In the sign of the West's increasing reliance on India - the country's shipyards are becoming sort of a maintainance hub for foreign Navy assets in the Indo-Pacific region.

In a first, UK's warships dock at Chennai | West eyes India's Naval logistics hubs

The ongoing Israel-Gaza war is having implications way beyond the borders of the Palestinian territories. At the Pakistan's Institute of Business Administration, protests were witnessed on March 27 by a group of students against their recruiter Coca Cola.

Pakistan: Students stage walk-out at Institute of Business Administration against Coca-Cola

It's been a week since the terror attack rocked Moscow when gunmen killed 144 men women and children and wounded dozens at the Crocus City Hall in the outskirts of the Russian Capital. Residents of Moscow and neighbouring areas continue to pay condolences through flowers and toys at the memorial outside the concert venue.

Moscow Terror Attack | 144 killed, 80 injured in Moscow's Crocus Hall attack on Mar 22

As Easter approaches the world is gearing up for its annual chocolate Extravaganza with millions indulging in detectable that is delectable treats like Easter eggs and bunnies. However, lurking behind this sweet celebration is a looming crisis a global shortage of cacao. Watch to know more!

Easter chocolate consumption reaches record high

Several women have lately reported being assaulted in New York City. The incidents gained a lot of attention on TikTok after women posted pics, videos with bruises on their face, claiming someone punched them in the face.

Halley Kate, a TikTok influencer with more than 1 million followers, posted a video detailing her horrific experience of being randomly attacked. She described how the hit caused her to fall to the ground, resulting in a visible bump on her head.

On Wednesday (March 27) night, the NYPD acknowledged its awareness of a widely shared video in a statement. The accused Skiroky Stora, 40, was then taken into custody and charged with the attack.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-set-to-be-first-us-city-to-impose-15-congestion-fee-705964">New York set to be first US city to impose $15 congestion fee</a>

Halley Kate was walking down Chelsea's West 16th Street when she fell, according to police, after Stora smacked her in the head. Stora was walking his dog at the time of the attack, according to Kate's TikTok video. 
 
Authorities revealed that Stora had previously been accused of attacking other women.

Kate's video served as a catalyst for other women on TikTok to share their own experiences of random attacks. One such individual, Mikayla Toninato, posted a video on the same day, tagging Kate and recounting a similar incident that occurred to her.

"I was looking down at my phone, texting, and then, out of nowhere, this man just came up and hit me in the face," Toninato explained in the video.

It is unclear whether Toninato filed a police report or if the NYPD launched an investigation into the incident. 
 
Billionaire Elon Musk also raised concern on women being punched randomly by strangers in New York City.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/heres-why-narcissists-are-happier-in-their-lives-than-psychopaths-705811">Here's why narcissists are happier in their lives than psychopaths</a>

The Tesla CEO was reacting to a video Halley Kate, a TikTok user, who uploaded a video on Monday following one of the assaults currently under investigation by New York Police. In the video, Ms Kate, with 1.1 million followers on TikTok, said she was walking when a "man came up and punched me in the face". Many other women have shared similar stories of being unexpectedly punched while walking.

"Failure to prosecute crime in New York and many other US cities allows violent criminals to assault women at will! The governor had to call out the national guard just so people could ride the subway," Musk said while sharing a post on X.

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Failure to prosecute crime in New York (and many other US cities) allows violent criminals to assault women at will! 
 
The governor had to call out the national guard just so people could ride the subway. <a href="https://t.co/G6cx8X0GAc">https://t.co/G6cx8X0GAc</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1773312554858631342?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

Several women have lately reported being assaulted in New York City. The incidents gained a lot of attention on TikTok after women posted pics, videos with bruises on their face, claiming someone punched them in the face.

Several women have lately reported being assaulted in New York City. The incidents gained a lot of attention on TikTok after women posted pics, videos with bruises on their face, claiming someone punched them in the face. Halley Kate, a TikTok influencer with more than 1 million followers, posted a video detailing her horrific experience of being randomly attacked. She described how the hit caused her to fall to the ground, resulting in a visible bump on her head. On Wednesday (March 27) night, the NYPD acknowledged its awareness of a widely shared video in a statement. The accused Skiroky Stora, 40, was then taken into custody and charged with the attack. Also read: New York set to be first US city to impose $15 congestion fee Halley Kate was walking down Chelsea's West 16th Street when she fell, according to police, after Stora smacked her in the head. Stora was walking his dog at the time of the attack, according to Kate's TikTok video. Authorities revealed that Stora had previously been accused of attacking other women. Kate's video served as a catalyst for other women on TikTok to share their own experiences of random attacks. One such individual, Mikayla Toninato, posted a video on the same day, tagging Kate and recounting a similar incident that occurred to her. "I was looking down at my phone, texting, and then, out of nowhere, this man just came up and hit me in the face," Toninato explained in the video. It is unclear whether Toninato filed a police report or if the NYPD launched an investigation into the incident. Billionaire Elon Musk also raised concern on women being punched randomly by strangers in New York City. Also read: Here's why narcissists are happier in their lives than psychopaths The Tesla CEO was reacting to a video Halley Kate, a TikTok user, who uploaded a video on Monday following one of the assaults currently under investigation by New York Police. In the video, Ms Kate, with 1.1 million followers on TikTok, said she was walking when a "man came up and punched me in the face". Many other women have shared similar stories of being unexpectedly punched while walking. "Failure to prosecute crime in New York and many other US cities allows violent criminals to assault women at will! The governor had to call out the national guard just so people could ride the subway," Musk said while sharing a post on X. Failure to prosecute crime in New York (and many other US cities) allows violent criminals to assault women at will! The governor had to call out the national guard just so people could ride the subway. https://t.co/G6cx8X0GAc — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 28, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Women in NYC report being punched by strangers ‘out of nowhere’, Elon Musk reacts

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A hostage situation at a popular nightclub&nbsp;in eastern Netherlands' town&nbsp;Ede, about 76 km southeast of Amsterdam, ended after the Dutch police arrested a masked man. Several people were taken hostage by a man early on Saturday (March 30) who threatened to blow himself up, according to local media reports.

The Dutch authorities confirmed that three nightclub-goers were released as the authorities sent robotic equipment to configure the state of hostages inside the Ede cafe. The crisis ended after the last hostage was released and the masked man surrendered.&nbsp;
</section>

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Dozen of homes around the area were evacuated and the town centre was closed down. Trains to and from Ede were cancelled from the local schedule charts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The last hostage has just been released. One person has been arrested," a police statement said. "We cannot share more information at this time." 
 
<img alt="Ede" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a9679c33-d006-4f00-a445-09e6570800ab" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-03-30T155742.639_0.png" />
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René Verhulst, Mayor of Ede said later: "The siege has ended. We are talking to the families of the hostages who were horrified by this incident, we were able to evacuate hundreds of homes during the siege. As far as we know, the suspect is a Dutch citizen and is well known by the police."

Local newspaper de Telegraaf reported that people were being held at the local Petticoat nightclub by a "man with weapons and explosives".&nbsp;

This is a developing story. More information will be added soon.&nbsp;
</section>

A hostage situation at a popular nightclub in eastern Netherlands' town Ede, about 76 km southeast of Amsterdam, ended after the Dutch police arrested a masked man.

A hostage situation at a popular nightclub in eastern Netherlands' town Ede, about 76 km southeast of Amsterdam, ended after the Dutch police arrested a masked man. Several people were taken hostage by a man early on Saturday (March 30) who threatened to blow himself up, according to local media reports. The Dutch authorities confirmed that three nightclub-goers were released as the authorities sent robotic equipment to configure the state of hostages inside the Ede cafe. The crisis ended after the last hostage was released and the masked man surrendered. Dozen of homes around the area were evacuated and the town centre was closed down. Trains to and from Ede were cancelled from the local schedule charts. "The last hostage has just been released. One person has been arrested," a police statement said. "We cannot share more information at this time." René Verhulst, Mayor of Ede said later: "The siege has ended. We are talking to the families of the hostages who were horrified by this incident, we were able to evacuate hundreds of homes during the siege. As far as we know, the suspect is a Dutch citizen and is well known by the police." Local newspaper de Telegraaf reported that people were being held at the local Petticoat nightclub by a "man with weapons and explosives". This is a developing story. More information will be added soon.

Netherlands nightclub hostage crisis ends after Dutch police arrest masked man

In another incident of racial attack, a South Asian pizza delivery man faced abuse at the hands of one of the customers in Toronto, Canada.

The delivery agent, who had set off on a routine delivery, was verbally bullied by a male customer, who used derogatory remarks against him and also recorded the entire conversation in a TikTok video.

The executive was delivering pizza orders from the Canadian pizza chain “Pizza Pizza” when the argument started between him and the customer over the lack of change in cash.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-national-dies-in-russia-he-was-forced-to-fight-during-ukraine-war-697326">Indian national dies in Russia after being forced to fight in Ukraine war</a>

<h2>How did the argument start between the agent and customer?</h2>

In the viral video, the customer is seen repeatedly asking the delivery agent to call customer care since the South Asian man does not have any change in cash.

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This delivery guy in Brampton, Canada was harassed by a worthless customer who’s trying to make content for his TikTok. If anyone knows who he is I’d like to send him a huge tip. <a href="https://t.co/1EDr8N7oPC">pic.twitter.com/1EDr8N7oPC</a>
— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) <a href="https://twitter.com/stillgray/status/1772876103494844670?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The customer, who cannot be seen in the video, had given a $20 bill to the South Asian man and was demanding a change in cash. The title of the video was “me vs the pizza man”.

“That's the exact money you have to give me. Do you think I never ordered food before? Dummy. You stupid. Call the work, please,” &nbsp;the customer can be heard telling the agent who then dials the customer care.

“I dare you. I dare you. I will show you something,” the customer is then seen ranting over the man. As the delivery agent contacts his company, the man continues to insult the agent and calls him a ''stupid brown guy."

The delivery agent then shares the order details with customer service and takes their advice on what needs to be done. He also informs them that the customer is abusing him.

“The customer was giving me s**t. He is abusing me…. can I take my order back? I don't have any change right now,” the South Asian man is heard saying on the call.

Watch:&nbsp;23-year-old Indian man hired as 'helper' in Russia killed in warzone

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After taking instructions from customer service, the man hangs up.

“I want my order back. I will bring the change and then I will give it to you,” he informs the customer. After the man insists that he wants to take back the food, the customer asks him to pick up the pizza packet from the floor and further throws insulting comments on the delivery man.

The customer further refused to speak to the customer service.

“You f**king clown. This is the worst delivery driver you've ever had. Fire this guy,” he said loudly as the South Asian man once again called his employer and asked him what needed to be done.

The man eventually left with his pizza box as the customer continued abusing him.

(With inputs from agencies)

In another incident of racial attack, a South Asian pizza delivery man faced abuse at the hands of one of the customers in Toronto, Canada. The delivery agent, who had set off on a routine delivery, was verbally bullied by a male customer, who used derogatory remarks against him and also recorded the entire conversation in a TikTok video.

In another incident of racial attack, a South Asian pizza delivery man faced abuse at the hands of one of the customers in Toronto, Canada. The delivery agent, who had set off on a routine delivery, was verbally bullied by a male customer, who used derogatory remarks against him and also recorded the entire conversation in a TikTok video. The executive was delivering pizza orders from the Canadian pizza chain “Pizza Pizza” when the argument started between him and the customer over the lack of change in cash. Also Read: Indian national dies in Russia after being forced to fight in Ukraine war How did the argument start between the agent and customer? In the viral video, the customer is seen repeatedly asking the delivery agent to call customer care since the South Asian man does not have any change in cash. This delivery guy in Brampton, Canada was harassed by a worthless customer who’s trying to make content for his TikTok. If anyone knows who he is I’d like to send him a huge tip. pic.twitter.com/1EDr8N7oPC — Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) March 27, 2024 × The customer, who cannot be seen in the video, had given a $20 bill to the South Asian man and was demanding a change in cash. The title of the video was “me vs the pizza man”. “That's the exact money you have to give me. Do you think I never ordered food before? Dummy. You stupid. Call the work, please,” the customer can be heard telling the agent who then dials the customer care. “I dare you. I dare you. I will show you something,” the customer is then seen ranting over the man. As the delivery agent contacts his company, the man continues to insult the agent and calls him a ''stupid brown guy." The delivery agent then shares the order details with customer service and takes their advice on what needs to be done. He also informs them that the customer is abusing him. “The customer was giving me s**t. He is abusing me…. can I take my order back? I don't have any change right now,” the South Asian man is heard saying on the call. Watch: 23-year-old Indian man hired as 'helper' in Russia killed in warzone After taking instructions from customer service, the man hangs up. “I want my order back. I will bring the change and then I will give it to you,” he informs the customer. After the man insists that he wants to take back the food, the customer asks him to pick up the pizza packet from the floor and further throws insulting comments on the delivery man. The customer further refused to speak to the customer service. “You f**king clown. This is the worst delivery driver you've ever had. Fire this guy,” he said loudly as the South Asian man once again called his employer and asked him what needed to be done. The man eventually left with his pizza box as the customer continued abusing him. (With inputs from agencies)

'F**king clown': Man hurls racial abuse at South Asian pizza delivery man. Video

The Indian Navy has responded to a potential piracy attack on an Iranian fishing vessel in the Arabian Sea, and diverted two naval ships to intercept the hijacked vessel on Friday. Watch in for more details!

Indian Navy recieves distress signal during patrol, rescues hijacked Iranian vessel

Christians worldwide are observing Good Friday it's the day that commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ the day is marked by fasting giving arms to the needy and attending church services.

Good Friday: Pope Francis presides over ceremonies at the Vatican

A report says the US has authorized the transfer of billions of dollars worth of bombs and fighter jets to Israel. This comes even as Washington publicly expresses concerns about an anticipated Israeli military offensive in Rafah.

US gives $3.8 bn in annual military assistance to Israel | Democrats criticise Biden's support

Russian missile and drone attacks hit thermal and hydro power plants in central and western Ukraine, power grid operator Ukrenergo said on Friday, in the latest barrage targeting the country's already damaged power infrastructure.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia targets key energy infrastructure in Ukraine

Indian Navy intercepts hijacked Iranian vessels

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Friday (Mar 29) eliminated a high-ranking&nbsp;leader of the militant group Hezbollah in an airstrike in Lebanon as the Jewish country continues to target the position of the Iranian proxy in the Lebanese territory.

The killed&nbsp;Hezbollah militant was reportedly identified as Ali Abed Akhsan Naim. Reports said that he was the deputy commander of Hezbollah's rocket and missiles unit.

Notably, Hezbollah has rocket and missile capabilities in its arsenal and the group has been launching barrage of rockets on Israel in the aftermath of the Gaza war.&nbsp;

According to the IDF, Naim was responsible for orchestrating and executing attacks with the help of heavy-warhead rockets. These rockets used to target Israeli civilians.&nbsp;

The fatal strike was reportedly carried out via a drone attack at the time when the Hezbollah leader Naim was travelling in his vehicle in Bazouriye, a region located in southern Lebanon near the border with Israel.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-bridge-constructing-a-new-bridge-could-cost-minimum-400-million-says-experts-705975">Baltimore bridge: Constructing a new bridge could cost minimum $400 million, experts say</a>

Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) also carried out airstrikes in one of the largest cities in Syria&nbsp;- Aleppo. The strike resulted in the killing of 42 individuals, including six Hezbollah operatives.

Reports suggested that the tally of Hezbollah fighters killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon thus far is at&nbsp;254.

<h2>Israel strikes UN vehicle?&nbsp;</h2>

Initial reports indicated that an Israeli drone strike had targeted a vehicle carrying United Nations observers near Rmeish. However, these claims were refuted by the IDF. The forces stated that they did not strike a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) vehicle in the area.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-terror-attack-15-year-old-who-saved-over-100-lives-receives-medal-705974">Moscow terror attack: 15-year-old who saved over 100 lives receives medal</a>

IDF, on its social media handle also shared the elimination of Ra’ad Thabat, the head of manpower in Hamas’ military wing. Thabat, considered one of Hamas’ top 10 senior commanders, was responsible for research and development efforts and strengthening systems within the group, as per IDF. He was also&nbsp;head of Hamas’ production unit.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-members-of-biden-admin-call-for-israel-aid-cut-white-house-declines-to-comment-705984">US: Members of Biden admin call for Israel aid cut, White House declines to comment</a>

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"He was found and eliminated during the ongoing operation at Shifa attempting to escape along with 2 other terrorists into the hospital courtyard—part of a planned attack on IDF soldiers," IDF said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Friday (Mar 29) eliminated a high-ranking leader of the militant group Hezbollah in an airstrike in Lebanon as the Jewish country continues to target the position of the Iranian proxy in the Lebanese territory.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Friday (Mar 29) eliminated a high-ranking leader of the militant group Hezbollah in an airstrike in Lebanon as the Jewish country continues to target the position of the Iranian proxy in the Lebanese territory. The killed Hezbollah militant was reportedly identified as Ali Abed Akhsan Naim. Reports said that he was the deputy commander of Hezbollah's rocket and missiles unit. Notably, Hezbollah has rocket and missile capabilities in its arsenal and the group has been launching barrage of rockets on Israel in the aftermath of the Gaza war. According to the IDF, Naim was responsible for orchestrating and executing attacks with the help of heavy-warhead rockets. These rockets used to target Israeli civilians. The fatal strike was reportedly carried out via a drone attack at the time when the Hezbollah leader Naim was travelling in his vehicle in Bazouriye, a region located in southern Lebanon near the border with Israel. Also Read | Baltimore bridge: Constructing a new bridge could cost minimum $400 million, experts say Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) also carried out airstrikes in one of the largest cities in Syria - Aleppo. The strike resulted in the killing of 42 individuals, including six Hezbollah operatives. Reports suggested that the tally of Hezbollah fighters killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon thus far is at 254. Israel strikes UN vehicle? Initial reports indicated that an Israeli drone strike had targeted a vehicle carrying United Nations observers near Rmeish. However, these claims were refuted by the IDF. The forces stated that they did not strike a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) vehicle in the area. Also Read | Moscow terror attack: 15-year-old who saved over 100 lives receives medal IDF, on its social media handle also shared the elimination of Ra’ad Thabat, the head of manpower in Hamas’ military wing. Thabat, considered one of Hamas’ top 10 senior commanders, was responsible for research and development efforts and strengthening systems within the group, as per IDF. He was also head of Hamas’ production unit. Watch | US: Members of Biden admin call for Israel aid cut, White House declines to comment × "He was found and eliminated during the ongoing operation at Shifa attempting to escape along with 2 other terrorists into the hospital courtyard—part of a planned attack on IDF soldiers," IDF said. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Who was Ali Abed Akhsan Naim? Top Hezbollah commander in Lebanon eliminated by Israel

US President Joe Biden has written a letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and expressed his best wishes for the newly elected government of Pakistan. Watch in for more details!

US President Joe Biden's letter to Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif

A group of immigrant workers gathered at the Baltimore offices of Casa a Maryland-based immigration advocacy group where they mourned the lives lost on the bridge collapse. This comes as a crane that can lift a thousand tons described as one of the largest on the Eastern Seaboard arrived near the site of a collapsed highway bridge as crews prepare to begin clearing wreckage that is hindering the search for four workers missing and presumed dead.

Baltimore bridge collapse: Clean-up underway, massive crane arrives

The demand for one of the world's most prestigious educational institutions seems to be dimming Harvard University is witnessing a significant drop in annual applications for the second consecutive year.

US: Dip in annual applications at Harvard, tensions on the rise at campus due to Israel-Hamas war

A hostage situation in at a popular nightclub in Central Netherlands has ended without any bloodshed. The Dutch Police have now arrested a gunman and the last hostage has been released.

Dutch police arrest gunman exiting nightclub in Central Netherlands | Dutch hostage situation ends

Indoensia's President-elect Prabowo Subianto is all set to visit China next week. The Former General who will take office in October after his sweeping victory last week.

China President Xi Jinping invites Indonesia President-elect Prabowo Subianto to China

Pope Francis cancelled at the last minute his attendance at the Good Friday procession at Rome's Colosseum, in what the Vatican described as a bid "to preserve his health" ahead of more Easter week engagements.

Francis' agenda for the next two days consists of an Easter Vigil service on Saturday evening and an Easter Mass and the twice-annual "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and world) message and blessing on Sunday morning.

The 87-year-old's sudden no show is likely to renew concerns about his declining strength. Francis uses a cane or a wheelchair to move around due to a knee ailment, and suffers from repeated bouts of bronchitis and influenza.

Good Friday leads on Sunday to Easter, the most important and joyous date in the Church's liturgical calendar - commemorating the day Christians believe Jesus rose from the dead.

The Vatican announced the pope's absence from the "Via Crucis" (Way of the Cross) procession just as it was about to start, saying in a statement he would follow it remotely from his Vatican residence.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-washes-and-kisses-feet-of-female-prisoners-in-ritual-ahead-of-easter-705416">Pope Francis, on wheelchair, washes and kisses feet of female prisoners in ritual ahead of Easter</a>

Francis, who had looked fitter this week after weeks in which he struggled to speak in public and cancelled some meetings, also missed the procession last year, after recovering from a four-day hospital stay for bronchitis.

<h2>Focus on women</h2>

The Via Crucis at the Colosseum is a re-enactment of Jesus' death by crucifixion, in which participants take turns in holding the cross as they walk in and around the ancient Roman arena, stopping to pray and hear meditations.

Nuns, priests, a hermit, charity workers, migrants and disabled people were among those who took part in the service, held in a landmark monument believed to have been a place of martyrdom for early Christians.

Francis personally wrote the meditations for this year, a first in his 11-year papacy. They included praises for meekness and forgiveness in response to acts of evil, and prayers for persecuted Christians and war victims.

The pope, who has called for the Church to become less male-dominated, also hailed the women who helped Jesus while he carried the cross, and pleaded for "those (women) who in our own day are exploited and endure injustice and indignity".

Watch:&nbsp;Pope fails to read to the audience; Asks his aide to read instead

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In another sign of his focus on women, Francis on Thursday performed the foot-washing ritual, which recalls Jesus' gesture of humility to his apostles at the Last Supper, in a women's prison in Rome.

Earlier on Friday, the pope joined cardinals and bishops for the Passion of the Lord service in St Peter's Basilica, which featured chants in Latin recounting events from Jesus' arrest to his burial.

In previous years, Francis would start the service prostrating himself on the floor of the basilica, but his frail state no longer allows him to do so. Instead, he arrived in a wheelchair and prayed silently in front of the main altar.

Pope Francis cancelled at the last minute his attendance at the Good Friday procession at Rome's Colosseum, in what the Vatican described as a bid "to preserve his health" ahead of more Easter week engagements.

Pope Francis cancelled at the last minute his attendance at the Good Friday procession at Rome's Colosseum, in what the Vatican described as a bid "to preserve his health" ahead of more Easter week engagements. Francis' agenda for the next two days consists of an Easter Vigil service on Saturday evening and an Easter Mass and the twice-annual "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and world) message and blessing on Sunday morning. The 87-year-old's sudden no show is likely to renew concerns about his declining strength. Francis uses a cane or a wheelchair to move around due to a knee ailment, and suffers from repeated bouts of bronchitis and influenza. Good Friday leads on Sunday to Easter, the most important and joyous date in the Church's liturgical calendar - commemorating the day Christians believe Jesus rose from the dead. The Vatican announced the pope's absence from the "Via Crucis" (Way of the Cross) procession just as it was about to start, saying in a statement he would follow it remotely from his Vatican residence. Also Read: Pope Francis, on wheelchair, washes and kisses feet of female prisoners in ritual ahead of Easter Francis, who had looked fitter this week after weeks in which he struggled to speak in public and cancelled some meetings, also missed the procession last year, after recovering from a four-day hospital stay for bronchitis. Focus on women The Via Crucis at the Colosseum is a re-enactment of Jesus' death by crucifixion, in which participants take turns in holding the cross as they walk in and around the ancient Roman arena, stopping to pray and hear meditations. Nuns, priests, a hermit, charity workers, migrants and disabled people were among those who took part in the service, held in a landmark monument believed to have been a place of martyrdom for early Christians. Francis personally wrote the meditations for this year, a first in his 11-year papacy. They included praises for meekness and forgiveness in response to acts of evil, and prayers for persecuted Christians and war victims. The pope, who has called for the Church to become less male-dominated, also hailed the women who helped Jesus while he carried the cross, and pleaded for "those (women) who in our own day are exploited and endure injustice and indignity". Watch: Pope fails to read to the audience; Asks his aide to read instead In another sign of his focus on women, Francis on Thursday performed the foot-washing ritual, which recalls Jesus' gesture of humility to his apostles at the Last Supper, in a women's prison in Rome. Earlier on Friday, the pope joined cardinals and bishops for the Passion of the Lord service in St Peter's Basilica, which featured chants in Latin recounting events from Jesus' arrest to his burial. In previous years, Francis would start the service prostrating himself on the floor of the basilica, but his frail state no longer allows him to do so. Instead, he arrived in a wheelchair and prayed silently in front of the main altar.

Pope Francis misses out Good Friday procession 'to preserve his health'

US: 5% dip in number of annual applications | Most prestigious college losing its sheen?

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Baltimore's collapsed bridge reconstruction is expected to take anywhere from 18 months to several years, and the estimated $400 million in expenditures could double that amount, according to experts.

The timeline depends on a number of variables, most of which are now unknown, including the bridge's design and how quickly government representatives handle contract awards and permit approvals.

Professor Ben Schafer of Johns Hopkins University engineering offers a reasonable five-to seven-year schedule based on analogies with lead times in other construction industries.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-claims-he-commuted-to-no-rail-lines-baltimore-bridge-by-train-many-times-704689">Biden says he commuted over Baltimore bridge by train 'many times'. The problem? It has no rail tracks!</a>

Some experts, such as Sameh Badie from George Washington University, are optimistic about completion, estimating it to take between 18 months and 2 years.

The new tragedy emphasises how urgently restoration activities must be undertaken. It is reminiscent of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge collapse in Florida in 1980. One notable example of a project completed quickly is the Minnesota Interstate 35W bridge, which was rebuilt quickly after collapsing in 2007.

Although the sources of funds, including the government support promised by President Joe Biden, are still unknown, coordinated efforts are anticipated to reduce the bureaucratic backlog.

Experts estimate that, depending on design complexity and material availability, the project might cost between $500 million and $1 billion, notwithstanding obstacles including unstable steel pricing and a shortage of construction resources.

In order to reduce future dangers, Hota GangaRao from West Virginia University emphasises the intricacy of using the current pier foundations as opposed to repositioning supports and the associated financial consequences.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/efforts-escalate-to-clear-baltimore-bridge-debris-after-massive-crisis-705784" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/efforts-escalate-to-clear-baltimore-bridge-debris-after-massive-crisis-705784&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjGg7TH7ZuFAxWsnq8BHdo4BF0QFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0YGbYuwzp84AAbSkeNGjn3&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/efforts-escalate-to-clear-baltimore-bridge-debris-after-massive-crisis-705784" target="_blank">Efforts escalate to clear&nbsp;Baltimore&nbsp;bridge debris after massive crisis</a>

Emeritus engineering professor Norma Jean Mattei of The University of New Orleans highlights the complex procedure that goes into replacing such a vital infrastructure, stressing the length of time needed for planning, obtaining permits, choosing a contractor, and starting construction.

Biden sanctions $60 million, Governor says 'very long road ahead'

Maryland Governor Wes Moore on Thursday (Mar 28) said it is a “very long road ahead" as the Biden administration sanctioned a federal aid of $60 million after the deadly collapse.

Moore said that “the best minds in the world" have been making plans to clear the debris and shift the cargo ship which had rammed into the bridge. "Government is working hand in hand with industry to investigate the area, including the wreck, and remove the ship," the governor said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/source-of-baltimore-port-ship-spillage-not-known-uncertainity-around-debris-removal-time-synergy-rep-to-wion-705778" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/source-of-baltimore-port-ship-spillage-not-known-uncertainity-around-debris-removal-time-synergy-rep-to-wion-705778&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjGg7TH7ZuFAxWsnq8BHdo4BF0QFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw36JYjZnSdcV7H-TQcHPbAq&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/source-of-baltimore-port-ship-spillage-not-known-uncertainity-around-debris-removal-time-synergy-rep-to-wion-705778" target="_blank">Source of&nbsp;Baltimore&nbsp;port ship spillage not known</a>

“This work is not going to take hours. This work is not going to take days. This work is not going to take weeks. We have a very long road ahead of us," Moore added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Baltimore's collapsed bridge reconstruction is expected to take anywhere from 18 months to several years, and the estimated $400 million in expenditures could double that amount, according to experts.

Baltimore's collapsed bridge reconstruction is expected to take anywhere from 18 months to several years, and the estimated $400 million in expenditures could double that amount, according to experts. The timeline depends on a number of variables, most of which are now unknown, including the bridge's design and how quickly government representatives handle contract awards and permit approvals. Professor Ben Schafer of Johns Hopkins University engineering offers a reasonable five-to seven-year schedule based on analogies with lead times in other construction industries. Also Read: Biden says he commuted over Baltimore bridge by train 'many times'. The problem? It has no rail tracks! Some experts, such as Sameh Badie from George Washington University, are optimistic about completion, estimating it to take between 18 months and 2 years. The new tragedy emphasises how urgently restoration activities must be undertaken. It is reminiscent of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge collapse in Florida in 1980. One notable example of a project completed quickly is the Minnesota Interstate 35W bridge, which was rebuilt quickly after collapsing in 2007. Although the sources of funds, including the government support promised by President Joe Biden, are still unknown, coordinated efforts are anticipated to reduce the bureaucratic backlog. Experts estimate that, depending on design complexity and material availability, the project might cost between $500 million and $1 billion, notwithstanding obstacles including unstable steel pricing and a shortage of construction resources. In order to reduce future dangers, Hota GangaRao from West Virginia University emphasises the intricacy of using the current pier foundations as opposed to repositioning supports and the associated financial consequences. Also read: Efforts escalate to clear Baltimore bridge debris after massive crisis Emeritus engineering professor Norma Jean Mattei of The University of New Orleans highlights the complex procedure that goes into replacing such a vital infrastructure, stressing the length of time needed for planning, obtaining permits, choosing a contractor, and starting construction. Biden sanctions $60 million, Governor says 'very long road ahead' Maryland Governor Wes Moore on Thursday (Mar 28) said it is a “very long road ahead" as the Biden administration sanctioned a federal aid of $60 million after the deadly collapse. Moore said that “the best minds in the world" have been making plans to clear the debris and shift the cargo ship which had rammed into the bridge. "Government is working hand in hand with industry to investigate the area, including the wreck, and remove the ship," the governor said. Also read: Source of Baltimore port ship spillage not known “This work is not going to take hours. This work is not going to take days. This work is not going to take weeks. We have a very long road ahead of us," Moore added. (With inputs from agencies)

Baltimore bridge: Constructing a new bridge could cost minimum $400 million, experts say

A Muslim teenager who saved more than 100 lives during the March 22 terror attack at the Crocus City Hall outside Moscow was awarded a Muslim medal on Friday (Mar 29).

A Muslim teenager who saved more than 100 lives during the March 22 terror attack at the Crocus City Hall outside Moscow was awarded a Muslim medal on Friday (Mar 29). A report by the news agency Reuters said that 15-year-old Islam Khalilov worked part-time in the Crocus City Hall cloakroom, and helped guide people to safety by directing them to an exit during the gun attack. Khalilov became famous after a video of him helping people appeared on various Telegram channels as well as other social media platforms. He helped guide people to safety by directing them to an exit during the gun attack. Also read | Be more attentive: Kremlin's note of caution to Telegram owner following Moscow terror attack Here's a look at the viral video: 🛟 Fifteen-year-old schoolboy Islam Khalilov, who worked as a cloakroom attendant at Moscow's Crocus City Hall, saved over a 100 people by directing them to exit through the service areas. Khalilov explained that he was instructed as an employee on how to act in an emergency… pic.twitter.com/ZXUqn2L1qN — The Insider (@InsiderEng) March 24, 2024 × 'Anyone would do the same in my place' After receiving the medal from the Grand Mufti of Russia Rawil Gaynetdin, Khalilov said, "What I did, anyone in the world would do. I'm sure about it. Anyone would do the same in my place. The main award for me is just being here today." "Those who were on shift, all the other guys, everyone helped as much as they could. Of course, I would like to pay attention and express gratitude to other guys, Kyrgyz nationals, who also helped to evacuate people," he said. "Primarily, it is my upbringing. This is the way I was brought up. I was taught that you need to help people as much as you can," the 15-year-old added. Last week's terror attack killed more than 140 people and injured 382 others. The Islamic State (ISIS) claimed responsibility for the attack a claim that the United States has publicly said it believes. Earlier, Washington said it had warned Russia of intelligence about an imminent attack earlier this month. (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow terror attack: 15-year-old who saved over 100 lives receives medal

Opposition leader Bassirou Diomaye Faye has won Senegal Presidential elections with 54% votes.

Senegal President Faye's two first ladies | Senegal's first polygamous President

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