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Israel's Supreme Court on Thursday (Mar 28) ordered the country's government to stop funding religious schools whose students don't follow Israel's mandatory military service. This comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked the top court to defer by 30 days a deadline that gave his government until March 31 to come up with a new military conscription plan.&nbsp;

The plan is intended to address mainstream anger at exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jews.

The favour of the ultra-Orthodox population — approximately 13 per cent of Israel's population — is important for Netanyahu. Two ultra-Orthodox parties have been coalition partners in successive Netanyahu-led governments, and the apex court's order can pose a serious threat to the PM's governing coalition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-senior-minister-gantz-threatens-resignation-over-haredi-military-service-bill-703949">Israel cabinet minister Gantz threatens to quit if bill exempts ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service</a>

<h2>The conscription controversy</h2>

Israeli citizens are by law required to serve in the military and most Jewish men&nbsp;serve nearly three years in the military, followed by years of reserve duty, the women serve two mandatory years. &nbsp;

However, some citizens are exempt from this mandatory service. This includes ultra-Orthodox Jews (13 per cent of Israel's population) and the Arab minority (21 per cent of Israel's population).

While, as per Reuters, military conscriptions of ultra-Orthodox Haredi Jews is a decades-old controversy, it has become especially sensitive these days.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-court-of-justice-orders-israel-to-address-famine-in-gaza-ensure-unhindered-supply-of-food-705345">International Court of Justice orders Israel to address famine in Gaza, ensure unhindered supply of food</a>

Due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the nation's armed forces, made up mostly of teenaged conscripts and older civilians mobilised for reserve duty, have been waging a nearly six-month-old war in the Gaza Strip.

Reuters reports that as per a senior Israeli official's estimates, only about five per cent of the nation's population was taking part in the Gaza war.&nbsp;

On Monday, a government-issued stay on mandatory conscription of the ultra-Orthodox will expire.

<h2>Ultra-Orthodox population reacts to Supreme Court order</h2>

Israel's ultra-Orthodox population has been demanding that their constituents be permitted to study in seminaries instead of serving in the military.&nbsp;

The two ultra-Orthodox parties — United Torah Judaism and Shas — in Netanyahu's religious-nationalist coalition, have strongly criticised the ruling, referring to it as a "mark of Cain".&nbsp;As per Reuters, they have pledged to fight for what they say is their constituents' "right" to remain in seminaries. However, as of now, they have not explicitly threatened to walk out of the government.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's Supreme Court on Thursday (Mar 28) ordered the country's government to stop funding religious schools whose students don't follow Israel's mandatory military service.

Israel's Supreme Court on Thursday (Mar 28) ordered the country's government to stop funding religious schools whose students don't follow Israel's mandatory military service. This comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked the top court to defer by 30 days a deadline that gave his government until March 31 to come up with a new military conscription plan. The plan is intended to address mainstream anger at exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jews. The favour of the ultra-Orthodox population — approximately 13 per cent of Israel's population — is important for Netanyahu. Two ultra-Orthodox parties have been coalition partners in successive Netanyahu-led governments, and the apex court's order can pose a serious threat to the PM's governing coalition. Also read | Israel cabinet minister Gantz threatens to quit if bill exempts ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service The conscription controversy Israeli citizens are by law required to serve in the military and most Jewish men serve nearly three years in the military, followed by years of reserve duty, the women serve two mandatory years. However, some citizens are exempt from this mandatory service. This includes ultra-Orthodox Jews (13 per cent of Israel's population) and the Arab minority (21 per cent of Israel's population). While, as per Reuters, military conscriptions of ultra-Orthodox Haredi Jews is a decades-old controversy, it has become especially sensitive these days. Also read | International Court of Justice orders Israel to address famine in Gaza, ensure unhindered supply of food Due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the nation's armed forces, made up mostly of teenaged conscripts and older civilians mobilised for reserve duty, have been waging a nearly six-month-old war in the Gaza Strip. Reuters reports that as per a senior Israeli official's estimates, only about five per cent of the nation's population was taking part in the Gaza war. On Monday, a government-issued stay on mandatory conscription of the ultra-Orthodox will expire. Ultra-Orthodox population reacts to Supreme Court order Israel's ultra-Orthodox population has been demanding that their constituents be permitted to study in seminaries instead of serving in the military. The two ultra-Orthodox parties — United Torah Judaism and Shas — in Netanyahu's religious-nationalist coalition, have strongly criticised the ruling, referring to it as a "mark of Cain". As per Reuters, they have pledged to fight for what they say is their constituents' "right" to remain in seminaries. However, as of now, they have not explicitly threatened to walk out of the government. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel Supreme Court orders Netanyahu govt to halt funding for religious schools defying conscription

A cleanup started on Thursday (Mar 28) at the site of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge which collapsed on Tuesday morning after being hit by a massive cargo ship, killing six people. The clean-up was initiated after efforts to find dead bodies of people who went missing were stopped.&nbsp;

The Syrian Army said early Friday that Israel some insurgent groups launched airstrikes near the northern city of Aleppo, killing and wounding several people and damaging military structure. The exact number of casualties was not yet known.

In other news from around the world, the son of jailed Indian gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari has said that poison was added to his father's food which led to his sudden death. Ansari reportedly fell unconscious in a district jail in Uttar Pradesh and was rushed to a hospital where he died of cardiac arrest.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-bridge-collapse-dangerous-cleanup-begins-as-search-efforts-begin-705402">Baltimore bridge collapse: Dangerous cleanup begins as search efforts halt</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/29/421558-untitled-design-2024-03-29t092018275.png?imwidth=400" />

Thousands of relief workers with huge crane ships moved towards Baltimore in the United States on Thursday (Mar 28) &nbsp;to carry out a massive cleanup, which was deemed as 'highly dangerous' and 'unprecedented' by some experts.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-insurgent-groups-launch-airstrikes-near-aleppo-causing-casualties-syrian-army-705384">Israel, insurgent groups launch airstrikes near Aleppo, causing casualties: Syrian army</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/29/421548-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

The Syrian Army said early Friday (Mar 29) that Israel as well as some insurgent groups launched airstrikes near the northern city of Aleppo, killing and wounding several people and damaging military structure. The army didn’t reveal the exact number of casualties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mukhtar-ansaris-son-alleges-father-administered-slow-poison-through-food-705381">Mukhtar Ansari's son alleges father administered 'slow poison' through food</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/29/421547-untitled-design-2024-03-29t081605214.png?imwidth=400" />

Gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari's son Umar Ansari on Thursday (Mar 28) claimed that poison was added to his father's food which led to his sudden death and said that they would move the court.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-presidents-obama-and-clinton-join-biden-in-new-york-to-attract-eyeballs-and-funds-705397">Former US presidents Obama and Clinton join Biden in New York to attract eyeballs and funds</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/29/421556-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

It was a star-studded Democratic gala Thursday night (Mar 28), where US President Joe Biden and two of his predecessors attended an event that helped them rake in $25 million for the presidential campaign.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Year long war in Sudan affects Ramadan festivities

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A cleanup started on Thursday (Mar 28) at the site of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge which collapsed on Tuesday morning after being hit by a massive cargo ship, killing six people.

A cleanup started on Thursday (Mar 28) at the site of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge which collapsed on Tuesday morning after being hit by a massive cargo ship, killing six people. The clean-up was initiated after efforts to find dead bodies of people who went missing were stopped. The Syrian Army said early Friday that Israel some insurgent groups launched airstrikes near the northern city of Aleppo, killing and wounding several people and damaging military structure. The exact number of casualties was not yet known. In other news from around the world, the son of jailed Indian gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari has said that poison was added to his father's food which led to his sudden death. Ansari reportedly fell unconscious in a district jail in Uttar Pradesh and was rushed to a hospital where he died of cardiac arrest. Click on the headlines to read more: Baltimore bridge collapse: Dangerous cleanup begins as search efforts halt Thousands of relief workers with huge crane ships moved towards Baltimore in the United States on Thursday (Mar 28) to carry out a massive cleanup, which was deemed as 'highly dangerous' and 'unprecedented' by some experts. Israel, insurgent groups launch airstrikes near Aleppo, causing casualties: Syrian army The Syrian Army said early Friday (Mar 29) that Israel as well as some insurgent groups launched airstrikes near the northern city of Aleppo, killing and wounding several people and damaging military structure. The army didn’t reveal the exact number of casualties. Mukhtar Ansari's son alleges father administered 'slow poison' through food Gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari's son Umar Ansari on Thursday (Mar 28) claimed that poison was added to his father's food which led to his sudden death and said that they would move the court. Former US presidents Obama and Clinton join Biden in New York to attract eyeballs and funds It was a star-studded Democratic gala Thursday night (Mar 28), where US President Joe Biden and two of his predecessors attended an event that helped them rake in $25 million for the presidential campaign. Watch | Year long war in Sudan affects Ramadan festivities ×

Morning brief: Cleanup begins at Baltimore bridge collapse site, and more

Judges at the United Nations’ top court, on Thursday (Mar 28) unanimously ordered Israel to take all the necessary and effective measures to ensure that basic food supplies enter Gaza without any delays amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Famine is setting in’</h2>

In their order, the judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) noted that Gazans are facing worsening conditions of life.&nbsp;

“The court observes that Palestinians in Gaza are no longer facing only a risk of famine…but that famine is setting in,” said the judges.

The court has asked Israel to take “all necessary and effective measures to ensure, without delay…the unhindered provision at scale by all concerned of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians throughout Gaza”.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel war: IDF conducts fresh strikes in Lebanon

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-idf-conducts-fresh-strikes-in-lebanon-704686/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The recent measures were requested by South Africa as part of its ongoing case which accuses Israel of state-led genocide in Gaza.&nbsp;

The UN top court, in its Thursday order, reaffirmed the measures first outlined in January that Israel must take action to ensure unhindered delivery of food, water, electricity, fuel, hygiene and sanitation requirements, as well as medical supplies and medical care to Palestinians across Gaza.

Israel could do so “by increasing the capacity and number of land crossing points and maintaining them open for as long as necessary,” the judges added.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-downs-more-than-25-drones-in-latest-overnight-russian-strikes-705184">Ukraine claims it downed 26 drones in latest Russian strikes</a>

The court has also ordered Israel to submit a report next month detailing how they have carried out its order.&nbsp;

<h2>‘No alternative’ to aid delivery by land</h2>

The ruling came after the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reiterated its call for “swift, safe and unimpeded humanitarian passage (of aid) through all crossings,” in a post on X. It added, “Time is of the essence.”

It also noted that there is “no alternative to large-scale deliveries of aid by land in Gaza.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-authority-announces-new-cabinet-amid-calls-for-reform-705265">Palestinian Authority PM announces new cabinet, calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza</a>

This comes as several countries have been air-dropping aid into Gaza and using ships to deliver it to the enclave’s Mediterranean coast.&nbsp;

However, the UN and other organisations working in Gaza have called these methods expensive and inefficient, asking Israel to open all land crossings in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Judges at the United Nations’ top court, on Thursday (Mar 28) unanimously ordered Israel to take all the necessary and effective measures to ensure that basic food supplies enter Gaza without any delays amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Judges at the United Nations’ top court, on Thursday (Mar 28) unanimously ordered Israel to take all the necessary and effective measures to ensure that basic food supplies enter Gaza without any delays amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. ‘Famine is setting in’ In their order, the judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) noted that Gazans are facing worsening conditions of life. “The court observes that Palestinians in Gaza are no longer facing only a risk of famine…but that famine is setting in,” said the judges. The court has asked Israel to take “all necessary and effective measures to ensure, without delay…the unhindered provision at scale by all concerned of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians throughout Gaza”. WATCH | Israel war: IDF conducts fresh strikes in Lebanon The recent measures were requested by South Africa as part of its ongoing case which accuses Israel of state-led genocide in Gaza. The UN top court, in its Thursday order, reaffirmed the measures first outlined in January that Israel must take action to ensure unhindered delivery of food, water, electricity, fuel, hygiene and sanitation requirements, as well as medical supplies and medical care to Palestinians across Gaza. Israel could do so “by increasing the capacity and number of land crossing points and maintaining them open for as long as necessary,” the judges added. Also Read | Ukraine claims it downed 26 drones in latest Russian strikes The court has also ordered Israel to submit a report next month detailing how they have carried out its order. ‘No alternative’ to aid delivery by land The ruling came after the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reiterated its call for “swift, safe and unimpeded humanitarian passage (of aid) through all crossings,” in a post on X. It added, “Time is of the essence.” It also noted that there is “no alternative to large-scale deliveries of aid by land in Gaza.” Also Read | Palestinian Authority PM announces new cabinet, calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza This comes as several countries have been air-dropping aid into Gaza and using ships to deliver it to the enclave’s Mediterranean coast. However, the UN and other organisations working in Gaza have called these methods expensive and inefficient, asking Israel to open all land crossings in the Palestinian enclave. (With inputs from agencies)

International Court of Justice orders Israel to address famine in Gaza, ensure unhindered supply of food

Thousands of relief workers with huge crane ships moved towards Baltimore in the United States on Thursday (Mar 28) &nbsp;to carry out a massive cleanup, which was deemed as 'highly dangerous' and 'unprecedented' by some experts.&nbsp;

The clean-up was initiated after efforts to find dead bodies of people who went missing were stopped. The officials had recovered two construction workers' dead bodies from a submerged truck and four people remain missing or are presumed to be dead.

However, the divers are no longer able to operate near the mangled bridge debris which has encased submerged vehicles.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed on Tuesday morning (Mar 26) after being hit by a massive cargo ship.

Several floating cranes were deployed by the US Navy, including one which can lift 1,000 tonnes. Meanwhile, the US Army Corps of Engineers said that they will send more than 1,100 engineering specialists as well as experts to start removing the debris which has crippled the Port of Baltimore.

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>

<h2>Biden sanctions $60 million, Governor says 'very long road ahead'</h2>

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.

“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.&nbsp;

<h2>A three-step process to clean up debris</h2>

According to the officials, a three-step effort will be made to remove the debris. The teams will first remove the massive steel trusses from the shipping channel to start one-way traffic into and out of the port again.&nbsp;

Second, the pieces of the bridge, which are draped across the 985-foot Dali, will be lifted and moved. After this, they will remove concrete and steel which is present on the river bed.&nbsp;

It is still unclear how long will the process take. However, as per the experts, the cleanup is likely to pose a monumental challenge because of frigid waters in which divers will have to cut steel beams.

Watch:&nbsp;Baltimore Bridge Collapse: US President Biden hails Indian crew for sounding SOS call

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/baltimore-bridge-collapse-us-president-biden-hails-indian-crew-for-sounding-sos-call-704621/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, US authorities started interviewing the personnel, which included Indian crew members, who were onboard the container ship 'Dali' and had sent the SOS.&nbsp;

<h2>Survivor's wife says workers were on break when bridge collapsed</h2>

The wife of one of the living construction workers, Julio Cervantes, said that the workers were on a break inside the car when the bridge collapsed.

“All of the men were on a break in their cars when the boat hit. We don't know if they were warned before the impact,” said Cervantes' wife, while speaking to NBC News.

“My husband doesn’t know how to swim. It is a miracle he survived,” she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of relief workers with huge crane ships moved towards Baltimore in the United States on Thursday (Mar 28) to carry out a massive cleanup, which was deemed as 'highly dangerous' and 'unprecedented' by some experts.

Thousands of relief workers with huge crane ships moved towards Baltimore in the United States on Thursday (Mar 28) to carry out a massive cleanup, which was deemed as 'highly dangerous' and 'unprecedented' by some experts. The clean-up was initiated after efforts to find dead bodies of people who went missing were stopped. The officials had recovered two construction workers' dead bodies from a submerged truck and four people remain missing or are presumed to be dead. However, the divers are no longer able to operate near the mangled bridge debris which has encased submerged vehicles. The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed on Tuesday morning (Mar 26) after being hit by a massive cargo ship. Several floating cranes were deployed by the US Navy, including one which can lift 1,000 tonnes. Meanwhile, the US Army Corps of Engineers said that they will send more than 1,100 engineering specialists as well as experts to start removing the debris which has crippled the Port of Baltimore. Also Read: Biden says he commuted over Baltimore bridge by train 'many times'. The problem? It has no rail tracks! 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. “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. A three-step process to clean up debris According to the officials, a three-step effort will be made to remove the debris. The teams will first remove the massive steel trusses from the shipping channel to start one-way traffic into and out of the port again. Second, the pieces of the bridge, which are draped across the 985-foot Dali, will be lifted and moved. After this, they will remove concrete and steel which is present on the river bed. It is still unclear how long will the process take. However, as per the experts, the cleanup is likely to pose a monumental challenge because of frigid waters in which divers will have to cut steel beams. Watch: Baltimore Bridge Collapse: US President Biden hails Indian crew for sounding SOS call Meanwhile, US authorities started interviewing the personnel, which included Indian crew members, who were onboard the container ship 'Dali' and had sent the SOS. Survivor's wife says workers were on break when bridge collapsed The wife of one of the living construction workers, Julio Cervantes, said that the workers were on a break inside the car when the bridge collapsed. “All of the men were on a break in their cars when the boat hit. We don't know if they were warned before the impact,” said Cervantes' wife, while speaking to NBC News. “My husband doesn’t know how to swim. It is a miracle he survived,” she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Baltimore bridge collapse: Dangerous cleanup begins as search efforts halt

The US military has been substantially burdened by over two months of direct warfare with the Houthis. It is spending a substantial amount of money to take down inexpensive drones, execute retaliation strikes, and protect against rebels who are taking down expensive American drones.

Houthi drones vs US missiles: US Navy use SM2 missiles costing $2 million

Ukraine suspects that Russia may have used a new type of guided bomb in airstrikes on the northeastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv on Wednesday. One person was killed and several others were injured after Russia, for the first time since 2022, struck Kharkiv with aerial bombs.

Russia strikes Ukraine's energy infrastructure; 700,000 residents in Kharkiv left without power

The Gaza authorities claimed on Tuesday that three Palestinians drowned while attempting to retrieve airdropped aid that had fallen into the Mediterranean, the latest incident in which an airdrop appears to have resulted in death.

Israel war: 12 drown recovering aid from sea; Gazans say, 'we have become like dog'

Russia on Thursday (March 28) blocked the annual renewal of a panel of experts scrutinising the imposition of UN sanctions against North Korea over its ballistic projectile agendas and nuclear weapons.

The move comes weeks after the United Nations stated that it was probing US accusations and reports of the transfer of arms between Pyongyang and Moscow that apparently had been used by the latter in its war against Ukraine.

However, both Russia and North Korea have denied the accusations but did vow to have deepened their military relations last year.

"This is almost comparable to destroying a CCTV to avoid being caught red-handed," said South Korea's UN Ambassador Joonkook Hwang of Russia's veto.

China on Thursday abstained from the vote, while the other 13 council members voted in its favour.

"Moscow has undermined the prospect of the peaceful, diplomatic resolution of one of the world's most dangerous nuclear proliferation issues," deputy US Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood told the council.

Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia questioned the work done by the experts before the vote and told the Security Council, "Its work is increasingly being reduced to playing into the hands of Western approaches, reprinting biased information and analyzing newspaper headlines and poor quality photos."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nonsense-putin-rubbishes-idea-of-russia-attacking-nato-countries-but-warns-that-f-16s-705166">Putin rubbishes idea of Russia attacking NATO countries but warns...</a>

<h2>'A guilty plea'</h2>

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba took to social media and slammed the veto calling it "a guilty plea".

The United States called the veto by Russia a "self-interested effort to bury the panel's reporting on its own collusion" with North Korea.

"Russia's actions today have cynically undermined international peace and security, all to advance the corrupt bargain that Moscow has struck with the DPRK," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said, referring to the North by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), North Korea has been under the sanction of the United Nations over its ballistic missile and nuclear programmes since the year 2016.

Over the years, these measures have been intensified.

For the past 15 years, the UN sanctions have been monitored by the panel of independent experts reporting to the &nbsp;Security Council twice a year, further recommending efforts for improved implementation of the measures.

The directive for the current panel of experts will expire on April 30, 2024.&nbsp;

The most recent report by them, which was made public earlier this month, stated that it was probing dozens of suspected cyberattacks by North Korea that raked in $3 billion to help it further develop its nuclear weapons programme.&nbsp;

"The panel, through its work to expose sanctions non-compliance, was an inconvenience for Russia," said Britain's UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward. "But let me be clear to Russia - the sanctions regime remains in place and the UK remains committed to holding DPRK to account for its compliance."

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Thursday (March 28) blocked the annual renewal of a panel of experts scrutinising the imposition of UN sanctions against North Korea over its ballistic projectile agendas and nuclear weapons.

Russia on Thursday (March 28) blocked the annual renewal of a panel of experts scrutinising the imposition of UN sanctions against North Korea over its ballistic projectile agendas and nuclear weapons. The move comes weeks after the United Nations stated that it was probing US accusations and reports of the transfer of arms between Pyongyang and Moscow that apparently had been used by the latter in its war against Ukraine. However, both Russia and North Korea have denied the accusations but did vow to have deepened their military relations last year. "This is almost comparable to destroying a CCTV to avoid being caught red-handed," said South Korea's UN Ambassador Joonkook Hwang of Russia's veto. China on Thursday abstained from the vote, while the other 13 council members voted in its favour. "Moscow has undermined the prospect of the peaceful, diplomatic resolution of one of the world's most dangerous nuclear proliferation issues," deputy US Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood told the council. Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia questioned the work done by the experts before the vote and told the Security Council, "Its work is increasingly being reduced to playing into the hands of Western approaches, reprinting biased information and analyzing newspaper headlines and poor quality photos." Also read: Putin rubbishes idea of Russia attacking NATO countries but warns... 'A guilty plea' Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba took to social media and slammed the veto calling it "a guilty plea". The United States called the veto by Russia a "self-interested effort to bury the panel's reporting on its own collusion" with North Korea. "Russia's actions today have cynically undermined international peace and security, all to advance the corrupt bargain that Moscow has struck with the DPRK," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said, referring to the North by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), North Korea has been under the sanction of the United Nations over its ballistic missile and nuclear programmes since the year 2016. Over the years, these measures have been intensified. For the past 15 years, the UN sanctions have been monitored by the panel of independent experts reporting to the Security Council twice a year, further recommending efforts for improved implementation of the measures. The directive for the current panel of experts will expire on April 30, 2024. The most recent report by them, which was made public earlier this month, stated that it was probing dozens of suspected cyberattacks by North Korea that raked in $3 billion to help it further develop its nuclear weapons programme. "The panel, through its work to expose sanctions non-compliance, was an inconvenience for Russia," said Britain's UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward. "But let me be clear to Russia - the sanctions regime remains in place and the UK remains committed to holding DPRK to account for its compliance." (With inputs from agencies)

Russian veto puts an end to monitoring of UN's North Korea sanctions

Big news that just come in where judges at the International Court of Justice - where a case is being heard - have unanimously ordered the state of Israel to take all immediate and necessary steps to ensure that basic food and humanitarian aid.

Big setback for Netanyahu government: Israel accused of state-led genocide in Gaza

Nearly two months after the Northern Ireland's government resumed post a 24-month lull and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) concerns regarding post-Brexit trade arrangements, the party's leader&nbsp;Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has been suspended from his position after being charged with sexual offences.&nbsp;

The charges against Donaldson come alongside those of a 57-year-old woman who has been accused of "aiding and abetting additional offences". Both are due to appear before Newry Magistrates' Court on April 24.

Northern Ireland's post-Brexit trade arrangements had been a focal point of contention since the UK's decision to leave the European Union. The status of Northern Ireland is unique due to its border with the Republic of Ireland, which is an EU member.

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When the UK exited the bloc, a trade deal was important to put in place to facilitate trade between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The&nbsp;Stormont started to function after two years after a new deal, supported by DUP, was finalised this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has been&nbsp;made to step down for the time being as the outcome of the legal proceedings remains pending. After Donaldson quit, Gavin Robinson MP was appointed as an interim leader.

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The DUP in a statement said, "In accordance with the party rules, the party officers have suspended Mr Donaldson from membership, pending the outcome of a judicial process."&nbsp;"The party officers have this morning unanimously appointed Mr Gavin Robinson MP as the interim party leader."

Prior to this announcement, Donaldson&nbsp;deleted his social media handles.&nbsp;Having served in politics for nearly four decades, Donaldson's career began with the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) before joining the DUP in 2004. He was knighted by the Queen in 2016.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nearly two months after the Northern Ireland's government resumed post a 24-month lull and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) concerns regarding post-Brexit trade arrangements, the party's leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has been suspended from his position after being charged with sexual offences.

Nearly two months after the Northern Ireland's government resumed post a 24-month lull and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) concerns regarding post-Brexit trade arrangements, the party's leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has been suspended from his position after being charged with sexual offences. The charges against Donaldson come alongside those of a 57-year-old woman who has been accused of "aiding and abetting additional offences". Both are due to appear before Newry Magistrates' Court on April 24. Northern Ireland's post-Brexit trade arrangements had been a focal point of contention since the UK's decision to leave the European Union. The status of Northern Ireland is unique due to its border with the Republic of Ireland, which is an EU member. Also Read | Italy's tilting Garisena tower to be shored up with similar equipment used for the Tower of Pisa When the UK exited the bloc, a trade deal was important to put in place to facilitate trade between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The Stormont started to function after two years after a new deal, supported by DUP, was finalised this year. Also Read | A part of Florida could drown by 2100 because of sea level rise, map shows Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has been made to step down for the time being as the outcome of the legal proceedings remains pending. After Donaldson quit, Gavin Robinson MP was appointed as an interim leader. Watch | Baltimore bridge collapse: Biden administration approves $60 million for rebuilding bridge × The DUP in a statement said, "In accordance with the party rules, the party officers have suspended Mr Donaldson from membership, pending the outcome of a judicial process." "The party officers have this morning unanimously appointed Mr Gavin Robinson MP as the interim party leader." Prior to this announcement, Donaldson deleted his social media handles. Having served in politics for nearly four decades, Donaldson's career began with the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) before joining the DUP in 2004. He was knighted by the Queen in 2016. (With inputs from agencies)

Weeks after Northern Ireland govt resumes, DUP's Sir Jeffrey Donaldson suspended amid sexual offence charges

French lawmakers in the lower house of the country’s parliament, on Thursday (Mar 28) voted in favour of legislation which would outlaw discrimination based on hairstyle, colour or texture, in what is being hailed as a historic move by the supporters of the bill that would make this type of workplace discrimination punishable.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the bill about?</h2>

The bill has sought to expand existing measures and explicitly outlaw discrimination over the texture, length, colour or style of a person’s hair – particularly those with curly, coiled or no hair at all.&nbsp;

The bill, drafted by Olivier Serva, a Black lawmaker from the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, said that many people have suffered due to discrimination based on their hair.&nbsp;

“There is a lot of suffering (based on hair discrimination) and we need to take this into account,” he told Reuters.&nbsp;

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The independent deputy for Guadeloupe cited a 2023 study by Dove and LinkedIn which showed that two out of three Black women in the United States changed their hair for a job interview.&nbsp;

The study also found that a Black woman’s hair was 2.5 times more likely to be perceived as unprofessional.

The bill was passed in the French parliament with a 44-2 majority since most of the lawmakers did not vote on it. However, it must still pass the French Senate where it might face opposition.&nbsp;

<h2>What are the arguments?</h2>

“It’s about time,” said Estelle Vallois, 43, who works as a consultant getting her short, coiled hair cut in a Paris salon told the Associated Press. She added, “Today, we’re going even further toward taking down these barriers of discrimination.”

However, people who have opposed the bill have called the bill unnecessary and an import of ideas from the United States.&nbsp;

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“Should we tomorrow expect a bill on discrimination against bald people, which I think are underrepresented in shampoo ads?” said Fabien Di Filipo of the conservative Les Republicains mocking the bill.&nbsp;

Similarly, far-right National Rally lawmaker Philippe Schreck told the parliament that he said that we should work on what he called more important issues, such as the country’s public debt.&nbsp;

At least 23 out of the 50 US states have passed legislation aimed at protecting people from hair discrimination in the workplace and public schools.

(With inputs from agencies)

French lawmakers in the lower house of the country’s parliament, on Thursday (Mar 28) voted in favour of legislation which would outlaw discrimination based on hairstyle, colour or texture, in what is being hailed as a historic move by the supporters of the bill that would make this type of workplace discrimination punishable.

French lawmakers in the lower house of the country’s parliament, on Thursday (Mar 28) voted in favour of legislation which would outlaw discrimination based on hairstyle, colour or texture, in what is being hailed as a historic move by the supporters of the bill that would make this type of workplace discrimination punishable. What is the bill about? The bill has sought to expand existing measures and explicitly outlaw discrimination over the texture, length, colour or style of a person’s hair – particularly those with curly, coiled or no hair at all. The bill, drafted by Olivier Serva, a Black lawmaker from the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, said that many people have suffered due to discrimination based on their hair. “There is a lot of suffering (based on hair discrimination) and we need to take this into account,” he told Reuters. Also Read | France hijab row: School head quits over death threats, govt to prosecute teen for false accusations The independent deputy for Guadeloupe cited a 2023 study by Dove and LinkedIn which showed that two out of three Black women in the United States changed their hair for a job interview. The study also found that a Black woman’s hair was 2.5 times more likely to be perceived as unprofessional. The bill was passed in the French parliament with a 44-2 majority since most of the lawmakers did not vote on it. However, it must still pass the French Senate where it might face opposition. What are the arguments? “It’s about time,” said Estelle Vallois, 43, who works as a consultant getting her short, coiled hair cut in a Paris salon told the Associated Press. She added, “Today, we’re going even further toward taking down these barriers of discrimination.” However, people who have opposed the bill have called the bill unnecessary and an import of ideas from the United States. Also Read | Macron and Lula’s photos during Amazon visit sparks social media frenzy “Should we tomorrow expect a bill on discrimination against bald people, which I think are underrepresented in shampoo ads?” said Fabien Di Filipo of the conservative Les Republicains mocking the bill. Similarly, far-right National Rally lawmaker Philippe Schreck told the parliament that he said that we should work on what he called more important issues, such as the country’s public debt. At least 23 out of the 50 US states have passed legislation aimed at protecting people from hair discrimination in the workplace and public schools. (With inputs from agencies)

French parliament votes in favour of bill to stop hair discrimination

China has sent across over a million bottles filled with water from melting Tibetan glaciers to the Maldives which is currently reeling under the detrimental impact of climate change.

With salt levels dripping into the land and corrupting water that is potable, the low-lying archipelago nation, which comprises over 1,192 tiny coral islands, is at the forefront of the climate crisis, further pushing it to be dependent on desalination plants.

According to the scientists, the Himalayan glaciers are melting faster than ever due to the climate change.

<h2>'Gift from world's highest mountains'</h2>

The Maldives foreign ministry released a statement saying that the consignment of 1,500 tonnes of drinking water was a gift from Yan Jinhai, the chairman of the Xizang Autonomous Region, or Tibet, lying more than 3,385 kilometres (2,100 miles) away on the far side of the world's highest mountain range.

The bottles of water, which were packed into 90 sea containers, had arrived last week and were&nbsp;unloaded in the capital city Male, said a port authority official.

"The Chairman of Xizang Autonomous Region announced his wish to donate 1,500 tonnes of drinking water... during his official visit to the country in November," the Maldives foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Shortage of water</h2>

Earlier, there were reports that the water was imported for the consumption of President Mohamed Muizzu, who is also dubbed as pro-China.

However, the ministry rebuffed the accusations stating that the ministry had decided to utilise the water to assist islands.

"The government of Maldives has decided to utilise the water to provide assistance to islands in case of water shortage," it said.

<h2>Maldives to get free military assistance from China</h2>

Earlier this month, China inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties.

The Defence Minister of the Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon met with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China, and discussed strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations.

Maumoon and Major General Baoqun "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering stronger bilateral ties," the Maldivian defence ministry posted on its X handle.

Previously, China has also gifted 12 environmentally efficient ambulances to the Maldives.

(With inputs from agencies)

China has sent across over a million bottles filled with water from melting Tibetan glaciers to the Maldives which is currently reeling under the detrimental impact of climate change.

China has sent across over a million bottles filled with water from melting Tibetan glaciers to the Maldives which is currently reeling under the detrimental impact of climate change. With salt levels dripping into the land and corrupting water that is potable, the low-lying archipelago nation, which comprises over 1,192 tiny coral islands, is at the forefront of the climate crisis, further pushing it to be dependent on desalination plants. According to the scientists, the Himalayan glaciers are melting faster than ever due to the climate change. 'Gift from world's highest mountains' The Maldives foreign ministry released a statement saying that the consignment of 1,500 tonnes of drinking water was a gift from Yan Jinhai, the chairman of the Xizang Autonomous Region, or Tibet, lying more than 3,385 kilometres (2,100 miles) away on the far side of the world's highest mountain range. The bottles of water, which were packed into 90 sea containers, had arrived last week and were unloaded in the capital city Male, said a port authority official. "The Chairman of Xizang Autonomous Region announced his wish to donate 1,500 tonnes of drinking water... during his official visit to the country in November," the Maldives foreign ministry said in a statement. Shortage of water Earlier, there were reports that the water was imported for the consumption of President Mohamed Muizzu, who is also dubbed as pro-China. However, the ministry rebuffed the accusations stating that the ministry had decided to utilise the water to assist islands. "The government of Maldives has decided to utilise the water to provide assistance to islands in case of water shortage," it said. Maldives to get free military assistance from China Earlier this month, China inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties. The Defence Minister of the Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon met with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China, and discussed strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations. Maumoon and Major General Baoqun "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering stronger bilateral ties," the Maldivian defence ministry posted on its X handle. Previously, China has also gifted 12 environmentally efficient ambulances to the Maldives. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate change-threatened Maldives receives Tibetan glacier water from China

Food filled trucks, the main lifeline for Gazans, are at the heart of the escalating humanitarian crisis gripping the enclave as the Global Authority on Food Security has warned that famine is imminent. Watch in for more details!

Israel War | Famine imminent in North Gaza: World Food Programme

As the US Presidential race heats up, Joe Biden's campaign is trying to shore up support and expand its war chest. Three Democrat Presidents are coming together at first-of-its-kind fundraiser this spring. Watch this report for more details!

US Elections 2024: President Biden holds record breaking NYC fundraiser with Clinton & Obama

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday (Mar 28) vowed countermeasures against "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks" by China's coastguard stating that his country will not be "cowed into silence" by Beijing.

The remarks by Marcos come amid an escalating row in the South China Sea following altercations between the two sides that wounded Filipino troops and also severely damaged vessels.

Marcos did not provide details about the countermeasures, however, said that they would be proportionate, deliberate and reasonable in response to what he described as open and unabating attacks.

He also said that the countermeasures would be implemented in the coming weeks.

"We seek no conflict with any nation, more so nations that purport and claim to be our friends but we will not be cowed into silence, submission, or subservience," Marcos said on Facebook.

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The strained ties between the two countries come after Marcos sought to intensify the defence ties with the United States, advancing Washington's access to Philippine military bases and augmenting joint exercises so as to include sea and air patrols over the South China Sea, hence infuriating Beijing.

However, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian on Thursday (Mar 28) blamed the Philippines for the breakdown stating that it was relying on outside support and was invading China's sovereignty and spreading misinformation.

"It is straying further down a dangerous path. The Chinese side will not allow the Philippines to act willfully," Wu told a briefing.

"We have responded with legitimate, resolute and restrained actions. The Philippine side should realise that provocations will only do themselves more harm than good, and soliciting foreign support will lead nowhere."&nbsp;

The most recent flare-up happened last week when China made use of a water cannon to thwart a Philippine resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal for the troops deployed to monitor a warship purposefully grounded on a reef almost two decades ago.

China on Monday issued a warning to the Philippines to behave cautiously and seek dialogue stating that the relations between both countries were at a "crossroads".

Marcos said he met his defence and security officials and has been in communication with "friends in the international community".

"They have offered to help us on what the Philippines requires to protect and secure our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction while ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific," Marcos said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday (Mar 28) vowed countermeasures against "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks" by China's coastguard stating that his country will not be "cowed into silence" by Beijing.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday (Mar 28) vowed countermeasures against "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks" by China's coastguard stating that his country will not be "cowed into silence" by Beijing. The remarks by Marcos come amid an escalating row in the South China Sea following altercations between the two sides that wounded Filipino troops and also severely damaged vessels. Marcos did not provide details about the countermeasures, however, said that they would be proportionate, deliberate and reasonable in response to what he described as open and unabating attacks. He also said that the countermeasures would be implemented in the coming weeks. "We seek no conflict with any nation, more so nations that purport and claim to be our friends but we will not be cowed into silence, submission, or subservience," Marcos said on Facebook. Also read: Climate-threatened Maldives receives Tibetan glacier water from China The strained ties between the two countries come after Marcos sought to intensify the defence ties with the United States, advancing Washington's access to Philippine military bases and augmenting joint exercises so as to include sea and air patrols over the South China Sea, hence infuriating Beijing. However, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian on Thursday (Mar 28) blamed the Philippines for the breakdown stating that it was relying on outside support and was invading China's sovereignty and spreading misinformation. "It is straying further down a dangerous path. The Chinese side will not allow the Philippines to act willfully," Wu told a briefing. "We have responded with legitimate, resolute and restrained actions. The Philippine side should realise that provocations will only do themselves more harm than good, and soliciting foreign support will lead nowhere." The most recent flare-up happened last week when China made use of a water cannon to thwart a Philippine resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal for the troops deployed to monitor a warship purposefully grounded on a reef almost two decades ago. China on Monday issued a warning to the Philippines to behave cautiously and seek dialogue stating that the relations between both countries were at a "crossroads". Marcos said he met his defence and security officials and has been in communication with "friends in the international community". "They have offered to help us on what the Philippines requires to protect and secure our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction while ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific," Marcos said. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines vows countermeasures against attacks by Chinese coastguard; 'will not be cowed into silence'

Bruised and fractured by Tayyip Erdogan's victory in 2023 general elections, Turkey's opposition aims to land a blow in Sunday's local polls, with the future of its biggest hope, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, tied to the outcome.

Turkey local election 2024: Opposition aims to hit back at Erdogan

Two Russian warships from the Pacific Fleet have entered the Red Sea and this comes amid attacks by Yemen's Houthis on Merchant shipping in a region already crowded with Naval vessels. Watch in for more details!

Red Sea Crisis: Russian warships enters Red Sea amid Houthi attacks

Pope Francis presided over a Good Friday service in St Peter's Basilica ahead of a night-time procession at Rome's Colosseum for the most sombre day in the Christian calendar, marking Jesus' death by crucifixion.

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.

Francis will preside at an Easter Vigil service on Saturday and then on Sunday celebrate Easter Mass and read his twice-annual "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and world) message and blessing from the central balcony of St. Peter's.

The 87-year-old pontiff, who is hobbled by mobility and respiratory issues but looked fitter this week, arrived in St Peter's with a wheelchair as he joined cardinals and bishops for Good Friday's Passion of the Lord service.

In previous years, Francis would start it prostrating himself on the marble floor of the basilica, but his physical condition no longer allows him to do so. Instead, he prayed silently in front of the altar from his wheelchair.

The Passion of the Lord features chants in Latin that recount events from Jesus' arrest to his burial, and is one of the few services where the pope does not deliver a homily, leaving it to the preacher of the papal household.

Later on Friday, Francis was set to preside over the "Via Crucis" procession at the Colosseum, in which participants walk around the ancient Roman arena holding a cross, re-enacting Jesus' last hours and stopping to pray and hear meditations.

Francis personally wrote this year's meditations, 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".

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.

Pope Francis presided over a Good Friday service in St Peter's Basilica ahead of a night-time procession at Rome's Colosseum for the most sombre day in the Christian calendar, marking Jesus' death by crucifixion.

Pope Francis presided over a Good Friday service in St Peter's Basilica ahead of a night-time procession at Rome's Colosseum for the most sombre day in the Christian calendar, marking Jesus' death by crucifixion. 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. Francis will preside at an Easter Vigil service on Saturday and then on Sunday celebrate Easter Mass and read his twice-annual "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and world) message and blessing from the central balcony of St. Peter's. The 87-year-old pontiff, who is hobbled by mobility and respiratory issues but looked fitter this week, arrived in St Peter's with a wheelchair as he joined cardinals and bishops for Good Friday's Passion of the Lord service. In previous years, Francis would start it prostrating himself on the marble floor of the basilica, but his physical condition no longer allows him to do so. Instead, he prayed silently in front of the altar from his wheelchair. The Passion of the Lord features chants in Latin that recount events from Jesus' arrest to his burial, and is one of the few services where the pope does not deliver a homily, leaving it to the preacher of the papal household. Later on Friday, Francis was set to preside over the "Via Crucis" procession at the Colosseum, in which participants walk around the ancient Roman arena holding a cross, re-enacting Jesus' last hours and stopping to pray and hear meditations. Francis personally wrote this year's meditations, 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". 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.

Pope leads Good Friday service ahead of Colosseum procession

Jailed gangster turned politician Mukhtar Ansari has died suffering a cardiac arrest in Uttar Pradesh's band after the confirmation of Ansari's death authorities imposed Section 144 across Uttar Pradesh. Watch in for more details!

India: Mukhtar Ansari dies, section 144 imposed across Uttar Pradesh

Italy’s Garisenda tower, which is nowadays known as another “leaning tower” because of its extreme tilting, is on the verge of collapsing, as per authorities. The duo towers are situated in the Northern Italian&nbsp;city of Bologna and were built in the 12th century.

The towers have been leaning (or tilting) at an alarming rate for now, and authorities have come up with a plan similar to the one that shored up the Tower of Pisa.

One of the two titling Garisenda towers is 48 meters high and is about two centuries old. At present, it leans at an angle of four degrees, just a little more than the Pisa tower’s current 3.9-degree slant. Last year, the streets of the city were cordoned off for scientists to examine the area under the tower to find whether there is any evidence of cracking in the ground, concluding that the structure is at “high risk”.

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On Wednesday, Bologna's mayor Matteo Lepore announced that pylons and cables used to save the Tower in Pisa would now be deployed with adapted steel scaffolding to prevent Garisenda Tower&nbsp;from falling.

“This will make it possible to secure the tower,” Lepore told a press conference. He said it could allow the Asinelli Tower, a taller structure that stands next to Garisenda, to reopen to the public.

“In 2025 and 2026 there will be further consolidation and restoration work, which still needs to be planned,” Lepori added.

The entire repair work will cost around 19 million euros (about $20 million) and will take “about six months” to adapt the equipment used for the Tower of Pisa to Garisenda, said Lepore.

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According to a municipality press release, once the two steel pylon structures used in Pisa are erected and adapted to Garisenda, consolidation work will begin on the tower’s masonry. The structure will also be induced with injections of a lime-based mortar mix compatible with the one used in the building’s original construction.

Then cables connecting the pylons to scaffolding attached to the tower would be tightened, a procedure that would decrease stress levels at the tower’s base.

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The Tower of Pisa, which is now the centrepiece of a UNESCO World Heritage site, started leaning in the 1990s. Concerns surrounding its structure's probable fall led to an international effort to stop it from falling to the ground. The rehabilitation process for the tower started in 1993 and took eight whole years to make it intact.&nbsp;

Today the bell tower is a stable monument due to the steel pylons which will hopefully give the Garisenda tower a second life.

(With inputs from agencies)

Italy’s Garisenda tower, which is nowadays known as another “leaning tower” because of its extreme tilting, is on the verge of collapsing, as per authorities. The duo towers are situated in the Northern Italian city of Bologna and were built in the 12th century.

Italy’s Garisenda tower, which is nowadays known as another “leaning tower” because of its extreme tilting, is on the verge of collapsing, as per authorities. The duo towers are situated in the Northern Italian city of Bologna and were built in the 12th century. The towers have been leaning (or tilting) at an alarming rate for now, and authorities have come up with a plan similar to the one that shored up the Tower of Pisa. One of the two titling Garisenda towers is 48 meters high and is about two centuries old. At present, it leans at an angle of four degrees, just a little more than the Pisa tower’s current 3.9-degree slant. Last year, the streets of the city were cordoned off for scientists to examine the area under the tower to find whether there is any evidence of cracking in the ground, concluding that the structure is at “high risk”. Also Read | Flashback Friday | How a Reddit community triggered the 'meme stock' phenomenon On Wednesday, Bologna's mayor Matteo Lepore announced that pylons and cables used to save the Tower in Pisa would now be deployed with adapted steel scaffolding to prevent Garisenda Tower from falling. “This will make it possible to secure the tower,” Lepore told a press conference. He said it could allow the Asinelli Tower, a taller structure that stands next to Garisenda, to reopen to the public. “In 2025 and 2026 there will be further consolidation and restoration work, which still needs to be planned,” Lepori added. The entire repair work will cost around 19 million euros (about $20 million) and will take “about six months” to adapt the equipment used for the Tower of Pisa to Garisenda, said Lepore. Also Read | Controversy erupts as photo of Hamas militants parading woman's body wins award According to a municipality press release, once the two steel pylon structures used in Pisa are erected and adapted to Garisenda, consolidation work will begin on the tower’s masonry. The structure will also be induced with injections of a lime-based mortar mix compatible with the one used in the building’s original construction. Then cables connecting the pylons to scaffolding attached to the tower would be tightened, a procedure that would decrease stress levels at the tower’s base. Also Read | Russia destroys three thermal power plants in Ukraine, says the largest private power firm DTEK The Tower of Pisa, which is now the centrepiece of a UNESCO World Heritage site, started leaning in the 1990s. Concerns surrounding its structure's probable fall led to an international effort to stop it from falling to the ground. The rehabilitation process for the tower started in 1993 and took eight whole years to make it intact. Today the bell tower is a stable monument due to the steel pylons which will hopefully give the Garisenda tower a second life. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy's tilting Garisena tower to be shored up with similar equipment used for the Tower of Pisa

Astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson, earlier this March posted a picture of a U.S. map that shows Florida and America's East and Gulf Coasts underwater on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson, earlier this March posted a picture of a U.S. map that shows Florida and America's East and Gulf Coasts underwater on X, formerly known as Twitter. The post was captioned, "In Florida, at 345 feet, Britton Hill is the highest elevation — the lowest highest elevation in the United States. This makes Florida supremely susceptible to sea-level rise during Climate Change. An objective truth even if you don’t believe in Climate Change. Just Sayin'." Is Florida really drowning? The map is from National Geographic's September 2013 issue, which depicted what the map of different continents would look like if the sea level rose by 216 feet once all of the world's ice melted. Though scientists believe that this scenario is not imminent and it would take over 5000 years for it to become real. However, a faction believes that if we continue emitting greenhouse gases and increasing our carbon footprints it will become Earth's reality far sooner. In Florida, at 345-feet, Britton Hill is the highest elevation — the lowest highest elevation in United States. This makes Florida supremely susceptible to sea-level rise during Climate Change. An objective truth even if you don’t believe in Climate Change. Just Sayin'. pic.twitter.com/bSf34O8pQc — Neil deGrasse Tyson (@neiltyson) March 10, 2024 × Florida is not the only area witnessing the affected, but parts of South America would drown in the sea, and Denmark and the Netherlands would be a small set of islands. David Thornalley, a professor of ocean and climate science at University College London, stated that while this scenario is quite extraordinary, it is possible. "In the long term, even under more moderate emission scenarios, sea level rise after a few hundred years is expected to be in excess of 10 meters [33 feet]. So the picture Neil shows is not that far-fetched, it is simply that this scale of sea-level rise will take centuries to millennia to occur, assuming we don't lower GHG levels," he said. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), by 2100 the sea level will rise a few centimeters but the possibility of it rising 2 meters is still there. Projections by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration say that even a 3-foot rise in sea level will inundate Florida's coastline and New Orleans would drown in the sea. How will the sea level rise by 213 feet? Different ice sheets have differing levels of vulnerability to melting. The Antarctic ice sheet has the potential to raise sea levels by more than 190 feet and is vulnerable to runaway processes that can result in rapid collapse of the ice sheet over centuries, causing a sea-level rise of several meters. Similarly, Greenland's ice sheet could melt and raise sea levels by up to 23 feet.

A part of Florida could drown by 2100 because of sea level rise, map shows

Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton unite for a rare fundraiser in New York City, boosting Democratic support. Watch in for more details!

US: Barack Obama, Bill Clinton back Joe Biden at fundraiser event

French President Emmanuel Macron during a press conference on Thursday (Mar 28) emphasised the need for consensus among G20 members, including Russia, before inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to the group's summit in Brazil in November.&nbsp;

Speaking during a press conference in Brasília with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Macron said, "The meaning of this club is that there must be consensus with the 19 others."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-veto-puts-an-end-to-monitoring-of-uns-north-korea-sanctions-705365">Russian veto puts an end to monitoring of UN's North Korea sanctions</a>

"That (coordinating a joint decision regarding Putin's participation) will be a job for Brazilian diplomacy," said Macron, referring to Brazil, which is the current head of the G20 group.

He added that if "useful", such a meeting "must be done." Macron also warned that division on the matter could potentially scuttle any Russian invitation.

<h2>Why does the G20 need to decide Putin's participation?</h2>

Macron's comments come as Brazil President Lula previously, in September 2023, said that Putin won't be arrested if he attends the Rio de Janeiro meet of the bloc.&nbsp;

The Russian leader has an active International Criminal Court arrest warrant against him over allegations of war crimes, including unlawful deportation and transfer of children during the Russo-Ukrainian War.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-downs-more-than-25-drones-in-latest-overnight-russian-strikes-705184">Ukraine claims it downed 26 drones in latest Russian strikes</a>

The international arrest warrant against Putin and Russian Commissioner for Children's Rights Maria Lvova-Belova was issued in March of last year.

All 124 member states of the ICC can detain and transfer Putin and Lvova-Belova if either sets foot on their territory.&nbsp;Brazil happens to be a signatory to the Rome Statute, which led to the founding of the ICC.

Avoiding possible political controversy and any risk of criminal detention, Putin missed last year's G20 summit in the Indian capital, New Delhi.

Shortly&nbsp;after the contentious statement, Lula, as per Reuters, backtracked and said that Putin's eventual arrest would be up to the justice system and not his government.

"If Putin decides to go to Brazil, it will be the courts who decide whether or not he will be arrested, not me," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron during a press conference on Thursday (Mar 28) emphasised the need for consensus among G20 members, including Russia, before inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to the group's summit in Brazil in November.

French President Emmanuel Macron during a press conference on Thursday (Mar 28) emphasised the need for consensus among G20 members, including Russia, before inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to the group's summit in Brazil in November. Speaking during a press conference in Brasília with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Macron said, "The meaning of this club is that there must be consensus with the 19 others." Also read | Russian veto puts an end to monitoring of UN's North Korea sanctions "That (coordinating a joint decision regarding Putin's participation) will be a job for Brazilian diplomacy," said Macron, referring to Brazil, which is the current head of the G20 group. He added that if "useful", such a meeting "must be done." Macron also warned that division on the matter could potentially scuttle any Russian invitation. Why does the G20 need to decide Putin's participation? Macron's comments come as Brazil President Lula previously, in September 2023, said that Putin won't be arrested if he attends the Rio de Janeiro meet of the bloc. The Russian leader has an active International Criminal Court arrest warrant against him over allegations of war crimes, including unlawful deportation and transfer of children during the Russo-Ukrainian War. Also read | Ukraine claims it downed 26 drones in latest Russian strikes The international arrest warrant against Putin and Russian Commissioner for Children's Rights Maria Lvova-Belova was issued in March of last year. All 124 member states of the ICC can detain and transfer Putin and Lvova-Belova if either sets foot on their territory. Brazil happens to be a signatory to the Rome Statute, which led to the founding of the ICC. Avoiding possible political controversy and any risk of criminal detention, Putin missed last year's G20 summit in the Indian capital, New Delhi. Shortly after the contentious statement, Lula, as per Reuters, backtracked and said that Putin's eventual arrest would be up to the justice system and not his government. "If Putin decides to go to Brazil, it will be the courts who decide whether or not he will be arrested, not me," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin's participation in upcoming G20 meet subject to bloc's consensus, says French President Macron

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa has been barred from running in the country’s upcoming general elections scheduled for May, said the country’s electoral officials&nbsp;on Thursday (Mar 28).&nbsp;

<h2>Election Commission upholds objection</h2>

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) said that it upheld an objection filed against the former president without giving details.&nbsp;

“In the case of former president Zuma, yes, we did receive an objection, which has been upheld,” electoral commission president Mosotho Moepya told reporters.&nbsp;

He added, “The party that has nominated him has been informed.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-court-orders-partial-freeze-on-zumas-accounts-702402">South Africa court orders partial freeze on ex-president Jacob Zuma's accounts</a>

Zuma, 81, has been campaigning for the opposition uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party in an attempt to relaunch his political career ahead of the general election.

The former president has until April 2 to appeal against the decision.&nbsp;

MK spokesman Nhlamulo Ndlhela told AFP the party was “looking at the merit of that objection but we will of course appeal it”.&nbsp;

South Africans will head to polls on May 29 in what is expected to be the most competitive vote since 1994.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is Zuma being barred?</h2>

The former president stepped down in 2018 following corruption allegations after being in power for nearly a decade.&nbsp;

In 2021, he was handed a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court. According to South Africa’s constitution, a person who has been convicted and sentenced to more than 12 months in prison is not allowed to hold public office.&nbsp;

Zuma is also facing charges of corruption over a multi-billion dollar arms deal from the 1990s when he served as the vice president. The former president’s recent backing was also viewed as a threat to the governing African National Congress (ANC).&nbsp;

The request to deregister MK, which is named after ANC’s former military wing, was rejected by South Africa’s electoral body, on Tuesday (Mar 26).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-anc-suspends-former-president-jacob-zuma-684888">South Africa’s ANC suspends former president Jacob Zuma</a>

In January, the ANC suspended the former president from the party.&nbsp;

However, the governing party is also not faring well in the polls ahead of the upcoming elections. The ANC is on the brink of dropping below 50 per cent of the vote for the first time since it came to power at the end of apartheid, reported AFP.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, MK had&nbsp;previously threatened violence&nbsp;if Zuma was barred from contesting the elections.&nbsp;

The former president’s brief imprisonment had sparked riots which claimed more than 350 lives, in the country’s worst violence since the advent of democracy.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa has been barred from running in the country’s upcoming general elections scheduled for May, said the country’s electoral officials on Thursday (Mar 28).

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa has been barred from running in the country’s upcoming general elections scheduled for May, said the country’s electoral officials on Thursday (Mar 28). Election Commission upholds objection The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) said that it upheld an objection filed against the former president without giving details. “In the case of former president Zuma, yes, we did receive an objection, which has been upheld,” electoral commission president Mosotho Moepya told reporters. He added, “The party that has nominated him has been informed.” Also Read | South Africa court orders partial freeze on ex-president Jacob Zuma's accounts Zuma, 81, has been campaigning for the opposition uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party in an attempt to relaunch his political career ahead of the general election. The former president has until April 2 to appeal against the decision. MK spokesman Nhlamulo Ndlhela told AFP the party was “looking at the merit of that objection but we will of course appeal it”. South Africans will head to polls on May 29 in what is expected to be the most competitive vote since 1994. Why is Zuma being barred? The former president stepped down in 2018 following corruption allegations after being in power for nearly a decade. In 2021, he was handed a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court. According to South Africa’s constitution, a person who has been convicted and sentenced to more than 12 months in prison is not allowed to hold public office. Zuma is also facing charges of corruption over a multi-billion dollar arms deal from the 1990s when he served as the vice president. The former president’s recent backing was also viewed as a threat to the governing African National Congress (ANC). The request to deregister MK, which is named after ANC’s former military wing, was rejected by South Africa’s electoral body, on Tuesday (Mar 26). Also Read | South Africa’s ANC suspends former president Jacob Zuma In January, the ANC suspended the former president from the party. However, the governing party is also not faring well in the polls ahead of the upcoming elections. The ANC is on the brink of dropping below 50 per cent of the vote for the first time since it came to power at the end of apartheid, reported AFP. Meanwhile, MK had previously threatened violence if Zuma was barred from contesting the elections. The former president’s brief imprisonment had sparked riots which claimed more than 350 lives, in the country’s worst violence since the advent of democracy. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa: Former president Jacob Zuma barred from running in May election

Top Russian officials have directly accused Ukraine and the West of being involved in the deadly Moscow concert hall attack, after it was claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group. Watch to know more.

Moscow Terror Attack | Russia blames the West and Ukraine for involvement in Moscow attack

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!

BREAKING: US President Joe Biden writes letter to Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif

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