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<p>The Ukrainian government has informed the White House that it plans to fire the country's top military commander overseeing the war against Russian occupation forces, two knowledgeable sources said on Friday.</p>

<p>The move to oust General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who has clashed with President Volodymyr Zelensky over a range of issues, follows a Ukrainian counteroffensive last year that failed to recover significant amounts of Russian-held territory.</p>

<p>A source close to Zelensky's office said the pair are locked in a dispute over a new military mobilization drive, with the president opposing Zaluzhnyi's proposal to call up 500,000 fresh troops.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-feud-between-zelensky-and-ukraine-army-chief-he-wants-to-sack-685971">Explained: The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine Army chief he wants to sack</a></strong></p>

<p>The source, however, added that the process for relieving Zaluzhnyi of his post as the commander in chief of&nbsp;Ukraine's armed forces was on hold for the time being as the sides work out their next steps.</p>

<p>It was unclear how long that process would take, added the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>A second knowledgeable source said that the White House did not express a position on the plan to replace Zaluzhnyi.</p>

<p>"I would emphasize that the White House response was that we did not support or object to their sovereign decision," said the source, who requested anonymity in order to discuss the issue.</p>

<p>"The White House expressed that it is up to&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;to make its own sovereign decisions about its personnel," the source continued.</p>

<p>The Washington Post was first to report that&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;had informed the White House of the plan to fire Zaluzhnyi.</p>

<p>US&nbsp;officials told&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;that they were not opposed to the firing of Zaluzhnyi, said the source close to the Ukrainian president's office.</p>

<p>"The US&nbsp;is okay with&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;firing him," said the source.</p>

<p>"Right now, both sides (the president and the general) have taken a pause in determining what the future will look like, and for now the status quo will remain until further notice," the source said.</p>

<p>The source said the frictions between Zelensky and Zaluzhnyi over mobilization involved the president's view that the military has enough personnel that could be used more efficiently.</p>

<p>"Zaluzhnyi insists on mobilising half a million men. Zelensky thinks that’s not necessary now," the source said.</p>

<p>Zaluzhnyi on Thursday published a column on the CNN website in which he wrote that the government had failed to mobilize enough troops.</p>

<p>Known as "the Iron General," Zaluzhnyi is extremely popular. His removal could hurt morale among Ukrainian troops battling to hold positions along more than 620 miles (1,000 km) of frontlines against a vast Russian force armed with large munitions stockpiles.</p>

<p>Ukrainian forces are experiencing shortages of critical ammunition. Supplies from the United States, the country's largest arms provider, have run down, and a dispute between the White House and some Republican lawmakers has stalled approval of a new aid package.</p>

<p>A flurry of Western and Ukrainian media reports said that Zaluzhnyi rejected Zelenskiy's request that he step aside this week.</p>

<p>The plan to replace Zaluzhnyi despite his popularity and ability as an inspiring commander may signal Kyiv's desire for a fresh approach to the conflict.</p>


The Ukrainian government has informed the White House that it plans to fire the country's top military commander overseeing the war against Russian occupation forces, two knowledgeable sources said on Friday.

The Ukrainian government has informed the White House that it plans to fire the country's top military commander overseeing the war against Russian occupation forces, two knowledgeable sources said on Friday. The move to oust General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who has clashed with President Volodymyr Zelensky over a range of issues, follows a Ukrainian counteroffensive last year that failed to recover significant amounts of Russian-held territory. A source close to Zelensky's office said the pair are locked in a dispute over a new military mobilization drive, with the president opposing Zaluzhnyi's proposal to call up 500,000 fresh troops. Also read | Explained: The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine Army chief he wants to sack The source, however, added that the process for relieving Zaluzhnyi of his post as the commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces was on hold for the time being as the sides work out their next steps. It was unclear how long that process would take, added the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. A second knowledgeable source said that the White House did not express a position on the plan to replace Zaluzhnyi. "I would emphasize that the White House response was that we did not support or object to their sovereign decision," said the source, who requested anonymity in order to discuss the issue. "The White House expressed that it is up to Ukraine to make its own sovereign decisions about its personnel," the source continued. The Washington Post was first to report that Ukraine had informed the White House of the plan to fire Zaluzhnyi. US officials told Ukraine that they were not opposed to the firing of Zaluzhnyi, said the source close to the Ukrainian president's office. "The US is okay with Ukraine firing him," said the source. "Right now, both sides (the president and the general) have taken a pause in determining what the future will look like, and for now the status quo will remain until further notice," the source said. The source said the frictions between Zelensky and Zaluzhnyi over mobilization involved the president's view that the military has enough personnel that could be used more efficiently. "Zaluzhnyi insists on mobilising half a million men. Zelensky thinks that’s not necessary now," the source said. Zaluzhnyi on Thursday published a column on the CNN website in which he wrote that the government had failed to mobilize enough troops. Known as "the Iron General," Zaluzhnyi is extremely popular. His removal could hurt morale among Ukrainian troops battling to hold positions along more than 620 miles (1,000 km) of frontlines against a vast Russian force armed with large munitions stockpiles. Ukrainian forces are experiencing shortages of critical ammunition. Supplies from the United States, the country's largest arms provider, have run down, and a dispute between the White House and some Republican lawmakers has stalled approval of a new aid package. A flurry of Western and Ukrainian media reports said that Zaluzhnyi rejected Zelenskiy's request that he step aside this week. The plan to replace Zaluzhnyi despite his popularity and ability as an inspiring commander may signal Kyiv's desire for a fresh approach to the conflict.

Ukraine tells White House of plan to fire top commander: Report

<p>United States District Judge Tanya Chutkan on Friday (February 2) formally postponed trial against former US president Donald Trump who faces charges of trying to overturn US Presidential Election 2020. The trial&nbsp;was widely expected&nbsp;to begin next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It originates from Trump's appeal claiming immunity from prosecution during the actions he took during his time in the office. The case in a Wshington federal court has been paused since December.</p>

<p>Judge Chutkan did not announce a new date for the trial to begin. She made a short entry in court document that said, "the court will set a new schedule if and when the mandate is returned."</p>

<p>The US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit has not ruled on Trump's immunity claim. It heard his side's argument on January 9.</p>

<p>Despite the legal troubles, Trump remains a presidential favourite among Republican voters and is a frontrunner in the intra-party race to win the nomination to contest 2024 US Presidential Election.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | South Carolina's Primary: Donald Trump inches closer to knock out Nikki Haley | US Elections 2024</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Prosecutor admits relationship with hired lawyer</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Trump camp appeared to get a boost on Friday when Fani Willis, the Georgia prosecutor behind election interference charges against the former president, admitted that she had a relationship with an attorney she hired on the case.</p>

<p>Trump and two co-defendants in the case have demanded Willis's disqualification citing her relationship with special prosecutor Nathan Wade. The former president has also said that charges against him in this case should be dismissed.</p>

<p>Willis has filed a 176-page document with Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee and has called Trump's request "meritless". She has urged rejection of the request.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fulton-county-da-fani-willis-acknowledges-personal-relationship-with-lead-prosecutor-in-trump-georgia-case-686519">Fulton County DA Fani Willis acknowledges personal relationship with lead prosecutor in Trump Georgia case</a></strong></p>

<p>Nathan Wade has submitted an attached affidavit admitting that he began personal relationship with Willis in 2022. Wade is currently going through a contentious divorce.</p>

<p>In his affidavit, he has said that Willis "received no funds or personal financial gain from my position as Special Prosecutor."</p>

<p>Former US president Donald Trump is facing federal charges for his action aimed at overturning result of the 2020 US Presidential Election. He is also in soup because of the attack his supporters mounted on US Capitol building on January 6, 2021.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States District Judge Tanya Chutkan on Friday (February 2) formally postponed trial against former US president Donald Trump who faces charges of trying to overturn US Presidential Election 2020.

United States District Judge Tanya Chutkan on Friday (February 2) formally postponed trial against former US president Donald Trump who faces charges of trying to overturn US Presidential Election 2020. The trial was widely expected to begin next month. It originates from Trump's appeal claiming immunity from prosecution during the actions he took during his time in the office. The case in a Wshington federal court has been paused since December. Judge Chutkan did not announce a new date for the trial to begin. She made a short entry in court document that said, "the court will set a new schedule if and when the mandate is returned." The US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit has not ruled on Trump's immunity claim. It heard his side's argument on January 9. Despite the legal troubles, Trump remains a presidential favourite among Republican voters and is a frontrunner in the intra-party race to win the nomination to contest 2024 US Presidential Election. Watch | South Carolina's Primary: Donald Trump inches closer to knock out Nikki Haley | US Elections 2024 × Prosecutor admits relationship with hired lawyer Meanwhile, the Trump camp appeared to get a boost on Friday when Fani Willis, the Georgia prosecutor behind election interference charges against the former president, admitted that she had a relationship with an attorney she hired on the case. Trump and two co-defendants in the case have demanded Willis's disqualification citing her relationship with special prosecutor Nathan Wade. The former president has also said that charges against him in this case should be dismissed. Willis has filed a 176-page document with Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee and has called Trump's request "meritless". She has urged rejection of the request. Also Read | Fulton County DA Fani Willis acknowledges personal relationship with lead prosecutor in Trump Georgia case Nathan Wade has submitted an attached affidavit admitting that he began personal relationship with Willis in 2022. Wade is currently going through a contentious divorce. In his affidavit, he has said that Willis "received no funds or personal financial gain from my position as Special Prosecutor." Former US president Donald Trump is facing federal charges for his action aimed at overturning result of the 2020 US Presidential Election. He is also in soup because of the attack his supporters mounted on US Capitol building on January 6, 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

Judge postpones Donald Trump's election subversion trial

Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party leader Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred Bharat Ratna. The announcement was made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself. Advani has been a key leading figure in the BJP for decades and has served as home minister of India. Watch to know more!

India: BJP veteran leader LK Advani to get Bharat Ratna

The UN top court has ruled that it will hear parts of Ukraine's case against Russia. The case argues that Moscow has pressed "Baseless allegations of Genocide" on Kyiv to justify its February 2022 invasion. Watch to know more!

ICJ to hear parts of Russia-Ukraine genocide case

<p>After US strikes&nbsp;hit Iran-based targets in Iraq and Syria, Baghdad on&nbsp;Saturday (Feb 3) raised strong objection&nbsp;over the retaliatory measures targeting armed groups on its soil.&nbsp;Iraq has characterised the action taken by the US, following the killing of three of its soldiers in a drone strike in Jordan, as a "violation of its sovereignty."</p>

<p>A spokesperson for Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani General Yehia Rasool said that the actions taken by Washington will have "disastrous consequences for the security and stability of Iraq and the region," AFP news agency reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, the United States asserted that it had informed the Iraqi government before conducting the Friday (Feb 2) strikes. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated, "We did inform the Iraqi government" in advance.</p>

<p>Moreover addressing concerns of a wider spillover of the situation in the Middle East after the strikes that took out dozens of pro-Iran fighters, the White House clarified that the United States is not seeking war with Iran. Kirby reiterated, "We're not looking for a war with Iran."</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Islamic Resistance in Iraq militants targetted al-Harir air base in northern Iraq. The base hosts US forces.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/red-sea-indian-navy-bolsters-presence-with-deployments-off-djibouti-gulf-of-aden-and-east-coast-of-somalia-686574">Red Sea: Indian Navy bolsters presence with deployments off Djibouti, Gulf of Aden, and East Coast of Somalia</a></p>

<p>This comes as the US military launched airstrikes in western Iraq and Syria in retaliation of&nbsp;a drone attack that resulted in the deaths of three American soldiers in Jordan. In comments after the US carried out the strikes, President Joe Biden said that the response has begun and would continue at "times and places" determined by the United States.</p>

<p>"The United States does not seek conflict in the Middle East or anywhere else in the world. But let all those who might seek to do us harm know this: If you harm an American, we will respond," Biden added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the airstrikes targeted Iran-linked groups, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, and involved hitting more than 85 targets with over 125 precision munitions.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-pro-iran-fighters-killed-in-likely-us-strikes-on-syria-686521">US carries out retaliatory strikes in Iraq and Syria against Iran-linked targets</a></p>

<p>The US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the targets included command and control centres, storage facilities for rockets, missiles, and drones, and intelligence facilities used against US and allies in the region.</p>

<p>It is worth noting that Iraq had previously asked for the departure of international troops following a US strike in Baghdad.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navy-rescues-another-iranian-flagged-vessel-off-the-east-coast-of-somalia-red-sea-crisis-686572">Indian Navy rescues another Iranian-flagged vessel off the east coast of Somalia | Red Sea Crisis</a></strong></p>

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<p>According to Kirby, the US Defence Department is currently assessing the damage caused by the strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Dignified transfer of three soldiers</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden attended a military ceremony for the dignified transfer of the three deceased soldiers who were killed at a remote base in Jordan.&nbsp;Tensions in the region have escalated, with more than 165 attacks on US and coalition troops in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan since mid-October.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After US strikes hit Iran-based targets in Iraq and Syria, Baghdad on Saturday (Feb 3) raised strong objection over the retaliatory measures targeting armed groups on its soil.

After US strikes hit Iran-based targets in Iraq and Syria, Baghdad on Saturday (Feb 3) raised strong objection over the retaliatory measures targeting armed groups on its soil. Iraq has characterised the action taken by the US, following the killing of three of its soldiers in a drone strike in Jordan, as a "violation of its sovereignty." A spokesperson for Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani General Yehia Rasool said that the actions taken by Washington will have "disastrous consequences for the security and stability of Iraq and the region," AFP news agency reported. On the other hand, the United States asserted that it had informed the Iraqi government before conducting the Friday (Feb 2) strikes. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated, "We did inform the Iraqi government" in advance. Moreover addressing concerns of a wider spillover of the situation in the Middle East after the strikes that took out dozens of pro-Iran fighters, the White House clarified that the United States is not seeking war with Iran. Kirby reiterated, "We're not looking for a war with Iran." Meanwhile, Islamic Resistance in Iraq militants targetted al-Harir air base in northern Iraq. The base hosts US forces. Also Read | Red Sea: Indian Navy bolsters presence with deployments off Djibouti, Gulf of Aden, and East Coast of Somalia This comes as the US military launched airstrikes in western Iraq and Syria in retaliation of a drone attack that resulted in the deaths of three American soldiers in Jordan. In comments after the US carried out the strikes, President Joe Biden said that the response has begun and would continue at "times and places" determined by the United States. "The United States does not seek conflict in the Middle East or anywhere else in the world. But let all those who might seek to do us harm know this: If you harm an American, we will respond," Biden added. Notably, the airstrikes targeted Iran-linked groups, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, and involved hitting more than 85 targets with over 125 precision munitions. Also Read | US carries out retaliatory strikes in Iraq and Syria against Iran-linked targets The US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the targets included command and control centres, storage facilities for rockets, missiles, and drones, and intelligence facilities used against US and allies in the region. It is worth noting that Iraq had previously asked for the departure of international troops following a US strike in Baghdad. Watch | Indian Navy rescues another Iranian-flagged vessel off the east coast of Somalia | Red Sea Crisis × According to Kirby, the US Defence Department is currently assessing the damage caused by the strikes. Dignified transfer of three soldiers US President Joe Biden attended a military ceremony for the dignified transfer of the three deceased soldiers who were killed at a remote base in Jordan. Tensions in the region have escalated, with more than 165 attacks on US and coalition troops in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan since mid-October. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraq says US airstrikes a breach of 'sovereignty', warns of 'drastic consequences'

The US launched an air assault on several sites in Iraq and Syria used by Iran-backed militias. The attacks come in retaliation to the Drone strike that killed three US service members in Jordan.

US strikes Syria & Iraq, Baghdad says 'Conflict Could Escalate'

<p>Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her primary prosecutor on the 2020 election case Nathan Wade, admitted in the court documents about having a "personal" relationship.</p>

<p>However, Willis vehemently refuted allegations that she benefited financially from employing Wade.</p>

<p>Wade's declaration is included in the filing from Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election. Wade states that in 2022 he and Willis</p>

<p>The court filing by Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election, comprises a declaration from Wade that claims he and Willis in 2022, “developed a personal relationship in addition to our professional association and friendship.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wade denied that he had "shared with or provided to" Willis any of his gains from the case.</p>

<p>“The District Attorney received no funds or personal financial gain from my position as Special Prosecutor,” he said.</p>

<p>Willis also stated their “personal relationship … has never involved direct or indirect financial benefit to District Attorney Willis.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-rescues-pakistani-iranian-crew-members-along-east-coast-of-somalia-686410">Indian Navy rescues Pakistani, Iranian crew members along east coast of Somalia</a></p>

<p>“While the allegations raised in the various motions are salacious and garnered the media attention they were designed to obtain, none provide this Court with any basis upon which to order the relief they seek,” the filing stated.</p>

<p>Willis stated in her writing that she has no financial or personal conflicts of interest and that defence lawyers did not establish the legal foundation for disqualification, that “constitutes a legal basis for disqualification,” and that she “has made no public statements that warrant disqualification or judicial inquiry.”</p>

<p>The motion also upheld Wade, stating that the attacks on his qualifications are “factually inaccurate, unsupported, and malicious, in addition to providing no basis whatsoever to dismiss the indictment or disqualify Special Prosecutor Wade.”</p>

<p>“Defendants do not point to any action taken by the District Attorney or any of her staff that has been outside the character of an officer of the law specially charged to oversee either the special purpose grand jury’s investigation or the prosecution of these Defendants,” the motion reads.</p>

<p>“Instead, the motions attempt to cobble together entirely unremarkable circumstances of Special Prosecutor Wade’s appointment with completely irrelevant allegations about his personal family life into a manufactured conflict of interest on the part of the District Attorney. The effort must fail.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her primary prosecutor on the 2020 election case Nathan Wade, admitted in the court documents about having a "personal" relationship.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her primary prosecutor on the 2020 election case Nathan Wade, admitted in the court documents about having a "personal" relationship. However, Willis vehemently refuted allegations that she benefited financially from employing Wade. Wade's declaration is included in the filing from Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election. Wade states that in 2022 he and Willis The court filing by Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election, comprises a declaration from Wade that claims he and Willis in 2022, “developed a personal relationship in addition to our professional association and friendship.” Wade denied that he had "shared with or provided to" Willis any of his gains from the case. “The District Attorney received no funds or personal financial gain from my position as Special Prosecutor,” he said. Willis also stated their “personal relationship … has never involved direct or indirect financial benefit to District Attorney Willis.” Also read: Indian Navy rescues Pakistani, Iranian crew members along east coast of Somalia “While the allegations raised in the various motions are salacious and garnered the media attention they were designed to obtain, none provide this Court with any basis upon which to order the relief they seek,” the filing stated. Willis stated in her writing that she has no financial or personal conflicts of interest and that defence lawyers did not establish the legal foundation for disqualification, that “constitutes a legal basis for disqualification,” and that she “has made no public statements that warrant disqualification or judicial inquiry.” The motion also upheld Wade, stating that the attacks on his qualifications are “factually inaccurate, unsupported, and malicious, in addition to providing no basis whatsoever to dismiss the indictment or disqualify Special Prosecutor Wade.” “Defendants do not point to any action taken by the District Attorney or any of her staff that has been outside the character of an officer of the law specially charged to oversee either the special purpose grand jury’s investigation or the prosecution of these Defendants,” the motion reads. “Instead, the motions attempt to cobble together entirely unremarkable circumstances of Special Prosecutor Wade’s appointment with completely irrelevant allegations about his personal family life into a manufactured conflict of interest on the part of the District Attorney. The effort must fail.” (With inputs from agencies)

Fulton County DA Fani Willis acknowledges personal relationship with lead prosecutor in Trump Georgia case

Immigration is a hot issue ahead of the 2024 US general elections just hours ahead of the first Democrat primary. President Joe Biden's administration seems to be in trouble yet again Saturday's alleged migrant attack on the New York City Police sparked a political uproar.

Migrants accused of assaulting NYPD officers released from custody

All eyes on South Carolina state today. Immigration remains a burning issue for South Carolina. Economy, 'threats to democracy' remain key issues for the voters. Republican Nikki Haley faces uphill struggle in her home turf. Biden to appear on South Carolina ballot. Watch to know more!

US Elections 2024: Donald Trump inches closer to knock out Nikki Haley | South Carolina's Primary

<p>Baghdad has reacted strongly after the United States carried out a retaliatory strike against Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria. It has said that the&nbsp;US attacks were&nbsp;"violation of Iraqi sovereignty".In other news, US Senate committee has approved sale of MQ-9 drones to India. Read this and more in the Morning News Brief.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-says-us-airstrikes-a-breach-of-sovereignty-warns-of-drastic-consequences-686533">Iraq says US strikes breach of 'sovereignty', warns of 'drastic consequences'</a></strong></p>

<p>Iraq reacts to US strikes: Tensions in the Middle East have escalated, with more than 165 attacks on US and coalition troops in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan since mid-October.</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409724-untitled-design-2024-02-03t055430934.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sale-of-mq-9-drones-to-india-cleared-by-us-senate-foreign-relations-committee-686536">Sale of MQ-9 drones to India cleared by US Senate Foreign Relations Committee</a></strong></p>

<p>Sale of MQ-9 drones to India: The deal still requires ratification by the US Congress to be fully approved for sale to India. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on Thursday (Feb 1) delivered the required certification notifying US Congress of the sale of 31 of these Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The deal involving MQ-9B drones comes at an estimated cost of $3.99 billion.</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409725-mq-9b-sky-drones-image.png?imwidth=256" /></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-court-dismisses-case-against-greta-thunberg-and-other-activists-over-london-protest-686515">UK court dismisses case against Greta Thunberg and other activists over London protest</a></strong></p>

<p>Greta Thunberg was charged with a public order offence after she was detained at a protest outside an annual gathering of energy industry figures in London.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409718-succession-2024-02-03t011240203.jpg?imwidth=640" /></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-retaliatory-attacks-in-iraq-after-militants-target-military-base-leaving-three-injured-673548">US carries out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after militants target military base leaving three injured</a></strong></p>

<p>At President Joe Biden's direction, the US military said it carried out retaliatory precision air strikes, likely killing 'a number of Kataib Hezbollah militants' and destroying multiple facilities used by the group</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/26/401625-iraw.jpeg?imwidth=640" /></p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow claims gaining control in areas of eastern Donetsk, Kharkiv</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Watch | South Carolina's Primary: Donald Trump inches closer to knock out Nikki Haley | US Elections 2024</strong></p>

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Baghdad has reacted strongly after the United States carried out a retaliatory strike against Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria. It has said that the US attacks were "violation of Iraqi sovereignty".

Baghdad has reacted strongly after the United States carried out a retaliatory strike against Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria. It has said that the US attacks were "violation of Iraqi sovereignty".In other news, US Senate committee has approved sale of MQ-9 drones to India. Read this and more in the Morning News Brief. Iraq says US strikes breach of 'sovereignty', warns of 'drastic consequences' Iraq reacts to US strikes: Tensions in the Middle East have escalated, with more than 165 attacks on US and coalition troops in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan since mid-October. Sale of MQ-9 drones to India cleared by US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Sale of MQ-9 drones to India: The deal still requires ratification by the US Congress to be fully approved for sale to India. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on Thursday (Feb 1) delivered the required certification notifying US Congress of the sale of 31 of these Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The deal involving MQ-9B drones comes at an estimated cost of $3.99 billion. UK court dismisses case against Greta Thunberg and other activists over London protest Greta Thunberg was charged with a public order offence after she was detained at a protest outside an annual gathering of energy industry figures in London. US carries out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after militants target military base leaving three injured At President Joe Biden's direction, the US military said it carried out retaliatory precision air strikes, likely killing 'a number of Kataib Hezbollah militants' and destroying multiple facilities used by the group Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow claims gaining control in areas of eastern Donetsk, Kharkiv × Watch | South Carolina's Primary: Donald Trump inches closer to knock out Nikki Haley | US Elections 2024 ×

Morning news brief: Iraq says US strikes violated 'sovereignty', US committee okays India drone sale; and more

Thousands of people filled Chinese traditional temple garden to see lanterns with the Lunar New Year celebrations. The Lunar year is the most important festival in China. Watch to know more!

China: Lunar New Year celebrations begin in Yuyuan

Baghdad condemns US strikes on Iran-backed targets in Syria, Iraq | West Asia Crisis

Russian drones hit energy infrastructure in Ukraine. Russian Defence Minister claims making fresh gains in Ukraine. About 40,000 people are without power in Ukraine. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war | Moscow unleashes 24 drones on Ukraine

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv's case of Moscow violating genocide convention moves to top court

Supporters of former South African President Jacob Zuma carried out a series of rallies and motorcades in the northern part of Durban. The rallies in support come just days after the ruling party the African National Congress suspended Zuma for extending his support to a new political party ahead of the 2024 national elections.

South Africa: Jacob Zuma's supporters take to streets, carry out rallies in Durban

A mafia boss from one of Italy's most violent mafias who escaped from a maximum security prison last year has been captured in France, authorities in both countries said on Friday. Marco Raduano, described as "dangerous" on Europol's list of Europe's most wanted criminals, was detained on the French island of Corsica.

Europe's most wanted Italian mafia boss recaptured in Corsica Island, France

North Korea fired multiple cruise missiles Friday, Seoul's military said, continuing a fresh streak of weapons testing as Kim Jong Un's regime ramps up what it calls "war preparations".

North Korea fires more cruise missiles into the West Sea

The US is actively pursuing a second hostage deal as well as humanitarian assistance to Gaza. In the latest US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation with his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan about the Israel-Hamas War.

Israel-Hamas war | US pushes for ceasefire agreement in Gaza

Russia-Ukraine war | Russia hits back after Kyiv sunk warship

Durban: Jacob Zuma addresses rally in ANC's bastion

US strikes Iran-backed targets in Iraq and Syria

Thousands of people fill the Chinese traditional Temple Garden to see lanterns with the Lunar New Year celebrations. The Lunar New Year is the most important Festival in China as it is the only holiday in the year that most people travel back home to spend time with family and relatives.

Lunar New Year celebrations in China

<p>A UK court on Friday (Feb 2) cleared climate activist Greta Thunberg, along with four other protesters, of a public order offence over staging a demonstration outside an oil and gas conference in 2023.</p>

<p>The London court judge denounced the conditions imposed by police at the time Thunberg was arrested calling them "unlawful" and said that she had no case to answer.</p>

<p>District Judge John Law, dismissing the cases against the prominent Swedish campaigner and four other activists arrested, ruled that police stationed in London at the time of the environmental protest in October 2023, attempted to impose "unlawful" conditions before officers arrested dozens of protesters.</p>

<p>"The prosecution evidence is insufficient for any reasonable court to properly convict and I exercise my discretion to acquit all five defendants," Law said, to applause and cheers from a packed public gallery.</p>

<p>Addressing the five defendants, he added: "You are all found not guilty of this offence."</p>

<p>Thunberg was charged with a public order offence after she was detained at a protest outside an annual gathering of energy industry figures in London.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In November last year, she had pleaded not guilty to violating a public order law alongside two demonstrators from the Fossil Free London (FFL) campaign group and two Greenpeace activists.</p>

<p>The 21-year-old campaigner and other defendants had faced a maximum fine of £2,500 ($3,177) if convicted.</p>

<p>Her lawyer, Raj Chada, said the case against them had been "rightly dismissed", arguing that the police stipulations "disproportionately interfered with our client's rights to free speech".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added: "The government should stop prosecuting peaceful protesters and instead find ways to tackle the climate crisis."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-blaze-gas-truck-explosion-leaves-three-dead-in-kenyas-nairobi-injures-nearly-300-686459">Massive gas truck explosion leaves three dead in Kenya's Nairobi, injures nearly 300</a></p>

<h2><strong>Thunberg charged by UK police after being held over climate protest</strong></h2>

<p>Thunberg was charged with "failing to comply with a condition" by the UK police levied under Britain's Public Order Act that dealt with public assemblies and was released on bail.</p>

<p>London police said they imposed "conditions to prevent disruption to the public" after officers arrived at the protest site, which were then breached and further prompted the arrests.</p>

<p>"The protesters were asked to move from the road onto the pavement, which would enable them to continue with their demonstration without breaching the conditions," a police statement had said in October.</p>

<p>Several hundred protestors had gathered outside the InterContinental London Park Lane hotel during the "Oily Money Out" demonstration, organised by pressure groups Fossil Free London and Greenpeace, blocking all entrances to the venue.</p>

<p>Banging drums, the protesters chanted, "Stop the oil, stop the gas." The protesters argued that most industry profit is ploughed back into dirty energy that worsens climate change.</p>

<p>"Oil companies have racked up billions upon billions of profit, breaking records across the board last year. Oily CEOs took home multi-million-pound pay cheques," Fossil Free London said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The overwhelming majority of this money is going straight back into fossil fuel expansion, not the green energy they claim to support," the statement added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A UK court on Friday (Feb 2) cleared climate activist Greta Thunberg, along with four other protesters, of a public order offence over staging a demonstration outside an oil and gas conference in 2023.

A UK court on Friday (Feb 2) cleared climate activist Greta Thunberg, along with four other protesters, of a public order offence over staging a demonstration outside an oil and gas conference in 2023. The London court judge denounced the conditions imposed by police at the time Thunberg was arrested calling them "unlawful" and said that she had no case to answer. District Judge John Law, dismissing the cases against the prominent Swedish campaigner and four other activists arrested, ruled that police stationed in London at the time of the environmental protest in October 2023, attempted to impose "unlawful" conditions before officers arrested dozens of protesters. "The prosecution evidence is insufficient for any reasonable court to properly convict and I exercise my discretion to acquit all five defendants," Law said, to applause and cheers from a packed public gallery. Addressing the five defendants, he added: "You are all found not guilty of this offence." Thunberg was charged with a public order offence after she was detained at a protest outside an annual gathering of energy industry figures in London. In November last year, she had pleaded not guilty to violating a public order law alongside two demonstrators from the Fossil Free London (FFL) campaign group and two Greenpeace activists. The 21-year-old campaigner and other defendants had faced a maximum fine of £2,500 ($3,177) if convicted. Her lawyer, Raj Chada, said the case against them had been "rightly dismissed", arguing that the police stipulations "disproportionately interfered with our client's rights to free speech". He added: "The government should stop prosecuting peaceful protesters and instead find ways to tackle the climate crisis." Also read: Massive gas truck explosion leaves three dead in Kenya's Nairobi, injures nearly 300 Thunberg charged by UK police after being held over climate protest Thunberg was charged with "failing to comply with a condition" by the UK police levied under Britain's Public Order Act that dealt with public assemblies and was released on bail. London police said they imposed "conditions to prevent disruption to the public" after officers arrived at the protest site, which were then breached and further prompted the arrests. "The protesters were asked to move from the road onto the pavement, which would enable them to continue with their demonstration without breaching the conditions," a police statement had said in October. Several hundred protestors had gathered outside the InterContinental London Park Lane hotel during the "Oily Money Out" demonstration, organised by pressure groups Fossil Free London and Greenpeace, blocking all entrances to the venue. Banging drums, the protesters chanted, "Stop the oil, stop the gas." The protesters argued that most industry profit is ploughed back into dirty energy that worsens climate change. "Oil companies have racked up billions upon billions of profit, breaking records across the board last year. Oily CEOs took home multi-million-pound pay cheques," Fossil Free London said in a statement. "The overwhelming majority of this money is going straight back into fossil fuel expansion, not the green energy they claim to support," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK court dismisses case against Greta Thunberg and other activists over London protest

<p>The member nations of the European Union (EU) on Friday (Feb 2) unanimously agreed to the provisions of the bloc’s Artificial Intelligence Act, marking a significant step towards formally regulating the fast-evolving AI space. The nations reached the deal overcoming reservations from some nations, especially from France, Germany, Austria and Italy. The approval came after tedious negotiations between representatives of the Council, members of the European Parliament and European Commission officials.</p>

<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act?</strong></h2>

<p>The act revolves around regulating the advanced, rapidly evolving space of Artificial Intelligence. It burdens the AI companies with obligations related to privacy, transparency and stress-testing. The act aims at banning the use of AI in certain areas, mostly on use cases considered high-risk.</p>

<p>However, the strict provisions have also stoked fears among observers regarding the slowing down of AI innovation in the EU nations, which could give rival firms in the US and China an edge.</p>

<p>With the AI Act, the EU is one of the first blocs to lay down AI regulations, even as G7 and OECD fail to reach consensus, with most of them resorting to following voluntary guidelines and codes of practice.</p>

<h2><strong>Apprehensions raised by Germany, France and others</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the bloc’s top economies, including Germany and France, had hinted that they could throw a spanner in the works of the AI Act. Austria had reservations regarding data protection provisions while Germany and France feared the burden of regulation could weigh down the bloc’s budding AI champions, such as France’s Mistral and Germany’s Aleph Alpha.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;EU achieves agreement on landmark AI rules, becomes first major power to enact AI laws</strong></p>

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<p>Making things worse, even the EU parliament was debating provisions regarding facial recognition rules in the AI Act, with some hawks like MEP Svenja Hahn threatening to derail the talks.</p>

<h2><strong>How were the apprehensions addressed?</strong></h2>

<p>Thanks to the EU’s charm offensive, the concerns were addressed by announcing the creation of the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Office — a body tasked with enforcing the AI Act.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw2pYnsNK01NxuC6fhntFX3u" data-ved="2ahUKEwib6Pzhho2EAxUc-jgGHTjFD6MQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/european-research-flags-ai-chatbots-for-providing-false-answers-particularly-on-elections-670063" jsname="YKoRaf">European research flags AI chatbots for providing false answers, particularly on elections</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The EU Commission is believed to have promised Germany, France and Austria to address all of their concerns before making formal declarations.</p>

<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>The act would require approval from EU parliament, and a plenary vote is expected in April.<br />
Some hawkish lawmakers might still try to derail the process.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The member nations of the European Union (EU) on Friday (Feb 2) unanimously agreed to the provisions of the bloc’s Artificial Intelligence Act, marking a significant step towards formally regulating the fast-evolving AI space.

The member nations of the European Union (EU) on Friday (Feb 2) unanimously agreed to the provisions of the bloc’s Artificial Intelligence Act, marking a significant step towards formally regulating the fast-evolving AI space. The nations reached the deal overcoming reservations from some nations, especially from France, Germany, Austria and Italy. The approval came after tedious negotiations between representatives of the Council, members of the European Parliament and European Commission officials. What is EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act? The act revolves around regulating the advanced, rapidly evolving space of Artificial Intelligence. It burdens the AI companies with obligations related to privacy, transparency and stress-testing. The act aims at banning the use of AI in certain areas, mostly on use cases considered high-risk. However, the strict provisions have also stoked fears among observers regarding the slowing down of AI innovation in the EU nations, which could give rival firms in the US and China an edge. With the AI Act, the EU is one of the first blocs to lay down AI regulations, even as G7 and OECD fail to reach consensus, with most of them resorting to following voluntary guidelines and codes of practice. Apprehensions raised by Germany, France and others Earlier, the bloc’s top economies, including Germany and France, had hinted that they could throw a spanner in the works of the AI Act. Austria had reservations regarding data protection provisions while Germany and France feared the burden of regulation could weigh down the bloc’s budding AI champions, such as France’s Mistral and Germany’s Aleph Alpha. Watch: EU achieves agreement on landmark AI rules, becomes first major power to enact AI laws × Making things worse, even the EU parliament was debating provisions regarding facial recognition rules in the AI Act, with some hawks like MEP Svenja Hahn threatening to derail the talks. How were the apprehensions addressed? Thanks to the EU’s charm offensive, the concerns were addressed by announcing the creation of the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Office — a body tasked with enforcing the AI Act. Also read: European research flags AI chatbots for providing false answers, particularly on elections The EU Commission is believed to have promised Germany, France and Austria to address all of their concerns before making formal declarations. What next? The act would require approval from EU parliament, and a plenary vote is expected in April. Some hawkish lawmakers might still try to derail the process. (With inputs from agencies)

EU members reach landmark deal on Artificial Intelligence Act even as Paris, Berlin remain skeptical

<p>The US Supreme Court on Friday declined to block the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the prestigious Army school, from considering race as a factor in admissions decisions while a legal battle over the practice proceeds in lower courts.<br />
The justices denied a request from Students for Fair Admissions, a group founded by affirmative action opponent Edward Blum, after lower courts refused to halt the practice.</p>

<p>The group was behind a successful Supreme Court challenge to race-conscious collegiate admissions policies in cases involving Harvard University and the University of North Carolina.</p>

<p>No justice publicly dissented from the court's brief order.</p>

<p>"The record before this court is underdeveloped, and this order should not be construed as expressing any view on the merits of the constitutional question," the decision stated.</p>

<p>The lawsuit said West Point's admissions practices discriminated against white applicants and violated the U.S. Constitution's principle of equal protection.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-postpones-election-interference-trial-against-donald-trump-686571">Judge postpones election interference trial against Donald Trump</a></p>

<p>West Point, located in New York state, educates cadets for commissioning into the U.S. Army, counting among its graduates former U.S. Presidents Dwight Eisenhower and Ulysses Grant and current Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.</p>

<p>Students for Fair Admissions, a Virginia-based nonprofit, had asked the Supreme Court to decide the request by the academy's application deadline for the class of 2028, which was on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-says-us-airstrikes-a-breach-of-sovereignty-warns-of-drastic-consequences-686533">Iraq says US airstrikes a breach of 'sovereignty', warns of 'drastic consequences'</a></p>

<p>The US Justice Department told the Supreme court in a filing that it strengthens U.S. national security to have a more diverse corps of officers, many of whom begin their Army careers at West Point. West Point graduates comprise roughly one in five Army officers, one in three generals and nearly half of current four-star generals, the department said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'More legitimate'</strong></h2>

<p>"Diversity, including racial and ethnic diversity, makes a more effective fighting force - more cohesive and lethal, better able to attract and retain top talent, and more legitimate in the eyes of the nation and the world," the department said in its brief.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-farmer-protests-called-off-after-french-government-announces-concessions-686597">France: Farmer protests called off after French government announces concessions</a></strong></p>

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<p>Many US colleges and universities, including the nation's military service academies, used affirmative action policies that considered race as one of numerous factors in admissions to increase their enrollment of Black, Hispanic and certain other minority students.</p>
</section>

<p>"It is disappointing that the young men and women who apply to West Point for the foreseeable future will have their race used as a factor to admit or reject them," Blum, who for years has pursued lawsuits challenging affirmative action policies, said of Friday's decision.</p>

<p>West Point and the Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.<br />
U.S. District Judge Philip Halpern in White Plains, New York, rejected a request by Blum's group for a preliminary injunction on Jan. 3 and rebuffed its request for an emergency injunction the next day. The group appealed Halpern's decisions to the New York-based 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which denied the group's emergency request on Monday.</p>

<p>The merits of the case are still being contested before Halpern, who has issued a preliminary finding in favor of West Point but not a final decision.</p>

<p>Blum's group sued last September, challenging West Point's admissions process on behalf of two Students for Fair Admissions members - a high school student applying for the first time and a first-year college student applying for the second time. Both of the male students, whose names were withheld due to what they said was a fear of reprisal by West Point, "are fully qualified but white," the group said.</p>

<p>In invalidating admissions policies at Harvard and UNC last year as a violation of the Constitution's equal protection protections, the Supreme Court did not address race in admissions at military academies.<br />
President Joe Biden's administration, in defending the race-conscious admissions policies used by the military service academies, said that senior military leaders long have recognized that a scarcity of minority officers can create distrust within the armed forces.</p>

<p>"The Army learned that lesson the hard way when decades of unaddressed racial tension and disparities fundamentally threatened the military's ability to protect national security during the Vietnam (war) era," the Justice Department wrote in its brief, noting that the Army was "plagued by accusations that white officers were using minority servicemembers as 'cannon fodder.'"</p>

<p>The other military service academies, opens new tab are: the Naval Academy in Maryland, the Air Force Academy in Colorado, the Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut and the Merchant Marine Academy in New York.</p>

<p>Students for Fair Admissions has also sued the Naval Academy over its race-conscious admissions policy. A federal judge in Maryland has scheduled the case to go trial in September.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The US Supreme Court on Friday declined to block the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the prestigious Army school, from considering race as a factor in admissions decisions while a legal battle over the practice proceeds in lower courts.

The US Supreme Court on Friday declined to block the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the prestigious Army school, from considering race as a factor in admissions decisions while a legal battle over the practice proceeds in lower courts. The justices denied a request from Students for Fair Admissions, a group founded by affirmative action opponent Edward Blum, after lower courts refused to halt the practice. The group was behind a successful Supreme Court challenge to race-conscious collegiate admissions policies in cases involving Harvard University and the University of North Carolina. No justice publicly dissented from the court's brief order. "The record before this court is underdeveloped, and this order should not be construed as expressing any view on the merits of the constitutional question," the decision stated. The lawsuit said West Point's admissions practices discriminated against white applicants and violated the U.S. Constitution's principle of equal protection. Also Read | Judge postpones election interference trial against Donald Trump West Point, located in New York state, educates cadets for commissioning into the U.S. Army, counting among its graduates former U.S. Presidents Dwight Eisenhower and Ulysses Grant and current Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. Students for Fair Admissions, a Virginia-based nonprofit, had asked the Supreme Court to decide the request by the academy's application deadline for the class of 2028, which was on Wednesday. Also Read | Iraq says US airstrikes a breach of 'sovereignty', warns of 'drastic consequences' The US Justice Department told the Supreme court in a filing that it strengthens U.S. national security to have a more diverse corps of officers, many of whom begin their Army careers at West Point. West Point graduates comprise roughly one in five Army officers, one in three generals and nearly half of current four-star generals, the department said. 'More legitimate' "Diversity, including racial and ethnic diversity, makes a more effective fighting force - more cohesive and lethal, better able to attract and retain top talent, and more legitimate in the eyes of the nation and the world," the department said in its brief. Watch | France: Farmer protests called off after French government announces concessions × Many US colleges and universities, including the nation's military service academies, used affirmative action policies that considered race as one of numerous factors in admissions to increase their enrollment of Black, Hispanic and certain other minority students. "It is disappointing that the young men and women who apply to West Point for the foreseeable future will have their race used as a factor to admit or reject them," Blum, who for years has pursued lawsuits challenging affirmative action policies, said of Friday's decision. West Point and the Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. U.S. District Judge Philip Halpern in White Plains, New York, rejected a request by Blum's group for a preliminary injunction on Jan. 3 and rebuffed its request for an emergency injunction the next day. The group appealed Halpern's decisions to the New York-based 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which denied the group's emergency request on Monday. The merits of the case are still being contested before Halpern, who has issued a preliminary finding in favor of West Point but not a final decision. Blum's group sued last September, challenging West Point's admissions process on behalf of two Students for Fair Admissions members - a high school student applying for the first time and a first-year college student applying for the second time. Both of the male students, whose names were withheld due to what they said was a fear of reprisal by West Point, "are fully qualified but white," the group said. In invalidating admissions policies at Harvard and UNC last year as a violation of the Constitution's equal protection protections, the Supreme Court did not address race in admissions at military academies. President Joe Biden's administration, in defending the race-conscious admissions policies used by the military service academies, said that senior military leaders long have recognized that a scarcity of minority officers can create distrust within the armed forces. "The Army learned that lesson the hard way when decades of unaddressed racial tension and disparities fundamentally threatened the military's ability to protect national security during the Vietnam (war) era," the Justice Department wrote in its brief, noting that the Army was "plagued by accusations that white officers were using minority servicemembers as 'cannon fodder.'" The other military service academies, opens new tab are: the Naval Academy in Maryland, the Air Force Academy in Colorado, the Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut and the Merchant Marine Academy in New York. Students for Fair Admissions has also sued the Naval Academy over its race-conscious admissions policy. A federal judge in Maryland has scheduled the case to go trial in September.

US Supreme Court allows West Point military academy to continue considering race in admissions

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidQTPsuMcaHo9n" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The United Nations said&nbsp;on Friday (Feb 2) that at least 17,000 children in the war-torn Gaza Strip have been left unaccompanied or separated from their parents. Addressing a press conference, UNICEF spokesperson Jonathan Crickx said, "This figure corresponds to one per cent of the overall displaced population -- 1.7 million people." Each one "is a child who is coming to terms with a horrible new reality."</p>

<p>He added that tracing who the children were was proving "extremely difficult", as sometimes they were brought to a hospital where they may be wounded or in shock, and they couldn't even say their names. The UNICEF spokesperson said that during conflicts, it was common for extended families to take care of children who lost their parents.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-un-agency-for-palestinian-refugees-says-it-can-shut-down-by-feb-end-if-funding-doesnt-resum-686067">Israel-Hamas war: UNRWA says it can shut down by Feb end if funding doesn't resume</a></strong></p>

<p>However, due to&nbsp;lack of necessities such as food, water or shelter, extended families were themselves distressed "and faced challenges to immediately take care of another child as they themselves are struggling to cater for their own children and family."</p>

<h2><strong>'Over a million children in need of mental health'</strong></h2>

<p>Jonathan Crickx also told reporters on Friday that more than a million children in Gaza needed mental health and psycho-social support. Before the Israel-Hamas war started in Oct last year, UNICEF estimated that more than 500,000 children in the Palestinian territory needed such help.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Israel-Hamas war has entered its second month. Children have become the pawns and the victims on both sides of the conflict.<br />
<br />
So, who is to be blamed?<br />
<br />
Watch Dark World with <a href="https://twitter.com/B_Torg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@b_torg</a> to know more.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelHamaswar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IsraelHamaswar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChildreninIsraelHamaswar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChildreninIsraelHamaswar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNICEF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNICEF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hamas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hamas</a> <a href="https://t.co/65Ixp5PwbW">pic.twitter.com/65Ixp5PwbW</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1734022689960968443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"They present symptoms like extremely high levels of persistent anxiety, loss of appetite, they can’t sleep, they have emotional outbursts or panic every time they hear the bombings," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Children don't have anything to do with this conflict. Yet they are suffering like no child should ever suffer," the UNICEF spokesperson added and called for a ceasefire so that UNICEF could conduct a proper count of children who are unaccompanied or separated, trace relatives, and deliver mental health support.</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas gives initial support to Gaza truce plan: Qatar</strong></h2>

<p>On Thursday, Qatar's foreign ministry said that Hamas gave initial support to a proposal for the cessation of fighting in Gaza and the release of hostages. Last Sunday, US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators met with Israeli intelligence officials in Paris where they proposed a six-week pause in the fighting and a hostage-prisoner exchange for Hamas to review.</p>

<p>However, a source close to Hamas told the news agency AFP that there was still no consensus on the proposal. "There is no agreement on the framework of the agreement yet... and the Qatari statement is rushed and not true," the source said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations said on Friday (Feb 2) that at least 17,000 children in the war-torn Gaza Strip have been left unaccompanied or separated from their parents. Addressing a press conference, UNICEF spokesperson Jonathan Crickx said, "This figure corresponds to one per cent of the overall displaced population -- 1.

The United Nations said on Friday (Feb 2) that at least 17,000 children in the war-torn Gaza Strip have been left unaccompanied or separated from their parents. Addressing a press conference, UNICEF spokesperson Jonathan Crickx said, "This figure corresponds to one per cent of the overall displaced population -- 1.7 million people." Each one "is a child who is coming to terms with a horrible new reality." He added that tracing who the children were was proving "extremely difficult", as sometimes they were brought to a hospital where they may be wounded or in shock, and they couldn't even say their names. The UNICEF spokesperson said that during conflicts, it was common for extended families to take care of children who lost their parents. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UNRWA says it can shut down by Feb end if funding doesn't resume However, due to lack of necessities such as food, water or shelter, extended families were themselves distressed "and faced challenges to immediately take care of another child as they themselves are struggling to cater for their own children and family." 'Over a million children in need of mental health' Jonathan Crickx also told reporters on Friday that more than a million children in Gaza needed mental health and psycho-social support. Before the Israel-Hamas war started in Oct last year, UNICEF estimated that more than 500,000 children in the Palestinian territory needed such help. The Israel-Hamas war has entered its second month. Children have become the pawns and the victims on both sides of the conflict. So, who is to be blamed? Watch Dark World with @b_torg to know more.#IsraelHamaswar #ChildreninIsraelHamaswar #UNICEF #Hamas pic.twitter.com/65Ixp5PwbW — WION (@WIONews) December 11, 2023 × "They present symptoms like extremely high levels of persistent anxiety, loss of appetite, they can’t sleep, they have emotional outbursts or panic every time they hear the bombings," he said. "Children don't have anything to do with this conflict. Yet they are suffering like no child should ever suffer," the UNICEF spokesperson added and called for a ceasefire so that UNICEF could conduct a proper count of children who are unaccompanied or separated, trace relatives, and deliver mental health support. Hamas gives initial support to Gaza truce plan: Qatar On Thursday, Qatar's foreign ministry said that Hamas gave initial support to a proposal for the cessation of fighting in Gaza and the release of hostages. Last Sunday, US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators met with Israeli intelligence officials in Paris where they proposed a six-week pause in the fighting and a hostage-prisoner exchange for Hamas to review. However, a source close to Hamas told the news agency AFP that there was still no consensus on the proposal. "There is no agreement on the framework of the agreement yet... and the Qatari statement is rushed and not true," the source said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: At least 17,000 children in Gaza left unaccompanied or separated from parents, says UN

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