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Hate preachers with radical Islamist views will now be barred from entering the United Kingdom under new plans being drafted by the government amidst a "shocking increase" in extremist activity.&nbsp;

The British officials will identify the most dangerous extremists from countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan and Indonesia and add them to visa warning lists. Under the new plans, the ones on the list will automatically be denied entry into the UK, according to a report by The Daily Telegraph.

Additionally, ministers also believe they may strengthen efforts to prevent those&nbsp;considered&nbsp;"non-conducive to the public good" from entering the UK by utilising already-existing national security capabilities.

This can entail putting people on the blacklist if they have a history of inciting violence or intimidation against democratic institutions or preaching racism.

The move comes after British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivered a dynamic speech from 10 Downing Street in London warning that extremists posed a threat to the UK's democratic and multi-faith values.

"We will also act to prevent people entering this country whose aim is to undermine its values," Sunak said in his speech on Friday.

"The Home Secretary has instructed that if those here on visas choose to spew hate on protests or seek to intimidate people we will remove their right to be here," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunak-warns-of-threats-to-british-democracy-takes-swipe-at-pro-palestinian-mp-george-galloway-695819">Also read: Sunak warns of 'threats' to British democracy, takes swipe at pro-Palestinian MP George Galloway</a>

He then also appealed to the demonstrators staging protests against the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip to be sure that their actions were not commandeered by extremists.

"The time has now come for us all to stand together to combat the forces of division and beat this poison. We must face down the extremists who would tear us apart," he said, warning that "Islamist extremists and the far right feed off and embolden each other".

An official review by Lord Walney, the government's independent adviser on political violence and disruption, implores ministers to address the increasing threats posed by Left-wing fringe organisations that have sided with Islamist extremists during pro-Palestine demonstrations held across the United Kingdom, as per The Daily Telegraph&nbsp;report.

"One of the conclusions of my review is to look at and understand the threat from anti-democratic far-Left groups, alongside that posed by Islamists and the far right... You are seeing an unholy alliance between far-Left groups and some of the Islamist extremism that has been seen on the marches," he told the newspaper.

Walney's report is with the UK Home Office and will be published later this month.

"Extremism has no place in our society and we will not tolerate tactics that set out to intimidate, threaten or cause disruption to the law-abiding majority," a Home Office spokesperson said.

"In recent months, we have also witnessed a small number of protestors display violent and hateful behaviour, and the police have our full support in tackling extremism and hate crime. We are considering the report's recommendations extremely carefully and will respond in due course," the spokesperson said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hate preachers with radical Islamist views will now be barred from entering the United Kingdom under new plans being drafted by the government amidst a "shocking increase" in extremist activity.

Hate preachers with radical Islamist views will now be barred from entering the United Kingdom under new plans being drafted by the government amidst a "shocking increase" in extremist activity. The British officials will identify the most dangerous extremists from countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan and Indonesia and add them to visa warning lists. Under the new plans, the ones on the list will automatically be denied entry into the UK, according to a report by The Daily Telegraph. Additionally, ministers also believe they may strengthen efforts to prevent those considered "non-conducive to the public good" from entering the UK by utilising already-existing national security capabilities. This can entail putting people on the blacklist if they have a history of inciting violence or intimidation against democratic institutions or preaching racism. The move comes after British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivered a dynamic speech from 10 Downing Street in London warning that extremists posed a threat to the UK's democratic and multi-faith values. "We will also act to prevent people entering this country whose aim is to undermine its values," Sunak said in his speech on Friday. "The Home Secretary has instructed that if those here on visas choose to spew hate on protests or seek to intimidate people we will remove their right to be here," he said. Also read: Sunak warns of 'threats' to British democracy, takes swipe at pro-Palestinian MP George Galloway He then also appealed to the demonstrators staging protests against the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip to be sure that their actions were not commandeered by extremists. "The time has now come for us all to stand together to combat the forces of division and beat this poison. We must face down the extremists who would tear us apart," he said, warning that "Islamist extremists and the far right feed off and embolden each other". An official review by Lord Walney, the government's independent adviser on political violence and disruption, implores ministers to address the increasing threats posed by Left-wing fringe organisations that have sided with Islamist extremists during pro-Palestine demonstrations held across the United Kingdom, as per The Daily Telegraph report. "One of the conclusions of my review is to look at and understand the threat from anti-democratic far-Left groups, alongside that posed by Islamists and the far right... You are seeing an unholy alliance between far-Left groups and some of the Islamist extremism that has been seen on the marches," he told the newspaper. Walney's report is with the UK Home Office and will be published later this month. "Extremism has no place in our society and we will not tolerate tactics that set out to intimidate, threaten or cause disruption to the law-abiding majority," a Home Office spokesperson said. "In recent months, we have also witnessed a small number of protestors display violent and hateful behaviour, and the police have our full support in tackling extremism and hate crime. We are considering the report's recommendations extremely carefully and will respond in due course," the spokesperson said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK to bar entry of hate preachers amid 'shocking increase' in extremist activity: Report

South Korean and US militaries kicked off their spring drills on Monday (March 4) with twice the number of troops joining compared to last year, officials said, as the allies seek to better counter North Korea's increasing nuclear and missile threats.

South Korea and US begin large annual military drills as Pyongyang's rising nuclear threats

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo".&nbsp;

Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion.

"A railway bridge over the Chapaevka River in Russia's Samara region was blown up. On 4 March 2024, at around 6:00 am (0200 GMT), the bridge was damaged by blowing up its support structures," Ukraine's military intelligence said.

Russia was transporting ammunition from a plant in the town of Chapayevsk via the railway line, it said.

"Given the nature of the damage to the railway bridge, its use will not be possible for a long time," it added.

Earlier, Russia's railway operator announced that "an intervention by non-authorised persons" had caused the explosion, however, it said that no one was injured.

"Rail traffic is suspended for the moment at this section," it said.

"An explosive device damaged a pillar on a rail bridge" over the Chapaevka river, Russia's official TASS agency quoted a source in the rescue services as saying.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-demands-explanation-from-germany-after-call-recording-over-ukraine-gets-leaked-696199">Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap</a>

<h2>Russian drone strike kills 10 in Ukrainian city of Odesa</h2>

Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa killed at least 10 people.&nbsp;

The deceased victims also included a four-month-old baby and a two-year-old, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Sunday was declared a day of mourning in Odesa. “Today, Odesa and the region are mourning the victims of the Russian attack,” said the Ukrainian regional official. He added, “It is a great pain not only for the Odesa region, but for the whole of Ukraine.”

<h2>Zelensky calls for Western air defence systems</h2>

Zelensky, on Saturday, urged Western countries to rapidly deliver more air-defence systems following a barrage of Russian strikes in recent days.&nbsp;

Overnight attacks, between Friday and Saturday, on frontline regions of Kharkiv in the northeast and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south killed another three people, reported AFP citing Ukrainian officials.&nbsp;

“We need more air defences from our partners. We need to strengthen the Ukrainian air shield to add more protection for our people from Russian terror,” said the Ukrainian president, in a post on social media.&nbsp;

He added, “More air-defence systems and more missiles for air-defence systems save lives.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo". Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion.

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo". Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion. "A railway bridge over the Chapaevka River in Russia's Samara region was blown up. On 4 March 2024, at around 6:00 am (0200 GMT), the bridge was damaged by blowing up its support structures," Ukraine's military intelligence said. Russia was transporting ammunition from a plant in the town of Chapayevsk via the railway line, it said. "Given the nature of the damage to the railway bridge, its use will not be possible for a long time," it added. Earlier, Russia's railway operator announced that "an intervention by non-authorised persons" had caused the explosion, however, it said that no one was injured. "Rail traffic is suspended for the moment at this section," it said. "An explosive device damaged a pillar on a rail bridge" over the Chapaevka river, Russia's official TASS agency quoted a source in the rescue services as saying. Also read: Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap Russian drone strike kills 10 in Ukrainian city of Odesa Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa killed at least 10 people. The deceased victims also included a four-month-old baby and a two-year-old, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Sunday was declared a day of mourning in Odesa. “Today, Odesa and the region are mourning the victims of the Russian attack,” said the Ukrainian regional official. He added, “It is a great pain not only for the Odesa region, but for the whole of Ukraine.” Zelensky calls for Western air defence systems Zelensky, on Saturday, urged Western countries to rapidly deliver more air-defence systems following a barrage of Russian strikes in recent days. Overnight attacks, between Friday and Saturday, on frontline regions of Kharkiv in the northeast and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south killed another three people, reported AFP citing Ukrainian officials. “We need more air defences from our partners. We need to strengthen the Ukrainian air shield to add more protection for our people from Russian terror,” said the Ukrainian president, in a post on social media. He added, “More air-defence systems and more missiles for air-defence systems save lives.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia

Former US President Donald Trump mistakenly referred to Barack Obama as Joe Biden in a recent rally in Virginia, sparking concerns about the age and mental acuity of the likely Republican presidential nominee.

US: Donald Trump mixes up President Biden and President Obama

For the second time&nbsp;this year, former United States president and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump confused President Joe Biden for his predecessor Barack Obama. This time around the gaffe happened during a rally in the US state of Virginia over the weekend.&nbsp;

<h2>Obama or Biden?</h2>

Addressing a rally in Virginia over the weekend, the former president confused Biden who once served as the vice president in the Obama administration and said how the Russian president has “so little respect for Obama” that he is threatening nuclear war.&nbsp;

“And (Russian President Vladimir) Putin…has so little respect for Obama that he is starting to throw around the nuclear word. You heard that. Nuclear. He’s starting to talk nuclear weapons today. And I was waiting for that to happen,” said Trump, presumably talking about Biden.&nbsp;

He added, “We have a fool…as a president.” The video also shows that the crowd previously heard cheering and clapping went silent after the former president’s gaffe.&nbsp;

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A tired looking, sweaty, and confused Donald Trump once again confuses President Obama with President Biden. <a href="https://t.co/6OGN5q5GdE">pic.twitter.com/6OGN5q5GdE</a>
— Mike Sington (@MikeSington) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeSington/status/1764273621479166426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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It is also worth noting&nbsp;that the goof-up took place days after Trump called on Biden to take a cognitive test slamming the Democrat for what he called “terrible decisions”. He also boasted about how he has “aced” such a test twice himself.&nbsp;

“Crooked Joe Biden must take a Cognitive Test. Maybe that way we would be able to find out why he makes such terrible decisions,” Trump said in a post on his social media platform Truth Social, on Thursday (Feb 29).&nbsp;

He added, “All Presidents, or people wanting to become President, should mandatorily take this test!”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-refers-xi-jinping-as-head-of-russia-in-yet-another-goof-up-693736">Biden refers to Xi Jinping as ‘head of Russia’ in yet another goof-up</a> 
 
According to a report by Forbes, this was the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-when-he-mixes-up-names-it-is-on-purpose-690619">eighth time</a> that Trump seemingly confused Biden and Obama in less than a year starting in September.&nbsp;

Trump’s gaffe also came a day after Biden, twice, confused Ukraine and Gaza while announcing that the US would airdrop humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the besieged enclave.&nbsp;

<h2>American voters concerned about Biden’s age</h2>

As the US gears up for the presidential election in November, likely to be a rematch between Trump and Biden, polls have shown that most voters have expressed concerns about the incumbent president’s age.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-ken-buck-calls-on-kamala-harris-to-oust-biden-for-being-too-old-incapable-694533">Republican Ken Buck calls on Kamala Harris to oust Biden for being ‘too old', ‘incapable’</a>

At 81, Biden is the oldest president in US history and would be 86 by the end of a second term, if he wins. However, Trump, who is around three and a half years younger than his successor, was also the oldest president in American history by the end of his term.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

For the second time this year, former United States president and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump confused President Joe Biden for his predecessor Barack Obama.

For the second time this year, former United States president and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump confused President Joe Biden for his predecessor Barack Obama. This time around the gaffe happened during a rally in the US state of Virginia over the weekend. Obama or Biden? Addressing a rally in Virginia over the weekend, the former president confused Biden who once served as the vice president in the Obama administration and said how the Russian president has “so little respect for Obama” that he is threatening nuclear war. “And (Russian President Vladimir) Putin…has so little respect for Obama that he is starting to throw around the nuclear word. You heard that. Nuclear. He’s starting to talk nuclear weapons today. And I was waiting for that to happen,” said Trump, presumably talking about Biden. He added, “We have a fool…as a president.” The video also shows that the crowd previously heard cheering and clapping went silent after the former president’s gaffe. A tired looking, sweaty, and confused Donald Trump once again confuses President Obama with President Biden. pic.twitter.com/6OGN5q5GdE — Mike Sington (@MikeSington) March 3, 2024 × It is also worth noting that the goof-up took place days after Trump called on Biden to take a cognitive test slamming the Democrat for what he called “terrible decisions”. He also boasted about how he has “aced” such a test twice himself. “Crooked Joe Biden must take a Cognitive Test. Maybe that way we would be able to find out why he makes such terrible decisions,” Trump said in a post on his social media platform Truth Social, on Thursday (Feb 29). He added, “All Presidents, or people wanting to become President, should mandatorily take this test!” Also Read | Biden refers to Xi Jinping as ‘head of Russia’ in yet another goof-up According to a report by Forbes, this was the eighth time that Trump seemingly confused Biden and Obama in less than a year starting in September. Trump’s gaffe also came a day after Biden, twice, confused Ukraine and Gaza while announcing that the US would airdrop humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the besieged enclave. American voters concerned about Biden’s age As the US gears up for the presidential election in November, likely to be a rematch between Trump and Biden, polls have shown that most voters have expressed concerns about the incumbent president’s age. Also Read | Republican Ken Buck calls on Kamala Harris to oust Biden for being ‘too old', ‘incapable’ At 81, Biden is the oldest president in US history and would be 86 by the end of a second term, if he wins. However, Trump, who is around three and a half years younger than his successor, was also the oldest president in American history by the end of his term. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Donald Trump confuses Joe Biden and Barack Obama again during rally speech in Virginia

A top member of Israel's wartime Cabinet Benny Gantz is meeting with US officials in Washington while talks are under way in Egypt to broker a ceasefire in Gaza before the Muslim holy month of Ramadan begins next week.

Israel war cabinet member Benny Gantz in Washington to discuss Gaza ceasefire

Israel War: Netanyahu's political rival Benny Gantz in US to discuss Gaza ceasefire

US military cargo planes have air-dropped food into Gaza, in the first of series of aid drops as aid agencies criticise Israel for blocking access to the besieged and bombarded strip.

Israel war: Tank shelling in North Gaza, air strikes in Rafah and Kahn Younis

International connectivity to Haiti has been restored. It was disrupted on Sunday because of violent clashes in the capital that damaged communications infrastructure. As per&nbsp;Maarten Boute, chairperson of&nbsp;Digicel, one of the main telecoms providers in Haiti, the company's field teams have fully restored the connection on Sunday afternoon.

This comes as several thousand inmates escaped from Haiti's main prison in the capital, Port-au-Prince, after an overnight violent attack. As per reports, the attack on Saturday (March 2) led to the death of at least a dozen people. Hundreds of inmates may have escaped from another facility known as Croix des Bouquets after a similar attack. However, the numbers are not clear yet.

<h2>Ongoing violence in Haiti</h2>

Pierre Esperance of the National Network for the Defense of Human Rights, an NGO, reports that following the overnight attack, only about 100 of the National Penitentiary's roughly 3,800 inmates remained inside.&nbsp;

In conversation with AFP, he mentioned seeing numerous prisoners' bodies and wounded individuals in the aftermath of the attack.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-issues-us-sharpest-rebuke-yet-calls-out-israel-for-the-catastrophe-says-it-must-do-more-696260">Kamala Harris issues US' sharpest rebuke yet, calls out Israel for the 'catastrophe', says it 'must do more'</a>

An AFP journalist who visited the prison observed around a dozen bodies outside the facility, some displaying wounds from gunfire or other projectiles. Inside, the prison was nearly deserted, with only a few remaining inmates.

The Haitian government, in a statement, reported that there was another assault on another facility known as Croix des Bouquets. There, the police attempted to repel the gang and the attempt resulted in several injuries among both the prison staff and inmates.

As per Esperance, it remains unclear how many inmates escaped from the second prison, which housed 1,450 inmates.

The assault, as per AFP, occurred amid a recent surge in violence in Port-au-Prince, where since Thursday heavily armed gangs controlling much of the city have been unleashing chaos. These gangs are reportedly seeking the removal of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has been at the helm of the crisis-ridden Caribbean nation since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021.

Watch |&nbsp;Haiti violence claims lives of at least 4 police officers

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<h2>Who has escaped?</h2>

Local media reports suggest that prominent gang leaders and individuals implicated in Moise's assassination were among those detained in the main prison, situated just a few hundred meters from the National Palace.&nbsp;

According to the Haitian daily Le Nouvelliste, the prison had been under surveillance by the assailants via drones since Thursday before the attack occurred on Saturday evening.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gun-battles-rage-in-haiti-as-gang-leader-pushes-for-pms-ouster-695610">Gun battles rage in Haiti as gang leader pushes for PM's ouster</a>

In a video, gang leader Jimmy Cherisier, known as Barbecue, stated that armed groups in Haiti were collaborating to pressure Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign.&nbsp;

As the situation in Haiti escalates, Prime Minister Henry's whereabouts remain uncertain, with reports indicating he was in Kenya on Friday, seeking support for an international police assistance mission led by Nairobi.&nbsp;

Haiti, already grappling with longstanding turmoil exacerbated by the 2021 presidential assassination, continues to face political instability. No elections have been held since 2016 and with the presidency vacant, protesters&nbsp;have demanded Henry's resignation per a political agreement requiring polls and his transfer of power to newly elected officials by February 7, 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

International connectivity to Haiti has been restored. It was disrupted on Sunday because of violent clashes in the capital that damaged communications infrastructure.

International connectivity to Haiti has been restored. It was disrupted on Sunday because of violent clashes in the capital that damaged communications infrastructure. As per Maarten Boute, chairperson of Digicel, one of the main telecoms providers in Haiti, the company's field teams have fully restored the connection on Sunday afternoon. This comes as several thousand inmates escaped from Haiti's main prison in the capital, Port-au-Prince, after an overnight violent attack. As per reports, the attack on Saturday (March 2) led to the death of at least a dozen people. Hundreds of inmates may have escaped from another facility known as Croix des Bouquets after a similar attack. However, the numbers are not clear yet. Ongoing violence in Haiti Pierre Esperance of the National Network for the Defense of Human Rights, an NGO, reports that following the overnight attack, only about 100 of the National Penitentiary's roughly 3,800 inmates remained inside. In conversation with AFP, he mentioned seeing numerous prisoners' bodies and wounded individuals in the aftermath of the attack. Also read | Kamala Harris issues US' sharpest rebuke yet, calls out Israel for the 'catastrophe', says it 'must do more' An AFP journalist who visited the prison observed around a dozen bodies outside the facility, some displaying wounds from gunfire or other projectiles. Inside, the prison was nearly deserted, with only a few remaining inmates. The Haitian government, in a statement, reported that there was another assault on another facility known as Croix des Bouquets. There, the police attempted to repel the gang and the attempt resulted in several injuries among both the prison staff and inmates. As per Esperance, it remains unclear how many inmates escaped from the second prison, which housed 1,450 inmates. The assault, as per AFP, occurred amid a recent surge in violence in Port-au-Prince, where since Thursday heavily armed gangs controlling much of the city have been unleashing chaos. These gangs are reportedly seeking the removal of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has been at the helm of the crisis-ridden Caribbean nation since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021. Watch | Haiti violence claims lives of at least 4 police officers Who has escaped? Local media reports suggest that prominent gang leaders and individuals implicated in Moise's assassination were among those detained in the main prison, situated just a few hundred meters from the National Palace. According to the Haitian daily Le Nouvelliste, the prison had been under surveillance by the assailants via drones since Thursday before the attack occurred on Saturday evening. Also Read | Gun battles rage in Haiti as gang leader pushes for PM's ouster In a video, gang leader Jimmy Cherisier, known as Barbecue, stated that armed groups in Haiti were collaborating to pressure Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign. As the situation in Haiti escalates, Prime Minister Henry's whereabouts remain uncertain, with reports indicating he was in Kenya on Friday, seeking support for an international police assistance mission led by Nairobi. Haiti, already grappling with longstanding turmoil exacerbated by the 2021 presidential assassination, continues to face political instability. No elections have been held since 2016 and with the presidency vacant, protesters have demanded Henry's resignation per a political agreement requiring polls and his transfer of power to newly elected officials by February 7, 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti jailbreak: International connectivity back after almost 4,000 inmates escape prison

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Denis Villeneuve says Florence Pugh's character will flourish in Dune Messiah

A 16-year-old Palestinian was killed by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah, said the Palestinian health ministry, on Monday (Mar 4). This comes amid reports that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) swept into the Palestinians’ administrative capital overnight in what is being called their biggest raid into the city in years.&nbsp;

<h2>Palestinian teenager killed in West Bank refugee camp</h2>

The Palestinian health ministry identified the 16-year-old boy as Mustafa Abu Shalbak who was said to be fatally shot by the Israeli forces when they raided Am’ari refugee camp in Ramallah.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel War: Gaza truce talks in Cairo as heavy fighting rages

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A report by Al Jazeera citing witnesses said that as confrontations broke out between Israeli forces and the Palestinians protesting the raid, the IDF soldiers fired live bullets during which Shalbak was shot in the neck and chest.&nbsp;

He was declared dead after being transferred to the Palestine Medical Complex.&nbsp;

<h2>Biggest Ramallah raid in years, dozens arrested</h2>

A report by Reuters citing witnesses said Israeli forces drove dozens of military vehicles into the city overnight in Ramallah which is also the headquarters of the Palestinian Authority led by President Mahmoud Abbas.&nbsp;

Additionally, Israeli forces tore up a main road in the West Bank city of Tulkarm during a raid there, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vp-kamala-harris-to-meet-israeli-war-cabinet-member-who-was-rebuked-by-netanyahu-696482">US VP Kamala Harris to meet Israeli war cabinet member who was rebuked by Netanyahu</a>

The Palestinian news agency WAFA said Israeli forces also stormed the West Bank city of Nablus and blew up a house.&nbsp;

The residence supposedly belonged to a man accused of carrying out an attack which led to the death of a British-Israeli mother and her two daughters in April in the occupied Palestinian territory.&nbsp;

The man, Moaz al-Masri who Israel accused was killed by IDF soldiers last May.&nbsp;

Israeli forces, which conducted overnight raids, arrested 55 Palestinians, according to the Palestinian Prisoner’s Society.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Palestinian organisation also said that the arrest operation was concentrated in the Hebron governorate where nearly two dozen people were detained.&nbsp;

<h2>Violence in West Bank</h2>

Since the Palestinian militant group Hamas’ terror attack on southern Israel on October 7 which triggered the ongoing war in Gaza, there has been a major surge in violence in the occupied West Bank as well.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gaza-war-israel-boycotts-cairo-talks-with-hamas-over-unknown-fate-of-hostages-696213">Israel-Gaza war: Israel 'boycotts' Cairo talks with Hamas over unknown fate of hostages</a>

The total number of arrests since the beginning of the war has risen to about 7,400, said the Palestinian Prisoner’s Society.

At least 400 people have been killed in the West Bank amid clashes with Israeli forces and settlers and with IDF soldiers conducting regular raids across the Palestinian territories it occupied in 1967, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A 16-year-old Palestinian was killed by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah, said the Palestinian health ministry, on Monday (Mar 4). This comes amid reports that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) swept into the Palestinians’ administrative capital overnight in what is being called their biggest raid into the city in years.

A 16-year-old Palestinian was killed by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah, said the Palestinian health ministry, on Monday (Mar 4). This comes amid reports that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) swept into the Palestinians’ administrative capital overnight in what is being called their biggest raid into the city in years. Palestinian teenager killed in West Bank refugee camp The Palestinian health ministry identified the 16-year-old boy as Mustafa Abu Shalbak who was said to be fatally shot by the Israeli forces when they raided Am’ari refugee camp in Ramallah. WATCH | Israel War: Gaza truce talks in Cairo as heavy fighting rages A report by Al Jazeera citing witnesses said that as confrontations broke out between Israeli forces and the Palestinians protesting the raid, the IDF soldiers fired live bullets during which Shalbak was shot in the neck and chest. He was declared dead after being transferred to the Palestine Medical Complex. Biggest Ramallah raid in years, dozens arrested A report by Reuters citing witnesses said Israeli forces drove dozens of military vehicles into the city overnight in Ramallah which is also the headquarters of the Palestinian Authority led by President Mahmoud Abbas. Additionally, Israeli forces tore up a main road in the West Bank city of Tulkarm during a raid there, reported Reuters. Also Read | US VP Kamala Harris to meet Israeli war cabinet member who was rebuked by Netanyahu The Palestinian news agency WAFA said Israeli forces also stormed the West Bank city of Nablus and blew up a house. The residence supposedly belonged to a man accused of carrying out an attack which led to the death of a British-Israeli mother and her two daughters in April in the occupied Palestinian territory. The man, Moaz al-Masri who Israel accused was killed by IDF soldiers last May. Israeli forces, which conducted overnight raids, arrested 55 Palestinians, according to the Palestinian Prisoner’s Society. In a statement, the Palestinian organisation also said that the arrest operation was concentrated in the Hebron governorate where nearly two dozen people were detained. Violence in West Bank Since the Palestinian militant group Hamas’ terror attack on southern Israel on October 7 which triggered the ongoing war in Gaza, there has been a major surge in violence in the occupied West Bank as well. Also Read | Israel-Gaza war: Israel 'boycotts' Cairo talks with Hamas over unknown fate of hostages The total number of arrests since the beginning of the war has risen to about 7,400, said the Palestinian Prisoner’s Society. At least 400 people have been killed in the West Bank amid clashes with Israeli forces and settlers and with IDF soldiers conducting regular raids across the Palestinian territories it occupied in 1967, reported Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian teenager killed as Israel reportedly conducts biggest raid in West Bank’s Ramallah

A Brazilian-Spanish couple, traveling through Asia on a motorcycle, faced a horrifying ordeal in Jharkhand's Dumka district last week. The woman, a vlogger, was gang-raped while her partner was beaten. The authorities are investigating the vicious criminal attack that occurred last Friday night.

Confirming the distressing incident, the Brazilian embassy in New Delhi issued a statement expressing deep concern over the plight of the couple. The embassy revealed that the victims received urgent medical attention and promptly reported the crime to the local authorities. In response, the authorities acted swiftly, identifying suspects and apprehending three out of the seven individuals sought in connection with the crime.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-spanish-tourist-recounts-harrowing-gang-rape-by-seven-four-arrested-so-far-696113">Jharkhand: Spanish tourist recounts harrowing gang-rape by seven, four arrested so far</a>

"The Brazilian embassy in New Delhi has received information that a Brazilian citizen - with dual Spanish nationality - and her husband, a Spanish citizen, were victims of a serious criminal attack in Dumka district, Jharkhand state, north-east India, this weekend. According to the information gathered so far, the couple received medical attention and reported the crime to the police authorities, who identified the suspects and arrested three of the seven wanted", said a statement.&nbsp;

Additionally, due to the victims' dual nationality, the Brazilian embassy coordinated with the Spanish embassy in New Delhi to ensure comprehensive support for the affected couple.

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"Immediately after learning of the incident, the Brazilian embassy in New Delhi contacted the Brazilian citizen and the local authorities. At the same time, given the information about dual nationality, the Brazilian embassy liaised with the Spanish embassy, which said it had offered the couple all the consular assistance available", pointed the statement.

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The Brazilian embassy reiterated its commitment to providing all necessary assistance and closely monitoring developments in the case.

"The Brazilian embassy in New Delhi reiterates that it will continue to be available to provide all appropriate assistance and monitor all developments in the case, in close coordination with the Spanish and Indian authorities".

A Brazilian-Spanish couple, traveling through Asia on a motorcycle, faced a horrifying ordeal in Jharkhand's Dumka district last week. The woman, a vlogger, was gang-raped while her partner was beaten.

A Brazilian-Spanish couple, traveling through Asia on a motorcycle, faced a horrifying ordeal in Jharkhand's Dumka district last week. The woman, a vlogger, was gang-raped while her partner was beaten. The authorities are investigating the vicious criminal attack that occurred last Friday night. Confirming the distressing incident, the Brazilian embassy in New Delhi issued a statement expressing deep concern over the plight of the couple. The embassy revealed that the victims received urgent medical attention and promptly reported the crime to the local authorities. In response, the authorities acted swiftly, identifying suspects and apprehending three out of the seven individuals sought in connection with the crime. Also Read | Jharkhand: Spanish tourist recounts harrowing gang-rape by seven, four arrested so far "The Brazilian embassy in New Delhi has received information that a Brazilian citizen - with dual Spanish nationality - and her husband, a Spanish citizen, were victims of a serious criminal attack in Dumka district, Jharkhand state, north-east India, this weekend. According to the information gathered so far, the couple received medical attention and reported the crime to the police authorities, who identified the suspects and arrested three of the seven wanted", said a statement. Additionally, due to the victims' dual nationality, the Brazilian embassy coordinated with the Spanish embassy in New Delhi to ensure comprehensive support for the affected couple. Also Read | Indian Navy to boost security, commission INS Jatayu at Lakshadweep's Minicoy islands amid Male row "Immediately after learning of the incident, the Brazilian embassy in New Delhi contacted the Brazilian citizen and the local authorities. At the same time, given the information about dual nationality, the Brazilian embassy liaised with the Spanish embassy, which said it had offered the couple all the consular assistance available", pointed the statement. Watch | India seizes dual-use items bound for Pakistan from China × The Brazilian embassy reiterated its commitment to providing all necessary assistance and closely monitoring developments in the case. "The Brazilian embassy in New Delhi reiterates that it will continue to be available to provide all appropriate assistance and monitor all developments in the case, in close coordination with the Spanish and Indian authorities".

Brazilian-Spanish tourist’s gang-rape in Jharkhand: Embassies reach out, 3 apprehended

Danish Parliament Speaker Soren Gade Jensen, currently on a visit to India, extolled the democratic values shared between Denmark and India. In an interview with our diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal, Jensen emphasized the significance of India's democratic stature, stating, "Denmark and India, Europe and India because we share the same values, we are democracies." He further underscored India's democratic prowess, highlighting, "I think it's amazing that nearly a billion people they can have a vote in India...I think India sets an example for many developing countries to show that it is possible to have a democracy."

Danish Parliament speaker Soren hails India's Democracy; Hopes for early conclusion of India EU FTA

At least a dozen people died as gang members attacked the main prison in Haiti's capital, triggering a breakout by several thousand inmates.

Haiti Violence: Massive upsurge in gang violence

The Thai prime minister has announced the country helped facilitate the transfer of around 900 Chinese Nationals back to China. According to reports the Chinese Nationals were trapped in scam centers near the Myanmar border. The rescue operation started on the 29th of February and went on for 3 days.

Thailand: 900 scam factory Chinese victims rescued near Myanmar border

South Korea and US begin large annual military drills

China has kicked off its 14th annual parliamentary meetings in which investors watch closely for signals of an economic stimulus. The meetings known as the two sessions release more details on policy plans such as the GDP Target for the year.

China: What could be in the government work report?

France's Senate adopted a bill to enshrine a woman’s right to an abortion in the constitution, clearing a key hurdle for legislation promised by President Emmanuel Macron in response to a rollback in abortion rights in the United States.

France to make abortion a constitutional right

Australia hosts the first leg of the Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup Championship. Watch the video to know more.

National Arabian Horse Championship with the world's finest thoroughbred horse breeds begins

South Korean and U.S. militaries kicked off their spring drills on Monday (March 4) with twice the number of troops joining compared to last year, officials said, as the allies seek to better counter North Korea's increasing nuclear and missile threats.

Escalation tensions in Korean peninsula: South Korea, US begin large military drills

US Vice President Kamala Harris called for a proposed six-week ceasefire deal in the Israel-Hamas war to be accepted, while criticizing Israel over insufficient aid deliveries into Gaza.

Israel War: US Vice President Kamala Harris calls for 'immediate ceasefire' in Gaza

In a shocking incident on a beach in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW), a great white shark washed up ashore. The 3.5-metre shark was seen swimming along the Kingscliff beach on the Tweed Coast on Monday (Mar 4) morning as lifeguards tracked its progress.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The female shark was reportedly seen struggling along the shore before it washed up on the beach. Subsequently, a veterinary team from Sea World on the Gold Coast were called to assess the shark.&nbsp;

The shark was later euthanised and a bulldozer was called to safely carry it away for necropsy. Sea World shark bay supervisor Siobhan Houlihan told ABC that the shark was identified as a mature female. &nbsp;

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“We’ve come down to see if there’s anything that we can do to help this animal,” said Houlihan. “Unfortunately, as we’ve got here, she’s beached herself and is not in a good way.”

She said that the team would conduct a “full necropsy” to ascertain what caused this unfortunate event to take place. Houlihan also noted that it was extremely unusual for sharks to beach themselves.&nbsp;

The Sea World, in a statement, said that the shark had been in poor condition and the thrashing behaviour of the shark observed before it got beached was not normal for the species.&nbsp;

“Sadly, the shark was in a poor condition after beaching and the Sea World veterinary team administered medications to make the shark comfortable while it was humanely euthanised,” said a Sea World spokesperson, as quoted by the Guardian.&nbsp;

“The shark appeared to have underlying health issues, with the thrashing behaviour seen in the shallows prior to the beaching not typical for the species,” the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Shocking’</h2>

The rare sight attracted a large group of beachgoers given that while sharks are often spotted in the waters around Kingscliff beach, but it was very unusual to see one on the beach.&nbsp;

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“I saw the shark in the shallows getting washed around, I could see it flapping in the water,” Kingscliff resident Rhonda Mitchell, 78, who was on a morning walk when she spotted the shark, told ABC.&nbsp;

She added, “It is very unusual to see a shark up close, you know they’re there, but you don't usually see them.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In a shocking incident on a beach in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW), a great white shark washed up ashore. The 3.5-metre shark was seen swimming along the Kingscliff beach on the Tweed Coast on Monday (Mar 4) morning as lifeguards tracked its progress.

In a shocking incident on a beach in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW), a great white shark washed up ashore. The 3.5-metre shark was seen swimming along the Kingscliff beach on the Tweed Coast on Monday (Mar 4) morning as lifeguards tracked its progress. What happened? The female shark was reportedly seen struggling along the shore before it washed up on the beach. Subsequently, a veterinary team from Sea World on the Gold Coast were called to assess the shark. The shark was later euthanised and a bulldozer was called to safely carry it away for necropsy. Sea World shark bay supervisor Siobhan Houlihan told ABC that the shark was identified as a mature female. Also Read | Malaysia may launch new search 10 years after disappearance of flight MH370 as demand swells “We’ve come down to see if there’s anything that we can do to help this animal,” said Houlihan. “Unfortunately, as we’ve got here, she’s beached herself and is not in a good way.” She said that the team would conduct a “full necropsy” to ascertain what caused this unfortunate event to take place. Houlihan also noted that it was extremely unusual for sharks to beach themselves. The Sea World, in a statement, said that the shark had been in poor condition and the thrashing behaviour of the shark observed before it got beached was not normal for the species. “Sadly, the shark was in a poor condition after beaching and the Sea World veterinary team administered medications to make the shark comfortable while it was humanely euthanised,” said a Sea World spokesperson, as quoted by the Guardian. “The shark appeared to have underlying health issues, with the thrashing behaviour seen in the shallows prior to the beaching not typical for the species,” the spokesperson added. ‘Shocking’ The rare sight attracted a large group of beachgoers given that while sharks are often spotted in the waters around Kingscliff beach, but it was very unusual to see one on the beach. Also Read | Massive bushes inundate Utah town after ‘tumbleweed storm’ “I saw the shark in the shallows getting washed around, I could see it flapping in the water,” Kingscliff resident Rhonda Mitchell, 78, who was on a morning walk when she spotted the shark, told ABC. She added, “It is very unusual to see a shark up close, you know they’re there, but you don't usually see them.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Shocking’: Great white shark washes up on Australian beach

Thousands of Alexei Navalny supporters queued to lay flowers and pay tribute to the dead opposition leader, in a significant show of support for the anti-corruption campaigner.

Thousands of mourners continue to visit Alexei Navalny's grave

A high court might rule on Trump vs Anderson, the case brought by the former president after he was struck from Colorado's ballot in November, a decision that was upheld by the state's supreme court.

US court might rule on Donald Trump's Colorado Supreme Court Case

Saudi Arabia’s request to President Emmanuel Macron to erect an “Olympic village” by Napoleon’s tomb, Les Invalides, has set the cat among the pigeons in French politics.

Both radical left and right-wing parties in the country have vehemently opposed the proposal after a minister confirmed that Paris was looking favourably at Riyadh’s request to install a national pavilion, another push by the Arab nation to cement its position as the global sporting hub.

<h2>Why Les Invalides?</h2>

Olympic archery events are slated to be held in the long Esplanade Park of Les Invalides. Some events will be held by the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Macron's administration kept mum on the Saudi proposal until Nathalie Serre, a conservative MP, demanded information in a ­parliamentary question. Answering the question, French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed that the government was giving it a “sympathetic view”.

“Saudi Arabia is committed to ­respecting the security and financial measures of Les Invalides” and that Riyadh was an “important defence partner”. Many countries were ­setting up national pavilions in Paris for the games, he was quoted as saying.

<h2>Why the controversy?</h2>

The idea of the pavilion, which would be erected in May and last for four months, is being seen as an attempt to breach the country’s historic treasure by the opposition.

Watch:&nbsp;France changes its abortion laws after US repeals Roe vs Wade; Catholic groups oppose

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Nathalie Serre pointed out that a foreign state’s ‘pavilion’ in “an archi­tectural treasure, full of symbolism and our country’s history” would be out of place.

She said it would be egregious since Saudi Arabia is involved, “because of its human rights record.” “But even if it were a Danish or ­Canadian village, it would be the same,” she added.

Two biggest opposition parties — the right-wing populist National ­Rally led by Marine Le Pen and France Unbowed, the radical left party of Jean-Luc Mélenchon—also criticised the move.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjq8Ym_wdqEAxVwwjgGHUAZDZkQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-french-army-chief-hails-india-as-a-key-partner-calling-for-increased-military-cooperation-695311" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-french-army-chief-hails-india-as-a-key-partner-calling-for-increased-military-cooperation-695311&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjq8Ym_wdqEAxVwwjgGHUAZDZkQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Exclusive: French army chief hails India as a key partner, calls for increased military cooperation</a>

“When you have a Chanel fashion show, it doesn’t last four months and we’re not appropriating anything other than the beauty of the place. There are some things that are not for sale and in my view Les Invalides is one of them.”

The defence ministry is now in damage control mode.

It said the deal was dependent “on strict conditions that the Saudis have not yet accepted, which must ensure the security and solemnity of the site and the peace of the resident pensioners”.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia’s request to President Emmanuel Macron to erect an “Olympic village” by Napoleon’s tomb, Les Invalides, has set the cat among the pigeons in French politics.

Saudi Arabia’s request to President Emmanuel Macron to erect an “Olympic village” by Napoleon’s tomb, Les Invalides, has set the cat among the pigeons in French politics. Both radical left and right-wing parties in the country have vehemently opposed the proposal after a minister confirmed that Paris was looking favourably at Riyadh’s request to install a national pavilion, another push by the Arab nation to cement its position as the global sporting hub. Why Les Invalides? Olympic archery events are slated to be held in the long Esplanade Park of Les Invalides. Some events will be held by the iconic Eiffel Tower. Macron's administration kept mum on the Saudi proposal until Nathalie Serre, a conservative MP, demanded information in a parliamentary question. Answering the question, French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed that the government was giving it a “sympathetic view”. “Saudi Arabia is committed to respecting the security and financial measures of Les Invalides” and that Riyadh was an “important defence partner”. Many countries were setting up national pavilions in Paris for the games, he was quoted as saying. Why the controversy? The idea of the pavilion, which would be erected in May and last for four months, is being seen as an attempt to breach the country’s historic treasure by the opposition. Watch: France changes its abortion laws after US repeals Roe vs Wade; Catholic groups oppose × Nathalie Serre pointed out that a foreign state’s ‘pavilion’ in “an architectural treasure, full of symbolism and our country’s history” would be out of place. She said it would be egregious since Saudi Arabia is involved, “because of its human rights record.” “But even if it were a Danish or Canadian village, it would be the same,” she added. Two biggest opposition parties — the right-wing populist National Rally led by Marine Le Pen and France Unbowed, the radical left party of Jean-Luc Mélenchon—also criticised the move. Also read: Exclusive: French army chief hails India as a key partner, calls for increased military cooperation “When you have a Chanel fashion show, it doesn’t last four months and we’re not appropriating anything other than the beauty of the place. There are some things that are not for sale and in my view Les Invalides is one of them.” The defence ministry is now in damage control mode. It said the deal was dependent “on strict conditions that the Saudis have not yet accepted, which must ensure the security and solemnity of the site and the peace of the resident pensioners”. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Not for sale,’ Macron under fire over Saudi proposal to build Olympic pavilion by Napoleon’s tomb

Southeast Asian leaders are meeting in Australia for a rare summit. The ASEAN-Australia special summit in Melbourne will mark 50 years since Australia became the first official partner of the ASEAN bloc now.

ASEAN-Australia summit 2024: China & Myanmar likely to be high on agenda

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