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A day after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel will 'make its own decisions' when responding to Iran's weekend airstrikes, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, state media reported. The cause is currently unknown but airspace over several Iranian cities was closed shortly after the reported explosion.

Iran subsequently said that it shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now".

Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X.

"Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported.&nbsp;Officials at Tehran's Khomeini International Airport&nbsp;urged all passengers to evacuate the airport due to the cancellation of all flights, a video shared by Iranian media showed.

The province of Isfahan is home to a large air base, a major missile production complex and reportedly several nuclear sites.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-attacks-israel-in-numbers-what-makes-it-most-sophisticated-attack-on-israel-since-oct-7-711108">Iran attacks Israel: In numbers, what makes it most sophisticated attack on Israel since Oct 7</a>

The explosion comes after Iran's unprecedented missile-and-drone attack on Israel last weekend.

There were also near-simultaneous reports of blasts in Iraq and southern Syria.

Also watch |&nbsp;Iran attacks Israel: Iran warns it may review its 'nuclear doctrine'

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A number of Western publications, including the BBC and ABC News reported that US officials have confirmed that an Israeli missile has struck Iran, a claim that could not be immediately verified at the time of filing this report.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

Earlier, Iranian foreign minister&nbsp;Hossein Amir-Abdollahian warned Israel on Thursday (April 18)&nbsp;against taking any military action against Iran.

"In case the Israeli regime embarks on adventurism again and takes action against the interests of Iran, the next response from us will be immediate and at a maximum level," Amir-Abdollahian told CNN.

The Iranian leader&nbsp;said Iran sincerely hoped Israel would not repeat "the previous egregious error," in a purported reference to an alleged Israeli strike on Iran's embassy complex in Damascus, Syria.

"We have announced to the White House, sent a message to the White House and Washington DC, the administration in which we've reiterated that if the Israeli regime commits the great error once again our response will be decisive, definitive and regretful for them," Amir-Abdollahian said from the Iranian Permanent Mission to United Nations.

Meanwhile, Iran's local media said that nuclear facilities in Isfahan were "completely secure" after the explosions.

"Nuclear facilities in Isfahan province are completely secure," Tasnim news agency reported quoting "reliable sources".

A day after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel will 'make its own decisions' when responding to Iran's weekend airstrikes, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, state media reported.

A day after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel will 'make its own decisions' when responding to Iran's weekend airstrikes, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, state media reported. The cause is currently unknown but airspace over several Iranian cities was closed shortly after the reported explosion. Iran subsequently said that it shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now". Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X. "Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported. Officials at Tehran's Khomeini International Airport urged all passengers to evacuate the airport due to the cancellation of all flights, a video shared by Iranian media showed. The province of Isfahan is home to a large air base, a major missile production complex and reportedly several nuclear sites. Also read | Iran attacks Israel: In numbers, what makes it most sophisticated attack on Israel since Oct 7 The explosion comes after Iran's unprecedented missile-and-drone attack on Israel last weekend. There were also near-simultaneous reports of blasts in Iraq and southern Syria. Also watch | Iran attacks Israel: Iran warns it may review its 'nuclear doctrine' × A number of Western publications, including the BBC and ABC News reported that US officials have confirmed that an Israeli missile has struck Iran, a claim that could not be immediately verified at the time of filing this report. What does it mean? Earlier, Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian warned Israel on Thursday (April 18) against taking any military action against Iran. "In case the Israeli regime embarks on adventurism again and takes action against the interests of Iran, the next response from us will be immediate and at a maximum level," Amir-Abdollahian told CNN. The Iranian leader said Iran sincerely hoped Israel would not repeat "the previous egregious error," in a purported reference to an alleged Israeli strike on Iran's embassy complex in Damascus, Syria. "We have announced to the White House, sent a message to the White House and Washington DC, the administration in which we've reiterated that if the Israeli regime commits the great error once again our response will be decisive, definitive and regretful for them," Amir-Abdollahian said from the Iranian Permanent Mission to United Nations. Meanwhile, Iran's local media said that nuclear facilities in Isfahan were "completely secure" after the explosions. "Nuclear facilities in Isfahan province are completely secure," Tasnim news agency reported quoting "reliable sources".

Iran says 'no missile attack for now' amid reports of strike by Israel in its territory

United States President Joe Biden took the world by surprise and left the White House in the lurch after claiming that his uncle was most likely eaten by cannibals in Papua New Guinea during World War II.

United States President Joe Biden took the world by surprise and left the White House in the lurch after claiming that his uncle was most likely eaten by cannibals in Papua New Guinea during World War II. As reported by Western media outlets, 81-year-old Biden said that his uncle's plane was shot down over Papua New Guinea during World War II. He further emphasised how this place is known for cannibals. The statement was made by Biden while he was paying tribute to his uncle Ambrose Finnegan. Biden said his body was never found and suspected that it was eaten by cannibals. Also Read: 'Committed to working with Pakistan,' US President Joe Biden writes to Pakistan PM for the first time “My uncle, they called him – Ambrose, they called him Bosie, and he became an Army Air Corps, before the Air Force came along, he flew those single-engine planes as a reconnaissance over war zones. And he got shot down in New Guinea, and they never found the body because there used to be a lot of cannibals – for real – in that part of New Guinea,” said the president. White House reacts to President Biden's cannibal remarks Clarifying Biden's statement, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Thursday (April 18) accepted that Finnegan died after his plane crashed into the Pacific Ocean amid World War II, which implied that he was not eaten by cannibals. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Jean-Pierre said, “You saw the president, he was incredibly proud of his uncle’s service in uniform. You saw him at the war memorial. It was incredibly emotional and important to him." “You saw him respond to all of you when asked about the moment yesterday and his uncle, who lost his life when the military aircraft he was on crashed in the Pacific after taking off near New Guinea," the spokesperson added. What did the defence report say about Biden's uncle? The claims made by Biden also fail to match the account published by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. As per the report, “For unknown reasons, this plane was forced to ditch in the ocean off the north coast of New Guinea. Both engines failed at low altitude, and the aircraft's nose hit the water hard.” Watch: US-China ties: Joe Biden calls China 'xenophobic' while China calls out US' hypocrisy The report stated that no trace of lost crew members and missing aircraft was found by an aerial search party. “Second Lieutenant Ambrose J. Finnegan entered the U.S. Army Air Forces from Pennsylvania and served in Headquarters, Fifth Air Force. He was the passenger on this Havoc when it was lost. He has not been associated with any remains recovered from the area after the war and is still unaccounted-for. Today, Second Lieutenant Finnegan is memorialized on the Walls of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery in the Philippines,” read the report. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden raises eyebrows by claiming cannibals 'ate' his uncle, White House fact-checks

In a first-of-its-kind class-action lawsuit, 60 Japanese doctors are suing Google accusing its Google Maps over negative reviews about their clinics.

The doctors are seeking a total of 1.4 million yen ($9,000) in damages, arguing that Google should be held responsible for failing to address these reviews.

The doctors sued the company on Thursday (Apr 18), saying they are powerless to reply to, or refute, reputation-damaging reviews because of their obligation to patient confidentiality.

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, says 'we have our jury'</a>

"People who are posting online can say anything anonymously, even if it is insult or verbal abuse", one of the doctors told reporters.

"It's like I'm a punching bag", he said under condition of anonymity.

In this landmark case for Japan, the 60 doctors are suing Google at the Tokyo District Court.

Lawyer Yuichi Nakazawa, who is representing the doctors, said of the difficulty of removing such reviews despite their ease of posting.

He argued that it creates a stressful work environment for doctors, who fear receiving 'horrible reviews.'

"This can lead to doctors doing their job under the constant fear of receiving horrible reviews", the lawyer said.

The plaintiffs argue that the current system on Google Maps prioritises a professional, illness-centered approach over patient satisfaction and addressing their concerns.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/natures-grand-theatre-volcanic-eruption-and-northern-lights-create-stunning-visuals-in-iceland-watch-712812">Nature’s grand theatre: Volcanic eruption and northern lights create stunning visuals in Iceland. Watch!</a>

If this situation remains unaddressed, doctors may find themselves cautious to be firm and refuse medically unnecessary examinations or medicines requested by patients," Nakazawa warned.

That ultimately does society a disservice, he argued.

According to the complaint, Google Maps is so widely used in Japan that it serves as infrastructure for daily life.

So Google should be able to identify the shortcomings to medical businesses if unfair reviews are left unaddressed, the plaintiffs argued.

Google said it is making efforts to reduce incorrect and misleading content on Google Maps, as per a report in AFP.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millions-at-risk-major-chinese-cities-sinking-due-to-land-subsidence-finds-study-712765">Millions at risk: Major Chinese cities sinking under their own weight, finds study</a>

"With grouping of human operators and computers, we are protecting the profile of companies around the clock, and removing unjust reviews", Google said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a first-of-its-kind class-action lawsuit, 60 Japanese doctors are suing Google accusing its Google Maps over negative reviews about their clinics. The doctors are seeking a total of 1.

In a first-of-its-kind class-action lawsuit, 60 Japanese doctors are suing Google accusing its Google Maps over negative reviews about their clinics. The doctors are seeking a total of 1.4 million yen ($9,000) in damages, arguing that Google should be held responsible for failing to address these reviews. The doctors sued the company on Thursday (Apr 18), saying they are powerless to reply to, or refute, reputation-damaging reviews because of their obligation to patient confidentiality. Also read: Trump's hush money trial: Court selects 12 jurors, says 'we have our jury' "People who are posting online can say anything anonymously, even if it is insult or verbal abuse", one of the doctors told reporters. "It's like I'm a punching bag", he said under condition of anonymity. In this landmark case for Japan, the 60 doctors are suing Google at the Tokyo District Court. Lawyer Yuichi Nakazawa, who is representing the doctors, said of the difficulty of removing such reviews despite their ease of posting. He argued that it creates a stressful work environment for doctors, who fear receiving 'horrible reviews.' "This can lead to doctors doing their job under the constant fear of receiving horrible reviews", the lawyer said. The plaintiffs argue that the current system on Google Maps prioritises a professional, illness-centered approach over patient satisfaction and addressing their concerns. Also read: Nature’s grand theatre: Volcanic eruption and northern lights create stunning visuals in Iceland. Watch! If this situation remains unaddressed, doctors may find themselves cautious to be firm and refuse medically unnecessary examinations or medicines requested by patients," Nakazawa warned. That ultimately does society a disservice, he argued. According to the complaint, Google Maps is so widely used in Japan that it serves as infrastructure for daily life. So Google should be able to identify the shortcomings to medical businesses if unfair reviews are left unaddressed, the plaintiffs argued. Google said it is making efforts to reduce incorrect and misleading content on Google Maps, as per a report in AFP. Also read: Millions at risk: Major Chinese cities sinking under their own weight, finds study "With grouping of human operators and computers, we are protecting the profile of companies around the clock, and removing unjust reviews", Google said. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan doctors sue Google Maps over unfair reviews in first such class action

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - Israel missiles hit Iran, says US media - India's massive election kicks off - Phase 1: 166 mn voters, 1625 candidates & 102 seats - Pakistan: Suicide attack in Karachi - Tehran airport resumes flights - Blasts at Isfahan, nuclear plants safe

Israel missiles hit Iran, says US media | Tehran airport resumes flights

As Dubai experienced unprecedented weather events in the last few days, a new video of its sky going green has taken the internet by storm.

The timelapse video shows the sky going hazy green from grey, which some social media users said was an indication of an imminent rainstorm.

The 23-second clip is captioned on social media X by a user as “sky turns green In Dubai! Actual footage from the storm in Dubai today.”

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Sky Turns GREEN In DUBAI! 
 
Actual footage from the storm in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dubai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dubai</a> today. <a href="https://t.co/x8kQe85Lto">pic.twitter.com/x8kQe85Lto</a>
— Mister J. - مسٹر جے (@Angryman_J) <a href="https://twitter.com/Angryman_J/status/1780348671315288485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

“Actual footage from the storm in Dubai today. You can see the sky turn GREEN!!!” shared another user.

A third wrote, “Heavy rain in Dubai right now, live footage sky turns green the whole city looks like dusty #Dubai #rain.”

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Heavy rain in Dubai right now , live footage sky turns green the whole city looks like dusty<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dubai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dubai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rain</a> 
<a href="https://t.co/mzfeYjNuE0">pic.twitter.com/mzfeYjNuE0</a>
— farheenkhan (@farheenkhansam2) <a href="https://twitter.com/farheenkhansam2/status/1780362915469832674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

“That's supercell, tornado colour. I've seen it in the deserts of southwestern United States,” said another user.

<h2>What causes change in hue?</h2>

In a report by the University Of Wisconsin–Madison research meteorologist Scott Bachmeier said, “When blue objects are illuminated with red light, they appear green. Green is significant, but not proof that a tornado is on the way. A green cloud will only occur if the cloud is very deep, which generally only occurs in thunderstorm clouds.”

“Those are the kind of storms that may produce hail and tornadoes,” added the report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dubai-floods-experts-believe-cloud-seeding-is-not-behind-the-heavy-rainfall-712458">Also read:&nbsp;Dubai floods: Experts dismiss cloud seeding as reason for extreme rainfall</a>

<h2>Several flights cancelled in Dubai</h2>

Dubai International Airport faced chaos on Tuesday (April 16), as heavy rains caused flash floods that inundated the runway.&nbsp;

Dramatic footage captured a Flydubai Boeing 737 wading through the flash floods, highlighting the severity of the storm. The downpour forced multiple flight cancellations.

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Dubai Airport right now 
<a href="https://t.co/FX992PQvAU">pic.twitter.com/FX992PQvAU</a>
— Science girl (@gunsnrosesgirl3) <a href="https://twitter.com/gunsnrosesgirl3/status/1780307713592897542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Planes arriving at the Dubai airport were also temporarily diverted on Tuesday evening to other locations until weather conditions improved, while the departures continued to operate.

<h2>What caused the heavy rainfall?</h2>

Experts said that the heavy rainfall in the UAE was likely due to a normal weather system that was exacerbated by climate change. Esraa Alnaqbi, a senior forecaster at the UAE government's National Centre of Meteorology, told the news agency Reuters that a low-pressure system in the upper atmosphere, coupled with low pressure at the surface had acted like a pressure 'squeeze' on the air.

Alnaqabi said that the squeeze, intensified by the contrast between warmer temperatures at ground level and colder temperatures higher up, and created the conditions for the powerful thunderstorm

(With inputs from agencies)

As Dubai experienced unprecedented weather events in the last few days, a new video of its sky going green has taken the internet by storm. The timelapse video shows the sky going hazy green from grey, which some social media users said was an indication of an imminent rainstorm.

As Dubai experienced unprecedented weather events in the last few days, a new video of its sky going green has taken the internet by storm. The timelapse video shows the sky going hazy green from grey, which some social media users said was an indication of an imminent rainstorm. The 23-second clip is captioned on social media X by a user as “sky turns green In Dubai! Actual footage from the storm in Dubai today.” Sky Turns GREEN In DUBAI! Actual footage from the storm in #Dubai today. pic.twitter.com/x8kQe85Lto — Mister J. - مسٹر جے (@Angryman_J) April 16, 2024 × “Actual footage from the storm in Dubai today. You can see the sky turn GREEN!!!” shared another user. A third wrote, “Heavy rain in Dubai right now, live footage sky turns green the whole city looks like dusty #Dubai #rain.” Heavy rain in Dubai right now , live footage sky turns green the whole city looks like dusty#Dubai #rain pic.twitter.com/mzfeYjNuE0 — farheenkhan (@farheenkhansam2) April 16, 2024 × “That's supercell, tornado colour. I've seen it in the deserts of southwestern United States,” said another user. What causes change in hue? In a report by the University Of Wisconsin–Madison research meteorologist Scott Bachmeier said, “When blue objects are illuminated with red light, they appear green. Green is significant, but not proof that a tornado is on the way. A green cloud will only occur if the cloud is very deep, which generally only occurs in thunderstorm clouds.” “Those are the kind of storms that may produce hail and tornadoes,” added the report. Also read: Dubai floods: Experts dismiss cloud seeding as reason for extreme rainfall Several flights cancelled in Dubai Dubai International Airport faced chaos on Tuesday (April 16), as heavy rains caused flash floods that inundated the runway. Dramatic footage captured a Flydubai Boeing 737 wading through the flash floods, highlighting the severity of the storm. The downpour forced multiple flight cancellations. Dubai Airport right now pic.twitter.com/FX992PQvAU — Science girl (@gunsnrosesgirl3) April 16, 2024 × Planes arriving at the Dubai airport were also temporarily diverted on Tuesday evening to other locations until weather conditions improved, while the departures continued to operate. What caused the heavy rainfall? Experts said that the heavy rainfall in the UAE was likely due to a normal weather system that was exacerbated by climate change. Esraa Alnaqbi, a senior forecaster at the UAE government's National Centre of Meteorology, told the news agency Reuters that a low-pressure system in the upper atmosphere, coupled with low pressure at the surface had acted like a pressure 'squeeze' on the air. Alnaqabi said that the squeeze, intensified by the contrast between warmer temperatures at ground level and colder temperatures higher up, and created the conditions for the powerful thunderstorm (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Dubai sky turns green, internet calls it 'indication of impending storm'

Microsoft said on Wednesday it found Russian online campaigns aimed at influencing the outcome of the upcoming US presidential election. Watch in for more details!

Microsoft says Russian influence operations targeting US elections

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

Robot transforming warehouse jobs

The UNSC is set to vote on the Palestinian bid for full UN membership, a move that Israel ally the United States is expected to block because it would effectively recognize a Palestinian state.

Palestinian bid for UN membership set for Security Council vote

A Polish man has been charged for allegedly taking part in a Russian plot aimed at assassinating Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, as per the authorities in Ukraine and Poland.

A Polish man has been charged for allegedly taking part in a Russian plot aimed at assassinating Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, as per the authorities in Ukraine and Poland. According to the Polish authorities, the Polish man named Paweł K was tasked “to help, among other things, in planning by Russian special services a possible attack on the life of the head of a foreign state – President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky,” as per a statement on Thursday (April 18). According to the prosecutors, the man was willing to provide information to Russian spies regarding the security details at Rzeszow-Jasionka airport in southeastern Poland, which is nearly 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Poland's border with Ukraine. Also Read: Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky signs army mobilisation bill into law It is known that Zelensky uses the airport when departing on foreign trips since it is one of the airports closest to the Ukrainian border. Ukrainian prosecutor general Andriy Kostin said that the suspect allegedly "proactively established contact" with Russian military command representatives and "informed them of his readiness to cooperate" with the Russian Federation's foreign military intelligence agency. Polish man faces eight years imprisonment if convicted According to the office, the suspect, if convicted, can face up to eight years in prison. "This case underscores the persistent threat Russia poses not only to Ukraine and Ukrainians but to the entire free world," said Kostin. "The Kremlin's criminal regime is constantly trying to undermine European and global security. It organises and carries out sabotage operations on the territory of other sovereign states," he added. The news of a Polish man working as a spy came just hours after German police stated that two suspected Russian agents were arrested by them in the Bavarian town of Bayreuth. Watch: Ukraine war: Zelensky condemns Iran, says Ukraine needs help too The two individuals, who were identified as German-Russian nationals, faced accusations of plotting sabotage attacks and also being involved in an explosive detonation, as per a statement by the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office in Karlsruhe. In April 2023, Zelensky visited Poland and was accorded a warm welcome by its citizens as well as President Andrzej Duda. Poland is located on the western border of Ukraine. After the Russian invasion, Poland took many refugees who had fled from Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination

In response to growing fears that Tehran’s unprecedented strike on Israel may spark a larger Middle East conflict, the United States and the United Kingdom imposed more sanctions on Iran on Thursday.

US, UK impose sanctions on Iran in response to its strike on Israel

Three Russians have achieved a world record by parachuting from the Earth's stratosphere to the North Pole. The mission also served as a test for a new prototype communications system designed for Arctic use, according to one of the organisers.

Mikhail Korniyenko, Alexander Lynnik, and Denis Yefremov leapt from an Ilyushin-76 plane at an altitude of 10,500 metres (34,450 feet) and spent approximately two and a half minutes in freefall before using&nbsp;their parachutes 1,000 metres&nbsp;above the ground.

The entire descent was captured in a breath-taking video. Despite wearing heated masks, all three suffered frostbite on their cheeks due to the extreme cold, which felt like -70 degrees Celsius (-94 degrees Fahrenheit) as they plummeted at speeds exceeding 300 km/h.

They touched down near Russia's Barneo polar base, where Tsaplin mentioned they managed to activate a server using diesel generators and establish a satellite connection. The equipment had been airdropped earlier from a lower altitude.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-arrests-man-on-charges-of-spying-for-russia-and-plotting-zelenskys-assassination-712839">Also read |&nbsp;Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination</a>

Communication in the Arctic is expected to become increasingly significant as countries like Russia, the United States, and China vie for resources, trade routes, and military advantages.

Tsaplin noted that the Russians were able to transmit data through an experimental system, although he admitted that, at this stage, it lacked the capabilities of US-based Iridium Communications Inc., which offers coverage from both of Earth's poles.

"Of course, our solution is a prototype, but still we managed, from our server, to connect with our satellite and to transfer data," said Tsaplin, who is managing partner and co-founder of Russian hosting provider RUVDS.

"Sure, it's not Iridium just yet, but we made some small steps in that direction and that was actually the task - to see how realistic it would be to build a low-cost solution in order to get access from a computer to a satellite," he told Reuters.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: 'Ukraine could lose war', says CIA director

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-could-lose-war-says-cia-director-713096/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Three Russians have achieved a world record by parachuting from the Earth's stratosphere to the North Pole. The mission also served as a test for a new prototype communications system designed for Arctic use, according to one of the organisers.

Three Russians have achieved a world record by parachuting from the Earth's stratosphere to the North Pole. The mission also served as a test for a new prototype communications system designed for Arctic use, according to one of the organisers. Mikhail Korniyenko, Alexander Lynnik, and Denis Yefremov leapt from an Ilyushin-76 plane at an altitude of 10,500 metres (34,450 feet) and spent approximately two and a half minutes in freefall before using their parachutes 1,000 metres above the ground. The entire descent was captured in a breath-taking video. Despite wearing heated masks, all three suffered frostbite on their cheeks due to the extreme cold, which felt like -70 degrees Celsius (-94 degrees Fahrenheit) as they plummeted at speeds exceeding 300 km/h. They touched down near Russia's Barneo polar base, where Tsaplin mentioned they managed to activate a server using diesel generators and establish a satellite connection. The equipment had been airdropped earlier from a lower altitude. Also read | Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination Communication in the Arctic is expected to become increasingly significant as countries like Russia, the United States, and China vie for resources, trade routes, and military advantages. Tsaplin noted that the Russians were able to transmit data through an experimental system, although he admitted that, at this stage, it lacked the capabilities of US-based Iridium Communications Inc., which offers coverage from both of Earth's poles. "Of course, our solution is a prototype, but still we managed, from our server, to connect with our satellite and to transfer data," said Tsaplin, who is managing partner and co-founder of Russian hosting provider RUVDS. "Sure, it's not Iridium just yet, but we made some small steps in that direction and that was actually the task - to see how realistic it would be to build a low-cost solution in order to get access from a computer to a satellite," he told Reuters. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: 'Ukraine could lose war', says CIA director (With inputs from agencies)

3 Russians parachute from Stratosphere to North Pole, set world record

In the latest, voting for phase 1 for Lok Sabha elections has concluded.&nbsp;The final results will be announced on June 4. In other news,&nbsp;French police arrested a man in Paris who threatened to blow himself up&nbsp;at the Iranian consulate. Separately, Tesla has announced a 10 percent staff reduction globally to aid in its growth.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-live-voting-up-rajasthan-bihar-mp-maharashtra-tamil-nadu-nagaland-sikkim-mizoram-712699">Lok Sabha Election 2024 LIVE: 60% voter turnout in phase 1 till 7pm</a>

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The&nbsp;Indian general election began with voting taking place in 102 constituencies on Friday (Apr 19). The final results will be announced on June 4.&nbsp;

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United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel&nbsp;launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran.

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French police on Friday (Apr 19) arrested a man in Paris who had threatened to blow himself up at the Iranian consulate, reported Reuters.

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For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used&nbsp;for launching cruise missiles into its territory.

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Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 19) reserved the order on a plea moved by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seeking direction to Jail Authorities to administer insulin.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-iran-not-planning-retaliation-against-israel-after-attack-near-isfahan-713015">West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan</a>

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Iran is not planning any retaliation against Israel after Friday (Apr 19) attacks, a top Iranian official was quoted by Reuters as saying.

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United States President Joe Biden took the world by surprise and left the White House in the lurch after claiming that his uncle&nbsp;was most likely eaten&nbsp;by cannibals in&nbsp;Papua New Guinea&nbsp;during World War II.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-countries-to-give-more-air-defence-systems-to-ukraine-says-stoltenberg-713126">NATO countries to give more air defence systems to Ukraine, says Stoltenberg</a>

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NATO allies, on Friday (Apr 19) agreed to provide Ukraine with additional air defence systems, said the alliance’s chief Jens Stoltenberg after a special meeting of defence ministers of the member countries, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-teen-dies-of-heart-attack-after-lockdown-amid-knife-attack-at-nearby-school-713111">French teen dies of heart attack after lockdown amid knife attack at nearby school</a>

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A 14-year-old girl passed away due to a heart attack after her school initiated a lockdown in response to a knife attack in a nearby primary school in eastern France, media reports said. A man reportedly stabbed two girls aged 7 and 11 outside a neighbouring primary school.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-layoffs-indian-woman-in-us-among-10-affected-calls-the-process-distressing-713055">Tesla layoffs: Indian woman in US among 10% affected, calls the process 'distressing'</a>

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An Indian woman in the US shared on LinkedIn how she was suddenly laid off by Tesla, where she worked as a Business Process Analyst. She mentioned being one of the 10 per cent&nbsp;of employees let go this week and described the experience as "disheartening and distressing." She asked for help finding her next job.

In the latest, voting for phase 1 for Lok Sabha elections has concluded. The final results will be announced on June 4. In other news, French police arrested a man in Paris who threatened to blow himself up at the Iranian consulate.

In the latest, voting for phase 1 for Lok Sabha elections has concluded. The final results will be announced on June 4. In other news, French police arrested a man in Paris who threatened to blow himself up at the Iranian consulate. Separately, Tesla has announced a 10 percent staff reduction globally to aid in its growth. Click on the headlines to read more. Lok Sabha Election 2024 LIVE: 60% voter turnout in phase 1 till 7pm The Indian general election began with voting taking place in 102 constituencies on Friday (Apr 19). The final results will be announced on June 4. US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ after Israel carries out retaliatory attacks against Iran United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran. French police arrest man after he threatens to blow himself up at Iranian consulate in Paris French police on Friday (Apr 19) arrested a man in Paris who had threatened to blow himself up at the Iranian consulate, reported Reuters. Ukraine’s strike sends Russian bomber into tailspin For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used for launching cruise missiles into its territory. Arvind Kejriwal health: Court reserves order on plea moved by Delhi CM Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 19) reserved the order on a plea moved by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seeking direction to Jail Authorities to administer insulin. West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan Iran is not planning any retaliation against Israel after Friday (Apr 19) attacks, a top Iranian official was quoted by Reuters as saying. Biden raises eyebrows by claiming cannibals 'ate' his uncle, White House fact-checks United States President Joe Biden took the world by surprise and left the White House in the lurch after claiming that his uncle was most likely eaten by cannibals in Papua New Guinea during World War II. NATO countries to give more air defence systems to Ukraine, says Stoltenberg NATO allies, on Friday (Apr 19) agreed to provide Ukraine with additional air defence systems, said the alliance’s chief Jens Stoltenberg after a special meeting of defence ministers of the member countries, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. French teen dies of heart attack after lockdown amid knife attack at nearby school A 14-year-old girl passed away due to a heart attack after her school initiated a lockdown in response to a knife attack in a nearby primary school in eastern France, media reports said. A man reportedly stabbed two girls aged 7 and 11 outside a neighbouring primary school. Tesla layoffs: Indian woman in US among 10% affected, calls the process 'distressing' An Indian woman in the US shared on LinkedIn how she was suddenly laid off by Tesla, where she worked as a Business Process Analyst. She mentioned being one of the 10 per cent of employees let go this week and described the experience as "disheartening and distressing." She asked for help finding her next job.

Top 10 world news: India concludes phase 1 of Lok Sabha polls; Arvind Kejriwal updates; and more

A day after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel will 'make its own decisions' when responding to Iran's weekend airstrikes, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, state media reported. The cause is currently unknown but airspace over several Iranian cities was closed shortly after the reported explosion.

West Asia in vortex of Iran & Israel tension; Iran suspends flights over Isfahan, Tehran & Shifaz

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