The Early Spring is proof not everyone can talk about their real feelings, and it is perfectly OK

UN votes to ‘correct the map’ as India backs fairer world view

Nigerian Navy discovers 99,000 litres of suspected stolen, illegally refined products as it intensifies anti-crude oil theft operations

Who is Aditi Paudel? 17-year-old becomes Japan's first literacy ambassador

Bengaluru: Officials find 40 kg expired chilli at chairman's club 

Jaishankar rejects trade link to ending Ukraine war 

Israeli strikes on Lebanon kill three, injure 23 despite truce

Alpine glacier was covered with sheep wool sheets to prevent melting. It worked

South Korea mulls deploying military assets to Strait of Hormuz

World's fifth-largest economy, British army can't afford to train

Breaking | Vance takes the podium: First White House briefing since Leavitt's exit

Taiwan raises 'concerns' over China's missile test

BRICS 2026: $1 trillion sovereign capital set to converge in Delhi for first iBRICS Summit

What is Iran's Pickaxe Mountain that Trump has again threatened to bomb?

UN votes to correct world map that visually shrank Africa for 450 years

Former NewJeans member Danielle launches YouTube channel, hints at new solo journey

Bangladesh batter Towhid Hridoy creates history with 350 not out in South Africa

Brendan Fraser’s transformation fuels The Mummy 4 excitement as fans welcome back Rick O’Connell

Krishna Janmashtami 2026: From Dhaniya Panjiri to Makhana Kheer- 5 best sweet dishes perfect for celebrating Lord Krishna’s birth

Donald Trump plans to travel to Ireland on Qatari-donated jet amid security concerns

Nazi-looted art to return to Jewish heirs

Eight killed in Kerala’s Thrissur after car rams into lorry parked on highway

Why Russian fighter jets use bulky, low-pressure tyres compared to US jets

FBI-wanted fraud accused arrested in Jalandhar over $600,000 scam

Why US tanks weigh over 20 tons more than Russian tanks

New Friday OTT releases (September 4, 2026): GDN, Dhamaal 4, Jagamae Sangeetham- Watch 6 new movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Killing the Himalayas slowly: Human urine is melting a glacier on Mount Everest

After a long wait of over three days, Pakistan's Election Commission has declared the results of 265 constituencies that went to polls. The independent candidates linked to Imran Khan's PTI are sitting at 101 seat victory. Watch to know more!

Pakistan Elections 2024: Independent candidates to choose a party within 72 hours

Two of Indonesia's three presidential contenders pledged to protect press freedom in the world's third-largest democracy at a weekend event that frontrunner Prabowo Subianto didn't attend.

The event was held just days ahead of the February 14 poll, at a time when some Indonesians raise concerns over erosion of the country's hard-won democratic freedoms. Criticism over political interference has been levelled especially at outgoing President Joko Widodo, who has given tacit support to Prabowo.

In the past, incumbents wrapping up their second term as president have remained neutral.

On the last day of campaigning, ex-Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan and ex-Central Java governor Ganjar Pranowo signed the National Press Council's written declarations to uphold democracy and press freedom.

It was unclear if Prabowo, represented at the Saturday (Feb 10) event by the head of his campaign team, signed the declaration. His campaign did not respond to queries on the matter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/polls-show-defence-minister-prabowo-subianto-in-the-lead-indonesia-elections-681295">Watch |&nbsp;Polls show defence minister Prabowo Subianto in the lead | Indonesia Elections</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/polls-show-defence-minister-prabowo-subianto-in-the-lead-indonesia-elections-681295/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Prabowo is projected by some opinion surveys to pip the 50 per cent threshold needed to win the election in a single round.

The former special forces commander, who is making his third run at the presidency, has long faced allegations of rights abuses during his time in the military. He denies the accusations, but critics have questioned Prabowo's commitment to protecting human rights.

Prabowo's campaign chief, Rosan Roeslani, said at the event: "Freedom of the press is something that we absolutely must maintain and improve because it is one of the spearheads of our democracy."

Rosan did not explain Prabowo's absence from the event.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-poll-projects-prabowo-gaining-majority-votes-in-presidential-election-688645">Also read |&nbsp;Indonesia poll projects Prabowo gaining majority votes in presidential election</a>

Last week, Human Rights Watch said Prabowo did not respond to a questionnaire on key rights issues facing Indonesians, while Anies and Ganjar submitted detailed answers.

"Two of the main political teams have done Indonesian voters a service by sharing their views," said Elaine Pearson, Asia director at Human Rights Watch.

"Indonesian voters need to know (all candidates') positions on many important issues that affect them and the communities in which they live." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Two of Indonesia's three presidential contenders pledged to protect press freedom in the world's third-largest democracy at a weekend event that frontrunner Prabowo Subianto didn't attend.

Two of Indonesia's three presidential contenders pledged to protect press freedom in the world's third-largest democracy at a weekend event that frontrunner Prabowo Subianto didn't attend. The event was held just days ahead of the February 14 poll, at a time when some Indonesians raise concerns over erosion of the country's hard-won democratic freedoms. Criticism over political interference has been levelled especially at outgoing President Joko Widodo, who has given tacit support to Prabowo. In the past, incumbents wrapping up their second term as president have remained neutral. On the last day of campaigning, ex-Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan and ex-Central Java governor Ganjar Pranowo signed the National Press Council's written declarations to uphold democracy and press freedom. It was unclear if Prabowo, represented at the Saturday (Feb 10) event by the head of his campaign team, signed the declaration. His campaign did not respond to queries on the matter. Watch | Polls show defence minister Prabowo Subianto in the lead | Indonesia Elections × Prabowo is projected by some opinion surveys to pip the 50 per cent threshold needed to win the election in a single round. The former special forces commander, who is making his third run at the presidency, has long faced allegations of rights abuses during his time in the military. He denies the accusations, but critics have questioned Prabowo's commitment to protecting human rights. Prabowo's campaign chief, Rosan Roeslani, said at the event: "Freedom of the press is something that we absolutely must maintain and improve because it is one of the spearheads of our democracy." Rosan did not explain Prabowo's absence from the event. Also read | Indonesia poll projects Prabowo gaining majority votes in presidential election Last week, Human Rights Watch said Prabowo did not respond to a questionnaire on key rights issues facing Indonesians, while Anies and Ganjar submitted detailed answers. "Two of the main political teams have done Indonesian voters a service by sharing their views," said Elaine Pearson, Asia director at Human Rights Watch. "Indonesian voters need to know (all candidates') positions on many important issues that affect them and the communities in which they live." (With inputs from agencies)

Days ahead of Indonesia presidential elections, frontrunner Subianto skips press freedom event

The counting of votes that is unfolded and also the many permutations and combinations that have been thrown off now a pertinent question now remains to be answered and this is who will now become the next prime minister of Pakistan. Counting of votes is still underway...Watch to know more!

Pakistan Elections 2024: PPP to decide on party's course after final result declared

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has ordered the military to prepare a plan for the evacuation of the population of the southern Gaza city of Rafah ahead of an expected ground invasion. EU and UN express concern over Rafah ground attack. US has warned Israel an invasion of Rafah would be a disaster. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas War: US warns Israel an invasion of Rafah would be a disaster

On #ThisWorld with Vikram Chandra: Who will be Pakistan's next Prime Minister? Imran Khan-backed Independents have won the highest number of seats in Pakistan elections. Nawaz Sharif's PML-N has emerged as the party with the most seats, followed by Bilawal Bhutto's PPP. But no one has the numbers to form a govt alone. Will Sharif and Bhutto join hands to keep Imran Khan out?

Pakistan Election: Imran Khan claims victory, Nawaz Sharif calls for a coalition

Biden told reporters on live TV that his 'memory is fine', but during the same address he referred to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi as President of Mexico. This week, Biden also confused European leader with their dead predecessors. He confused Angela Merkel with Helmut Kohl and Emmanuel Macron with Francois Mitterrand.

Biden says his 'memory is fine,' Why does he keep forgetting names then?

Latest in Russia-Ukraine war: Russia bombards Ukraine as three Russian drones hit Ukraine's Kharkiv. Russia launched a drone attack on Ukraine city of Kharkiv, killing seven people. The attacked damaged infrastructure and residential houses. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Three Russian drones hit Ukraine's Kharkiv

Latest in Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif reaching out to rival parties PPP, MQM-P, JUI-F for coalition government. Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif said, "all parties to sit together and form a government." Pakistan's voters have spoken but the Mandate is anything but clear as the counting process inches close to a finish no single party has received a required majority to form the government. Now this has led to a hung Parliament. Now in the latest press conference PTI chairman has said that the party will not negotiate with anyone. Watch to know more!

Pakistan Elections 2024: PTI chairman Gohar Ali Khan responds to WION over alliance formation

A daily habit of drinking tea may help you live a longer, healthier life, especially if you drink two cups or more, according to a study. Watch to know more!

Tea consumption linked to reduced risk of heart disease, delayed ageing: Research

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online" which will help increase tourism. The minister is in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference. He also pointed to the establishment of Indian IIT in his country. He said, 'Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka'.&nbsp;

Here's the full conversation

WION: I have with me the &nbsp;Sri Lankan foreign minister here in Perth at the Indian Ocean conference. SIR welcome to WION, starting with the Indian Ocean, how do you see this region? Going forward there are several challenges we have seen like the crisis in the Red Sea.

Ali Sabry: I think the Indian Ocean is going to be very important for the future... future of the region and for the globe. Therefore, it's important that make collaborative partnerships, understand each other give diplomacy a chance and try to resolve issues through dialogue. So that could only be done through these kinds of involvement.

WION: Essentially, how can Sri Lanka play an important role in terms of providing stability to regions sir?

Ali Sabry: Sri Lanka as you know always advocated peace in the Indian Ocean. In 1971, we went to the UN and resolved a resolution. We moved the resolution to maintain the Indian Ocean and that space as a zone of peace. So that's our legacy. So we continue to do so. I think India could play a very balancing role, given our&nbsp;independent foreign policy and allied foreign policy and close leadership and the friendship that we have traditionally maintained with India and also with the other powers, both on the West and the East. So, therefore, I feel Sri Lanka can play a very important role. And I think being the chair of the IORA, we try to make use of this opportunity to bring parties together. We intend to have an IORA Summit, if the leaders' calendar permits that this year.

WION: You are planning an IORA summit... are the leaders... has there been a conversation with other countries?

Ali Sabry: Yes, of course, we have during the foreign ministers meeting in October in Colombo, we discussed this and in&nbsp;principle parties agreed. Of course, it all depends on how the leaders' calendar will suit them.

WION: Sir coming to the bilateral aspect, how is the relationship between India and Sri Lanka going forward? India played an important role in making sure that $4 billion was given to your country when it was going through an economic crisis.

Ali Sabry: I think Sri Lanka and India have read partnership in the recent past a it has really improved Sri Lankans, as you very correctly pointed out, with gratitude remember, the great support extended by the Indians during the crucial hour in 2022. Because the challenge at that point in time was to get the bridging financing until IMF go through the EFF and other things have been going on. We need to live for a day or two. So that was a very euro too during that particular period of time. India played a great role by extending that facility by the credit line and also postponing UPI payments and all those things. So we are very grateful. I think that has provided an opportunity for further collaboration and we are happy to see a lot of projects which have been in the pipeline for a long period of time are ultimately realizing a lot of interest on the part of the Indian companies to engage in Sri Lanka, not only government to government, but private sector as well as people to people contact has improved. We have seen an upsurge of the Indian tourists coming towards Sri Lanka. So I think these are good times. We must capitalize on that and create a situation which is good for both countries.

WION: Usage of Indian rupee anything on the anvil?

Ali Sabry: Yes, I think by the next 12 the UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online. So hopefully with that UPL will be a lab in Colombo. So that will boost the tourism back in Sri Lanka again.

WION: So when it will be launched, you have a date?

Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think we are now scheduled to virtually sign that &nbsp;on the 12th of this month. Okay, so with that it will be officially launched.

WION: Okay, that's a big development. We had an interview with your president as well who spoke about the establishment of IIT in Sri Lanka, if you can give me details.

Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think a delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka, probably in the district of either Candy or Nuwara Eliya. So we will be in the hill country, so therefore, we see a lot of potential and I see a lot of potential for education in Sri Lanka, and collaboration and partnership with IIT is a good way to look at it.

WION: Sir my final question to you is, essentially, when it comes to the region, we have talked about the Indian Ocean region, but there are groupings as well. You mentioned about the IORA. &nbsp;BIMSTEC is a grouping that is an emerging grouping. What's your hope on that grouping?

Ali Sabry: BIMSTEC we had about last year in Thailand, we had a very interesting and important discussion among the foreign ministers, in which we discussed the way forward for the BIMSTEC. I say BIMSTEC is a very vibrant organisation, with a lot of potential in the Bay of Bengal initiative. So with the land connectivity with India is interested and with the land connectivity on which Sri Lanka is focused, we see BIMSTEC as a viable strong organisation. Hopefully, we can strengthen this further. So Thailand is the current chair and last year we were to have a summit but we couldn't have it. Hopefully, we will have it sometime towards the end of the year. And with that, we could give some impetus. See that the BIMSTEC plays a role to connect the region and improve economic abilities for everybody in the region.

WION: I'm tempted to ask another question. And this is related to one of your replies in New York that became very viral in India and was related to Canada. How do you see the Canadian government's policy? We know that they continue to make remarks on India the relationship with Sri Lanka we know is something that hasn't been said it ends as well.

Ali Sabry: I think it's important that people should know there a two sides to any story before jumping to a conclusion and only please, a segment of a society or community is not that great. That's not diplomacy. So therefore, we would urge all parties to take diverse opinions and give diplomacy a chance and don't be carried out with one-sided versions, which have been promoted by certain people with a hidden agenda and ulterior motives, because countries cannot get isolated themselves. Everyone needs everyone. So globalization means that people-to-people contact matters. So people-to-people contact means every.. whole people matters not a group of people matters. So that's the message I have to give. We would urge that all perspectives be taken into consideration in deciding the country's policy towards another country. For example, if it is Sri Lanka, take the perspective of the Sri Lankan government, the Sri Lankan community at large, not a particular segment of the Sri Lankan community. So that's how we can build relationships and build bridges is easy to you know, build walls and divide people challenge is to bring people together. So that challenge cannot be done through ill advice or one-sided acts, it needs to be a broader perspective, sit and discuss, and give diplomacy a chance.

WION: Thank you...

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed.

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online" which will help increase tourism. The minister is in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference. He also pointed to the establishment of Indian IIT in his country. He said, 'Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka'. Here's the full conversation WION: I have with me the Sri Lankan foreign minister here in Perth at the Indian Ocean conference. SIR welcome to WION, starting with the Indian Ocean, how do you see this region? Going forward there are several challenges we have seen like the crisis in the Red Sea. Ali Sabry: I think the Indian Ocean is going to be very important for the future... future of the region and for the globe. Therefore, it's important that make collaborative partnerships, understand each other give diplomacy a chance and try to resolve issues through dialogue. So that could only be done through these kinds of involvement. WION: Essentially, how can Sri Lanka play an important role in terms of providing stability to regions sir? Ali Sabry: Sri Lanka as you know always advocated peace in the Indian Ocean. In 1971, we went to the UN and resolved a resolution. We moved the resolution to maintain the Indian Ocean and that space as a zone of peace. So that's our legacy. So we continue to do so. I think India could play a very balancing role, given our independent foreign policy and allied foreign policy and close leadership and the friendship that we have traditionally maintained with India and also with the other powers, both on the West and the East. So, therefore, I feel Sri Lanka can play a very important role. And I think being the chair of the IORA, we try to make use of this opportunity to bring parties together. We intend to have an IORA Summit, if the leaders' calendar permits that this year. WION: You are planning an IORA summit... are the leaders... has there been a conversation with other countries? Ali Sabry: Yes, of course, we have during the foreign ministers meeting in October in Colombo, we discussed this and in principle parties agreed. Of course, it all depends on how the leaders' calendar will suit them. WION: Sir coming to the bilateral aspect, how is the relationship between India and Sri Lanka going forward? India played an important role in making sure that $4 billion was given to your country when it was going through an economic crisis. Ali Sabry: I think Sri Lanka and India have read partnership in the recent past a it has really improved Sri Lankans, as you very correctly pointed out, with gratitude remember, the great support extended by the Indians during the crucial hour in 2022. Because the challenge at that point in time was to get the bridging financing until IMF go through the EFF and other things have been going on. We need to live for a day or two. So that was a very euro too during that particular period of time. India played a great role by extending that facility by the credit line and also postponing UPI payments and all those things. So we are very grateful. I think that has provided an opportunity for further collaboration and we are happy to see a lot of projects which have been in the pipeline for a long period of time are ultimately realizing a lot of interest on the part of the Indian companies to engage in Sri Lanka, not only government to government, but private sector as well as people to people contact has improved. We have seen an upsurge of the Indian tourists coming towards Sri Lanka. So I think these are good times. We must capitalize on that and create a situation which is good for both countries. WION: Usage of Indian rupee anything on the anvil? Ali Sabry: Yes, I think by the next 12 the UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online. So hopefully with that UPL will be a lab in Colombo. So that will boost the tourism back in Sri Lanka again. WION: So when it will be launched, you have a date? Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think we are now scheduled to virtually sign that on the 12th of this month. Okay, so with that it will be officially launched. WION: Okay, that's a big development. We had an interview with your president as well who spoke about the establishment of IIT in Sri Lanka, if you can give me details. Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think a delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka, probably in the district of either Candy or Nuwara Eliya. So we will be in the hill country, so therefore, we see a lot of potential and I see a lot of potential for education in Sri Lanka, and collaboration and partnership with IIT is a good way to look at it. WION: Sir my final question to you is, essentially, when it comes to the region, we have talked about the Indian Ocean region, but there are groupings as well. You mentioned about the IORA. BIMSTEC is a grouping that is an emerging grouping. What's your hope on that grouping? Ali Sabry: BIMSTEC we had about last year in Thailand, we had a very interesting and important discussion among the foreign ministers, in which we discussed the way forward for the BIMSTEC. I say BIMSTEC is a very vibrant organisation, with a lot of potential in the Bay of Bengal initiative. So with the land connectivity with India is interested and with the land connectivity on which Sri Lanka is focused, we see BIMSTEC as a viable strong organisation. Hopefully, we can strengthen this further. So Thailand is the current chair and last year we were to have a summit but we couldn't have it. Hopefully, we will have it sometime towards the end of the year. And with that, we could give some impetus. See that the BIMSTEC plays a role to connect the region and improve economic abilities for everybody in the region. WION: I'm tempted to ask another question. And this is related to one of your replies in New York that became very viral in India and was related to Canada. How do you see the Canadian government's policy? We know that they continue to make remarks on India the relationship with Sri Lanka we know is something that hasn't been said it ends as well. Ali Sabry: I think it's important that people should know there a two sides to any story before jumping to a conclusion and only please, a segment of a society or community is not that great. That's not diplomacy. So therefore, we would urge all parties to take diverse opinions and give diplomacy a chance and don't be carried out with one-sided versions, which have been promoted by certain people with a hidden agenda and ulterior motives, because countries cannot get isolated themselves. Everyone needs everyone. So globalization means that people-to-people contact matters. So people-to-people contact means every.. whole people matters not a group of people matters. So that's the message I have to give. We would urge that all perspectives be taken into consideration in deciding the country's policy towards another country. For example, if it is Sri Lanka, take the perspective of the Sri Lankan government, the Sri Lankan community at large, not a particular segment of the Sri Lankan community. So that's how we can build relationships and build bridges is easy to you know, build walls and divide people challenge is to bring people together. So that challenge cannot be done through ill advice or one-sided acts, it needs to be a broader perspective, sit and discuss, and give diplomacy a chance. WION: Thank you...

Exclusive | Sri Lanka to launch UPI on February 12, says Foreign Minister Sabry

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed his military to prepare to evacuate an estimated 1.3 million people in the city. This comes ahead of a looming ground offensive in Gaza's southern border city of Rafah.

Israel-Hamas war: One million palestinians trapped in Rafah

Pakistan Elections 2024: 'All parties to sit together, form a government,' says Nawaz Sharif

A string of alleged migrants attacks in New York has sparked an election year outrage in the US. As immigration continues to be a hot issue ahead of the November 2024 general elections. in the latest such incident a 15-year-old Venezuelan migrant has been taken into custody by US Marshals after a nearly a day long Manhunt following the Time Square shooting at a sporting goods store. Watch to know more!

New York migrant crisis: Multiple cases of alleged migrant attacks surface NYC

Former United States president and current presidential hopeful Donald Trump on Saturday (Feb 10) celebrated the collapse of a bipartisan bill that talked about reforms to address the US-Mexico border crisis.

Former United States president and current presidential hopeful Donald Trump on Saturday (Feb 10) celebrated the collapse of a bipartisan bill that talked about reforms to address the US-Mexico border crisis. On Wednesday, Senate Republicans rejected the bill that would have included the much-needed new funding for Ukraine, plus aid for Israel, along with reforms to address the border crisis. At a rally in South Carolina, Trump celebrated the collapse of the legislation, vowing that, if reelected, he would carry out a massive "deportation operation" on his first day in office. "Let's not forget that this week we also had another massive victory that every conservative should celebrate. We crushed crooked Joe Biden's disastrous open borders bill," Trump said. Also read | 'I share personal relationship with Trump,' says Putin; hints US journalist can be released "The whole group did a great job in Congress," he added. Largest domestic deportation operation in US history During the rally, Trump said that on his first day in office, he would terminate every open border policy of the Biden administration and Washington would begin the largest domestic deportation operation in American history. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Senate is considering a foreign aid package that decouples the aid from the border issue entirely. The package, which is worth $95 billion, set to be debated next week includes funding for Israel's fight against Hamas militants and for key strategic ally Taiwan. Meanwhile, Trump also said that he would encourage Russia to attack NATO members who had not met their financial obligations. Also watch | US Supreme Court skeptical of keeping Trump off the ballot × Describing a conversation with a fellow head of state at an unspecified NATO meeting, he said, "One of the presidents of a big country stood up and said, 'Well, sir, if we don't pay, and we're attacked by Russia, will you protect us?' I said, 'You didn't pay, you're delinquent?'" "No, I would not protect you. In fact, I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want. You got to pay. You got to pay your bills," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump celebrates collapse of bill on reforms to address US-Mexico border crisis

The United States is probably gunning for another rematch between Joe Biden and Donald Trump. While Trump is busy hopping from one rally to another winning primaries a Special Counsel report on Joe Biden has once again brought his rival's age into focus.

US: Special counsel report ignites debate over Biden's age

China on Friday (Feb 9) kickstarted the preparations for the Lunar New Year holiday with people cramming onto trains, and boarding planes in order to get back to their hometown for celebrations.

The country has been ramping up travel connectivity in order to ease the transportation facility after extreme weather conditions posed challenges for the ones heading home for the traditional reunion dinner gatherings.

Nearly 1,873 passenger trains were added in a day across a vast railway network, a record according to state media outlet Global Times.

Railway activity was back to the fore after freezing rain and snow hampered train services&nbsp;earlier in the week.

Some of the passengers were stuck on trains for hours after power supplies were cut.

Many provinces rushed to heighten emergency response efforts in order to remove snow that blocked traffic flow on several highways, leaving passengers stranded in cars.&nbsp;

The authorities also made efforts to clear the snow off power lines, and train tracks and de-ice planes and runways at airports.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-10mn-award-for-information-on-hive-ransomware-gang-688682">US announces $10mn award for information on Hive ransomware gang</a>

<h2>13.1 million passengers travel aboard China's national railway</h2>

On Wednesday (Feb 7), nearly 13.1 million passengers travelled on China's national railway making it one of the busiest travel migration periods in the world.

This marked the very first time that the Spring Festival travel rush, which is also known as the Chunyun period, exceeded 13 million in aday, as per Global Times.

On Friday, railway stations across Shanghai were expected to have 475,000 passengers, which is a hike of 61.7% over the same period in the year 2019, metropolis' government-owned The Paper reported.

For nearly two weeks leading up to the Spring Festival, the Shanghai railway network was expected to carry 7,170,900 passengers, surpassing the total during the same period in the year 2019, The Paper said.

The holiday which lasts for about eight days every year, begins on Saturday (Feb 10). However, many people like to start with their travel plans a bit earlier.

This time the celebrations also mark a year since China fully lifted coronavirus curbs that had disrupted the holiday for almost three years.

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Friday (Feb 9) kickstarted the preparations for the Lunar New Year holiday with people cramming onto trains, and boarding planes in order to get back to their hometown for celebrations.

China on Friday (Feb 9) kickstarted the preparations for the Lunar New Year holiday with people cramming onto trains, and boarding planes in order to get back to their hometown for celebrations. The country has been ramping up travel connectivity in order to ease the transportation facility after extreme weather conditions posed challenges for the ones heading home for the traditional reunion dinner gatherings. Nearly 1,873 passenger trains were added in a day across a vast railway network, a record according to state media outlet Global Times. Railway activity was back to the fore after freezing rain and snow hampered train services earlier in the week. Some of the passengers were stuck on trains for hours after power supplies were cut. Many provinces rushed to heighten emergency response efforts in order to remove snow that blocked traffic flow on several highways, leaving passengers stranded in cars. The authorities also made efforts to clear the snow off power lines, and train tracks and de-ice planes and runways at airports. Also read: US announces $10mn award for information on Hive ransomware gang 13.1 million passengers travel aboard China's national railway On Wednesday (Feb 7), nearly 13.1 million passengers travelled on China's national railway making it one of the busiest travel migration periods in the world. This marked the very first time that the Spring Festival travel rush, which is also known as the Chunyun period, exceeded 13 million in aday, as per Global Times. On Friday, railway stations across Shanghai were expected to have 475,000 passengers, which is a hike of 61.7% over the same period in the year 2019, metropolis' government-owned The Paper reported. For nearly two weeks leading up to the Spring Festival, the Shanghai railway network was expected to carry 7,170,900 passengers, surpassing the total during the same period in the year 2019, The Paper said. The holiday which lasts for about eight days every year, begins on Saturday (Feb 10). However, many people like to start with their travel plans a bit earlier. This time the celebrations also mark a year since China fully lifted coronavirus curbs that had disrupted the holiday for almost three years. (With inputs from agencies)

China ramps up travel connectivity, adds record number of trains ahead of Lunar New Year holiday

Former president Donald Trump's presidential race is becoming a bit of a cause for celebration and anguish. On one hand, he's sweeping every state that he setting foot on and on the other, his many legal challenges are threatening to derail his presidential bid. Now there might be a silver lining in his court battles as the US Supreme Court seems to be inclined to reject attempts to knock Trump off the 2024 ballot. Take a look.

US Supreme Court skeptical of keeping Trump off the ballot

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as per reports, is considering removing posts on social media that use the word "Zionist." This step is being considered to counter a surge of antisemitism, hate speech online, especially during the Israel-Gaza conflict, reports The Washington Post citing people familiar with private deliberations and internal guidance on the topic.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the social media giant has told some civil society groups that 'Zionist' at times is being used as a hurtful substitute for 'Jews' or 'Israelis'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/released-israeli-hostages-plead-with-netanyahu-to-push-for-ceasefire-deal-688786">Released Israeli hostages plead with Netanyahu to push for ceasefire deal</a>

The CEO and national director of the Anti-Defamation League, Jonathan Greenblatt, as per the report said "Whether the culprit is a hardened antizionist or a White nationalist, the term 'Zionist' is often used as an ugly synonym for 'Jew'". He also said that he had not been consulted on Meta's potential policy changes.

<h2>Antisemitism online</h2>

Since the start of the Israel and Hamas there has been a lot more hate speech online.

On platforms including Meta's Facebook and Instagram, Greenblatt said "antisemitic posts … directly invoke the words 'Zionist' or 'Zionism' in a manner that is not just pejorative but antisemitic, threatening and shameful."

In a statement Meta spokeswoman Erin McPike said that the company doesn't allow&nbsp;people to attack others on the basis of religion or nationality.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-possible-offensive-netanyahu-orders-plan-for-rafah-evacuation-688806">Ahead of possible offensive, Netanyahu orders plan for Rafah evacuation</a>

"While the term 'Zionist' often refers to a person’s ideology, which is not a protected characteristic, it can also be used to refer to Jewish or Israeli people."

"Given the increase in polarised public discourse due to events in the Middle East, we believe it’s important to assess our guidance for reviewing posts that use the term 'Zionist.'"

<h2>People against the move</h2>

However, not everyone is okay with the move. It has triggered an alarm among digital rights activists and pro-Palestinians who have alleged that the group would stifle legitimate political critiques of the Israeli government, its armed forces and Zionism, during the ongoing war.

Nadim Nashif, co-founder of the pro-Palestinian digital rights group 7amleh said that "Zionism is an ideology. It's not a race."

"As I told them, in my opinion, this is a slippery slope. From there, you can remove a lot of content that is criticizing Israel and Zionism that is part of legitimate political discussion."

(With inputs from agencies)

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as per reports, is considering removing posts on social media that use the word "Zionist." This step is being considered to counter a surge of antisemitism, hate speech online, especially during the Israel-Gaza conflict, reports The Washington Post citing people familiar with private deliberations and internal guidance on the topic.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as per reports, is considering removing posts on social media that use the word "Zionist." This step is being considered to counter a surge of antisemitism, hate speech online, especially during the Israel-Gaza conflict, reports The Washington Post citing people familiar with private deliberations and internal guidance on the topic. Reportedly, the social media giant has told some civil society groups that 'Zionist' at times is being used as a hurtful substitute for 'Jews' or 'Israelis'. Also read | Released Israeli hostages plead with Netanyahu to push for ceasefire deal The CEO and national director of the Anti-Defamation League, Jonathan Greenblatt, as per the report said "Whether the culprit is a hardened antizionist or a White nationalist, the term 'Zionist' is often used as an ugly synonym for 'Jew'". He also said that he had not been consulted on Meta's potential policy changes. Antisemitism online Since the start of the Israel and Hamas there has been a lot more hate speech online. On platforms including Meta's Facebook and Instagram, Greenblatt said "antisemitic posts … directly invoke the words 'Zionist' or 'Zionism' in a manner that is not just pejorative but antisemitic, threatening and shameful." In a statement Meta spokeswoman Erin McPike said that the company doesn't allow people to attack others on the basis of religion or nationality. Also read | Ahead of possible offensive, Netanyahu orders plan for Rafah evacuation "While the term 'Zionist' often refers to a person’s ideology, which is not a protected characteristic, it can also be used to refer to Jewish or Israeli people." "Given the increase in polarised public discourse due to events in the Middle East, we believe it’s important to assess our guidance for reviewing posts that use the term 'Zionist.'" People against the move However, not everyone is okay with the move. It has triggered an alarm among digital rights activists and pro-Palestinians who have alleged that the group would stifle legitimate political critiques of the Israeli government, its armed forces and Zionism, during the ongoing war. Nadim Nashif, co-founder of the pro-Palestinian digital rights group 7amleh said that "Zionism is an ideology. It's not a race." "As I told them, in my opinion, this is a slippery slope. From there, you can remove a lot of content that is criticizing Israel and Zionism that is part of legitimate political discussion." (With inputs from agencies)

Meta considers removing posts with word 'zionist'. Here's why

Palestinian militant group Hamas issued a warning to Israel threatening "tens of thousands" of casualties in case of a military action on Rafah.

The group released a statement saying that an army operation would have disastrous repercussions that "may lead to tens of thousands of martyrs and injured if Rafah... is invaded".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (February 9) said that he had ordered his forces to draw up a plan to evacuate people in Rafah - a southern town in the Gaza Strip - ahead of Israel's ground invasion. Israel has been carrying out airstrikes on the now overpopulated town and did so on Friday as well.

Netanyahu ordered its military and security officials late on Friday to "submit to the cabinet a combined plan for evacuating the population and destroying the battalions" of Hamas in the southern city.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-possible-offensive-netanyahu-orders-plan-for-rafah-evacuation-688806">Ahead of possible offensive, Netanyahu orders plan for Rafah evacuation</a>

This came just hours after US President Joe Biden warned Israel against expansion of its Gaza offensive to the southern city.

Biden on Thursday said that Israel's response and conduct in the war after Hamas' deadly October 7 attacks was 'over the top'. This is the harshest criticism yet by Israel's biggest international backer.

"The Israeli occupation's move threatens security and peace in the region and the world. This is a blatant violation of all red lines," said the office of Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas.

Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi warned "another bloodbath in Gaza cannot be allowed", in a post on X.

"An Israeli attack on 1.5 million Palestinians already facing inhumane conditions in Rafah will cause a massacre of innocent people," he wrote, urging the "whole world" to prevent it.

Spain and Germany also warned of a "humanitarian catastrophe" if the plan went ahead.

"We call for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, respect for international humanitarian law and the entry of aid," Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares posted on X.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Palestinian militant group Hamas issued a warning to Israel threatening "tens of thousands" of casualties in case of a military action on Rafah. The group released a statement saying that an army operation would have disastrous repercussions that "may lead to tens of thousands of martyrs and injured if Rafah.

Palestinian militant group Hamas issued a warning to Israel threatening "tens of thousands" of casualties in case of a military action on Rafah. The group released a statement saying that an army operation would have disastrous repercussions that "may lead to tens of thousands of martyrs and injured if Rafah... is invaded". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (February 9) said that he had ordered his forces to draw up a plan to evacuate people in Rafah - a southern town in the Gaza Strip - ahead of Israel's ground invasion. Israel has been carrying out airstrikes on the now overpopulated town and did so on Friday as well. Netanyahu ordered its military and security officials late on Friday to "submit to the cabinet a combined plan for evacuating the population and destroying the battalions" of Hamas in the southern city. Also read: Ahead of possible offensive, Netanyahu orders plan for Rafah evacuation This came just hours after US President Joe Biden warned Israel against expansion of its Gaza offensive to the southern city. Biden on Thursday said that Israel's response and conduct in the war after Hamas' deadly October 7 attacks was 'over the top'. This is the harshest criticism yet by Israel's biggest international backer. "The Israeli occupation's move threatens security and peace in the region and the world. This is a blatant violation of all red lines," said the office of Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas. Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi warned "another bloodbath in Gaza cannot be allowed", in a post on X. "An Israeli attack on 1.5 million Palestinians already facing inhumane conditions in Rafah will cause a massacre of innocent people," he wrote, urging the "whole world" to prevent it. Spain and Germany also warned of a "humanitarian catastrophe" if the plan went ahead. "We call for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, respect for international humanitarian law and the entry of aid," Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares posted on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas says military action in Rafah may lead to ‘tens of thousands’ of casualties

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels said on Saturday (February 10) that 17 of their fighters were killed in US strikes in Yemeni capital Sanaa.

"The bodies of a number of martyrs of the nation and the armed and security forces who were martyred as a result of the bombing of the American-British aggression were carried through Sanaa today in a solemn funeral procession," said official media of Houthi rebels said. It also listed their names.

On Thursday, the United States said on Thursday that it had carried out several strikes on Houthi missile launchers.

The Houthi rebels have been attacking global shipping on the vital trade route in the Red Sea. The rebels say that the attacks are aimed at shipping linked to Israel but there are fears that constant attacks may disrupt or even stop the global trade through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: 1 wounded in Israeli strikes, Palenstine Red Crescent shares video

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-1-wounded-in-israeli-strikes-palenstine-red-crescent-shares-video-688914/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The US and the UK have been carrying out strikes against Houthi targets in order to deter aggression. The Houthis in turn, have said that they will target commercial interests of US and the UK.

On Saturday, supporters of Houthi rebels gathered at Al-Shaab mosque in Sanaa for funerals of fighters killed in the strikes.

"We convey our message through these martyrs that it is absolutely impossible for us to abandon our position, which is based on principles and faith, and which forced us to take action," said Abu Motaz Ghalib, one of the mourners, as quoted by AFP.

On Wednesday, the official news agency of Houthi rebels said that US, UK strikes had hit targets in Hodeida region of Yemen.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israeli-army-accused-of-deliberately-attacking-ambulance-killing-six-year-old-girl-688966">Gaza war: Israeli Army accused of deliberately attacking ambulance, killing six-year-old girl</a>

A day before that, the rebels said that they had attacked US and British ships in Red Sea. The Houthis said they carried out two attacks.

The attacks on global shipping has spooked shipping companies and has raised insurance premiums. Many companies are avoiding Red Sea which is proving to be a costly affair.

(With inputs from agencies)

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels said on Saturday (February 10) that 17 of their fighters were killed in US strikes in Yemeni capital Sanaa. "The bodies of a number of martyrs of the nation and the armed and security forces who were martyred as a result of the bombing of the American-British aggression were carried through Sanaa today in a solemn funeral procession," said official media of Houthi rebels said.

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels said on Saturday (February 10) that 17 of their fighters were killed in US strikes in Yemeni capital Sanaa. "The bodies of a number of martyrs of the nation and the armed and security forces who were martyred as a result of the bombing of the American-British aggression were carried through Sanaa today in a solemn funeral procession," said official media of Houthi rebels said. It also listed their names. On Thursday, the United States said on Thursday that it had carried out several strikes on Houthi missile launchers. The Houthi rebels have been attacking global shipping on the vital trade route in the Red Sea. The rebels say that the attacks are aimed at shipping linked to Israel but there are fears that constant attacks may disrupt or even stop the global trade through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: 1 wounded in Israeli strikes, Palenstine Red Crescent shares video × The US and the UK have been carrying out strikes against Houthi targets in order to deter aggression. The Houthis in turn, have said that they will target commercial interests of US and the UK. On Saturday, supporters of Houthi rebels gathered at Al-Shaab mosque in Sanaa for funerals of fighters killed in the strikes. "We convey our message through these martyrs that it is absolutely impossible for us to abandon our position, which is based on principles and faith, and which forced us to take action," said Abu Motaz Ghalib, one of the mourners, as quoted by AFP. On Wednesday, the official news agency of Houthi rebels said that US, UK strikes had hit targets in Hodeida region of Yemen. Also Read | Gaza war: Israeli Army accused of deliberately attacking ambulance, killing six-year-old girl A day before that, the rebels said that they had attacked US and British ships in Red Sea. The Houthis said they carried out two attacks. The attacks on global shipping has spooked shipping companies and has raised insurance premiums. Many companies are avoiding Red Sea which is proving to be a costly affair. (With inputs from agencies)

US strikes killed 17 fighters, say Yemen’s Houthi rebels

Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Friday claimed that his party PML-N has emerged as the single largest party in the national elections. Nawaz Sharif has said that he is reaching out to PPP's Asif Ali Zardari, JUI-F’s Fazlur Rehman and MQM-P’s Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui for the formation of a coalition government.

Pakistan:PTI-backed Independents leading in polls, results of over 90% of seats announced | WION

A magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck Mindanao,&nbsp;Philippines, on Saturday, the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) said.

The quake was 10 km (6 miles) deep, GFZ said.

The Philippine seismology agency had a different reading, saying it was a magnitude 5.9 earthquake with a depth of 27 km (16.8 miles). The Philippine agency also said in a bulletin it was expecting no damage, but that there could be aftershocks.

Rescue workers searching for dozens of missing people in an earlier landslide in Maco town in the southern&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;province of Davao de Oro had to stop their operations because of the earthquake, authorities said.

The death toll from the landslide, which happened on Tuesday night outside a gold mining site, has reached 28, with 77 still missing and 32 injured, including a 3-year-old girl rescued on Friday after 60 hours under rubble.

Torrential rains have battered Davao de Oro in recent weeks, triggering floods and landslides.

A magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck Mindanao, Philippines, on Saturday, the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) said. The quake was 10 km (6 miles) deep, GFZ said.

A magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck Mindanao, Philippines, on Saturday, the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) said. The quake was 10 km (6 miles) deep, GFZ said. The Philippine seismology agency had a different reading, saying it was a magnitude 5.9 earthquake with a depth of 27 km (16.8 miles). The Philippine agency also said in a bulletin it was expecting no damage, but that there could be aftershocks. Rescue workers searching for dozens of missing people in an earlier landslide in Maco town in the southern Philippines province of Davao de Oro had to stop their operations because of the earthquake, authorities said. The death toll from the landslide, which happened on Tuesday night outside a gold mining site, has reached 28, with 77 still missing and 32 injured, including a 3-year-old girl rescued on Friday after 60 hours under rubble. Torrential rains have battered Davao de Oro in recent weeks, triggering floods and landslides.

Earthquake of magnitude 5.6 strikes Mindanao, Philippines

The controversy over a Nazi war veteran in Canadian Parliament is far from over, it has now been revealed that Hunka was invited by Prime Minister Trudeau to attend a rally in Toronto.

Canada: Nazi war veteran controversy continues, now recieves Zelensky's rally invitation

Ukraine's new army chief has said the nation needs new strategy to defeat Russia in the ongoing war.&nbsp;In the biggest change in Ukraine's military leadership since Russia's invasion started almost two years ago, the 58-year-old Oleksandr Syrsky took commander Valery Zaluzhny's position this week. Meanwhile, in Pakistan, parties of former PM Nawaz Sharif and&nbsp;Bilawal Bhutto have agreed to form a government. However, the besieged party of ex-PM Imran khan, PTI, has rejected Sharif's claim to power. In the ongoing Hamas-Israel war, the IDF has been accused of deliberately targeting an ambulance, resulting in the death of a six-year-old girl.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-needs-to-come-up-with-new-strategies-to-battle-says-new-army-chief-688970">U</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-needs-to-come-up-with-new-strategies-to-battle-says-new-army-chief-688970">kraine needs to come up with new strategies to battle, says new Army Chief</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/10/411280-untitled-design-1.jpg?imwidth=500" />

In his first remarks as the Ukraine's new commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrsky stated on Friday that the Ukrainian Army must alter its methods in order to defeat Russia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-imran-khans-party-rejects-sharifs-claim-to-power-as-pti-backed-candidates-win-big-688939">Pakistan Elections: Imran Khan's party rejects Sharif's claim to power as PTI-backed candidates win big</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/10/411255-untitled-design-2024-02-10t162326882.png?imwidth=500" />

Pakistan Elections 2024: Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Saturday (Feb 10) claimed that the party is assured that it has 'won' over 170 seats in 252-seat National Assembly of Pakistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israeli-army-accused-of-deliberately-attacking-ambulance-killing-six-year-old-girl-688966">Gaza war: Israeli Army accused of deliberately attacking ambulance, killing six-year-old girl</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/10/411278-yearender-2023-8.jpg?imwidth=500" />

The Israeli Army has been accused of deliberately targeting a rescue operation in besieged Gaza that resulted in the death of a six-year-old Palestinian girl. Her dead body was recovered on Saturday (Feb 10), surrounded by corpses of her family members and two ambulance workers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-nawaz-sharif-hints-at-improving-ties-with-india-as-poll-results-drag-on-688825">Pakistan elections: PML-N, PPP agree to form coalition govt at Centre, Punjab, says report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/10/411173-untitled-design.png?imwidth=500" />

Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have agreed to form the government at the Centre and in Punjab.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reform-perform-transform-with-97-pc-efficiency-pm-modi-on-his-2nd-term-in-power-688957">PM Modi dubs his second term in power as ‘gamechanger’ for the country, economy</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/10/411267-untitled-design-2024-02-10t171306072.png?imwidth=500" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his third address to the parliament in less than a week, dubbed his second term in power as 'gamechanger' for the world's fifth largest economy which was world's 11th biggest when he was first elected to power in 2014.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-election-massive-gatherings-in-indonesia-as-the-candidates-wrap-up-their-campaigns-688996">Indonesia election: Massive gatherings in Indonesia as the candidates wrap up their campaigns</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/10/411294-untitled-design-3.jpg?imwidth=500" />

The final election rallies for Indonesia's presidential candidates were held on Saturday before the vote on February 14th.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-threatens-catastrophe-if-israel-strikes-rafah-688986">Saudi Arabia threatens ‘catastrophe’ if Israel strikes Rafah; Gaza death toll crosses 28,000</a> 
<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/10/411288-untitled-design-2.jpg?imwidth=500" />

Saudi Arabia demanded on Saturday that the UN Security Council step in and stop Israel's planned army assault in Rafah, calling it a "humanitarian catastrophe."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-not-injured-but-shreyas-iyer-axed-from-indias-squad-for-remainder-of-england-series-reports-688955">IND vs ENG: Not injured but Shreyas Iyer ‘axed’ from India’s squad for remainder of England series - Reports</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/10/411266-shreyas-iyer.png?imwidth=500" />

After much anticipation and less than a week to go for the start of the third Test match in Rajkot, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for the remainder of the Test series against England on Saturday (Feb 10).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sofia-vergara-joe-manganiello-reach-agreement-to-finalise-divorce-688952">Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello reach agreement to finalise divorce</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/18/367850-untitled-design-2023-07-18t101617368.jpg?imwidth=500" />

Hollywood power couple Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello have reached an agreement to finalise their divorce.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/mithun-chakraborty-diagnosed-with-ischemic-cerebrovascular-stroke-689001">Mithun Chakraborty diagnosed with Ischemic Cerebrovascular Stroke</a> 
<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/12/28/79156-new.jpg?imwidth=500" />

Renowned Bollywood actor Mithun Chakraborty was admitted to a hospital in Kolkata on Saturday morning after reportedly&nbsp;complaining of chest pain. The latest update on his health, as shared by the hospital, reveals that he has been diagnosed with an Ischemic Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke) of the brain.

Ukraine's new army chief has said the nation needs new strategy to defeat Russia in the ongoing war. In the biggest change in Ukraine's military leadership since Russia's invasion started almost two years ago, the 58-year-old Oleksandr Syrsky took commander Valery Zaluzhny's position this week.

Ukraine's new army chief has said the nation needs new strategy to defeat Russia in the ongoing war. In the biggest change in Ukraine's military leadership since Russia's invasion started almost two years ago, the 58-year-old Oleksandr Syrsky took commander Valery Zaluzhny's position this week. Meanwhile, in Pakistan, parties of former PM Nawaz Sharif and Bilawal Bhutto have agreed to form a government. However, the besieged party of ex-PM Imran khan, PTI, has rejected Sharif's claim to power. In the ongoing Hamas-Israel war, the IDF has been accused of deliberately targeting an ambulance, resulting in the death of a six-year-old girl. Click on the headlines to read more. Ukraine needs to come up with new strategies to battle, says new Army Chief In his first remarks as the Ukraine's new commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrsky stated on Friday that the Ukrainian Army must alter its methods in order to defeat Russia. Pakistan Elections: Imran Khan's party rejects Sharif's claim to power as PTI-backed candidates win big Pakistan Elections 2024: Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Saturday (Feb 10) claimed that the party is assured that it has 'won' over 170 seats in 252-seat National Assembly of Pakistan. Gaza war: Israeli Army accused of deliberately attacking ambulance, killing six-year-old girl The Israeli Army has been accused of deliberately targeting a rescue operation in besieged Gaza that resulted in the death of a six-year-old Palestinian girl. Her dead body was recovered on Saturday (Feb 10), surrounded by corpses of her family members and two ambulance workers. Pakistan elections: PML-N, PPP agree to form coalition govt at Centre, Punjab, says report Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have agreed to form the government at the Centre and in Punjab. PM Modi dubs his second term in power as ‘gamechanger’ for the country, economy Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his third address to the parliament in less than a week, dubbed his second term in power as 'gamechanger' for the world's fifth largest economy which was world's 11th biggest when he was first elected to power in 2014. Indonesia election: Massive gatherings in Indonesia as the candidates wrap up their campaigns The final election rallies for Indonesia's presidential candidates were held on Saturday before the vote on February 14th. Saudi Arabia threatens ‘catastrophe’ if Israel strikes Rafah; Gaza death toll crosses 28,000 Saudi Arabia demanded on Saturday that the UN Security Council step in and stop Israel's planned army assault in Rafah, calling it a "humanitarian catastrophe." IND vs ENG: Not injured but Shreyas Iyer ‘axed’ from India’s squad for remainder of England series - Reports After much anticipation and less than a week to go for the start of the third Test match in Rajkot, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for the remainder of the Test series against England on Saturday (Feb 10). Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello reach agreement to finalise divorce Hollywood power couple Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello have reached an agreement to finalise their divorce. Mithun Chakraborty diagnosed with Ischemic Cerebrovascular Stroke Renowned Bollywood actor Mithun Chakraborty was admitted to a hospital in Kolkata on Saturday morning after reportedly complaining of chest pain. The latest update on his health, as shared by the hospital, reveals that he has been diagnosed with an Ischemic Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke) of the brain.

Top 10 world news: PTI rejects Sharif's claim to power in Pak; Ukraine to change battle strategy; and more

Nearly 3,000 migrants are sleeping in tents in an island park near New York where people camping in the cold are among the latest temporary inhabitants of Randall's Island. It is New York's largest shelter for Asylum Seekers that now struggles to make space for incoming immigrants.

New York migrant crisis: Cops assaulted, tourist shot in Times Square

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&nbsp;on Friday (February 9) said that he had ordered his forces to draw up a plan to evacuate people in Rafah - a southern town in the Gaza Strip - ahead of Israel's ground invasion.&nbsp;Israel has been carrying out airstrikes on the now overpopulated town and did so on Friday as well

The&nbsp;attack on Rafah came just hours after Biden administration warned Israel against expansion of its Gaza offensive to the southern city. More than half of Gaza Strip's 2.3 million population has moved&nbsp; into&nbsp;Rafah.&nbsp;People have sought refuge in Rafah, escaping the war that so far rages in northern regions of the city.

US President Joe Biden on Thursday said that Israel's response and conduct in the war after Hamas' deadly October 7 attacks was 'over the top'. This is the harshest criticism yet by Israel's biggest international backer.

Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu orders military to submit dual plan for Rafah

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israeli-pm-netanyahu-orders-military-to-submit-dual-plan-for-rafah-688795/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza has said that Palestinian death toll in the war is approaching the 28,000 mark. It says that about two-thirds of the tally includes women and children.

Reacting to&nbsp;Israel's offensive in Gaza,&nbsp;Vedant Patel, a US State Department spokesperson&nbsp;on Thursday said, “We have yet to see any evidence of serious planning for such an operation."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-air-defenses-engage-hostile-targets-near-damascus-source-of-attack-unclear-688686">Syrian air defenses 'engage hostile targets' near Damascus, source of attack unclear</a>

“With no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster,"&nbsp;Patel further said.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby has said that a ground operation in Rafah is &nbsp;“not something we would support.”

Netanyahu has spoken of “total victory” in the war in spite of Israel's increasing friction with the US.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (February 9) said that he had ordered his forces to draw up a plan to evacuate people in Rafah - a southern town in the Gaza Strip - ahead of Israel's ground invasion.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (February 9) said that he had ordered his forces to draw up a plan to evacuate people in Rafah - a southern town in the Gaza Strip - ahead of Israel's ground invasion. Israel has been carrying out airstrikes on the now overpopulated town and did so on Friday as well The attack on Rafah came just hours after Biden administration warned Israel against expansion of its Gaza offensive to the southern city. More than half of Gaza Strip's 2.3 million population has moved into Rafah. People have sought refuge in Rafah, escaping the war that so far rages in northern regions of the city. US President Joe Biden on Thursday said that Israel's response and conduct in the war after Hamas' deadly October 7 attacks was 'over the top'. This is the harshest criticism yet by Israel's biggest international backer. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu orders military to submit dual plan for Rafah × Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza has said that Palestinian death toll in the war is approaching the 28,000 mark. It says that about two-thirds of the tally includes women and children. Reacting to Israel's offensive in Gaza, Vedant Patel, a US State Department spokesperson on Thursday said, “We have yet to see any evidence of serious planning for such an operation." Also Read | Syrian air defenses 'engage hostile targets' near Damascus, source of attack unclear “With no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster," Patel further said. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby has said that a ground operation in Rafah is “not something we would support.” Netanyahu has spoken of “total victory” in the war in spite of Israel's increasing friction with the US. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of possible offensive, Netanyahu orders plan for Rafah evacuation

world

World, News on World, stories on World, articles on World, World stories at Wion, World news, World latest news