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The world just experienced its warmest January on record, marking the first 12-month period in which temperatures averaged more than 1.5C (2.7F) above pre-industrial times, the European Union's climate change monitoring service said on Thursday.

Already 2023 was the planet's hottest year in global records going back to 1850, as human-caused climate change and El Nino, the weather pattern that warms the surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, pushed temperatures higher.

"It is a significant milestone to see the global mean temperature for a 12-month period exceed 1.5C above pre-industrial temperatures for the first time," Matt Patterson, an atmospheric physicist at the University of Oxford, said.

The previous warmest January was in 2020, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) records which go back to 1950.

Countries agreed at United Nations climate talks in Paris in 2015 to keep global warming well below 2C (3.6F) and aim to limit it to 1.5C, a level regarded as crucial to preventing the most severe consequences.

The first 12-month period of exceeding 1.5C does not yet mean the Paris goal has been missed, as the U.N. agreement refers to an average global temperature over decades.

Some scientists, however, have said the 1.5C aim can no longer realistically be met, and have urged governments to act faster to cut CO2 emissions to limit the amount of overshoot of the target.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-worlds-worst-air-pollution-disasters-of-all-time-602909">In Pics | World's worst air pollution disasters of all time</a>

"Rapid reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are the only way to stop global temperatures increasing," C3S deputy director Samantha Burgess said.

At the same time, economic weakness and political pressures are challenging government will to implement policies to curb greenhouse gases as politicians strive for re-election in a bumper year for democratic elections.

<h2>COULD 2024 BE EVEN WARMER?</h2>

Every month since June 2023 has been the world's hottest on record, compared with the corresponding month in previous years.

U.S. scientists have said 2024 has a one-in-three chance of being even hotter than last year, and a 99% chance of ranking in the top five warmest years.

El Nino began to weaken last month, and scientists have indicated it could shift to the cooler La Nina counterpart later this year. Still, average global sea surface temperatures last month were the highest for any January on record.

While it is winter in the northern hemisphere, in parts of South America, experiencing the southern hemisphere summer, temperatures are again blistering.

Argentina endured a heatwave between Jan. 21 and 31, while the Chilean capital of Santiago registered its third hottest temperature on record on Jan. 31, climbing above 37C.

Such heat in central Chile caused deadly wildfires that killed at least 131 people in early February.

The world just experienced its warmest January on record, marking the first 12-month period in which temperatures averaged more than 1.5C (2.7F) above pre-industrial times, the European Union's climate change monitoring service said on Thursday.

The world just experienced its warmest January on record, marking the first 12-month period in which temperatures averaged more than 1.5C (2.7F) above pre-industrial times, the European Union's climate change monitoring service said on Thursday. Already 2023 was the planet's hottest year in global records going back to 1850, as human-caused climate change and El Nino, the weather pattern that warms the surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, pushed temperatures higher. "It is a significant milestone to see the global mean temperature for a 12-month period exceed 1.5C above pre-industrial temperatures for the first time," Matt Patterson, an atmospheric physicist at the University of Oxford, said. The previous warmest January was in 2020, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) records which go back to 1950. Countries agreed at United Nations climate talks in Paris in 2015 to keep global warming well below 2C (3.6F) and aim to limit it to 1.5C, a level regarded as crucial to preventing the most severe consequences. The first 12-month period of exceeding 1.5C does not yet mean the Paris goal has been missed, as the U.N. agreement refers to an average global temperature over decades. Some scientists, however, have said the 1.5C aim can no longer realistically be met, and have urged governments to act faster to cut CO2 emissions to limit the amount of overshoot of the target. Also Read: In Pics | World's worst air pollution disasters of all time "Rapid reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are the only way to stop global temperatures increasing," C3S deputy director Samantha Burgess said. At the same time, economic weakness and political pressures are challenging government will to implement policies to curb greenhouse gases as politicians strive for re-election in a bumper year for democratic elections. COULD 2024 BE EVEN WARMER? Every month since June 2023 has been the world's hottest on record, compared with the corresponding month in previous years. U.S. scientists have said 2024 has a one-in-three chance of being even hotter than last year, and a 99% chance of ranking in the top five warmest years. El Nino began to weaken last month, and scientists have indicated it could shift to the cooler La Nina counterpart later this year. Still, average global sea surface temperatures last month were the highest for any January on record. While it is winter in the northern hemisphere, in parts of South America, experiencing the southern hemisphere summer, temperatures are again blistering. Argentina endured a heatwave between Jan. 21 and 31, while the Chilean capital of Santiago registered its third hottest temperature on record on Jan. 31, climbing above 37C. Such heat in central Chile caused deadly wildfires that killed at least 131 people in early February.

January was world's warmest on record, EU scientists

In his first public response to the recent release of the hidden camera footage where South Korea's first lady, Kim Keon Hee, was seen accepting a luxury designer handbag as a gift, President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday (Feb 8) called it a "political manoeuvre".

However, he assured that clearer lines would be drawn in order to ensure such incidents do not happen in future.

During his interview with broadcaster KBS, Yoon stated&nbsp;that the footage, which was filmed in September 2022, and released in November 2023, just before elections in the country, should be considered as "a political manoeuvre".

"However, it's not important whether to call it a political manoeuvre or not," he said. "What's important is to set clearer boundaries with others to prevent something like this from happening in the future."

The pastor, who offered the Dior handbag worth 3 million won ($2,250) and secretly captured the act, claimed to have ties with Kim's father who passed away when she was a child, claimed Yoon.

He further said that the fact&nbsp;he was living in their private home ahead of shifting to a newly constructed presidential residence may also have added to the confusion about how the gifts should have been handled.

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<h2>'Dior bag scandal'</h2>

The pastor, Reverend Abraham Choi, who presented the gift to the first lady, earlier told the news agency Reuters that he wanted to raise concerns about Yoon's hawkish North Korea policies and that offering expensive gifts seemed to be the way to secure a meeting with Kim Keon Hee.

Choi used a wristwatch to record himself presenting the designer handbag to Hee, who is heard saying "please don't buy an expensive item like this" in the footage.

However, she is not seen returning the handbag.&nbsp;

Accepting the gift is a breach of South Korean law where public officials and their spouses cannot accept gifts worth more than $750.&nbsp;

News agency AFP, citing a report from Yonhap News Agency, said that the gift was being "stored according to the relevant regulations".

After the incident came to light, members of Yoon's conservative People Power Party (PPP) urged the president and his wife to issue an apology and admit that receiving the gift was inappropriate.

(With inputs from agencies)

In his first public response to the recent release of the hidden camera footage where South Korea's first lady, Kim Keon Hee, was seen accepting a luxury designer handbag as a gift, President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday (Feb 8) called it a "political manoeuvre".

In his first public response to the recent release of the hidden camera footage where South Korea's first lady, Kim Keon Hee, was seen accepting a luxury designer handbag as a gift, President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday (Feb 8) called it a "political manoeuvre". However, he assured that clearer lines would be drawn in order to ensure such incidents do not happen in future. During his interview with broadcaster KBS, Yoon stated that the footage, which was filmed in September 2022, and released in November 2023, just before elections in the country, should be considered as "a political manoeuvre". "However, it's not important whether to call it a political manoeuvre or not," he said. "What's important is to set clearer boundaries with others to prevent something like this from happening in the future." The pastor, who offered the Dior handbag worth 3 million won ($2,250) and secretly captured the act, claimed to have ties with Kim's father who passed away when she was a child, claimed Yoon. He further said that the fact he was living in their private home ahead of shifting to a newly constructed presidential residence may also have added to the confusion about how the gifts should have been handled. Also read: Joe Biden gets ridiculed online after struggling to recall Hamas' name during speech 'Dior bag scandal' The pastor, Reverend Abraham Choi, who presented the gift to the first lady, earlier told the news agency Reuters that he wanted to raise concerns about Yoon's hawkish North Korea policies and that offering expensive gifts seemed to be the way to secure a meeting with Kim Keon Hee. Choi used a wristwatch to record himself presenting the designer handbag to Hee, who is heard saying "please don't buy an expensive item like this" in the footage. However, she is not seen returning the handbag. Accepting the gift is a breach of South Korean law where public officials and their spouses cannot accept gifts worth more than $750. News agency AFP, citing a report from Yonhap News Agency, said that the gift was being "stored according to the relevant regulations". After the incident came to light, members of Yoon's conservative People Power Party (PPP) urged the president and his wife to issue an apology and admit that receiving the gift was inappropriate. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's Yoon calls wife's 'Dior bag scandal' a political manoeuvre

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- Republican politician and US Presidential Contender Nikki Haley's statement about India perceiving Washington as weak and thus aligning with Russia is trending.

Nikki Haley: India aligned with Russia as it perceives Washington as 'weak'

Days after the body of an Indian-American student Sameer Kamath found in Indiana, American officials said that the 23-year-old had shot himself in the head with a gun. The revelation has come after a forensic autopsy was performed on the 6th of February.

PhD student Sameer Kamath killed himself, say US officials

The senate of France was rocked by a sex scandal after a female medic claimed that she had a sex tape which she had filmed with a senator. The medic claimed that the video was filmed inside the senator's office to gain favours and that it had made her “untouchable”.&nbsp;

According to a report published in Le Canard Enchain, a doctor, who was employed at the senate where the average age is nearly 60, had filed a complaint to the human resources regarding his medical assistant and asked for her dismissal last October.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-confuses-macron-with-former-french-prez-francois-mitterrand-who-died-nearly-30-years-ago-687569">Biden confuses Macron with former French prez Francois Mitterrand, who died nearly 30 years ago</a>

However, the doctor was informed by the assistant that she was “untouchable” and “protected by a “very influential senator”.

<h2>Female medic allegedly produced footage&nbsp;</h2>

The female medic then allegedly claimed that she produced “unequivocal” footage which was shot by her while having sex with the unnamed senator in his office “with his trousers around his ankles”, and warned the doctor that she could “get anyone I like fired”.

As reported by Le Canard, Senate President Gerard Larcher was informed about the tape by the senate’s secretary general after a complaint was made by the doctor but nothing was done for three months.

Watch:&nbsp;France Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne's West Asia tour, meets Egyptian counterpart

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-foreign-minister-stephane-sejournes-west-asia-tour-meets-egyptian-counterpart-687197/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After the Senate finally acted, the assistant was not sanctioned, and the upper chamber launched “dismissal proceedings without notice or compensation” against the doctor, who they accused of “providing paid outside services”.&nbsp;

However, the disciplinary office of the Senate did not say anything about his status as a witness in the sex tape affair.

This sex tape scandal surfaced three months after 66-year-old senator Joel Guerriau faced an accusation of spiking a female MP Sandine Josso’s champagne with ecstasy so as to sexually assault her at his home.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The senate of France was rocked by a sex scandal after a female medic claimed that she had a sex tape which she had filmed with a senator. The medic claimed that the video was filmed inside the senator's office to gain favours and that it had made her “untouchable”.

The senate of France was rocked by a sex scandal after a female medic claimed that she had a sex tape which she had filmed with a senator. The medic claimed that the video was filmed inside the senator's office to gain favours and that it had made her “untouchable”. According to a report published in Le Canard Enchain, a doctor, who was employed at the senate where the average age is nearly 60, had filed a complaint to the human resources regarding his medical assistant and asked for her dismissal last October. Also Read: Biden confuses Macron with former French prez Francois Mitterrand, who died nearly 30 years ago However, the doctor was informed by the assistant that she was “untouchable” and “protected by a “very influential senator”. Female medic allegedly produced footage The female medic then allegedly claimed that she produced “unequivocal” footage which was shot by her while having sex with the unnamed senator in his office “with his trousers around his ankles”, and warned the doctor that she could “get anyone I like fired”. As reported by Le Canard, Senate President Gerard Larcher was informed about the tape by the senate’s secretary general after a complaint was made by the doctor but nothing was done for three months. Watch: France Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne's West Asia tour, meets Egyptian counterpart After the Senate finally acted, the assistant was not sanctioned, and the upper chamber launched “dismissal proceedings without notice or compensation” against the doctor, who they accused of “providing paid outside services”. However, the disciplinary office of the Senate did not say anything about his status as a witness in the sex tape affair. This sex tape scandal surfaced three months after 66-year-old senator Joel Guerriau faced an accusation of spiking a female MP Sandine Josso’s champagne with ecstasy so as to sexually assault her at his home. (With inputs from agencies)

Sex tape scandal grips France’s senate after female medic claims to possess incriminating video of senator

A refugee from Afghanistan who lied to gain asylum in Britain and claimed he worked for MI6 and met the King has rejected allegations he is a Russian spy.

Alleged Russian spy worked for UK's spy agencies like MI6

The first-ever European Union (EU)-India Track 1.5 dialogue on countering the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) by extremists and non-state actors will take place in New Delhi tomorrow.

New Delhi hosts India-EU roundtable on countering terrorist exploitation of drones

A princess in Germany has become the first Aristocrat to take off her clothes for the Playboy magazine. Xenia Florence Gabriela Sophie Iris who is the princess of Saxony has appeared topless in the local edition of the adult entertainment magazine.

German aristocrat appears on playboy, bares it all for photoshoot

A senior official with Ukraine’s intelligence agency has been fired after revelations that investigative journalists had been wiretapped, a source at the agency told media on Monday.

Ukraine Security Service under fire after surveilling journalists and wiretapping media

Rishi Sunak is under fire Labour party leader Keir Starmer slammed Sunak in the Parliamentary question hour that was after Sunak joked that the opposition leader could not define what a woman was.

UK PM Rishi Sunak faces calls to apologise to Starmer over trans jibe

Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Hamas's proposals for a ceasefire. Netanyahu ordered troops to prepare for moving onto the city of Rafah in Gaza's far south where more than 1 million Palestinians have sought Refuge. However, the US Secretary of State Blinken says he still sees space for an agreement to be reached.

Israel-Hamas war | Israel PM Netanyahu dismisses Hamas' ceasefire demand

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: At the age of 102, the former pilot of the British Royal Air Force took to the skies in the iconic "Spitfire" aircraft from the Second World War for the first time. According to current knowledge, Jack Hemmings, the British forces' squadron leader during World War II, is the oldest pilot to have flown that particular model of aircraft.

102-year-old World War II Pilot flies ‘Spitfire’ | Pakistan suspends mobile services

Prince William has been in the news ever since his father, King Charles III was diagnosed with cancer as a lot is being written about the uncertainty that looms over the royal family. Many have written off King Charles's reign and said that he might focus on health and make way for the next in line, William while others have been speculating that there’s still time for that.&nbsp;

<h2>Prince William speaks for the first time since King Charles' cancer diagnosis</h2>

Amid all this, Prince William expressed his gratitude for "the kind messages of support for Catherine and for my father, especially in recent days".&nbsp;

This is the first time that William has spoken in public since the cancer diagnosis of King Charles came to light.&nbsp;

At a fundraiser for London’s Air Ambulance, William said, "It means a great deal to us all.” Hollywood star Tom Cruise was also a guest at the fundraiser.&nbsp;

Prince William added, “It's fair to say the past few weeks have had a rather 'medical' focus. So I thought I'd come to an air ambulance function to get away from it all!”

As a former air ambulance pilot himself, Prince William spoke of the need for new helicopters to support this emergency service and the "truly life-saving difference it can make". The charity is currently appealing to raise £15 million.&nbsp;

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drama-ensues-as-harry-snubs-brother-prince-william-while-visiting-king-charles-on-cancer-news-688146">Drama ensues as Harry snubs brother Prince William while visiting King Charles on cancer news</a></h2>

Earlier in the day, the Prince of Wales&nbsp;carried out an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle.

These are the first few public engagements we have seen William be a part of since he took a break following his wife Catherine’s surgery.&nbsp;

Prince William has been in the news ever since his father, King Charles III was diagnosed with cancer as a lot is being written about the uncertainty that looms over the royal family.

Prince William has been in the news ever since his father, King Charles III was diagnosed with cancer as a lot is being written about the uncertainty that looms over the royal family. Many have written off King Charles's reign and said that he might focus on health and make way for the next in line, William while others have been speculating that there’s still time for that. Prince William speaks for the first time since King Charles' cancer diagnosis Amid all this, Prince William expressed his gratitude for "the kind messages of support for Catherine and for my father, especially in recent days". This is the first time that William has spoken in public since the cancer diagnosis of King Charles came to light. At a fundraiser for London’s Air Ambulance, William said, "It means a great deal to us all.” Hollywood star Tom Cruise was also a guest at the fundraiser. Prince William added, “It's fair to say the past few weeks have had a rather 'medical' focus. So I thought I'd come to an air ambulance function to get away from it all!” As a former air ambulance pilot himself, Prince William spoke of the need for new helicopters to support this emergency service and the "truly life-saving difference it can make". The charity is currently appealing to raise £15 million. Drama ensues as Harry snubs brother Prince William while visiting King Charles on cancer news Earlier in the day, the Prince of Wales carried out an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle. These are the first few public engagements we have seen William be a part of since he took a break following his wife Catherine’s surgery.

Prince William thanks 'kind messages' in first remarks since hospitalisation of King Charles, Kate

Errol HV, a convict wanted for a diamond heist at Schiphol airport in 2005, has been arrested&nbsp;in Ibiza,&nbsp;several reports suggest. HV, aged 59, was sentenced to 9.5 years in prison in 2021 for his involvement in the theft, considered the largest diamond heist in Dutch history.

HV&nbsp;is believed to be the mastermind behind the theft, which amounted to 70 million euros worth of diamonds. Despite the significant value of the stolen diamonds, virtually none of them have been recovered.

Spanish police intercepted HV&nbsp;on the island of Ibiza on Tuesday afternoon, apprehending him after he had been living there for some time. While sources close to HV&nbsp;confirmed the arrest, Dutch authorities did not corroborate the information.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/van-gogh-painting-worth-68mn-returned-in-ikea-bag-on-display-for-first-time-after-being-stolen-687976">Also read |&nbsp;Van Gogh painting worth $6.8mn returned after being stolen put on display for the first time</a>

<h2>Legal proceedings</h2>

The legal saga surrounding the diamond heist began in 2019 with the initial ruling. Seven suspects were arrested during the extensive investigation, leading to convictions for four individuals.

HV&nbsp;received a seven-year prison sentence&nbsp;which was later increased to 9.5 years on appeal.

The suspects appealed the verdict, and in 2020, they were released from custody pending the outcome of the appeal process.

In 2021, the Court of Appeal upheld the convictions, sentencing them to prison terms of up to 9 years and six months. However, HV&nbsp;and another main suspect, Marlon D, lodged appeals against the ruling.

After the Supreme Court confirmed the convictions in October 2023, arrest warrants were issued for HV&nbsp;and Marlon D. Marlon D&nbsp;was apprehended in Amsterdam in December, while HV&nbsp;was arrested in Ibiza after a prolonged search by FastNL, a Dutch police team focused on capturing fugitives. It remains uncertain when HV&nbsp;will be extradited to the Netherlands to serve the remainder of his sentence, which is approximately 6.5 years.

(With inputs from agencies)

Errol HV, a convict wanted for a diamond heist at Schiphol airport in 2005, has been arrested in Ibiza, several reports suggest. HV, aged 59, was sentenced to 9.

Errol HV, a convict wanted for a diamond heist at Schiphol airport in 2005, has been arrested in Ibiza, several reports suggest. HV, aged 59, was sentenced to 9.5 years in prison in 2021 for his involvement in the theft, considered the largest diamond heist in Dutch history. HV is believed to be the mastermind behind the theft, which amounted to 70 million euros worth of diamonds. Despite the significant value of the stolen diamonds, virtually none of them have been recovered. Spanish police intercepted HV on the island of Ibiza on Tuesday afternoon, apprehending him after he had been living there for some time. While sources close to HV confirmed the arrest, Dutch authorities did not corroborate the information. Also read | Van Gogh painting worth $6.8mn returned after being stolen put on display for the first time Legal proceedings The legal saga surrounding the diamond heist began in 2019 with the initial ruling. Seven suspects were arrested during the extensive investigation, leading to convictions for four individuals. HV received a seven-year prison sentence which was later increased to 9.5 years on appeal. The suspects appealed the verdict, and in 2020, they were released from custody pending the outcome of the appeal process. In 2021, the Court of Appeal upheld the convictions, sentencing them to prison terms of up to 9 years and six months. However, HV and another main suspect, Marlon D, lodged appeals against the ruling. After the Supreme Court confirmed the convictions in October 2023, arrest warrants were issued for HV and Marlon D. Marlon D was apprehended in Amsterdam in December, while HV was arrested in Ibiza after a prolonged search by FastNL, a Dutch police team focused on capturing fugitives. It remains uncertain when HV will be extradited to the Netherlands to serve the remainder of his sentence, which is approximately 6.5 years. (With inputs from agencies)

Diamond heist mastermind arrested in Ibiza 19 years after $75mn Schiphol robbery

A Chinese dual-use survey ship will enter Male seaport today (Thursday) for rotation of personnel and replenishment. This comes at a time when ties are strained between India and Maldives.

Chinese spy ship to enter Male seaport, Indian Navy keeps a watch

Royal family drama continues as Prince Harry visited the UK to meet his father King Charles III amid his cancer diagnosis. With all eyes on him, the younger royal decided to skip meeting his elder brother Prince William, which is being seen as a snub by royal family watchers.&nbsp;

Cracks in the family showed no signs of healing as the brothers weren’t spotted together at any time during Harry's short trip.

Harry came for such a brief visit that he only met with King Charles III and left the country without meeting the elder sibling, according to reports.&nbsp;

In fact,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-prince-harry-heads-home-to-us-after-visiting-ailing-king-charles-687977">Prince Harry left the UK within a span of 24 hours</a>. He was spotted entering the UK on Tuesday and flew out on Wednesday for United States, where he lives with his wife Meghan Markle and two kids.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Prince William continued his royal duties as the Prince of Wales, hosting an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle and attending a gala for a charity he supports.

Also, a supposed secret meeting took place between Prince Harry and King Charles.

The contents of that meeting remain under wraps, as it took place at the Clarence House, the king’s official residence in London, and lasted for about half an hour to 45 minutes.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have distanced themselves from the royal family after they stepped away from their royal roles and moved to California in 2020.

Later, Harry and Meghan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meghans-miscarriage-williams-shouting-queens-silence-harry-and-meghans-attack-on-royal-family-543466">gave an explosive interview to Oprah Winfrey </a>where they spoke about the harsh treatment of Meghan at the hands of a few royal family members.

Following a public debacle, the brothers did not even sit together at their father’s coronation ceremony in May last year.&nbsp;

Royal family drama continues as Prince Harry visited the UK to meet his father King Charles III amid his cancer diagnosis. With all eyes on him, the younger royal decided to skip meeting his elder brother Prince William, which is being seen as a snub by royal family watchers.

Royal family drama continues as Prince Harry visited the UK to meet his father King Charles III amid his cancer diagnosis. With all eyes on him, the younger royal decided to skip meeting his elder brother Prince William, which is being seen as a snub by royal family watchers. Cracks in the family showed no signs of healing as the brothers weren’t spotted together at any time during Harry's short trip. Harry came for such a brief visit that he only met with King Charles III and left the country without meeting the elder sibling, according to reports. In fact, Prince Harry left the UK within a span of 24 hours. He was spotted entering the UK on Tuesday and flew out on Wednesday for United States, where he lives with his wife Meghan Markle and two kids. Meanwhile, Prince William continued his royal duties as the Prince of Wales, hosting an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle and attending a gala for a charity he supports. Also, a supposed secret meeting took place between Prince Harry and King Charles. The contents of that meeting remain under wraps, as it took place at the Clarence House, the king’s official residence in London, and lasted for about half an hour to 45 minutes. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have distanced themselves from the royal family after they stepped away from their royal roles and moved to California in 2020. Later, Harry and Meghan gave an explosive interview to Oprah Winfrey where they spoke about the harsh treatment of Meghan at the hands of a few royal family members. Following a public debacle, the brothers did not even sit together at their father’s coronation ceremony in May last year.

Drama ensues as Harry 'snubs' brother Prince William while visiting King Charles

Repeated US&nbsp;strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq are pushing the government to end the mission of the US-led coalition in the country, the prime minister's military spokesman Yahya Rasool said on Thursday.

The US&nbsp;military said a strike on Wednesday killed a commander from Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon has blamed for attacking its troops.

Rasool said in a statement that the US-led coalition "has become a factor for instability and threatens to entangle Iraq in the cycle of conflict."

The US-led international military coalition in Iraq was set up to fight Islamic State. The United States has 2,500 troops in Iraq, advising and assisting local forces to prevent a resurgence of the group.

Since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began in October, Iraq and Syria have witnessed almost daily tit-for-tat attacks between hardline Iran-backed armed groups and US&nbsp;forces stationed in the region.

Repeated US strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq are pushing the government to end the mission of the US-led coalition in the country, the prime minister's military spokesman Yahya Rasool said on Thursday.

Repeated US strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq are pushing the government to end the mission of the US-led coalition in the country, the prime minister's military spokesman Yahya Rasool said on Thursday. The US military said a strike on Wednesday killed a commander from Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon has blamed for attacking its troops. Rasool said in a statement that the US-led coalition "has become a factor for instability and threatens to entangle Iraq in the cycle of conflict." The US-led international military coalition in Iraq was set up to fight Islamic State. The United States has 2,500 troops in Iraq, advising and assisting local forces to prevent a resurgence of the group. Since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began in October, Iraq and Syria have witnessed almost daily tit-for-tat attacks between hardline Iran-backed armed groups and US forces stationed in the region.

American strikes pushing government to end US-led coalition's mission: Iraq

In Pakistan, in the&nbsp;lead-up to crucial general elections, deadly blasts have been reported from different parts of the nation. In the Middle East, militant group&nbsp;Hamas has reportedly proposed a ceasefire in Gaza amid ongoing conflict with Israel. Meanwhile, the EU has initiated legal action against Hungary's controversial sovereignty law. In India, the Uttarakhand Assembly has passed a landmark Uniform Civil Code Bill. Meanwhile, in the world of sports, reports suggest that Virat Kohli may&nbsp;miss the upcoming third and fourth Tests against England.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-elections-2024-live-dual-blasts-at-candidates-offices-in-balochistan-kill-25-687802">Pakistan Elections 2024 LIVE | Another blast in Karachi killed at least one and injures three: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/07/410657-pakistan-elections-2024.png?imwidth=500" />

As Pakistan prepares for closely watched elections for national and provincial assemblies,&nbsp;on Wednesday (Feb 7th) multiple blasts in the nation have claimed at least 28 lives.&nbsp;Follow WION for all the LIVE updates.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-hamas-proposes-a-four-month-gaza-truce-plan-says-report-687870">Israel war: Hamas proposes a four-month Gaza truce plan, says report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/24/401248-succession-2023-12-24t002819035.jpg?imwidth=500" />

Palestinian militant group Hamas has put forth a four-month (135 days) ceasefire plan aimed at ending the ongoing war between its fighters and Israel, reported Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-launches-legal-action-against-hungarys-controversial-sovereignty-law-687896">EU launches legal action against Hungary’s controversial ‘sovereignty law’</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/07/410623-wion-images-2024-02-07t183213241.png?imwidth=500" />

The European Commission, on Wednesday (Feb 7) launched legal action against Hungary’s controversial “sovereignty law” which the ruling Fidesz party of Prime Minister Viktor Orban said was necessary to protect Budapest from foreign political interference.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-says-no-ties-with-israel-until-palestinian-state-is-recognised-687938">Saudi Arabia says no ties with Israel until Palestinian state is 'recognised'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/07/410615-antony-blinken-mbs.png?imwidth=500" />

Saudi Arabia told the United States that it can't have any relations with Israel in the absence of recognition of the Palestinian state, a report published by the news agency Reuters said on Wednesday (Feb 7).&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/carlson-is-wrong-kremlin-denies-tuckers-claims-of-him-alone-trying-to-interview-putin-amid-ukraine-war-687959">‘Carlson is wrong’: Kremlin denies Tucker’s claims of him alone trying to interview Putin amid Ukraine war</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/07/410660-wion-images-2024-02-07t211122325.png?imwidth=500" />

The Kremlin, on Tuesday (Feb 6) confirmed that Tucker Carlson has been granted permission to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Moscow rejected the former Fox News anchor’s claims that he was the only one among Western media figures trying to interview the Russian president amid the ongoing war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-uttarakhand-assembly-passes-historic-uniform-civil-code-ucc-bill-687900">India: Uttarakhand Assembly passes historic Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/06/410269-untitled-design-45.png?imwidth=500" />

In India, the Uttarakhand Assembly on Wednesday (Feb 7) passed the historic Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill introduced by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami-led state government.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-ptis-imran-khan-urges-people-to-leave-houses-and-vote-via-pre-recorded-message-687945">Pakistan elections: PTI's Imran Khan urges people to 'leave houses and vote' via pre-recorded message</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/07/410656-new-wion-2024-02-07t203313119.jpg?imwidth=500" />

On the eve of Pakistan's general elections, former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has released a pre-recorded message from the leader to the nation's public.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-the-us-first-parent-to-be-convicted-of-manslaughter-for-their-childs-mass-shooting-spree-687841">Who is Jennifer Crumbley? First US parent to be convicted of manslaughter for her child's mass shooting crime</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/07/410589-new-wion-2024-02-07t160841881.jpg?imwidth=500" />

In the United States, a jury has, for the first time, found a parent guilty of failing to stop their child from committing a crime. 45-year-old Jennifer Crumbley has become the first US parent to be convicted of manslaughter over a mass shooting carried out by her son Ethan in November 2021.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/explained-transformation-of-europes-deepest-base-metal-mine-into-sustainable-energy-haven-687919">Explained | Europe’s deepest base metal mine to be turned into ‘gravity energy’ store</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/07/410637-new-wion-2024-02-07t192905556.jpg?imwidth=500" />

Pyhäsalmi Mine, which happens to be Europe's deepest base metal mine, is being given a new lease on life, one that will help the planet. Here's everything you need to know

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-to-miss-rajkot-ranchi-tests-mohammed-siraj-set-for-return-report-687936">IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli to miss Rajkot, Ranchi Tests; Mohammed Siraj set for return - Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/07/410651-virat-kohli-1.png?imwidth=500" />

India’s star batter Virat Kohli is likely to miss the upcoming third and fourth Test against England as his anticipated return now gets prolonged. Virat, who missed the opening two Test matches against England in Hyderabad and Vizag was likely to return for the third Test in Rajkot, however, according to the latest report he won’t be available for the crucial third Test starting on Thursday (Feb 15).

In Pakistan, in the lead-up to crucial general elections, deadly blasts have been reported from different parts of the nation. In the Middle East, militant group Hamas has reportedly proposed a ceasefire in Gaza amid ongoing conflict with Israel.

In Pakistan, in the lead-up to crucial general elections, deadly blasts have been reported from different parts of the nation. In the Middle East, militant group Hamas has reportedly proposed a ceasefire in Gaza amid ongoing conflict with Israel. Meanwhile, the EU has initiated legal action against Hungary's controversial sovereignty law. In India, the Uttarakhand Assembly has passed a landmark Uniform Civil Code Bill. Meanwhile, in the world of sports, reports suggest that Virat Kohli may miss the upcoming third and fourth Tests against England. Click on the headlines to read more. Pakistan Elections 2024 LIVE | Another blast in Karachi killed at least one and injures three: Report As Pakistan prepares for closely watched elections for national and provincial assemblies, on Wednesday (Feb 7th) multiple blasts in the nation have claimed at least 28 lives. Follow WION for all the LIVE updates. Israel war: Hamas proposes a four-month Gaza truce plan, says report Palestinian militant group Hamas has put forth a four-month (135 days) ceasefire plan aimed at ending the ongoing war between its fighters and Israel, reported Reuters. EU launches legal action against Hungary’s controversial ‘sovereignty law’ The European Commission, on Wednesday (Feb 7) launched legal action against Hungary’s controversial “sovereignty law” which the ruling Fidesz party of Prime Minister Viktor Orban said was necessary to protect Budapest from foreign political interference. Saudi Arabia says no ties with Israel until Palestinian state is 'recognised' Saudi Arabia told the United States that it can't have any relations with Israel in the absence of recognition of the Palestinian state, a report published by the news agency Reuters said on Wednesday (Feb 7). ‘Carlson is wrong’: Kremlin denies Tucker’s claims of him alone trying to interview Putin amid Ukraine war The Kremlin, on Tuesday (Feb 6) confirmed that Tucker Carlson has been granted permission to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Moscow rejected the former Fox News anchor’s claims that he was the only one among Western media figures trying to interview the Russian president amid the ongoing war. India: Uttarakhand Assembly passes historic Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill In India, the Uttarakhand Assembly on Wednesday (Feb 7) passed the historic Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill introduced by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami-led state government. Pakistan elections: PTI's Imran Khan urges people to 'leave houses and vote' via pre-recorded message On the eve of Pakistan's general elections, former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has released a pre-recorded message from the leader to the nation's public. Who is Jennifer Crumbley? First US parent to be convicted of manslaughter for her child's mass shooting crime In the United States, a jury has, for the first time, found a parent guilty of failing to stop their child from committing a crime. 45-year-old Jennifer Crumbley has become the first US parent to be convicted of manslaughter over a mass shooting carried out by her son Ethan in November 2021. Explained | Europe’s deepest base metal mine to be turned into ‘gravity energy’ store Pyhäsalmi Mine, which happens to be Europe's deepest base metal mine, is being given a new lease on life, one that will help the planet. Here's everything you need to know IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli to miss Rajkot, Ranchi Tests; Mohammed Siraj set for return - Report India’s star batter Virat Kohli is likely to miss the upcoming third and fourth Test against England as his anticipated return now gets prolonged. Virat, who missed the opening two Test matches against England in Hyderabad and Vizag was likely to return for the third Test in Rajkot, however, according to the latest report he won’t be available for the crucial third Test starting on Thursday (Feb 15).

Top 10 World News: Multiple blasts rock Pakistan; Hamas proposes truce in Gaza, and more

The Kohinoor diamond, known for being one of the largest cut diamonds, has sparked&nbsp;a controversy after Buckingham Palace announced King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis. The belief of the curse of Kohinoor is being talked about linking King Charles’ health crisis to the “curse of Kohinoor”.

<h2>What is the curse of Kohinoor</h2>

One of the most contentious jewels in the world is the 105.6-carat Kohinoor diamond, which is presently owned by King Charles III and Queen consort Camilla. It is believed that any king or prince who was in possession of the Kohinoor diamond is said to have lost both his realm and his life.

<h2>Story of Kohinoor</h2>

It is said that Kohinoor was found in the Golconda region's Kullur Mines. It was placed in a Hindu goddess' shrine to serve as her eye. After being obtained by the Khilji dynasty in 1310, the diamond was transferred between dynasties.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/europe/king-charles-health-king-charles-iii-prince-harry-meghan-markle-charles-health-1707163630799" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/europe/king-charles-health-king-charles-iii-prince-harry-meghan-markle-charles-health-1707163630799&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzzszq3pmEAxWd5DgGHQK3Ch4QFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1LH3u4KWyqbZKP1OIQb40l" dir="ltr" href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/europe/king-charles-health-king-charles-iii-prince-harry-meghan-markle-charles-health-1707163630799&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzzszq3pmEAxWd5DgGHQK3Ch4QFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1LH3u4KWyqbZKP1OIQb40l" target="_blank">King Charles&nbsp;III health: Here's What We Know</a>

Babur obtained ownership of the Kohinoor in 1526. Shah Jahan ordered the creation of a Peacock Throne with Kohinoor embedded as its centerpiece in 1628. The Peacock Throne and the Kohinoor diamond were taken by Persian monarch Nader Shah during his invasion of Delhi in 1739. The diamond stayed in Afghanistan for many years till the Kohinoor was returned to India in 1813 after Maharaja Ranjit Singh overthrew the Afghan Durrani dynasty. However, the British East India Company acquired ownership of the Kohinoor after Ranjit Singh passed away in 1839, pressuring his 11-year-old son Duleep to sign a document handing the diamond to the British Empire.

It should be mentioned that the East India Company was nearly destroyed in the Revolt of 1857, only a few years after they had planned to bring the Kohinoor to England.

<h2>What is Kohinoor diamond male curse?</h2>

People link the fall of the Khilji Empire, Tughlaq Empire, Mughal Empire, Durrani dynasty and Ranjit Singh’s demise to owning the Kohinoor.

It is believed that because the British were aware of the "curse of Kohinoor," no male heir to the throne has ever worn it.

Women from the British Royal family are the only ones who have worn the Kohinoor diamond. For the first time, the Kohinoor was set inside Queen Alexandra's crown, Queen Victoria wore it as a brooch. It was worn by the Queen Mother during her 1937 coronation, and again by Queen Elizabeth II at her 1953 coronation. 
 
However, Queen companion Camilla did not wear it during King Charles’ coronation ceremony in 2022.

As King Charles’ cancer diagnosis came 17 months after he acceded to the British throne, it is being linked to the Kohinoor curse, that it might have been the reason behind the King Charles’ health crisis.

Watch:&nbsp;Britain's King Charles diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace says

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&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Kohinoor diamond, known for being one of the largest cut diamonds, has sparked a controversy after Buckingham Palace announced King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis.

The Kohinoor diamond, known for being one of the largest cut diamonds, has sparked a controversy after Buckingham Palace announced King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis. The belief of the curse of Kohinoor is being talked about linking King Charles’ health crisis to the “curse of Kohinoor”. What is the curse of Kohinoor One of the most contentious jewels in the world is the 105.6-carat Kohinoor diamond, which is presently owned by King Charles III and Queen consort Camilla. It is believed that any king or prince who was in possession of the Kohinoor diamond is said to have lost both his realm and his life. Story of Kohinoor It is said that Kohinoor was found in the Golconda region's Kullur Mines. It was placed in a Hindu goddess' shrine to serve as her eye. After being obtained by the Khilji dynasty in 1310, the diamond was transferred between dynasties. Also Read: King Charles III health: Here's What We Know Babur obtained ownership of the Kohinoor in 1526. Shah Jahan ordered the creation of a Peacock Throne with Kohinoor embedded as its centerpiece in 1628. The Peacock Throne and the Kohinoor diamond were taken by Persian monarch Nader Shah during his invasion of Delhi in 1739. The diamond stayed in Afghanistan for many years till the Kohinoor was returned to India in 1813 after Maharaja Ranjit Singh overthrew the Afghan Durrani dynasty. However, the British East India Company acquired ownership of the Kohinoor after Ranjit Singh passed away in 1839, pressuring his 11-year-old son Duleep to sign a document handing the diamond to the British Empire. It should be mentioned that the East India Company was nearly destroyed in the Revolt of 1857, only a few years after they had planned to bring the Kohinoor to England. What is Kohinoor diamond male curse? People link the fall of the Khilji Empire, Tughlaq Empire, Mughal Empire, Durrani dynasty and Ranjit Singh’s demise to owning the Kohinoor. It is believed that because the British were aware of the "curse of Kohinoor," no male heir to the throne has ever worn it. Women from the British Royal family are the only ones who have worn the Kohinoor diamond. For the first time, the Kohinoor was set inside Queen Alexandra's crown, Queen Victoria wore it as a brooch. It was worn by the Queen Mother during her 1937 coronation, and again by Queen Elizabeth II at her 1953 coronation. However, Queen companion Camilla did not wear it during King Charles’ coronation ceremony in 2022. As King Charles’ cancer diagnosis came 17 months after he acceded to the British throne, it is being linked to the Kohinoor curse, that it might have been the reason behind the King Charles’ health crisis. Watch: Britain's King Charles diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace says × (With inputs from agencies)

Is the Kohinoor diamond really cursed? Male wearers of it in British royal family had several troubles

An advanced group of Chinese hackers taking aim at US critical infrastructure have been active for as long as half a decade, American and allied intelligence agencies said in a joint statement on Wednesday.

China-linked hackers target US infrastructure for over five years

Pakistan temporarily suspended mobile phone services on Thursday to strengthen security as voting began in the country's national election, the interior ministry said.

Pakistan elections 2024: Mobile services suspended in Pakistan due to security threats

A volcano erupted on Thursday (Feb 8)&nbsp;in southwest Iceland, marking the sixth outbreak on the Reykjanes peninsula since 2021, according to the country's meteorological office. This event marks the second eruption in the region this year, adding to the series of volcanic activities in the area, as reported by Reuters.

Live footage captured from the vicinity displayed images of bright-orange molten rock spouting from fissures in the ground. The eruption spectacle attracted attention as streams of lava flowed and cascaded down the landscape.

Watch the video here:

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Incredible lava fountaining ongoing! <a href="https://t.co/O3X5oaa8s5">pic.twitter.com/O3X5oaa8s5</a>
— Alex Spahn 🌋🌪️☄️ (@spahn711) <a href="https://twitter.com/spahn711/status/1755478877630050483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The Icelandic Meteorological Office issued a warning, alerting the public about the volcanic eruption occurring north of Sylingarfell. Concurrently, the nearby Blue Lagoon geothermal spa announced its closure as a precautionary measure in response to the volcanic activity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-footage-shows-struggling-killer-whales-trapped-in-ice-off-japans-hokkaido-687554">Also read |&nbsp;Drone footage shows struggling killer whales trapped in ice off Japan's Hokkaido</a>

<h2>Not the first time...</h2>

The latest eruption follows a similar event on January 14, which lasted approximately two days. During that eruption, lava flows encroached upon the outskirts of the Grindavik fishing town, prompting the evacuation of nearly 4,000 residents and causing damage to some residential properties.

The Sylingarfell mountain, the epicentre of the eruption, is located north of Grindavik. However, it remains uncertain whether Thursday's volcanic activity will directly impact the nearby village.

Also watch |&nbsp;Iceland Volcano Eruption: Seismic activity intensified overnight near Grindavik

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iceland-volcano-eruption-seismic-activity-intensified-overnight-near-grindavik-680426/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In anticipation of future volcanic events, Icelandic authorities commenced construction of dykes aimed at diverting lava flows away from residential areas and critical infrastructure. Despite a downgrade in the volcanic system's threat level, local authorities have cautioned about the potential for additional eruptions as land elevation continues to rise due to subterranean magma accumulation.

Iceland's unique geological landscape, featuring over 30 active volcanoes, has established the country as a hotspot for volcano tourism.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A volcano erupted on Thursday (Feb 8) in southwest Iceland, marking the sixth outbreak on the Reykjanes peninsula since 2021, according to the country's meteorological office.

A volcano erupted on Thursday (Feb 8) in southwest Iceland, marking the sixth outbreak on the Reykjanes peninsula since 2021, according to the country's meteorological office. This event marks the second eruption in the region this year, adding to the series of volcanic activities in the area, as reported by Reuters. Live footage captured from the vicinity displayed images of bright-orange molten rock spouting from fissures in the ground. The eruption spectacle attracted attention as streams of lava flowed and cascaded down the landscape. Watch the video here: Incredible lava fountaining ongoing! pic.twitter.com/O3X5oaa8s5 — Alex Spahn 🌋🌪️☄️ (@spahn711) February 8, 2024 × The Icelandic Meteorological Office issued a warning, alerting the public about the volcanic eruption occurring north of Sylingarfell. Concurrently, the nearby Blue Lagoon geothermal spa announced its closure as a precautionary measure in response to the volcanic activity. Also read | Drone footage shows struggling killer whales trapped in ice off Japan's Hokkaido Not the first time... The latest eruption follows a similar event on January 14, which lasted approximately two days. During that eruption, lava flows encroached upon the outskirts of the Grindavik fishing town, prompting the evacuation of nearly 4,000 residents and causing damage to some residential properties. The Sylingarfell mountain, the epicentre of the eruption, is located north of Grindavik. However, it remains uncertain whether Thursday's volcanic activity will directly impact the nearby village. Also watch | Iceland Volcano Eruption: Seismic activity intensified overnight near Grindavik In anticipation of future volcanic events, Icelandic authorities commenced construction of dykes aimed at diverting lava flows away from residential areas and critical infrastructure. Despite a downgrade in the volcanic system's threat level, local authorities have cautioned about the potential for additional eruptions as land elevation continues to rise due to subterranean magma accumulation. Iceland's unique geological landscape, featuring over 30 active volcanoes, has established the country as a hotspot for volcano tourism. (With inputs from agencies)

Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula experiences 6th volcanic eruption since 2021: WATCH

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Feb 7) ordered troops to prepare to enter the Gaza Strip's Rafah after rejecting Hamas' response to a ceasefire proposal in the besieged Palestinian territory.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Feb 7) ordered troops to prepare to enter the Gaza Strip's Rafah after rejecting Hamas' response to a ceasefire proposal in the besieged Palestinian territory. In televised remarks, Prime Minister Netanyahu said he ordered troops to prepare to operate in Rafah and that total victory over Hamas was just months away. Reacting to the ceasefire proposal, Netanyahu said, "Giving in to the bizarre demands of Hamas that we have just heard will... only invite another massacre." US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, who is on his fifth tour to the Middle East, met the Israeli PM and said that Hamas' counter-proposal (of a ceasefire) at least offered an opportunity to pursue negotiations. Also read | Joe Biden gets ridiculed online after struggling to recall Hamas' name during speech "While there are some clear non-starters in Hamas's response, we do think it creates space for agreement to be reached, and we will work at that relentlessly until we get there," Blinken told reporters in Tel Aviv. He stopped short of calling on Israel not to move into Rafah, but expressed concerns at Netanyahu's announcement by saying that any "military operation that Israel undertakes needs to put civilians first and foremost." Mounting concerns in Rafah over military push A report by the news agency AFP on Thursday said that concerns were mounting in Rafah over the upcoming military push in the city by Israel. Hundreds of Palestinians have sought refuge in the city since the conflict began on Oct 7 last year. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, meanwhile, warned that a military push into the city "would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare." Concerns were also mounting for displaced Palestinian civilians thronging Rafah. Till now, more than half of Gaza's 2.4 million population has sought safety in the city. Also watch | Antony Blinken discusses Hamas' truce deal with Israeli PM Netanyahu × In a statement, UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said, "Their living conditions are abysmal -- they lack the basic necessities to survive, stalked by hunger, disease and death." "As the war encroaches further into Rafah, I am extremely concerned about the safety and well-being of families which have endured the unthinkable in search of safety," Griffiths added. Death toll in Gaza over 27,700 Meanwhile, the health ministry in Gaza said that the death toll has climbed to 27,708 since the conflict began. The latest toll includes 123 deaths over the past 24 hours, the ministry said, adding, a total of 67,147 people have been wounded. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu orders troops to prepare to enter Rafah

The Kremlin, on Tuesday (Feb 6) confirmed that Tucker Carlson has been granted permission to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Moscow rejected the former Fox News anchor’s claims that he was the only one among Western media figures trying to interview the Russian president amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

<h2>‘One-sided’</h2>

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin had agreed to the Carlson interview because the former Fox News host’s approach differs from the “one-sided” reporting of the Ukraine war by many Western news outlets.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-fox-news-host-tucker-carlson-to-interview-russian-president-vladimir-putin-687671">Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>

After weeks of speculation and media reports, Carlson on Tuesday (Feb 6) confirmed he will be interviewing Putin saying that everything got finalised after months of planning. “There are risks to doing an interview like this, obviously, so we’ve thought about it over many months,” he said.&nbsp;

This interview would mark the first time that the Russian president would talk to a Western journalist one-on-one since launching its invasion of Ukraine or what Moscow calls its “special military operation”.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Not correct’</h2>

Kremlin said that in a four-minute promoting the expected interview, Carlson falsely asserted that he was the only one among the Western media trying to interview Putin. The former Fox News host claimed that “not a single Western journalist has bothered to interview” the Russian president during the Ukraine war.

This claim was not only rejected by several American journalists and prominent networks in the US but also by the Kremlin spokesperson.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-tucker-carlsons-end-on-fox-news-after-years-of-controversies-585820">Explained: How Tucker Carlson's years of controversies at Fox News ended in his ouster</a>

“Mr. Carlson is not correct, but he couldn’t have known that. We receive a lot of requests for interviews with the president,” said Peskov, during his daily briefing on Wednesday.&nbsp;

“When it comes to the countries of the collective West, the large network media, TV channels, (and) large newspapers can in no way boast of even trying to at least look impartial in terms of coverage,” he added. &nbsp;

The Russian president has “no desire to communicate with such media” because it’s “unlikely that there can be any benefit from this,” said the Kremlin spokesperson.&nbsp;

<h2>Why Tucker Carlson?</h2>

Peskov, on Tuesday, was also directly asked why Carlson was chosen to interview Putin to which he said the former Fox News host’s approach was “in no way pro-Russian, it is not pro-Ukrainian - it is pro-American”.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Tucker Carlson's exit costs FOX $690 million

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The interview is likely to be aired on Thursday (Feb 8), Russian news agency TASS said, citing reports by the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Kremlin, on Tuesday (Feb 6) confirmed that Tucker Carlson has been granted permission to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Moscow rejected the former Fox News anchor’s claims that he was the only one among Western media figures trying to interview the Russian president amid the ongoing war.

The Kremlin, on Tuesday (Feb 6) confirmed that Tucker Carlson has been granted permission to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Moscow rejected the former Fox News anchor’s claims that he was the only one among Western media figures trying to interview the Russian president amid the ongoing war. ‘One-sided’ Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin had agreed to the Carlson interview because the former Fox News host’s approach differs from the “one-sided” reporting of the Ukraine war by many Western news outlets. ALSO READ | Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin After weeks of speculation and media reports, Carlson on Tuesday (Feb 6) confirmed he will be interviewing Putin saying that everything got finalised after months of planning. “There are risks to doing an interview like this, obviously, so we’ve thought about it over many months,” he said. This interview would mark the first time that the Russian president would talk to a Western journalist one-on-one since launching its invasion of Ukraine or what Moscow calls its “special military operation”. ‘Not correct’ Kremlin said that in a four-minute promoting the expected interview, Carlson falsely asserted that he was the only one among the Western media trying to interview Putin. The former Fox News host claimed that “not a single Western journalist has bothered to interview” the Russian president during the Ukraine war. This claim was not only rejected by several American journalists and prominent networks in the US but also by the Kremlin spokesperson. ALSO READ | Explained: How Tucker Carlson's years of controversies at Fox News ended in his ouster “Mr. Carlson is not correct, but he couldn’t have known that. We receive a lot of requests for interviews with the president,” said Peskov, during his daily briefing on Wednesday. “When it comes to the countries of the collective West, the large network media, TV channels, (and) large newspapers can in no way boast of even trying to at least look impartial in terms of coverage,” he added. The Russian president has “no desire to communicate with such media” because it’s “unlikely that there can be any benefit from this,” said the Kremlin spokesperson. Why Tucker Carlson? Peskov, on Tuesday, was also directly asked why Carlson was chosen to interview Putin to which he said the former Fox News host’s approach was “in no way pro-Russian, it is not pro-Ukrainian - it is pro-American”. WATCH | Tucker Carlson's exit costs FOX $690 million The interview is likely to be aired on Thursday (Feb 8), Russian news agency TASS said, citing reports by the Wall Street Journal. (With inputs from agencies)

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