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In a horrifying incident out of the US state of Georgia, a 25-year-old Indian student identified as Vivek Saini was mercilessly beaten to death with a hammer by a homeless man whom he had reportedly been feeding and sheltering, according to local media reports citing the police.&nbsp;

<h2>What do we know about the incident?</h2>

The attack, which took place in the United States city of Lithonia, was caught on camera where the assailant later identified as 53-year-old Julian Faulkner was seen beating Saini to death with a hammer.&nbsp;

Prior to the attack, employees at the Chevron Food Mart told police that for nearly two days, they had been allowing a homeless man to come in and out of their store.&nbsp;

One of the employees, who wished to be unidentified, told WSB-TV that Faulkner would ask for coke and chips and they would give him “everything including the water".

They added, “He asked if I could get a blanket. I said we don’t have blankets so I gave him a jacket. He was walking in and out asking him for cigarettes, water and everything.”&nbsp;

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The employee also told the media outlet that the 53-year-old would sit in the store “all the time” and they never asked him to leave since it was so cold. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

However, after a couple of days, Saini, who reportedly worked part-time at the store as a clerk, on Tuesday (Jan 16), just after midnight, asked Faulkner to leave, or he would call the police. As the Indian student was preparing to leave, police said he was attacked by the 53-year-old.&nbsp;

“He hit him from the back then he kept on hitting for almost 50 times on the face on the head,” the employee told the news channel. The police found Faulkner standing over Saini’s lifeless body. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Can’t even describe what I’m feeling. We were always trying to be helpful and we never expected this sort of thing would happen,” the employee told WSB-TV.

So far, the investigators have found that Faulkner reportedly beat the victim with a hammer, causing his death. Another store clerk who witnessed the attack helped the investigators by providing them with the camera footage.&nbsp;

<h2>About Vivek Saini</h2>

Vivek Saini, a 25-year-old whose family hails from the Indian state of Haryana had gone to the US two years ago and had recently earned an MBA degree.

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Saini’s parents Gurjeet Singh and Lalita Saini are devastated and currently unable to discuss the tragic incident.&nbsp;

<h2>Attacker charged</h2>

Faulkner was arrested on the spot and remains in DeKalb County Jail. He has since been charged with felony murder and interference with government property.

Amid the ongoing investigation, it was also revealed that the officers who arrested the 53-year-old also found two knives and another hammer on him.

<h2>Indian consulate in Atlanta condemns attack</h2>

After the incident&nbsp;made headlines across India, the Consulate General of India in Atlanta, released a statement condemning the attack in the "strongest terms" and said it is in touch with the victim's family.&nbsp;

"We are deeply anguished by the terrifying, brutal, &amp; heinous incident that led to the death of (Indian)&nbsp;National/student Mr Vivek Saini &amp; condemns attack in the strongest terms. It is understood that the US authorities have arrested the accused &amp; are investigating the case," said the Indian&nbsp;consulate in Atlanta, in a post on X.&nbsp;

It added, "The Consulate got in touch with the family of Mr Saini immediately after the incident, provided all consular assistance in sending the mortal remains back to India, and remains in touch with the family."

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In a horrifying incident out of the US state of Georgia, a 25-year-old Indian student identified as Vivek Saini was mercilessly beaten to death with a hammer by a homeless man whom he had reportedly been feeding and sheltering, according to local media reports citing the police.

In a horrifying incident out of the US state of Georgia, a 25-year-old Indian student identified as Vivek Saini was mercilessly beaten to death with a hammer by a homeless man whom he had reportedly been feeding and sheltering, according to local media reports citing the police. What do we know about the incident? The attack, which took place in the United States city of Lithonia, was caught on camera where the assailant later identified as 53-year-old Julian Faulkner was seen beating Saini to death with a hammer. Prior to the attack, employees at the Chevron Food Mart told police that for nearly two days, they had been allowing a homeless man to come in and out of their store. One of the employees, who wished to be unidentified, told WSB-TV that Faulkner would ask for coke and chips and they would give him “everything including the water". They added, “He asked if I could get a blanket. I said we don’t have blankets so I gave him a jacket. He was walking in and out asking him for cigarettes, water and everything.” ALSO READ | US cop, who joked about Indian student's death, says comments taken out of context The employee also told the media outlet that the 53-year-old would sit in the store “all the time” and they never asked him to leave since it was so cold. However, after a couple of days, Saini, who reportedly worked part-time at the store as a clerk, on Tuesday (Jan 16), just after midnight, asked Faulkner to leave, or he would call the police. As the Indian student was preparing to leave, police said he was attacked by the 53-year-old. “He hit him from the back then he kept on hitting for almost 50 times on the face on the head,” the employee told the news channel. The police found Faulkner standing over Saini’s lifeless body. He was pronounced dead at the scene. “Can’t even describe what I’m feeling. We were always trying to be helpful and we never expected this sort of thing would happen,” the employee told WSB-TV. So far, the investigators have found that Faulkner reportedly beat the victim with a hammer, causing his death. Another store clerk who witnessed the attack helped the investigators by providing them with the camera footage. About Vivek Saini Vivek Saini, a 25-year-old whose family hails from the Indian state of Haryana had gone to the US two years ago and had recently earned an MBA degree. ALSO READ | UK: Indian student killed, another woman injured after double stabbing incident in London, three arrested Saini’s parents Gurjeet Singh and Lalita Saini are devastated and currently unable to discuss the tragic incident. Attacker charged Faulkner was arrested on the spot and remains in DeKalb County Jail. He has since been charged with felony murder and interference with government property. Amid the ongoing investigation, it was also revealed that the officers who arrested the 53-year-old also found two knives and another hammer on him. Indian consulate in Atlanta condemns attack After the incident made headlines across India, the Consulate General of India in Atlanta, released a statement condemning the attack in the "strongest terms" and said it is in touch with the victim's family. "We are deeply anguished by the terrifying, brutal, & heinous incident that led to the death of (Indian) National/student Mr Vivek Saini & condemns attack in the strongest terms. It is understood that the US authorities have arrested the accused & are investigating the case," said the Indian consulate in Atlanta, in a post on X. It added, "The Consulate got in touch with the family of Mr Saini immediately after the incident, provided all consular assistance in sending the mortal remains back to India, and remains in touch with the family." (With inputs from agencies)

US: Indian student beaten to death by homeless man after feeding and sheltering him for days

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A prescription drug commonly called "gas station heroin" is causing concern in the United States with the Food and Drug Administration putting fresh focus on the issue. The drug named tianeptine is a synthetic drug approved in some countries for treatment of depression, and mimics opioids like fentanyl and has a potential to form habit. In the US, it is available easily in convenience stores, smoke shops, gas stations or even online.

Reports have said that in addition to having risk of addiction, tianeptine may cause withdrawal symptoms and carries risk of overdose. It has been reported that the drug may also cause seizures, psychosis, kidney damage and may even lead to death.

Since 2022, USFDA has been vocal about urging consumers in the US to avoid the drug. However, it has been seen that vendors continue to promote the drug as dietary supplement.&nbsp;

This has happened in spite of FDA explicitly saying that tianeptine "does not meet the statutory definition of a dietary ingredient and is an unsafe food additive."

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Last week, the USFDA cautioned consumers again about tianeptine, which is a component of products like Neptune's Fix, Za Za Red and Tianaa.

"These products may interact, in life-threatening ways, with other medications a consumer may be taking. The agency is actively investigating adverse event reports in conjunction with local and state health departments," USFDA warned in its report.

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The agency also said that Neptune Resources&nbsp;LLC had voluntarily agreed to recall Neptune Fix Elixir, Neptune Fix Extra Strength Elixir and Neptune's Fix tablets from consumer level.

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"Consumers, distributors and retailers that have these products should either dispose of them or return them to place of purchase immediately," USFDA warned.

"FDA sent a letter on Jan. 11, 2024, to convenience store, gas station and other organizations urging retailers to stop selling Neptune’s Fix and any other tianeptine-containing products," the agency added.

(With inputs from agencies)

A prescription drug commonly called "gas station heroin" is causing concern in the United States with the Food and Drug Administration putting fresh focus on the issue.

A prescription drug commonly called "gas station heroin" is causing concern in the United States with the Food and Drug Administration putting fresh focus on the issue. The drug named tianeptine is a synthetic drug approved in some countries for treatment of depression, and mimics opioids like fentanyl and has a potential to form habit. In the US, it is available easily in convenience stores, smoke shops, gas stations or even online. Reports have said that in addition to having risk of addiction, tianeptine may cause withdrawal symptoms and carries risk of overdose. It has been reported that the drug may also cause seizures, psychosis, kidney damage and may even lead to death. Since 2022, USFDA has been vocal about urging consumers in the US to avoid the drug. However, it has been seen that vendors continue to promote the drug as dietary supplement. This has happened in spite of FDA explicitly saying that tianeptine "does not meet the statutory definition of a dietary ingredient and is an unsafe food additive." Watch | Elon Musk's Neuralink implants brain chip in human for the first time × Last week, the USFDA cautioned consumers again about tianeptine, which is a component of products like Neptune's Fix, Za Za Red and Tianaa. "These products may interact, in life-threatening ways, with other medications a consumer may be taking. The agency is actively investigating adverse event reports in conjunction with local and state health departments," USFDA warned in its report. Also Read | NASA's Hubble Telescope finds water vapour in distant planet's atmosphere The agency also said that Neptune Resources LLC had voluntarily agreed to recall Neptune Fix Elixir, Neptune Fix Extra Strength Elixir and Neptune's Fix tablets from consumer level. Also Read | Hermit crabs found using discarded plastic waste as form of armour "Consumers, distributors and retailers that have these products should either dispose of them or return them to place of purchase immediately," USFDA warned. "FDA sent a letter on Jan. 11, 2024, to convenience store, gas station and other organizations urging retailers to stop selling Neptune’s Fix and any other tianeptine-containing products," the agency added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Gas station heroin’ comes into renewed focus after USFDA warning

Over a dozen countries, including the United States and more recently <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-suspends-financial-support-to-unrwa-amid-allegations-of-staff-involvement-in-gaza-attack-684707">Japan</a>, have suspended funds for the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees after Israel accused some of its employees of participating in the October 7 attack by Hamas. However, a UN expert said that these countries may be violating the World Court order to provide effective aid in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Why are countries pausing the funding to Gaza?</h2>

At least 14&nbsp;countries, including top donors like the US and Germany, have paused funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), amid accusations by Israel that their staff participated in the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group&nbsp;Hamas.&nbsp;

The allegations led to the UNRWA terminating several employees based on the information provided by Israeli authorities. However, many countries are now hesitant to continue the UN agency funding and calling for a thorough investigation.&nbsp;

New Zealand, on Tuesday&nbsp;(Jan 30) joined a growing number of countries: Australia, Austria,&nbsp;Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands,&nbsp;Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the US, to halt the funding to the UNRWA.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the European Union,&nbsp;one of UNRWA's top donors, on Monday (Jan 29)&nbsp;demanded an "urgent" audit of the UN agency for Palestinians.&nbsp;

A commission statement said the EU executive "will determine upcoming funding decisions...in light of the very serious allegations made on 24 January relating to the involvement of UNRWA staff in the heinous 7 October attacks". It also said&nbsp;no additional funding to UNRWA "is foreseen until the end of February".

The Palestinian militant group Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel resulted in the killing of 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and around 240 people were taken to Gaza as hostages, according to Israeli officials. Approximately more than 100 people are still said to be in Hamas captivity.&nbsp;

Israel has since retaliated with constant bombardment and ground operation in the Palestinian enclave killing more than 26,000 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. &nbsp;

<h2>UN responds to suspension of aid</h2>

The UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini in a statement, on Saturday (Jan 27) slammed what he called <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-agency-for-palestinians-slams-shocking-suspension-of-funds-by-several-western-countries-684412">“shocking” suspensions of funding</a>.&nbsp;

“It is shocking to see a suspension of funds to the agency in reaction to allegations against a small group of staff, especially given the immediate action that UNRWA took by terminating their contracts and asking for a transparent independent investigation,” said Lazzarini, in a statement.&nbsp;

“Palestinians in Gaza did not need this additional collective punishment,” the UNRWA chief said on X and added “This stains all of us.”

Meanwhile, UN chief Antonio Guterres on Sunday (Jan 28) urged the donor states to “guarantee the continuity” of funds to the UNRWA. He added, “The abhorrent alleged acts of these staff members must have consequences.”&nbsp;

However, Guterres said, “tens of thousands of men and women who work for UNRWA, many in some of the most dangerous situations for humanitarian workers, should not be penalized.”

“Any UNRWA employee involved in acts of terror will be held accountable, including through criminal prosecution,” Lazzarini assured when the allegations were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-warns-will-end-un-agencys-operations-in-gaza-nations-halt-aid-amid-oct-7-allegations-684304">first levelled</a> against the agency’s staff.

<h2>Are the countries violating international law?</h2>

UN special rapporteur for the occupied Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese, warned that the decision taken by several countries to pause the funding to the UNRWA “overtly defies” the order by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to allow effective humanitarian assistance to reach Gazans.&nbsp;

“This will entail legal responsibilities - or the demise of the (international) legal system,” said the UN expert, in a post on X.&nbsp;

Albanese is referring to one, among the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-key-takeaways-from-icj-order-in-gaza-genocide-case-against-israel-684019">series of provisional measures</a> on Israel given by the ICJ which included “order to allow effective humanitarian assistance ‘to address the adverse conditions of life faced by Palestinians in Gaza’”.&nbsp;

The court order stated, “Israel must take immediate and effective measures to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to address the adverse conditions of life faced by Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.”

The UN judges gave an interim ruling on January 26 as the World Court continues to hear the case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of state-led genocide in the Gaza Strip amid its ongoing operation in the blockaded Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

The UN special rapporteur, an independent expert&nbsp;who does not speak on behalf of the United Nations, also went on to highlight the timing that the announcements were made by several countries.&nbsp;

“The day after ICJ concluded that Israel is plausibly committing genocide in Gaza, some states decided to defund UNRWA,” said Albanese, in a separate post on X.&nbsp;

She also noted that by pausing the funding, countries are “collectively punishing millions of Palestinians at the most critical time, and most likely violating their obligations under the Genocide Convention”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, an American International law professor Francis Boyle at the University of Illinois College of Law, who also serves as a legal adviser to the Provisional Government of the Palestinian Authority, in an interview with MSNBC called the suspension of funding “inconsistent” with the court order.&nbsp;

The governments who have made this decision without any due process or investigation, according to Boyle, are in violation of Article 2(c) of the Genocide Convention, which states “Deliberately&nbsp;inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.”

It is also worth noting that in its 29-page court order, the UN judges did indicate that they see a credible risk to Palestinians under the Genocide Convention, saying that “there is a real and imminent risk that irreparable prejudice will be caused to the rights claimed before the Court gives its final decision.”

“South Africa does not need to prove that Israel is committing genocide,” Juliette McIntyre, an international law expert told AFP <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-south-africa-discuss-gaza-war-as-israel-braces-for-world-court-ruling-on-genocide-case-683799">ahead of the interim ruling</a>, adding that they “simply need to establish that there is a plausible risk of genocide occurring.”&nbsp;

Experts ahead of the vote also said if the court decides there is a risk of genocide in Gaza, it could still have a ripple effect, particularly on the nations which support Israel politically or militarily.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel’s accusations against UNRWA staff</h2>

In his Sunday statement, the UN chief said 12 UNRWA employees were cited in the accusations by Israel out of which one is dead, nine have been fired and the “identity of the two others is being clarified.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, news agency Reuters, on Monday (Jan 29) reported that Israeli intelligence released a six-page dossier which alleges that some 190 UNRWA employees, including teachers, have doubled as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants.

One of the 11 accused is said to be a school counsellor who allegedly provided unspecified assistance to his son in the abduction of a woman during the Hamas infiltration.&nbsp;

Another UNRWA social worker, according to Reuters, has been accused of coordinating the movements of pick-up trucks used by the raiders and of weapons supplies.

Another Palestinian working for the UN agency is accused of participating in an attack on Reim, the site both of an army base and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-militants-parachuted-into-israeli-music-festival-turned-it-into-a-massacre-video-644452">Supernova music festival</a> where, according to Israeli officials, more than 360 revellers were killed.&nbsp;

The Reuters report, citing an anonymous source, also said that the report had been compiled by Israeli intelligence and was shared with the US, which was among the first countries to suspend funding for UNRWA, on Friday (Jan 26).&nbsp;

<h2>UNRWA’s role in Gaza</h2>

On Monday (Jan 29), the UN agency said that it would not be able to continue operations in Gaza and surrounding regions after the end of February without any new funding.

Notably, the UNRWA plays a significant role in the Palestinian enclave and helps provide education, health and aid services to two-thirds of Gaza’s 2.3 million population.&nbsp;

Therefore, without any further aid, the future of millions of Palestinians hangs in balance <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-qatar-officials-meet-in-paris-for-gaza-ceasefire-talks-684867">amid the ongoing war</a> and&nbsp;deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Over a dozen countries, including the United States and more recently Japan, have suspended funds for the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees after Israel accused some of its employees of participating in the October 7 attack by Hamas.

Over a dozen countries, including the United States and more recently Japan, have suspended funds for the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees after Israel accused some of its employees of participating in the October 7 attack by Hamas. However, a UN expert said that these countries may be violating the World Court order to provide effective aid in Gaza. Why are countries pausing the funding to Gaza? At least 14 countries, including top donors like the US and Germany, have paused funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), amid accusations by Israel that their staff participated in the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The allegations led to the UNRWA terminating several employees based on the information provided by Israeli authorities. However, many countries are now hesitant to continue the UN agency funding and calling for a thorough investigation. New Zealand, on Tuesday (Jan 30) joined a growing number of countries: Australia, Austria, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the US, to halt the funding to the UNRWA. Meanwhile, the European Union, one of UNRWA's top donors, on Monday (Jan 29) demanded an "urgent" audit of the UN agency for Palestinians. A commission statement said the EU executive "will determine upcoming funding decisions...in light of the very serious allegations made on 24 January relating to the involvement of UNRWA staff in the heinous 7 October attacks". It also said no additional funding to UNRWA "is foreseen until the end of February". The Palestinian militant group Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel resulted in the killing of 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and around 240 people were taken to Gaza as hostages, according to Israeli officials. Approximately more than 100 people are still said to be in Hamas captivity. Israel has since retaliated with constant bombardment and ground operation in the Palestinian enclave killing more than 26,000 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. UN responds to suspension of aid The UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini in a statement, on Saturday (Jan 27) slammed what he called “shocking” suspensions of funding. “It is shocking to see a suspension of funds to the agency in reaction to allegations against a small group of staff, especially given the immediate action that UNRWA took by terminating their contracts and asking for a transparent independent investigation,” said Lazzarini, in a statement. “Palestinians in Gaza did not need this additional collective punishment,” the UNRWA chief said on X and added “This stains all of us.” Meanwhile, UN chief Antonio Guterres on Sunday (Jan 28) urged the donor states to “guarantee the continuity” of funds to the UNRWA. He added, “The abhorrent alleged acts of these staff members must have consequences.” However, Guterres said, “tens of thousands of men and women who work for UNRWA, many in some of the most dangerous situations for humanitarian workers, should not be penalized.” “Any UNRWA employee involved in acts of terror will be held accountable, including through criminal prosecution,” Lazzarini assured when the allegations were first levelled against the agency’s staff. Are the countries violating international law? UN special rapporteur for the occupied Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese, warned that the decision taken by several countries to pause the funding to the UNRWA “overtly defies” the order by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to allow effective humanitarian assistance to reach Gazans. “This will entail legal responsibilities - or the demise of the (international) legal system,” said the UN expert, in a post on X. Albanese is referring to one, among the series of provisional measures on Israel given by the ICJ which included “order to allow effective humanitarian assistance ‘to address the adverse conditions of life faced by Palestinians in Gaza’”. The court order stated, “Israel must take immediate and effective measures to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to address the adverse conditions of life faced by Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.” The UN judges gave an interim ruling on January 26 as the World Court continues to hear the case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of state-led genocide in the Gaza Strip amid its ongoing operation in the blockaded Palestinian enclave. The UN special rapporteur, an independent expert who does not speak on behalf of the United Nations, also went on to highlight the timing that the announcements were made by several countries. “The day after ICJ concluded that Israel is plausibly committing genocide in Gaza, some states decided to defund UNRWA,” said Albanese, in a separate post on X. She also noted that by pausing the funding, countries are “collectively punishing millions of Palestinians at the most critical time, and most likely violating their obligations under the Genocide Convention”. Meanwhile, an American International law professor Francis Boyle at the University of Illinois College of Law, who also serves as a legal adviser to the Provisional Government of the Palestinian Authority, in an interview with MSNBC called the suspension of funding “inconsistent” with the court order. The governments who have made this decision without any due process or investigation, according to Boyle, are in violation of Article 2(c) of the Genocide Convention, which states “Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.” It is also worth noting that in its 29-page court order, the UN judges did indicate that they see a credible risk to Palestinians under the Genocide Convention, saying that “there is a real and imminent risk that irreparable prejudice will be caused to the rights claimed before the Court gives its final decision.” “South Africa does not need to prove that Israel is committing genocide,” Juliette McIntyre, an international law expert told AFP ahead of the interim ruling, adding that they “simply need to establish that there is a plausible risk of genocide occurring.” Experts ahead of the vote also said if the court decides there is a risk of genocide in Gaza, it could still have a ripple effect, particularly on the nations which support Israel politically or militarily. Israel’s accusations against UNRWA staff In his Sunday statement, the UN chief said 12 UNRWA employees were cited in the accusations by Israel out of which one is dead, nine have been fired and the “identity of the two others is being clarified.” Meanwhile, news agency Reuters, on Monday (Jan 29) reported that Israeli intelligence released a six-page dossier which alleges that some 190 UNRWA employees, including teachers, have doubled as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants. One of the 11 accused is said to be a school counsellor who allegedly provided unspecified assistance to his son in the abduction of a woman during the Hamas infiltration. Another UNRWA social worker, according to Reuters, has been accused of coordinating the movements of pick-up trucks used by the raiders and of weapons supplies. Another Palestinian working for the UN agency is accused of participating in an attack on Reim, the site both of an army base and the Supernova music festival where, according to Israeli officials, more than 360 revellers were killed. The Reuters report, citing an anonymous source, also said that the report had been compiled by Israeli intelligence and was shared with the US, which was among the first countries to suspend funding for UNRWA, on Friday (Jan 26). UNRWA’s role in Gaza On Monday (Jan 29), the UN agency said that it would not be able to continue operations in Gaza and surrounding regions after the end of February without any new funding. Notably, the UNRWA plays a significant role in the Palestinian enclave and helps provide education, health and aid services to two-thirds of Gaza’s 2.3 million population. Therefore, without any further aid, the future of millions of Palestinians hangs in balance amid the ongoing war and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Explained | Countries pausing funding for UNRWA might be violating genocide convention. Here’s how

Director of the Galleria dell’Accademia Cecilie Hollberg said that mass tourism has turned Florence into a “prostitute”. The comment sparked outrage and was slammed by politicians including Italy’s culture minister.

“Once a city becomes a prostitute, it is difficult for it to become a virgin again,” &nbsp;said Hollberg, while speaking to the reporters on the sidelines of an event.

Galleria dell’Accademia houses Michelangelo’s statue of David. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-pm-meloni-urged-to-rein-in-neo-fascists-after-fascist-salute-video-goes-viral-678368">Italy PM Meloni urged to rein in neo-fascists after fascist salute video goes viral</a>

“Florence is very beautiful and I would like it to return to its citizens and not be crushed by tourism,” said the German historian, while complaining how there is a lack of normal shops in streets which are filled with souvenirs.

But “it is already too late”, the director said, as reported by La Repubblica daily, and warned that if an “absolute” brake was not imposed on numbers, “I do not see any more hope.”

<h2>Gallery issues apology</h2>

Later, the gallery issued a statement, in which Hollberg apologised “for having used the wrong words” about “a city that I love”.

“What I meant to say is that Florence must be a witness for all of Italy of an increasingly conscious tourism, not hit-and-run tourism,” Hollberg said.

However, Italy's Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano said that her words were “serious and offensive” to Florence and the entire Italy and threatened to take action, stating that he would “evaluate all appropriate initiatives” under current legislation.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's nationalist government has been accused of trying to promote more Italians into top cultural roles and making people sympathetic towards her right-wing views.

Watch:&nbsp;Artificial intelligence to be key G7 issue for Italy: Giorgia Meloni

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/artificial-intelligence-to-be-key-g7-issue-for-italy-giorgia-meloni-676743/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The ministers last year approved a change which forced opera chiefs to leave their jobs after reaching the age of 70, a step which has been widely viewed as a way to remove foreigners from their posts.&nbsp;

Deputy Mayor of Florence Alessia Bettini, also weighed in against Hollberg, adding that if the city was a prostitute, “Are then Florentines the children of a prostitute, and tourists clients of a prostitute?”

A senator for Florence and former premier Matteo Renzi said Hollberg “should apologise or resign”.

The gallery director has become the latest official in Italy to express concern regarding the effects of uncontrolled tourism, particularly in cities like Florence – where the historic centre is filled with crowds for most of the time of the year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Director of the Galleria dell’Accademia Cecilie Hollberg said that mass tourism has turned Florence into a “prostitute”. The comment sparked outrage and was slammed by politicians including Italy’s culture minister.

Director of the Galleria dell’Accademia Cecilie Hollberg said that mass tourism has turned Florence into a “prostitute”. The comment sparked outrage and was slammed by politicians including Italy’s culture minister. “Once a city becomes a prostitute, it is difficult for it to become a virgin again,” said Hollberg, while speaking to the reporters on the sidelines of an event. Galleria dell’Accademia houses Michelangelo’s statue of David. Also read: Italy PM Meloni urged to rein in neo-fascists after fascist salute video goes viral “Florence is very beautiful and I would like it to return to its citizens and not be crushed by tourism,” said the German historian, while complaining how there is a lack of normal shops in streets which are filled with souvenirs. But “it is already too late”, the director said, as reported by La Repubblica daily, and warned that if an “absolute” brake was not imposed on numbers, “I do not see any more hope.” Gallery issues apology Later, the gallery issued a statement, in which Hollberg apologised “for having used the wrong words” about “a city that I love”. “What I meant to say is that Florence must be a witness for all of Italy of an increasingly conscious tourism, not hit-and-run tourism,” Hollberg said. However, Italy's Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano said that her words were “serious and offensive” to Florence and the entire Italy and threatened to take action, stating that he would “evaluate all appropriate initiatives” under current legislation. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's nationalist government has been accused of trying to promote more Italians into top cultural roles and making people sympathetic towards her right-wing views. Watch: Artificial intelligence to be key G7 issue for Italy: Giorgia Meloni The ministers last year approved a change which forced opera chiefs to leave their jobs after reaching the age of 70, a step which has been widely viewed as a way to remove foreigners from their posts. Deputy Mayor of Florence Alessia Bettini, also weighed in against Hollberg, adding that if the city was a prostitute, “Are then Florentines the children of a prostitute, and tourists clients of a prostitute?” A senator for Florence and former premier Matteo Renzi said Hollberg “should apologise or resign”. The gallery director has become the latest official in Italy to express concern regarding the effects of uncontrolled tourism, particularly in cities like Florence – where the historic centre is filled with crowds for most of the time of the year. (With inputs from agencies)

Museum chief calls Florence a ‘prostitute’, sparks row in Italy

Indian foreign minister S.Jaishankar on 'India Out' campaign in Maldives said, 'at the end of the day neighbours need each other.' S. Jaishankar said, 'History & Geography are powerful forces." The External affairs minister stated that, 'Global politics is competitive, aim to do your best.' watch to know more!

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on India-Maldives ties

Imran Khan & Shah Mahmood Qureshi convicted in Cipher case. The verdict comes days ahead of February 8 elections in Pakistan. The Ex-Pak PM has been convicted for revealing state secrets. Watch to know more!

Pakistan: Imran Khan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi convicted in Cipher case

As international mediators push for ceasefire in Gaza. Israel has alleged that over 190 UN staff members doubled as militants.

Israel-Hamas War: Hostage release proposal looks strong, says Blinken | WION Dispatch

Indian external affairs minister talks about India's ties with neighbouring countries. Meanwhile, Madlivian opposition party leader asks Muizzu to apologise to Indian Prime Minister.

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar speaks on Maldives' 'India out' campaign

French farmers determined as Paris highway blockades reach 2nd day. Farmers block local tax centre with pile of tyres. Dutch farmers park tractors and trailers close to EU parliament. French farmers continue to choke roads leading into Paris. Watch to know more!

French farmers choke roads leading into Paris | Dutch farmers protest close to EU Parliament

South Korea's special parliamentary committee on Tuesday (Jan 30) passed a revision to the Public Official Election Act which called for a ban on political campaign videos that use AI-generated deepfakes in the election season.

As per the revised law, individuals can be sentenced to a maximum of seven years of imprisonment or a fine of nearly 50 million won ($37,618) if they are found showing or distributing political campaign videos which have been created using deepfake technology in the 90 days before an election.&nbsp;

The creators have also been mandated to notify viewers regarding synthetic information which is present in the deepfake videos, even if such videos are posted before the 90-day window, according to the revision.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-several-cruise-missiles-off-its-west-coast-says-south-koreas-military-684936">North Korea fires 'several' cruise missiles off its west coast, says South Korea’s military</a>

If the law is passed by the parliament, it will come into effect from January 11, 2024, before the general elections will be held in April.

<h2>Deepfake's deepening roots in political elections</h2>

The government has adopted the step in accordance with a global trend to regulate political ads which use deepfake technology amid increasing concerns that such content can be misleading and carries the chance of confusing the voters on a mass scale.

Watch:&nbsp;North Korea launches cruise missiles, South Korean military reports multiple launches

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-launches-cruise-missiles-south-korean-military-reports-multiple-launches-684522/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Big tech companies like Google LLC and Facebook's parent company Meta Platforms Inc. have updated their policies which require users to add a disclaimer in the deepfake generated political ads.&nbsp;

The US Federal Election Commission has also started the procedure to regulate such campaign videos before the 2024 elections begin, as per the reports.&nbsp;

The use of fake audio and images in political advertisements is not new in South Korea.&nbsp;

In the 2022 presidential elections, the current main opposition leader Lee Jae-myung and then candidate President Yoon Suk Yeol both had an AI-generated replica of themselves included in their campaign videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's special parliamentary committee on Tuesday (Jan 30) passed a revision to the Public Official Election Act which called for a ban on political campaign videos that use AI-generated deepfakes in the election season.

South Korea's special parliamentary committee on Tuesday (Jan 30) passed a revision to the Public Official Election Act which called for a ban on political campaign videos that use AI-generated deepfakes in the election season. As per the revised law, individuals can be sentenced to a maximum of seven years of imprisonment or a fine of nearly 50 million won ($37,618) if they are found showing or distributing political campaign videos which have been created using deepfake technology in the 90 days before an election. The creators have also been mandated to notify viewers regarding synthetic information which is present in the deepfake videos, even if such videos are posted before the 90-day window, according to the revision. Also read: North Korea fires 'several' cruise missiles off its west coast, says South Korea’s military If the law is passed by the parliament, it will come into effect from January 11, 2024, before the general elections will be held in April. Deepfake's deepening roots in political elections The government has adopted the step in accordance with a global trend to regulate political ads which use deepfake technology amid increasing concerns that such content can be misleading and carries the chance of confusing the voters on a mass scale. Watch: North Korea launches cruise missiles, South Korean military reports multiple launches Big tech companies like Google LLC and Facebook's parent company Meta Platforms Inc. have updated their policies which require users to add a disclaimer in the deepfake generated political ads. The US Federal Election Commission has also started the procedure to regulate such campaign videos before the 2024 elections begin, as per the reports. The use of fake audio and images in political advertisements is not new in South Korea. In the 2022 presidential elections, the current main opposition leader Lee Jae-myung and then candidate President Yoon Suk Yeol both had an AI-generated replica of themselves included in their campaign videos. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea imposes 90-day ban on deepfake political campaign videos

Hamas militants have a variety of home-made or smuggled rockets at their disposal. Now, Israeli military has realised it has been arming Hamas all this time. Here's how the militants are re-purposing Israeli munitions, and Hamas' patchwork of weapons built by Iran, China, Russia and North Korea.

Israel-Hamas war: Who builds weapons that Hamas fighters use?

After the US, Australia, UK, Japan & Germany; New Zealand joins the list of countries that have suspended their funding to the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees. The UN agency, considered a lifeline for two million people in the besieged enclave has suffered funding cuts after several of its staff were accused of involvement in the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.

UNRWA Crisis: Funding paused until allegations investigated, says New Zealand PM

Rishi Sunak wins 1st vote in house of lords on Rwanda Asylum law. Sunak wins with decisive vote count of 206 in favour & 84 against. The Rwanda bill proposes to send Asylum seekers arriving in UK back to Rwanda. In 2024, over 1,000 asylum seekers arrived in the UK. Watch to know more!

UK: PM Rishi Sunak wins 1st vote in House of lords on Rwanda Asylum law

A drone strike on the Al-Tanf military base killed three US troops and injured 34 others, Washington said on Sunday (Jan 28). This was the first deadly strike against US forces since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted on Oct 7 last year. US President Joe Biden blamed Iran-backed militants for the strike and vowed that Washington would respond. Watch to know more!

West Asia Crisis: Three US soldiers killed, 34 injured in drone strike in Jordan

A former United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) contractor was sentenced to five years in prison on Monday (Jan 29) for leaking the tax records of thousands of Americans, including former President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

<h2>About the sentence</h2>

Charles Littlejohn, 38, pleaded guilty in October to one count of unauthorised disclosures of income tax returns.&nbsp;

According to a plea deal, the former employee of a consulting firm – which worked on a contractual basis with the IRS – stole the tax data of Trump and “thousands of the nation’s wealthiest people” and leaked it to two news outlets.&nbsp;

US District Judge Ana Reyes who handed the five-year prison sentence called Littlejohn’s actions a threat to democracy and linked it to broader attacks on elected officials in Washington.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scathing-report-accuses-trump-administration-of-controlled-substance-violations-in-white-house-684984">Scathing report accuses Trump administration of controlled substance abuse violations in White House</a>

“What you did in targeting the sitting president of the United States was an attack on our constitutional democracy,” Reyes told Littlejohn. “We’re talking about someone who…pulled off the biggest heist in IRS history.”

The federal prosecutors have sought a five-year sentence, the maximum allowed under US law, saying that the 38-year-old was motivated by a political agenda and compromised the security of sensitive personal information.&nbsp;

“A free press and public engagement with the media are critical to any healthy democracy, but stealing and leaking private, personal tax information strips individuals of the legal protection of their most sensitive data,” prosecutors wrote in a court filing.&nbsp;

The prosecutors alleged that Littlejohn, in 2017, sought a position at a consulting firm that works with the IRS hoping to get access to and disclose records on then-president Trump.&nbsp;

<h2>Tax data leaked</h2>

During the 2016 presidential election, the Republican candidate became the first one in decades who had not released his tax returns when he ran for the White House.&nbsp;

According to court documents, Littlejohn secretly downloaded years of Trump’s tax records in 2018 and later shared them with reporters from the New York Times.&nbsp;

In 2020, the American newspaper, based on the information, published a series of articles revealing that Trump paid no income tax in 10 of the 15 years before he took office.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-president-donald-trumps-tax-returns-released-by-us-house-panel-548149">Ex-US president Donald Trump's tax returns released by US House panel</a>

Littlejohn leaked information about more than 8,000 income tax returns relating to about 7,600 people. He also leaked information about “ultra-high net worth taxpayers” to investigative news outlet ProPublica.&nbsp;

The media outlet, based on the information, published nearly 50 articles and revealed how the wealthy have evaded taxes in the US.&nbsp;

In court, on Monday, the 38-year-old apologised for his actions. “I acted out of a sincere, if misguided, belief that I was serving the public interest,” Littlejohn told the court.&nbsp;

He added, “We as a country make the best decisions when we are all properly informed.”

His lawyers also said that he was motivated by a “deep, moral belief” that the public had a right to know the information he shared.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A former United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) contractor was sentenced to five years in prison on Monday (Jan 29) for leaking the tax records of thousands of Americans, including former President Donald Trump.

A former United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) contractor was sentenced to five years in prison on Monday (Jan 29) for leaking the tax records of thousands of Americans, including former President Donald Trump. About the sentence Charles Littlejohn, 38, pleaded guilty in October to one count of unauthorised disclosures of income tax returns. According to a plea deal, the former employee of a consulting firm – which worked on a contractual basis with the IRS – stole the tax data of Trump and “thousands of the nation’s wealthiest people” and leaked it to two news outlets. US District Judge Ana Reyes who handed the five-year prison sentence called Littlejohn’s actions a threat to democracy and linked it to broader attacks on elected officials in Washington. ALSO READ | Scathing report accuses Trump administration of controlled substance abuse violations in White House “What you did in targeting the sitting president of the United States was an attack on our constitutional democracy,” Reyes told Littlejohn. “We’re talking about someone who…pulled off the biggest heist in IRS history.” The federal prosecutors have sought a five-year sentence, the maximum allowed under US law, saying that the 38-year-old was motivated by a political agenda and compromised the security of sensitive personal information. “A free press and public engagement with the media are critical to any healthy democracy, but stealing and leaking private, personal tax information strips individuals of the legal protection of their most sensitive data,” prosecutors wrote in a court filing. The prosecutors alleged that Littlejohn, in 2017, sought a position at a consulting firm that works with the IRS hoping to get access to and disclose records on then-president Trump. Tax data leaked During the 2016 presidential election, the Republican candidate became the first one in decades who had not released his tax returns when he ran for the White House. According to court documents, Littlejohn secretly downloaded years of Trump’s tax records in 2018 and later shared them with reporters from the New York Times. In 2020, the American newspaper, based on the information, published a series of articles revealing that Trump paid no income tax in 10 of the 15 years before he took office. ALSO READ | Ex-US president Donald Trump's tax returns released by US House panel Littlejohn leaked information about more than 8,000 income tax returns relating to about 7,600 people. He also leaked information about “ultra-high net worth taxpayers” to investigative news outlet ProPublica. The media outlet, based on the information, published nearly 50 articles and revealed how the wealthy have evaded taxes in the US. In court, on Monday, the 38-year-old apologised for his actions. “I acted out of a sincere, if misguided, belief that I was serving the public interest,” Littlejohn told the court. He added, “We as a country make the best decisions when we are all properly informed.” His lawyers also said that he was motivated by a “deep, moral belief” that the public had a right to know the information he shared. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-IRS contractor who stole and leaked Trump’s tax records, sentenced to 5 years in prison

After weeks of protests against Germany's far right AfD, the party lost a district election on Saturday. Can the demonstrations over the far-right's stance on immigration be a sign of things to come for September's state election? Watch to know more!

Germany's far-right party loses district polls

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: US defense secretary Lloyd Austin has vowed to take “all necessary actions” to defend US troops after Iran-backed militants killed three US troops and wounded dozens more in a drone attack on a US base in Jordan.

West Asia on edge: US vows all 'necessary actions' to defend its troops | WION Speed News

The Hijab issue gains prominence ahead of polls. Iranian clerics divided over Hijab issue. Severe punishment for defying Hijab law sparks unrest. Over 70,000 warnings issued in QOM for Hijab defiance since March. Watch to know more!

Iran: Hijab issue gains prominence ahead of polls | Iran Elections

Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-E-Insaaf is back in the headlines, as several party workers and supporters were arrested during an election rally. With elections just over a week away, where does the PTI stand with its top leaders in prison?

Pakistan police crackdown on PTI supporters at campaign rally | Pakistan Elections

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