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US House passes $95 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel & Taiwan. All three bills to be combined into single amendment in Senate. Watch in for more details!

Israel war: US House greenlights $26.32 billion Israel aid

The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, will visit China from April 24th to 26th. According to the US State Department, he will hold talks on bilateral and global issues with Chinese officials. Watch in for more details!

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The Maldives is set to hold Parliamentary elections on April 21st and the polls have shaped up to be a crucial referendum on President Mohammad Muizzu tenure. Muizzu assumed charge in November last year and he and his policies are both facing a litmus test. Watch in for more details!

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Watch Headlines of the hour: - US house passes $95 billion aid bill - Kyiv praises, Moscow condemns aid move - Tel Aviv: Protests grow against Netanyahu - Israel to summon Pro-Palestine envoys

US house passes $95 billion aid bill | Kyiv praises, Moscow condemns aid move

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<p>The US House of Representatives on Saturday (Apr 20) passed legislation that would ban TikTok in the country if the platform's China-based owner ByteDance doesn’t sell its stake within a year. A report by the news agency Associated Press said that the decision by House Republicans to include TikTok as part of a larger foreign aid package fast-tracked the ban after an earlier version had stalled in the Senate.</p>

<p>A standalone bill with a shorter deadline passed the House in March by an overwhelming bipartisan vote as both Democrats and Republicans voiced national security concerns about ByteDance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The modified measure, passed by a 360-58 vote, now goes to the Senate after negotiations that lengthens&nbsp;the timeline for the company to sell to nine months, with a possible additional three months if a sale is in progress, the report said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-opposes-tiktok-ban-in-us-citing-free-speech-713204">Elon Musk opposes TikTok ban in US, citing free speech</a></strong></p>

<p>Legal challenges could extend that timeline even further, and TikTok is not expected to go away anytime soon.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Joe Biden to sign legislation</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden has stated that he would sign Saturday's legislation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, President Biden reiterated his concerns about TikTok in a telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping.</p>

<h2><strong>TikTok reacts to legislation</strong></h2>

<p>TikTok was quick to react to Saturday's legislation, saying a ban would trample free speech, and devastate businesses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;TikTok remains popular despite US lawmakers flagging concerns</strong></p>

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<p>"It is unfortunate that the House of Representatives is using the cover of important foreign and humanitarian assistance to once again jam through a ban bill that would trample the free speech rights of 170 million Americans, devastate 7 million businesses, and shutter a platform that contributes $24 billion to the US economy, annually," TikTok said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US House of Representatives on Saturday (Apr 20) passed legislation that would ban TikTok in the country if the platform's China-based owner ByteDance doesn’t sell its stake within a year.

The US House of Representatives on Saturday (Apr 20) passed legislation that would ban TikTok in the country if the platform's China-based owner ByteDance doesn’t sell its stake within a year. A report by the news agency Associated Press said that the decision by House Republicans to include TikTok as part of a larger foreign aid package fast-tracked the ban after an earlier version had stalled in the Senate. A standalone bill with a shorter deadline passed the House in March by an overwhelming bipartisan vote as both Democrats and Republicans voiced national security concerns about ByteDance. The modified measure, passed by a 360-58 vote, now goes to the Senate after negotiations that lengthens the timeline for the company to sell to nine months, with a possible additional three months if a sale is in progress, the report said. Also read | Elon Musk opposes TikTok ban in US, citing free speech Legal challenges could extend that timeline even further, and TikTok is not expected to go away anytime soon. Joe Biden to sign legislation US President Joe Biden has stated that he would sign Saturday's legislation. Earlier this month, President Biden reiterated his concerns about TikTok in a telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping. TikTok reacts to legislation TikTok was quick to react to Saturday's legislation, saying a ban would trample free speech, and devastate businesses. Also watch | TikTok remains popular despite US lawmakers flagging concerns × "It is unfortunate that the House of Representatives is using the cover of important foreign and humanitarian assistance to once again jam through a ban bill that would trample the free speech rights of 170 million Americans, devastate 7 million businesses, and shutter a platform that contributes $24 billion to the US economy, annually," TikTok said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

US House votes to ban TikTok, but the app won't go away anytime soon

Amid the rising tensions between Israel and Iran, Turkish president met Hamas leader in Istanbul. It was the first meeting since Israel began its campaign in Gaza on the 7th of October. Watch in for more details!

Israel war: Erdogan meets Hamas leader, first meeting since Israel's Gaza campaign

Several Palestinian gunmen were killed during a counter-terrorism raid in the West Bank’s Nur Shams refugee camp, close to Tulkarem, the Israeli military said. The IDF said its troops and Border Police officers raided Nur Shams overnight, during which several wanted Palestinians were detained. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli army launch raid on Nur Shams area, near Tulkarm city

The largest floating crane on the Eastern Seaboard has begun removing debris from the wreckage of the collapsed Key Bridge over the Baltimore Port channel. Watch in for more details!

Floating crane removes largest piece of collapsed Baltimore bridge

The US is expected to announce sanctions on a unit of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) for alleged human rights violations against Palestinian civilians in the West Bank, according to the reports. Watch in for more details!

US expected to impose sanctions on IDF's Netzah Yehuda battalion for violations in West Bank

<p>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.</p>

<p>Tehran waged an attack on Israel on April 13, firing more than 300 missiles and drones. It said the attack came in response to Israel’s suspected deadly bombing of its embassy compound in Damascus on April 1.</p>

<p>"How many missiles were launched and how many of them hit their target is not the primary question, what really matters is that Iran demonstrated its will-power during that operation," Khamenei said.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel's Friday strikes on Iran</strong></h2>

<p>Israel on Friday (Apr 19) is believed to have staged retaliatory strikes in the Iranian city of Isfahan. However, Tehran played down the attacks, with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian saying Saturday it was not a strike but resembled "toys our children play with, not drones."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Iran-Israel Tensions: Israel's costly defence vs Iran's cheap attack | Sizing up the costs of war</strong></p>

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<p>As per media reports, the muted response from the Iranian authorities indicates that both parties are trying to de-escalate the tensions.</p>

<h2><strong>Satellite imagery shows impact on Iranian base</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, satellite imagery released over the last 24 hours has confirmed the impact of attacks on an Iranian air base. BBC reported that a part of an air defence system at an airfield in Isfahan was damaged in Israeli strikes on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwihv77Wr9OFAxV2wzgGHUKsBigQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-iranians-react-to-suspected-israeli-strike-on-isfahan-712999" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-iranians-react-to-suspected-israeli-strike-on-isfahan-712999&amp;ved=2ahUKEwihv77Wr9OFAxV2wzgGHUKsBigQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">Iran-Israel tensions: Iranians react to suspected Israeli strike on Isfahan</a></strong></p>

<p>However, it remains unclear what type of weapons were used in the attack, over which Israel has maintained silence.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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.

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. Tehran waged an attack on Israel on April 13, firing more than 300 missiles and drones. It said the attack came in response to Israel’s suspected deadly bombing of its embassy compound in Damascus on April 1. "How many missiles were launched and how many of them hit their target is not the primary question, what really matters is that Iran demonstrated its will-power during that operation," Khamenei said. Israel's Friday strikes on Iran Israel on Friday (Apr 19) is believed to have staged retaliatory strikes in the Iranian city of Isfahan. However, Tehran played down the attacks, with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian saying Saturday it was not a strike but resembled "toys our children play with, not drones." Watch: Iran-Israel Tensions: Israel's costly defence vs Iran's cheap attack | Sizing up the costs of war × As per media reports, the muted response from the Iranian authorities indicates that both parties are trying to de-escalate the tensions. Satellite imagery shows impact on Iranian base Meanwhile, satellite imagery released over the last 24 hours has confirmed the impact of attacks on an Iranian air base. BBC reported that a part of an air defence system at an airfield in Isfahan was damaged in Israeli strikes on Friday. Also read: Iran-Israel tensions: Iranians react to suspected Israeli strike on Isfahan However, it remains unclear what type of weapons were used in the attack, over which Israel has maintained silence. (With inputs from agencies)

Ali Khamenei thanks Iranian forces for attacking Israel, urges them to learn ‘enemy tactics’

According to the March 2024 data released by Maldives government, Indian tourist arrivals to Maldives have plummeted by over 50% compared to the same month in the previous year in March. Watch in for more details!

Indian tourist numbers slump in Maldives

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<p>According to Axios, the Biden administration may announce sanctions against the IDF's Netzah Yehuda battalion for alleged human rights violations against Palestinians in the West Bank for the first time.</p>

<p>The IDF's Netzah Yehuda group has previously been at the heart of various controversies involving right-wing extremism and violence against Palestinians.</p>

<p>The battalion was relocated out of the West Bank in December 2022, however, Israel denied this was due to their conduct, and it has since operated mostly in the country's north. It has been deployed to the Gaza Strip as part of the ongoing conflict against Hamas.</p>

<p>According to sources, sanctions would prohibit the supply of US weaponry to the primarily ultra-Orthodox infantry unit, as well as block its men from training with US forces or participating in any activity funded by the US under the Leahy Laws.</p>

<h2><strong>Here's how Israeli officials and the prime minister reacted to the news:</strong></h2>

<p>"Sanctions must not be imposed on the Israel Defense Forces! In recent weeks, I have been working against the imposition of sanctions on Israeli citizens, including in my conversations with senior American government officials. At a time when our soldiers are fighting the monsters of terror, the intention to impose a sanction on a unit in the IDF is the height of absurdity and a moral low. The government headed by me will act by all means against these moves," PM Netanyahu wrote.</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="iw">גדוד נצח יהודה הוא חלק בלתי נפרד מצה״ל. הוא כפוף לחוק הצבאי, והוא פועל בהתאם למשפט הבינלאומי.<br />
למדינת ישראל מערכת משפט חזקה ועצמאית, שיודעת לבדוק ולבחון כל הפרת חוק או חריגה מפקודות צה״ל, וכך גם נעשה.<br />
יש לי הערכה רבה לידידינו האמריקאים, אבל הטלת סנקציות על היחידה היא תקדים מסוכן,…</p>
— בני גנץ - Benny Gantz (@gantzbe) <a href="https://twitter.com/gantzbe/status/1781782976340107356?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Defence minister Benny Gantz also took to X to voice his opinion on the matter, and wrote, "The Netzah Yehuda Battalion is an integral part of the IDF. It is subject to military law, and it operates by international law."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidvwKkhiDVPmtH" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="http://wionews.com/world/benny-gantz-leads-in-preference-for-israeli-pm-netanyahu-not-far-behind-survey-713346" target="_blank">Benny Gantz leads in preference for Israeli PM, Netanyahu not far behind: Survey</a></strong></p>

<p>The State of Israel has a strong and independent judicial system, which knows how to investigate and examine any violation of the law or deviation from IDF orders, and so we will do. I have great respect for our American friends, but imposing sanctions on the unit is a dangerous precedent, and also sends the wrong message to our common enemies in a time of war. I will work so that this decision does not pass."</p>

<p>Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said, "A decision to impose American sanctions on the IDF while Israel is fighting for its existence is absolute madness. We warned that the Biden administration's sanctions against the settlers will continue for the IDF and the entire State of Israel. This is part of a planned move to force the State of Israel to agree to the establishment of a Palestinian state and abandon Israel's security."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


According to Axios, the Biden administration may announce sanctions against the IDF's Netzah Yehuda battalion for alleged human rights violations against Palestinians in the West Bank for the first time.

According to Axios, the Biden administration may announce sanctions against the IDF's Netzah Yehuda battalion for alleged human rights violations against Palestinians in the West Bank for the first time. The IDF's Netzah Yehuda group has previously been at the heart of various controversies involving right-wing extremism and violence against Palestinians. The battalion was relocated out of the West Bank in December 2022, however, Israel denied this was due to their conduct, and it has since operated mostly in the country's north. It has been deployed to the Gaza Strip as part of the ongoing conflict against Hamas. According to sources, sanctions would prohibit the supply of US weaponry to the primarily ultra-Orthodox infantry unit, as well as block its men from training with US forces or participating in any activity funded by the US under the Leahy Laws. Here's how Israeli officials and the prime minister reacted to the news: "Sanctions must not be imposed on the Israel Defense Forces! In recent weeks, I have been working against the imposition of sanctions on Israeli citizens, including in my conversations with senior American government officials. At a time when our soldiers are fighting the monsters of terror, the intention to impose a sanction on a unit in the IDF is the height of absurdity and a moral low. The government headed by me will act by all means against these moves," PM Netanyahu wrote. גדוד נצח יהודה הוא חלק בלתי נפרד מצה״ל. הוא כפוף לחוק הצבאי, והוא פועל בהתאם למשפט הבינלאומי. למדינת ישראל מערכת משפט חזקה ועצמאית, שיודעת לבדוק ולבחון כל הפרת חוק או חריגה מפקודות צה״ל, וכך גם נעשה. יש לי הערכה רבה לידידינו האמריקאים, אבל הטלת סנקציות על היחידה היא תקדים מסוכן,… — בני גנץ - Benny Gantz (@gantzbe) April 20, 2024 × Defence minister Benny Gantz also took to X to voice his opinion on the matter, and wrote, "The Netzah Yehuda Battalion is an integral part of the IDF. It is subject to military law, and it operates by international law." Also read: Benny Gantz leads in preference for Israeli PM, Netanyahu not far behind: Survey The State of Israel has a strong and independent judicial system, which knows how to investigate and examine any violation of the law or deviation from IDF orders, and so we will do. I have great respect for our American friends, but imposing sanctions on the unit is a dangerous precedent, and also sends the wrong message to our common enemies in a time of war. I will work so that this decision does not pass." Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said, "A decision to impose American sanctions on the IDF while Israel is fighting for its existence is absolute madness. We warned that the Biden administration's sanctions against the settlers will continue for the IDF and the entire State of Israel. This is part of a planned move to force the State of Israel to agree to the establishment of a Palestinian state and abandon Israel's security."

US to sanction IDF unit for human rights violations against Palestinians, Netanyahu reacts

Residents of the West Bank village of al-Mughayyer described the aftermath of the Israeli attack, which lasted several hours, is evident in the torched homes and cars that still bear testament to the violence. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli settlers torch homes, cars in the West Bank

<p>Officials stated that on Sunday (April 21), experts removed an unexploded bomb from a southern Serbian city that dated back to the NATO bombing of the country in 1999.</p>

<p>This action led to the evacuation of over a thousand residents. The 1,000-kilogramme (2,200-pound) bomb was safely extracted from a construction site in the Nis neighborhood, as confirmed by an official from the interior ministry.</p>

<p>"It is being transported to a safe location where it will be destroyed,"&nbsp;official Luka Causic told reporters.</p>

<p>He added that prior to the bomb's removal, 1,300 residents from the area where it was discovered were evacuated to ensure their safety.</p>

<p>Police, firefighters, and medical teams were on site to guarantee its safe transportation.</p>

<p>Causic mentioned that the MK-84 bomb contains an explosive charge of 430 kilogrammes.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;IDF bombs Hezbollah in Lebanon | US house passes $95 billion aid bill</strong></p>

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<p>NATO initiated its bombing campaign against Serbia on March 24, 1999, without authorisation from the UN Security Council, and it continued for 78 days.</p>

<p>The objective was to halt the violent suppression of ethnic Albanian separatists in Kosovo by Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic.</p>

<p>One of the deadliest incidents during the campaign occurred in Nis on May 7, 1999. Over a dozen people lost their lives when NATO aircraft dropped cluster bombs on a crowded central outdoor market. This event was later acknowledged as a "mistake."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-arrested-from-denmark-airport-after-bomb-threat-triggers-evacuation-probe-on-713418">Also read |&nbsp;Man arrested from Denmark airport after bomb threat triggers evacuation, probe on</a></p>

<p>Additionally, the city experienced another bombing on May 12 of that year, resulting in the deaths of 11 civilians due to cluster bombs.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Officials stated that on Sunday (April 21), experts removed an unexploded bomb from a southern Serbian city that dated back to the NATO bombing of the country in 1999.

Officials stated that on Sunday (April 21), experts removed an unexploded bomb from a southern Serbian city that dated back to the NATO bombing of the country in 1999. This action led to the evacuation of over a thousand residents. The 1,000-kilogramme (2,200-pound) bomb was safely extracted from a construction site in the Nis neighborhood, as confirmed by an official from the interior ministry. "It is being transported to a safe location where it will be destroyed," official Luka Causic told reporters. He added that prior to the bomb's removal, 1,300 residents from the area where it was discovered were evacuated to ensure their safety. Police, firefighters, and medical teams were on site to guarantee its safe transportation. Causic mentioned that the MK-84 bomb contains an explosive charge of 430 kilogrammes. Also watch | IDF bombs Hezbollah in Lebanon | US house passes $95 billion aid bill NATO initiated its bombing campaign against Serbia on March 24, 1999, without authorisation from the UN Security Council, and it continued for 78 days. The objective was to halt the violent suppression of ethnic Albanian separatists in Kosovo by Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic. One of the deadliest incidents during the campaign occurred in Nis on May 7, 1999. Over a dozen people lost their lives when NATO aircraft dropped cluster bombs on a crowded central outdoor market. This event was later acknowledged as a "mistake." Also read | Man arrested from Denmark airport after bomb threat triggers evacuation, probe on Additionally, the city experienced another bombing on May 12 of that year, resulting in the deaths of 11 civilians due to cluster bombs. (With inputs from agencies)

1,000 kg NATO bomb excavated from Serbian city; thousands evacuated

Polling is underway on Sunday for the parliamentary elections in the Maldives. People are voting to elect 93 members of the Maldivian Parliament also known as Majlis. The results of the polls will be announced later in the day. Watch in for more details!

Maldivian Parliamentary Elections 2024: Can Muizzu's party win parliamentary majority?

Maldivian Parliamentary Elections 2024: Why parliamentary majority is critical for Muizzu?

<p>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;</p>

<p>Joshi's parents visited Kathmandu to meet Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, marking one of the several occasions they have met with him. At the meeting, the family handed over a letter to the prime minister, urging the Nepal government to take action for the safe release of their son, whom they have not heard from since October 7, 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our son Bipin Joshi, who participated in the Learn and Earn programme from Sudurpaschim University, embarked on a journey to Israel on September 12, 2023. Tragically, less than a month into his stay, on October 7, he was taken captive by the Hamas group during an incident involving Israel and Hamas. It's important to bring this to your attention. Bipin, along with his fellow classmates, ventured to Israel last year as part of his university studies, supported by governmental supervision. Their goal was to contribute to the agricultural sector back home by applying the skills acquired in Israel,” Joshi’s parents— Mahanand Joshi and Padma Joshi wrote in the letter.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-summon-envoys-for-voting-in-favour-of-palestines-full-un-membership-713565">Israel to summon envoys for voting in favour of Palestine's full UN membership</a></p>

<p>“With no end in sight to the ongoing conflict and turmoil in the region since the incident, we find ourselves grappling with the bleak reality of our son's uncertain fate, both physically and emotionally,” the letter included.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to WION, the family of Bipin Joshi expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the Nepal government is not exerting sufficient pressure for his release.</p>

<p>“It has been over 7 months since the tragic incident unfolded. Despite reaching out to various Nepali authorities, we remain without any updates regarding his whereabouts. I urge the Nepali government and the international community to take action to secure his release,” said Prakash Joshi, brother of Bipin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-jets-hit-hezbollah-targets-in-southern-lebanon-overnight-713558">IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight, kill operatives</a></p>

<p>Prakash further added they have not been able to get in contact with Bipin since the attack, “We became aware of his hostage situation through CCTV footage released by the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces). His health and well-being remain unknown to us.”</p>

<p>The family implores the authorities to ascertain Bipin's condition, expressing concern over his numerous health issues and questioning whether he is receiving adequate food and medication.</p>

<p>“For more than half a year, we've been tirelessly reaching out to various authorities. We've engaged with the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, President, and even the Israel Embassy. While the feedback has been encouraging, there has been tangible progress. Despite this, we persist in our daily meetings with officials, with hope and determination,” Pushpa Joshi, sister of Bipin Joshi told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-us-expected-to-sanction-idfs-battalion-for-violations-in-west-bank-report-713564">Israel war: US expected to sanction IDF's battalion for violations in West Bank: Report</a></strong></p>

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<p>Mahanand Joshi, father of Bipin Joshi is optimistic that during the upcoming visit of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Nepal on April 23, they may receive an update or some progress regarding the status of his son.</p>

<p>Nepal has earlier made several attempts seeking assistance from Qatar and the officials continue to meet with the Ambassador in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On March 20, Qatar Ambassador Mishal Mohammed Ali Al-Ansari paid a courtesy call on the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha, and the release of Bipin Joshi was discussed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani had told then Foreign Minister NP Saud that all efforts were being made for the release, during Saud’s visit to Doha to attend the 21st Doha Forum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The October 7 attack left 10 Nepali students dead and four others injured, who had reached the West Asian country under the ‘Learn and Earn Programme’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Joshi is one of the 17 Nepali students who were living at Kibbutz Alumim in southern Israel, close to the Palestinian enclave Gaza, and came under attack from the Islamist group that rules the strip, as per Nepal’s Foreign Ministry.</p>

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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.

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. Joshi's parents visited Kathmandu to meet Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, marking one of the several occasions they have met with him. At the meeting, the family handed over a letter to the prime minister, urging the Nepal government to take action for the safe release of their son, whom they have not heard from since October 7, 2023. “Our son Bipin Joshi, who participated in the Learn and Earn programme from Sudurpaschim University, embarked on a journey to Israel on September 12, 2023. Tragically, less than a month into his stay, on October 7, he was taken captive by the Hamas group during an incident involving Israel and Hamas. It's important to bring this to your attention. Bipin, along with his fellow classmates, ventured to Israel last year as part of his university studies, supported by governmental supervision. Their goal was to contribute to the agricultural sector back home by applying the skills acquired in Israel,” Joshi’s parents— Mahanand Joshi and Padma Joshi wrote in the letter. Also Read | Israel to summon envoys for voting in favour of Palestine's full UN membership “With no end in sight to the ongoing conflict and turmoil in the region since the incident, we find ourselves grappling with the bleak reality of our son's uncertain fate, both physically and emotionally,” the letter included. Speaking to WION, the family of Bipin Joshi expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the Nepal government is not exerting sufficient pressure for his release. “It has been over 7 months since the tragic incident unfolded. Despite reaching out to various Nepali authorities, we remain without any updates regarding his whereabouts. I urge the Nepali government and the international community to take action to secure his release,” said Prakash Joshi, brother of Bipin. Also Read | IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight, kill operatives Prakash further added they have not been able to get in contact with Bipin since the attack, “We became aware of his hostage situation through CCTV footage released by the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces). His health and well-being remain unknown to us.” The family implores the authorities to ascertain Bipin's condition, expressing concern over his numerous health issues and questioning whether he is receiving adequate food and medication. “For more than half a year, we've been tirelessly reaching out to various authorities. We've engaged with the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, President, and even the Israel Embassy. While the feedback has been encouraging, there has been tangible progress. Despite this, we persist in our daily meetings with officials, with hope and determination,” Pushpa Joshi, sister of Bipin Joshi told WION. Watch | Israel war: US expected to sanction IDF's battalion for violations in West Bank: Report × Mahanand Joshi, father of Bipin Joshi is optimistic that during the upcoming visit of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Nepal on April 23, they may receive an update or some progress regarding the status of his son. Nepal has earlier made several attempts seeking assistance from Qatar and the officials continue to meet with the Ambassador in Nepal. On March 20, Qatar Ambassador Mishal Mohammed Ali Al-Ansari paid a courtesy call on the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha, and the release of Bipin Joshi was discussed. Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani had told then Foreign Minister NP Saud that all efforts were being made for the release, during Saud’s visit to Doha to attend the 21st Doha Forum. The October 7 attack left 10 Nepali students dead and four others injured, who had reached the West Asian country under the ‘Learn and Earn Programme’. Joshi is one of the 17 Nepali students who were living at Kibbutz Alumim in southern Israel, close to the Palestinian enclave Gaza, and came under attack from the Islamist group that rules the strip, as per Nepal’s Foreign Ministry.

Family of Nepali student held captive by Hamas turns to international community, as faith in Nepal govt wanes

Protests calling for the bodies of deceased Nepalese soldiers who are fighting the war in Ukraine are gathering pace in the Himalayan nation. Nepal was seeking monetary compensation from Russia for the kin of those soldiers killed in fighting. Watch in for more details!

Protest against Russian army recruitment on Nepali youth

US to issue sanctions on Israeli military unit for violations in West Bank

US expected to impose sanction on IDF unit for human rights violations in West Bank

China is all set to host 19th biennial meeting of the Western Pacific Naval Symposium (WPNS) in the port city of Qingdao in east China's Shandong Province. Watch in for more details!

China to host 19th Western Pacific Naval Symposium in Shandong

Two Japanese navy helicopters have crashed into the Pacific Ocean during a night-time training flight after a possible mid-air collision, killing at least one of the eight crew members on board. Watch in for more details!

Two Japanese naval choppers crash into sea, one dead

The Chinese Navy on Sunday kicked off a biennial meeting of top foreign naval officials in the port city of Qingdao, in a show of military diplomacy that will be closely watched for signs of more engagement between China and the United States. Watch in for more details!

China holds biennial meeting of top foreign naval officials

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<p>Dubai recently found itself amid a climate crisis as severe thunderstorms swept through the city, leaving a trail of destruction. The impact of the thunderstorm was felt across the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The state-run weather agency described it as a "historic weather event," as rain hadn't been witnessed in Dubai for 75 years. A timelapse video of Dubai rain is making rounds of social media</p>

<p>The timelapse footage, posted on X, with the caption "Dubai: Timelapse of the massive storm that caused a historic flood," garnered over 3.9 million views and over 9,000 retweets.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dubai: Timelapse of the massive storm that caused a historic flood. <a href="https://t.co/tackWMYJzO">pic.twitter.com/tackWMYJzO</a></p>
— Pagan 🚩 (@paganhindu) <a href="https://twitter.com/paganhindu/status/1780437276423758154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://wionews.com/world/watch-planes-battle-through-floods-at-dubai-airport-712189" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Planes wade through flash floods at Dubai airport, several flights cancelled</strong></a></p>

<p>"Wow, Mother Nature sure knows how to make a grand entrance in Dubai! Nature's power is truly awe-inspiring," wrote one user.</p>

<p>"This looks like a natural disaster. Man really is insignificant in the face of nature," wrote another.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://wionews.com/world/dubai-floods-india-embassy-in-uae-urges-indians-to-reschedule-their-travel-713049" target="_blank"><strong>Dubai floods: India embassy in UAE urges Indians to reschedule their travel</strong></a></p>

<p>"Looks like they have no drains there hence all the water collects on asphalt and concrete roads and becomes an artificial lake. If they had a good way harvest all that precious water it would have been so good," commented a third.</p>

<p>Some users speculated that the rain was man-made. One such user wrote, "#Dubai has been experiencing flooding due to a combination of natural and possibly man-made factors. The recent heavy rainfall is a significant contributor, with nearly 50 millimeters (2 inches) of rain falling in Dubai over six hours, which is a considerable amount for a region that receives under 120 millimeters (4.7 inches) of precipitation a year. This intense rainfall overwhelmed the city's drainage systems, leading to localized flooding and disruptions, including at the world's busiest airport for international travel."</p>

<p>While Dubai faced the aftermath of the storm, neighbouring Oman faced similar challenges. According to Reuters, at least 20 people lost their lives in Oman due to dire weather.&nbsp;</p>


Dubai recently found itself amid a climate crisis as severe thunderstorms swept through the city, leaving a trail of destruction. The impact of the thunderstorm was felt across the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Dubai recently found itself amid a climate crisis as severe thunderstorms swept through the city, leaving a trail of destruction. The impact of the thunderstorm was felt across the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The state-run weather agency described it as a "historic weather event," as rain hadn't been witnessed in Dubai for 75 years. A timelapse video of Dubai rain is making rounds of social media The timelapse footage, posted on X, with the caption "Dubai: Timelapse of the massive storm that caused a historic flood," garnered over 3.9 million views and over 9,000 retweets. Dubai: Timelapse of the massive storm that caused a historic flood. pic.twitter.com/tackWMYJzO — Pagan 🚩 (@paganhindu) April 17, 2024 × Also read: WATCH: Planes wade through flash floods at Dubai airport, several flights cancelled "Wow, Mother Nature sure knows how to make a grand entrance in Dubai! Nature's power is truly awe-inspiring," wrote one user. "This looks like a natural disaster. Man really is insignificant in the face of nature," wrote another. Also read: Dubai floods: India embassy in UAE urges Indians to reschedule their travel "Looks like they have no drains there hence all the water collects on asphalt and concrete roads and becomes an artificial lake. If they had a good way harvest all that precious water it would have been so good," commented a third. Some users speculated that the rain was man-made. One such user wrote, "#Dubai has been experiencing flooding due to a combination of natural and possibly man-made factors. The recent heavy rainfall is a significant contributor, with nearly 50 millimeters (2 inches) of rain falling in Dubai over six hours, which is a considerable amount for a region that receives under 120 millimeters (4.7 inches) of precipitation a year. This intense rainfall overwhelmed the city's drainage systems, leading to localized flooding and disruptions, including at the world's busiest airport for international travel." While Dubai faced the aftermath of the storm, neighbouring Oman faced similar challenges. According to Reuters, at least 20 people lost their lives in Oman due to dire weather.

Watch | Video shows Dubai's record-breaking storm, netizens react

<p>Israeli fighter jets struck several Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon in overnight strikes on Saturday (April 20) into Sunday (April 21), Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The IDF said one of the strikes targeted a Hezbollah operative at one of the group's sites in Tayr Harfa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Separate strikes hit a Hezbollah observation post in Odaisseh and buildings used by the terror group in Khiam, the army added.</p>

<p>Earlier on Saturday (April 20), amid continued border skirmishes, at least three members of the Hezbollah terror group were killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-targets-hezbollah-training-camp-in-lebanon-near-syria-border-report-708520">Israel targets Hezbollah training camp in Lebanon near Syria border: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The Israel Defense Forces said that they&nbsp;had carried out strikes on Hezbollah operatives in Ayta ash-Shab and Kfar Kila in the morning hours, after they were spotted entering sites belonging to the terror group.</p>

<p>Later in the day, the IDF said they spotted several more Hezbollah operatives at one of the group’s sites in Jebbayn before fighter jets struck the building. Hezbollah announced that three of its members were killed in the strike in Jebbayn.</p>

<p>Their deaths brought the terror group’s toll amid the war in Gaza to 285.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel war: IDF strikes south Lebanon, kills Hezbollah commander</strong></p>

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<p>Since October 8, Hezbollah has attacked Israeli communities and military posts along the border on a daily basis with rockets, drones and anti-tank missiles in purported solidarity with the Hamas terrorists&nbsp;and Palestinians in Gaza.</p>

<p>Israel has threatened to go to war to push Hezbollah away from the border if it does not retreat and continues to threaten northern Israel from where some 70,000 people were evacuated to avoid the fighting.</p>

<p>Hezbollah's entry in the conflict has resulted in eight civilian deaths on the Israeli side as well as the deaths of 10 IDF soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hezbollah has named 285 members who have been killed by Israel during the ongoing skirmishes, mostly in Lebanon, but some also in Syria. In Lebanon, another 54 operatives from other terror groups, a Lebanese soldier, and at least 60 civilians have been killed.<br />
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<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli fighter jets struck several Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon in overnight strikes on Saturday (April 20) into Sunday (April 21), Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said.

Israeli fighter jets struck several Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon in overnight strikes on Saturday (April 20) into Sunday (April 21), Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said. The IDF said one of the strikes targeted a Hezbollah operative at one of the group's sites in Tayr Harfa. Separate strikes hit a Hezbollah observation post in Odaisseh and buildings used by the terror group in Khiam, the army added. Earlier on Saturday (April 20), amid continued border skirmishes, at least three members of the Hezbollah terror group were killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon. Also read | Israel targets Hezbollah training camp in Lebanon near Syria border: Report The Israel Defense Forces said that they had carried out strikes on Hezbollah operatives in Ayta ash-Shab and Kfar Kila in the morning hours, after they were spotted entering sites belonging to the terror group. Later in the day, the IDF said they spotted several more Hezbollah operatives at one of the group’s sites in Jebbayn before fighter jets struck the building. Hezbollah announced that three of its members were killed in the strike in Jebbayn. Their deaths brought the terror group’s toll amid the war in Gaza to 285. Also watch | Israel war: IDF strikes south Lebanon, kills Hezbollah commander × Since October 8, Hezbollah has attacked Israeli communities and military posts along the border on a daily basis with rockets, drones and anti-tank missiles in purported solidarity with the Hamas terrorists and Palestinians in Gaza. Israel has threatened to go to war to push Hezbollah away from the border if it does not retreat and continues to threaten northern Israel from where some 70,000 people were evacuated to avoid the fighting. Hezbollah's entry in the conflict has resulted in eight civilian deaths on the Israeli side as well as the deaths of 10 IDF soldiers. Hezbollah has named 285 members who have been killed by Israel during the ongoing skirmishes, mostly in Lebanon, but some also in Syria. In Lebanon, another 54 operatives from other terror groups, a Lebanese soldier, and at least 60 civilians have been killed. (With inputs from agencies)

IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight, kill operatives

A flash point emerges between the US and Israel amid reports of intense violence in the West Bank. The Biden administration is slated to impose sanctions against the IDF's Netzah Yehuda Battalion for alleged human rights abuses directed towards the Palestinians in the West Bank. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu, Gantz slam US plan to sanction IDF unit

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