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In a very strange incident, a Belgian court dismissed a drink-driving charge against a man after they found that he was suffering from a rare metabolic condition which led to the production of alcohol in his body.

In a very strange incident, a Belgian court dismissed a drink-driving charge against a man after they found that he was suffering from a rare metabolic condition which led to the production of alcohol in his body. In the court, the 40-year-old man was able to prove that he was suffering from auto-brewery syndrome (ABS), in which the carbohydrates get fermented in his stomach and increase ethanol levels in his blood which finally leads to signs of intoxication. The unusual case was confirmed to Agence France-Presse by the man's lawyer Anse Ghesquiere after it was reported in Belgian media. The lawyer said that as per the scientists, the number of ABS cases present in the entire world has remained underestimated. Till now, only around 20 people have been officially diagnosed with ABS condition. Also Read: Alcohol-induced blackouts linked to drinking patterns, not just quantity: Study The woman emphasised that her client, whose identity was not disclosed, provided evidence of his ABS after three doctors conducted tests on him. The factors which led to the scenario and were unforeseen by law in the man's case were recognised by the court and he was acquitted of the charge. How did the rare case unfold? The man knocked on the doors of the court after his vehicle was pulled over by the police in April 2022 and a drink-driving charge was registered against him after his breathalyser reading was 0.91 milligrams of alcohol per litre, and his breath was found containing 0.71 milligrams again a month later. In Belgium, the legal limit is 0.22 milligrams per litre of air exhaled which is similar to a blood-alcohol level remaining at 0.5 gram per litre. In 2019, the man had again landed in trouble. He was fined and his driving licence was suspended even though he had claimed that he had not drunk any alcohol. Watch: Decoding: 2024's latest travel trend: What is 'Gig-Tripping'? Apparently, the man was not aware of his syndrome till his recent run-in with the police. Ghesquiere stated that she and the accused man are waiting for his acquittal's formal notification. She emphasised that an appeal was to be lodged by the prosecution service a month ago if it wished to do so. Meanwhile, the man has now switched to a carbohydrate-light diet so that his stomach is not producing more alcohol. During his initial court appearance in March, he was requested by the prosecutor to avoid any alcoholic beverages, reported the Belgian state television channel VRT. (With inputs from agencies)

Belgium dismisses drink-driving charge against man because, wait for it... his body brews alcohol

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Ten people were killed after two navy helicopters rehearsing for a Royal Malaysian Navy celebration event collided mid-air above Lumut naval stadium on Tuesday (Apr 23).

&nbsp;

<h2>Video of tragedy shocks netizens</h2>

Footage published by local media showed the moment when one chopper clipped the rotor of the other before both crashed into the ground.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/boeing-adjusts-787-production-plans-due-to-supplier-shortages-714052">Boeing adjusts 787 production plans due to supplier shortages</a>

In a statement,&nbsp;Suhaimy Mohamad Suhail, senior operations commander from the fire and rescue department, said, "The two helicopters collided during flight training. All 10 victims on board have been confirmed dead by the medical officers."

Video of the tragic incident is being widely shared on social media. You can watch it here.&nbsp;Viewer discretion is advised:&nbsp;

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BREAKING: 🇲🇾 2 military helicopters crash after mid-air collision in Malaysia, killing all 10 people on board <a href="https://t.co/ckiEaqnd4R">pic.twitter.com/ckiEaqnd4R</a>
— Megatron (@Megatron_ron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Megatron_ron/status/1782618136002347085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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As per reports, the aircraft were&nbsp;flying low in a formation over the Lumut naval stadium in a flypast rehearsal ahead of the Malaysian navy fleet’s open day celebrations, slated to be celebrated&nbsp;in May.

The two helicopters involved were a Eurocopter AS555SN Fennec and an AgustaWestland AW139, said the rescue agency, as reported by AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-us-puts-out-long-list-of-human-rights-violations-in-israel-palestinian-territories-714047">Gaza war: US puts out long list of human rights violations in Israel, Palestinian territories</a>

Photos of the incident&nbsp;show the wreckage of the heavily mangled Eurocopter&nbsp;on the naval base stadium track.&nbsp;The AgustaWestland helicopter, on the other hand, crashed into the naval base's swimming pool area.

The nation's Prime Minister has shared his condolences for the victims.

In a statement, PM Anwar Ibrahim told the families of the victims that "the nation mourns the heart-wrenching and soul-wrenching tragedy".

"I was informed that an immediate investigation will be carried out by the Ministry of Defense, especially TLDM (Royal Malaysian Navy), to find the cause of the crash," he stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ten people were killed after two navy helicopters rehearsing for a Royal Malaysian Navy celebration event collided mid-air above Lumut naval stadium on Tuesday (Apr 23).

Ten people were killed after two navy helicopters rehearsing for a Royal Malaysian Navy celebration event collided mid-air above Lumut naval stadium on Tuesday (Apr 23). Video of tragedy shocks netizens Footage published by local media showed the moment when one chopper clipped the rotor of the other before both crashed into the ground. Also read | Boeing adjusts 787 production plans due to supplier shortages In a statement, Suhaimy Mohamad Suhail, senior operations commander from the fire and rescue department, said, "The two helicopters collided during flight training. All 10 victims on board have been confirmed dead by the medical officers." Video of the tragic incident is being widely shared on social media. You can watch it here. Viewer discretion is advised: BREAKING: 🇲🇾 2 military helicopters crash after mid-air collision in Malaysia, killing all 10 people on board pic.twitter.com/ckiEaqnd4R — Megatron (@Megatron_ron) April 23, 2024 × As per reports, the aircraft were flying low in a formation over the Lumut naval stadium in a flypast rehearsal ahead of the Malaysian navy fleet’s open day celebrations, slated to be celebrated in May. The two helicopters involved were a Eurocopter AS555SN Fennec and an AgustaWestland AW139, said the rescue agency, as reported by AFP. Also read | Gaza war: US puts out long list of human rights violations in Israel, Palestinian territories Photos of the incident show the wreckage of the heavily mangled Eurocopter on the naval base stadium track. The AgustaWestland helicopter, on the other hand, crashed into the naval base's swimming pool area. The nation's Prime Minister has shared his condolences for the victims. In a statement, PM Anwar Ibrahim told the families of the victims that "the nation mourns the heart-wrenching and soul-wrenching tragedy". "I was informed that an immediate investigation will be carried out by the Ministry of Defense, especially TLDM (Royal Malaysian Navy), to find the cause of the crash," he stated. (With inputs from agencies)

10 killed as 2 helicopters collide mid-air during Malaysia's Navy event rehearsals

In Southern China, the highest level rainstorm warning has been sounded, with torrential rains leading to swelling rivers and raising fears of severe flooding.

<h2>Once-a-century floods</h2>

With the looming threat of severe flooding, which as per state media reports could be the sort only "seen around once a century," more than 100,000 people have been evacuated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-helicopters-collide-mid-air-during-royal-malaysian-navy-celebration-event-rehearsals-714045">Two helicopters collide mid-air during Royal Malaysian Navy celebration event rehearsals</a>

On Tuesday, the megacity of Shenzhen was one of the areas experiencing "heavy to very heavy downpours". Shenzhen's meteorological observatory in a warning said&nbsp;the risk of flash floods was "very high".

Authorities in Shenzhen sounded a red alert on Tuesday (Apr 23), cautioning people: "Please quickly take precautions and stay away from dangerous areas such as low-lying areas prone to flooding."

"Pay attention to heavy rains and resulting disasters such as water logging, flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and ground caving in," added the statement.

From Qingyuan, located near the Bei River tributary, more than 45,000 people have been evacuated, according to official media reports.

Across Guangdong, 110,000 residents have been relocated since the rains started over the weekend, reported state news agency Xinhua.

<h2>Death toll</h2>

According to an AFP report, four people have died due to the rains, while another 10 remain missing.

Recent years have seen China struggling with severe floods, record heatwaves and severe droughts. The intense weather events as per experts are driven by human-emitted greenhouse gases, of which China happens to be the biggest contributor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-small-towns-experience-renaissance-as-megacities-lose-lustre-says-bloomberg-report-714084">China's small towns experience renaissance as megacities lose lustre, says Bloomberg report</a>

Just last September, the nation experienced the heaviest rains since records began in 1952.

The nearby semi-autonomous city of Hong Kong also recorded its heaviest rainfall in nearly 140 years.

As per a United Nations report released recently, in 2023, Asia was the most disaster-hit region from climate and weather hazards.

(With inputs from agencies)

In Southern China, the highest level rainstorm warning has been sounded, with torrential rains leading to swelling rivers and raising fears of severe flooding. Once-a-century floods With the looming threat of severe flooding, which as per state media reports could be the sort only "seen around once a century," more than 100,000 people have been evacuated.

In Southern China, the highest level rainstorm warning has been sounded, with torrential rains leading to swelling rivers and raising fears of severe flooding. Once-a-century floods With the looming threat of severe flooding, which as per state media reports could be the sort only "seen around once a century," more than 100,000 people have been evacuated. Also read | Two helicopters collide mid-air during Royal Malaysian Navy celebration event rehearsals On Tuesday, the megacity of Shenzhen was one of the areas experiencing "heavy to very heavy downpours". Shenzhen's meteorological observatory in a warning said the risk of flash floods was "very high". Authorities in Shenzhen sounded a red alert on Tuesday (Apr 23), cautioning people: "Please quickly take precautions and stay away from dangerous areas such as low-lying areas prone to flooding." "Pay attention to heavy rains and resulting disasters such as water logging, flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and ground caving in," added the statement. From Qingyuan, located near the Bei River tributary, more than 45,000 people have been evacuated, according to official media reports. Across Guangdong, 110,000 residents have been relocated since the rains started over the weekend, reported state news agency Xinhua. Death toll According to an AFP report, four people have died due to the rains, while another 10 remain missing. Recent years have seen China struggling with severe floods, record heatwaves and severe droughts. The intense weather events as per experts are driven by human-emitted greenhouse gases, of which China happens to be the biggest contributor. Also read | China's small towns experience renaissance as megacities lose lustre, says Bloomberg report Just last September, the nation experienced the heaviest rains since records began in 1952. The nearby semi-autonomous city of Hong Kong also recorded its heaviest rainfall in nearly 140 years. As per a United Nations report released recently, in 2023, Asia was the most disaster-hit region from climate and weather hazards. (With inputs from agencies)

Red alert sounded in China amid fears of massive 'once-a-century' floods

In the United States of America, US President Joe Biden slams anti-Israel protests at American universities. He says such blatant anti-Semitism is reprehensible and dangerous.

US: Jewish students continue to feel targeted

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Hamas ally Hezbollah said on Monday it had fired "dozens" of Katyusha rockets at an army headquarters in northern Israel in response to raids targeting villages in southern Lebanon.

Since Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel triggered war in Gaza, there have been near-daily cross-border exchanges of fire between the Israeli army and Iran-backed Hezbollah.&nbsp;

With Israel-Iran tensions at an all-time high, the Lebanese Shiite militant group has intensified its attacks on Israel military targets across the border.

A Hezbollah statement said it had bombarded "the headquarters of the 3rd Infantry Brigade of the 91st Division at Ein Zeitim Base with dozens of Katyusha rockets".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/idf-jets-hit-hezbollah-targets-in-southern-lebanon-overnight-713558" hreflang="en">IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight, kill operatives</a>

This was in response to Israeli attacks on "southern villages and civilian homes", most recently in Srifa, Odaisseh and Rab Tlatin.

Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported Israeli strikes on the three villages on Monday.

The Israeli military said "approximately 35 launches were identified crossing from Lebanon into the area of Ein Zeitim in northern Israel" and that no injuries were reported.

It said "troops struck the sources of the launches".

Since October 7 at least 376 people have been killed in Lebanon, mostly Hezbollah fighters but also 70 civilians, according to an AFP tally.

Israel says 10 soldiers and eight civilians have been killed on its side of the border.

Hamas ally Hezbollah said on Monday it had fired "dozens" of Katyusha rockets at an army headquarters in northern Israel in response to raids targeting villages in southern Lebanon.

Hamas ally Hezbollah said on Monday it had fired "dozens" of Katyusha rockets at an army headquarters in northern Israel in response to raids targeting villages in southern Lebanon. Since Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel triggered war in Gaza, there have been near-daily cross-border exchanges of fire between the Israeli army and Iran-backed Hezbollah. With Israel-Iran tensions at an all-time high, the Lebanese Shiite militant group has intensified its attacks on Israel military targets across the border. A Hezbollah statement said it had bombarded "the headquarters of the 3rd Infantry Brigade of the 91st Division at Ein Zeitim Base with dozens of Katyusha rockets". Also read: IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight, kill operatives This was in response to Israeli attacks on "southern villages and civilian homes", most recently in Srifa, Odaisseh and Rab Tlatin. Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported Israeli strikes on the three villages on Monday. The Israeli military said "approximately 35 launches were identified crossing from Lebanon into the area of Ein Zeitim in northern Israel" and that no injuries were reported. It said "troops struck the sources of the launches". Since October 7 at least 376 people have been killed in Lebanon, mostly Hezbollah fighters but also 70 civilians, according to an AFP tally. Israel says 10 soldiers and eight civilians have been killed on its side of the border.

Hezbollah says 'dozens' of rockets fired at Israeli Army HQ in north

In 2023, Asia earned a title that is anything but an achievement: the world's most disaster-hit region by climate-related hazards.

Asia was worst-hit with floods and storms causing the highest number of casualties last year,&nbsp;as per a report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released on Tuesday (Apr 23).

As per the United Nations agency Asia reported 79 disasters linked to hydro-meteorological events in 2023. Of these, more than 80 per cent were related to floods and storms and collectively had a death toll of over 2,000, while another nine million people were directly affected, said the WMO.

<h2>Global Warming and Asia</h2>

According to&nbsp;WMO, last year global temperatures rose to record highs, and Asia was warming faster than the rest of the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-alert-sounded-in-china-amid-fears-of-massive-once-a-century-floods-714109">Red alert sounded in China amid fears of massive 'once a century' floods</a>

Last year, the continent recorded temperatures nearly two degrees Celsius above the 1961 to 1990 average, reported Reuters citing the WMO. Furthermore, Asia's annual mean near-surface temperature was the second-highest on record, at 0.91 degrees Celsius above the 1991-2020 average.

Rising temperatures, coupled with melting glaciers, threaten the region's future water security, said WMO.

In a statement, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said: "The report's conclusions are sobering."

"Many countries in the region experienced their hottest year on record in 2023, along with a barrage of extreme conditions, from droughts and heatwaves to floods and storms".

"Climate change exacerbated the frequency and severity of such events, profoundly impacting societies, economies, and, most importantly, human lives and the environment that we live in," added the WMO chief.

<h2>World's most disaster-hit region</h2>

"Asia remained the world's most disaster-hit region from weather, climate and water-related hazards in 2023," said WMO, as reported by AFP.

Across Asia, particularly high average temperatures were recorded. Japan had its hottest summer on record. Meanwhile, the Himalayas and the Hindu Kush mountain range in Pakistan and Afghanistan saw below-normal precipitation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/deaths-due-to-heat-at-all-time-high-heatwaves-in-europe-linked-to-30-increase-in-fatalities-713795">Deaths due to heat at all-time high; heatwaves in Europe linked to 30% increase in fatalities</a>

China, meanwhile, suffered through a drought as it recorded below-normal precipitation levels nearly every month.

Furthermore, over the past several decades, the High-Mountain Asia region, centred on the Tibetan Plateau, recorded glaciers retreating at an increasingly accelerating rate.

Out of the 22 monitored glaciers in the region&nbsp;— which boasts the largest volume of ice outside the polar regions — 20 showed continued mass ice loss last year.

"It is imperative that our actions and strategies mirror the urgency of these times," stressed Saulo. "Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the evolving climate is not merely an option, but a fundamental necessity."

(With inputs from agencies)

In 2023, Asia earned a title that is anything but an achievement: the world's most disaster-hit region by climate-related hazards. Asia was worst-hit with floods and storms causing the highest number of casualties last year, as per a report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released on Tuesday (Apr 23).

In 2023, Asia earned a title that is anything but an achievement: the world's most disaster-hit region by climate-related hazards. Asia was worst-hit with floods and storms causing the highest number of casualties last year, as per a report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released on Tuesday (Apr 23). As per the United Nations agency Asia reported 79 disasters linked to hydro-meteorological events in 2023. Of these, more than 80 per cent were related to floods and storms and collectively had a death toll of over 2,000, while another nine million people were directly affected, said the WMO. Global Warming and Asia According to WMO, last year global temperatures rose to record highs, and Asia was warming faster than the rest of the world. Also read | Red alert sounded in China amid fears of massive 'once a century' floods Last year, the continent recorded temperatures nearly two degrees Celsius above the 1961 to 1990 average, reported Reuters citing the WMO. Furthermore, Asia's annual mean near-surface temperature was the second-highest on record, at 0.91 degrees Celsius above the 1991-2020 average. Rising temperatures, coupled with melting glaciers, threaten the region's future water security, said WMO. In a statement, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said: "The report's conclusions are sobering." "Many countries in the region experienced their hottest year on record in 2023, along with a barrage of extreme conditions, from droughts and heatwaves to floods and storms". "Climate change exacerbated the frequency and severity of such events, profoundly impacting societies, economies, and, most importantly, human lives and the environment that we live in," added the WMO chief. World's most disaster-hit region "Asia remained the world's most disaster-hit region from weather, climate and water-related hazards in 2023," said WMO, as reported by AFP. Across Asia, particularly high average temperatures were recorded. Japan had its hottest summer on record. Meanwhile, the Himalayas and the Hindu Kush mountain range in Pakistan and Afghanistan saw below-normal precipitation. Also read | Deaths due to heat at all-time high; heatwaves in Europe linked to 30% increase in fatalities China, meanwhile, suffered through a drought as it recorded below-normal precipitation levels nearly every month. Furthermore, over the past several decades, the High-Mountain Asia region, centred on the Tibetan Plateau, recorded glaciers retreating at an increasingly accelerating rate. Out of the 22 monitored glaciers in the region — which boasts the largest volume of ice outside the polar regions — 20 showed continued mass ice loss last year. "It is imperative that our actions and strategies mirror the urgency of these times," stressed Saulo. "Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the evolving climate is not merely an option, but a fundamental necessity." (With inputs from agencies)

Asia warming faster than rest of the world, was 'most disaster-hit region' in 2023: UN

The White House condemns the pro-Palestinian protests that have rocked New York City’s Columbia University over the past week. College campuses across the US have been rocked by demonstrations for months.

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The Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei expressed appreciation towards the country's armed forces for their recent attack on Israel and asked them to study the tactics of their adversaries. In Maldives, parliamentary election voting is over and counting is underway, with results soon to be out. As per a report, counting is completed in 203 seats, with Muizzu's PNC bagged 59 seats.&nbsp;

In other world news, the family of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali student who was abducted by Hamas in Gaza, is now appealing to the international community for his release.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ali-khamenei-thanks-iranian-forces-for-attacking-israel-urges-them-to-learn-enemy-tactics-713597">‘Learn enemy tactics’: Khamenei thanks Iranian forces for attacking Israel</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/21/426523-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei on Sunday (Apr 21) expressed gratitude towards the country’s armed forces for attacking Israel. He also urged the Iranian forces to "ceaselessly pursue military innovation and learn the enemy's tactics," reported Iran’s official news agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-parliamentary-elections-voting-begins-for-parliament-results-expected-later-today-713526">Maldives votes in election key to its India, China relations</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/21/426482-untitled-design-5.png?imwidth=400" />

Voting for the parliamentary elections in Maldives began on Sunday (Apr 21). The elections are crucial for President Mohamed Muizzu, whose policies are being keenly watched by India and China. Both countries are seeking a foothold in the Maldives, which has a strategic location in the Indian Ocean. Muizzu's election as president last year has sharpened the rivalry between New Delhi and Beijing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepali-family-of-child-captive-to-hamas-turns-to-intl-community-as-faith-in-nepal-govt-wanes-713592">Kin of Nepali student held captive by Hamas turn to international community</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/21/426518-nepali.png?imwidth=400" />

The family of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali student who was taken hostage by Hamas in Gaza, is now pleading&nbsp;international community for his release. The family arrived from over 500 km to the capital Kathmandu, to raise voice for their son.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nimisha-priya-kerala-nurses-mom-reaches-yemen-to-rescue-her-from-death-sentence-713620">Nimisha Priya: Kerala nurse's mom in Yemen to rescue her from death penalty</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/21/426533-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-04-21t192716027.jpg?imwidth=400" />

On Saturday night (Apr&nbsp;20), Nimisha Priya's mother, Premakumari, and Samuel Jerome, the chairman of the 'Save Nimisha' Action Council and a human rights activist, arrived at Yemen's international airport. Their purpose is to visit Nimisha Priya, who is currently detained in a Yemeni prison.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-extremely-rare-case-pakistani-woman-gives-birth-to-6-babies-within-an-hour-in-rawalpindi-713557">In 'extremely rare' case, Pakistani woman gives birth to 6 babies within an hour in Rawalpindi</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/21/426501-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-04-21t152207617.jpg?imwidth=400" />

In a rare&nbsp;incident, a 27-year-old woman from Pakistan delivered six babies in an hour at&nbsp;a hospital in Rawalpindi. As reported by Dawn, Zeenat Waheed welcomed the sextuplets – four boys and two girls – within a span of one hour on April 19.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uber-app-bans-woman-with-name-swastika-chandra-says-your-first-name-is-713601">Uber app bans woman with name Swastika Chandra, says your first name is ...</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/11/379028-untitled-design-2023-09-11t182559824.png?imwidth=400" />

Uber banned a woman with name 'Swastika Chandra' from its services due to her first name, deeming it "potentially offensive."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/russia-warns-pakistani-rice-ban-over-violation-in-phytosanitary-requirements-713618">Russia warns Pakistani rice ban over violation in phytosanitary requirements</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/30/376245-untitled-design-2023-08-29t235935268.png?imwidth=400" />

Russia implemented a ban on the importation of Pakistani rice in May 2019 following the discovery of the Khapra beetle (Trogoderma granarium) in a shipment of rice originating from Pakistan. The ban was lifted after a gap of two long years, however, Pakistan is again facing a similar kind of warning from Russia indicating a potential ban on rice imports in the near future.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sunita-kejriwal-accuses-bjp-of-making-attempts-to-kill-delhi-cm-his-food-is-being-monitored-713630">Sunita Kejriwal accuses BJP of making attempts to 'kill' Delhi CM; 'his food is being monitored'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/21/426539-succession-2024-04-21t201008719.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Sunita Kejriwal, wife of jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday (Apr 21) levelled strong allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre stating that the government is constantly monitoring the food consumed by her husband.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-murder-alleged-accuseds-father-apologises-to-victims-family-demands-strict-punishment-for-son-713602">Karnataka murder: Accused’s father apologises to victim’s family, demands strict punishment for son</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/21/426522-succession-2024-04-21t181834260.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Following the recent killing of Niranjan Hiremath, the accused's father on Saturday (Apr 20) demanded maximum punishment for his son Fayaz Khondunaik and apologised to the victim's family.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-amitabh-bachchan-looks-fierce-as-ashwatthama-in-new-teaser-of-kalki-2898-ad-watch-713631">Amitabh Bachchan looks fierce as Ashwatthama in new teaser of Kalki 2898 AD</a>
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New update alert! Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, also known as Big B, will be playing the mystical character of Ashwatthama in Nag Ashwin’s epic sci-fi dystopian film&nbsp;Kalki 2898 AD. The film also&nbsp;features Prabhas, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone and Disha Patani in pivotal roles.

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The Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei expressed appreciation towards the country's armed forces for their recent attack on Israel and asked them to study the tactics of their adversaries.

The Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei expressed appreciation towards the country's armed forces for their recent attack on Israel and asked them to study the tactics of their adversaries. In Maldives, parliamentary election voting is over and counting is underway, with results soon to be out. As per a report, counting is completed in 203 seats, with Muizzu's PNC bagged 59 seats. In other world news, the family of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali student who was abducted by Hamas in Gaza, is now appealing to the international community for his release. ‘Learn enemy tactics’: Khamenei thanks Iranian forces for attacking Israel Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei on Sunday (Apr 21) expressed gratitude towards the country’s armed forces for attacking Israel. He also urged the Iranian forces to "ceaselessly pursue military innovation and learn the enemy's tactics," reported Iran’s official news agency. Maldives votes in election key to its India, China relations Voting for the parliamentary elections in Maldives began on Sunday (Apr 21). The elections are crucial for President Mohamed Muizzu, whose policies are being keenly watched by India and China. Both countries are seeking a foothold in the Maldives, which has a strategic location in the Indian Ocean. Muizzu's election as president last year has sharpened the rivalry between New Delhi and Beijing. Kin of Nepali student held captive by Hamas turn to international community The family of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali student who was taken hostage by Hamas in Gaza, is now pleading international community for his release. The family arrived from over 500 km to the capital Kathmandu, to raise voice for their son. Nimisha Priya: Kerala nurse's mom in Yemen to rescue her from death penalty On Saturday night (Apr 20), Nimisha Priya's mother, Premakumari, and Samuel Jerome, the chairman of the 'Save Nimisha' Action Council and a human rights activist, arrived at Yemen's international airport. Their purpose is to visit Nimisha Priya, who is currently detained in a Yemeni prison. In 'extremely rare' case, Pakistani woman gives birth to 6 babies within an hour in Rawalpindi In a rare incident, a 27-year-old woman from Pakistan delivered six babies in an hour at a hospital in Rawalpindi. As reported by Dawn, Zeenat Waheed welcomed the sextuplets – four boys and two girls – within a span of one hour on April 19. Uber app bans woman with name Swastika Chandra, says your first name is ... Uber banned a woman with name 'Swastika Chandra' from its services due to her first name, deeming it "potentially offensive." Russia warns Pakistani rice ban over violation in phytosanitary requirements Russia implemented a ban on the importation of Pakistani rice in May 2019 following the discovery of the Khapra beetle (Trogoderma granarium) in a shipment of rice originating from Pakistan. The ban was lifted after a gap of two long years, however, Pakistan is again facing a similar kind of warning from Russia indicating a potential ban on rice imports in the near future. Sunita Kejriwal accuses BJP of making attempts to 'kill' Delhi CM; 'his food is being monitored' Sunita Kejriwal, wife of jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday (Apr 21) levelled strong allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre stating that the government is constantly monitoring the food consumed by her husband. Karnataka murder: Accused’s father apologises to victim’s family, demands strict punishment for son Following the recent killing of Niranjan Hiremath, the accused's father on Saturday (Apr 20) demanded maximum punishment for his son Fayaz Khondunaik and apologised to the victim's family. Amitabh Bachchan looks fierce as Ashwatthama in new teaser of Kalki 2898 AD New update alert! Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, also known as Big B, will be playing the mystical character of Ashwatthama in Nag Ashwin’s epic sci-fi dystopian film Kalki 2898 AD. The film also features Prabhas, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone and Disha Patani in pivotal roles.

Top 10 world news: Khamenei thanks Iranian forces for attacking Israel; Maldives elections, & more

Last weekend, The Capitals reported in detail about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-tehrans-retaliation-for-damascus-strike-bjps-vishwa-bandhu-pitch-for-new-delhi-and-more-711277">Tehran's retaliation for Damascus strike</a>&nbsp;— when Tehran launched an&nbsp;unprecedented attack on Israel a week after&nbsp;a senior Iranian military official and eight others were killed in a strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus. Iran blamed Israel for the attack and reasoned last weekend's attack as retaliation for Israel's alleged attack in the embassy.

Also watch |&nbsp;Iran-Israel Tensions: Iran foreign minister plays down apparent Israeli strike

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During early hours of Friday, Iranian state media reported a&nbsp;small number of explosions, which they said resulted from air defences hitting three drones over Isfahan in central Iran. They referred to the incident as an attack by "infiltrators", rather than by Israel, obviating the need for retaliation.

Read more in The Capitals this week:

<h2>Male, Maldives</h2>

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Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu | Reuters

In a major boost to Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu's standing in the archipelago nation's corridors of power in Male, his&nbsp;People's National Congress (PNC) won about two-thirds majority in the country's parliament. Previously,&nbsp;former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's&nbsp;Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) was in control of the parliament and Muizzu's ruling alliance&nbsp;did not have a parliamentary majority.&nbsp;

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Maldives' Parliament elections. Initial figures (final numbers by tomm morning) 
 
(Muizzu's party) PNC: 66 
MDP: 11 
Independent: 6 
MDA: 2 
JP, AP, MNP: 1 <a href="https://t.co/U95RIWpYjr">https://t.co/U95RIWpYjr</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1782082337259323767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Quito, Ecuador</h2>

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Ecuadorans on Sunday (April 21) voted in a referendum on proposed tougher measures to fight gang-related crime. The once-peaceful South American country has been facing&nbsp;an unprecedented rise in violence that has seen two mayors being killed this week.

The streak of terrorism has been blamed on gangs with links to transnational cartels using its ports to ship drugs to the United States and Europe.

The results of the referendum "will define the course and the state policy that we will take in order to face the challenge of fighting against violence and organized crime," President Daniel Noboa said as voting began at the Electoral Council in Quito.

<h2>Manila, Philippines</h2>

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Manila scored a strategic homerun amid growing tensions in the West Philippine Sea&nbsp;— which China has popularised as South China Sea&nbsp;— after India&nbsp;delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to Philippines earlier this week.

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BrahMos supersonic cruise Missiles delivered to the Philippines by India today. The two countries had signed a deal worth USD 375 million in 2022. <a href="https://t.co/aoBtjjYUJr">pic.twitter.com/aoBtjjYUJr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1781233745615556773?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The delivery is part of&nbsp;a $375-million deal between New Delhi and Manila for three batteries of shore-based, anti-ship variant of the BrahMos.

Philippines is acquiring the systems under the Horizon 2 of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Programme.

<h2>Beijing, China</h2>

<img alt="Chinese runner He Jie, Ethiopian Dejene Hailu Bikila and Kenyans Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat at the finish line of the Beijing Half Marathon on April 14, 2024 | Reuters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="783f33bb-45b3-4cbc-937d-7458fa4b2237" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China_8.png" />

Chinese runner He Jie, Ethiopian Dejene Hailu Bikila and Kenyans Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat at the finish line of the Beijing Half Marathon on April 14, 2024 | Reuters

In a stunning show of crisis of sportspersonship, the top four&nbsp;finishers of the Beijing Half Marathon were stripped of their medals after an investigation found three African runners deliberately slowed down near the finish line to let a Chinese competitor win.

China’s He Jie crossed the finish line of last Sunday’s race in 1:03:44 to claim the gold medal and a $5,500 first prize, with the African trio just one second behind in joint-second place.

A video clip of the finish showed Kenya’s Willy Mnangat turning toward He and gesturing for him to move ahead as the four men run neck and neck.

Former 5km world record holder Robert Keter, also from Kenya, then appears to wave at He to overtake the pack while signalling for his compatriot and Ethiopia’s Dejene Hailu to hang back.

Last weekend, The Capitals reported in detail about Tehran's retaliation for Damascus strike — when Tehran launched an unprecedented attack on Israel a week after a senior Iranian military official and eight others were killed in a strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus.

Last weekend, The Capitals reported in detail about Tehran's retaliation for Damascus strike — when Tehran launched an unprecedented attack on Israel a week after a senior Iranian military official and eight others were killed in a strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus. Iran blamed Israel for the attack and reasoned last weekend's attack as retaliation for Israel's alleged attack in the embassy. Also watch | Iran-Israel Tensions: Iran foreign minister plays down apparent Israeli strike × During early hours of Friday, Iranian state media reported a small number of explosions, which they said resulted from air defences hitting three drones over Isfahan in central Iran. They referred to the incident as an attack by "infiltrators", rather than by Israel, obviating the need for retaliation. Read more in The Capitals this week: Male, Maldives Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu | Reuters In a major boost to Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu's standing in the archipelago nation's corridors of power in Male, his People's National Congress (PNC) won about two-thirds majority in the country's parliament. Previously, former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) was in control of the parliament and Muizzu's ruling alliance did not have a parliamentary majority. Maldives' Parliament elections. Initial figures (final numbers by tomm morning) (Muizzu's party) PNC: 66 MDP: 11 Independent: 6 MDA: 2 JP, AP, MNP: 1 https://t.co/U95RIWpYjr — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) April 21, 2024 × Quito, Ecuador Ecuadorans on Sunday (April 21) voted in a referendum on proposed tougher measures to fight gang-related crime. The once-peaceful South American country has been facing an unprecedented rise in violence that has seen two mayors being killed this week. The streak of terrorism has been blamed on gangs with links to transnational cartels using its ports to ship drugs to the United States and Europe. The results of the referendum "will define the course and the state policy that we will take in order to face the challenge of fighting against violence and organized crime," President Daniel Noboa said as voting began at the Electoral Council in Quito. Manila, Philippines Manila scored a strategic homerun amid growing tensions in the West Philippine Sea — which China has popularised as South China Sea — after India delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to Philippines earlier this week. BrahMos supersonic cruise Missiles delivered to the Philippines by India today. The two countries had signed a deal worth USD 375 million in 2022. pic.twitter.com/aoBtjjYUJr — ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2024 × The delivery is part of a $375-million deal between New Delhi and Manila for three batteries of shore-based, anti-ship variant of the BrahMos. Philippines is acquiring the systems under the Horizon 2 of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Programme. Beijing, China Chinese runner He Jie, Ethiopian Dejene Hailu Bikila and Kenyans Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat at the finish line of the Beijing Half Marathon on April 14, 2024 | Reuters In a stunning show of crisis of sportspersonship, the top four finishers of the Beijing Half Marathon were stripped of their medals after an investigation found three African runners deliberately slowed down near the finish line to let a Chinese competitor win. China’s He Jie crossed the finish line of last Sunday’s race in 1:03:44 to claim the gold medal and a $5,500 first prize, with the African trio just one second behind in joint-second place. A video clip of the finish showed Kenya’s Willy Mnangat turning toward He and gesturing for him to move ahead as the four men run neck and neck. Former 5km world record holder Robert Keter, also from Kenya, then appears to wave at He to overtake the pack while signalling for his compatriot and Ethiopia’s Dejene Hailu to hang back.

The Capitals: Muizzu’s grip deepens in Maldives; Manila scores strategic homerun with Brahmos

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Sunday (Apr 21) released a statement condemning the approval of billions of dollars in military aid to Israel stating that this would give Tel Aviv a "licence" for the Gaza "aggression".

"This support, which violates international law, is a licence and a green light for the Zionist extremist government (Israel) to continue the brutal aggression against our people," Hamas said in a statement.

"We consider this step a confirmation of the official American complicity and partnership in the war of extermination waged by the fascist occupation army against our Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip."

The US House on Saturday (Apr 20) approved a $13 billion military aid package for Israel amid its ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.

Following the significant development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the "much-appreciated aid bill" exhibits support for Israel and "defends Western civilisation".

The US bill said that more than $9 billion will also be dedicated to address "the dire need for humanitarian assistance for Gaza as well as other vulnerable populations around the world". &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-aid-for-ukraine-will-kill-even-more-ukrainians-warns-kremlin-713449">US aid for Ukraine 'will kill even more Ukrainians', warns Kremlin</a>

<h2>Turkey's Erdogan meets Hamas leader</h2>

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (Apr 20) called on the Palestinians to unite amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip after his meeting with the Hamas chief in Istanbul.

As per the Turkish media reports, the talks between the Turkish President and the Hamas chief lasted for about more than two and a half hours.

"It is vital that Palestinians act with unity in this process. The strongest response to Israel and the path to victory lie in unity and integrity," Erdogan said according to a Turkish presidency statement.

<h2>Turkish President slams Netanyahu</h2>

Earlier, on Tuesday (Apr 16), Erdogan hit out at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli leadership condemning them for the escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

"Israel violating international law and the Vienna Convention by targeting the Iranian Embassy in Damascus was the straw that broke the camel's back," Erdogan said during a press conference after a cabinet meeting in Ankara.

He also launched a scathing attack on Netanyahu stating that he was solely responsible for the lives lost during the war and that he was endangering his own countrymen and people in the region.

"Netanyahu is endangering the lives of both his own citizens and all the people of the region to extend his political life. This is an indisputable fact: the one responsible for the tension that made our hearts skip a beat on the night of April 13 is Netanyahu and his government, which is seeing red," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Sunday (Apr 21) released a statement condemning the approval of billions of dollars in military aid to Israel stating that this would give Tel Aviv a "licence" for the Gaza "aggression".

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Sunday (Apr 21) released a statement condemning the approval of billions of dollars in military aid to Israel stating that this would give Tel Aviv a "licence" for the Gaza "aggression". "This support, which violates international law, is a licence and a green light for the Zionist extremist government (Israel) to continue the brutal aggression against our people," Hamas said in a statement. "We consider this step a confirmation of the official American complicity and partnership in the war of extermination waged by the fascist occupation army against our Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip." The US House on Saturday (Apr 20) approved a $13 billion military aid package for Israel amid its ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. Following the significant development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the "much-appreciated aid bill" exhibits support for Israel and "defends Western civilisation". The US bill said that more than $9 billion will also be dedicated to address "the dire need for humanitarian assistance for Gaza as well as other vulnerable populations around the world". Also read: US aid for Ukraine 'will kill even more Ukrainians', warns Kremlin Turkey's Erdogan meets Hamas leader Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (Apr 20) called on the Palestinians to unite amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip after his meeting with the Hamas chief in Istanbul. As per the Turkish media reports, the talks between the Turkish President and the Hamas chief lasted for about more than two and a half hours. "It is vital that Palestinians act with unity in this process. The strongest response to Israel and the path to victory lie in unity and integrity," Erdogan said according to a Turkish presidency statement. Turkish President slams Netanyahu Earlier, on Tuesday (Apr 16), Erdogan hit out at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli leadership condemning them for the escalation of tensions in the Middle East. "Israel violating international law and the Vienna Convention by targeting the Iranian Embassy in Damascus was the straw that broke the camel's back," Erdogan said during a press conference after a cabinet meeting in Ankara. He also launched a scathing attack on Netanyahu stating that he was solely responsible for the lives lost during the war and that he was endangering his own countrymen and people in the region. "Netanyahu is endangering the lives of both his own citizens and all the people of the region to extend his political life. This is an indisputable fact: the one responsible for the tension that made our hearts skip a beat on the night of April 13 is Netanyahu and his government, which is seeing red," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas chief condemns US military aid to Israel as ‘green light for Gaza aggression’

At least two kids were killed and more than a dozen injured after a suspected drunk driver drove a vehicle through a building where a birthday party was being celebrated. The incident took place in Monroe County at 3 pm local time on Saturday (Apr 20). Monroe County Sheriff’s Office said the party was for a young child. The car entered the building and stopped after moving 25 feet inside.

Nine of the victims were rushed to local hospitals in critical condition, including six adults and three kids. Also, 15 of the victims were given first-aid on the spot.

Police said two siblings, an 8-year-old girl and a 5-year-old boy, were pronounced dead as they succumbed to injuries.

The driver, a 66-year-old woman, has not been identified. Media reports said she was likely to face criminal charges.

“She was cooperating with authorities. Authorities were notified that the woman may have been at a nearby tavern before the incident,” Sheriff Goodnough was quoted as saying.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-biden-sunle-azadi-slogans-raised-in-columbia-university-by-pro-palestine-protestors-713552">Also read:&nbsp;Watch: ‘Biden sun le, Azadi’ slogans raised in Columbia University by pro-Palestine protesters</a>

"The scene was described by the first responders as extremely chaotic, with high level of emotions of those directly involved and those who witnessed this horrific incident," he added.

In a Facebook post, Swan Boat Club, where the party was being held, announced that it was temporarily shuttering because of the incident.

Watch:&nbsp;WION Rewind 2023: Superpower politics between US and China

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"In light of the emergency please do not try to come to Swan Boat Club at the moment so emergency vehicles can get through," the boat club said in a post. "At this time, the club is closed until further notice."

"Please keep everyone involved in your thoughts and prayers. We thank everyone for their concern and prayers," the club added.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least two kids were killed and more than a dozen injured after a suspected drunk driver drove a vehicle through a building where a birthday party was being celebrated.

At least two kids were killed and more than a dozen injured after a suspected drunk driver drove a vehicle through a building where a birthday party was being celebrated. The incident took place in Monroe County at 3 pm local time on Saturday (Apr 20). Monroe County Sheriff’s Office said the party was for a young child. The car entered the building and stopped after moving 25 feet inside. Nine of the victims were rushed to local hospitals in critical condition, including six adults and three kids. Also, 15 of the victims were given first-aid on the spot. Police said two siblings, an 8-year-old girl and a 5-year-old boy, were pronounced dead as they succumbed to injuries. The driver, a 66-year-old woman, has not been identified. Media reports said she was likely to face criminal charges. “She was cooperating with authorities. Authorities were notified that the woman may have been at a nearby tavern before the incident,” Sheriff Goodnough was quoted as saying. Also read: Watch: ‘Biden sun le, Azadi’ slogans raised in Columbia University by pro-Palestine protesters "The scene was described by the first responders as extremely chaotic, with high level of emotions of those directly involved and those who witnessed this horrific incident," he added. In a Facebook post, Swan Boat Club, where the party was being held, announced that it was temporarily shuttering because of the incident. Watch: WION Rewind 2023: Superpower politics between US and China × "In light of the emergency please do not try to come to Swan Boat Club at the moment so emergency vehicles can get through," the boat club said in a post. "At this time, the club is closed until further notice." "Please keep everyone involved in your thoughts and prayers. We thank everyone for their concern and prayers," the club added. (With inputs from agencies)

Two kids dead, 15 injured after drunk woman drives car through birthday party in US

And today is Earth Day observed on the 22nd of April each year. This day highlights the importance of protecting the environment. Watch to know more!

World marks 54th earth day: Planet vs Plastic

The people of Ecuador have approved series of security measures including extradition for the drug traffickers in a referendum on Sunday (April 21). But the Ecuadoreans also simultaneously rejected investor-friendly economic reforms, in a partial victory to President Daniel Noboa.&nbsp;

A total of nine points of interest on action against cocaine cartels were out for referendum on Sunday — which passed the test easily.&nbsp;<img alt="Ecuador" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ecuador.png" />

But voters rejected by large margins proposals to liberalise the labour market and allow international arbitration for foreign investors in the country.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

The referendum was the first hard test of Noboa's popularity since he took office in November. Having given a stamp of approval for his anti-gang policies, key for his potential re-election next year, the referendum's results are expected to strengthen his grip on the capital Quito's corridors of power.

But simultaneously, the rejection of his proposed economic measures weaken his mandate to implement painful reforms to make way for a new deal with&nbsp;the International Monetary Fund.

Also watch | Why is there unrest in Ecuador? - WION Web Originals News

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The referendum shows that Noboa is still the frontrunner in next year’s election.

Noboa, 36, saw his approval ratings rise when he declared a state of emergency. Noboa then instructed the army to be on the streets to fight the organised crime gangs. The gang violence in Ecuador has made the once-peaceful nation more violent than Mexico and Columbia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-suspends-relations-with-ecuador-after-arrest-of-ex-vp-708337">Mexico suspends relations with Ecuador after arrest of ex-VP</a>

Almost 40,000 troops were deployed to provide security at polling stations. But mayors of two mining towns in southwest Ecuador were assassinated within hours of each other just days before the voting.

Noboa has&nbsp;raised taxes despite having promised to cut them, and failed to fulfill a pledge to fix rolling electricity blackouts.

Noboa, the US-educated son of wealthy banana exporters, won last year’s presidential election, but only to serve out the term of Guillermo Lasso which ends next year. The country holds another general election on Feb 9 next year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-says-diplomatic-staff-leave-ecuador-as-latin-american-nations-un-chief-condemn-embassy-raid-708773">Mexico`s diplomatic staff leave Ecuador as Latin American nations, UN chief condemn embassy raid</a>

The referendum took place amid an international crisis when Noboa sent police into Mexico's embassy&nbsp;to arrest a former vice president convicted of corruption.

Ecuador’s violation of diplomatic protocols caused widespread international condemnation but the residents rallied behind the government.

(With inputs from agencies)

The people of Ecuador have approved series of security measures including extradition for the drug traffickers in a referendum on Sunday (April 21). But the Ecuadoreans also simultaneously rejected investor-friendly economic reforms, in a partial victory to President Daniel Noboa.

The people of Ecuador have approved series of security measures including extradition for the drug traffickers in a referendum on Sunday (April 21). But the Ecuadoreans also simultaneously rejected investor-friendly economic reforms, in a partial victory to President Daniel Noboa. A total of nine points of interest on action against cocaine cartels were out for referendum on Sunday — which passed the test easily. But voters rejected by large margins proposals to liberalise the labour market and allow international arbitration for foreign investors in the country. What does it mean? The referendum was the first hard test of Noboa's popularity since he took office in November. Having given a stamp of approval for his anti-gang policies, key for his potential re-election next year, the referendum's results are expected to strengthen his grip on the capital Quito's corridors of power. But simultaneously, the rejection of his proposed economic measures weaken his mandate to implement painful reforms to make way for a new deal with the International Monetary Fund. Also watch | Why is there unrest in Ecuador? - WION Web Originals News × The referendum shows that Noboa is still the frontrunner in next year’s election. Noboa, 36, saw his approval ratings rise when he declared a state of emergency. Noboa then instructed the army to be on the streets to fight the organised crime gangs. The gang violence in Ecuador has made the once-peaceful nation more violent than Mexico and Columbia. Also read | Mexico suspends relations with Ecuador after arrest of ex-VP Almost 40,000 troops were deployed to provide security at polling stations. But mayors of two mining towns in southwest Ecuador were assassinated within hours of each other just days before the voting. Noboa has raised taxes despite having promised to cut them, and failed to fulfill a pledge to fix rolling electricity blackouts. Noboa, the US-educated son of wealthy banana exporters, won last year’s presidential election, but only to serve out the term of Guillermo Lasso which ends next year. The country holds another general election on Feb 9 next year. Also read | Mexico`s diplomatic staff leave Ecuador as Latin American nations, UN chief condemn embassy raid The referendum took place amid an international crisis when Noboa sent police into Mexico's embassy to arrest a former vice president convicted of corruption. Ecuador’s violation of diplomatic protocols caused widespread international condemnation but the residents rallied behind the government. (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador referendum says yes to anti-mafia measures, no to economic reforms

In former US president Donald Trump’s hush money trial, prosecutors in their opening statement Monday (Apr 22) said he indeed engaged in a “criminal” scheme and subsequent cover-up.

“This case is about a criminal conspiracy and a coverup,” prosecutor Matthew Colangelo told jurors in a Manhattan court in attendance of the former president.

Earlier, Trump arrived at the New York courthouse where prosecutors explained why the alleged hush money payment to a porn star ahead of the 2016 presidential elections amounted to a crime and warranted charges.

As per allegations, Trump made payments to porn star&nbsp;Stormy Daniels through his then-attorney Michael Cohen.&nbsp;

Prosecutors said&nbsp;Cohen made the payment "at the defendant's direction, and did it to influence the election."

An attorney from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office said the reimbursements were part of a scheme that amounted to "election fraud, pure and simple."

<h2>David Pecker called as first witness</h2>

Prosecutors&nbsp;also called David Pecker, the former CEO of American Media Inc., or AMI, the parent company of the National Enquirer, as their first witness to the stand.&nbsp;Pecker is facing allegations that he helped&nbsp;Trump during the 2016 campaign by burying negative stories about him and attacking his rivals.

Watch:&nbsp;US: Opening statements set to begin in Donald Trump's hush money case trial

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Pecker. while being in the stand, flashed a broad smile at the court, defying the gravity of the moment.&nbsp;

Pecker would return for the testimony tomorrow.

<h2>The defence's statement</h2>

Trump's attorney Todd Blanche delivered the defence's opening statement, saying the jury is "going to learn that this was not a payback."

Blanche added that the money paid to&nbsp;Cohen was for&nbsp;his services as Trump's personal attorney, not as reimbursement for the Daniels payment.&nbsp;

"There's nothing wrong with trying to influence an election. It's called democracy. They've put something sinister on this idea, as if it was a crime," Blanche continued. "President Trump fought back like he always does, and like he's entitled to do. To protect his family, his reputation and his brand. And that is not a crime."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwie7qqsqtaFAxU7XmwGHXvHBYoQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/juror-excused-from-trump-hush-money-trial-due-to-fear-of-influence-what-you-need-to-know-712675" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/juror-excused-from-trump-hush-money-trial-due-to-fear-of-influence-what-you-need-to-know-712675&amp;ved=2ahUKEwie7qqsqtaFAxU7XmwGHXvHBYoQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Juror excused from Trump hush money trial due to fear of influence: What you need to know</a>

Blanche then trained his&nbsp;guns on Cohen, saying he was&nbsp;"obsessed" with Trump and had been for "many, many years." He also claimed that the former attorney tried to throw Trump under the bus when he faced federal charges.

He argued that Cohen decided "to blame President Trump for all of his problems" when he was arrested on federal charges in 2018.

"I submit to you that he cannot be trusted," the defence stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

In former US president Donald Trump’s hush money trial, prosecutors in their opening statement Monday (Apr 22) said he indeed engaged in a “criminal” scheme and subsequent cover-up.

In former US president Donald Trump’s hush money trial, prosecutors in their opening statement Monday (Apr 22) said he indeed engaged in a “criminal” scheme and subsequent cover-up. “This case is about a criminal conspiracy and a coverup,” prosecutor Matthew Colangelo told jurors in a Manhattan court in attendance of the former president. Earlier, Trump arrived at the New York courthouse where prosecutors explained why the alleged hush money payment to a porn star ahead of the 2016 presidential elections amounted to a crime and warranted charges. As per allegations, Trump made payments to porn star Stormy Daniels through his then-attorney Michael Cohen. Prosecutors said Cohen made the payment "at the defendant's direction, and did it to influence the election." An attorney from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office said the reimbursements were part of a scheme that amounted to "election fraud, pure and simple." David Pecker called as first witness Prosecutors also called David Pecker, the former CEO of American Media Inc., or AMI, the parent company of the National Enquirer, as their first witness to the stand. Pecker is facing allegations that he helped Trump during the 2016 campaign by burying negative stories about him and attacking his rivals. Watch: US: Opening statements set to begin in Donald Trump's hush money case trial × Pecker. while being in the stand, flashed a broad smile at the court, defying the gravity of the moment. Pecker would return for the testimony tomorrow. The defence's statement Trump's attorney Todd Blanche delivered the defence's opening statement, saying the jury is "going to learn that this was not a payback." Blanche added that the money paid to Cohen was for his services as Trump's personal attorney, not as reimbursement for the Daniels payment. "There's nothing wrong with trying to influence an election. It's called democracy. They've put something sinister on this idea, as if it was a crime," Blanche continued. "President Trump fought back like he always does, and like he's entitled to do. To protect his family, his reputation and his brand. And that is not a crime." Also read: Juror excused from Trump hush money trial due to fear of influence: What you need to know Blanche then trained his guns on Cohen, saying he was "obsessed" with Trump and had been for "many, many years." He also claimed that the former attorney tried to throw Trump under the bus when he faced federal charges. He argued that Cohen decided "to blame President Trump for all of his problems" when he was arrested on federal charges in 2018. "I submit to you that he cannot be trusted," the defence stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Hush money trial: Prosecutors say Trump engaged in ‘criminal’ scheme, subsequent cover-up

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi wants to keep strict rules on women for hijab (headscarf) offences despite fierce protests in the country. According to a report by the German news agency dpa on Sunday (Apr 21), President Raisi said that respecting the hijab was not only a religious but also a political and legal obligation for Iranian women.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi wants to keep strict rules on women for hijab (headscarf) offences despite fierce protests in the country. According to a report by the German news agency dpa on Sunday (Apr 21), President Raisi said that respecting the hijab was not only a religious but also a political and legal obligation for Iranian women. Raisi added that there was no doubt whatsoever that checks must continue to be carried out consistently. The president's remarks came more than a month after police and moral guardians in Iran once again stepped up a crackdown on headscarf violations. Also read | Iran escalates hijab crackdown, victims speak out against morality police abuse Videos on social media showed clashes between women and moral guards during some checks. Amini's death sparked nationwide protests The death of Iranian Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini in police custody in September 2022 sparked nationwide protests against the Islamic regime and its dress code. Amini was detained by the moral police because of an allegedly ill-fitting headscarf. A few days later, she died at the police station, allegedly as a result of police violence. Also watch | The West Asia Post: Hijab or economy? Iranians make the choice × Since her death, more and more Iranian women have ignored the mandatory headscarf rule, and hundreds have died in the protests. Women subjected to 'draconian' surveillance on hijab rules Last month, Amnesty International said that Iran was subjecting women to draconian surveillance on the hijab rules. In a report based on testimony from over 40 women inside Iran, Amnesty said that women were being targeted with "widespread surveillance" in public spaces and "mass police checks" targeting women drivers. "In a sinister attempt to wear down resistance to compulsory veiling... Iran's authorities are terrorising women and girls by subjecting them to constant surveillance and policing," said Diana Eltahawy, Amnesty's deputy director for the Middle East and North Africa. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi wants to keep strict hijab rules despite fierce protests

In a miraculous event, the doctors delivered a baby girl from the womb of a Palestinian woman&nbsp;who was killed along with her daughter and husband, in an attack by Israel on the Gaza city of Rafah, in which 19 people died during intensified strikes, as per the Palestinian health officials.

The officials said that nearly 13 children from one family died after two houses were hit in the strike, the officials said.

According to doctor Mohammed Salama, who was looking after the newborn, the baby weighed 1.4 kg and was delivered by doctors in an emergency C-section. He added she was stable and was gradually improving.

The baby's mother Sabreen Al-Sakani was 30 weeks pregnant when she was killed in the strike.

The doctors placed the baby in an incubator at the Rafah hospital and put a&nbsp;tape on her chest with the words, "The baby of the martyr Sabreen Al-Sakani".

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-22-killed-mostly-children-in-strikes-on-southern-gaza-as-us-prepares-aid-package-713678">&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: 22 killed, mostly children, in strikes on southern Gaza as US prepares aid package</a>

According to her uncle Rami Al-Sheikh, Sakani's young daughter Malak wished to name her new sister Rouh, which meant spirit in Arabic language.

"The little girl Malak was happy that her sister was coming to the world," Al-Sheikh said.

<h2>Baby to remain in hospital for three to four weeks</h2>

Doctor Salama said that the baby will remain in the hospital for three to four weeks. "After that, we will see about her leaving, and where this child will go, to the family, to the aunt or uncle or grandparents. Here is the biggest tragedy. Even if this child survives, she was born an orphan," said the doctor.

As per Palestinian health officials, 13 children died in a strike on the second home which was of the Abdel Aal family. In that strike, two women also died.

An Israeli military spokesperson, speaking to Reuters, said that different militant targets were hit in Gaza which included military compounds, launch posts and armed people.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel hits out at US plans to sanction IDF unit Netzah Yehuda

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Meanwhile, another Gaza resident, Mohammad al-Behairi said his daughter and grandchild are trapped under the rubble. "It's a feeling of sadness, depression, we have nothing left in this life to cry for, what feeling shall we have? When you lose your children, when you lose the closest of your loved ones, how will your feeling be?" al-Behairi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a miraculous event, the doctors delivered a baby girl from the womb of a Palestinian woman who was killed along with her daughter and husband, in an attack by Israel on the Gaza city of Rafah, in which 19 people died during intensified strikes, as per the Palestinian health officials.

In a miraculous event, the doctors delivered a baby girl from the womb of a Palestinian woman who was killed along with her daughter and husband, in an attack by Israel on the Gaza city of Rafah, in which 19 people died during intensified strikes, as per the Palestinian health officials. The officials said that nearly 13 children from one family died after two houses were hit in the strike, the officials said. According to doctor Mohammed Salama, who was looking after the newborn, the baby weighed 1.4 kg and was delivered by doctors in an emergency C-section. He added she was stable and was gradually improving. The baby's mother Sabreen Al-Sakani was 30 weeks pregnant when she was killed in the strike. The doctors placed the baby in an incubator at the Rafah hospital and put a tape on her chest with the words, "The baby of the martyr Sabreen Al-Sakani". Also Read: Israel-Hamas war: 22 killed, mostly children, in strikes on southern Gaza as US prepares aid package According to her uncle Rami Al-Sheikh, Sakani's young daughter Malak wished to name her new sister Rouh, which meant spirit in Arabic language. "The little girl Malak was happy that her sister was coming to the world," Al-Sheikh said. Baby to remain in hospital for three to four weeks Doctor Salama said that the baby will remain in the hospital for three to four weeks. "After that, we will see about her leaving, and where this child will go, to the family, to the aunt or uncle or grandparents. Here is the biggest tragedy. Even if this child survives, she was born an orphan," said the doctor. As per Palestinian health officials, 13 children died in a strike on the second home which was of the Abdel Aal family. In that strike, two women also died. An Israeli military spokesperson, speaking to Reuters, said that different militant targets were hit in Gaza which included military compounds, launch posts and armed people. Watch: Israel hits out at US plans to sanction IDF unit Netzah Yehuda Meanwhile, another Gaza resident, Mohammad al-Behairi said his daughter and grandchild are trapped under the rubble. "It's a feeling of sadness, depression, we have nothing left in this life to cry for, what feeling shall we have? When you lose your children, when you lose the closest of your loved ones, how will your feeling be?" al-Behairi said. (With inputs from agencies)

Miracle in doomed Gaza: Baby delivered alive from dead body of mother killed in attack

In the latest, prosecutors have accused former president Donald Trump of engaging in "criminal conspiracy and a coverup" as opening arguments began in the first-ever criminal trial of a former US president. In other news,&nbsp;Russia said it has captured the village of Novomykhailivka in eastern Ukraine. Separately,&nbsp;Indian President Droupadi Murmu awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan to many notable figures at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

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Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who has served three terms, is set to embark on a five-day trip to China on Monday for a personal visit, according to a media report. This visit, at the age of 74, marks&nbsp;Sharif's first international trip since his return to Pakistan in October last year, following a self-imposed exile in the UK lasting four years.

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In the latest, prosecutors have accused former president Donald Trump of engaging in "criminal conspiracy and a coverup" as opening arguments began in the first-ever criminal trial of a former US president.

In the latest, prosecutors have accused former president Donald Trump of engaging in "criminal conspiracy and a coverup" as opening arguments began in the first-ever criminal trial of a former US president. In other news, Russia said it has captured the village of Novomykhailivka in eastern Ukraine. Separately, Indian President Droupadi Murmu awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan to many notable figures at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi. Click on the headlines to read more. Hush money trial: Prosecutors say Trump engaged in ‘criminal’ scheme, subsequent cover-up In former US president Donald Trump’s hush money trial, prosecutors in their opening statement Monday (Apr 22) said he indeed engaged in a “criminal” scheme and subsequent cover-up. Russia captures key frontline village in eastern Ukraine as Zelensky pleads for urgent US aid Russia on Monday (Apr 22) said it has captured the village of Novomykhailivka in eastern Ukraine. The development comes as Ukrainian officials warn of a deteriorating situation on the frontlines in the coming weeks. Israeli missile was warning to Tehran, it evaded Iran’s radar systems: Report Israeli missiles apparently hit a site in Iran, US-based media reported late on Thursday (Apr 18), now details have emerged which revealed the type of missile used by Israel, the exact target, and also the possible intention. US Air Force conducts first-ever human vs AI aerial dogfight The US military carried out a major experiment, matching a piloted aircraft against an AI-controlled F-16. The AI-managed F-16D X-62A, also recognised as the Variable-stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft (VISTA), engaged in an aerial combat session last year. Ex-VP Venkaiah Naidu, Bindeshwar Pathak conferred Padma Vibhushan; here's the full list Indian President Droupadi Murmu awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan to former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and presented the Padma Bhushan to renowned figures like singer Usha Uthup and Bharatnatyam dancer Dr Padma Subrahmanyam at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi. on Monday (April 22). Driven by war and conflicts, global military spending rose to all-time high in 2023: SIPRI report Global military spending is at an all-time high, revealed a new report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) released on Monday (Apr 22). Deaths due to heat at all-time high; heatwaves in Europe linked to 30% increase in fatalities Europe, as per a recent report, is increasingly facing bouts of heat so intense that the human body is unable to cope, and subsequently, deaths related to heat have increased by 30 per cent in the last 20 years. Arvind Kejriwal health: Delhi Court rejects CM’s plea seeking personal medical consultation The Rouse Avenue Court on Monday (Apr 22) declined a plea moved by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seeking direction to Jail Authorities to administer insulin. Kejriwal had also asked for permission to allow him to consult his personal doctor through video conferencing daily for 15 minutes in presence of his wife Sunita with respect to his acute diabetes and fluctuating blood sugar level. Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to fly to China for medical checkup, report says Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who has served three terms, is set to embark on a five-day trip to China on Monday for a personal visit, according to a media report. This visit, at the age of 74, marks Sharif's first international trip since his return to Pakistan in October last year, following a self-imposed exile in the UK lasting four years. Indian Supreme Court allows 14-year-old rape survivor to abort 28-week pregnancy The Indian Supreme Court on Monday (Apr 22) allowed a 14-year-old rape survivor to abort her 28-week pregnancy, deeming the case as "exceptional".

Top 10 world news: Trump accused of 'criminal conspiracy'; Russia captures frontline village; and more

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Hours after the United States House passed a crucial aid deal worth $61bn for Ukraine amid a raging war with Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the country is readying soldiers for a potential Russian offensive.&nbsp;

Zelensky said that foreign aid "has to end up in tangible weapon systems," specifically, crucial long-range artillery.&nbsp;

The $61bn aid bill for Ukraine will now go to the Senate and President Biden for final signature.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-to-vote-on-95bn-foreign-aid-package-amid-republican-opposition-713410">US House votes in favour of $95bn aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan</a>

Zelensky told NBC News' Kristen Welker that to be&nbsp;fully prepared to fight back Russia's impending "full-scale" attack it was essential to&nbsp;receive those supplies before it happened.

"We are preparing. The personnel is preparing. The soldiers are engaged in training," he said in translated remarks during the "Meet the Press" interview.

Also watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;Did Russia try to assassinate Ukrainian President Zelensky?

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"And I don't want to repeat myself, but we are waiting for the weapon systems because we want to have the brigade fully equipped. Some of them are exhausted. We need to replace them. But these new brigades, they have to have the equipment."

Russia has cemented its position in the east of Ukraine with a limitless barrage of missiles and shells.

Earlier, in an interview with CBS News, Zelensky had claimed that Russia would begin another major offensive in June or even sooner. At the same time, he pressed for support from Ukraine's allies, including the United States, to help the country defend itself.&nbsp;

"And before that, we not only need to prepare, we not only need to stabilize the situation, because the partners are sometimes really happy that we have stabilised the situation," Zelensky said. "No, I say we need help now."

"I visited the region recently. I talked to the soldiers. The soldiers say that they lack equipment," Zelensky said on Sunday's "Meet the Press".

"They need to fight Russian reconnaissance drones, which essentially guide the artillery. And we need artillery shells. I hope we will be able to stay, and the weapons will come on time, and we will repel the enemy and then we'll break the plans of the Russian Federation with regards to this full-scale offensive."

(With inputs from agencies)

Hours after the United States House passed a crucial aid deal worth $61bn for Ukraine amid a raging war with Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the country is readying soldiers for a potential Russian offensive.

Hours after the United States House passed a crucial aid deal worth $61bn for Ukraine amid a raging war with Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the country is readying soldiers for a potential Russian offensive. Zelensky said that foreign aid "has to end up in tangible weapon systems," specifically, crucial long-range artillery. The $61bn aid bill for Ukraine will now go to the Senate and President Biden for final signature. Also read | US House votes in favour of $95bn aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan Zelensky told NBC News' Kristen Welker that to be fully prepared to fight back Russia's impending "full-scale" attack it was essential to receive those supplies before it happened. "We are preparing. The personnel is preparing. The soldiers are engaged in training," he said in translated remarks during the "Meet the Press" interview. Also watch | Did Russia try to assassinate Ukrainian President Zelensky? × "And I don't want to repeat myself, but we are waiting for the weapon systems because we want to have the brigade fully equipped. Some of them are exhausted. We need to replace them. But these new brigades, they have to have the equipment." Russia has cemented its position in the east of Ukraine with a limitless barrage of missiles and shells. Earlier, in an interview with CBS News, Zelensky had claimed that Russia would begin another major offensive in June or even sooner. At the same time, he pressed for support from Ukraine's allies, including the United States, to help the country defend itself. "And before that, we not only need to prepare, we not only need to stabilize the situation, because the partners are sometimes really happy that we have stabilised the situation," Zelensky said. "No, I say we need help now." "I visited the region recently. I talked to the soldiers. The soldiers say that they lack equipment," Zelensky said on Sunday's "Meet the Press". "They need to fight Russian reconnaissance drones, which essentially guide the artillery. And we need artillery shells. I hope we will be able to stay, and the weapons will come on time, and we will repel the enemy and then we'll break the plans of the Russian Federation with regards to this full-scale offensive." (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says Ukraine is preparing for potential summer offensive by Russia

Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi will arrive in Pakistan today on a three-day visit. This is Raisi's first visit abroad amid spiralling tensions with Israel and simmering tensions between Pakistan.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to visit Pakistan

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - Five rockets fired at U.S. military base in Syria - US to sanction IDF units - Iranian president's 3-day Pakistan visit

Five rockets fired at U.S. military base in Syria | US to sanction IDF units

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (April 21) warned of an “alarming surge of antisemitism” in a statement which was released over the approaching Jewish holiday of Passover while referring to the student protests at Columbia University.

“Silence is complicity. Even in recent days, we’ve seen harassment and calls for violence against Jews. This blatant Antisemitism is reprehensible and dangerous — and it has absolutely no place on college campuses, or anywhere in our country," read Biden’s statement.&nbsp;

The statement was released by the president to formally mark the religious holiday which starts on Monday (April 22).&nbsp;

“My commitment to the safety of the Jewish people, the security of Israel, and its right to exist as an independent Jewish state is ironclad,” Biden said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-biden-sunle-azadi-slogans-raised-in-columbia-university-by-pro-palestine-protestors-713552">‘Biden sun le, Azadi’ slogans raised in Columbia University by pro-Palestine protesters</a>

Biden's statement came hours after the White House issued another statement&nbsp;in which it criticised appeals for violence and “physical intimidation targeting Jewish students and the Jewish community” on Columbia’s campus.&nbsp;

<h2>Rabbi asks Jewish students to vacate campus</h2>

Earlier, Rabbi Elie Buechler appealed to all 300 Jewish students to exit the campus for their own safety as protests continued.

“What we are witnessing in and around campus is terrible and tragic. The events of the last few days, especially last night, have made it clear that Columbia University’s Public Safety and the (New York Police Department) cannot guarantee Jewish students’ safety in the face of extreme antisemitism and anarchy,"&nbsp;Buechler wrote in an online post.

“While every American has the right to peaceful protest, calls for violence and physical intimidation targeting Jewish students and the Jewish community are blatantly Antisemitic, unconscionable, and dangerous — they have absolutely no place on any college campus, or anywhere in the United States of America,” said White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates, in a statement.

The statement was released after a video appeared on social media over the weekend in which pro-Palestinian activists were seen telling Jewish students, “The 7th of October is going to be every day for you,” while referring to the&nbsp;Hamas-led attack on Israel.

“Echoing the rhetoric of terrorist organisations, especially in the wake of the worst massacre committed against the Jewish people since the Holocaust, is despicable. We condemn these statements in the strongest terms,” said Bates.

Watch:&nbsp;US President Biden gearing up to welcome Iraqi Prime Minister

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-biden-gearing-up-to-welcome-iraqi-prime-minister-711585/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Since last week, the campus of Columbia University has been marred by protests and the situation escalated when New York Police Department officers entered the campus and arrested more than 100 pro-Palestinian student protesters as thousands of others appealed for them to stop.

Columbia President Minouche Shafik authorised the police to arrest the students, stating that the move was “a decision that I hoped would never be necessary.”

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (April 21) warned of an “alarming surge of antisemitism” in a statement which was released over the approaching Jewish holiday of Passover while referring to the student protests at Columbia University.

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (April 21) warned of an “alarming surge of antisemitism” in a statement which was released over the approaching Jewish holiday of Passover while referring to the student protests at Columbia University. “Silence is complicity. Even in recent days, we’ve seen harassment and calls for violence against Jews. This blatant Antisemitism is reprehensible and dangerous — and it has absolutely no place on college campuses, or anywhere in our country," read Biden’s statement. The statement was released by the president to formally mark the religious holiday which starts on Monday (April 22). “My commitment to the safety of the Jewish people, the security of Israel, and its right to exist as an independent Jewish state is ironclad,” Biden said. Also Read: ‘Biden sun le, Azadi’ slogans raised in Columbia University by pro-Palestine protesters Biden's statement came hours after the White House issued another statement in which it criticised appeals for violence and “physical intimidation targeting Jewish students and the Jewish community” on Columbia’s campus. Rabbi asks Jewish students to vacate campus Earlier, Rabbi Elie Buechler appealed to all 300 Jewish students to exit the campus for their own safety as protests continued. “What we are witnessing in and around campus is terrible and tragic. The events of the last few days, especially last night, have made it clear that Columbia University’s Public Safety and the (New York Police Department) cannot guarantee Jewish students’ safety in the face of extreme antisemitism and anarchy," Buechler wrote in an online post. “While every American has the right to peaceful protest, calls for violence and physical intimidation targeting Jewish students and the Jewish community are blatantly Antisemitic, unconscionable, and dangerous — they have absolutely no place on any college campus, or anywhere in the United States of America,” said White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates, in a statement. The statement was released after a video appeared on social media over the weekend in which pro-Palestinian activists were seen telling Jewish students, “The 7th of October is going to be every day for you,” while referring to the Hamas-led attack on Israel. “Echoing the rhetoric of terrorist organisations, especially in the wake of the worst massacre committed against the Jewish people since the Holocaust, is despicable. We condemn these statements in the strongest terms,” said Bates. Watch: US President Biden gearing up to welcome Iraqi Prime Minister Since last week, the campus of Columbia University has been marred by protests and the situation escalated when New York Police Department officers entered the campus and arrested more than 100 pro-Palestinian student protesters as thousands of others appealed for them to stop. Columbia President Minouche Shafik authorised the police to arrest the students, stating that the move was “a decision that I hoped would never be necessary.” (With inputs from agencies)

Columbia row: Biden slams surge in antisemitism; rabbi asks Jewish students to exit campus

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