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West Asia continues to simmer. According to reports an explosion occurred at a military base in Iraq early on Saturday causing a large fire. Watch in for more details!

Blasts in Iraq after explosions heard near major Iranian base

Watch in the top headlines of the hour: - IDF raids refugee camps in West Bank - US House advances $95 billion aid package - Blasts rock military base in Iraq - Trump Hush Money Trial: Final jury named - North Korea heads cruise missile warhead

Blasts rock military base in Iraq | US house advances $95 billion aid package

Iraq military base explosion: 1 killed & 8 injured in blast at Iraqi military base

The US House of Representatives has advanced the 95 billion aid package for Ukraine Israel and the Indo Pacific. This comes following Friday's vote where Democrats managed to push the legislation past the Republican opposition. Watch in for details!

Ukraine war: US passes 'forgivable loan' in humanitarian aid for Ukraine

An explosion happened overnight at an Iraqi military installation that house&nbsp;a coalition of pro-Iranian armed groups, security sources reported on Saturday (April 20). In other news,&nbsp;Gunmen killed 22 pro-government fighters in central Syria on Thursday (Apr 18)&nbsp;night. A report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday said that the gunmen attacked a bus carrying members of the Quds Brigade near the&nbsp;town of Sukhna.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;On&nbsp;Monday&nbsp;(April&nbsp;22),&nbsp;a&nbsp;jury&nbsp;will&nbsp;hear&nbsp;opening&nbsp;arguments&nbsp;on&nbsp;whether&nbsp;Donald&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;fabricated&nbsp;bank&nbsp;records&nbsp;in&nbsp;order&nbsp;to&nbsp;conceal&nbsp;an&nbsp;alleged&nbsp;affair&nbsp;from&nbsp;voters&nbsp;during&nbsp;the&nbsp;2016&nbsp;presidential&nbsp;race.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqs-military-base-bombed-one-dead-several-injured-sources-713217">Iraq's military base bombed; one dead, several injured: Sources</a>

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An explosion occurred overnight at an Iraqi military base housing a coalition of pro-Iranian armed groups, two security sources said on Saturday (April 20).&nbsp;It was an airstrike at the military base in Babylon province south of Baghdad, where Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces, or Hashed al-Shaabi, is stationed, according to officials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kill-22-pro-government-fighters-in-central-syria-attack-blamed-on-isis-713225">Gunmen kill 22 pro-government fighters in central Syria, attack blamed on ISIS</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/20/426298-untitled-design-72.png?imwidth=400" />

Gunmen killed 22 pro-government fighters in central Syria on Thursday (Apr 18)&nbsp;night. A report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday said that the gunmen attacked a bus carrying members of the Quds Brigade near the&nbsp;town of Sukhna. There was no immediate claim of responsibility&nbsp;but&nbsp;both the&nbsp;Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and pro-government media said that the Islamic State (ISIS) was behind the attack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opening-statements-scheduled-in-trumps-new-york-hush-money-trial-713202">Donald Trump's hush money trial opening statements set for Monday</a>

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<a>A jury is scheduled to listen to opening statements on Monday (April 22), regarding whether Donald Trump falsified bank records as part of his attempt to conceal an alleged affair from voters during the 2016 election.</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-agrees-to-withdraw-troops-from-niger-report-713205">US agrees to withdraw troops from Niger amid protests</a>

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The United States informed the government of Niger that it has agreed to its request to withdraw US troops from the West African country, said three US officials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-funding-chinas-abuses-us-investments-in-china-under-scrutiny-713053">Watch |&nbsp;US funding China's 'abuses'? US investments in China under scrutiny</a>

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An explosion happened overnight at an Iraqi military installation that house a coalition of pro-Iranian armed groups, security sources reported on Saturday (April 20).

An explosion happened overnight at an Iraqi military installation that house a coalition of pro-Iranian armed groups, security sources reported on Saturday (April 20). In other news, Gunmen killed 22 pro-government fighters in central Syria on Thursday (Apr 18) night. A report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday said that the gunmen attacked a bus carrying members of the Quds Brigade near the town of Sukhna. Meanwhile, On Monday (April 22), a jury will hear opening arguments on whether Donald Trump fabricated bank records in order to conceal an alleged affair from voters during the 2016 presidential race. Click on the headlines to read more: Iraq's military base bombed; one dead, several injured: Sources An explosion occurred overnight at an Iraqi military base housing a coalition of pro-Iranian armed groups, two security sources said on Saturday (April 20). It was an airstrike at the military base in Babylon province south of Baghdad, where Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces, or Hashed al-Shaabi, is stationed, according to officials. Gunmen kill 22 pro-government fighters in central Syria, attack blamed on ISIS Gunmen killed 22 pro-government fighters in central Syria on Thursday (Apr 18) night. A report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday said that the gunmen attacked a bus carrying members of the Quds Brigade near the town of Sukhna. There was no immediate claim of responsibility but both the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and pro-government media said that the Islamic State (ISIS) was behind the attack. Donald Trump's hush money trial opening statements set for Monday A jury is scheduled to listen to opening statements on Monday (April 22), regarding whether Donald Trump falsified bank records as part of his attempt to conceal an alleged affair from voters during the 2016 election. US agrees to withdraw troops from Niger amid protests The United States informed the government of Niger that it has agreed to its request to withdraw US troops from the West African country, said three US officials. Watch | US funding China's 'abuses'? US investments in China under scrutiny ×

Morning news brief: Iraq's military base bombed; 22 pro-government fighters killed in central Syria, and more

Gunmen killed 22 pro-government fighters in central Syria on Thursday (Apr 18) night. A report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday said that the gunmen attacked a bus carrying members of the Quds Brigade near the town of Sukhna.

Gunmen killed 22 pro-government fighters in central Syria on Thursday (Apr 18) night. A report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday said that the gunmen attacked a bus carrying members of the Quds Brigade near the town of Sukhna. There was no immediate claim of responsibility but both the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and pro-government media said that the Islamic State (ISIS) was behind the attack. While pro-media said that all the fighters killed were Quds Brigade members, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the majority belonged to the group. The Quds Brigade fought on the side of Syrian government forces during the country’s 13-year conflict. Also read | Islamic State 'executes' eight Syrian soldiers in desert ambush, reports war monitor The brigade is different from the military wing of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group, which uses the same name. Thursday night's attack came weeks after ISIS executed eight Syrian regime soldiers following an ambush in late March. The Syrian troops were headed for Sukhna towards the city of Deir Ezzor when they were attacked. Despite the ISIS' defeat in Syria in March 2019, the terrorist group's sleeper cells have been blamed for deadly attacks against both Syrian government forces and against members of the US-backed and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. Earlier this year, a report released by the United Nations (UN) said that ISIS' combined strength in Iraq and Syria "was assessed at between 3,000 and 5,000 fighters." The report said that the ISIS intensified attacks since November last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Gunmen kill 22 pro-government fighters in central Syria, attack blamed on ISIS

New studies have described the ways in which tiny microplastics can end up in humans' organs and even in the brains. According to the study, ingested microplastics spread from the gut to the brain, liver, and kidneys.

Study finds evidence of microplastics inside human body

The US House of Representatives will finally vote on Saturday on a series of foreign aid bills, bringing an end to a months-long standoff in Congress led mostly by Republicans who refuse to support funding Ukraine’s ongoing military defense against Russia’s invasion.

US House to vote on long-awaited Ukraine aid bill

Iran has said Israeli involvement in Friday's attack is still to be established and dismissed the drones used as like children's toys. Israel hasn't commented but is widely believed to be behind the strike targeting an airbase and nuclear site near Isfahan. Watch in for more details!

Iran-Israel Tensions: Iran foreign minister playS down apparent Israeli strike

Iran-Israel Tensions: Iran plays down reported Israeli attacks, signals no further retaliation

US officials announced on Friday (April 19) that the UN World Food Program (WFP) has agreed to participate in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza.&nbsp;

This involvement could be a breakthrough, as it addresses a key hurdle, the hesitation of many aid groups to distribute supplies directly in Gaza without significant changes from Israel.

After an Israeli military attack on April 1&nbsp;killed seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen, the Netanyahu government&nbsp;received a lot of international flak&nbsp;for failing to provide security to humanitarian workers or allow adequate amounts of aid across its land borders.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-says-us-not-involved-in-any-offensive-operation-713037">Israel vs Iran: Blinken says US ‘not involved in any offensive operation’</a>

Facing criticism over Gaza's humanitarian crisis, President Biden announced in March the US military would build a temporary pier to deliver aid by sea, bypassing land routes controlled by Israel. The UN World Food Program has since agreed to partner on aid distribution.

There was no immediate comment from the WFP on the matter.

Israel promised to open more border crossings into Gaza and increase the flow of aid after its drone strikes killed the seven aid workers, who were delivering food into the Palestinian territory.

The US military will build a modular bridge as part of the maritime route, in hopes that handling the inspection and processing of the aid offshore will speed the distribution to people in Gaza.

Offshore, the Army plans to construct a large floating platform for ships to unload pallets of aid. The aid will then be transported by Army boats to a motorised chain of steel pier or causeway sections, which will be securely anchored to the shore.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vetoes-palestinian-request-for-full-statehood-at-united-nations-712748">US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations</a>

Several Army vessels and Miliary Sealift Command ships are already in the Mediterranean Sea, and are working to prepare and build the platform and pier.

The Pentagon said it could provide somewhere to 2 million meals a day for Gaza residents.

Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, told reporters that US in on track to have the system in place by the end of the month or early May. The actual construction of the pier had been on hold as US and international officials hammered out agreements for the collection and distribution of the aid.

He said the U.S. has been making progress, and that Israel has agreed to provide security on the shore.

(With inputs from agencies)

US officials announced on Friday (April 19) that the UN World Food Program (WFP) has agreed to participate in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. This involvement could be a breakthrough, as it addresses a key hurdle, the hesitation of many aid groups to distribute supplies directly in Gaza without significant changes from Israel.

US officials announced on Friday (April 19) that the UN World Food Program (WFP) has agreed to participate in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. This involvement could be a breakthrough, as it addresses a key hurdle, the hesitation of many aid groups to distribute supplies directly in Gaza without significant changes from Israel. After an Israeli military attack on April 1 killed seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen, the Netanyahu government received a lot of international flak for failing to provide security to humanitarian workers or allow adequate amounts of aid across its land borders. Also read: Israel vs Iran: Blinken says US ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ Facing criticism over Gaza's humanitarian crisis, President Biden announced in March the US military would build a temporary pier to deliver aid by sea, bypassing land routes controlled by Israel. The UN World Food Program has since agreed to partner on aid distribution. There was no immediate comment from the WFP on the matter. Israel promised to open more border crossings into Gaza and increase the flow of aid after its drone strikes killed the seven aid workers, who were delivering food into the Palestinian territory. The US military will build a modular bridge as part of the maritime route, in hopes that handling the inspection and processing of the aid offshore will speed the distribution to people in Gaza. Offshore, the Army plans to construct a large floating platform for ships to unload pallets of aid. The aid will then be transported by Army boats to a motorised chain of steel pier or causeway sections, which will be securely anchored to the shore. Also read: US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations Several Army vessels and Miliary Sealift Command ships are already in the Mediterranean Sea, and are working to prepare and build the platform and pier. The Pentagon said it could provide somewhere to 2 million meals a day for Gaza residents. Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, told reporters that US in on track to have the system in place by the end of the month or early May. The actual construction of the pier had been on hold as US and international officials hammered out agreements for the collection and distribution of the aid. He said the U.S. has been making progress, and that Israel has agreed to provide security on the shore. (With inputs from agencies)

UN agency to help in aid distribution in Gaza by sea route, says US

IDF raids refugee camps in West Bank | Blasts rock military base in Iraq

Firmly opposing the proposed ban of TikTok in the US, Elon Musk argued that it suppresses freedom of speech and expression and goes against America's moral values and ethics.

“In my opinion, TikTok should not be banned in the USA, even though such a ban may benefit the 𝕏 platform,” Musk posted on X.

“Doing so would be contrary to freedom of speech and expression. It is not what America stands for.”

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In my opinion, TikTok should not be banned in the USA, even though such a ban may benefit the 𝕏 platform. 
 
Doing so would be contrary to freedom of speech and expression. It is not what America stands for.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1781387457193230338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Musk’s statement comes after the House passed the obstacle on the procedural aspect, which will enable a formal vote that might be conducted on the 6th of May, starting, at the latest, on Saturday, on the legislative package that will be used to deliver $95 billion to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan.

The proposal is finalised with a fourth set of bills.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tiktok-ban-has-no-fairness-to-speak-of-alleges-chinas-foreign-ministry-700321">TikTok ban: China fuming over bill is 'supremely ironic', says US envoy. Gives this reason</a>

The Tesla CEO in the past also had taken a stand against TikTok's ban in the US.

Last month, Musk said that the legislation extends beyond concerns about national security over a Chinese-owned app, he said in a post on X.

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This law is not just about TikTok, it is about censorship and government control! 
 
If it were just about TikTok, it would only cite “foreign control” as the issue, but it does not. <a href="https://t.co/3hpePCE1nS">https://t.co/3hpePCE1nS</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1767540775762411525?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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“This law is not just about TikTok, it is about censorship and government control! If it were just about TikTok, it would only cite “foreign control” as the issue, but it does not,” he argued in the post.

<h2>Why House is considering a ban on TikTok</h2>

The Lawmakers worry that TikTok, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, could be used by the Chinese government to collect user data or spread propaganda. They fear this data could be used for spying or to manipulate American public opinion.

The House approved a resolution, which got support and was aimed to stop the functioning of TikTok in the US.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-300000-america-jobs-at-risk-tiktok-ceo-reacts-to-us-house-vote-on-app-699894">Over 300,000 American jobs at risk: TikTok CEO asks users to oppose bill aiming to ban app</a>

The proposed TikTok ban under the foreign investment review process gives President Biden significantly more time to act. The new provision allows for a total of 270 days, with an optional 90-day extension, compared to the initial bill's 180-day deadline.

(With inputs from agencies)

Firmly opposing the proposed ban of TikTok in the US, Elon Musk argued that it suppresses freedom of speech and expression and goes against America's moral values and ethics.

Firmly opposing the proposed ban of TikTok in the US, Elon Musk argued that it suppresses freedom of speech and expression and goes against America's moral values and ethics. “In my opinion, TikTok should not be banned in the USA, even though such a ban may benefit the 𝕏 platform,” Musk posted on X. “Doing so would be contrary to freedom of speech and expression. It is not what America stands for.” In my opinion, TikTok should not be banned in the USA, even though such a ban may benefit the 𝕏 platform. Doing so would be contrary to freedom of speech and expression. It is not what America stands for. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 19, 2024 × Musk’s statement comes after the House passed the obstacle on the procedural aspect, which will enable a formal vote that might be conducted on the 6th of May, starting, at the latest, on Saturday, on the legislative package that will be used to deliver $95 billion to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. The proposal is finalised with a fourth set of bills. Also read: TikTok ban: China fuming over bill is 'supremely ironic', says US envoy. Gives this reason The Tesla CEO in the past also had taken a stand against TikTok's ban in the US. Last month, Musk said that the legislation extends beyond concerns about national security over a Chinese-owned app, he said in a post on X. This law is not just about TikTok, it is about censorship and government control! If it were just about TikTok, it would only cite “foreign control” as the issue, but it does not. https://t.co/3hpePCE1nS — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 12, 2024 × “This law is not just about TikTok, it is about censorship and government control! If it were just about TikTok, it would only cite “foreign control” as the issue, but it does not,” he argued in the post. Why House is considering a ban on TikTok The Lawmakers worry that TikTok, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, could be used by the Chinese government to collect user data or spread propaganda. They fear this data could be used for spying or to manipulate American public opinion. The House approved a resolution, which got support and was aimed to stop the functioning of TikTok in the US. Also read | Over 300,000 American jobs at risk: TikTok CEO asks users to oppose bill aiming to ban app The proposed TikTok ban under the foreign investment review process gives President Biden significantly more time to act. The new provision allows for a total of 270 days, with an optional 90-day extension, compared to the initial bill's 180-day deadline. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk opposes TikTok ban in US, citing free speech

The United States informed the government of Niger that it has agreed to its request to withdraw US troops from the West African country, said three US officials.

In a meeting on Friday (April 19), Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Nigerian Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine committed to initiate conversations in Niamey to begin planning an orderly and responsible withdrawal of US troops from Niger.

Over 1,000 US troops were stationed in Niger last year, utilising two bases. One notable base was a $100 million drone facility, Air Base 201, located near Agadez in central Niger.

Since 2018, the base has been used to target Islamic State militants and Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen, an al Qaeda affiliate, in the Sahel region.

Last year, Niger's army seized power in a coup. Until the coup, Niger had remained a key security partner of the United States and France.

Niger's recent leadership change has led to a significant shift in alliances. The new governments, like that of neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, have&nbsp;severed military ties with Western nations like the US and France.&nbsp;

They've also withdrawn from the regional economic bloc ECOWAS and pursued closer relations with Russia. These developments prompted the US to agree to Niger's request for troop withdrawal.&nbsp;

Last month, Niger's ruling junta said it revoked with immediate effect a military accord that allowed military personnel and civilian staff from the US Department of Defense on its soil.

The Pentagon had said thereafter it was seeking clarification about the way ahead. It added the US&nbsp;government had "direct and frank" conversations in Niger ahead of the junta's announcement, and was continuing to communicate with Niger's ruling military council.

Hundreds took to the streets of Niger's capital last week to demand the departure of U.S. troops, after the ruling junta further shifted its strategy by ending the military accord with the United States and welcoming Russian military instructors.

Eight coups in West and Central Africa over four years, including in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, have prompted growing concerns over democracy backsliding in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States informed the government of Niger that it has agreed to its request to withdraw US troops from the West African country, said three US officials.

The United States informed the government of Niger that it has agreed to its request to withdraw US troops from the West African country, said three US officials. In a meeting on Friday (April 19), Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Nigerian Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine committed to initiate conversations in Niamey to begin planning an orderly and responsible withdrawal of US troops from Niger. Over 1,000 US troops were stationed in Niger last year, utilising two bases. One notable base was a $100 million drone facility, Air Base 201, located near Agadez in central Niger. Since 2018, the base has been used to target Islamic State militants and Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen, an al Qaeda affiliate, in the Sahel region. Last year, Niger's army seized power in a coup. Until the coup, Niger had remained a key security partner of the United States and France. Niger's recent leadership change has led to a significant shift in alliances. The new governments, like that of neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, have severed military ties with Western nations like the US and France. They've also withdrawn from the regional economic bloc ECOWAS and pursued closer relations with Russia. These developments prompted the US to agree to Niger's request for troop withdrawal. Last month, Niger's ruling junta said it revoked with immediate effect a military accord that allowed military personnel and civilian staff from the US Department of Defense on its soil. The Pentagon had said thereafter it was seeking clarification about the way ahead. It added the US government had "direct and frank" conversations in Niger ahead of the junta's announcement, and was continuing to communicate with Niger's ruling military council. Hundreds took to the streets of Niger's capital last week to demand the departure of U.S. troops, after the ruling junta further shifted its strategy by ending the military accord with the United States and welcoming Russian military instructors. Eight coups in West and Central Africa over four years, including in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, have prompted growing concerns over democracy backsliding in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

US agrees to withdraw troops from Niger amid protests

A jury is scheduled to listen to opening statements on Monday (April 22), regarding whether Donald Trump falsified bank records as part of his attempt to conceal an alleged affair from voters during the 2016 election.

Donald Trump’s historic trial began this week with a prompt but emotional jury selection.

Several prospective jurors became emotional as they considered whether they could handle the trial of a former president, particularly one renowned for his criticism of the US justice system and currently the presumed Republican nominee in the upcoming presidential election.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hush-money-trial-full-jury-six-alternates-selected-person-reportedly-on-fire-outside-ny-courthouse-713188">Trump hush money trial: Man sets himself on fire outside NY court</a>

New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan expressed gratitude to participants for their bravery as several shared painful details of their pasts in front of reporters during the jury screening process.

He also admired others for their integrity in saying that Trump’s rhetoric would make it hard for them to judge Trump fairly.

Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass informed potential jurors that the prosecution intended to reveal not only bank fraud but also a conspiracy to engage in election fraud and mislead the American voters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-in-three-us-adults-think-trump-did-something-illegal-as-historic-hush-money-trial-gets-underway-712042">Only one-third of Americans think Trump did something illegal as hush money trial gets underway</a>

Trump evaded campaign finance regulations by channeling a $130,000 payment to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels through Michael Cohen, his attorney and confidant, subsequently falsely claiming that the funds allocated for reimbursing Cohen were for legal services.

Cohen has admitted&nbsp;he&nbsp;lied to Congress as well as federal tax and election officials.

On Friday (April 19), before leaving court the jurors were asked not to read, listen to or watch anything about the case, or discuss it with anyone.&nbsp;

Trump is the first-ever former US president to go on trial for criminal charges.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-hush-money-trial-court-selects-12-jurors-an-alternate-announces-we-have-our-jury-712751">Trump's hush money trial: Court selects 12 jurors &amp; an alternate, announces 'we have our jury'</a>

However, the former president has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A jury is scheduled to listen to opening statements on Monday (April 22), regarding whether Donald Trump falsified bank records as part of his attempt to conceal an alleged affair from voters during the 2016 election.

A jury is scheduled to listen to opening statements on Monday (April 22), regarding whether Donald Trump falsified bank records as part of his attempt to conceal an alleged affair from voters during the 2016 election. Donald Trump’s historic trial began this week with a prompt but emotional jury selection. Several prospective jurors became emotional as they considered whether they could handle the trial of a former president, particularly one renowned for his criticism of the US justice system and currently the presumed Republican nominee in the upcoming presidential election. Also read: Trump hush money trial: Man sets himself on fire outside NY court New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan expressed gratitude to participants for their bravery as several shared painful details of their pasts in front of reporters during the jury screening process. He also admired others for their integrity in saying that Trump’s rhetoric would make it hard for them to judge Trump fairly. Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass informed potential jurors that the prosecution intended to reveal not only bank fraud but also a conspiracy to engage in election fraud and mislead the American voters. Also Read | Only one-third of Americans think Trump did something illegal as hush money trial gets underway Trump evaded campaign finance regulations by channeling a $130,000 payment to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels through Michael Cohen, his attorney and confidant, subsequently falsely claiming that the funds allocated for reimbursing Cohen were for legal services. Cohen has admitted he lied to Congress as well as federal tax and election officials. On Friday (April 19), before leaving court the jurors were asked not to read, listen to or watch anything about the case, or discuss it with anyone. Trump is the first-ever former US president to go on trial for criminal charges. Also Read | Trump's hush money trial: Court selects 12 jurors & an alternate, announces 'we have our jury' However, the former president has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump's hush money trial opening statements set for Monday

The number of MPs who have said they will leave Parliament at the next general election has reached 100. 63 in all are Tories, and they include former prime minister Theresa May. Watch in this report for more!

UK: 100 MPs to stand down at the next general election

China has embarked on a massive project to save its cultural heritage in the city of Xinjiang. The country is looking to carry out major renovation activity in Kashgar's historic city which lies in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Watch in for more details!

China: Regulation to protect Kashgar's old city

North Korea has conducted a test of a “super-large warhead” for its "strategic" cruise missiles as well as a test-firing of a new anti-aircraft missile. Watch in for more details!

North Korea conducts cruise missile warhead test

The chief of US space agency NASA has told lawmakers in Washington that China is using civilian programmes to hide military objectives in space. Watch to know more.

US, China accuse each other of 'militarising space'

A full jury of 12 people has been seated in the criminal case against Donald Trump, bringing the first criminal trial of a former president a significant step closer to the beginning. Watch in for more details!

Trump Hush Money Trial: First week of Trump's criminal trial ends with full jury selected

Probe has revealed that the death of the Indian student in US in the month of March was possible due to a macabre online game of dares called the "Blue Whale", which has also been called the "suicide game".

Indian student's death in the US being linked to deadly Blue Whale game

Against the backdrop of North Korea is increasing its war Readiness and boosting its military Arsenal South Korea and US held air drills in a display of strength and unity. Watch in for more details!

US, South Korea practice ways to detect, counter enemy threat

AI-powered robots can automate routine tasks such as picking, packing, and sorting items, reducing manual labour and increasing speed. Watch to know more.

AI-powered warehouse Robot: Tech revolutionising warehouse logistics

Watch in the top headlines of the hour: - US House advances $95 billion aid package - Blasts rock military base in Iraq - Trump Hush Money Trial: Final jury named - North Korea heads cruise missile warhead

US House advances $95 billion aid package | Blasts rock military base in Iraq

The final jurors were seated Friday in Donald Trump’s hush money trial, and an appellate judge rejected the former president’s latest bid to halt the case as a hectic day in court set the stage for opening statements to begin Monday.

Final Jury seated for Donald Trump's hush money case trial

The government of Burundi and the United Nations have launched an appeal for financial aid to cope with the "devastating effects" of months of relentless rainfall that has displaced nearly 100,000 people.

Burundi floods, rains displace 100,000 people

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