of Sunday, up from 70 the prior day. WATCH | Brazil floods: Heavy rains lash Southern state of Rio Grande Do Su The state civil defence authority also said it is investigating whether another four deaths were related to the storms. More than 115,000 people have reportedly been displaced due to the widespread flooding. The rains also triggered landslides, leading to the partial collapse of a dam at a small hydroelectric power plant. As of Sunday evening, more than 400,000 people were left without power and nearly a third of the state’s population was without water, according to the local authorities. In Porto Alegre, the capital of the state, residents reportedly stood on rooftops hoping to be rescued as others navigated the flooded streets in canoes or small boats. Also Read | Brazil floods: Nearly 70,000 forced from homes, death toll at 57 The Guaiba Lake in the state capital breached its banks, hitting the highest water level on record, according to local authorities. Over 3,000 soldiers, firefighters and other rescuers were trying to reach residents who were trapped in their homes without water or electricity. The army personnel also set up field hospitals for hundreds of patients who had to be evacuated from regular hospitals. Meanwhile, civilians formed volunteer groups to gather basic supplies like life jackets and water. Some volunteers also used boats and jet skis and even swam to help in ongoing rescue efforts. ‘It is a war scenario’ “It is a war scenario, and will need post-war measures,” said state governor Eduardo Leite, flanked by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Lula arrived in Rio Grande do Sul on Sunday morning with most members of his cabinet to discuss rescue and reconstruction efforts with local authorities. “Bureaucracy will not stand in our way, stopping us from recovering the state’s greatness,” said the Brazilian president. Also Read | Hamas official says Cairo truce meeting ends, delegation to leave for Doha In addition to Porto Alegre, around 341 towns and villages in the state have been hit by the flooding. The international airport in the state capital suspended all flights on Friday, with its runways underwater. Climate change and El Nino effect Climatologist Francisco Eliseu Aquino called the situation in Rio Grande do Sul a "disastrous cocktail” of climate change and the El Nino effect. “Rio Grande do Sul has always been a meeting point between tropical and polar air masses,” Aquino told AFP, adding that these “interactions intensified with climate change” and created “a disastrous cocktail that makes the atmosphere more unstable and encourages storms.” (With inputs from agencies)

Death toll in Brazil floods rises to 78, more than 115,000 displaced

China's President Xi Jinping kicked off a two-day state visit at the French presidential palace on Monday (May 6), with discussions expected to centre&nbsp;on trade disputes and diplomatic initiatives to persuade&nbsp;Beijing to exert its influence to encourage Russia to end the conflict in Ukraine.

In Paris, Xi initially participated in a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, focussing on broader EU interests. Macron stated at the outset of the meeting that discussions would prioritise trade matters, aiming to guarantee "fair competition," before addressing the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

“We are at a turning point in our history” as the Europe-China relationship is faced with challenges, Macron said.

The talks are aimed at sharing “both our shared positions and our concerns, to try to overcome them, because the future of our continent will very clearly also depend on our ability to develop balanced relations with China,” he said.

Macron, who strongly supports Europe's economic independence, wants to talk about French worries about China's investigation into whether to impose extra charges on cognac and other European brandy. He also wants to discuss tensions about French cosmetics and other industries. In a recent speech, he criticised both China and the United States for their trade practices, saying they both support protecting their own businesses and giving them subsidies.

At the start of the meeting in Paris, Xi said “the world today has entered a new period of turbulence and change.”

“As two important forces in the world, China and Europe should ... continuously make new contributions to world peace and development,” he said.

Also watch |&nbsp;China's Xi Jinping in France: Ukraine, trade and investment top agenda

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Xi is starting his trip in Paris, trying to fix relationships during a tense time worldwide. After France, he's going to Serbia and Hungary. France wants Xi to talk to Russia about ending the war in Ukraine. Russia's president plans to visit China soon.

Macron will ask Xi about Chinese companies helping Russia in the war, even though the EU said no. China says it's not taking sides in the Ukraine war, but France wants China to keep talking to Ukraine.

Last year, Macron asked Xi to talk to Russia, but nothing happened.

With France gearing up to host the Summer Olympics, Macron expressed his intention to urge Xi to leverage&nbsp;his influence to ensure that the Games become "a diplomatic moment of peace."

These discussions will be closely monitored from Washington, particularly as they precede President Joe Biden's anticipated state visit to France next month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/france-sets-record-for-worlds-longest-baguette-beats-italy-after-five-years-718411">Also read |&nbsp;France sets record for world’s longest baguette, beats Italy after five years</a>

Xi's visit coincides with the 60th anniversary of France-China diplomatic relations, following Macron's journey to China in April 2023. Macron stirred controversy during that trip by stating that France would not blindly align with the US&nbsp;in crises unrelated to its interests, seemingly alluding to China's aspirations for Taiwan's reunification.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

China's President Xi Jinping kicked off a two-day state visit at the French presidential palace on Monday (May 6), with discussions expected to centre on trade disputes and diplomatic initiatives to persuade Beijing to exert its influence to encourage Russia to end the conflict in Ukraine.

China's President Xi Jinping kicked off a two-day state visit at the French presidential palace on Monday (May 6), with discussions expected to centre on trade disputes and diplomatic initiatives to persuade Beijing to exert its influence to encourage Russia to end the conflict in Ukraine. In Paris, Xi initially participated in a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, focussing on broader EU interests. Macron stated at the outset of the meeting that discussions would prioritise trade matters, aiming to guarantee "fair competition," before addressing the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. “We are at a turning point in our history” as the Europe-China relationship is faced with challenges, Macron said. The talks are aimed at sharing “both our shared positions and our concerns, to try to overcome them, because the future of our continent will very clearly also depend on our ability to develop balanced relations with China,” he said. Macron, who strongly supports Europe's economic independence, wants to talk about French worries about China's investigation into whether to impose extra charges on cognac and other European brandy. He also wants to discuss tensions about French cosmetics and other industries. In a recent speech, he criticised both China and the United States for their trade practices, saying they both support protecting their own businesses and giving them subsidies. At the start of the meeting in Paris, Xi said “the world today has entered a new period of turbulence and change.” “As two important forces in the world, China and Europe should ... continuously make new contributions to world peace and development,” he said. Also watch | China's Xi Jinping in France: Ukraine, trade and investment top agenda Xi is starting his trip in Paris, trying to fix relationships during a tense time worldwide. After France, he's going to Serbia and Hungary. France wants Xi to talk to Russia about ending the war in Ukraine. Russia's president plans to visit China soon. Macron will ask Xi about Chinese companies helping Russia in the war, even though the EU said no. China says it's not taking sides in the Ukraine war, but France wants China to keep talking to Ukraine. Last year, Macron asked Xi to talk to Russia, but nothing happened. With France gearing up to host the Summer Olympics, Macron expressed his intention to urge Xi to leverage his influence to ensure that the Games become "a diplomatic moment of peace." These discussions will be closely monitored from Washington, particularly as they precede President Joe Biden's anticipated state visit to France next month. Also read | France sets record for world’s longest baguette, beats Italy after five years Xi's visit coincides with the 60th anniversary of France-China diplomatic relations, following Macron's journey to China in April 2023. Macron stirred controversy during that trip by stating that France would not blindly align with the US in crises unrelated to its interests, seemingly alluding to China's aspirations for Taiwan's reunification. (With inputs from agencies)

Macron prioritises trade and Ukraine talks as China’s Xi Jinping visits France

A five-year-old boy died when he was swept away by floodwaters in the US state of Texas. Storms in Texas brought additional rain to Houston on Sunday (May 5) where hundreds of people have been rescued from inundated homes and roads.

A five-year-old boy died when he was swept away by floodwaters in the US state of Texas. Storms in Texas brought additional rain to Houston on Sunday (May 5) where hundreds of people have been rescued from inundated homes and roads. Additional rain was also seen in other cities in the state. A report by the news agency Associated Press on Monday said that the boy from Forth Worth's Johnson County died when he was swept away after the vehicle he was riding in got stuck in swift-moving water near the community of Lillian. According to Johnson County Emergency Management director Jamie Moore, the child and two adults were trying to get to dry ground when they were swept away. Moore said that the adults were rescued and taken to a hospital, but the child was found dead in the floodwaters. On Sunday, National Weather Service meteorologist Jimmy Fowler said that over the last week, areas near Lake Livingston, located northeast of Houston, have gotten upwards of 23 inches of rain. Areas in northeastern Harris County, the nation’s third-largest county that includes Houston, witnessed six inches to almost 17 inches of rain in that same period, Fowler added. Scattered showers in the Houston area on Sunday brought light to moderate rainfall, he further said and pointed out that no further rain was expected from Monday onwards. Houston is one of the most flood-prone metro areas in the US. During the weekend, a wide region was swamped from the city to rural East Texas, the Associated Press reported. So far, authorities in Houston have not reported any deaths or injuries. (With inputs from agencies)

Floods in Texas: One child dies after being swept in floodwaters in US state

Multiple emails containing disturbing bomb threats were sent to more than two dozen Jewish institutions and synagogues in New York City on Saturday (May 4), as per the New York City Police Department.

Multiple emails containing disturbing bomb threats were sent to more than two dozen Jewish institutions and synagogues in New York City on Saturday (May 4), as per the New York City Police Department. The police officials in New York found the threats to be 'fake' and the authorities have been investigating the emails to find those who are behind these threats. “Hello, if you see this email just have notice of a bomb I have set inside of your building. This isn’t a threat. I have set a bomb in your building, you have a few hours to disarm or else blood will shatter everywhere," read the email, which was sent to the synagogues, as per The New York Post. As per the reports, the threats were sent by a group which called itself "Terrorizers111". The threats were mailed to 14 Manhattan synagogues and Jewish centres - two in Brooklyn and five in Queens - as well as two upstate temples and one on Long Island. A similar bomb threat was also sent to the New York Landmarks Conservancy. Also Read: Police clear pro-Palestinian encampment from USC campus, no arrests reported The bomb threats were sent amid heightened antisemitism in the United States as pro-Palestinian protesters established anti-Israeli encampments inside the campuses of the colleges, which also included Columbia University and City College. Govt to extend federal assistance to protect houses of worship US Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) on Sunday (May 5) announced that federal assistance of $400 million will be extended to protect houses of worship by providing funds to security guards, cameras and barriers. “Last night’s bomb threats targeting New York City synagogues created immense fear, but sadly, these threats are not a total shock given the rise in antisemitism that we have seen and the overall spike in threats to places of worship,” said Schumer, in a statement. “Protecting our nonprofit community spaces, like our synagogues, mosques, churches and more has unfortunately demanded more help at the federal level as the threats have increased. These funds are to help lessen the unease across the city in the places where we worship, pray, and learn," he added. He further added that he spoke to the FBI about the ongoing investigation. Watch: After US, pro-Palestine protests erupt in Germany, UK, France "I asked them to make every effort to track down who did this. It's hard to do, because those who do it can often hide where their email is coming from, where their phone calls are coming from, in either case. But the FBI has had good success, it takes time, and they are able to track many of these bad people who do this kind of activity down and then go after them," Schumer said. As per the Anti-Defamation League's data, 8,873 antisemitic incidents took place in the US last year, which is a 140 per cent spike in comparison to the 2022 figure. (With inputs from agencies)

Dozens of Jewish sites receive disturbing bomb threat emails in NYC: Report

Israel-Hamas war: Israel's retaliatory strike hits Gaza's southern city of Rafah. The war in Gaza is showing no signs of stopping hours after Hamas Rockets killed three IDF soldiers, Israel retaliated by striking Gaza's Southernmost city of Rafah. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli retaliates after Hamas kills 3 soldiers

A dashcam video from April 26 captured a moment when a powerful tornado destroyed a building in Lincoln, a city in the US state of Nebraska.&nbsp;

The deadly, multi-state outbreak of severe storms caused chaos in the US in late April. Parts of Oklahoma and nearby Great Plains states were severely damaged. Authorities said on April 28 that at least five people died.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kristi-noem-trump-vp-contender-suggests-bidens-dog-should-be-killed-too-718481">Kristi Noem, Trump VP contender, suggests Biden’s dog Commander should be killed too</a>&nbsp;

The building, seen in the video, was hit by the twister carrying winds as high as 254 km/h. The structure belonged to Garner Industries.&nbsp;

According to the local media, dozens of workers were inside the structure when a tornado struck, but all survived the incident.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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Dashcam video recorded on April 26 showed the moment a powerful tornado destroyed a building in Lincoln, Nebraska. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/jxxXq94O6h">pic.twitter.com/jxxXq94O6h</a>
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The National Weather Service (NWS) said that 78 tornadoes were reported on Friday (April 26), mostly in Nebraska and Iowa. A separate weather system brought 35 tornado reports on the next day from northern Texas and Oklahoma to Missouri, with the storms dumping up to seven 18 centimetres of rain in some places within hours.&nbsp;

Experts and meteorologists warned of a continuing danger of extreme weather Sunday, including flash flooding, hail and more tornadoes.&nbsp;

Last week, Omaha police Lt. Neal Bonacci said that hundreds of houses sustained damage in Omaha, mostly in the Elkhorn area in the western part of the city.&nbsp;

Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman had said that police and firefighters moved door-to-door to help people. Authorities reached the "hardest hit area" and had a plan to search anywhere someone could be trapped.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A dashcam video from April 26 captured a moment when a powerful tornado destroyed a building in Lincoln, a city in the US state of Nebraska. The deadly, multi-state outbreak of severe storms caused chaos in the US in late April.

A dashcam video from April 26 captured a moment when a powerful tornado destroyed a building in Lincoln, a city in the US state of Nebraska. The deadly, multi-state outbreak of severe storms caused chaos in the US in late April. Parts of Oklahoma and nearby Great Plains states were severely damaged. Authorities said on April 28 that at least five people died. Also read: Kristi Noem, Trump VP contender, suggests Biden’s dog Commander should be killed too The building, seen in the video, was hit by the twister carrying winds as high as 254 km/h. The structure belonged to Garner Industries. According to the local media, dozens of workers were inside the structure when a tornado struck, but all survived the incident. Watch the video here: Dashcam video recorded on April 26 showed the moment a powerful tornado destroyed a building in Lincoln, Nebraska. #NEwx pic.twitter.com/jxxXq94O6h — AccuWeather (@accuweather) May 6, 2024 × Also read: 5-year-old suffers cardiac arrest at UK theme park; mother arrested for negligence The National Weather Service (NWS) said that 78 tornadoes were reported on Friday (April 26), mostly in Nebraska and Iowa. A separate weather system brought 35 tornado reports on the next day from northern Texas and Oklahoma to Missouri, with the storms dumping up to seven 18 centimetres of rain in some places within hours. Experts and meteorologists warned of a continuing danger of extreme weather Sunday, including flash flooding, hail and more tornadoes. Last week, Omaha police Lt. Neal Bonacci said that hundreds of houses sustained damage in Omaha, mostly in the Elkhorn area in the western part of the city. Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman had said that police and firefighters moved door-to-door to help people. Authorities reached the "hardest hit area" and had a plan to search anywhere someone could be trapped. (With inputs from agencies)

Dashcam video shows moment when powerful tornado flattened building in Nebraska

Panama's former security minister Jose Raul Mulino won the Presidential Elections held on Sunday. Watch in for more details!

Panama 2024 Elections: Jose Raul Mulino elected Panama's President

Xi Jinping arrives in France | No pressure can stop US, says Israel PM Netanyahu

Australian police are searching for two Haryana brothers who fatally stabbed another individual of Indian descent in Melbourne early Sunday morning (May 5). 22-year-old MTech student Navjeet Sandhu, who also hails from&nbsp;Haryana’s&nbsp;Karnal, was stabbed to death as he tried to intervene in a dispute among Indian students over the rent issue.&nbsp;

Emergency services responded to the incident at 1 am at North Rd at Ormond in&nbsp; Melbourne’s&nbsp;southeast.&nbsp;

Police said they were searching for 26-year-old Abhijeet Abhijeet and 27-year-old Robin Gartan, both brothers, in connection with the murder.

The Australian quoted Detective Inspector Dean Thomas from the Homicide Squad as saying that the accused brothers were consuming alcohol at a&nbsp;“party or gathering.”

“Throughout the evening there were some altercations occurring … prior to 1am an altercation has occurred … resulting in the two victims being stabbed,”&nbsp;Inspector Thomas said.

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Meanwhile, relatives of Navjeet Sandhu in India have said the altercations occurred due to some disagreement over rent&nbsp;as&nbsp;all of the involved students used to live in the same house.

''Navjeet's&nbsp;friend (another Indian student) had asked him to accompany him to his house to pick up his belongings as he had a car. While his friend went inside, Navjeet heard some shouts and saw&nbsp;there was&nbsp;a scuffle. When Navjeet tried to intervene&nbsp;asking&nbsp;them not to fight, he&nbsp;was fatally stabbed&nbsp;in the chest with a knife,''&nbsp;said Yashvir from Karnal, the&nbsp;victim’s&nbsp;uncle.

He said the family received the information about the incident early Sunday morning.

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The family is in a state of shock.&nbsp;"Navjeet was a brilliant student and was to join his family in July for vacations,''&nbsp;he said.

Navjeet went to Australia on a study visa one-and-a-half years ago&nbsp;and&nbsp;his father, a farmer, had sold one-and-half acres of their land to fund his education, reported the Press Trust of India.

The family has urged the government of India to bring&nbsp;Navjeet’s&nbsp;dead body&nbsp;“as soon as possible.”

Australian police said the accused, Abhijeet and Robin, are travelling in a stolen 2014 white Toyota Camry sedan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Australian police are searching for two Haryana brothers who fatally stabbed another individual of Indian descent in Melbourne early Sunday morning (May 5). 22-year-old MTech student Navjeet Sandhu, who also hails from Haryana’s Karnal, was stabbed to death as he tried to intervene in a dispute among Indian students over the rent issue.

Australian police are searching for two Haryana brothers who fatally stabbed another individual of Indian descent in Melbourne early Sunday morning (May 5). 22-year-old MTech student Navjeet Sandhu, who also hails from Haryana’s Karnal, was stabbed to death as he tried to intervene in a dispute among Indian students over the rent issue. Emergency services responded to the incident at 1 am at North Rd at Ormond in Melbourne’s southeast. Police said they were searching for 26-year-old Abhijeet Abhijeet and 27-year-old Robin Gartan, both brothers, in connection with the murder. The Australian quoted Detective Inspector Dean Thomas from the Homicide Squad as saying that the accused brothers were consuming alcohol at a “party or gathering.” “Throughout the evening there were some altercations occurring … prior to 1am an altercation has occurred … resulting in the two victims being stabbed,” Inspector Thomas said. Also read: Qantas settles flight cancellation lawsuit with $66 million penalty Meanwhile, relatives of Navjeet Sandhu in India have said the altercations occurred due to some disagreement over rent as all of the involved students used to live in the same house. ''Navjeet's friend (another Indian student) had asked him to accompany him to his house to pick up his belongings as he had a car. While his friend went inside, Navjeet heard some shouts and saw there was a scuffle. When Navjeet tried to intervene asking them not to fight, he was fatally stabbed in the chest with a knife,'' said Yashvir from Karnal, the victim’s uncle. He said the family received the information about the incident early Sunday morning. Also read: Australia anticipates a smaller revenue upgrade citing global economic weakness The family is in a state of shock. "Navjeet was a brilliant student and was to join his family in July for vacations,'' he said. Navjeet went to Australia on a study visa one-and-a-half years ago and his father, a farmer, had sold one-and-half acres of their land to fund his education, reported the Press Trust of India. The family has urged the government of India to bring Navjeet’s dead body “as soon as possible.” Australian police said the accused, Abhijeet and Robin, are travelling in a stolen 2014 white Toyota Camry sedan. (With inputs from agencies)

Melbourne police searching for two Haryana students following fatal stabbing incident

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Columbia University on Monday (May 6) announced that it has cancelled the main ceremony for graduating students next week amid the protests on campus by students over the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

The prestigious university in the United States stated that it would "forego the university-wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15" and hold a series of smaller events instead.&nbsp;

"We have decided to make the centerpiece of our commencement activities our Class Days and school-level ceremonies, where students are honoured individually alongside their peers, rather than the University-wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15," Columbia said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-updates-ceasefire-negotiations-to-begin-in-qatar-today-718328">Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas ahead of ground invasion: Hamas</a>&nbsp;

Columbia called the past few weeks "incredibly difficult for our community" and further said that they are "determined to give our students the celebration they deserve and "smaller-scale, school-based celebrations are most meaningful to them and their families".&nbsp;

"We will focus our resources on those school ceremonies and on keeping them safe, respectful, and running smoothly. A great deal of effort is already underway to reach that goal," the university added.&nbsp;

The statement further added that the school consulted with student leaders in deciding how to handle graduation. The majority of the ceremonies, which had been set to take place on the Morningside Heights campus where most of the protests have taken place, will be moved to the university's main athletic complex.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-orders-of-nuclear-drills-response-to-unprecedented-comments-from-west-718498">Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Protest at Columbia University&nbsp;</h2>

The violent protest at Columbia University drew national attention with former United States president Donald Trump even comparing it to the January 6 Capitol attack.&nbsp;

The protest at Columbia University inspired similar demonstrations at dozens of universities around the US, with students calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and demanding their schools divest from companies with ties to Israel.&nbsp;

New York City police cleared a Columbia campus building last week that had been barricaded by pro-Palestinian protesters, arresting more than 100 people and dismantling an encampment.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel moving ahead of Gaza offensive?

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Meanwhile, the White House said on Monday that US President Joe Biden will speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after Israel's military called for Palestinians to evacuate eastern Rafah ahead of an offensive in the southern Gaza city.&nbsp;

"We can't speak for IDF operations. We have made our views clear on a major ground invasion of Rafah to the Israeli government, and the president will speak with the prime minister today," a spokesman for the National Security Council told the news agency AFP.

"We continue to believe that a hostage deal is the best way to preserve the lives of the hostages, and avoid an invasion of Rafah, where more than a million people are sheltering.

"Those talks are ongoing now."&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)

Columbia University on Monday (May 6) announced that it has cancelled the main ceremony for graduating students next week amid the protests on campus by students over the ongoing war in Gaza.

Columbia University on Monday (May 6) announced that it has cancelled the main ceremony for graduating students next week amid the protests on campus by students over the ongoing war in Gaza. The prestigious university in the United States stated that it would "forego the university-wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15" and hold a series of smaller events instead. "We have decided to make the centerpiece of our commencement activities our Class Days and school-level ceremonies, where students are honoured individually alongside their peers, rather than the University-wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15," Columbia said in a statement. Also read: Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas ahead of ground invasion: Hamas Columbia called the past few weeks "incredibly difficult for our community" and further said that they are "determined to give our students the celebration they deserve and "smaller-scale, school-based celebrations are most meaningful to them and their families". "We will focus our resources on those school ceremonies and on keeping them safe, respectful, and running smoothly. A great deal of effort is already underway to reach that goal," the university added. The statement further added that the school consulted with student leaders in deciding how to handle graduation. The majority of the ceremonies, which had been set to take place on the Morningside Heights campus where most of the protests have taken place, will be moved to the university's main athletic complex. Also read: Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin Protest at Columbia University The violent protest at Columbia University drew national attention with former United States president Donald Trump even comparing it to the January 6 Capitol attack. The protest at Columbia University inspired similar demonstrations at dozens of universities around the US, with students calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and demanding their schools divest from companies with ties to Israel. New York City police cleared a Columbia campus building last week that had been barricaded by pro-Palestinian protesters, arresting more than 100 people and dismantling an encampment. Watch: Israel moving ahead of Gaza offensive? × Meanwhile, the White House said on Monday that US President Joe Biden will speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after Israel's military called for Palestinians to evacuate eastern Rafah ahead of an offensive in the southern Gaza city. "We can't speak for IDF operations. We have made our views clear on a major ground invasion of Rafah to the Israeli government, and the president will speak with the prime minister today," a spokesman for the National Security Council told the news agency AFP. "We continue to believe that a hostage deal is the best way to preserve the lives of the hostages, and avoid an invasion of Rafah, where more than a million people are sheltering. "Those talks are ongoing now." 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)

Columbia University’s main graduation ceremony cancelled due to Gaza protests

Latin America's transit powerhouse Panama elected Jose Raul Mulino as its new president. Deemed an investor favourite candidate, Mulino rose to the favour of voters by pledging to revive the economy, crack down on drug cartels and shut down the illegal migration routes to the United States.&nbsp;

Mulino ran in place of the fugitive former leader Ricardo Martinelli, who was banned from participating and sought asylum in Nicaragua's embassy after a money laundering conviction.&nbsp;

<h2>Panama Elections: What do the results look like?</h2>

With 87 per cent of votes tallied on Sunday (May 5), Mulino, a 64-year-old lawyer, had 34 per cent of the vote, to 25 per cent for his nearest rival Ricardo Lombana.&nbsp;

The election authority declared Mulino the winner after the other main candidates all conceded.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-no-gaza-truce-breakthrough-in-cairo-tories-lose-london-to-sadiq-khan-yet-again-and-more-718274">The Capitals: No Gaza truce breakthrough in Cairo; Tories lose London to Sadiq Khan yet again; and more</a>

Mulino accepted his victory and said he would seek the formation of a government of national unity. He will take office on July 1, replacing President Laurentino Cortizo, who was not eligible for re-election.&nbsp;

<h2>Panama Elections 2024: What were the issues?</h2>

Panama has been battered by unrest, credit rating downgrades, low water levels in the Panama canal and the closure of a major copper mine that has led to massive trade deficit with China. During the campaign, Mulino said he would use public works projects and incentives for foreign investors to target nominal economic growth of 7 per cent.

Panama had been the top performing economy in Latin America for past few decades. But according to the International Monetary Fund, the Latin American country will grow just 2.5 per cent this year.

But the top public contention is the way to reopen First Quantum Minerals Ltd's $10bn copper mine. The country's Supreme Court in December ruled that a contract for the mine violated the constitution and ordered it shut.&nbsp;

In his concession speech, the outgoing President Lombana warned his successor Mulino against renegotiating the mine contract, warning that this would bring people into the streets.

<h2>Panama Elections 2024: New president's priorities</h2>

Community protests across the country have focused on new sources of water for the Panama canal after a severe drought this year led to the restriction of transits through the waterway.

Mulino’s policies may also have an impact on the US presidential election in November in which migration is one of the voters' top concerns.

Also watch |&nbsp;Panama elections: Eight candidates on ballot for May 5th Presidential race

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Mulino has said he will shut the trails through the dense jungle region between Colombia and Panama.&nbsp;

More than half a million migrants passed through this route last year.

Mulino has also promised a "full-frontal assault" on drug trafficking.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Latin America's transit powerhouse Panama elected Jose Raul Mulino as its new president. Deemed an investor favourite candidate, Mulino rose to the favour of voters by pledging to revive the economy, crack down on drug cartels and shut down the illegal migration routes to the United States.

Latin America's transit powerhouse Panama elected Jose Raul Mulino as its new president. Deemed an investor favourite candidate, Mulino rose to the favour of voters by pledging to revive the economy, crack down on drug cartels and shut down the illegal migration routes to the United States. Mulino ran in place of the fugitive former leader Ricardo Martinelli, who was banned from participating and sought asylum in Nicaragua's embassy after a money laundering conviction. Panama Elections: What do the results look like? With 87 per cent of votes tallied on Sunday (May 5), Mulino, a 64-year-old lawyer, had 34 per cent of the vote, to 25 per cent for his nearest rival Ricardo Lombana. The election authority declared Mulino the winner after the other main candidates all conceded. Also read | The Capitals: No Gaza truce breakthrough in Cairo; Tories lose London to Sadiq Khan yet again; and more Mulino accepted his victory and said he would seek the formation of a government of national unity. He will take office on July 1, replacing President Laurentino Cortizo, who was not eligible for re-election. Panama Elections 2024: What were the issues? Panama has been battered by unrest, credit rating downgrades, low water levels in the Panama canal and the closure of a major copper mine that has led to massive trade deficit with China. During the campaign, Mulino said he would use public works projects and incentives for foreign investors to target nominal economic growth of 7 per cent. Panama had been the top performing economy in Latin America for past few decades. But according to the International Monetary Fund, the Latin American country will grow just 2.5 per cent this year. But the top public contention is the way to reopen First Quantum Minerals Ltd's $10bn copper mine. The country's Supreme Court in December ruled that a contract for the mine violated the constitution and ordered it shut. In his concession speech, the outgoing President Lombana warned his successor Mulino against renegotiating the mine contract, warning that this would bring people into the streets. Panama Elections 2024: New president's priorities Community protests across the country have focused on new sources of water for the Panama canal after a severe drought this year led to the restriction of transits through the waterway. Mulino’s policies may also have an impact on the US presidential election in November in which migration is one of the voters' top concerns. Also watch | Panama elections: Eight candidates on ballot for May 5th Presidential race × Mulino has said he will shut the trails through the dense jungle region between Colombia and Panama. More than half a million migrants passed through this route last year. Mulino has also promised a "full-frontal assault" on drug trafficking. (With inputs from agencies)

Panama elects new president on pro-investor, migrant trail shutdown plank

Sixteen people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah city, the news agency AFP reported early Monday (May 6), citing medics and first responders. "The toll of martyrs in Rafah reached 16," emergency first responders told AFP, adding that seven people from one family and nine from another family were killed in the Israeli attacks. Medical sources, meanwhile, confirmed two strikes they said took place at two different locations around Rafah. 'Three Israeli soldiers killed in Hamas attack' The airstrikes came hours after Hamas claimed responsibility for a rocket attack near Rafah which Israel said killed three of its soldiers and injured 11 more. Hamas' armed wing said it fired rockets at an Israeli army base by the Kerem Shalom crossing into Gaza. Also read | Israel cabinet votes to shut down Al Jazeera offices in country; Hamas reacts The Israeli military confirmed the counter-strike, saying it struck the launcher from which the Hamas projectiles were fired, as well as a nearby "military structure." The military said 10 projectiles were launched from Rafah in southern Gaza towards the area of Kerem Shalom, which it said was now closed for aid trucks going into the coastal enclave. Other crossings remained open. "The launches carried out by Hamas adjacent to the Rafah Crossing ... are a clear example of the terrorist organisation's systematic exploitation of humanitarian facilities and spaces and their continued use of the Gazan civilian population as human shields," the military added. Hamas delegation to be in Qatar for truce talks Sunday's attacks came as hopes dimmed for ceasefire talks between the warring factions. A Hamas official said that the group's delegation for Gaza truce talks in Cairo was leaving for "consultations" in Qatar after public disagreement with Israel intensified over demands to end their seven-month war. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × The official, who chose to remain anonymous, told AFP that "the meeting with the Egyptian intelligence minister has ended and the Hamas delegation is leaving for Doha for further consultations." Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said "surrendering" to a demand to end the war would amount to defeat. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: 16 killed in Israeli airstrikes in Rafah following rocket attack by Hamas

Floods and landslides across Kenya have killed 228&nbsp;people since March, with hundreds of thousands forced to leave their homes, the government and Red Cross said on Wednesday, as dozens more were killed in neighbouring Tanzania and Burundi.

Torrential rain and floods have destroyed homes, roads, bridges and other infrastructure across the region. The death toll in Kenya exceeds that from floods triggered by the El Nino weather phenomenon late last year.

In the central Kenyan town of Mai Mahiu, where at least 48 died in flash floods on Monday, two bodies were recovered from the debris on Wednesday, Kenya Red Cross South Rift Regional Manager Felix Maiyo said.

Military personnel accompanied by sniffer dogs had joined the search, Maiyo said. Earlier on Wednesday, government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the total death toll had risen by 10 to 179.

Last year's rains followed the worst drought in large parts of East Africa in decades.

In Kitengela, 33 km (20 miles) from Nairobi, Kenya Red Cross workers were helping to rescue residents whose homes were marooned by flood waters.

They were also trying to rescue tourists trapped at camps in Narok, 215 km from Nairobi, the Kenya Red Cross said on social media platform X.

Kenya's national highways authority said it had closed a section of a highway leading to the city and at least three other roads across the country due to flooding and debris.

The disaster prompted Pope Francis to speak out in sympathy with Kenyans during a general audience on Wednesday at the Vatican.

"I ... wish to express to the people of Kenya my spiritual closeness at this time as severe flooding has tragically taken the lives of many of our brothers and sisters, injured others and caused widespread destruction," he said.

The White House on Wednesday extended condolences to victims' families and said the United States is contributing to response efforts through the U.S. Agency for International Development.

"We continue to offer our continued and resolute support to all who have been impacted and are closely monitoring the situation," White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters at a briefing.

Floods and landslides across Kenya have killed 228 people since March, with hundreds of thousands forced to leave their homes, the government and Red Cross said on Wednesday, as dozens more were killed in neighbouring Tanzania and Burundi.

Floods and landslides across Kenya have killed 228 people since March, with hundreds of thousands forced to leave their homes, the government and Red Cross said on Wednesday, as dozens more were killed in neighbouring Tanzania and Burundi. Torrential rain and floods have destroyed homes, roads, bridges and other infrastructure across the region. The death toll in Kenya exceeds that from floods triggered by the El Nino weather phenomenon late last year. In the central Kenyan town of Mai Mahiu, where at least 48 died in flash floods on Monday, two bodies were recovered from the debris on Wednesday, Kenya Red Cross South Rift Regional Manager Felix Maiyo said. Military personnel accompanied by sniffer dogs had joined the search, Maiyo said. Earlier on Wednesday, government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the total death toll had risen by 10 to 179. Last year's rains followed the worst drought in large parts of East Africa in decades. In Kitengela, 33 km (20 miles) from Nairobi, Kenya Red Cross workers were helping to rescue residents whose homes were marooned by flood waters. They were also trying to rescue tourists trapped at camps in Narok, 215 km from Nairobi, the Kenya Red Cross said on social media platform X. Kenya's national highways authority said it had closed a section of a highway leading to the city and at least three other roads across the country due to flooding and debris. The disaster prompted Pope Francis to speak out in sympathy with Kenyans during a general audience on Wednesday at the Vatican. "I ... wish to express to the people of Kenya my spiritual closeness at this time as severe flooding has tragically taken the lives of many of our brothers and sisters, injured others and caused widespread destruction," he said. The White House on Wednesday extended condolences to victims' families and said the United States is contributing to response efforts through the U.S. Agency for International Development. "We continue to offer our continued and resolute support to all who have been impacted and are closely monitoring the situation," White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters at a briefing.

Kenya flood toll rises to 228 as homes and roads are destroyed

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Israeli strikes on Rafah kill at least 22 - Xi Jinping arrives in France - Russia holds rehearsal for victory day parade - Brazil flooding kills at least 28

Xi Jinping arrives in France | Brazil flooding kills at least 78

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