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U.S. has confirmed that it has conducted additional strikes on Iran-linked Houthi rebels. This comes as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is heading to West Asia again on his new crisis tour of the region. Blinken seeks to push forward a proposal to halt the devastating conflict in return for the release of hostages.

Israel-Palestine war: Antony Blinken heads back to West Asia to push for hostage deal

<p>Even as the US and China were engaged in an intense diplomatic showdown over the spy balloons incident last year, tens of thousands of bots were battling on Twitter, now X, to sway public opinion, an analysis has revealed.</p>

<p>The bots were deployed to shape the debate around the spy balloon incident, with most of them toeing the official narrative of Beijing.</p>

<p>Two researchers at Carnegie Mellon University in Pennsylvania tracked more than 1.2 million posts on X made between 31 January and 22 February 2023. The research by Kathleen Carley and Lynnette Hui Xian Ng showed these posts were made by 120,000 users and contained hashtags like #chineseballoon and #weatherballoon.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How were the posts analysed?</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers used X’s location feature to geo-locate the posts and deployed an algorithm called BotHunter, which identifies whether an account is behaving like a bot or a human.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Elon Musk to transform X into a super app with calling feature</strong></p>

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<p>“There are lots of different things [identifying a bot] is based off, but examples are whether your messages are being sent out so fast that a human literally can’t type that fast, or if you’re geo-tagged in London one minute, then in New Zealand when it’s physically impossible for a person to do so,” Carley explained on how the algorithm functions.</p>

<h2><strong>Shocking findings</strong></h2>

<p>The research found that 35 per cent of users located in the US were behaving like bots, while 65 per cent showed human-like features. On the contrary, 65 per cent of users geo-tagged for China behaved like bots and 35 per cent like humans.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0qWHpgUZk52noMdxirB7E-" data-ved="2ahUKEwiSw8re-5OEAxX_TGwGHUjfAbUQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-tiktok-x-ceos-grilled-at-us-senate-hearing-on-combating-online-child-exploitation-685605" jsname="YKoRaf">Meta, TikTok, X CEOs grilled at US Senate hearing on combating online child exploitation</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, of those accounts geo-tagged for locations outside the US and China, 42 per cent were bots and 58 per cent were humans.</p>

<p>“You’re seeing more bot activity from the tweets that appear to be coming out of the Chinese community than we are seeing coming out of the American community,” says Carley.</p>

<h2><strong>Who operates these bots?</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers steered clear of speculating who was operating these bots but experts believe it could be a mix of both state-backed and individual actors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since most of the bot accounts peddled China’s narrative, their strings could be highly likely attached to their masters in the communist country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Even as the US and China were engaged in an intense diplomatic showdown over the spy balloons incident last year, tens of thousands of bots were battling on Twitter, now X, to sway public opinion, an analysis has revealed.

Even as the US and China were engaged in an intense diplomatic showdown over the spy balloons incident last year, tens of thousands of bots were battling on Twitter, now X, to sway public opinion, an analysis has revealed. The bots were deployed to shape the debate around the spy balloon incident, with most of them toeing the official narrative of Beijing. Two researchers at Carnegie Mellon University in Pennsylvania tracked more than 1.2 million posts on X made between 31 January and 22 February 2023. The research by Kathleen Carley and Lynnette Hui Xian Ng showed these posts were made by 120,000 users and contained hashtags like #chineseballoon and #weatherballoon. How were the posts analysed? The researchers used X’s location feature to geo-locate the posts and deployed an algorithm called BotHunter, which identifies whether an account is behaving like a bot or a human. Watch: Elon Musk to transform X into a super app with calling feature × “There are lots of different things [identifying a bot] is based off, but examples are whether your messages are being sent out so fast that a human literally can’t type that fast, or if you’re geo-tagged in London one minute, then in New Zealand when it’s physically impossible for a person to do so,” Carley explained on how the algorithm functions. Shocking findings The research found that 35 per cent of users located in the US were behaving like bots, while 65 per cent showed human-like features. On the contrary, 65 per cent of users geo-tagged for China behaved like bots and 35 per cent like humans. Also read: Meta, TikTok, X CEOs grilled at US Senate hearing on combating online child exploitation Meanwhile, of those accounts geo-tagged for locations outside the US and China, 42 per cent were bots and 58 per cent were humans. “You’re seeing more bot activity from the tweets that appear to be coming out of the Chinese community than we are seeing coming out of the American community,” says Carley. Who operates these bots? The researchers steered clear of speculating who was operating these bots but experts believe it could be a mix of both state-backed and individual actors. Since most of the bot accounts peddled China’s narrative, their strings could be highly likely attached to their masters in the communist country. (With inputs from agencies)

China’s massive bot army battled with US on X in clash over spy balloons in 2023: Study

<p>Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister Hakan Fidan officially confirmed an imminent visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (Feb 5), without disclosing the exact date of the meeting.</p>

<p>"This&nbsp;visit&nbsp;will provide us the opportunity to discuss numerous issues," the minister told state television station TRT Haber.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Minister Fidan expressed hope that the visit would provide an opportunity for discussions on various pressing issues, hinting at the diplomatic agenda both nations intend to address during Putin's visit, as reported by AFP.</p>

<p>While local media speculated February 12 as a possible date for the meeting, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's office has yet to confirm the exact schedule.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-abhay-thakur-indias-new-ambassador-to-russia-686746">Also read |&nbsp;Who is Abhay Thakur, India's new ambassador to Russia</a></p>

<h2><strong>Unique position: First NATO member visit since 2022</strong></h2>

<p>If realised, this visit would mark an historic event as Turkey would become the first NATO member to host Putin since the commencement of his invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.</p>

<p>Despite geopolitical tensions, Turkey, under Erdogan's leadership, has successfully maintained trade and political relations with both Ukraine and Russia, allowing the latter to evade Western sanctions while continuing arms sales to Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>What would be the key discussion points?</strong></h2>

<p>Minister Fidan outlined the primary topics on the agenda, emphasising discussions on energy cooperation, the ongoing war in Gaza, Black Sea trade routes, and the complex situation in Syria.</p>

<p>Turkey and Russia find themselves on opposing sides in the Syrian conflict, particularly concerning the presence of PKK Kurdish forces in the northeast region. The countries previously reached an accord in 2019, but tensions persist as Turkey accuses Russia of non-compliance.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Putin's black sea fleet warship sunk by Kyiv</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putins-black-sea-fleet-warship-sunk-by-kyiv-686485/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Last meeting and ongoing relations</strong></h2>

<p>The most recent face-to-face meeting between Putin and Erdogan occurred in September 2023 in Sochi. Despite infrequent in-person meetings, the leaders maintain regular communication through phone conversations.</p>

<p>Past disputes, notably regarding the Syrian buffer zone and accusations of non-compliance, add layers of complexity to the diplomatic relations between Ankara and Moscow.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister Hakan Fidan officially confirmed an imminent visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (Feb 5), without disclosing the exact date of the meeting.

Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister Hakan Fidan officially confirmed an imminent visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (Feb 5), without disclosing the exact date of the meeting. "This visit will provide us the opportunity to discuss numerous issues," the minister told state television station TRT Haber. Minister Fidan expressed hope that the visit would provide an opportunity for discussions on various pressing issues, hinting at the diplomatic agenda both nations intend to address during Putin's visit, as reported by AFP. While local media speculated February 12 as a possible date for the meeting, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's office has yet to confirm the exact schedule. Also read | Who is Abhay Thakur, India's new ambassador to Russia Unique position: First NATO member visit since 2022 If realised, this visit would mark an historic event as Turkey would become the first NATO member to host Putin since the commencement of his invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Despite geopolitical tensions, Turkey, under Erdogan's leadership, has successfully maintained trade and political relations with both Ukraine and Russia, allowing the latter to evade Western sanctions while continuing arms sales to Ukraine. What would be the key discussion points? Minister Fidan outlined the primary topics on the agenda, emphasising discussions on energy cooperation, the ongoing war in Gaza, Black Sea trade routes, and the complex situation in Syria. Turkey and Russia find themselves on opposing sides in the Syrian conflict, particularly concerning the presence of PKK Kurdish forces in the northeast region. The countries previously reached an accord in 2019, but tensions persist as Turkey accuses Russia of non-compliance. Also watch | Gravitas | Putin's black sea fleet warship sunk by Kyiv Last meeting and ongoing relations The most recent face-to-face meeting between Putin and Erdogan occurred in September 2023 in Sochi. Despite infrequent in-person meetings, the leaders maintain regular communication through phone conversations. Past disputes, notably regarding the Syrian buffer zone and accusations of non-compliance, add layers of complexity to the diplomatic relations between Ankara and Moscow. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey confirms Putin's visit, marking his first to a NATO member since 2022 Ukraine invasion

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<p>El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele was declared the winner of Sunday's general election in a landslide, claiming about 80 per cent of the preliminary vote, the news agency Reuters reported. Bukele, 42, was the favourite to win another five-year term as voters largely cast aside concerns about the erosion of democracy to reward him for a fierce gang crackdown that improved security in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the election, Bukele campaigned on the success of the gang crackdown under which authorities suspended civil liberties to arrest over 75,000 Salvadorans without charges.</p>

<p>The arrests led to a sharp decline in nationwide murder rates. On Sunday, Bukele cast his ballot at a voting centre on one of the capital San Salvador's main avenues before giving a press conference.</p>

<h2><strong>'We have already overcome our cancer'</strong></h2>

<p>"So, if we have already overcome our cancer, with metastases that were the gangs, now we only have to recover and be the person we always wanted to be," Bukele told reporters and urged citizens to cast their votes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a separate rally on Sunday, Bukele said, "In all the history of the world, since the existence of democracy, never has a project won with the quantity of votes that we have won. Literally, it's the highest percentage in all of history. The highest difference between first and second place in history."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ecuador Violence: Series of raids inside El Salvador's prison</strong></p>

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<p>"They (media) say that Salvadorans are oppressed, that Salvadorans don't want the emergency measures, that Salvadorans are afraid of the government. Let God tell the journalists to accompany us on this night of total freedom and total security, here in the safest country of the Western hemisphere. Don't be scared of me. I'm just a politician, an official. Believe in the Salvadoran people," he added.</p>

<p>"We are on the cusp of winning the war against the gangs. Literally, we went from being, it's not an exaggeration, it's not a hyperbole, literally we went from being the most dangerous country in the world to being the most secure in all of the Western hemisphere," the president further said.</p>

<h2><strong>Bukele defends crime policy</strong></h2>

<p>President Bukele called on voters to back his hardline stance against crime and vowed to keep up the fight against gangs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also hit back at critics of his crime policy, saying he was "baffled" by accusations from foreign media regarding the arrests of innocents by the Salvadoran police.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs form agencies)</em></p>


El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele was declared the winner of Sunday's general election in a landslide, claiming about 80 per cent of the preliminary vote, the news agency Reuters reported.

El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele was declared the winner of Sunday's general election in a landslide, claiming about 80 per cent of the preliminary vote, the news agency Reuters reported. Bukele, 42, was the favourite to win another five-year term as voters largely cast aside concerns about the erosion of democracy to reward him for a fierce gang crackdown that improved security in the country. During the election, Bukele campaigned on the success of the gang crackdown under which authorities suspended civil liberties to arrest over 75,000 Salvadorans without charges. The arrests led to a sharp decline in nationwide murder rates. On Sunday, Bukele cast his ballot at a voting centre on one of the capital San Salvador's main avenues before giving a press conference. 'We have already overcome our cancer' "So, if we have already overcome our cancer, with metastases that were the gangs, now we only have to recover and be the person we always wanted to be," Bukele told reporters and urged citizens to cast their votes. In a separate rally on Sunday, Bukele said, "In all the history of the world, since the existence of democracy, never has a project won with the quantity of votes that we have won. Literally, it's the highest percentage in all of history. The highest difference between first and second place in history." Also watch | Ecuador Violence: Series of raids inside El Salvador's prison × "They (media) say that Salvadorans are oppressed, that Salvadorans don't want the emergency measures, that Salvadorans are afraid of the government. Let God tell the journalists to accompany us on this night of total freedom and total security, here in the safest country of the Western hemisphere. Don't be scared of me. I'm just a politician, an official. Believe in the Salvadoran people," he added. "We are on the cusp of winning the war against the gangs. Literally, we went from being, it's not an exaggeration, it's not a hyperbole, literally we went from being the most dangerous country in the world to being the most secure in all of the Western hemisphere," the president further said. Bukele defends crime policy President Bukele called on voters to back his hardline stance against crime and vowed to keep up the fight against gangs. He also hit back at critics of his crime policy, saying he was "baffled" by accusations from foreign media regarding the arrests of innocents by the Salvadoran police. (With inputs form agencies)

El Salvador general polls: President Nayib Bukele declared winner of elections

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: The US is actively pursuing a second hostage deal as well as humanitarian assistance to Gaza. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is heading to West Asia again on his new crisis tour of the region. Blinken seeks to push forward a proposal to halt the devastating conflict in return for the release of hostages. Watch to know more!

Blinken's fifth West Asia visit: Talks with Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Israel lined up

<p>Senegal’s former prime minister Aminata Toure, now a leading opposition figure, was arrested on Sunday (Feb 4) in the capital Dakar amid protests against the indefinite postponement of the presidential election, reported news agency AFP. Meanwhile, chaos erupted in the capital city as hundreds took to the streets over the delay and clashed with the police.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Protests in Dakar, former PM arrested</strong></h2>

<p>Hundreds of opposition party supporters and police clashed after Senegalese President Macky Sall announced an indefinite postponement of a presidential election set for February 25, a day before official campaigning was due to begin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sall&nbsp;on Saturday (Feb 3) cited a dispute between the National Assembly and the Constitutional Court over the rejection of candidates as the reason for his intervention. The move has since sparked a wave of international concern and has been called by some opposition and civil society groups an “institutional coup”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Senegal: President Macky Sall has announced postponement of presidential polls</strong></p>

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<p>In the early signs of pushback against the postponement, around 200 protesters took to the streets waving Senegalese flags or wearing the jersey of the national football team early afternoon and blocked traffic on one of Dakar’s main streets. Some even burned tyres and threw rocks at the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This prompted the riot police to fire tear gas into the crowd and detain protesters. At least two opposition presidential candidates were reportedly detained by security forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Senegal’s former prime minister Toure was arrested, opposition deputy Guy Marius Sagna told AFP. “I confirm that Aminata Toure has been arrested by the gendarmes,” said Sagna.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Toure was appointed prime minister by the Sall before joining the opposition. Meanwhile, in an online post, candidate Daouda Ndiaye said he was attacked by police.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senegal-president-postpones-presidential-election-686774">Senegal president postpones presidential election</a></strong></p>

<p>The former PM later confirmed that she had been detained and taken to a police station as she got out of her vehicle and called the incumbent president’s postponement an “unprecedented democratic regression.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further protests are expected outside parliament on Monday (Feb 5). Notably, Senegal has never delayed a presidential vote. The announcement has plunged the country, once known as one of West Africa’s most stable democracies, into chaos and uncertainty.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Other countries react</strong></h2>

<p>After Sall’s announcement, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) expressed concern about the circumstances that led to the postponement of the elections and called for a new date to be set quickly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>France, on Sunday, also called on the Senegalese president to end the “uncertainty” created and called for a vote “as soon as possible”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We call on authorities to end the uncertainty about the electoral calendar so the vote can be held as soon as possible, under the rules of Senegalese democracy,” said the French foreign ministry, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-28-killed-after-attack-on-bakery-in-russian-controlled-city-zelensky-visits-frontline-village-686934">Ukraine war: Bakery blast toll rises to 28 in Russia-held city; Zelensky visits frontline</a></strong></p>

<p>The European Union spokesperson Nabila Massrali echoed a similar call and said that the 27-nation bloc calls on “all actors to work...for the staging of a transparent, inclusive and credible election as soon as possible.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US State Department urged Senegal to “swiftly” set a date for a “timely, free and fair election,” in a post on X. It added, “We acknowledge allegations of irregularities, but we are deeply concerned about the disruption to the presidential electoral calendar.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Senegal’s former prime minister Aminata Toure, now a leading opposition figure, was arrested on Sunday (Feb 4) in the capital Dakar amid protests against the indefinite postponement of the presidential election, reported news agency AFP.

Senegal’s former prime minister Aminata Toure, now a leading opposition figure, was arrested on Sunday (Feb 4) in the capital Dakar amid protests against the indefinite postponement of the presidential election, reported news agency AFP. Meanwhile, chaos erupted in the capital city as hundreds took to the streets over the delay and clashed with the police. Protests in Dakar, former PM arrested Hundreds of opposition party supporters and police clashed after Senegalese President Macky Sall announced an indefinite postponement of a presidential election set for February 25, a day before official campaigning was due to begin. Sall on Saturday (Feb 3) cited a dispute between the National Assembly and the Constitutional Court over the rejection of candidates as the reason for his intervention. The move has since sparked a wave of international concern and has been called by some opposition and civil society groups an “institutional coup”. WATCH | Senegal: President Macky Sall has announced postponement of presidential polls In the early signs of pushback against the postponement, around 200 protesters took to the streets waving Senegalese flags or wearing the jersey of the national football team early afternoon and blocked traffic on one of Dakar’s main streets. Some even burned tyres and threw rocks at the police. This prompted the riot police to fire tear gas into the crowd and detain protesters. At least two opposition presidential candidates were reportedly detained by security forces. Senegal’s former prime minister Toure was arrested, opposition deputy Guy Marius Sagna told AFP. “I confirm that Aminata Toure has been arrested by the gendarmes,” said Sagna. Notably, Toure was appointed prime minister by the Sall before joining the opposition. Meanwhile, in an online post, candidate Daouda Ndiaye said he was attacked by police. ALSO READ | Senegal president postpones presidential election The former PM later confirmed that she had been detained and taken to a police station as she got out of her vehicle and called the incumbent president’s postponement an “unprecedented democratic regression.” Further protests are expected outside parliament on Monday (Feb 5). Notably, Senegal has never delayed a presidential vote. The announcement has plunged the country, once known as one of West Africa’s most stable democracies, into chaos and uncertainty. Other countries react After Sall’s announcement, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) expressed concern about the circumstances that led to the postponement of the elections and called for a new date to be set quickly. France, on Sunday, also called on the Senegalese president to end the “uncertainty” created and called for a vote “as soon as possible”. “We call on authorities to end the uncertainty about the electoral calendar so the vote can be held as soon as possible, under the rules of Senegalese democracy,” said the French foreign ministry, in a statement. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Bakery blast toll rises to 28 in Russia-held city; Zelensky visits frontline The European Union spokesperson Nabila Massrali echoed a similar call and said that the 27-nation bloc calls on “all actors to work...for the staging of a transparent, inclusive and credible election as soon as possible.” The US State Department urged Senegal to “swiftly” set a date for a “timely, free and fair election,” in a post on X. It added, “We acknowledge allegations of irregularities, but we are deeply concerned about the disruption to the presidential electoral calendar.” (With inputs from agencies)

Senegal’s former PM Aminata Toure arrested as police and protesters clash over indefinite election delay

Rishi Sunak invited Tory backbenchers to dinner at a five-star hotel in London in an attempt to boost the morale of his troops. Watch the video to know more.

UK: Conservative Party faces internal strife; exclusive survey reveals Tory discontent

A delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front) arrived in New Delhi on Monday on a three-day outreach trip. The Indian government had invited a delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front), to New Delhi, in a significant outreach to the island nation’s most popular politician at the moment. Dissanayake met India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and held a productive meeting. Watch to know more!

Sri Lanka's Marxist party on India visit

Sri Lanka's JVP delegation visits India | India-Sri Lanka Relations

The Swiss Alps make up the most popular Ski destination in the world. But the industry now faces an existential threat as it battles the looming danger of climate change. Unusually mild temperatures have forced the closure of ski resorts across Switzerland. Watch to know more!

Switzerland: Rising temperatures force closure of Ski resorts

U.S. Has confirmed that it has conducted additional strikes on Iran-linked Houthi rebels. This comes as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is heading to West Asia again on his new crisis tour of the region. Blinken seeks to push forward a proposal to halt the devastating conflict in return for the release of hostages.

Blinken's West Asia shuttle diplomacy

Maldivian President Muhammad Muizzu delivered his first presidential address at the parliament today. The main opposition parties which includes the Maldivian Democratic party and the Democrats decided to boycott this address. President Muizzu's address at the opening of The People's Majlis comes after the chaos in the Maldivian parliament. Watch to know more!

Maldives President Muizzu's address ahead of Parliamentary polls, 56 MPs boycott the opening sitting

India’s female robot astronaut Vyommitra will fly into space ahead of Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) ambitious Gaganyaan mission – the country’s manned space flight carrying Indian astronauts into space – said the Union minister of science and technology, on Sunday (Feb 4).

Vyommitra: ISRO to launch India’s female robot astronaut into space ahead of Gaganyaan mission

Parisians have voted in favour of tripling parking costs for SUVs, as the city aims to tackle air pollution and a looming climate crisis. In a closely-watched referendum, over 54 percent voted for special parking fees for heavy, large and polluting sports utility vehicles. Watch to know more!

Paris triples parking costs for SUVs to tackle air pollution

The assault comes days before Pakistan goes to polls. The country has seen dozens of attacks in the last few weeks. Watch to know more!

At least 10 killed in attack on police station in Pakistan

Former US president Donald Trump has again accused Israel of being a part of the plan to kill Iran's top Commander Qassem Soleimani back in early 2020. Qassem Soleimani was killed in a US drone strike in Iraq. Watch to know more!

Israel a part of Qassem Soleimani killing plot ?

Amid the beautiful snowfall in North India's Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir in India, normal life has been heavily impacted. The latest weather changes have been induced by a fresh western disturbance that hit northwest India. Watch to know more!

India Weather Report: Snowfall disrupts normal life in Himalayan hill states

Wildfires sweeping through central Chile have killed at least 112 people. Hundreds are still missing. Neighbourhoods have been scorched, and homes burnt out. Thousands of residents have been left with no choice but to evacuate their homes. Watch to know more!

Chile Wildfires: At least 112 killed, hundreds missing

The Mancurad mango, which is the most popular mango in the Indian state of Goa, is being sold at a whopping price of $84 (Rs 7,000) a dozen in the capital city of Panaji. According to a report by The Times of India (TOI) early Monday (Feb 5), the spike in price has been attributed to the unusual timing of the fruit's entry into markets. In India, the mango season is typically in the summer.

Mangoflation in India`s Goa: Mancurad mangoes being sold for whopping $84 a dozen

Heavy rains have battered the city of Ventura and power outages have impacted more than 355,000 people in the coastal city of California. The authorities have warned of potentially devastating floods and ordered evacuations. Watch to know more!

US: Hurricane alert in California's Ventura

<p>At least 112 people have been killed as wildfires continued to rage across central Chile, reported news agency AFP citing the national organisation in charge of managing victims’ bodies.</p>

<p>On Sunday (Feb 4),&nbsp;President Gabriel Boric had said that the toll is expected to rise in coming days.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Chile: Wildfire rages through central Chile, President Boric conducts aerial inspection</strong></p>

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<p>The death toll rose from 51 on Saturday (Feb 3).</p>

<p>“We are facing a tragedy of very great magnitude,” said Boric, adding it was the country’s deadliest disaster since a 2010 earthquake and tsunami that killed 500 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chilean president has announced two days of national mourning starting on Monday (Feb 5) and asked the country to be prepared for more bad news.</p>

<p>Around 200 people have been reported missing in Viña del Mar and the surrounding area, according to officials.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Situation in Chile</strong></h2>

<p>The wildfires which began several days ago have left bodies in the streets and homes gutted, while officials warned of “complicated” weather conditions in the coastal tourist region of Valparaiso.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The region has witnessed an intense summer heat wave, with temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chile-declares-state-of-emergency-as-10-people-feared-dead-in-massive-forest-fires-686717">Chile declares state of emergency as forest fires leave at least 51 dead</a></strong></p>

<p>Firefighters continue to battle the massive fires which have been burning with the highest intensity around the city of Viña del Mar, one of the coastal cities popular with tourists.</p>

<p>At least 1,600 people were left without homes around the city, reported the Associated Press citing officials.</p>

<p>Chilean authorities have introduced a 9:00 pm (local time) curfew in the hardest-hit areas and sent in the military to help firefighters stem the spread of fires.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of Sunday, nearly 26,000 hectares have been burned across the central and southern regions, according to the national disaster service, SENAPRED.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The SENAPRED chief Alvaro Hormazabal, as per AFP, said firefighters were battling 34 blazes as of Sunday morning, with 43 others under control. Weather “conditions are going to continue to be complicated,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-declares-disaster-calls-for-international-help-as-due-to-raging-wildfires-across-the-country-683834">Colombia declares disaster, calls for international help due to raging wildfires across the country</a></strong></p>

<p>Rodrigo Mundaca, the governor of the Valparaiso region, on Sunday, said that he believed some of the fires could have been intentionally caused, replicating a theory mentioned by Boric.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“These fires began in four points that lit up simultaneously,” Mundaca said, as per AP. “As authorities we will have to work rigorously to find who is responsible.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, wildfires are not uncommon during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer but have become more lethal in recent years. The recent forest fires have been attributed to unusually high temperatures, low humidity and high wind speeds in central Chile.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


At least 112 people have been killed as wildfires continued to rage across central Chile, reported news agency AFP citing the national organisation in charge of managing victims’ bodies.

At least 112 people have been killed as wildfires continued to rage across central Chile, reported news agency AFP citing the national organisation in charge of managing victims’ bodies. On Sunday (Feb 4), President Gabriel Boric had said that the toll is expected to rise in coming days. WATCH | Chile: Wildfire rages through central Chile, President Boric conducts aerial inspection The death toll rose from 51 on Saturday (Feb 3). “We are facing a tragedy of very great magnitude,” said Boric, adding it was the country’s deadliest disaster since a 2010 earthquake and tsunami that killed 500 people. The Chilean president has announced two days of national mourning starting on Monday (Feb 5) and asked the country to be prepared for more bad news. Around 200 people have been reported missing in Viña del Mar and the surrounding area, according to officials. Situation in Chile The wildfires which began several days ago have left bodies in the streets and homes gutted, while officials warned of “complicated” weather conditions in the coastal tourist region of Valparaiso. The region has witnessed an intense summer heat wave, with temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius over the weekend. ALSO READ | Chile declares state of emergency as forest fires leave at least 51 dead Firefighters continue to battle the massive fires which have been burning with the highest intensity around the city of Viña del Mar, one of the coastal cities popular with tourists. At least 1,600 people were left without homes around the city, reported the Associated Press citing officials. Chilean authorities have introduced a 9:00 pm (local time) curfew in the hardest-hit areas and sent in the military to help firefighters stem the spread of fires. As of Sunday, nearly 26,000 hectares have been burned across the central and southern regions, according to the national disaster service, SENAPRED. The SENAPRED chief Alvaro Hormazabal, as per AFP, said firefighters were battling 34 blazes as of Sunday morning, with 43 others under control. Weather “conditions are going to continue to be complicated,” he added. ALSO READ | Colombia declares disaster, calls for international help due to raging wildfires across the country Rodrigo Mundaca, the governor of the Valparaiso region, on Sunday, said that he believed some of the fires could have been intentionally caused, replicating a theory mentioned by Boric. “These fires began in four points that lit up simultaneously,” Mundaca said, as per AP. “As authorities we will have to work rigorously to find who is responsible.” Notably, wildfires are not uncommon during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer but have become more lethal in recent years. The recent forest fires have been attributed to unusually high temperatures, low humidity and high wind speeds in central Chile. (With inputs from agencies)

Chile: At least 112 killed as wildfires continue to rage; president warns toll expected to rise

<p>In the latest development on Middle East crisis,&nbsp;John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US&nbsp;strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Indian state of Jharkhand, Chief Minister Champai Soren's government is poised for a victory in the floor test scheduled for Monday (Feb 5).</p>

<p>In other news, Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun, accused of espionage by China, received a suspended death sentence from a Beijing court.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more.</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-may-launch-additional-strikes-against-iran-backed-groups-686946">Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/04/409987-us-and-uk-air-strikes-on-houthi-positions.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US military hit Tehran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria were a retaliation for a deadly attack on US troops in Jordan, which killed three US soldiers. A day after that, the US and the United Kingdom unleashed attacks on the Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen late on Saturday in a joint action.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-floor-test-today-champai-govt-confident-of-win-ex-cm-soren-to-cast-vote-687009">Jharkhand floor test today: Champai govt confident of win, ex-CM Soren to cast vote</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410034-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>A floor test in the Indian state of Jharkhand will take place on Monday (Feb 5) with Chief Minister Champai Soren's government confident of a win. Former chief minister Hemant Soren, who has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), will cast his vote in the floor test. Champai Soren became the CM last week following political upheaval in the state.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-grammy-awards-2024-full-list-of-winners-updating-live-686970">Grammy Awards 2024: Full list of winners (updating live)</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410030-horizons-5.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>Music’s biggest night is here as The Recording Academy brought out its big guns to acknowledge the best in the world of music last year. Ahead of the main televised event, Grammys premiere ceremony began at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. While Elaine Martone picked up her Grammy for being the Producer of the Year in Classical music, Michelle Obama won Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording for&nbsp;<em>The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-writer-yang-hengjun-given-suspended-death-sentence-in-china-687028">Australian writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410048-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>Australian writer Yang Hengjun a suspended death, who was accused of espionage by China, was given a suspended death sentence by a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Sydney-based scholar Feng Chongyi said the court delivered a suspended death sentence that would convert to life imprisonment after two years.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indian startups raised $732 million across 107 deals in January 2024</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-startups-raised-732-million-across-107-deals-in-january-2024-687032/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


In the latest development on Middle East crisis, John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow.

In the latest development on Middle East crisis, John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow. In the Indian state of Jharkhand, Chief Minister Champai Soren's government is poised for a victory in the floor test scheduled for Monday (Feb 5). In other news, Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun, accused of espionage by China, received a suspended death sentence from a Beijing court. Click on the headlines to read more. Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow. The US military hit Tehran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria were a retaliation for a deadly attack on US troops in Jordan, which killed three US soldiers. A day after that, the US and the United Kingdom unleashed attacks on the Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen late on Saturday in a joint action. Jharkhand floor test today: Champai govt confident of win, ex-CM Soren to cast vote A floor test in the Indian state of Jharkhand will take place on Monday (Feb 5) with Chief Minister Champai Soren's government confident of a win. Former chief minister Hemant Soren, who has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), will cast his vote in the floor test. Champai Soren became the CM last week following political upheaval in the state. Grammy Awards 2024: Full list of winners (updating live) Music’s biggest night is here as The Recording Academy brought out its big guns to acknowledge the best in the world of music last year. Ahead of the main televised event, Grammys premiere ceremony began at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. While Elaine Martone picked up her Grammy for being the Producer of the Year in Classical music, Michelle Obama won Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording for The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times. Australian writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China Australian writer Yang Hengjun a suspended death, who was accused of espionage by China, was given a suspended death sentence by a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Sydney-based scholar Feng Chongyi said the court delivered a suspended death sentence that would convert to life imprisonment after two years. Watch | Indian startups raised $732 million across 107 deals in January 2024

Morning news brief: US mulls more strikes on Iran-backed groups; Grammy Awards 2024, and more

<p>A powerful 'atmospheric river' storm system is&nbsp;expected to bring&nbsp;life-threatening and damaging flooding, wind, snow and waves to California.&nbsp;Flood watches are issued from Saturday night&nbsp;to Tuesday (Feb 6) in central and southern California due to the upcoming heavy rain, raising concerns about urban flooding.</p>

<h2><strong>Extensive rainfall estimates</strong></h2>

<p>Forecasts suggest widespread rainfall ranging from three&nbsp;to six&nbsp;inches, with potential spikes of six&nbsp;to 12 inches in south and southwest-facing foothills and mountains. Peak intensity is expected on Sunday and Monday, with rates possibly reaching one&nbsp;inch per hour during the storm's zenith. The prolonged heavy rainfall, spanning three to six hours, heightens the threat of widespread freeway flooding, particularly in densely populated areas.</p>

<p>Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued a stern advisory, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel, especially on the anticipated peak day, Sunday. The city stands ready with a fully staffed response team and bolstered air resources. The National Weather Service said even conservative rainfall estimates hold potential for causing damaging flooding.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-us-senate-releases-text-of-border-security-package-that-will-unlock-vital-aid-for-kyiv-686972">Also read |&nbsp;US Senate releases text of deal that will unlock billions for Ukraine, Israel</a></p>

<h2><strong>Flash flooding alert</strong></h2>

<p>Santa Barbara County has also received evacuation orders due to an elevated risk of flash flooding, as reported by ABC News.&nbsp;Door-to-door evacuations in Santa Barbara are underway as Sheriff Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown underscores the storm's historic magnitude, anticipating significant rock and mudslide activity on mountain and canyon roadways.</p>

<p>The Ventura County Sheriff's Office has also mandated evacuations due to anticipated rain impacts. Formidable winds, predicted at 60-80 mph, bring threats of downed trees and widespread power outages. A high surf advisory coincides with waves potentially surging to 20 feet, escalating the risk of ocean-related incidents and rip currents.</p>

<p>In tandem with coastal threats, winter storm warnings have been issued for the Sierra Nevada mountains, forecasting heavy snowfall from Saturday evening to Tuesday. Accumulations of&nbsp; two to four&nbsp;feet, reaching five&nbsp;to six feet at higher elevations, pose travel disruptions and avalanche risks, potentially prompting road closures.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Chile: At least 112 killed as wildfires continue to rage</strong></p>

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<p>The storm is set to intensify Saturday evening, with peak rain and snowfall extending into Sunday morning. As Los Angeles hosts the Grammy Awards on Sunday afternoon, the storm's zenith may trigger flash flooding and wind-related disruptions. By Monday morning, the storm focus shifts to San Diego, bringing persistent rain throughout the day with a gradual tapering in intensity.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A powerful 'atmospheric river' storm system is expected to bring life-threatening and damaging flooding, wind, snow and waves to California. Flood watches are issued from Saturday night to Tuesday (Feb 6) in central and southern California due to the upcoming heavy rain, raising concerns about urban flooding.

A powerful 'atmospheric river' storm system is expected to bring life-threatening and damaging flooding, wind, snow and waves to California. Flood watches are issued from Saturday night to Tuesday (Feb 6) in central and southern California due to the upcoming heavy rain, raising concerns about urban flooding. Extensive rainfall estimates Forecasts suggest widespread rainfall ranging from three to six inches, with potential spikes of six to 12 inches in south and southwest-facing foothills and mountains. Peak intensity is expected on Sunday and Monday, with rates possibly reaching one inch per hour during the storm's zenith. The prolonged heavy rainfall, spanning three to six hours, heightens the threat of widespread freeway flooding, particularly in densely populated areas. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued a stern advisory, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel, especially on the anticipated peak day, Sunday. The city stands ready with a fully staffed response team and bolstered air resources. The National Weather Service said even conservative rainfall estimates hold potential for causing damaging flooding. Also read | US Senate releases text of deal that will unlock billions for Ukraine, Israel Flash flooding alert Santa Barbara County has also received evacuation orders due to an elevated risk of flash flooding, as reported by ABC News. Door-to-door evacuations in Santa Barbara are underway as Sheriff Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown underscores the storm's historic magnitude, anticipating significant rock and mudslide activity on mountain and canyon roadways. The Ventura County Sheriff's Office has also mandated evacuations due to anticipated rain impacts. Formidable winds, predicted at 60-80 mph, bring threats of downed trees and widespread power outages. A high surf advisory coincides with waves potentially surging to 20 feet, escalating the risk of ocean-related incidents and rip currents. In tandem with coastal threats, winter storm warnings have been issued for the Sierra Nevada mountains, forecasting heavy snowfall from Saturday evening to Tuesday. Accumulations of two to four feet, reaching five to six feet at higher elevations, pose travel disruptions and avalanche risks, potentially prompting road closures. Also watch | Chile: At least 112 killed as wildfires continue to rage The storm is set to intensify Saturday evening, with peak rain and snowfall extending into Sunday morning. As Los Angeles hosts the Grammy Awards on Sunday afternoon, the storm's zenith may trigger flash flooding and wind-related disruptions. By Monday morning, the storm focus shifts to San Diego, bringing persistent rain throughout the day with a gradual tapering in intensity. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Life-threatening storm approaches California, posing severe flooding and mudslide threat

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<p>Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun was given a suspended death sentence by China over alleged espionage. Talking about the verdict by&nbsp;a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5), Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong told reporters that Canberra was appalled at this outcome.</p>

<p>Reports said the death sentence may be commuted to life in jail after a period of two years.</p>

<p>"We will be communicating our response in the strongest terms," Foreign Minister Wong said. "I want to acknowledge the acute distress that Dr Yang and his family will be feeling today, coming after years of uncertainty," she added.</p>

<p>The foreign minister also said that China's ambassador to Australia would be summoned to hear Australia's objection.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Yang Hengjun?</strong></h2>

<p>A pro-democracy blogger, Yang, 58, is an Australian citizen born in China. Yang was working in New York before his arrest at China's Guangzhou airport in 2019.</p>

<p>He was accused of spying for a country China had not publicly identified and the details of the case against him were unknown. A family spokesperson in Sydney told Reuters news agency that Yang's family was "shocked and devastated by this news, which comes at the extreme end of worst expectations."</p>

<p>Beijing has not commented on the development yet.</p>

<p>Before his detention, Yang wrote about Chinese and US politics as a high-profile blogger and also wrote a series of spy novels.</p>

<p>In May 2021, a Beijing court heard his trial in secret and the case against him has never been publicly disclosed.</p>

<p>The writer denies working as a spy for Australia or the US.</p>

<h2><strong>Yang suffering from health issues</strong></h2>

<p>The suspended death sentence given to Yang has further strained the relations between Australia and China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In October last year, his two sons, who live in Australia, wrote to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during his visit to China, to urge Beijing to seek their father's release on medical grounds.</p>

<p>Yang was told in 2023 that he had a four-inch cyst on his kidney that may require surgery.</p>

<p>The writer's supporters have said that the he should be released on medical parole.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun was given a suspended death sentence by China over alleged espionage. Talking about the verdict by a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5), Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong told reporters that Canberra was appalled at this outcome.

Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun was given a suspended death sentence by China over alleged espionage. Talking about the verdict by a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5), Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong told reporters that Canberra was appalled at this outcome. Reports said the death sentence may be commuted to life in jail after a period of two years. "We will be communicating our response in the strongest terms," Foreign Minister Wong said. "I want to acknowledge the acute distress that Dr Yang and his family will be feeling today, coming after years of uncertainty," she added. The foreign minister also said that China's ambassador to Australia would be summoned to hear Australia's objection. Who is Yang Hengjun? A pro-democracy blogger, Yang, 58, is an Australian citizen born in China. Yang was working in New York before his arrest at China's Guangzhou airport in 2019. He was accused of spying for a country China had not publicly identified and the details of the case against him were unknown. A family spokesperson in Sydney told Reuters news agency that Yang's family was "shocked and devastated by this news, which comes at the extreme end of worst expectations." Beijing has not commented on the development yet. Before his detention, Yang wrote about Chinese and US politics as a high-profile blogger and also wrote a series of spy novels. In May 2021, a Beijing court heard his trial in secret and the case against him has never been publicly disclosed. The writer denies working as a spy for Australia or the US. Yang suffering from health issues The suspended death sentence given to Yang has further strained the relations between Australia and China. In October last year, his two sons, who live in Australia, wrote to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during his visit to China, to urge Beijing to seek their father's release on medical grounds. Yang was told in 2023 that he had a four-inch cyst on his kidney that may require surgery. The writer's supporters have said that the he should be released on medical parole. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian-Chinese writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China. Who is he?

Pakistan: 10 police personnel killed as militants attack police station in northwest Pakistan

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