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As foreign press members cover the 36th NATO summit, at the Turkish capital Ankara, a couple of feline guests have become the centre of attraction at the Presidential Complex. Turkish Angora cat Lokum and her kitten Ak Kiz charmed the international audience and journalists with their adorable antics, a fresh break from the high-stakes discussion between the world leaders.&nbsp;The snow white fur, heterochromatic eyes and non chalant demeanor of Angora mother cat Lokum and her energetic kitten Ak Kiz showcased Ankara’s cultural identity to international visitors. The two felines are cared for at the Presidential National Library. They are among the 50 animals cared for at the National Library. The library and complex personnel ensure they receive proper food, shelter, and medical attention. Ayşegül Korkmaz, a veterinarian, is responsible for caring for these felines, said that the complex represents the cultural identity of Turkey, caring for stray animals as communally owned neighbourhood pets, instead of discarding them as pests.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pune-pcmc-waste-to-energy-plant-building-collapse-workers-trapped-heavy-rain-1783506255509">Pune building collapse: At least 15 trapped after waste mound crashes into PCMC plant</a>“Our cat is a Turkish Angora cat,” Korkmaz said. “Lokum lives at the Presidential Complex and was brought here to meet members of the press and help introduce Ankara. Lokum is here today to represent both itself and Ankara.”In Turkey, cats have a revered status; they are considered “Tahir” or ritually clean animals, allowing them free access to homes and even mosques. The nearby Turkish Parliament has a dedicated “Cat Life and Play Area” &nbsp;managed by specialised park and garden staff units to routinely clean, feed, and provide veterinary treatment to resident felines.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">NATO zirvesi için Ankara’ya gelen yabancı gazeteciler, Cumhurbaşkanlığı Külliyesi&#39;nde yaşayan kedi Lokum’a hayran kaldı. <a href="https://t.co/MHjEmU8qi3">pic.twitter.com/MHjEmU8qi3</a>&mdash; Metropol Haber (@metropolmedya_) <a href="https://x.com/metropolmedya_/status/2074815523687145955?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">📌Ankara kedisi &#39;Lokum&#39;, yabancı basın mensuplarının ilgi odağı oldu <a href="https://t.co/YmPpQ2APbC">pic.twitter.com/YmPpQ2APbC</a>&mdash; Karar Haber (@KararHaber) <a href="https://x.com/KararHaber/status/2074830366502711577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Karşılama görevlisi olan Ankara kedisi &#39;Lokum&#39;, yabancı basın mensuplarının ilgi odağı oldu.<a href="https://t.co/K9WBnUC1UU">pic.twitter.com/K9WBnUC1UU</a>&mdash; World of Türkiye (@worldofturkiye) <a href="https://x.com/worldofturkiye/status/2074817270682173443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Turkish Angora cat Lokum and her kitten Ak Kiz became unexpected stars at the NATO summit in Ankara, showcasing Turkey's unique culture of caring for stray cats.

As foreign press members cover the 36th NATO summit, at the Turkish capital Ankara, a couple of feline guests have become the centre of attraction at the Presidential Complex. Turkish Angora cat Lokum and her kitten Ak Kiz charmed the international audience and journalists with their adorable antics, a fresh break from the high-stakes discussion between the world leaders. The snow white fur, heterochromatic eyes and non chalant demeanor of Angora mother cat Lokum and her energetic kitten Ak Kiz showcased Ankara’s cultural identity to international visitors. The two felines are cared for at the Presidential National Library. They are among the 50 animals cared for at the National Library. The library and complex personnel ensure they receive proper food, shelter, and medical attention. Ayşegül Korkmaz, a veterinarian, is responsible for caring for these felines, said that the complex represents the cultural identity of Turkey, caring for stray animals as communally owned neighbourhood pets, instead of discarding them as pests. Also Read: Pune building collapse: At least 15 trapped after waste mound crashes into PCMC plant “Our cat is a Turkish Angora cat,” Korkmaz said. “Lokum lives at the Presidential Complex and was brought here to meet members of the press and help introduce Ankara. Lokum is here today to represent both itself and Ankara.” In Turkey, cats have a revered status; they are considered “Tahir” or ritually clean animals, allowing them free access to homes and even mosques. The nearby Turkish Parliament has a dedicated “Cat Life and Play Area” managed by specialised park and garden staff units to routinely clean, feed, and provide veterinary treatment to resident felines.

Turkish Angora cat Lokum and her kitten Ak Kiz became unexpected stars at the NATO summit in Ankara, showcasing Turkey's unique culture of caring for stray cats.

WATCH | Turkish Angora cats steal the spotlight at NATO summit in Ankara

US federal prosecutors have alleged in the indictment that the Lawrence Bishnoi Organised Crime Group (OCG) publicly claimed a role in the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala and issued repeated threats against Bollywood actor Salman Khan to instil and spread fear, boost its criminal reputation, and facilitate future extortion attempts.&nbsp;According to the indictment, the Bishnoi OCG openly claimed responsibility for ordering and directing the murder of Sidhu Moose Wala after the singer was shot dead in Punjab on May 29, 2022. The US prosecutors allege the gang deliberately publicised the claims in a media interview and Facebook post to promote the criminal enterprise by creating fear among the masses to strengthen its extortion network.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donation-collection-at-famous-maa-baglamukhi-temple-in-madhya-pradesh-comes-under-cloud-probe-ordered-1783506833773">Donation collection at famous Maa Baglamukhi temple in Madhya Pradesh comes under cloud; probe ordered</a>&nbsp;It also alleges that between 2022 and 2026, jailed Bishnoi repeatedly announced his intention to kill Bollywood actor Salman Khan. Prosecutors claim the repeated threats were intended to reinforce the gang’s violent image, intimidate victims, and further its criminal objectives.&nbsp;The allegations form part of ‘Operation Hard Ball’, an FBI-led investigation that targeted three organised crime groups with links to India.&nbsp;<h2>DoJ alleges global criminal enterprise</h2>&nbsp;The US Department of Justice alleges that the Bishnoi OCG operated a transnational organised crime syndicate involved in murder-for-hire, extortion-for-hire and other violent crimes across India, the US, Canada and other countries.&nbsp;The gang allegedly identified wealthy and influential victims, including prominent cultural, political, and business figures, through social media platforms, using government database, and physical surveillance before extortion attempts and violent attacks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-unveils-billions-in-arms-deals-after-trump-s-pressure-for-higher-defence-spending-1783428507988">NATO unveils billions in arms deals after Trump’s pressure for higher defence spending</a>&nbsp;Prosecutors identify Goldy Brar as the gang’s alleged North American leader and Rohit Godara as the alleged coordinator of its European operations. The DOJ alleges that the OCG financed its activities through international cocaine trafficking, extortion, and theft of cocaine shipments from rival criminal groups.The prosecutors also alleged that the Bishnoi gang members used encrypted messaging platforms, like WhatsApp, to issue extortion threats demanding millions of dollars while warning victims of attacks on them and their families.&nbsp;They further say that the syndicate relied on social media to amplify its reputation for violence and intimidate targets, particularly within Indian diaspora communities.&nbsp;<h2>Nijjar assassination among key allegations</h2>&nbsp;The indictment also alleges that Bishnoi and Goldy Brar ordered the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18, 2023.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-cop-arrested-after-raids-find-disproportionate-assets-worth-rs-300-crore-1783435568416">Telangana cop arrested after raids find disproportionate assets worth Rs 300 crore</a>&nbsp;The allegations contained in the federal indictment are accusations by US prosecutors and have not been proven in court.&nbsp;The FBI has announced a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to Goldy Brar’s arrest, describing him as “armed, dangerous, and an escape risk.”

The US prosecutors allege that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang deliberately publicised claims of a role in the Sidhu Moosewala murder in a media interview and Facebook post to promote the criminal enterprise by creating fear among the masses to strengthen its extortion network.

US federal prosecutors have alleged in the indictment that the Lawrence Bishnoi Organised Crime Group (OCG) publicly claimed a role in the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala and issued repeated threats against Bollywood actor Salman Khan to instil and spread fear, boost its criminal reputation, and facilitate future extortion attempts. According to the indictment, the Bishnoi OCG openly claimed responsibility for ordering and directing the murder of Sidhu Moose Wala after the singer was shot dead in Punjab on May 29, 2022. The US prosecutors allege the gang deliberately publicised the claims in a media interview and Facebook post to promote the criminal enterprise by creating fear among the masses to strengthen its extortion network. Also Read: Donation collection at famous Maa Baglamukhi temple in Madhya Pradesh comes under cloud; probe ordered It also alleges that between 2022 and 2026, jailed Bishnoi repeatedly announced his intention to kill Bollywood actor Salman Khan. Prosecutors claim the repeated threats were intended to reinforce the gang’s violent image, intimidate victims, and further its criminal objectives. The allegations form part of ‘Operation Hard Ball’, an FBI-led investigation that targeted three organised crime groups with links to India. DoJ alleges global criminal enterprise The US Department of Justice alleges that the Bishnoi OCG operated a transnational organised crime syndicate involved in murder-for-hire, extortion-for-hire and other violent crimes across India, the US, Canada and other countries. The gang allegedly identified wealthy and influential victims, including prominent cultural, political, and business figures, through social media platforms, using government database, and physical surveillance before extortion attempts and violent attacks. Also Read: NATO unveils billions in arms deals after Trump’s pressure for higher defence spending Prosecutors identify Goldy Brar as the gang’s alleged North American leader and Rohit Godara as the alleged coordinator of its European operations. The DOJ alleges that the OCG financed its activities through international cocaine trafficking, extortion, and theft of cocaine shipments from rival criminal groups. The prosecutors also alleged that the Bishnoi gang members used encrypted messaging platforms, like WhatsApp, to issue extortion threats demanding millions of dollars while warning victims of attacks on them and their families. They further say that the syndicate relied on social media to amplify its reputation for violence and intimidate targets, particularly within Indian diaspora communities. Nijjar assassination among key allegations The indictment also alleges that Bishnoi and Goldy Brar ordered the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18, 2023. Also Read: Telangana cop arrested after raids find disproportionate assets worth Rs 300 crore The allegations contained in the federal indictment are accusations by US prosecutors and have not been proven in court. The FBI has announced a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to Goldy Brar’s arrest, describing him as “armed, dangerous, and an escape risk.”

The US prosecutors allege that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang deliberately publicised claims of a role in the Sidhu Moosewala murder in a media interview and Facebook post to promote the criminal enterprise by creating fear among the masses to strengthen its extortion network.

Operation Hard Ball: US cites Moosewala murder, Salman Khan threats in indictment against Bishnoi gang

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday ordered a halt to the overall trade with NATO ally Spain, calling it a “terrible partner”. During the NATO summit, as European leaders were trying to put a lid on the conflict within the military alliance, Trump unleashed on NATO for getting a “free ride”. Speaking alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said that he has no business to be done with Spain. He further annoyed the NATO leaders by once again invoking Greenland.&nbsp;"Spain doesn't agree ‌to anything, and you shouldn't carry them," Trump told Rutte, who tried to ease the tension, suggesting that Spain “made a huge step last year” in increasing the budget to 2 per cent. He also added that "there are still issues ​we have to solve"."Spain is a wasted cause. I don't want to do any trade with them, alright?" said Trump while turning to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who responded, "Yes, Sir!" Trump then continued, "Take ⁠it immediately. Don't even talk to them. They're hopeless. They're bad people ... They make so much money with us, and we're going to see that they make a lot less."The office of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said in a statement that it was treating Trump's statements as "business as usual" and did not ​intend to change the "excellent" relations ​it enjoyed with Washington. It also pointed out that Spain runs a trade deficit with the US, and economic ties were forged by private companies rather than governments. It also said that European Union rules require trade negotiations to be conducted as a single bloc.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pune-pcmc-waste-to-energy-plant-building-collapse-workers-trapped-heavy-rain-1783506255509">Pune building collapse: At least 15 trapped after waste mound crashes into PCMC plant</a>Spain’s health minister, Mónica García, said on Wednesday that President Trump had called the country a “terrible partner” because Spain “does not accept blackmail or threats.” “We are a sovereign, democratic country that defends multilateralism and peace,” García said, adding, “What is terrible is confusing diplomacy with bullying.”<h2>Trump invokes Greenland again to irk Europeans</h2>Trump also attacked NATO for its role, or lack of it, in the Iran war, and brought up Greenland, which is bound to agitate the Europeans. “I’m not happy with NATO because of what they did with Greenland, and I’m not happy with NATO because of the fact that they didn’t want to help us with the number one state sponsor of terror,” he told reporters, standing alongside the secretary general of NATO, Mark Rutte. “That’s Iran.”Denmark's Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, said that the country would defend “every inch” of its territory and reiterated that Greenland was not for sale. She said, &nbsp;“We will defend the kingdom of Denmark,” adding, “We are ready to defend every inch of NATO, including our own territory.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://x.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Spain is a wasted cause. We don&#39;t want to do any trade business with Spain anymore by the way... Spain is a terrible partner in NATO. They don&#39;t participate, they don&#39;t pay. I don&#39;t want anything to do with Spain.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/3prqux6p54">pic.twitter.com/3prqux6p54</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/2074775059210654114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Donald Trump ordered a halt to trade with Spain, called it a "terrible partner," and reignited the Greenland dispute during the NATO summit, drawing sharp reactions.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday ordered a halt to the overall trade with NATO ally Spain, calling it a “terrible partner”. During the NATO summit, as European leaders were trying to put a lid on the conflict within the military alliance, Trump unleashed on NATO for getting a “free ride”. Speaking alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said that he has no business to be done with Spain. He further annoyed the NATO leaders by once again invoking Greenland. "Spain doesn't agree ‌to anything, and you shouldn't carry them," Trump told Rutte, who tried to ease the tension, suggesting that Spain “made a huge step last year” in increasing the budget to 2 per cent. He also added that "there are still issues we have to solve". "Spain is a wasted cause. I don't want to do any trade with them, alright?" said Trump while turning to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who responded, "Yes, Sir!" Trump then continued, "Take ⁠it immediately. Don't even talk to them. They're hopeless. They're bad people ... They make so much money with us, and we're going to see that they make a lot less." The office of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said in a statement that it was treating Trump's statements as "business as usual" and did not intend to change the "excellent" relations it enjoyed with Washington. It also pointed out that Spain runs a trade deficit with the US, and economic ties were forged by private companies rather than governments. It also said that European Union rules require trade negotiations to be conducted as a single bloc. Also Read: Pune building collapse: At least 15 trapped after waste mound crashes into PCMC plant Spain’s health minister, Mónica García, said on Wednesday that President Trump had called the country a “terrible partner” because Spain “does not accept blackmail or threats.” “We are a sovereign, democratic country that defends multilateralism and peace,” García said, adding, “What is terrible is confusing diplomacy with bullying.” Trump invokes Greenland again to irk Europeans Trump also attacked NATO for its role, or lack of it, in the Iran war, and brought up Greenland, which is bound to agitate the Europeans. “I’m not happy with NATO because of what they did with Greenland, and I’m not happy with NATO because of the fact that they didn’t want to help us with the number one state sponsor of terror,” he told reporters, standing alongside the secretary general of NATO, Mark Rutte. “That’s Iran.” Denmark's Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, said that the country would defend “every inch” of its territory and reiterated that Greenland was not for sale. She said, “We will defend the kingdom of Denmark,” adding, “We are ready to defend every inch of NATO, including our own territory.”

Donald Trump ordered a halt to trade with Spain, called it a "terrible partner," and reignited the Greenland dispute during the NATO summit, drawing sharp reactions.

Trump halts trade with Spain, calls NATO ally a ‘terrible partner’ at summit

A shooting incident at a school in the southern German state of Bavaria on Wednesday left several people injured. German newspaper BILD reported that the incident happened at the Welfen-Gymnasium in Schongau, southwest of Munich. A suspect has been arrested, and numerous forces are operating at the scene. Initial reports suggest that this was a planned killing spree.&nbsp;"A suspected perpetrator has been arrested," the police confirmed in a post on X. "The number of people involved and the severity of the injuries are currently being clarified." The high school is located in the town of Schongau, which has more than 12,000 residents.'&nbsp;More than 15 patrol cars were dispatched to the scene. A police officer told Bavarian broadcaster BR that chances are that this could turn into a possible shooting spree and urged the public to avoid the area. A spokesperson told BILD, "We cannot rule out the possibility of a school shooting." The police were alerted at around 12.50 pm local time.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many victims also have stab wounds. It is not clear how many of them are students and how many are teachers. Initially, the police said four people were injured, but later refused to give a number.&nbsp;Some of them were attacked inside the building, and some outside. The perpetrator tried to flee the scene but was caught.&nbsp;In June, a shooter attacked a shelter for mothers and children in northern Germany, in which six people died. The victims - four women and two men - were employees at the facility.&nbsp;Mass shootings are rare in Germany. In 2023, a gunman in Hamburg shot ​dead six people at a Jehovah's Witness worship hall. In 2016, an 18-year-old ‌German-Iranian man killed at least nine people in Munich.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is a Breaking story…

German school attack today: The incident in the German state of Bavaria on Wednesday left several injured. The suspect has been arrested. Police urged people to stay away from the area as a shooting spree is possible. 

A shooting incident at a school in the southern German state of Bavaria on Wednesday left several people injured. German newspaper BILD reported that the incident happened at the Welfen-Gymnasium in Schongau, southwest of Munich. A suspect has been arrested, and numerous forces are operating at the scene. Initial reports suggest that this was a planned killing spree. "A suspected perpetrator has been arrested," the police confirmed in a post on X. "The number of people involved and the severity of the injuries are currently being clarified." The high school is located in the town of Schongau, which has more than 12,000 residents.' More than 15 patrol cars were dispatched to the scene. A police officer told Bavarian broadcaster BR that chances are that this could turn into a possible shooting spree and urged the public to avoid the area. A spokesperson told BILD, "We cannot rule out the possibility of a school shooting." The police were alerted at around 12.50 pm local time. Many victims also have stab wounds. It is not clear how many of them are students and how many are teachers. Initially, the police said four people were injured, but later refused to give a number. Some of them were attacked inside the building, and some outside. The perpetrator tried to flee the scene but was caught. In June, a shooter attacked a shelter for mothers and children in northern Germany, in which six people died. The victims - four women and two men - were employees at the facility. Mass shootings are rare in Germany. In 2023, a gunman in Hamburg shot dead six people at a Jehovah's Witness worship hall. In 2016, an 18-year-old ‌German-Iranian man killed at least nine people in Munich. This is a Breaking story…

German school attack today: The incident in the German state of Bavaria on Wednesday left several injured. The suspect has been arrested. Police urged people to stay away from the area as a shooting spree is possible.&nbsp;

Attack on school in Bavaria, Germany, leaves several injured; police flag possible shooting spree

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to commence a high-profile, three-day official visit to Australia on Wednesday (July 8, 2026), after an invitation from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. PM Modi's visit spans 8 to 10 July, focusing heavily on increasing diplomatic, economic, and cultural bridges between the two democracies. Both leaders will meet in Melbourne for the Australia–India Annual Leaders’ Summit. Previously, Albanese met with PM Modi in the margins of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg in November 2025. Importantly, the development marks PM Modi's third official visit to the country after he became Prime Minister and coincides with the high-stakes Australia-India Annual Leaders' Summit. Narendra Modi's visits also act as the critical second leg of his broader three-nation visit covering Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand. During his stay in Melbourne, Prime Minister Modi will engage in extensive bilateral discussions with Albanese and pay a formal courtesy call on Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese characterised India as a vital economic ally, underscoring the expanding geopolitical importance of the bilateral relationship. In an official statement released by the Prime Minister's Office in Canberra, Albanese pointed out that India's standing as the world's fourth-largest and fastest-growing major economy renders it a crucial commercial partner for Australia.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-visits-historic-prambanan-temple-strengthens-india-indonesia-cultural-diplomacy-1783501184754">PM Modi visits historic Prambanan Temple, strengthens India-Indonesia cultural diplomacy</a><h3>Why is the Australia–India Annual Leaders’ Summit important?</h3>During an upcoming bilateral visit, India and Australia are poised to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership through closer political, economic, and maritime security cooperation. PM Modi will interact with Australian business leaders to expand trade and investment, focusing heavily on clean energy like solar power and essential minerals such as lithium. To maintain a safe, open, and free Indo-Pacific region, both nations plan to significantly deepen their defence ties. Additionally, the visit aims to enhance collaboration in technology, education, innovation, and skills development. Finally, both leaders will prioritise strengthening people-to-people connections, emphasising active engagement with the vibrant Indian diaspora in Australia to foster deeper long-term commercial and cultural partnerships.&nbsp;WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-s-three-nation-tour-pm-modi-to-visit-iconic-prambanan-temple-in-indonesia-1783491130236/embed<h3>Why is Australia important?</h3>Based on economic cooperation, Australia has found four sectors that offer the greatest opportunities for potential collaboration, including education, agriculture and food, tourism, and the green energy supply chain. Both nations are expanding trade, investment and economic cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP). The CSP is based on mutual understanding, trust, common interests and the common values of democracy as well as the rule of law, reflecting India and Australia’s firm commitment to practical global cooperation to address major challenges. Influenced by common democratic ideology, both nations collaborate closely on military and maritime security, highlighted by their active participation in the QUAD alliance and join navy exercises. Beyond defence, Australia has emerged as a trusted partner for supplying critical minerals, which are vital for securing India’s supply chains and clean energy transition. Furthermore, landmark initiatives like the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement are rapidly expanding mutual trade and investment. Together, they are also fostering robust cooperation in emerging technologies, education, and innovation, cementing a resilient and long-term strategic relationship. In addition, more than 1 million Indians are living in Australia, creating a strong, friendly connection prompting both nations closer together.&nbsp;

The CSP is based on mutual understanding, trust, common interests and the common values of democracy as well as the rule of law, reflecting India and Australia’s firm commitment to practical global cooperation to address major challenges. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to commence a high-profile, three-day official visit to Australia on Wednesday (July 8, 2026), after an invitation from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. PM Modi's visit spans 8 to 10 July, focusing heavily on increasing diplomatic, economic, and cultural bridges between the two democracies. Both leaders will meet in Melbourne for the Australia–India Annual Leaders’ Summit. Previously, Albanese met with PM Modi in the margins of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg in November 2025. Importantly, the development marks PM Modi's third official visit to the country after he became Prime Minister and coincides with the high-stakes Australia-India Annual Leaders' Summit. Narendra Modi's visits also act as the critical second leg of his broader three-nation visit covering Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand. During his stay in Melbourne, Prime Minister Modi will engage in extensive bilateral discussions with Albanese and pay a formal courtesy call on Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese characterised India as a vital economic ally, underscoring the expanding geopolitical importance of the bilateral relationship. In an official statement released by the Prime Minister's Office in Canberra, Albanese pointed out that India's standing as the world's fourth-largest and fastest-growing major economy renders it a crucial commercial partner for Australia. Also read: PM Modi visits historic Prambanan Temple, strengthens India-Indonesia cultural diplomacy Why is the Australia–India Annual Leaders’ Summit important? During an upcoming bilateral visit, India and Australia are poised to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership through closer political, economic, and maritime security cooperation. PM Modi will interact with Australian business leaders to expand trade and investment, focusing heavily on clean energy like solar power and essential minerals such as lithium. To maintain a safe, open, and free Indo-Pacific region, both nations plan to significantly deepen their defence ties. Additionally, the visit aims to enhance collaboration in technology, education, innovation, and skills development. Finally, both leaders will prioritise strengthening people-to-people connections, emphasising active engagement with the vibrant Indian diaspora in Australia to foster deeper long-term commercial and cultural partnerships. WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-s-three-nation-tour-pm-modi-to-visit-iconic-prambanan-temple-in-indonesia-1783491130236/embed Why is Australia important? Based on economic cooperation, Australia has found four sectors that offer the greatest opportunities for potential collaboration, including education, agriculture and food, tourism, and the green energy supply chain. Both nations are expanding trade, investment and economic cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP). The CSP is based on mutual understanding, trust, common interests and the common values of democracy as well as the rule of law, reflecting India and Australia’s firm commitment to practical global cooperation to address major challenges. Influenced by common democratic ideology, both nations collaborate closely on military and maritime security, highlighted by their active participation in the QUAD alliance and join navy exercises. Beyond defence, Australia has emerged as a trusted partner for supplying critical minerals, which are vital for securing India’s supply chains and clean energy transition. Furthermore, landmark initiatives like the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement are rapidly expanding mutual trade and investment. Together, they are also fostering robust cooperation in emerging technologies, education, and innovation, cementing a resilient and long-term strategic relationship. In addition, more than 1 million Indians are living in Australia, creating a strong, friendly connection prompting both nations closer together.

The CSP is based on mutual understanding, trust, common interests and the common values of democracy as well as the rule of law, reflecting India and Australia’s firm commitment to practical global cooperation to address major challenges.&nbsp;

Why is Australia key strategic partner for India in Indo-Pacific region? EXPLAINED

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated as US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday (Jul 8) that the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is "over", following renewed strikes and alleged violations by both sides. Trump's remarks at the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, sparked rise in oil prices and stock market volatility across the world. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cancelled a planned trip to Israel, Israeli media reported. Is the war back?<h2>Trump thinks further dealings with Iran are a waste of time</h2>Making some harsh remarks in which he described Iranian leaders as "scum", the US president said further dealings with them were a waste of time. He allowed negotiators to continue talks if they wished, but said the MoU was "over". Just hours earlier, US and Iranian forces had traded strikes, including military actions around the Strait of Hormuz.<h2>Iran accuses the US of violating the MoU, strikes sites in Kuwait, Bahrain</h2>Iran accused the US of violating the MoU, which was signed in mid-June 2026 at the Palace of Versailles and aimed at ending the active hostilities that began in late February. The MoU was intended to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, restore freedom of navigation for commercial shipping, reduce military tensions in the Gulf, and lay the groundwork for broader diplomatic talks.Reports said that Iran targeted military interests in Kuwait and Bahrain. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said one of its fighters was killed in an ‘enemy drone strike’, according to Iranian state media. A senior IRGC commander warned that any location supporting US attacks would be considered a legitimate target, Iranian state media reported.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strikes-on-iran-4-5-times-bigger-than-previous-wave-officials-1783469488428">US strikes on Iran '4-5 times bigger' than previous wave: Officials</a><h2>Oil markets react immediately to war talk</h2>Oil prices are rising - by up to 6 per cent in some cases- at the time of writing this, amid fears that hostilities would resume. Brent crude prices jumped towards $79 per barrel as traders reacted to the risk of disruption to roughly 20 per cent of global oil flows that pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier in the conflict, prices had surged dramatically to more than US$120 per barrel at their peak before easing following the truce.&nbsp;The latest volatility echoes previous price spikes linked to attacks on shipping and energy infrastructure in the region.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-there-ll-either-be-deal-or-us-will-finish-job-says-trump-1783402027929/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-there-ll-either-be-deal-or-us-will-finish-job-says-trump-1783402027929/embed</a><h2>US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cancels Israel trip</h2>The Jerusalem Post reported citing sources that Hegseth cancelled a planned visit to Israel on Wednesday, during which he was due to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz. Hegseth, who is in Ankara with Trump for the NATO summit, was expected to make a brief visit in the wake of the overnight US strikes against Iran, which Washington said were in response to Iranian attacks targeting three commercial tankers in the waters off Oman, near the Strait of Hormuz, the report said.(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump said the peace MoU is "over" after renewed tit-for-tat strikes. Oil prices are surging again. Pete Hegseth cancelled his Israel trip. Is Iran war back? 

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated as US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday (Jul 8) that the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is "over", following renewed strikes and alleged violations by both sides. Trump's remarks at the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, sparked rise in oil prices and stock market volatility across the world. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cancelled a planned trip to Israel, Israeli media reported. Is the war back? Trump thinks further dealings with Iran are a waste of time Making some harsh remarks in which he described Iranian leaders as "scum", the US president said further dealings with them were a waste of time. He allowed negotiators to continue talks if they wished, but said the MoU was "over". Just hours earlier, US and Iranian forces had traded strikes, including military actions around the Strait of Hormuz. Iran accuses the US of violating the MoU, strikes sites in Kuwait, Bahrain Iran accused the US of violating the MoU, which was signed in mid-June 2026 at the Palace of Versailles and aimed at ending the active hostilities that began in late February. The MoU was intended to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, restore freedom of navigation for commercial shipping, reduce military tensions in the Gulf, and lay the groundwork for broader diplomatic talks. Reports said that Iran targeted military interests in Kuwait and Bahrain. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said one of its fighters was killed in an ‘enemy drone strike’, according to Iranian state media. A senior IRGC commander warned that any location supporting US attacks would be considered a legitimate target, Iranian state media reported. Also read: US strikes on Iran '4-5 times bigger' than previous wave: Officials Oil markets react immediately to war talk Oil prices are rising - by up to 6 per cent in some cases- at the time of writing this, amid fears that hostilities would resume. Brent crude prices jumped towards $79 per barrel as traders reacted to the risk of disruption to roughly 20 per cent of global oil flows that pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier in the conflict, prices had surged dramatically to more than US$120 per barrel at their peak before easing following the truce. The latest volatility echoes previous price spikes linked to attacks on shipping and energy infrastructure in the region. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-there-ll-either-be-deal-or-us-will-finish-job-says-trump-1783402027929/embed US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cancels Israel trip The Jerusalem Post reported citing sources that Hegseth cancelled a planned visit to Israel on Wednesday, during which he was due to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz. Hegseth, who is in Ankara with Trump for the NATO summit, was expected to make a brief visit in the wake of the overnight US strikes against Iran, which Washington said were in response to Iranian attacks targeting three commercial tankers in the waters off Oman, near the Strait of Hormuz, the report said. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Trump said the peace MoU is "over" after renewed tit-for-tat strikes. Oil prices are surging again. Pete Hegseth cancelled his Israel trip. Is Iran war back?&nbsp;

War clouds loom over Iran once again? Hegseth cancels Israel trip, oil prices rise as Trump says peace deal is ‘over’

Amid a sharp escalation in West Asia hostilities, Iranian Parliament Speaker and top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf issued a fierce rhetorical pushback against Washington. In a statement published on X, Ghalibaf accused the United States of "major violations" regarding the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), a tenuous ceasefire agreement aimed at managing regional friction.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-issues-stark-warning-says-ready-for-war-if-1782876419934/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-issues-stark-warning-says-ready-for-war-if-1782876419934/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Ghalibaf’s public reprimand comes directly on the heels of extensive military action. US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed conducting sweeping retaliatory airstrikes hitting over 80 targets inside Iran, including air defense systems, coastal radars, and dozens of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) small vessels. The Pentagon framed these operations as an immediate response to recent Iranian attacks on commercial shipping in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pezeshkian-ghalibaf-break-down-as-iran-bids-farewell-to-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-1783117672966">Watch: Pezeshkian, Ghalibaf break down as Iran bids farewell to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>&nbsp;In his post, Ghalibaf outlined five specific grievances, condemning what he termed "attacks on southern Iran," "persistent threats of further strikes," the reinstatement of crippling oil sanctions, and US interference with Iranian maritime operations in the Strait. He additionally tied the breakdown of the MoU to broader geopolitical dynamics, listing "continued Zionist aggression" against Lebanon as a primary breach.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-prepared-for-war-if-mou-not-implemented-ghalibaf-warns-us-over-ceasefire-breaches-1782860767162">Iran 'prepared for war' if MoU not implemented: Ghalibaf warns US over ceasefire breaches</a>&nbsp;The core of Ghalibaf's message, however, lay in its concluding, uncompromising tone: "The era of bullying and extortion is over. It leads nowhere. We don’t fold."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Major MOU Violations by the US: Violating Iranian adjustments in the Strait Persistent threats of further strikes Reinstating oil sanctions Attacks on southern Iran Continued Zionist aggression on🇱🇧 The era of bullying and extortion is over. It leads nowhere. We don’t fold.&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://x.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2074681304625369519?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;This defiant stance underscores a deepening diplomatic impasse. While Washington maintains its actions are necessary countermeasures to protect vital international commerce and deter maritime aggression, Tehran views the strikes and renewed economic sanctions as a bad-faith unravelling of mutual understandings. As both nations trade military blows and diplomatic recriminations, Ghalibaf’s remarks signal that Iran has no intention of backing down, raising serious concerns over the survival of the fragile diplomatic framework.

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has fiercely rejected US pressure, accusing Washington of major ceasefire violations and stating "the era of bullying is over" following renewed US military strikes and oil sanctions.

Amid a sharp escalation in West Asia hostilities, Iranian Parliament Speaker and top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf issued a fierce rhetorical pushback against Washington. In a statement published on X, Ghalibaf accused the United States of "major violations" regarding the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), a tenuous ceasefire agreement aimed at managing regional friction. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-issues-stark-warning-says-ready-for-war-if-1782876419934/embed Ghalibaf’s public reprimand comes directly on the heels of extensive military action. US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed conducting sweeping retaliatory airstrikes hitting over 80 targets inside Iran, including air defense systems, coastal radars, and dozens of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) small vessels. The Pentagon framed these operations as an immediate response to recent Iranian attacks on commercial shipping in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Also read: Watch: Pezeshkian, Ghalibaf break down as Iran bids farewell to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei In his post, Ghalibaf outlined five specific grievances, condemning what he termed "attacks on southern Iran," "persistent threats of further strikes," the reinstatement of crippling oil sanctions, and US interference with Iranian maritime operations in the Strait. He additionally tied the breakdown of the MoU to broader geopolitical dynamics, listing "continued Zionist aggression" against Lebanon as a primary breach. Also read: Iran 'prepared for war' if MoU not implemented: Ghalibaf warns US over ceasefire breaches The core of Ghalibaf's message, however, lay in its concluding, uncompromising tone: "The era of bullying and extortion is over. It leads nowhere. We don’t fold."

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has fiercely rejected US pressure, accusing Washington of major ceasefire violations and stating "the era of bullying is over" following renewed US military strikes and oil sanctions.

Following 80 US air strikes, Iran's top negotiator Ghalibaf sends a blistering message to Washington

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Wednesday (July 8, 2026) jointly unveiled the India-supported conservation and restoration project at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta. The project underscores a major milestone in India-Indonesia cultural cooperation and civilisational diplomacy between the nations.&nbsp;Along with President Prabowo, PM Modi also offered prayers at the approximately 1,000-year-old Hindu temple complex in Yogyakarta on Indonesia's Java island. The initiative follows the exchange of a Letter of Intent during bilateral talks in Jakarta on Tuesday. During the talks, both countries' leaders welcomed the Archaeological Survey of India's (ASI) role in carrying out the conservation and restoration task.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/om-namah-shivaya-chants-echoing-the-hindu-connection-of-prambanan-temple-visited-by-pm-modi-in-indonesia-1783500527234"> 'Om Namah Shivaya’ chants echoing: The Hindu connection of Prambanan Temple visited by PM Modi in Indonesia</a><h3>Civilisational ties</h3>Calling Prambanan a "timeless symbol" of the shared cultural heritage of India and Indonesia, PM Modi highlighted the civilisational ties that have linked the two countries for over a thousand years. The restoration initiative reflects India's broader cultural diplomacy and Act East policy, under which it has collaborated with countries across South and Southeast Asia to preserve monuments showcasing their shared historical and cultural legacy. Since 2014, the Modi government has backed the conservation of several significant heritage sites across Asia. India helped restore the UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam, a major Shaivite temple complex and the spiritual centre of the ancient Champa Kingdom. In 2015, it extended a grant of LKR 326 million to Sri Lanka for the restoration of the historic Thiruketheeswaram Temple, one of the country's five ancient Pancha Ishwarams dedicated to Lord Shiva.&nbsp;Following Myanmar's 2016 earthquake, India also partnered with the Myanmar government to restore monuments in the UNESCO-listed Bagan Archaeological Zone, with the Archaeological Survey of India conserving 12 historic pagodas and completing restoration work at the iconic Ananda Temple. &nbsp;

The restoration initiative reflects India's broader cultural diplomacy and Act East policy, under which it has collaborated with countries across South and Southeast Asia to preserve monuments showcasing their shared historical and cultural legacy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Wednesday (July 8, 2026) jointly unveiled the India-supported conservation and restoration project at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta. The project underscores a major milestone in India-Indonesia cultural cooperation and civilisational diplomacy between the nations. Along with President Prabowo, PM Modi also offered prayers at the approximately 1,000-year-old Hindu temple complex in Yogyakarta on Indonesia's Java island. The initiative follows the exchange of a Letter of Intent during bilateral talks in Jakarta on Tuesday. During the talks, both countries' leaders welcomed the Archaeological Survey of India's (ASI) role in carrying out the conservation and restoration task. Also read: 'Om Namah Shivaya’ chants echoing: The Hindu connection of Prambanan Temple visited by PM Modi in Indonesia Civilisational ties Calling Prambanan a "timeless symbol" of the shared cultural heritage of India and Indonesia, PM Modi highlighted the civilisational ties that have linked the two countries for over a thousand years. The restoration initiative reflects India's broader cultural diplomacy and Act East policy, under which it has collaborated with countries across South and Southeast Asia to preserve monuments showcasing their shared historical and cultural legacy. Since 2014, the Modi government has backed the conservation of several significant heritage sites across Asia. India helped restore the UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam, a major Shaivite temple complex and the spiritual centre of the ancient Champa Kingdom. In 2015, it extended a grant of LKR 326 million to Sri Lanka for the restoration of the historic Thiruketheeswaram Temple, one of the country's five ancient Pancha Ishwarams dedicated to Lord Shiva. Following Myanmar's 2016 earthquake, India also partnered with the Myanmar government to restore monuments in the UNESCO-listed Bagan Archaeological Zone, with the Archaeological Survey of India conserving 12 historic pagodas and completing restoration work at the iconic Ananda Temple.

The restoration initiative reflects India's broader cultural diplomacy and Act East policy, under which it has collaborated with countries across South and Southeast Asia to preserve monuments showcasing their shared historical and cultural legacy.

PM Modi visits historic Prambanan Temple, strengthens India-Indonesia cultural diplomacy

Prambanan Temple, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited on Wednesday (July 8) along with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, has historic connections to Hinduism and ancient India. Modi visited the temple during his three-nation tour that will also take him to Australia and New Zealand. The two leaders jointly launched a conservation and restoration project, with India providing support, symbolising the deep civilisational ties between the two nations. Here is what you should know about Prambanan Temple.<h2>Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple site in Southeast Asia</h2>Also known as Candi Prambanan, the 9th-century compound in Yogyakarta is Southeast Asia’s largest Hindu temple site. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, it is also located near the Buddhist temple Borobudur, a testament to Indonesia's rich heritage of syncretic cultures and religions. The temple is a masterpiece of classical Javanese Hindu architecture, blended with local traditions. It was built around 850 CE by the Hindu Sanjaya dynasty of the Mataram Kingdom. It is believed that the construction of the complex was initiated by Rakai Pikatan and expanded by his successors, including King Lokapala.Prambanan Temple played a key role in the revival of Shaivite Hinduism after a period of Buddhist Sailendra influence in the region.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-confirms-signing-brahmos-cruise-missile-deal-with-vietnam-says-indonesia-pact-in-final-stages-1780147810239">India says signed BrahMos cruise missile deal with Vietnam, Indonesia pact in final stages</a><h2>A vast complex of 240 temples</h2>The vast temple compound originally had around 240 temples, featuring intricate stone carvings, including extensive reliefs depicting the Ramayana epic. The main Shiva temple stands 47 metres tall, with the site following Vastu Shastra principles.The temple is dedicated to the three principal gods of Hinduism, known as the Trimurti: Shiva the destroyer, Brahma the creator, and Vishnu the preserver. The central and tallest temple is devoted to Shiva.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-indonesia-strengthen-ties-indonesia-confers-highest-honour-to-pm-modi-1783424516060/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-indonesia-strengthen-ties-indonesia-confers-highest-honour-to-pm-modi-1783424516060/embed</a>The complex was built along the lines of Hindu cosmology. It symbolises Mount Meru, the abode of the gods, with three vertical zones. The base represents the underworld, or Bhur Loka; the middle represents the human realm, or Bhuvar Loka; and the towering spires represent heaven, or Svar Loka. The concentric squares and mandala layouts reflect cosmic order. Jewel-like pinnacles, or Ratna, crown the temples, akin to vajra symbols. The reliefs contain divine narratives and motifs blending Hindu and Buddhist elements.<h2>India-supported restoration of temples to be completed before 2029</h2>Sharing an aerial view of the temple, Modi posted on social media: "The majestic Prambanan Temple!" and called it "another remarkable testament" to more than 1,000 years of cultural and civilisational ties between India and Indonesia. The sacred Hindu chant "Om Namah Shivaya" resonated as Modi offered prayers, while people lined the streets to welcome him. Modi promised to return upon completion of the restoration project, which is expected to finish before 2029. PM Modi's visit has strengthened the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, extending beyond defence and economics to shared heritage.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">The majestic Prambanan Temple! <a href="https://t.co/pRS2S9X5gm">pic.twitter.com/pRS2S9X5gm</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://x.com/narendramodi/status/2074714272790405282?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Indonesia's Prambanan Temple with President Prabowo Subianto to launch an India-supported restoration project. Here is why the Hindu temple is symbol of India-Indonesia civilisational ties 

Prambanan Temple, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited on Wednesday (July 8) along with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, has historic connections to Hinduism and ancient India. Modi visited the temple during his three-nation tour that will also take him to Australia and New Zealand. The two leaders jointly launched a conservation and restoration project, with India providing support, symbolising the deep civilisational ties between the two nations. Here is what you should know about Prambanan Temple. Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple site in Southeast Asia Also known as Candi Prambanan, the 9th-century compound in Yogyakarta is Southeast Asia’s largest Hindu temple site. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, it is also located near the Buddhist temple Borobudur, a testament to Indonesia's rich heritage of syncretic cultures and religions. The temple is a masterpiece of classical Javanese Hindu architecture, blended with local traditions. It was built around 850 CE by the Hindu Sanjaya dynasty of the Mataram Kingdom. It is believed that the construction of the complex was initiated by Rakai Pikatan and expanded by his successors, including King Lokapala. Prambanan Temple played a key role in the revival of Shaivite Hinduism after a period of Buddhist Sailendra influence in the region. Also read: India says signed BrahMos cruise missile deal with Vietnam, Indonesia pact in final stages A vast complex of 240 temples The vast temple compound originally had around 240 temples, featuring intricate stone carvings, including extensive reliefs depicting the Ramayana epic. The main Shiva temple stands 47 metres tall, with the site following Vastu Shastra principles. The temple is dedicated to the three principal gods of Hinduism, known as the Trimurti: Shiva the destroyer, Brahma the creator, and Vishnu the preserver. The central and tallest temple is devoted to Shiva. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-indonesia-strengthen-ties-indonesia-confers-highest-honour-to-pm-modi-1783424516060/embed The complex was built along the lines of Hindu cosmology. It symbolises Mount Meru, the abode of the gods, with three vertical zones. The base represents the underworld, or Bhur Loka; the middle represents the human realm, or Bhuvar Loka; and the towering spires represent heaven, or Svar Loka. The concentric squares and mandala layouts reflect cosmic order. Jewel-like pinnacles, or Ratna, crown the temples, akin to vajra symbols. The reliefs contain divine narratives and motifs blending Hindu and Buddhist elements. India-supported restoration of temples to be completed before 2029 Sharing an aerial view of the temple, Modi posted on social media: "The majestic Prambanan Temple!" and called it "another remarkable testament" to more than 1,000 years of cultural and civilisational ties between India and Indonesia. The sacred Hindu chant "Om Namah Shivaya" resonated as Modi offered prayers, while people lined the streets to welcome him. Modi promised to return upon completion of the restoration project, which is expected to finish before 2029. PM Modi's visit has strengthened the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, extending beyond defence and economics to shared heritage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Indonesia's Prambanan Temple with President Prabowo Subianto to launch an India-supported restoration project. Here is why the Hindu temple is a symbol of India-Indonesia civilisational ties&nbsp;

'Om Namah Shivaya’ chants echoing: The Hindu connection of Prambanan Temple visited by PM Modi in Indonesia

Just as India and the United States appeared to be inching closer to a long-awaited bilateral trade agreement, a fresh dispute has landed on the negotiating table. Washington has proposed an additional 12.5 per cent tariff on certain Indian imports, alleging that India's enforcement against forced labour is inadequate. New Delhi has strongly pushed back, calling the proposal legally and factually weak, while insisting the issue should be resolved through consultations rather than new tariffs.The timing matters because both countries have repeatedly said they are close to finalising a trade pact worth hundreds of billions of dollars.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-trade-deal-with-india-is-very-very-close-what-s-holding-it-up-wion-decodes-1782280167960">US says trade deal with India is 'very, very close'. What's holding it up? | WION Decodes</a>So why has the US opened a new trade front now? And which Indian industries stand to lose the most if the tariff eventually takes effect? WION Decodes.<h2>Why is the US proposing new tariffs?</h2>The proposed tariff stems from a Section 301 investigation launched by the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR).Washington argues that India has not done enough to prevent products allegedly linked to forced labour from entering international supply chains. According to the USTR, this places an unreasonable burden on American commerce and justifies trade action.The proposed duty is not aimed only at India. The investigation covers around 60 economies, although India is among the largest trading partners affected.For now, it remains a proposal rather than a final decision, giving countries an opportunity to challenge the findings before any tariff comes into force.<h2>What exactly is Section 301?</h2>Section 301 is one of Washington's most powerful trade weapons. It comes from the US Trade Act of 1974 and allows the US government to investigate what it considers unfair trade practices by other countries.If the USTR concludes that another country's policies harm American businesses or violate international trade obligations, it can recommend retaliatory measures.Those measures can include:- Additional import tariffs - Restrictions on imports - Suspension of trade concessionsThe law has previously been used against China over intellectual property disputes, European digital taxes and several other trade disagreements.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-s-brahmos-vs-usa-s-tomahawk-russia-s-kalibr-and-china-s-yj-18-why-nations-are-lining-up-for-the-make-in-india-missile-1782892168517">India's BrahMos vs USA's Tomahawk, Russia's Kalibr and China's YJ-18: Why nations are lining up for the Make-in-India missile</a><h2>How did India react to the Section 301 findings?</h2>India argues that Washington has failed to provide country-specific evidence linking Indian exports to forced labour. In a detailed submission dated July 6 to the United States Trade Representative (USTR), India said the investigation does not establish how its laws or policies amount to "unreasonable" practices under the US's Section 301.Officials say the proposal rests on broad allegations rather than documented proof involving Indian manufacturers. "In view of the claims advanced, the identified gaps and lack of a sufficient basis, India requests the United States to reconsider the proposed imposition of tariffs against India. India remains willing to engage constructively with the USTR through consultation and dialogue on any specific concern," the submission reads.India has also questioned whether the tariff has a sufficient legal basis under international trade rules.Instead of unilateral tariffs, New Delhi wants both sides to resolve the dispute through consultations already built into the Section 301 process.At the same time, Indian negotiators are trying to ensure that this issue does not derail the much larger bilateral trade agreement currently under discussion.<h2>Could this affect the India-US trade deal?</h2>Potentially, yes. Although officials on both sides continue to insist that negotiations have made "substantial progress", the proposed tariff has introduced a fresh layer of uncertainty.India wants assurances that once a trade agreement is signed, it will not immediately face new tariff measures through a separate process.For Washington, meanwhile, the Section 301 investigation provides additional negotiating leverage. Trade experts believe the issue could eventually become part of a broader bargain involving tariffs, market access and regulatory commitments.<h2>Which Indian industries stand to lose the most?</h2>If an additional tariff is imposed, the impact is unlikely to be felt evenly. Some sectors are significantly more exposed to the US market than others.<h3>- Automotive components</h3>India's auto component industry exports billions of dollars' worth of precision-engineered parts to American manufacturers.An extra tariff would raise costs for US buyers and could reduce the competitiveness of Indian suppliers.<h3>- Textiles and garments</h3>Indian apparel exporters are deeply integrated into global supply chains, and even a relatively modest tariff could influence sourcing decisions by international retailers. Major companies like Shahi Exports and Alok Industries have actively petitioned against the tariff.<h3>- Agricultural and food exports</h3>Rice exporters, spice manufacturers, dehydrated vegetable producers and other processed food exporters could also find it harder to compete in the American market if import costs rise.<h3>- Engineering goods</h3>Engineering exports remain one of India's largest export categories. Forgings, industrial machinery, heavy equipment and specialised manufacturing products could all become more expensive for US customers.<h2>What happens next?</h2>Nothing changes immediately. The tariff proposal is still moving through the USTR consultation process, during which India will continue challenging the findings.Meanwhile, negotiations on the bilateral trade agreement are continuing in parallel.That means the coming weeks could determine whether the two countries move towards deeper economic integration or allow a fresh tariff dispute to complicate the much-awaited India-US trade deal.

Could the proposed 12.5% US tariff derail the long-awaited India-US trade deal? Washington has opened a fresh trade front, but which Indian industries face the biggest risk, why is the US citing forced labour concerns, and how is New Delhi fighting back? Scroll down for a simple explainer.

Just as India and the United States appeared to be inching closer to a long-awaited bilateral trade agreement, a fresh dispute has landed on the negotiating table. Washington has proposed an additional 12.5 per cent tariff on certain Indian imports, alleging that India's enforcement against forced labour is inadequate. New Delhi has strongly pushed back, calling the proposal legally and factually weak, while insisting the issue should be resolved through consultations rather than new tariffs. The timing matters because both countries have repeatedly said they are close to finalising a trade pact worth hundreds of billions of dollars. Also read | US says trade deal with India is 'very, very close'. What's holding it up? | WION Decodes So why has the US opened a new trade front now? And which Indian industries stand to lose the most if the tariff eventually takes effect? WION Decodes. Why is the US proposing new tariffs? The proposed tariff stems from a Section 301 investigation launched by the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR). Washington argues that India has not done enough to prevent products allegedly linked to forced labour from entering international supply chains. According to the USTR, this places an unreasonable burden on American commerce and justifies trade action. The proposed duty is not aimed only at India. The investigation covers around 60 economies, although India is among the largest trading partners affected. For now, it remains a proposal rather than a final decision, giving countries an opportunity to challenge the findings before any tariff comes into force. What exactly is Section 301? Section 301 is one of Washington's most powerful trade weapons. It comes from the US Trade Act of 1974 and allows the US government to investigate what it considers unfair trade practices by other countries. If the USTR concludes that another country's policies harm American businesses or violate international trade obligations, it can recommend retaliatory measures. Those measures can include: - Additional import tariffs - Restrictions on imports - Suspension of trade concessions The law has previously been used against China over intellectual property disputes, European digital taxes and several other trade disagreements. Also read | India's BrahMos vs USA's Tomahawk, Russia's Kalibr and China's YJ-18: Why nations are lining up for the Make-in-India missile How did India react to the Section 301 findings? India argues that Washington has failed to provide country-specific evidence linking Indian exports to forced labour. In a detailed submission dated July 6 to the United States Trade Representative (USTR), India said the investigation does not establish how its laws or policies amount to "unreasonable" practices under the US's Section 301. Officials say the proposal rests on broad allegations rather than documented proof involving Indian manufacturers. "In view of the claims advanced, the identified gaps and lack of a sufficient basis, India requests the United States to reconsider the proposed imposition of tariffs against India. India remains willing to engage constructively with the USTR through consultation and dialogue on any specific concern," the submission reads. India has also questioned whether the tariff has a sufficient legal basis under international trade rules. Instead of unilateral tariffs, New Delhi wants both sides to resolve the dispute through consultations already built into the Section 301 process. At the same time, Indian negotiators are trying to ensure that this issue does not derail the much larger bilateral trade agreement currently under discussion. Could this affect the India-US trade deal? Potentially, yes. Although officials on both sides continue to insist that negotiations have made "substantial progress", the proposed tariff has introduced a fresh layer of uncertainty. India wants assurances that once a trade agreement is signed, it will not immediately face new tariff measures through a separate process. For Washington, meanwhile, the Section 301 investigation provides additional negotiating leverage. Trade experts believe the issue could eventually become part of a broader bargain involving tariffs, market access and regulatory commitments. Which Indian industries stand to lose the most? If an additional tariff is imposed, the impact is unlikely to be felt evenly. Some sectors are significantly more exposed to the US market than others. - Automotive components India's auto component industry exports billions of dollars' worth of precision-engineered parts to American manufacturers. An extra tariff would raise costs for US buyers and could reduce the competitiveness of Indian suppliers. - Textiles and garments Indian apparel exporters are deeply integrated into global supply chains, and even a relatively modest tariff could influence sourcing decisions by international retailers. Major companies like Shahi Exports and Alok Industries have actively petitioned against the tariff. - Agricultural and food exports Rice exporters, spice manufacturers, dehydrated vegetable producers and other processed food exporters could also find it harder to compete in the American market if import costs rise. - Engineering goods Engineering exports remain one of India's largest export categories. Forgings, industrial machinery, heavy equipment and specialised manufacturing products could all become more expensive for US customers. What happens next? Nothing changes immediately. The tariff proposal is still moving through the USTR consultation process, during which India will continue challenging the findings. Meanwhile, negotiations on the bilateral trade agreement are continuing in parallel. That means the coming weeks could determine whether the two countries move towards deeper economic integration or allow a fresh tariff dispute to complicate the much-awaited India-US trade deal.

Could the proposed 12.5% US tariff derail the long-awaited India-US trade deal? Washington has opened a fresh trade front, but which Indian industries face the biggest risk, why is the US citing forced labour concerns, and how is New Delhi fighting back? Scroll down for a simple explainer.

WION Decodes: Why is the US threatening India with fresh 12.5% tariff under Section 301? Which industries stand to lose the most?

US President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire with Iran is officially "over" during his visit to Turkey. Speaking at the NATO summit in Ankara, Trump described the negotiations as a "waste of time," calling the negotiators “good people" while blasting Iranian leadership as “scum and sick people.” The diplomatic breakdown follows US military strikes on 80 targets, which were launched after Tehran targeted commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Watch video here:&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">US President Donald Trump said he considers the ceasefire with Iran effectively &quot;over&quot; and dismissed further engagement, calling Iran&#39;s leadership &quot;sick people.&quot; While noting that Iranian negotiators &quot;want to negotiate&quot; and are &quot;good people,&quot; Trump said any talks would have to… <a href="https://t.co/rjrsrAPQhx">pic.twitter.com/rjrsrAPQhx</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2074784022589473005?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;The US leader accused Iran of repeatedly misrepresenting the June 17 ceasefire agreement. He claimed that despite agreeing to no nuclear weapons, Iranian officials joked to the media that the issue was never discussed. While Trump noted he would allow his negotiators, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, to continue talks if they wished, he dismissed further engagement as a "waste of time," stating it is now up to Tehran to return to the negotiating table.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/following-80-us-air-strikes-iran-s-top-negotiator-ghalibaf-sends-a-blistering-message-to-washington-1783501607436">Following 80 US air strikes, Iran's top negotiator Ghalibaf sends a blistering message to Washington</a>&nbsp;During the summit, NATO chief Mark Rutte backed recent US military actions, telling Trump a prior night's strikes were “absolutely necessary,” and offered his full support. Despite Rutte’s backing—and Trump noting Rutte had called him "Daddy" at a previous NATO summit, Trump sharply criticised the alliance for refusing to assist against Iran, which he labelled the top state sponsor of terror. Trump expressed frustration with European allies, stating that the UK prime minister offered help only after the war ended, while Germany and France refused to assist entirely.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pezeshkian-ghalibaf-break-down-as-iran-bids-farewell-to-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-1783117672966">Watch: Pezeshkian, Ghalibaf break down as Iran bids farewell to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>&nbsp;The escalation follows a US military announcement that it struck over 80 Iranian targets, including speedboats, in response to Iranian attacks on shipping vessels in the critical Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump declares the ceasefire agreement with Iran is officially "over," unleashing a scathing attack on Iranian leadership at the NATO summit following recent military escalations.

US President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire with Iran is officially "over" during his visit to Turkey. Speaking at the NATO summit in Ankara, Trump described the negotiations as a "waste of time," calling the negotiators “good people" while blasting Iranian leadership as “scum and sick people.” The diplomatic breakdown follows US military strikes on 80 targets, which were launched after Tehran targeted commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Watch video here:

US President Donald Trump declares the ceasefire agreement with Iran is officially "over," unleashing a scathing attack on Iranian leadership at the NATO summit following recent military escalations.

Trump says ceasefire with Iran is over, berates them as 's**m and sick people'

Notorious gangsters Lawrence Bishnoi and his "right hand" Satinderjeet Singh, better known as Goldy Brar, have been charged with allegedly orchestrating the assassination of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, as per an official statement issued by the Justice Department. The Sikh separatist was gunned down in British Columbia, Canada, three years ago.According to federal prosecutors, 24 people linked to "India-based organised crime groups" were arrested in Operation Hard Ball, which was jointly carried out across the United States, Canada and Europe. The operation targeted violent crimes, extortion plots and international narcotics trafficking, and a total of 37 defendants have been charged in three federal indictments. Following this, the FBI has also announced a $50,000 bounty for Goldy. Here's all you need to know about the 'most wanted' criminal.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-big-diplomatic-win-canada-says-no-evidence-linking-new-delhi-to-nijjar-killing-1783486127258">India's big diplomatic win: Canada says 'no evidence' linking New Delhi to Nijjar killing</a><h2>Who is Goldy Brar?</h2>Satinderjeet Singh alias Goldy Brar is believed to be the top lieutenant of notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is currently lodged in jail in India. An equally notorious gangster in his own right, Brar is a designated terrorist in India. He has now made it onto the FBI's most wanted list and has a USD 50,000 bounty on his head. He is wanted for his alleged role in the Lawrence Bishnoi Organized Crime Group, which has been involved in a violent activity in Southern California, across the United States and Canada. The agency said he is believed to be based in the US and described him as the group's alleged North American leader.According to the FBI notice, he is "CONSIDERED ARMED AND DANGEROUS AND AN ESCAPE RISK".Brar has dozens of criminal cases and FIRs against him, spanning both Indian states and international law enforcement agencies.Notably, he is believed to be the mastermind behind the May 2022 murder of popular Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. The Punjab Police named him in the primary FIR under IPC Sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 302 (murder), and various sections of the Arms Act. This case triggered an Interpol Red Corner notice against him.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-wanted-fbi-puts-50-000-bounty-on-lawrence-bishnoi-aide-goldy-brar-after-charging-him-in-hardeep-nijjar-murder-case-1783477220291">'Most wanted': FBI puts $50,000 bounty on Lawrence Bishnoi aide Goldy Brar after charging him in Hardeep Nijjar murder case</a><h2>How did he and Bishnoi meet?</h2>The two met in Chandigarh in 2011, where they were studying together. Soon, they became best friends and eventually got involved in politics and criminal activities. In 2015, Bishnoi was arrested, but the two remained in touch.According to reports, Brar's descent into crime was deeply personal. In 2020, Goldy Brar's cousin, Gurlal Brar, was murdered, allegedly by a rival gang. Seeking vengeance, he joined the Bishnoi criminal faction. He then carried out his first targeted hit on a rival politician in Faridkot to avenge his cousin, sealing his loyalty to Bishnoi.While Bishnoi remained in prison, Brar, in the early 2020s, fled to Canada on a student visa, where he continued his criminal activities. In 2023, he allegedly was part of the plot to assassinate Sikh Separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.However, since 2025, Bishnoi and Brar have reportedly had a falling out. The reason behind this is two-fold: In late 2024, Lawrence Bishnoi's younger brother, Anmol Bishnoi, was detained by US authorities. Lawrence reportedly became furious at Brar for failing to properly arrange the required financial bail bonds. The strain worsened into a violent split following the murder of an associate named Sukhdeep Singh (alias Sippa) in Dubai, which led to a public exchange of retaliatory threats and audio leaks directly targeting each other.

The FBI has announced a $50,000 reward for Goldy Brar after US prosecutors charged him over the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. But who is Lawrence Bishnoi's alleged "right hand", and why is he now at the centre of an international manhunt? Scroll down to know.

Notorious gangsters Lawrence Bishnoi and his "right hand" Satinderjeet Singh, better known as Goldy Brar, have been charged with allegedly orchestrating the assassination of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, as per an official statement issued by the Justice Department. The Sikh separatist was gunned down in British Columbia, Canada, three years ago. According to federal prosecutors, 24 people linked to "India-based organised crime groups" were arrested in Operation Hard Ball, which was jointly carried out across the United States, Canada and Europe. The operation targeted violent crimes, extortion plots and international narcotics trafficking, and a total of 37 defendants have been charged in three federal indictments. Following this, the FBI has also announced a $50,000 bounty for Goldy. Here's all you need to know about the 'most wanted' criminal. Also read | India's big diplomatic win: Canada says 'no evidence' linking New Delhi to Nijjar killing Who is Goldy Brar? Satinderjeet Singh alias Goldy Brar is believed to be the top lieutenant of notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is currently lodged in jail in India. An equally notorious gangster in his own right, Brar is a designated terrorist in India. He has now made it onto the FBI's most wanted list and has a USD 50,000 bounty on his head. He is wanted for his alleged role in the Lawrence Bishnoi Organized Crime Group, which has been involved in a violent activity in Southern California, across the United States and Canada. The agency said he is believed to be based in the US and described him as the group's alleged North American leader. According to the FBI notice, he is "CONSIDERED ARMED AND DANGEROUS AND AN ESCAPE RISK". Brar has dozens of criminal cases and FIRs against him, spanning both Indian states and international law enforcement agencies. Notably, he is believed to be the mastermind behind the May 2022 murder of popular Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. The Punjab Police named him in the primary FIR under IPC Sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 302 (murder), and various sections of the Arms Act. This case triggered an Interpol Red Corner notice against him. Also read | 'Most wanted': FBI puts $50,000 bounty on Lawrence Bishnoi aide Goldy Brar after charging him in Hardeep Nijjar murder case How did he and Bishnoi meet? The two met in Chandigarh in 2011, where they were studying together. Soon, they became best friends and eventually got involved in politics and criminal activities. In 2015, Bishnoi was arrested, but the two remained in touch. According to reports, Brar's descent into crime was deeply personal. In 2020, Goldy Brar's cousin, Gurlal Brar, was murdered, allegedly by a rival gang. Seeking vengeance, he joined the Bishnoi criminal faction. He then carried out his first targeted hit on a rival politician in Faridkot to avenge his cousin, sealing his loyalty to Bishnoi. While Bishnoi remained in prison, Brar, in the early 2020s, fled to Canada on a student visa, where he continued his criminal activities. In 2023, he allegedly was part of the plot to assassinate Sikh Separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. However, since 2025, Bishnoi and Brar have reportedly had a falling out. The reason behind this is two-fold: In late 2024, Lawrence Bishnoi's younger brother, Anmol Bishnoi, was detained by US authorities. Lawrence reportedly became furious at Brar for failing to properly arrange the required financial bail bonds. The strain worsened into a violent split following the murder of an associate named Sukhdeep Singh (alias Sippa) in Dubai, which led to a public exchange of retaliatory threats and audio leaks directly targeting each other.

The FBI has announced a $50,000 reward for Goldy Brar after US prosecutors charged him over the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. But who is Lawrence Bishnoi's alleged "right hand", and why is he now at the centre of an international manhunt? Scroll down to know.

Who is Goldy Brar? Inside the rise of the 'most wanted' gangster charged in Hardeep Singh Nijjar case

The United States on Tuesday (Jul 7) charged gangsters Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar for allegedly orchestrating the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia, Canada, three years ago, as per an official statement issued by the Justice Department.According to Federal prosecutors 24 people linked to "India-based organised crime groups" have been with charges of violent crimes, extortion plots, and international narcotics trafficking have been arrested in an operation named "Operation Hard Ball" carried out in the United States, Canada, and Europe, and a total of 37 defendants have been charged in three federal indictments.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-big-diplomatic-win-canada-says-no-evidence-linking-new-delhi-to-nijjar-killing-1783486127258">India's big diplomatic win: Canada says 'no evidence' linking New Delhi to Nijjar killing</a><h2>Who is Lawrence Bishnoi?</h2>Lawrence Bishnoi, 33, is seen as India’s most notorious gangster. Born in 1993 in Punjab, Lawrence Bishnoi has been linked with several high-profile killings in India. He grew up in Abohar and later moved to Chandigarh in 2010 to attend DAV College, where he met gangster Satinderjeet Singh alias Goldy Brar. They both were involved in politics and criminal activities. Between 2010 and 2012, Bishnoi faced seven FIRs in Chandigarh, four of which he was acquitted of.Though behind bars for nearly a decade, his network has been tied to high-profile killings, including Punjabi rapper Sidhu Moose Wala in 2022. Investigators say the group has expanded from campus-level racketeering to a global syndicate with links across India, Canada, and beyond.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-wanted-fbi-puts-50-000-bounty-on-lawrence-bishnoi-aide-goldy-brar-after-charging-him-in-hardeep-nijjar-murder-case-1783477220291">'Most wanted': FBI puts $50,000 bounty on Lawrence Bishnoi aide Goldy Brar after charging him in Hardeep Nijjar murder case</a><h2>Is Bishnoi Gang a terrorist organisation?</h2>Notably, last year, Canada became the first nation to designate the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organisation. At the time, officials said that the gang had been targeting Sikh diaspora leaders, businesses, and cultural figures in Canada, creating “a climate of insecurity.” A 2023 shooting attack on the Vancouver Island home of Punjabi-Canadian artist AP Dhillon and repeated extortion threats to community members were cited as examples of the gang’s reach.&nbsp;Welcoming the terror list, the World Sikh Organization said it was a vital first step but warned that accountability must go further. “The true architects of this violence must also be held to account,” the group said.Notably, India has not designated the Bishnoi Gang itself as a terrorist organisation, but it has legally declared its top individual leaders as terrorists.

US prosecutors have charged jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his close aide Goldy Brar over the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. But who is Bishnoi, and how did his criminal network grow into a global syndicate? All you need to know.

The United States on Tuesday (Jul 7) charged gangsters Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar for allegedly orchestrating the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia, Canada, three years ago, as per an official statement issued by the Justice Department. According to Federal prosecutors 24 people linked to "India-based organised crime groups" have been with charges of violent crimes, extortion plots, and international narcotics trafficking have been arrested in an operation named "Operation Hard Ball" carried out in the United States, Canada, and Europe, and a total of 37 defendants have been charged in three federal indictments. Also read | India's big diplomatic win: Canada says 'no evidence' linking New Delhi to Nijjar killing Who is Lawrence Bishnoi? Lawrence Bishnoi, 33, is seen as India’s most notorious gangster. Born in 1993 in Punjab, Lawrence Bishnoi has been linked with several high-profile killings in India. He grew up in Abohar and later moved to Chandigarh in 2010 to attend DAV College, where he met gangster Satinderjeet Singh alias Goldy Brar. They both were involved in politics and criminal activities. Between 2010 and 2012, Bishnoi faced seven FIRs in Chandigarh, four of which he was acquitted of. Though behind bars for nearly a decade, his network has been tied to high-profile killings, including Punjabi rapper Sidhu Moose Wala in 2022. Investigators say the group has expanded from campus-level racketeering to a global syndicate with links across India, Canada, and beyond. Also read | 'Most wanted': FBI puts $50,000 bounty on Lawrence Bishnoi aide Goldy Brar after charging him in Hardeep Nijjar murder case Is Bishnoi Gang a terrorist organisation? Notably, last year, Canada became the first nation to designate the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organisation. At the time, officials said that the gang had been targeting Sikh diaspora leaders, businesses, and cultural figures in Canada, creating “a climate of insecurity.” A 2023 shooting attack on the Vancouver Island home of Punjabi-Canadian artist AP Dhillon and repeated extortion threats to community members were cited as examples of the gang’s reach. Welcoming the terror list, the World Sikh Organization said it was a vital first step but warned that accountability must go further. “The true architects of this violence must also be held to account,” the group said. Notably, India has not designated the Bishnoi Gang itself as a terrorist organisation, but it has legally declared its top individual leaders as terrorists.

US prosecutors have charged jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his close aide Goldy Brar over the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. But who is Bishnoi, and how did his criminal network grow into a global syndicate? All you need to know.

Who is Lawrence Bishnoi? All about the gangster linked to Sidhu Moose Wala and Hardeep Singh Nijjar murder cases

The Canadian province of British Columbia is preparing legal action against OpenAI over the February 10 mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, which left eight people dead. This is one of the first and landmark cases attempting to link an Artificial Intelligence company with a mass murder. The lawsuit will test the limits of AI prompting and answers when it comes to issues of crime, violence and self-destruction.<h2>What happened in Tumbler Ridge and why is OpenAI facing allegations?</h2>In the small northern community of Tumbler Ridge, Jesse Van Rootselaar killed her mother and brother at home, then five students and an educational assistant at the local secondary school, before killing herself. &nbsp;British Columbia Attorney General Niki Sharma's office said internal OpenAI reports showed its safety teams had flagged the shooter's violent ChatGPT prompts months before the attack, yet the company leadership did not notify police. OpenAI had banned an account linked to Van Rootselaar in June 2025, roughly eight months before the BC shooting, but said the content did not show evidence of an imminent attack, according to AFP.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-killed-including-shooter-killed-in-canada-school-shooting-multiple-injured-what-we-know-so-far-1770777892132">Mass shooting in Canada's British Columbia: 8, including shooter, killed in school, 2 found dead at home - What we know so far</a><h2>British Columbia mass shooting case: The core allegation against OpenAI</h2>OpenAI is facing multiple lawsuits over the shooting, many alleging that its AI models, particularly the popular ChatGPT, did not have enough guardrails to stop answering or encouraging questions to it with intent for murder or suicide. Before the British Colombia lawsuit, the families of seven victims filed their own cases in California three months earlier. Their lawyers said 12 OpenAI employees urged the company to alert police. They alleged that OpenAI stayed silent because "reporting one case would mean reporting thousands", according to the lawsuit."We will pursue every available avenue to hold OpenAI and its decision-makers accountable," BC Attorney General Sharma said in a statement issued by her office.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/montreal-shooter-s-104-page-manifesto-reveals-his-hate-for-women-and-capitalism-1782190057542">Montreal shooter's 104-page manifesto reveals his hate for women and capitalism</a>&nbsp;<h2>An apology from OpenAI CEO over the British Columbia shooting</h2>In April, OpenAI Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman published an apology letter in the local newspaper, saying he was "deeply sorry that we did not alert law enforcement" about the banned account. The company said it has strengthened its safeguards and maintains a zero-tolerance policy on the use of its tools for violence. It also said that, under guidelines updated after June 2025, the account would have been reported to law enforcement.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/canada-school-shooter-transgender-jesse-van-rootselaar-mother-jennifer-strang-1770865781929">Canada school shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, killed own mother who once called to end trans hate</a><h2>What comes next in the British Columbia mass shooting case against OpenAI?</h2>The province will seek damages, including the cost of building a new school. Jon Festinger of the University of British Columbia (UBC) Peter A. Allard School of Law said it would be a difficult claim, as BC would have to establish a direct causal link between OpenAI's conduct and the tragedy. The government "must be satisfying themselves that there's a sufficient causal chain", the Narcity website cited him as saying.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-shooting-at-least-10-dead-in-shootings-at-schools-house-1770788190832/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-shooting-at-least-10-dead-in-shootings-at-schools-house-1770788190832/embed</a>British Columbia has pioneered similar litigation in the past. It successfully pursued legal action against tobacco companies, and its opioid lawsuit recently cleared key legal hurdles. The Canadian federal government has pledged C$200 million for a new high school and healthcare upgrades in Tumbler Ridge. A coroner's inquest will examine the deaths, as no criminal trial will take place because the alleged perpetrator is deceased, The Globe and Mail reported.

British Columbia is preparing legal action against OpenAI over the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting. The suit alleges that the AI firm failed to alert police despite ChatGPT prompts linked to the shooter being flagged. This is a landmark case. Here is why

The Canadian province of British Columbia is preparing legal action against OpenAI over the February 10 mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, which left eight people dead. This is one of the first and landmark cases attempting to link an Artificial Intelligence company with a mass murder. The lawsuit will test the limits of AI prompting and answers when it comes to issues of crime, violence and self-destruction. What happened in Tumbler Ridge and why is OpenAI facing allegations? In the small northern community of Tumbler Ridge, Jesse Van Rootselaar killed her mother and brother at home, then five students and an educational assistant at the local secondary school, before killing herself. British Columbia Attorney General Niki Sharma's office said internal OpenAI reports showed its safety teams had flagged the shooter's violent ChatGPT prompts months before the attack, yet the company leadership did not notify police. OpenAI had banned an account linked to Van Rootselaar in June 2025, roughly eight months before the BC shooting, but said the content did not show evidence of an imminent attack, according to AFP. Also read: Mass shooting in Canada's British Columbia: 8, including shooter, killed in school, 2 found dead at home - What we know so far British Columbia mass shooting case: The core allegation against OpenAI OpenAI is facing multiple lawsuits over the shooting, many alleging that its AI models, particularly the popular ChatGPT, did not have enough guardrails to stop answering or encouraging questions to it with intent for murder or suicide. Before the British Colombia lawsuit, the families of seven victims filed their own cases in California three months earlier. Their lawyers said 12 OpenAI employees urged the company to alert police. They alleged that OpenAI stayed silent because "reporting one case would mean reporting thousands", according to the lawsuit. "We will pursue every available avenue to hold OpenAI and its decision-makers accountable," BC Attorney General Sharma said in a statement issued by her office. Also read: Montreal shooter's 104-page manifesto reveals his hate for women and capitalism An apology from OpenAI CEO over the British Columbia shooting In April, OpenAI Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman published an apology letter in the local newspaper, saying he was "deeply sorry that we did not alert law enforcement" about the banned account. The company said it has strengthened its safeguards and maintains a zero-tolerance policy on the use of its tools for violence. It also said that, under guidelines updated after June 2025, the account would have been reported to law enforcement. Also read: Canada school shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, killed own mother who once called to end trans hate What comes next in the British Columbia mass shooting case against OpenAI? The province will seek damages, including the cost of building a new school. Jon Festinger of the University of British Columbia (UBC) Peter A. Allard School of Law said it would be a difficult claim, as BC would have to establish a direct causal link between OpenAI's conduct and the tragedy. The government "must be satisfying themselves that there's a sufficient causal chain", the Narcity website cited him as saying. https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-shooting-at-least-10-dead-in-shootings-at-schools-house-1770788190832/embed British Columbia has pioneered similar litigation in the past. It successfully pursued legal action against tobacco companies, and its opioid lawsuit recently cleared key legal hurdles. The Canadian federal government has pledged C$200 million for a new high school and healthcare upgrades in Tumbler Ridge. A coroner's inquest will examine the deaths, as no criminal trial will take place because the alleged perpetrator is deceased, The Globe and Mail reported.

British Columbia is preparing legal action against OpenAI over the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting. The suit alleges that the AI firm failed to alert police despite ChatGPT prompts linked to the shooter being flagged. This is a landmark case. Here is why

AI and mass murder: Why British Columbia's lawsuit against OpenAI over the Tumbler Ridge shooting matters

The Irish parliament has passed legislation banning imports of goods from Israeli communities in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, marking one of the most severe trade actions taken by a European nation against Israel. The Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) bill bans products coming from goods coming from “certain Israeli settlements.” Those include residential, agricultural, and commercial operations situated outside of what it claims are Israel's internationally recognised borders. Although Ireland was the first nation to propose such a ban, Spain already implemented a package of import restrictions last October. Ireland's centre-right coalition government, which authored the bill, stated that the text was structured around a 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ). That ICJ ruling declared Israel's presence in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip to be an illegal occupation under international law.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-wanted-fbi-puts-50-000-bounty-on-lawrence-bishnoi-aide-goldy-brar-after-charging-him-in-hardeep-nijjar-murder-case-1783477220291"> 'Most wanted': FBI puts $50,000 bounty on Lawrence Bishnoi aide Goldy Brar after charging him in Hardeep Nijjar murder case</a>&nbsp;Ireland's centre-right coalition government, which authored the bill, stated that the text was structured around a 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ). That ICJ ruling declared Israel's presence in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip to be an illegal occupation under international law.<h3>Ireland's stance on Israel’s actions in Gaza</h3>Ireland has always been among the staunch critics of Israel’s actions in Gaza in the wake of the deadly terror attack in October 2023 by Hamas militants on Israel, which was recognised as a Palestinian state in 2024. In response, the Foreign Minister of Israel, Gideon Saar, directed the closure of its Dublin embassy, accusing Ireland of “extreme anti-Israel policies”.&nbsp;Last month, Dublin barred Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich from entering Ireland, citing their conduct toward pro-Palestinian activists. Additionally, Dublin has consistently advocated for a reassessment of the 1995 EU-Israel Association Agreement, which serves as the framework for trade relations between the European Union and Israel.&nbsp;While the EU recently announced it would explore strategies to curb trade with Israeli settlements, the bloc still lacks a broad consensus among its member states to enforce more stringent measures against Israel. Consequently, Ireland's unilateral import ban is largely symbolic and carries negligible economic weight; total trade with the targeted territories, consisting primarily of commodities like fruit, vegetables, and timber, amounted to less than one million euros ($1.1 million) between 2020 and 2024.

Ireland's centre-right coalition government, which authored the bill, stated that the text was structured around a 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The Irish parliament has passed legislation banning imports of goods from Israeli communities in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, marking one of the most severe trade actions taken by a European nation against Israel. The Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) bill bans products coming from goods coming from “certain Israeli settlements.” Those include residential, agricultural, and commercial operations situated outside of what it claims are Israel's internationally recognised borders. Although Ireland was the first nation to propose such a ban, Spain already implemented a package of import restrictions last October. Ireland's centre-right coalition government, which authored the bill, stated that the text was structured around a 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ). That ICJ ruling declared Israel's presence in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip to be an illegal occupation under international law. Also read: 'Most wanted': FBI puts $50,000 bounty on Lawrence Bishnoi aide Goldy Brar after charging him in Hardeep Nijjar murder case Ireland's centre-right coalition government, which authored the bill, stated that the text was structured around a 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ). That ICJ ruling declared Israel's presence in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip to be an illegal occupation under international law. Ireland's stance on Israel’s actions in Gaza Ireland has always been among the staunch critics of Israel’s actions in Gaza in the wake of the deadly terror attack in October 2023 by Hamas militants on Israel, which was recognised as a Palestinian state in 2024. In response, the Foreign Minister of Israel, Gideon Saar, directed the closure of its Dublin embassy, accusing Ireland of “extreme anti-Israel policies”. Last month, Dublin barred Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich from entering Ireland, citing their conduct toward pro-Palestinian activists. Additionally, Dublin has consistently advocated for a reassessment of the 1995 EU-Israel Association Agreement, which serves as the framework for trade relations between the European Union and Israel. While the EU recently announced it would explore strategies to curb trade with Israeli settlements, the bloc still lacks a broad consensus among its member states to enforce more stringent measures against Israel. Consequently, Ireland's unilateral import ban is largely symbolic and carries negligible economic weight; total trade with the targeted territories, consisting primarily of commodities like fruit, vegetables, and timber, amounted to less than one million euros ($1.1 million) between 2020 and 2024.

Ireland's centre-right coalition government, which authored the bill, stated that the text was structured around a 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Ireland passes bill to ban imports from Israeli settlements in West Bank, East Jerusalem

India has scored a major diplomatic win on the international stage. After years of diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, Ottawa said on Wednesday (Jul 8) that there was no evidence linking New Delhi to the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The announcement comes nearly three years after former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that his country’s security agencies were investigating credible claims of a possible link between Indian agents and the murder. The United States Department of Justice has meanwhile charged gangster Lawrence Bishnoi in connection with Nijjar’s killing.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-wanted-fbi-puts-50-000-bounty-on-lawrence-bishnoi-aide-goldy-brar-after-charging-him-in-hardeep-nijjar-murder-case-1783477220291">'Most wanted': FBI puts $50,000 bounty on Lawrence Bishnoi aide Goldy Brar after charging him in Hardeep Nijjar murder case</a><h2>'No evidence' linking Indian government officials to Nijjar killing</h2>In a statement to Canadian TV channel CBC News, Lisa Moreland, Deputy Commissioner, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said that there was "no evidence to suggest that through this organised crime syndicate investigation and the charges laid forward that Indian government officials would be charged or involved in this"."Nothing has come out to link the Indian government," she noted. The RCMP deputy chief's latest statement directly backs India's resolute denial of the allegations. India, at the time, and since, had rejected Trudeau's allegations as "absurd" and "motivated". Notably, the allegations had led to a souring in the relations between the two nations.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Canada&#39;s RCMP says no evidence has emerged in the latest organized crime investigation linking the Indian government or its officials to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Deputy Commissioner Lisa Moreland said the Nijjar homicide investigation remains separate and ongoing,… <a href="https://t.co/uLwK03wvHh">pic.twitter.com/uLwK03wvHh</a>&mdash; Shalinder Wangu (@Wangu_News18) <a href="https://x.com/Wangu_News18/status/2074690695802302779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Moreland added that investigations are still underway, based on the arrests and seizures that have taken place. "There's over 50 search warrants that were conducted today, so various intelligence and evidence will be collected through there and devices, and the investigation is ongoing," she said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lawrence-bishnoi-goldy-brar-charged-in-us-over-killing-of-hardeep-singh-nijjar-1783449075663">Lawrence Bishnoi, Goldy Brar charged in US over killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar</a><h2>Transnational operation targets those responsible for Nijjar killing</h2>Khalistani Separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar was fatally shot and killed on June 18, 2023, in the parking lot of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia. Three years after the killing, law enforcement agencies in the United States, Canada and Europe arrested 24 people, including 11 in California, in connection with three India-based transnational organised crime groups charged with multiple criminal acts, including Nijjar’s assassination. Newly unsealed indictments by the US Department of Justice also identified Lawrence Bishnoi, 33, of Punjab, a “gangster long imprisoned in India,” as responsible for Nijjar’s killing. It also charged Satinderjeet Singh, 32, alias Goldy Brar, of Punjab and the North American leader of the Bishnoi enterprise; Rohit Godara, 37, of Rajasthan and the European leader of the Bishnoi enterprise; and Sukhraj Singh Kang, 58, of Punjab. The FBI has also put a $50,000 bounty on Brar.

In a major diplomatic win for New Delhi, Canada's Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) says it has found no evidence linking the Indian government to the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India has scored a major diplomatic win on the international stage. After years of diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, Ottawa said on Wednesday (Jul 8) that there was no evidence linking New Delhi to the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The announcement comes nearly three years after former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that his country’s security agencies were investigating credible claims of a possible link between Indian agents and the murder. The United States Department of Justice has meanwhile charged gangster Lawrence Bishnoi in connection with Nijjar’s killing. Also read | 'Most wanted': FBI puts $50,000 bounty on Lawrence Bishnoi aide Goldy Brar after charging him in Hardeep Nijjar murder case 'No evidence' linking Indian government officials to Nijjar killing In a statement to Canadian TV channel CBC News, Lisa Moreland, Deputy Commissioner, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said that there was "no evidence to suggest that through this organised crime syndicate investigation and the charges laid forward that Indian government officials would be charged or involved in this". "Nothing has come out to link the Indian government," she noted. The RCMP deputy chief's latest statement directly backs India's resolute denial of the allegations. India, at the time, and since, had rejected Trudeau's allegations as "absurd" and "motivated". Notably, the allegations had led to a souring in the relations between the two nations.

In a major diplomatic win for New Delhi, Canada's Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) says it has found no evidence linking the Indian government to the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India's big diplomatic win: Canada says 'no evidence' linking New Delhi to Nijjar killing

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced a reward of up to USD 50,000 for information leading to the arrest of Satinderjeet Singh, better known as Goldy Brar, in a fresh escalation of its crackdown on the Lawrence Bishnoi organised crime network. In a post on its 'Most Wanted' X handle on Wednesday (Jul 8), the FBI said Brar is wanted for his alleged role in Lawrence Bishnoi Organized Crime Group that has been involved in violent activity in Southern California, across the United States and Canada. The agency said he is believed to be based in the US and described him as the group's alleged North American leader.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lawrence-bishnoi-goldy-brar-charged-in-us-over-killing-of-hardeep-singh-nijjar-1783449075663">Lawrence Bishnoi, Goldy Brar charged in US over killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar</a>A federal arrest warrant was issued on July 1 in the US District Court for the Central District of California, Los Angeles. He has been charged with "Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Conspiracy; Conspiracy to Interfere and Attempted Interference with Commerce by Extortion; and Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances," the federal agency said in a statement.<h2>Operation Hard Ball&nbsp;</h2>The reward comes just hours after US federal prosecutors charged Bishnoi and Brar in connection with the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18, 2023.According to the US Department of Justice, Bishnoi and Brar were among 37 defendants named in three federal indictments under "Operation Hard Ball", a coordinated sweep targeting India-based organised crime groups accused of violent crimes, extortion and international drug trafficking.Prosecutors allege that Bishnoi and Brar ordered Nijjar's killing. The Khalistani leader was shot dead outside a Sikh temple in Surrey by two gunmen, according to the indictments.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-big-diplomatic-win-canada-says-no-evidence-linking-new-delhi-to-nijjar-killing-1783486127258">India's big diplomatic win: Canada says 'no evidence' linking New Delhi to Nijjar killing</a><h2>Other accused in the Nijjar killing</h2>The filings also name other alleged gang figures, including Jaggu Bhagwanpuria and Ravinder Singh Dhanda. Prosecutors say Dhanda ran an international drug network, while the Bhagwanpuria operated as a transnational criminal syndicate with links across the US, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.&nbsp;The Justice Department was careful to note that an indictment is only an allegation and that every defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. &nbsp;

The FBI has announced a bounty of USD 50k on Goldy Brar, describing him as the alleged North American leader of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The announcement comes just hours after US charged Brar and Bishnoi in connection with the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. 

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced a reward of up to USD 50,000 for information leading to the arrest of Satinderjeet Singh, better known as Goldy Brar, in a fresh escalation of its crackdown on the Lawrence Bishnoi organised crime network. In a post on its 'Most Wanted' X handle on Wednesday (Jul 8), the FBI said Brar is wanted for his alleged role in Lawrence Bishnoi Organized Crime Group that has been involved in violent activity in Southern California, across the United States and Canada. The agency said he is believed to be based in the US and described him as the group's alleged North American leader. Also read | Lawrence Bishnoi, Goldy Brar charged in US over killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar A federal arrest warrant was issued on July 1 in the US District Court for the Central District of California, Los Angeles. He has been charged with "Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Conspiracy; Conspiracy to Interfere and Attempted Interference with Commerce by Extortion; and Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances," the federal agency said in a statement. Operation Hard Ball The reward comes just hours after US federal prosecutors charged Bishnoi and Brar in connection with the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18, 2023. According to the US Department of Justice, Bishnoi and Brar were among 37 defendants named in three federal indictments under "Operation Hard Ball", a coordinated sweep targeting India-based organised crime groups accused of violent crimes, extortion and international drug trafficking. Prosecutors allege that Bishnoi and Brar ordered Nijjar's killing. The Khalistani leader was shot dead outside a Sikh temple in Surrey by two gunmen, according to the indictments. Also read | India's big diplomatic win: Canada says 'no evidence' linking New Delhi to Nijjar killing Other accused in the Nijjar killing The filings also name other alleged gang figures, including Jaggu Bhagwanpuria and Ravinder Singh Dhanda. Prosecutors say Dhanda ran an international drug network, while the Bhagwanpuria operated as a transnational criminal syndicate with links across the US, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. The Justice Department was careful to note that an indictment is only an allegation and that every defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

The FBI has announced a bounty of USD 50k on Goldy Brar, describing him as the alleged North American leader of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The announcement comes just hours after US charged Brar and Bishnoi in connection with the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.&nbsp;

'Most wanted': FBI puts $50,000 bounty on Lawrence Bishnoi aide Goldy Brar after charging him in Hardeep Nijjar murder case

A busy Manhattan street block during the Tuesday (July 7) morning rush hour triggered an emergency evacuation due to buckling structural columns inside a 37-story skyscraper undergoing construction. The building, which was the former Pfizer head office located near Grand Central Station and the United Nations headquarters, is being converted from offices into approximately 1,600 luxury rental apartments. Totalling 1.3 million square feet, it is scheduled for completion in early 2027 as New York City's largest-ever office-to-residential conversion.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-chaos-takes-over-manhattan-s-chinatown-as-anti-ice-protesters-clash-with-cops-1764493833101">WATCH | Chaos takes over Manhattan’s Chinatown as anti-ICE protesters clash with cops</a>&nbsp;Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated that two structural columns buckled, multiple cracks appeared, and the floors are sagging. He noted that the building remains unstable and that additional movement was observed in a compromised column. No injuries were reported, and all project workers are accounted for. The project engineer and structural engineers are working on plans to shore up the tower using emergency struts and beams.&nbsp;<h2>Watch video here:</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Manhattan skyscraper at the corner of 42nd Street and 2nd Avenue is reportedly at risk of collapse, prompting the evacuation of several nearby buildings A construction worker at the scene said, &quot;The north side of the building is crumbling.&quot; The structure, the former Pfizer… <a href="https://t.co/idKQzXzNYk">pic.twitter.com/idKQzXzNYk</a>&mdash; Surajit (@surajit_ghosh2) <a href="https://x.com/surajit_ghosh2/status/2074527224435470449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While developer Metroloft insisted the affected area is a small section of one of the site's two buildings and that the entire skyscraper is not at risk of collapse, city officials warned the situation remains serious. Officials are currently determining if the structure is safe enough to enter for remedial work.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/new-york-city-celebrates-usa-s-250th-birthday-with-huge-fireworks-display-1783312896766">New York city celebrates USA's 250th birthday with huge fireworks display</a>&nbsp;As a precaution, police and firefighters evacuated nearby businesses, apartments, hotels, and a school, and streets were closed. A drone was deployed to assess the damage. Local cable channel PIX11 had to abandon its nearby studio mid-broadcast, and public transport corridors used for World Cup soccer fans—though inactive on Tuesday due to a lack of matches—were also nearby. Mayor Mamdani affirmed that people will only return once the buildings are fully safe.&nbsp;Construction workers and union representatives attributed the damage to the addition of new floors. Clifford Johnsen, a Steamfitters Local 638 union representative with 21 years of experience, stated that adding weight to the existing structure put dangerous pressure on the supports due to incorrect engineering or installation. Construction worker Fernando Sanchez, 50, reported that beams around the 21st to 25th floors bent and partially collapsed, forcing a quick evacuation. Another worker, Eddie, 28, noted he was downstairs when he learned a column was broken. Worker-shared video appeared to confirm the buckled columns within the site.

Emergency services launch a massive evacuation operation in New York City after a Manhattan skyscraper was deemed structurally unstable, causing widespread street closures and panic.

A busy Manhattan street block during the Tuesday (July 7) morning rush hour triggered an emergency evacuation due to buckling structural columns inside a 37-story skyscraper undergoing construction. The building, which was the former Pfizer head office located near Grand Central Station and the United Nations headquarters, is being converted from offices into approximately 1,600 luxury rental apartments. Totalling 1.3 million square feet, it is scheduled for completion in early 2027 as New York City's largest-ever office-to-residential conversion. Also read: WATCH | Chaos takes over Manhattan’s Chinatown as anti-ICE protesters clash with cops Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated that two structural columns buckled, multiple cracks appeared, and the floors are sagging. He noted that the building remains unstable and that additional movement was observed in a compromised column. No injuries were reported, and all project workers are accounted for. The project engineer and structural engineers are working on plans to shore up the tower using emergency struts and beams. Watch video here:

Emergency services launch a massive evacuation operation in New York City after a Manhattan skyscraper was deemed structurally unstable, causing widespread street closures and panic.

Manhattan skyscraper evacuated: Unstable building sparks major emergency in New York City

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday (Jul 7) said her relationship with US President Donald Trump remains "cordial", even as the two continue to exchange sharp remarks over NATO, Iran and a disputed photo claim that has stirred irritation in Rome. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Turkey, Meloni tried to cool speculation that the row had damaged ties between the two leaders. Her comments came after weeks of friction, much of it triggered by Trump's claim that she had "begged" him for a picture during the G7 summit in Evian, France.Meloni rejected that version of events, and the dispute was serious enough that Italy's foreign minister later cancelled a planned trip to the United States, according to CNN.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meloni-signals-truce-after-extraordinary-public-spat-with-trump-i-don-t-intend-to-keep-fuelling-this-dispute-1782265096024">Meloni signals truce after extraordinary public spat with Trump: 'I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute'</a><h2>Italy will not play along</h2>Now, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani says the government is done responding to Trump's jabs. "He speaks for himself," Tajani said, adding that Meloni and other senior officials would simply ignore the posts and comments."We have a US President who loves to provoke, especially on social media. We have decided to stop responding to these remarks so as not to fuel disputes among our allies," he told La Stampa newspaper."We are and will remain friends of the United States as our strategic partner and that of Europe," he added.His message was clear. Italy does not want this becoming a full blown diplomatic spat, even if Trump keeps pushing it in public.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/why-is-macron-wearing-sunglasses-indoors-mysterious-shades-spark-domestic-abuse-speculation-online-another-shiner-1783407347884">Why is Macron wearing sunglasses indoors? Mysterious shades spark domestic abuse speculation online: 'Another shiner?'</a><h2>Trump calls Meloni "nice" but keeps the pressure on</h2>Trump, for his part, did little to calm things down. During a bilateral meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, he described Meloni as a "nice person" but also said their relationship had turned sour after Italy refused to support US military action against Iran."I think she's a nice person, actually. But I think she made a mistake," Trump said, according to CNN. He also insisted he had not leaned on her too hard, and blamed Italy, saying its refusal had "soured" the relationship "a little bit."That followed a Truth Social post on Sunday in which Trump shared a photograph with Meloni and wrote, "RESTRAINING ORDER NEEDED."<h2>The comment that started the spat</h2>Earlier, while speaking to Italian broadcaster La7, Trump had claimed that Meloni wanted a photo with him "so badly", saying he would not have taken it but "felt sorry for her.""She begged me to take a picture with her. She wanted a picture with me so ​badly. I wouldn’t have taken it, but I felt sorry for her," he said.Meloni later fired back in a social media video, saying she was "astonished" by what she called the president's "completely made up" statements.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni says her relationship with Donald Trump remains "cordial" despite weeks of public sparring over NATO, Iran and Trump's claim that she "begged" him for a photo.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday (Jul 7) said her relationship with US President Donald Trump remains "cordial", even as the two continue to exchange sharp remarks over NATO, Iran and a disputed photo claim that has stirred irritation in Rome. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Turkey, Meloni tried to cool speculation that the row had damaged ties between the two leaders. Her comments came after weeks of friction, much of it triggered by Trump's claim that she had "begged" him for a picture during the G7 summit in Evian, France. Meloni rejected that version of events, and the dispute was serious enough that Italy's foreign minister later cancelled a planned trip to the United States, according to CNN. Also read | Meloni signals truce after extraordinary public spat with Trump: 'I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute' Italy will not play along Now, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani says the government is done responding to Trump's jabs. "He speaks for himself," Tajani said, adding that Meloni and other senior officials would simply ignore the posts and comments. "We have a US President who loves to provoke, especially on social media. We have decided to stop responding to these remarks so as not to fuel disputes among our allies," he told La Stampa newspaper. "We are and will remain friends of the United States as our strategic partner and that of Europe," he added. His message was clear. Italy does not want this becoming a full blown diplomatic spat, even if Trump keeps pushing it in public. Also read | Why is Macron wearing sunglasses indoors? Mysterious shades spark domestic abuse speculation online: 'Another shiner?' Trump calls Meloni "nice" but keeps the pressure on Trump, for his part, did little to calm things down. During a bilateral meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, he described Meloni as a "nice person" but also said their relationship had turned sour after Italy refused to support US military action against Iran. "I think she's a nice person, actually. But I think she made a mistake," Trump said, according to CNN. He also insisted he had not leaned on her too hard, and blamed Italy, saying its refusal had "soured" the relationship "a little bit." That followed a Truth Social post on Sunday in which Trump shared a photograph with Meloni and wrote, "RESTRAINING ORDER NEEDED." The comment that started the spat Earlier, while speaking to Italian broadcaster La7, Trump had claimed that Meloni wanted a photo with him "so badly", saying he would not have taken it but "felt sorry for her." "She begged me to take a picture with her. She wanted a picture with me so badly. I wouldn’t have taken it, but I felt sorry for her," he said. Meloni later fired back in a social media video, saying she was "astonished" by what she called the president's "completely made up" statements.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni says her relationship with Donald Trump remains "cordial" despite weeks of public sparring over NATO, Iran and Trump's claim that she "begged" him for a photo.

Meloni says ties with Trump remain 'cordial,' even as Italy labels him ‘US President who loves to provoke’

Oil prices climbed sharply on Wednesday (Jul 8) after fresh US strikes on Iran reignited fears over the Strait of Hormuz, the vital, narrow waterway through which a huge share of global energy supplies moves. As markets opened, West Texas Intermediate, the US benchmark, rose 2.63 per cent to $72.29 a barrel. This followed a similar 2.76 per cent gain on Tuesday.The price rise came after the US military said its forces launched strikes on Iran following attacks on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The renewed fighting has once again put the world’s most important oil chokepoint under pressure.<h2>Explosions reported near key Iranian ports</h2>Iranian state media reported multiple explosions in and around the strait. The reports said there were six blasts on Qeshm island, seven in the city of Sirik and more near Bandar Abbas, one of Iran’s biggest ports.US Central Command said the strikes were meant to punish what it called Iranian attacks on commercial shipping and warned that such actions would carry high costs.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-peace-deal-inside-the-14-point-mou-that-ended-over-108-days-of-war-wion-decodes-donald-trump-mojtaba-khamenei-benjamin-netanyahu-lebanon-1781513800001">US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes</a>Iran, however, pushed back hard. Tehran's foreign ministry accused Washington of violating the memorandum of understanding between the two sides and warned that Tehran would respond."Iran is issuing a serious warning about the consequences of America's breach of the treaty, and will take decisive measures to protect its interests and national security," the ministry said in a statement carried by official media.<h2>Shipping risk returns to the centre of the crisis</h2>The latest attacks have brought back an old fear, disruption in the Strait of Hormuz.That fear had eased in recent weeks after maritime traffic started moving again under a fragile US-Iran agreement. But the calm did not last long.British maritime security agency UKMTO said an unknown projectile hit a tanker overnight, sparking a fire. Two more vessels were then struck, with at least one hit by a drone.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-india-withstand-another-west-asia-crisis-how-israel-hezbollah-iran-tensions-could-hit-its-energy-security-wion-decodes-1782374369218">Can India withstand another West Asia crisis? How Israel-Hezbollah-Iran tensions could hit its energy security | WION Decodes</a>All three ships were attacked near Oman, where a temporary transit corridor along the coastline had been proposed. Iran has opposed that route, insisting on control over the narrow passage and the fees linked to it.Qatar said one of the vessels was its LNG tanker Al-Rekayyat and blamed Iran for the attack. Doha later summoned Iran’s deputy ambassador and demanded an explanation."We hold Iran fully legally responsible for this attack and for any resulting damages or repercussions," Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari wrote on X. Iran rejected the accusation and said it was dismayed by Qatar’s remarks.

Oil prices are climbing again after fresh US strikes on Iran reignited tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. With attacks on commercial ships and fears of supply disruptions returning, markets are once again on edge. Scroll down to find out why crude is rising, and what happened in the Gulf.

Oil prices climbed sharply on Wednesday (Jul 8) after fresh US strikes on Iran reignited fears over the Strait of Hormuz, the vital, narrow waterway through which a huge share of global energy supplies moves. As markets opened, West Texas Intermediate, the US benchmark, rose 2.63 per cent to $72.29 a barrel. This followed a similar 2.76 per cent gain on Tuesday. The price rise came after the US military said its forces launched strikes on Iran following attacks on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The renewed fighting has once again put the world’s most important oil chokepoint under pressure. Explosions reported near key Iranian ports Iranian state media reported multiple explosions in and around the strait. The reports said there were six blasts on Qeshm island, seven in the city of Sirik and more near Bandar Abbas, one of Iran’s biggest ports. US Central Command said the strikes were meant to punish what it called Iranian attacks on commercial shipping and warned that such actions would carry high costs. Also read | US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes Iran, however, pushed back hard. Tehran's foreign ministry accused Washington of violating the memorandum of understanding between the two sides and warned that Tehran would respond. "Iran is issuing a serious warning about the consequences of America's breach of the treaty, and will take decisive measures to protect its interests and national security," the ministry said in a statement carried by official media. Shipping risk returns to the centre of the crisis The latest attacks have brought back an old fear, disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. That fear had eased in recent weeks after maritime traffic started moving again under a fragile US-Iran agreement. But the calm did not last long. British maritime security agency UKMTO said an unknown projectile hit a tanker overnight, sparking a fire. Two more vessels were then struck, with at least one hit by a drone. Also read | Can India withstand another West Asia crisis? How Israel-Hezbollah-Iran tensions could hit its energy security | WION Decodes All three ships were attacked near Oman, where a temporary transit corridor along the coastline had been proposed. Iran has opposed that route, insisting on control over the narrow passage and the fees linked to it. Qatar said one of the vessels was its LNG tanker Al-Rekayyat and blamed Iran for the attack. Doha later summoned Iran’s deputy ambassador and demanded an explanation. "We hold Iran fully legally responsible for this attack and for any resulting damages or repercussions," Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari wrote on X. Iran rejected the accusation and said it was dismayed by Qatar’s remarks.

Oil prices are climbing again after fresh US strikes on Iran reignited tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. With attacks on commercial ships and fears of supply disruptions returning, markets are once again on edge. Scroll down to find out why crude is rising, and what happened in the Gulf.

Oil prices jump by 2.63% as fresh US strikes on Iran shake up Strait of Hormuz again

The US has launched a significantly larger military offensive against Iran, with a US official describing the latest operation as "four or five times bigger in scope and power" than the strikes carried out ten days ago.&nbsp;According to Axios, the official said the latest assault was the most intense US military action against Iran since the ceasefire reached in April. The official added that the operation could continue for several more hours.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-fresh-strikes-on-iranian-targets-after-merchant-ships-hit-off-oman-1783460027337">US 'violates MoU', launches fresh strikes on Iranian targets after attacks on vessels in Hormuz</a>&nbsp;Another US official told CNN that the strikes were intended as "punishment, not proportional", indicating that the military campaign was far from over. "This is punishment. It won't be over for a bit," the official told CNN. The latest escalation follows renewed attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes.&nbsp;The US military said it targeted multiple Iranian military installations near the strategic waterway after three commercial vessels were attacked on Tuesday (July 7). According to the US official, the strikes hit Iranian air defence systems, coastal surveillance installations, surface-to-air missile sites, anti-ship cruise missile positions, drone launch facilities and port infrastructure.&nbsp;Iranian state media reported multiple explosions following the strikes, including in the port cities of Bandar Abbas and Sirik, as well as on Qeshm Island. Fires were also reported at Sirik pier and Shahid Haqqani Port in Bandar Abbas.&nbsp;US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the operation was launched in response to Iranian attacks on three commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, warning that Washington would impose "heavy costs" for targeting international shipping.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-greenland-should-be-under-us-control-denmark-rejects-claim-at-nato-summit-1783452522464">Trump says Greenland should be under US control, Denmark rejects claim at NATO Summit</a>&nbsp;Iran, however, condemned the strikes, with the country's Foreign Ministry accusing Washington of repeatedly violating the memorandum of understanding signed between the two countries. Tehran warned that it would take "any action it deems necessary" to safeguard its national security and interests.&nbsp;The latest military exchange marks a sharp escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran, despite ongoing efforts to preserve a fragile ceasefire and prevent a wider conflict in West Asia.

The US launched a massive military offensive against Iranian installations near the Strait of Hormuz after shipping attacks. US officials called it a punishment, while Iran condemned the severe escalation.

The US has launched a significantly larger military offensive against Iran, with a US official describing the latest operation as "four or five times bigger in scope and power" than the strikes carried out ten days ago. According to Axios, the official said the latest assault was the most intense US military action against Iran since the ceasefire reached in April. The official added that the operation could continue for several more hours. Also read: US 'violates MoU', launches fresh strikes on Iranian targets after attacks on vessels in Hormuz Another US official told CNN that the strikes were intended as "punishment, not proportional", indicating that the military campaign was far from over. "This is punishment. It won't be over for a bit," the official told CNN. The latest escalation follows renewed attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes. The US military said it targeted multiple Iranian military installations near the strategic waterway after three commercial vessels were attacked on Tuesday (July 7). According to the US official, the strikes hit Iranian air defence systems, coastal surveillance installations, surface-to-air missile sites, anti-ship cruise missile positions, drone launch facilities and port infrastructure. Iranian state media reported multiple explosions following the strikes, including in the port cities of Bandar Abbas and Sirik, as well as on Qeshm Island. Fires were also reported at Sirik pier and Shahid Haqqani Port in Bandar Abbas. US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the operation was launched in response to Iranian attacks on three commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, warning that Washington would impose "heavy costs" for targeting international shipping. Also read: Trump says Greenland should be under US control, Denmark rejects claim at NATO Summit Iran, however, condemned the strikes, with the country's Foreign Ministry accusing Washington of repeatedly violating the memorandum of understanding signed between the two countries. Tehran warned that it would take "any action it deems necessary" to safeguard its national security and interests. The latest military exchange marks a sharp escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran, despite ongoing efforts to preserve a fragile ceasefire and prevent a wider conflict in West Asia.

The US launched a massive military offensive against Iranian installations near the Strait of Hormuz after shipping attacks. US officials called it a punishment, while Iran condemned the severe escalation.

US strikes on Iran '4-5 times bigger' than previous wave: Officials

The US launched a fresh wave of military strikes against Iranian targets early on Wednesday (July 8) after three commercial vessels were reportedly attacked in waters off the coast of Oman, marking another escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;The strikes came after the US accused Iran of targeting civilian-crewed merchant ships near the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. While the US military described the operation as a response to Iranian aggression, Tehran has warned that it will take all necessary measures to protect its national interests.<h2>What triggered the US strikes?</h2>The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said American forces began carrying out a series of "powerful strikes" against Iranian targets following attacks on three commercial vessels operating in international waters near the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-fresh-strikes-on-iranian-targets-after-merchant-ships-hit-off-oman-1783460027337">US 'violates MoU', launches fresh strikes on Iranian targets after attacks on vessels in Hormuz</a>&nbsp;According to CENTCOM, the military action was intended to impose "heavy costs" on Iran for targeting merchant ships crewed by civilians.&nbsp;The US military described the alleged attacks as "unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire." However, it did not disclose which Iranian facilities or assets were targeted, and no immediate information was released regarding casualties or damage.<h2>Explosions reported across southern Iran</h2>Iranian media reported multiple explosions in southern parts of the country shortly after the US announcement.&nbsp;According to state and semi-official media reports:<ul><li>Explosions were reported near Sirik, Qeshm and Bandar Abbas.</li><li>Iranian state media said blasts were heard both east and west of Bandar Abbas.</li><li>Projectiles reportedly struck a commercial pier in Sirik.</li><li>A fishing pier in the nearby village of Ziyarat was also reportedly hit.</li><li>Seven separate explosions were reported at Sirik port.</li><li>Mehr News Agency said no military or regional authorities had immediately confirmed the cause of the explosions.</li></ul>The extent of damage or possible casualties has not yet been confirmed.<h2>Why did the US launch the operation?</h2>CENTCOM said the strikes were a direct response to attacks on commercial shipping in the waters off Oman. In its statement, the command said the operation was aimed at imposing high costs on Iran for what it described as attacks against innocent civilian crews navigating an international waterway.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-revokes-iran-oil-waiver-after-hormuz-tanker-attacks-tightens-sanctions-1783453541771">US revokes Iran oil waiver after Hormuz tanker attacks, tightens sanctions</a>&nbsp;The US military maintained that the action was taken in response to Iran's alleged aggression and the violation of an existing ceasefire.

The US launched military strikes on southern Iran following alleged Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, causing explosions near key ports like Bandar Abbas.

The US launched a fresh wave of military strikes against Iranian targets early on Wednesday (July 8) after three commercial vessels were reportedly attacked in waters off the coast of Oman, marking another escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran. The strikes came after the US accused Iran of targeting civilian-crewed merchant ships near the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. While the US military described the operation as a response to Iranian aggression, Tehran has warned that it will take all necessary measures to protect its national interests. What triggered the US strikes? The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said American forces began carrying out a series of "powerful strikes" against Iranian targets following attacks on three commercial vessels operating in international waters near the Strait of Hormuz. Also read: US 'violates MoU', launches fresh strikes on Iranian targets after attacks on vessels in Hormuz According to CENTCOM, the military action was intended to impose "heavy costs" on Iran for targeting merchant ships crewed by civilians. The US military described the alleged attacks as "unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire." However, it did not disclose which Iranian facilities or assets were targeted, and no immediate information was released regarding casualties or damage. Explosions reported across southern Iran Iranian media reported multiple explosions in southern parts of the country shortly after the US announcement. According to state and semi-official media reports: Explosions were reported near Sirik, Qeshm and Bandar Abbas. Iranian state media said blasts were heard both east and west of Bandar Abbas. Projectiles reportedly struck a commercial pier in Sirik. A fishing pier in the nearby village of Ziyarat was also reportedly hit. Seven separate explosions were reported at Sirik port. Mehr News Agency said no military or regional authorities had immediately confirmed the cause of the explosions. The extent of damage or possible casualties has not yet been confirmed. Why did the US launch the operation? CENTCOM said the strikes were a direct response to attacks on commercial shipping in the waters off Oman. In its statement, the command said the operation was aimed at imposing high costs on Iran for what it described as attacks against innocent civilian crews navigating an international waterway. Also read: US revokes Iran oil waiver after Hormuz tanker attacks, tightens sanctions The US military maintained that the action was taken in response to Iran's alleged aggression and the violation of an existing ceasefire.

The US launched military strikes on southern Iran following alleged Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, causing explosions near key ports like Bandar Abbas.

US launches strikes on Iran: What we know about fresh attacks

Former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has said Washington should use what she described as Iran's current economic and military weakness to negotiate a deal that completely dismantles Tehran's nuclear programme, while arguing that the current memorandum of understanding (MoU) was heading in the wrong direction.&nbsp;Speaking to CNBC on Tuesday (July 7), Haley said the United States had not yet formally committed to the agreement and still had an opportunity to pursue tougher terms.&nbsp;"The MoU is going in the wrong direction, but we haven't committed to the dotted line yet," Haley said, adding that Washington should seek a deal that fully eliminates Iran's nuclear programme.Her remarks came amid rapidly escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran following a series of US military strikes on Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-fresh-strikes-on-iranian-targets-after-merchant-ships-hit-off-oman-1783460027337">US 'violates MoU', launches fresh strikes on Iranian targets after attacks on vessels in Hormuz</a>&nbsp;According to Axios, citing a US official, the American military carried out airstrikes on Iranian air defence systems, coastal surveillance systems, surface-to-air missile batteries, anti-ship cruise missile sites, drone launch facilities and port infrastructure near the strategic waterway.&nbsp;The report said the strikes were launched after Iran resumed attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz following the expiry of a one-week pause in hostilities agreed between Washington and Tehran. US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the operation was intended to impose "heavy costs" for attacks on commercial vessels operating in an international waterway. The latest military action followed Washington's decision to revoke a waiver that had allowed the sale of Iranian oil, prompting a sharp response from Tehran.&nbsp;Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi accused the United States of violating Article 10 of the Islamabad memorandum of understanding by withdrawing the waiver. In a post on X, he also alleged that Washington had repeatedly breached Articles 1 and 2 of the agreement through actions linked to Israel in Lebanon and what he described as threatening statements against Iran.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-open-to-f-35-sale-to-turkey-netanyahu-says-it-would-destroy-middle-east-power-balance-1783450141608">Trump open to F 35 sale to Turkey; Netanyahu says it would 'destroy' balance</a>&nbsp;Gharibabadi warned that Iran would take "decisive actions" to safeguard its national interests and security, while issuing what he called a serious warning over the consequences of the US breaches of the agreement. &nbsp;

Nikki Haley urged Washington to exploit Iran’s weaknesses to dismantle its nuclear programme completely, amid escalating tensions and US airstrikes following Iran’s resumed attacks on commercial shipping.

Former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has said Washington should use what she described as Iran's current economic and military weakness to negotiate a deal that completely dismantles Tehran's nuclear programme, while arguing that the current memorandum of understanding (MoU) was heading in the wrong direction. Speaking to CNBC on Tuesday (July 7), Haley said the United States had not yet formally committed to the agreement and still had an opportunity to pursue tougher terms. "The MoU is going in the wrong direction, but we haven't committed to the dotted line yet," Haley said, adding that Washington should seek a deal that fully eliminates Iran's nuclear programme. Her remarks came amid rapidly escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran following a series of US military strikes on Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz. Also read: US 'violates MoU', launches fresh strikes on Iranian targets after attacks on vessels in Hormuz According to Axios, citing a US official, the American military carried out airstrikes on Iranian air defence systems, coastal surveillance systems, surface-to-air missile batteries, anti-ship cruise missile sites, drone launch facilities and port infrastructure near the strategic waterway. The report said the strikes were launched after Iran resumed attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz following the expiry of a one-week pause in hostilities agreed between Washington and Tehran. US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the operation was intended to impose "heavy costs" for attacks on commercial vessels operating in an international waterway. The latest military action followed Washington's decision to revoke a waiver that had allowed the sale of Iranian oil, prompting a sharp response from Tehran. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi accused the United States of violating Article 10 of the Islamabad memorandum of understanding by withdrawing the waiver. In a post on X, he also alleged that Washington had repeatedly breached Articles 1 and 2 of the agreement through actions linked to Israel in Lebanon and what he described as threatening statements against Iran. Also read: Trump open to F 35 sale to Turkey; Netanyahu says it would 'destroy' balance Gharibabadi warned that Iran would take "decisive actions" to safeguard its national interests and security, while issuing what he called a serious warning over the consequences of the US breaches of the agreement.

Nikki Haley urged Washington to exploit Iran’s weaknesses to dismantle its nuclear programme completely, amid escalating tensions and US airstrikes following Iran’s resumed attacks on commercial shipping.

US should use Iran’s weakness to secure tougher nuclear deal: Nikki Haley

The United States military launched a fresh wave of strikes against Iranian targets early on Wednesday (July 8) after three merchant ships were struck in waters off Oman. In a statement posted on social media, the US Central Command said the strikes were carried out “to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. Central Command forces have begun launching a series of powerful strikes against Iran to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway. The U.S. strikes are in response to Iranian attacks on three…&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2074603238175998290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The military said the action followed attacks on three merchant vessels operating off the coast of Oman. It did not immediately provide further details on the strikes or identify the specific Iranian targets.

"Iran’s demonstrated aggression was unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire," US Central Command said in its statement. There was no immediate response from Iranian authorities, and the extent of any damage or casualties resulting from the strikes was not immediately known.&nbsp;Several explosions were heard in Sirik County in southern Iran, according to Iran's semi-official Mehr News Agency, just hours after the United States warned Tehran it would face consequences over recent attacks on commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Mehr reported that no official, military or regional law enforcement authority had yet confirmed the cause of the explosions or provided further details.<h2>Iran's response to ‘blatant violation’&nbsp;</h2>Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi on Tuesday accused the United States of violating the US-Iran Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, saying Washington's decision to revoke a waiver permitting Iranian oil sales was a "blatant violation" of Article 10 of the agreement.&nbsp;In a post on X, Gharibabadi also alleged that the US had repeatedly breached Articles 1 and 2 of the memorandum over the past three weeks, citing the actions of Israel in Lebanon and what he described as threatening statements against Iran.&nbsp;"Iran, while issuing a serious warning regarding the consequences of America's breach of the agreement, will take decisive actions to safeguard its national interests and security," he said. &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">آمریکا در سه هفته گذشته نیز بواسطه اقدامات رژیم صهیونیستی در لبنان و اظهارات تهدیدآمیز علیه ایران، بارها مرتکب نقض بندهای ۱ و ۲ یادداشت تفاهم شده است. ایران ضمن هشدار جدی نسبت به تبعات پیمان‌شکنی‌ آمریکا، اقدامات قاطعی را در صیانت از منافع و امنیت ملی خود اتخاذ خواهد کرد. (۲)&mdash; Gharibabadi (@Gharibabadi) <a href="https://x.com/Gharibabadi/status/2074605575208337747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The United States military launched a fresh wave of strikes against Iranian targets early on Wednesday (July 8) after three merchant ships were struck in waters off Oman.

The United States military launched a fresh wave of strikes against Iranian targets early on Wednesday (July 8) after three merchant ships were struck in waters off Oman. In a statement posted on social media, the US Central Command said the strikes were carried out “to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway.”

The United States military launched a fresh wave of strikes against Iranian targets early on Wednesday (July 8) after three merchant ships were struck in waters off Oman.

US 'violates MoU', launches fresh strikes on Iranian targets after attacks on vessels in Hormuz

A Pakistani cargo aircraft carrying five crew members went missing late on Tuesday (July 7) after rapidly descending and losing contact with air traffic controllers off the coast of the southern port city of Karachi, according to Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority. The authority said search-and-rescue operations were underway in the Arabian Sea following the disappearance. The cause of the incident was not immediately known.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brought-two-nations-closer-why-pm-modi-praised-biju-patnaik-in-indonesia-1783447009700">‘Brought two nations closer’: Why PM Modi praised Biju Patnaik in Indonesia</a>&nbsp;The aircraft, a Boeing 737 operated by K2 Airways, was on a cargo flight from Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates to Karachi when it reported a navigation system problem at 9:18 p.m. local time, the Civil Aviation Authority said in a post on X.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-28-000-russian-troops-killed-in-june-zelensky-pitches-ukraine-s-nato-membership-to-boost-alliance-capabilities-1783432931953">'28,000 Russian troops killed in June': Zelensky pushes for NATO membership</a>&nbsp;According to the authority, radar data showed the aircraft rapidly descending and making a sharp change in heading at around 9:21 p.m. Shortly afterwards, radar and radio contact with the plane were lost.&nbsp;The aircraft disappeared approximately 155 nautical miles (287 kilometres or 178 miles) west of Karachi, officials said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rick-scott-pakistan-neutrality-khamenei-criticism-us-iran-mediation-1783424421189">'Where Bin Laden hid...': Rick Scott slams Pakistan after Khamenei tribute</a>&nbsp;Authorities said search efforts were continuing as emergency teams worked to locate the aircraft and its five crew members. No further details were immediately available. &nbsp;

A K2 Airways Boeing 737 cargo plane carrying five crew members went missing over the Arabian Sea near Karachi after reporting a navigation malfunction and suffering a rapid descent.

A Pakistani cargo aircraft carrying five crew members went missing late on Tuesday (July 7) after rapidly descending and losing contact with air traffic controllers off the coast of the southern port city of Karachi, according to Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority. The authority said search-and-rescue operations were underway in the Arabian Sea following the disappearance. The cause of the incident was not immediately known. Also read: ‘Brought two nations closer’: Why PM Modi praised Biju Patnaik in Indonesia The aircraft, a Boeing 737 operated by K2 Airways, was on a cargo flight from Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates to Karachi when it reported a navigation system problem at 9:18 p.m. local time, the Civil Aviation Authority said in a post on X. Also read: '28,000 Russian troops killed in June': Zelensky pushes for NATO membership According to the authority, radar data showed the aircraft rapidly descending and making a sharp change in heading at around 9:21 p.m. Shortly afterwards, radar and radio contact with the plane were lost. The aircraft disappeared approximately 155 nautical miles (287 kilometres or 178 miles) west of Karachi, officials said. Also read: 'Where Bin Laden hid...': Rick Scott slams Pakistan after Khamenei tribute Authorities said search efforts were continuing as emergency teams worked to locate the aircraft and its five crew members. No further details were immediately available.

A K2 Airways Boeing 737 cargo plane carrying five crew members went missing over the Arabian Sea near Karachi after reporting a navigation malfunction and suffering a rapid descent.

Boeing 737 cargo plane, with 5 crew members, goes missing off Karachi

The US has revoked a general licence that had temporarily authorised the production, delivery and sale of Iranian-origin crude oil and petroleum products following recent tanker attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, according to a Reuters report citing a US official.&nbsp;The official said Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz were "wholly unacceptable" to the US and would be met with consequences. Despite the latest escalation, the official said negotiators were continuing to work in good faith towards reaching a final agreement with Iran.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-greenland-should-be-under-us-control-denmark-rejects-claim-at-nato-summit-1783452522464">Trump says Greenland should be under US control, Denmark rejects claim at NATO Summit</a>&nbsp;The move comes after the US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) withdrew General License X, which had been issued on June 21, and replaced it with a new authorisation, General License X1, effective from Tuesday (July 7).&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-28-000-russian-troops-killed-in-june-zelensky-pitches-ukraine-s-nato-membership-to-boost-alliance-capabilities-1783432931953">'28,000 Russian troops killed in June': Zelensky pushes for NATO membership</a>&nbsp;Under the revised licence, companies have until July 17 to wind down transactions that were previously authorised under the June 21 waiver. However, the new rules prohibit any new purchases or loading of Iranian-origin crude oil, petrochemical products or petroleum products from July 7 onwards.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uss-abraham-lincoln-arabian-sea-gulf-of-oman-iran-hormuz-1783441365444">USS Abraham Lincoln moves away from Gulf of Oman to Arabian Sea</a>&nbsp;The Treasury said any payments involving a blocked person must be deposited into a blocked, interest-bearing account in the United States in accordance with sanctions regulations. The revocation follows heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route, after tanker attacks that prompted Washington to tighten restrictions on Iranian oil-related transactions while maintaining diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a final agreement with Tehran.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uss-abraham-lincoln-arabian-sea-gulf-of-oman-iran-hormuz-1783441365444">USS Abraham Lincoln moves away from Gulf of Oman to Arabian Sea</a>

After recent tanker attacks in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the US revoked General License X - a waiver temporarily authorising the sale and delivery of Iranian-origin crude oil.

The US has revoked a general licence that had temporarily authorised the production, delivery and sale of Iranian-origin crude oil and petroleum products following recent tanker attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, according to a Reuters report citing a US official. The official said Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz were "wholly unacceptable" to the US and would be met with consequences. Despite the latest escalation, the official said negotiators were continuing to work in good faith towards reaching a final agreement with Iran. Also read: Trump says Greenland should be under US control, Denmark rejects claim at NATO Summit The move comes after the US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) withdrew General License X, which had been issued on June 21, and replaced it with a new authorisation, General License X1, effective from Tuesday (July 7). Also read: '28,000 Russian troops killed in June': Zelensky pushes for NATO membership Under the revised licence, companies have until July 17 to wind down transactions that were previously authorised under the June 21 waiver. However, the new rules prohibit any new purchases or loading of Iranian-origin crude oil, petrochemical products or petroleum products from July 7 onwards. Also read: USS Abraham Lincoln moves away from Gulf of Oman to Arabian Sea The Treasury said any payments involving a blocked person must be deposited into a blocked, interest-bearing account in the United States in accordance with sanctions regulations. The revocation follows heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route, after tanker attacks that prompted Washington to tighten restrictions on Iranian oil-related transactions while maintaining diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a final agreement with Tehran. Also read: USS Abraham Lincoln moves away from Gulf of Oman to Arabian Sea

After recent tanker attacks in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the US revoked General License X - a waiver temporarily authorising the sale and delivery of Iranian-origin crude oil.&nbsp;

US revokes Iran oil waiver after Hormuz tanker attacks, tightens sanctions

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