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

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

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

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

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

Jaishankar rejects trade link to ending Ukraine war 

Israeli strikes on Lebanon kill three, injure 23 despite truce

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

South Korea mulls deploying military assets to Strait of Hormuz

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

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

Taiwan raises 'concerns' over China's missile test

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nazi-looted art to return to Jewish heirs

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

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

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

Why US tanks weigh over 20 tons more than Russian tanks

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

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

On January 11, 2024, two US Navy SEALs went missing after falling into the water during a nighttime boarding mission in the Gulf of Aden. The SEALs were raiding a small ship off Somalia. Now, they are declared dead.

US says 2 Navy seals missing declared dead after anti-Houthi mission

<p>Four individuals have miraculously survived the Moscow-bound jet crash in Afghanistan, as reported by Russia's aviation watchdog Rosaviatsia on Sunday (Jan 21). A charter plane destined for Moscow had gone off the radar on Saturday (Jan 20) after which it was reported that it had crashed in the mountains in northern Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, about the other two passengers, Taliban provincial officials who reached the crash site, reportedly said that they could not survive the incident and were killed.</p>

<p>Providing further updates on those who survived the tragedy, the Taliban administration's spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid identified the pilot as among the survivors and mentioned ongoing efforts to search for and assist the remaining individuals.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-resumes-production-at-major-oilfield-after-two-week-halt-682172">Libya resumes crude production at major oilfield after two-week halt</a></p>

<p>This development comes as the Russian-registered charter plane, carrying six people, disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan, and a crash incident was reported to Afghan police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The condition of surviving individuals, who are now with Taliban officials, remains unclear. The commercial aircraft was initially thought to be from India, however, this was not the case. As per the Russian aviation authority, the flight was identified as a charter ambulance that originated from Thailand's Utapao Airport in Pattaya and was en route to Moscow via India and Uzbekistan, Reuters reported.</p>

<p>Some media reports citing sources said that the French-made Dassault Aviation Falcon 10 jet, manufactured in 1978, experienced fuel issues about 25 minutes before disappearing from radar.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-spend-millions-for-upgradation-of-missile-system-used-in-red-sea-amid-rising-tensions-682167">UK to spend millions for upgradation of missile system used in Red Sea amid rising tensions</a></p>

<p>The pilot reportedly signalled low fuel and attempted to land in Tajikistan. Subsequently, both engines stopped functioning. However, WION cannot verify this information independently.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The jet was carrying a bedridden Russian patient and her husband, a private Russian entrepreneur, who had paid for the flight, as per media reports citing&nbsp;a source at Thailand's Utapao International Airport. The couple reportedly hailed from Volgodonsk in southern Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/passenger-plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-mountains-682031">Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's mountains</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/passenger-plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-mountains-682031/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Several other reports citing the plane manifest list suggested that the crew were also Russian nationals.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Four individuals have miraculously survived the Moscow-bound jet crash in Afghanistan, as reported by Russia's aviation watchdog Rosaviatsia on Sunday (Jan 21). A charter plane destined for Moscow had gone off the radar on Saturday (Jan 20) after which it was reported that it had crashed in the mountains in northern Afghanistan.

Four individuals have miraculously survived the Moscow-bound jet crash in Afghanistan, as reported by Russia's aviation watchdog Rosaviatsia on Sunday (Jan 21). A charter plane destined for Moscow had gone off the radar on Saturday (Jan 20) after which it was reported that it had crashed in the mountains in northern Afghanistan. Meanwhile, about the other two passengers, Taliban provincial officials who reached the crash site, reportedly said that they could not survive the incident and were killed. Providing further updates on those who survived the tragedy, the Taliban administration's spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid identified the pilot as among the survivors and mentioned ongoing efforts to search for and assist the remaining individuals. Also Read | Libya resumes crude production at major oilfield after two-week halt This development comes as the Russian-registered charter plane, carrying six people, disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan, and a crash incident was reported to Afghan police. The condition of surviving individuals, who are now with Taliban officials, remains unclear. The commercial aircraft was initially thought to be from India, however, this was not the case. As per the Russian aviation authority, the flight was identified as a charter ambulance that originated from Thailand's Utapao Airport in Pattaya and was en route to Moscow via India and Uzbekistan, Reuters reported. Some media reports citing sources said that the French-made Dassault Aviation Falcon 10 jet, manufactured in 1978, experienced fuel issues about 25 minutes before disappearing from radar. Also Read | UK to spend millions for upgradation of missile system used in Red Sea amid rising tensions The pilot reportedly signalled low fuel and attempted to land in Tajikistan. Subsequently, both engines stopped functioning. However, WION cannot verify this information independently. The jet was carrying a bedridden Russian patient and her husband, a private Russian entrepreneur, who had paid for the flight, as per media reports citing a source at Thailand's Utapao International Airport. The couple reportedly hailed from Volgodonsk in southern Russia. Watch | Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's mountains × Several other reports citing the plane manifest list suggested that the crew were also Russian nationals. (With inputs from agencies)

Four miraculously survive Moscow-bound charter jet crash in Afghanistan

Latest in Israel-Hamas war: Hamas releases report justifying October 7 attack on Israel. Israel rejects mounting pressure for Palestinian state. Netanyahu ignore Biden, rejects Palestinian sovereignty. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu rejects Hamas deal to end war, release captives

<p>United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (jan 21) mocked Donald Trump after the latter confused his GOP opponent Nikki Haley with former Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during a campaign rally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Biden wrote: "I don't agree with Nikki Haley on everything, but we agree on this much: She is not Nancy Pelosi."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden attached a video of the campaign ad with the post which garnered thousands of reactions from social media media users. The ad appeared to be a veiled attempt to target Trump's mental fitness, just like Republicans have been doing for Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-indecisive-remark-on-taiwan-sparks-concern-once-again-682512">Donald Trump’s indecisive remark on Taiwan sparks concern once again</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In the ad, Haley can be heard reacting to Trump's comments, in which he appeared to mix up the two high-profile female politicians US — Haley and Pelosi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video starts with Haley addressing a gathering on Saturday and pointing out Trump's mix-up. The video also contained moments from Trump's rally on Friday and from earlier rallies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Haley, the former South Carolina governor and UN ambassador under Trump, said in the video: "Last night, Trump is at a rally. And he's going on and on, mentioning me multiple times as to why I didn't handle January 6 better. I wasn't in the office then. They're saying he got confused."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-dean-phillips-the-democrat-threatening-bidens-2024-bid-and-dividing-party-682531">Who is Dean Phillips? The Democrat threatening Biden’s 2024 bid and ‘dividing’ party</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"He got confused. He got confused and said he was running against Obama. He never ran against Obama. Don't put our country at risk like this," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Trump reiterated that he was not responsible for the attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Without providing substantive evidence, he claims that the failures on that day were because of then-Speaker Pelosi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also claimed the evidence gathered by the January 6 select committee was deleted, however, it's publicly available online.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I don’t agree with Nikki Haley on everything, but we agree on this much: She is not Nancy Pelosi. <a href="https://t.co/hjNgmcrwAP">pic.twitter.com/hjNgmcrwAP</a></p>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1749131121114091648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Trump is the frontrunner&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Trump has emerged as the frontrunner after dominating the opinion polls and winning the Iowa caucus. The race was simplified even more for Trump when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis suspended his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination on Sunday. DeSantis said that he would throw his support behind Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p>DeSantis said that after his second-place finish last week in the Iowa caucuses he could not "ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we don't have a clear path to victory". In a video posted to X, he added: "I am today suspending my campaign."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (jan 21) mocked Donald Trump after the latter confused his GOP opponent Nikki Haley with former Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during a campaign rally.

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (jan 21) mocked Donald Trump after the latter confused his GOP opponent Nikki Haley with former Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during a campaign rally. In a post shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Biden wrote: "I don't agree with Nikki Haley on everything, but we agree on this much: She is not Nancy Pelosi." Biden attached a video of the campaign ad with the post which garnered thousands of reactions from social media media users. The ad appeared to be a veiled attempt to target Trump's mental fitness, just like Republicans have been doing for Biden. Also read: Donald Trump’s indecisive remark on Taiwan sparks concern once again In the ad, Haley can be heard reacting to Trump's comments, in which he appeared to mix up the two high-profile female politicians US — Haley and Pelosi. The video starts with Haley addressing a gathering on Saturday and pointing out Trump's mix-up. The video also contained moments from Trump's rally on Friday and from earlier rallies. Haley, the former South Carolina governor and UN ambassador under Trump, said in the video: "Last night, Trump is at a rally. And he's going on and on, mentioning me multiple times as to why I didn't handle January 6 better. I wasn't in the office then. They're saying he got confused." Also read: Who is Dean Phillips? The Democrat threatening Biden’s 2024 bid and ‘dividing’ party "He got confused. He got confused and said he was running against Obama. He never ran against Obama. Don't put our country at risk like this," she added. Meanwhile, Trump reiterated that he was not responsible for the attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Without providing substantive evidence, he claims that the failures on that day were because of then-Speaker Pelosi. He also claimed the evidence gathered by the January 6 select committee was deleted, however, it's publicly available online. Watch the video here: I don’t agree with Nikki Haley on everything, but we agree on this much: She is not Nancy Pelosi. pic.twitter.com/hjNgmcrwAP — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) January 21, 2024 × Trump is the frontrunner Trump has emerged as the frontrunner after dominating the opinion polls and winning the Iowa caucus. The race was simplified even more for Trump when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis suspended his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination on Sunday. DeSantis said that he would throw his support behind Trump. DeSantis said that after his second-place finish last week in the Iowa caucuses he could not "ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we don't have a clear path to victory". In a video posted to X, he added: "I am today suspending my campaign." (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Joe Biden shares video to mock Donald Trump for Haley-Pelosi mix-up

<p>While most polls show incumbent US President Joe Biden as an underdog in his anticipated contest against Republican ex-US President Donald Trump, another Democrat, Dean Phillips, from Minnesota is vowing to change the equation of the 2024 elections with his own presidential bid. In a recent interview, the Minnesota Congressman said “Joe Biden is one of the least well-positioned Democrats to take on this mission.”</p>

<h2><strong>How popular is Dean Phillips?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a poll released on January 9, Dean Phillips enjoys a meagre 7 per cent support among Democrats. Phillips has spent millions of dollars in his three-month-old presidential campaign, and now he hopes he might get up to “mid-twenties” support in Tuesday’s New Hampshire elections.</p>

<p>The 55-year-old Democrat is hopeful of wider support on Tuesday as Biden is not appearing on the primary ballot. The odd situation came as a result of the Democratic National Committee’s reshuffling of the party’s nominating schedule at Biden’s behest.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Response from fellow Democrats</strong></h2>

<p>Fellow Democrats have gone to great lengths to ridicule Dean Phillips and his presidential campaign. Some have accused him of disrespect and disloyalty and fretted that he is dividing the party. For instance, Rep. Robert Garcia (D., Calif.) told Axios that Phillips’s campaign was a “total joke” and said he had “torched his reputation.”</p>

<p>Not just that, in several states, including Florida, North Carolina and Tennessee, the state Democratic Party has refused to put Phillips on the primary ballot.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Key issues in the 2024 US Presidential Election</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/key-issues-in-the-2024-us-presidential-election-681661/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"How can Democrats say we're fighting for democracy, we're fighting to make voting easier, and then yet removing me from the ballot in Florida and North Carolina? How can you say you are for free speech and protecting freedom and democracy and not even consent to doing one debate? How can you say this?" Phillips exclaimed during the interview.</p>

<p>“Democrats are doing something to democracy that I think is just as dangerous as the insurrection,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Dean Phillips considering alternative</strong></h2>

<p>On Saturday (Jan 20), Phillips said he might even consider running on the ticket of No Labels, a centrist group exploring an independent bid if there appears to be a potential rematch between Trump and Biden.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw3J-RdmR3CzVidCBp5GzUst" data-ved="2ahUKEwjVyJa2hfGDAxV7a2wGHWHbCIEQxfQBKAB6BAgZEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-vs-michelle-obama-in-2024-us-elections-reports-say-former-first-lady-could-replace-joe-biden-682065" jsname="YKoRaf">Donald Trump Vs Michelle Obama in 2024 US elections? Reports say former first lady could replace Joe Biden</a></strong></p>

<p>This possibility has alarmed many Democrats who fear that his parallel candidacy might siphon votes from Joe Biden, handing over an edge to Trump. “People are criticising them (No Labels) because they believe whomever they offer on their ticket will hurt Joe Biden,” Phillips said after a town hall event at a senior centre in Nashua, N.H.</p>

<p>“That’s false. If they put someone at the top of the ticket who could actually drive votes from Donald Trump, every Democrat in the United States of America should be celebrating it.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


While most polls show incumbent US President Joe Biden as an underdog in his anticipated contest against Republican ex-US President Donald Trump, another Democrat, Dean Phillips, from Minnesota is vowing to change the equation of the 2024 elections with his own presidential bid.

While most polls show incumbent US President Joe Biden as an underdog in his anticipated contest against Republican ex-US President Donald Trump, another Democrat, Dean Phillips, from Minnesota is vowing to change the equation of the 2024 elections with his own presidential bid. In a recent interview, the Minnesota Congressman said “Joe Biden is one of the least well-positioned Democrats to take on this mission.” How popular is Dean Phillips? According to a poll released on January 9, Dean Phillips enjoys a meagre 7 per cent support among Democrats. Phillips has spent millions of dollars in his three-month-old presidential campaign, and now he hopes he might get up to “mid-twenties” support in Tuesday’s New Hampshire elections. The 55-year-old Democrat is hopeful of wider support on Tuesday as Biden is not appearing on the primary ballot. The odd situation came as a result of the Democratic National Committee’s reshuffling of the party’s nominating schedule at Biden’s behest. Response from fellow Democrats Fellow Democrats have gone to great lengths to ridicule Dean Phillips and his presidential campaign. Some have accused him of disrespect and disloyalty and fretted that he is dividing the party. For instance, Rep. Robert Garcia (D., Calif.) told Axios that Phillips’s campaign was a “total joke” and said he had “torched his reputation.” Not just that, in several states, including Florida, North Carolina and Tennessee, the state Democratic Party has refused to put Phillips on the primary ballot. Watch: Key issues in the 2024 US Presidential Election × "How can Democrats say we're fighting for democracy, we're fighting to make voting easier, and then yet removing me from the ballot in Florida and North Carolina? How can you say you are for free speech and protecting freedom and democracy and not even consent to doing one debate? How can you say this?" Phillips exclaimed during the interview. “Democrats are doing something to democracy that I think is just as dangerous as the insurrection,” he added. Dean Phillips considering alternative On Saturday (Jan 20), Phillips said he might even consider running on the ticket of No Labels, a centrist group exploring an independent bid if there appears to be a potential rematch between Trump and Biden. Also read: Donald Trump Vs Michelle Obama in 2024 US elections? Reports say former first lady could replace Joe Biden This possibility has alarmed many Democrats who fear that his parallel candidacy might siphon votes from Joe Biden, handing over an edge to Trump. “People are criticising them (No Labels) because they believe whomever they offer on their ticket will hurt Joe Biden,” Phillips said after a town hall event at a senior centre in Nashua, N.H. “That’s false. If they put someone at the top of the ticket who could actually drive votes from Donald Trump, every Democrat in the United States of America should be celebrating it.” (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Dean Phillips? The Democrat threatening Biden’s 2024 bid and ‘dividing’ party

<p>China's chief intelligence agency posted on social media a comic strip featuring foreign-looking characters secretly extracting rare earths, in a story portraying the country's strategic metals under threat from covetous "overseas organisations".</p>

<p>The comic strip, published on Sunday on the State Security Ministry's official WeChat account, showed security officers uncovering "suspicious" exploration and mapping activities by a group of people supposedly doing survey work for real estate development.</p>

<p>No foreign government or agencies were named in the comic strip, and the ministry did not specify any measures to counter foreign 'interest'&nbsp;in China's rare earths.</p>

<p>The ministry could not be reached for further comment.</p>

<p>China, the world's largest producer of rare earths accounting for nearly 90% of global refined output, last year introduced restrictions on exports of the elements&nbsp;germanium and gallium, used widely in the chip-making sector, citing the need to protect national security and interests.</p>

<p>It also banned the export of&nbsp;technology&nbsp;to make rare earth magnets, in addition to a ban on technology to extract and separate rare earths.</p>

<p>The restrictions have fanned fears that the supply of rare earths might ignite tensions with the West, particularly the United States, which accuses China of using economic coercion to influence other countries. Beijing denies the claim.</p>

<p>The United States has previously imposed restrictions on China's access to advanced chips and chip-making tools that could fuel breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and sophisticated computers for its military.</p>

<p>The demand for rare earths, used widely in lasers, military equipment and consumer electronics, has&nbsp;grown with the rapid development of new energy vehicles, wind power and inverter air conditioners.</p>

<p>"As technology grows in leaps and bounds, some primary minerals have become rare strategic resources," a police character in the comic said.</p>

<p>"China boasts rich resources of these minerals. Overseas organisations have already had their eyes on them."</p>

<p>Set in fictional Xishan Mining Area - described as an area rich in critical and scarce mineral deposits that could bring breakthroughs in super-semiconductor technology - the comic depicts two officers that were sent to the area undercover as lost hikers to gather information.</p>

<p>State-controlled Global Times described the comic as underscoring the importance of safeguarding key mineral resources as China-U.S. trade frictions and global geopolitical tensions have turned the global competition for rare earths into an issue of national security.</p>

<p>The newspaper said the United States, Japan and the European Union, among others, have for a long time "coveted China's rare earth mineral resources".</p>

<p>"They have even resorted to infiltration, bribery, and espionage to achieve their goals," Global Times said, quoting Li Baiyang, an associate professor of intelligence studies at Nanjing University.</p>


China's chief intelligence agency posted on social media a comic strip featuring foreign-looking characters secretly extracting rare earths, in a story portraying the country's strategic metals under threat from covetous "overseas organisations".

China's chief intelligence agency posted on social media a comic strip featuring foreign-looking characters secretly extracting rare earths, in a story portraying the country's strategic metals under threat from covetous "overseas organisations". The comic strip, published on Sunday on the State Security Ministry's official WeChat account, showed security officers uncovering "suspicious" exploration and mapping activities by a group of people supposedly doing survey work for real estate development. No foreign government or agencies were named in the comic strip, and the ministry did not specify any measures to counter foreign 'interest' in China's rare earths. The ministry could not be reached for further comment. China, the world's largest producer of rare earths accounting for nearly 90% of global refined output, last year introduced restrictions on exports of the elements germanium and gallium, used widely in the chip-making sector, citing the need to protect national security and interests. It also banned the export of technology to make rare earth magnets, in addition to a ban on technology to extract and separate rare earths. The restrictions have fanned fears that the supply of rare earths might ignite tensions with the West, particularly the United States, which accuses China of using economic coercion to influence other countries. Beijing denies the claim. The United States has previously imposed restrictions on China's access to advanced chips and chip-making tools that could fuel breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and sophisticated computers for its military. The demand for rare earths, used widely in lasers, military equipment and consumer electronics, has grown with the rapid development of new energy vehicles, wind power and inverter air conditioners. "As technology grows in leaps and bounds, some primary minerals have become rare strategic resources," a police character in the comic said. "China boasts rich resources of these minerals. Overseas organisations have already had their eyes on them." Set in fictional Xishan Mining Area - described as an area rich in critical and scarce mineral deposits that could bring breakthroughs in super-semiconductor technology - the comic depicts two officers that were sent to the area undercover as lost hikers to gather information. State-controlled Global Times described the comic as underscoring the importance of safeguarding key mineral resources as China-U.S. trade frictions and global geopolitical tensions have turned the global competition for rare earths into an issue of national security. The newspaper said the United States, Japan and the European Union, among others, have for a long time "coveted China's rare earth mineral resources". "They have even resorted to infiltration, bribery, and espionage to achieve their goals," Global Times said, quoting Li Baiyang, an associate professor of intelligence studies at Nanjing University.

China, in comic strip, warns of ‘overseas’ threats to its rare earths

Chinese balloons over Taiwan. Latest balloon sightings come after Taiwan's Presidential polls. Five balloons near city of Keelung and one balloon flies near Pingtung county. China has not ruled out the use of force regarding Taiwan. Watch to know more!

China Spy Balloon: Latest balloon sightings come after Taiwan Presidential polls

<p>Storm Isha, which was set to batter “everybody” in the United Kingdom, as per forecasters&nbsp;led to major flight and train delays, and&nbsp;caused major power outages on&nbsp;Monday (Jan 22).&nbsp;More than 100 flights were cancelled in and out of Dublin airport in Ireland on Sunday (Jan 21) after the storm hit both the countries overnight.</p>

<h2><strong>UK disrupted</strong></h2>

<p>Thousands of people across Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and north-west England spent the night without power after heavy rains and strong winds lashed parts of the country overnight. Northumberland in north-east England recorded gusts of 159 km/h.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK committed to lead a NATO task force in 2024</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-committed-to-lead-a-nato-task-force-in-2024-549359/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>UK Power Networks said it had restored power to most properties which lost electricity in eastern and south eastern England. However, about 45,000 homes in Northern Ireland remained without power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of early Monday, 8,000 homes in north-west England and 3,000 in Wales were also hit with power cuts. Additionally, around 10,500 properties in the north of Scotland were facing power outages and a further 12,000 in southern and central areas.</p>

<p>Scotland was among the worst hit after gusts of over 144 km/h&nbsp;led to&nbsp;cancellation of all train services. Several flights from Edinburgh and Glasgow airports were also cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-isha-uk-braces-for-strong-winds-heavy-rains-amid-rare-weather-cycle-682058">Storm Isha: UK braces for strong winds, heavy rains amid ‘rare’ weather cycle</a></strong></p>

<p>The Met Office issued yellow warning for wind&nbsp;remained in place across the UK until midday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK national weather agency also reiterated its previous warnings of damage to infrastructure, travel disruption, and even injuries and danger to life due to large coastal waves and loose debris flying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strong winds also affected flight routes. An EasyJet flight from Edinburgh to Bristol, on Sunday afternoon had to be diverted to Paris, France. Since the intended journey was domestic, many passengers did not carry their passports and spent the night stranded in the terminal in Charles de Gaulle.</p>

<p>A video of a suitcase being blown away by the wind at Edinburgh airport also went viral.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Suitcases blowing around on the tarmac at Edinburgh airport <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StormIsha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StormIsha</a> <a href="https://t.co/9NoFUSy5Lz">pic.twitter.com/9NoFUSy5Lz</a></p>
— James H (@JamesHampson200) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesHampson200/status/1749202128239812783?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Ferry companies also announced a series of cancellations in the UK. Scotland’s train services will be impacted until Network Rail Scotland has inspected tracks for damage following the storm, said ScotRail, in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Over 100 flights cancelled at Dublin airport</strong></h2>

<p>Several airlines operating in and out of Dublin airport cancelled 102 flights due to the storm. Isha forced 24 aborted landings by 1700 GMT, while 27 flights opted to divert to other airports, Dublin Airport said in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-severe-floods-hit-uk-after-heavy-rain-causes-major-rivers-to-overflow-677593">Severe floods hit UK after heavy rain causes major rivers to overflow</a></strong></p>

<p>Irish weather service Met Eireann has also issued a number of severe weather warnings across the country ahead of the storm, including three red alerts – the highest level – for three counties in the west and northwest parts of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, an orange weather warning was issued on Sunday for most of the country, including Dublin, which indicates that winds could significantly impact people, property and activity in an area.</p>

<p>About 235,000 homes and businesses across Ireland were left without power due to the storm, according to reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Across the North Sea, Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport cancelled 130 flights scheduled for Monday (Jan &nbsp;22) as a preventive measure because of strong winds expected when Storm Isha reaches the Netherlands.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Storm Isha, which was set to batter “everybody” in the United Kingdom, as per forecasters led to major flight and train delays, and caused major power outages on Monday (Jan 22).

Storm Isha, which was set to batter “everybody” in the United Kingdom, as per forecasters led to major flight and train delays, and caused major power outages on Monday (Jan 22). More than 100 flights were cancelled in and out of Dublin airport in Ireland on Sunday (Jan 21) after the storm hit both the countries overnight. UK disrupted Thousands of people across Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and north-west England spent the night without power after heavy rains and strong winds lashed parts of the country overnight. Northumberland in north-east England recorded gusts of 159 km/h. WATCH | UK committed to lead a NATO task force in 2024 UK Power Networks said it had restored power to most properties which lost electricity in eastern and south eastern England. However, about 45,000 homes in Northern Ireland remained without power. As of early Monday, 8,000 homes in north-west England and 3,000 in Wales were also hit with power cuts. Additionally, around 10,500 properties in the north of Scotland were facing power outages and a further 12,000 in southern and central areas. Scotland was among the worst hit after gusts of over 144 km/h led to cancellation of all train services. Several flights from Edinburgh and Glasgow airports were also cancelled. ALSO READ | Storm Isha: UK braces for strong winds, heavy rains amid ‘rare’ weather cycle The Met Office issued yellow warning for wind remained in place across the UK until midday. The UK national weather agency also reiterated its previous warnings of damage to infrastructure, travel disruption, and even injuries and danger to life due to large coastal waves and loose debris flying. The strong winds also affected flight routes. An EasyJet flight from Edinburgh to Bristol, on Sunday afternoon had to be diverted to Paris, France. Since the intended journey was domestic, many passengers did not carry their passports and spent the night stranded in the terminal in Charles de Gaulle. A video of a suitcase being blown away by the wind at Edinburgh airport also went viral. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media. Suitcases blowing around on the tarmac at Edinburgh airport #StormIsha pic.twitter.com/9NoFUSy5Lz — James H (@JamesHampson200) January 21, 2024 × Ferry companies also announced a series of cancellations in the UK. Scotland’s train services will be impacted until Network Rail Scotland has inspected tracks for damage following the storm, said ScotRail, in a post on X. Over 100 flights cancelled at Dublin airport Several airlines operating in and out of Dublin airport cancelled 102 flights due to the storm. Isha forced 24 aborted landings by 1700 GMT, while 27 flights opted to divert to other airports, Dublin Airport said in a post on X. ALSO READ | Severe floods hit UK after heavy rain causes major rivers to overflow Irish weather service Met Eireann has also issued a number of severe weather warnings across the country ahead of the storm, including three red alerts – the highest level – for three counties in the west and northwest parts of the country. Additionally, an orange weather warning was issued on Sunday for most of the country, including Dublin, which indicates that winds could significantly impact people, property and activity in an area. About 235,000 homes and businesses across Ireland were left without power due to the storm, according to reports. Across the North Sea, Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport cancelled 130 flights scheduled for Monday (Jan 22) as a preventive measure because of strong winds expected when Storm Isha reaches the Netherlands. (With inputs from agencies)

Storm Isha: Thousands left without power in UK, Ireland; over 100 flights cancelled at Dublin airport

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidb5hwzPmVErSn" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Sunday (Jan 21) withdrew from the upcoming United States presidential race and endorsed his fellow Republican Donald Trump. DeSantis, 45, had been widely seen as a top contender for the Republican nomination and a natural heir to Trump due to his combative style and deeply conservative views. However, he dropped out of the race, nearly a week after Vivek Ramaswamy ended his presidential bid.</p>

<p>According to a report by&nbsp;news agency Reuters, DeSantis' support had been declining in recent months due to flawed campaign strategy, his seeming lack of ease with voters on the campaign trail, and Trump's so far unshakeable hold on much of the party's base.</p>

<p>"We've had disagreements with Donald Trump, such as on the coronavirus pandemic and his elevation of Anthony Fauci. Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden. That is clear. I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee, and I will honour that pledge," DeSantis said on Sunday as he announced his suspension from the presidential campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ron-desantis-drops-out-of-us-presidential-race-extends-support-to-trump-682197">Ron DeSantis drops out of US presidential race, extends support to Trump</a></strong></p>

<p>"He (Trump) has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican Guard of yesteryear, a repackage formed of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents," the Florida governor added.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Ron DeSantis?</strong></h2>

<p>DeSantis was born in Jacksonville, Florida on Sept 14, 1978. After completing his schooling, DeSantis studied for his bachelor's in history at Yale University, graduating in 2001, and then went on to study at Harvard Law School, graduating in 2005.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-ramaswamy-quits-2024-us-presidential-race-who-is-the-republican-680422">Who is Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican who exited 2024 US presidential race?</a></strong></p>

<p>While at Harvard Law School, he was commissioned as an officer in the US Navy and, upon graduation, joined the service's Judge Advocate General Corps as an attorney.</p>

<p>In that role, DeSantis was assigned to the military prison camp at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where he oversaw the treatment of detainees. Later, he was deployed to Iraq to advise a team of Navy SEALs.</p>

<p>After active-duty service, Ron served as a federal prosecutor. Following his time in the navy, DeSantis along with his two friends from law school, founded a Law School Admission Test (LSAT) preparation company called LSAT Freedom.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Entry in politics</strong></h2>

<p>DeSantis worked briefly as an assistant US attorney in Florida before a successful bid for a US&nbsp;congressional seat in 2012. He served in Congress before running for governor in 2018.</p>

<p>He became Florida's governor in 2019. Reuters reported that DeSantis was largely&nbsp;unknown in Florida when he sought the governor's office and was not favoured to win the Republican nomination. However, an endorsement from Trump, who was then the US president, helped DeSantis ultimately win the election in Nov 2018.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US Elections 2024: Now Nikki Haley to take on Donald Trump</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-2024-now-nikki-haley-to-take-on-donald-trump-682241/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>DeSantis was reelected as governor four years later. Trump has taken credit for DeSantis' win since he endorsed him and accused the Florida governor of being disloyal for considering challenging him for the presidential nomination.</p>

<h2><strong>Views on policies</strong></h2>

<p>DeSantis has opposed many of the policies advocated by the US government to prevent the spread of Covid such as wearing masks and vaccine mandates. Last year, he announced a proposal to ban Covid mandates in Florida. His proposal included permanently banning masks throughout the state, prohibiting mask and vaccine requirements in schools, and prohibiting employers from hiring or firing based on Covid vaccines.</p>

<p>DeSantis is a persistent critic of federal immigration policies. He has pushed the state legislature to pass prohibitions against the teaching of "Critical Race Theory."</p>

<p>The governor has also been embroiled in a public fight with Disney, which had been critical of his efforts to limit school instruction on gender identity.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Sunday (Jan 21) withdrew from the upcoming United States presidential race and endorsed his fellow Republican Donald Trump. DeSantis, 45, had been widely seen as a top contender for the Republican nomination and a natural heir to Trump due to his combative style and deeply conservative views.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Sunday (Jan 21) withdrew from the upcoming United States presidential race and endorsed his fellow Republican Donald Trump. DeSantis, 45, had been widely seen as a top contender for the Republican nomination and a natural heir to Trump due to his combative style and deeply conservative views. However, he dropped out of the race, nearly a week after Vivek Ramaswamy ended his presidential bid. According to a report by news agency Reuters, DeSantis' support had been declining in recent months due to flawed campaign strategy, his seeming lack of ease with voters on the campaign trail, and Trump's so far unshakeable hold on much of the party's base. "We've had disagreements with Donald Trump, such as on the coronavirus pandemic and his elevation of Anthony Fauci. Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden. That is clear. I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee, and I will honour that pledge," DeSantis said on Sunday as he announced his suspension from the presidential campaign. Also read | Ron DeSantis drops out of US presidential race, extends support to Trump "He (Trump) has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican Guard of yesteryear, a repackage formed of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents," the Florida governor added. Who is Ron DeSantis? DeSantis was born in Jacksonville, Florida on Sept 14, 1978. After completing his schooling, DeSantis studied for his bachelor's in history at Yale University, graduating in 2001, and then went on to study at Harvard Law School, graduating in 2005. Also read | Who is Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican who exited 2024 US presidential race? While at Harvard Law School, he was commissioned as an officer in the US Navy and, upon graduation, joined the service's Judge Advocate General Corps as an attorney. In that role, DeSantis was assigned to the military prison camp at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where he oversaw the treatment of detainees. Later, he was deployed to Iraq to advise a team of Navy SEALs. After active-duty service, Ron served as a federal prosecutor. Following his time in the navy, DeSantis along with his two friends from law school, founded a Law School Admission Test (LSAT) preparation company called LSAT Freedom. Entry in politics DeSantis worked briefly as an assistant US attorney in Florida before a successful bid for a US congressional seat in 2012. He served in Congress before running for governor in 2018. He became Florida's governor in 2019. Reuters reported that DeSantis was largely unknown in Florida when he sought the governor's office and was not favoured to win the Republican nomination. However, an endorsement from Trump, who was then the US president, helped DeSantis ultimately win the election in Nov 2018. Also watch | US Elections 2024: Now Nikki Haley to take on Donald Trump × DeSantis was reelected as governor four years later. Trump has taken credit for DeSantis' win since he endorsed him and accused the Florida governor of being disloyal for considering challenging him for the presidential nomination. Views on policies DeSantis has opposed many of the policies advocated by the US government to prevent the spread of Covid such as wearing masks and vaccine mandates. Last year, he announced a proposal to ban Covid mandates in Florida. His proposal included permanently banning masks throughout the state, prohibiting mask and vaccine requirements in schools, and prohibiting employers from hiring or firing based on Covid vaccines. DeSantis is a persistent critic of federal immigration policies. He has pushed the state legislature to pass prohibitions against the teaching of "Critical Race Theory." The governor has also been embroiled in a public fight with Disney, which had been critical of his efforts to limit school instruction on gender identity. (With inputs from agencies)

Ron DeSantis withdraws from 2024 US presidential race. Who is he?

Israel-Hamas war: Talks continue as Netanyahu rejects calls for 2-state solution

<p>Seeking presidential nomination, Donald Trump has once again refused to spell out explicitly if he would help Taiwan in the event China decides to invade the island nation. The former US president in an interview with <em>Fox News </em>was quizzed if, under a hypothetical second Trump&nbsp;presidency, Washington would stand up for Taiwan and protect it when the inadvertent incursion from China comes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Instead of giving a firm answer, Trump showed discontent with Taiwan for taking the lucrative semiconductor business away from the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Taiwan did take all of our chip business. We used to make all of our own chips, now they're made in Taiwan, 90 per cent of [them]...Remember this, Taiwan took, smart, brilliant, they took our business away," said Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netizens interpreted Trump's statement as an indication that he would not come to Taiwan's aid if the situation became worrisome.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If Trump is elected, Taiwan is gone and so is a significant chunk of our semiconductor capacity. Not only is Trump unfit for the office, he's just plain wrong on so many things like this," said one user.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another added: "Trump clearly has made bed with China on the Taiwan issue. Surprising that out of all candidates, he refused to have Taiwan in his corner."<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-businesses-received-millions-in-foreign-payments-while-he-was-in-office-676963"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump businesses received millions in foreign payments while he was in office</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-businesses-received-millions-in-foreign-payments-while-he-was-in-office-676963/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Trump and Biden's&nbsp;stance on Taiwan</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, this is not the first instance when Trump has shown ambiguity on the Taiwan issue. In September last year, during an interview with <em>NBC</em>, Trump was asked if he would send the military to help defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack.</p>

<p>"I won't say, I won't say, because if I said, I'm giving away...you know, only stupid people are going to give that (away)," said Trump whilst taking a jab at Ron DeSantis whom the former president criticised revealing his strategy on key geopolitical issues.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/influenced-by-china-nauru-severs-diplomatic-ties-with-taiwan-680088"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Influenced by China, Nauru severs diplomatic ties with Taiwan</strong></a></p>

<p>China considers Taiwan a part of its territory but the island nation and its people have never accepted Beijing's control. The US follows the One-China principle as well, meaning, it does not have any diplomatic relations with Taipei.</p>

<p>However, US President Joe Biden, on no less than four occasions since 2021, has stated that his government would defend Taipei in case of a potential conflict with China. Washington has also increased its arms sales to Taipei under Biden administration which has irked Beijing. Consequently, experts argue that&nbsp;Biden has been far more transparent regarding his Taiwan policy than his predecessor.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Seeking presidential nomination, Donald Trump has once again refused to spell out explicitly if he would help Taiwan in the event China decides to invade the island nation.

Seeking presidential nomination, Donald Trump has once again refused to spell out explicitly if he would help Taiwan in the event China decides to invade the island nation. The former US president in an interview with Fox News was quizzed if, under a hypothetical second Trump presidency, Washington would stand up for Taiwan and protect it when the inadvertent incursion from China comes. Instead of giving a firm answer, Trump showed discontent with Taiwan for taking the lucrative semiconductor business away from the US. "Taiwan did take all of our chip business. We used to make all of our own chips, now they're made in Taiwan, 90 per cent of [them]...Remember this, Taiwan took, smart, brilliant, they took our business away," said Trump. Netizens interpreted Trump's statement as an indication that he would not come to Taiwan's aid if the situation became worrisome. "If Trump is elected, Taiwan is gone and so is a significant chunk of our semiconductor capacity. Not only is Trump unfit for the office, he's just plain wrong on so many things like this," said one user. Another added: "Trump clearly has made bed with China on the Taiwan issue. Surprising that out of all candidates, he refused to have Taiwan in his corner." Watch | Donald Trump businesses received millions in foreign payments while he was in office × Trump and Biden's stance on Taiwan Notably, this is not the first instance when Trump has shown ambiguity on the Taiwan issue. In September last year, during an interview with NBC, Trump was asked if he would send the military to help defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack. "I won't say, I won't say, because if I said, I'm giving away...you know, only stupid people are going to give that (away)," said Trump whilst taking a jab at Ron DeSantis whom the former president criticised revealing his strategy on key geopolitical issues. Also read | Influenced by China, Nauru severs diplomatic ties with Taiwan China considers Taiwan a part of its territory but the island nation and its people have never accepted Beijing's control. The US follows the One-China principle as well, meaning, it does not have any diplomatic relations with Taipei. However, US President Joe Biden, on no less than four occasions since 2021, has stated that his government would defend Taipei in case of a potential conflict with China. Washington has also increased its arms sales to Taipei under Biden administration which has irked Beijing. Consequently, experts argue that Biden has been far more transparent regarding his Taiwan policy than his predecessor. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump’s indecisive remark on Taiwan sparks concern once again

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ended his 11-day fast on January 22 with the culmination of the historic consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Watch to know more!

Ram Mandir Inauguration: PM Modi takes 'Panchamrit', breaks fast after 'Pran Pratishtha' ritual

<p>Two US Navy SEALs who went missing during an operation to seize Iranian weapons bound for Yemen's Houthi rebels have been declared dead after a 10-day search failed to locate them, the US military said on Sunday.</p>

<p>The Central Command (CENTCOM) had previously said that two SEALs who were reported as lost at sea were involved in the January 11 operation, in which the elite special operations personnel boarded a dhow off the coast of Somalia and seized missile components made in Iran.</p>

<p>"We regret to announce that after a 10-day exhaustive search, our two missing US Navy SEALs have not been located and their status has been changed to deceased," CENTCOM said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The search and rescue operation for the two Navy SEALs reported missing during the boarding of an illicit dhow carrying Iranian advanced conventional weapons... concluded and we are now conducting recovery operations," the statement said.</p>

<p>CENTCOM described the capture of the missile components as "the first seizure of lethal, Iranian-supplied advanced conventional weapons... to the Houthis since the beginning of Houthi attacks against merchant ships in November 2023."</p>

<p>That month, the Houthis began targeting ships in the Red Sea they claimed were linked to Israel -- attacks they said were in support of Palestinians in Gaza, where Israeli forces are battling Hamas.</p>

<p>The United States and Britain carried out strikes on dozens of rebel targets earlier this month, and American forces have since hit a number of missiles that Washington says were ready to launch and posed a threat to both civilian and military vessels.</p>

<p>The Houthis -- who declared American and British interests to be legitimate targets -- are still undeterred, and have continued to carry out attacks on ships.</p>

<p>Around 12 per cent of global trade normally passes through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea's entrance between southwest Yemen and Djibouti, but the rebel attacks have caused much shipping to be diverted thousands of miles around Africa.</p>


Two US Navy SEALs who went missing during an operation to seize Iranian weapons bound for Yemen's Houthi rebels have been declared dead after a 10-day search failed to locate them, the US military said on Sunday.

Two US Navy SEALs who went missing during an operation to seize Iranian weapons bound for Yemen's Houthi rebels have been declared dead after a 10-day search failed to locate them, the US military said on Sunday. The Central Command (CENTCOM) had previously said that two SEALs who were reported as lost at sea were involved in the January 11 operation, in which the elite special operations personnel boarded a dhow off the coast of Somalia and seized missile components made in Iran. "We regret to announce that after a 10-day exhaustive search, our two missing US Navy SEALs have not been located and their status has been changed to deceased," CENTCOM said in a statement. "The search and rescue operation for the two Navy SEALs reported missing during the boarding of an illicit dhow carrying Iranian advanced conventional weapons... concluded and we are now conducting recovery operations," the statement said. CENTCOM described the capture of the missile components as "the first seizure of lethal, Iranian-supplied advanced conventional weapons... to the Houthis since the beginning of Houthi attacks against merchant ships in November 2023." That month, the Houthis began targeting ships in the Red Sea they claimed were linked to Israel -- attacks they said were in support of Palestinians in Gaza, where Israeli forces are battling Hamas. The United States and Britain carried out strikes on dozens of rebel targets earlier this month, and American forces have since hit a number of missiles that Washington says were ready to launch and posed a threat to both civilian and military vessels. The Houthis -- who declared American and British interests to be legitimate targets -- are still undeterred, and have continued to carry out attacks on ships. Around 12 per cent of global trade normally passes through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea's entrance between southwest Yemen and Djibouti, but the rebel attacks have caused much shipping to be diverted thousands of miles around Africa.

US military declares two Navy SEALs lost at sea ‘deceased’

Shattered storefronts, broken glass, civilian casualties, and artillery shells struck a suburb of the Russian occupied Donetsk in Eastern Ukraine on Sunday, killing at least 27 people.

Russia-Ukraine war: Strike on busy market in Russia-held Donetsk, at least 27 killed

More than 100,000 protest across Germany after far-right party discusses plans to deport migrants. UK to spend $46 million on private boats to patrol the English channel for migrants. Watch to know more!

UK to spend $46 million on private boats to patrol for migrants

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu rejects Hamas' call to end Gaza war

<p>A landslide in China's Yunnan province early Monday (Jan 22) killed eight&nbsp;people and forced the evacuation of 200 others. The tragedy occurred at around 6 am local time in the village of Liangshui, under Tangfang in Zhenxiong County, AP news agency reported.</p>

<p>At least 47 people from 18 households were missing. Eight of the missing people were found dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rescue efforts were underway to find victims buried in 18 separate houses, said the county publicity department. The report said the cause of the landslide was not immediately known.</p>

<p>However, photos from the scene appeared to show snow on the ground. A report by Al Jazeera, meanwhile, said that 500 people had been evacuated.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-to-63-as-tanzania-reels-from-flooding-landslides-666312">Death toll rises to 63 as Tanzania reels from flooding, landslides</a></strong></p>

<p>China has experienced a string of natural disasters in recent months. This landslide in Yunnan came just a month after China experienced its most powerful earthquake in years in a remote region between Gansu and Qinghai provinces.</p>

<p>The earthquake, which was of 6.2 magnitude, killed at least 149 people on Dec 18, reducing homes to rubble and triggering heavy mudslides that inundated two villages in Qinghai.</p>

<p>Nearly 1,000 were injured and more than 14,000 homes were destroyed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A landslide in China's Yunnan province early Monday (Jan 22) killed eight people and forced the evacuation of 200 others. The tragedy occurred at around 6 am local time in the village of Liangshui, under Tangfang in Zhenxiong County, AP news agency reported.

A landslide in China's Yunnan province early Monday (Jan 22) killed eight people and forced the evacuation of 200 others. The tragedy occurred at around 6 am local time in the village of Liangshui, under Tangfang in Zhenxiong County, AP news agency reported. At least 47 people from 18 households were missing. Eight of the missing people were found dead. Rescue efforts were underway to find victims buried in 18 separate houses, said the county publicity department. The report said the cause of the landslide was not immediately known. However, photos from the scene appeared to show snow on the ground. A report by Al Jazeera, meanwhile, said that 500 people had been evacuated. Also read: Death toll rises to 63 as Tanzania reels from flooding, landslides China has experienced a string of natural disasters in recent months. This landslide in Yunnan came just a month after China experienced its most powerful earthquake in years in a remote region between Gansu and Qinghai provinces. The earthquake, which was of 6.2 magnitude, killed at least 149 people on Dec 18, reducing homes to rubble and triggering heavy mudslides that inundated two villages in Qinghai. Nearly 1,000 were injured and more than 14,000 homes were destroyed. (With inputs from agencies)

China: Landslide in Yunnan province kills 8 people, hundreds evacuated

<p>A Google software engineer, identified as 27-year-old Liren Chen, has been charged with the murder of his wife in Santa Clara, California. Liren is accused of thrashing his wife to death. The alleged crime was discovered after the police responded to a 911 call from an acquaintance of Chen on January 16.</p>

<h2><strong>Gruesome 'murder scene' discovered</strong></h2>

<p>The police officers reportedly saw the gruesome scene in which Liren Chen was found in the bedroom, "spattered with blood," with his wife's lifeless body behind him. The dead body of Liren Chen's wife reportedly showed severe blunt force injuries to her head.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When seen beside the dead body of his wife, Chen's right hand was reportedly "extremely swollen and purple". He also had blood on his clothing, arms, legs, and hands, along with scratches on his arm.</p>

<p>The concerned acquaintance had reached out to authorities to state that Chen was unresponsive to phone calls and door knocks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Bengaluru based startup's CEO charged with murder of 4-year-old son in Goa, arrested</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bengaluru-based-startups-ceo-charged-with-murder-of-4-year-old-son-in-goa-arrested-678532/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Upon arriving at the scene, the acquaintance described seeing Chen inside the home "motionless on his knees" with his "hands in the air" and "staring blankly", Fox News reported.</p>

<p>The victim, Xuanyi Yu, was also a Google engineer, the tech giant confirmed to Fox News Digital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Liren Chen and Xuanyi Yu were both employees at Google at the time of the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesperson for the company assured support for Yu's family and co-workers and said that they are "shocked and deeply saddened" by what happened to her.</p>

<p>The spokesperson assured support to her family and co-workers "who are processing this tragic news".</p>

<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>If convicted, Liren Chen will face several years of imprisonment, according to Santa Clara police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His arraignment has been postponed as he remains hospitalised due to injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Chen and Yu had studied at China's Tsinghua University and the University of California, San Diego, as indicated by their LinkedIn profiles.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Google software engineer, identified as 27-year-old Liren Chen, has been charged with the murder of his wife in Santa Clara, California. Liren is accused of thrashing his wife to death.

A Google software engineer, identified as 27-year-old Liren Chen, has been charged with the murder of his wife in Santa Clara, California. Liren is accused of thrashing his wife to death. The alleged crime was discovered after the police responded to a 911 call from an acquaintance of Chen on January 16. Gruesome 'murder scene' discovered The police officers reportedly saw the gruesome scene in which Liren Chen was found in the bedroom, "spattered with blood," with his wife's lifeless body behind him. The dead body of Liren Chen's wife reportedly showed severe blunt force injuries to her head. When seen beside the dead body of his wife, Chen's right hand was reportedly "extremely swollen and purple". He also had blood on his clothing, arms, legs, and hands, along with scratches on his arm. The concerned acquaintance had reached out to authorities to state that Chen was unresponsive to phone calls and door knocks. Also watch | Bengaluru based startup's CEO charged with murder of 4-year-old son in Goa, arrested × Upon arriving at the scene, the acquaintance described seeing Chen inside the home "motionless on his knees" with his "hands in the air" and "staring blankly", Fox News reported. The victim, Xuanyi Yu, was also a Google engineer, the tech giant confirmed to Fox News Digital. Liren Chen and Xuanyi Yu were both employees at Google at the time of the incident. A spokesperson for the company assured support for Yu's family and co-workers and said that they are "shocked and deeply saddened" by what happened to her. The spokesperson assured support to her family and co-workers "who are processing this tragic news". What next? If convicted, Liren Chen will face several years of imprisonment, according to Santa Clara police. His arraignment has been postponed as he remains hospitalised due to injuries. Both Chen and Yu had studied at China's Tsinghua University and the University of California, San Diego, as indicated by their LinkedIn profiles. (With inputs from agencies)

Google techie charged with wife's murder after body found 'spattered with blood'

<p>Almost three hours post-landing, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)&nbsp;"switched off" the Moon lander and revealed that "a lot of data has been obtained" during the descent and lunar surface exploration.</p>

<p>"We were able to complete the transmission of technical and image data acquired during the descent and on the lunar surface before the power was switched off... a lot of data has been obtained," the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency&nbsp;(JAXA)&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>This comes after a historic achievement when Japan's 'Moon Sniper' craft, also known as the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM), successfully executed a "soft landing" on the lunar surface on Friday (Jan 19).</p>

<p>This accomplishment solidified Japan as the fifth nation globally to achieve a lunar landing, joining the ranks of the United States, Russia, China, and India.</p>

<p>Additionally, the country's space agency said that there still exists a chance of restoring the lander.</p>

<p>"According to the telemetry data, SLIM's solar cells are facing west. So if sunlight hits the Moon from the west in the future, we believe there's a possibility of power generation, and we're currently preparing for restoration," said the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/surgical-robot-3d-metal-printing-in-space-these-are-nasas-upcoming-science-launches-682218">NASA gears up to send surgical robot, 3D metal printing to space station</a></p>

<p>Notably, India recently celebrated its historic soft landing near the Moon's south pole.</p>

<p>Japan's SLIM faced challenges as its solar cells were not generating sufficient power, but the mission marked a&nbsp;success after two previous lunar mission failures.</p>

<p>The 'Moon Sniper' aimed for a "pinpoint" landing, a challenging task due to the Moon's stronger gravity compared to previous asteroid landings.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-loses-but-regains-contact-with-ingenuity-helicopter-on-mars-682066">NASA regains contact with Ingenuity helicopter on Mars after unexpected outage</a></p>

<p>The landing site, a lunar crater believed to provide access to the lunar mantle beneath the crust, showcased Japan's technological prowess.</p>

<p>JAXA's Hitoshi Kuninaka at the time said, "Communication has been established since landing, but the solar cells are not generating power, and data acquisition from the lunar surface is given priority."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;NASA unveils X-59 plane to test supersonic flight over US cities</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/nasa-unveils-x-59-plane-to-test-supersonic-flight-over-us-cities-679600/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The SLIM operated on onboard batteries, storing landing data for later transmission to Earth.</p>

<p>Russia's lunar landing craft failed just before India's success, and US private firm Astrobotic faced challenges as its Peregrine spacecraft, launched on January 8, encountered an explosion and fuel leak, ultimately unable to land on the Moon.&nbsp;Astrobotic, in collaboration with NASA, adjusted the spacecraft's trajectory. This resulted in a controlled entry into Earth's atmosphere and burning off on January 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Almost three hours post-landing, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) "switched off" the Moon lander and revealed that "a lot of data has been obtained" during the descent and lunar surface exploration.

Almost three hours post-landing, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) "switched off" the Moon lander and revealed that "a lot of data has been obtained" during the descent and lunar surface exploration. "We were able to complete the transmission of technical and image data acquired during the descent and on the lunar surface before the power was switched off... a lot of data has been obtained," the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) said. This comes after a historic achievement when Japan's 'Moon Sniper' craft, also known as the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM), successfully executed a "soft landing" on the lunar surface on Friday (Jan 19). This accomplishment solidified Japan as the fifth nation globally to achieve a lunar landing, joining the ranks of the United States, Russia, China, and India. Additionally, the country's space agency said that there still exists a chance of restoring the lander. "According to the telemetry data, SLIM's solar cells are facing west. So if sunlight hits the Moon from the west in the future, we believe there's a possibility of power generation, and we're currently preparing for restoration," said the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Also Read | NASA gears up to send surgical robot, 3D metal printing to space station Notably, India recently celebrated its historic soft landing near the Moon's south pole. Japan's SLIM faced challenges as its solar cells were not generating sufficient power, but the mission marked a success after two previous lunar mission failures. The 'Moon Sniper' aimed for a "pinpoint" landing, a challenging task due to the Moon's stronger gravity compared to previous asteroid landings. Also Read | NASA regains contact with Ingenuity helicopter on Mars after unexpected outage The landing site, a lunar crater believed to provide access to the lunar mantle beneath the crust, showcased Japan's technological prowess. JAXA's Hitoshi Kuninaka at the time said, "Communication has been established since landing, but the solar cells are not generating power, and data acquisition from the lunar surface is given priority." Watch | NASA unveils X-59 plane to test supersonic flight over US cities × The SLIM operated on onboard batteries, storing landing data for later transmission to Earth. Russia's lunar landing craft failed just before India's success, and US private firm Astrobotic faced challenges as its Peregrine spacecraft, launched on January 8, encountered an explosion and fuel leak, ultimately unable to land on the Moon. Astrobotic, in collaboration with NASA, adjusted the spacecraft's trajectory. This resulted in a controlled entry into Earth's atmosphere and burning off on January 19. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan's Moon sniper switched off, space agency says data transmission completed

<p>Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has come under fire on social media after using the presidential helicopter to attend a Coldplay concert over the weekend. The president and his wife were spotted arriving at the Philippine Arena, north of the capital Manila, on a helicopter on Friday (Jan 19).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘A potential threat to security’</strong></h2>

<p>Following the backlash, the head of Presidential Security Group (PSG), Brig Gen Jesus Nelson Morales, released a statement on Saturday (Jan 20) saying that there was an “unprecedented influx of 40,000 individuals eagerly attending a concert” which resulted in traffic complications.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Philippine President Marcos Junior slammed for using chopper to attend Coldplay concert</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippine-president-marcos-junior-slammed-for-using-chopper-to-attend-coldplay-concert-681995/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The traffic situation posed “a potential threat to the security of our president”, it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The PSG also went on to ask&nbsp;the people for their&nbsp;understanding on the matter. "Continued understanding and support for these measures are crucial in maintaining the safety and well-being of our nation’s leadership," said the PSG.</p>

<h2><strong>Philippines president criticised</strong></h2>

<p>Marcos Jr and his wife Liza Araneta-Marcos were among thousands of fans who attended the concert on Friday at the Philippine Arena, the world’s largest indoor arena, located deep in the suburbs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Images and videos of the first couple emerging from the helicopter drew flak from social media users who criticised the use of taxpayer money by Marcos, the son and namesake of the late strongman president whose rule ended nearly four decades ago following a historic “people power” revolution.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ron-desantis-drops-out-of-us-presidential-race-extends-support-to-trump-682197">Ron DeSantis drops out of US presidential race, extends support to Trump</a></strong></p>

<p>In a column for the Philippine Star, Ana Marie Pamintuan wrote that for the older generations, the incident had revived memories of Marcos’ father and mother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The late dictator Marcos Sr, who ruled the country for two decades was&nbsp;known for his extravagance. Marcos and his family have been accused of plundering billions of dollars during the period.</p>

<p>Activist Renato Reyes described the decision as “a grave insult to millions of Filipino commuters”. He added, “We are faced with a debilitating mass transport crisis that has caused terrible traffic and nightmare commutes for ordinary folks.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>While a Facebook user James Patrick Aristorenas said,&nbsp;“Using official resources, like the presidential chopper, for personal and non-official activities is generally considered an abuse of power or misuse of government resources."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, others pointed out how Marcos Jr’s mode of travel went against Coldplay’s wider efforts to make their show&nbsp;as low-carbon as possible.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How bad is the traffic in Philippines?</strong></h2>

<p>The criticism also came after a survey of 387 cities across 55 countries published on Friday showed that Metro Manila or the National Capital Region (NCR) topped the 2023 TomTom Traffic Index list of metro areas with the slowest travel time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-landslide-in-yunnan-province-buries-47-people-682296">China: Landslide in Yunnan province buries 47 people</a></strong></p>

<p>This has been attributed to old infrastructure and an inadequate public transport system.</p>

<p>During the show, even Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin&nbsp;joked about the traffic in Manila and thanked the audience for making it. “We’ve seen some traffic. But I think you have the number one (traffic) in the world.”</p>

<p>He added, “Thank you for making the effort to come through all of that bullshit to be here.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has come under fire on social media after using the presidential helicopter to attend a Coldplay concert over the weekend.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has come under fire on social media after using the presidential helicopter to attend a Coldplay concert over the weekend. The president and his wife were spotted arriving at the Philippine Arena, north of the capital Manila, on a helicopter on Friday (Jan 19). ‘A potential threat to security’ Following the backlash, the head of Presidential Security Group (PSG), Brig Gen Jesus Nelson Morales, released a statement on Saturday (Jan 20) saying that there was an “unprecedented influx of 40,000 individuals eagerly attending a concert” which resulted in traffic complications. WATCH | Philippine President Marcos Junior slammed for using chopper to attend Coldplay concert The traffic situation posed “a potential threat to the security of our president”, it added. The PSG also went on to ask the people for their understanding on the matter. "Continued understanding and support for these measures are crucial in maintaining the safety and well-being of our nation’s leadership," said the PSG. Philippines president criticised Marcos Jr and his wife Liza Araneta-Marcos were among thousands of fans who attended the concert on Friday at the Philippine Arena, the world’s largest indoor arena, located deep in the suburbs. Images and videos of the first couple emerging from the helicopter drew flak from social media users who criticised the use of taxpayer money by Marcos, the son and namesake of the late strongman president whose rule ended nearly four decades ago following a historic “people power” revolution. ALSO READ | Ron DeSantis drops out of US presidential race, extends support to Trump In a column for the Philippine Star, Ana Marie Pamintuan wrote that for the older generations, the incident had revived memories of Marcos’ father and mother. The late dictator Marcos Sr, who ruled the country for two decades was known for his extravagance. Marcos and his family have been accused of plundering billions of dollars during the period. Activist Renato Reyes described the decision as “a grave insult to millions of Filipino commuters”. He added, “We are faced with a debilitating mass transport crisis that has caused terrible traffic and nightmare commutes for ordinary folks.” While a Facebook user James Patrick Aristorenas said, “Using official resources, like the presidential chopper, for personal and non-official activities is generally considered an abuse of power or misuse of government resources." Meanwhile, others pointed out how Marcos Jr’s mode of travel went against Coldplay’s wider efforts to make their show as low-carbon as possible. How bad is the traffic in Philippines? The criticism also came after a survey of 387 cities across 55 countries published on Friday showed that Metro Manila or the National Capital Region (NCR) topped the 2023 TomTom Traffic Index list of metro areas with the slowest travel time. ALSO READ | China: Landslide in Yunnan province buries 47 people This has been attributed to old infrastructure and an inadequate public transport system. During the show, even Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin joked about the traffic in Manila and thanked the audience for making it. “We’ve seen some traffic. But I think you have the number one (traffic) in the world.” He added, “Thank you for making the effort to come through all of that bullshit to be here.” (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines President Marcos under fire for taking presidential helicopter to Coldplay concert

<p>The cause of a large blast in Iran's Semnan province was determined as a fighter jet breaking the sound barrier on Monday, state media reported.</p>

<p>Iranian state media had earlier said a large explosion was heard at the Garmsar industrial town, the fourth such incident in the province of Semnan in a week, according to semi-official Mehr news agency.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-to-have-identified-bomb-maker-behind-twin-blasts-that-killed-dozens-679140">Iran says 84 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani’s grave</a></strong></p>

<p>"Upon investigating, officials announced that no explosion or smoke was observed from the Garmsar industrial area," state media said.</p>

<p>"It is now known that the cause of the blast was a fighter jet breaking the sound barrier in the area after flying its jet below the permissible speed," state media added, without specifying whether the jet was Iranian.</p>


The cause of a large blast in Iran's Semnan province was determined as a fighter jet breaking the sound barrier on Monday, state media reported. Iranian state media had earlier said a large explosion was heard at the Garmsar industrial town, the fourth such incident in the province of Semnan in a week, according to semi-official Mehr news agency.

The cause of a large blast in Iran's Semnan province was determined as a fighter jet breaking the sound barrier on Monday, state media reported. Iranian state media had earlier said a large explosion was heard at the Garmsar industrial town, the fourth such incident in the province of Semnan in a week, according to semi-official Mehr news agency. ALSO READ | Iran says 84 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani’s grave "Upon investigating, officials announced that no explosion or smoke was observed from the Garmsar industrial area," state media said. "It is now known that the cause of the blast was a fighter jet breaking the sound barrier in the area after flying its jet below the permissible speed," state media added, without specifying whether the jet was Iranian.

Iran: 'Blast' in Semnan province caused by fighter jet breaking sound barrier

<p>An official from the Palestinian militant group Hamas said Israeli people, taken as hostages following the militant group's October 7 attacks, &nbsp;have “no chance” of returning to Israel&nbsp;after&nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Sunday (Jan 21) outright rejected the conditions proposed by the group.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What were Hamas’ conditions?</strong></h2>

<p>Netanyahu outright rejected the conditions put forth by the Palestinian militant group to end the war, which he said included leaving Hamas in power and Israel’s complete withdrawal from the territory.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu against two-state solution, rejects Hamas' call to end war</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-against-two-state-solution-rejects-hamas-call-to-end-war-682247/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"In exchange for the release of our hostages, Hamas demands the end of the war, the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza, the release of all the murderers and rapists and leaving Hamas intact,"&nbsp;said the Israeli PM in a statement.</p>

<p>"I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas," he added.</p>

<p>A senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters that the Israeli leader’s refusal to end the military offensive in Gaza “means there is no chance for the return of the (Israeli) captives.”</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu under pressure</strong></h2>

<p>There has been mounting pressure on the Israeli PM to secure the release of the 136 hostages who remain in Hamas captivity. According to Israeli officials, some 240 people were taken by the Palestinian militant group following the October 7 attacks on Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 100 hostages were released under a deal brokered in late November by the United States, Qatar and Egypt, in exchange for the release of 240 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-personnel-injured-after-ballistic-missile-attack-by-iran-backed-militants-on-airbase-in-iraq-681950">US military personnel injured after ballistic missile attack by Iran-backed militants on airbase in Iraq</a></strong></p>

<p>On Sunday evening, family members of the hostages began a protest outside Netanyahu’s private home in Jerusalem while others&nbsp;camped outside the Israeli PM’s house in Caesarea on Saturday (Jan 20) and planned to stay there until he met&nbsp;them.</p>

<p>Israel’s Hostages and Missing Families Forum said the protesters would remain until “the prime minister agrees to a deal to return the hostages”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They have also demanded&nbsp;that Netanyahu “clearly state that we will not abandon civilians, soldiers, and others kidnapped in the October debacle.”</p>

<p>“We must advance the deal now,” said the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum, adding that “If the prime minister decides to sacrifice the hostages, he should show leadership and honestly share his position with the Israeli public.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu rejects calls for Palestinian state</strong></h2>

<p>In his statement on Sunday, the Israeli PM reiterated his strong line on the issue of Palestinian statehood and said, “I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-continues-to-expand-beyond-gaza-amid-calls-for-palestinian-statehood-681945">Israel-Hamas war continues to expand beyond Gaza with conflict against regional proxies</a></strong></p>

<p>This was a day after Netanyahu pushed back against the United States President Joe Biden’s remarks where he spoke of Palestinian statehood once the war against Hamas in Gaza ends.&nbsp;The Israeli PM, on Sunday, repeated that he would insist upon “full Israeli security control over all the territory west of Jordan.”</p>

<p>He also said that it was his “insistence” that prevented the establishment of a Palestinian state which, according to Netanyahu “would have posed an existential danger to Israel.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>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.</strong></em></p>


An official from the Palestinian militant group Hamas said Israeli people, taken as hostages following the militant group's October 7 attacks, have “no chance” of returning to Israel after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Sunday (Jan 21) outright rejected the conditions proposed by the group.

An official from the Palestinian militant group Hamas said Israeli people, taken as hostages following the militant group's October 7 attacks, have “no chance” of returning to Israel after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Sunday (Jan 21) outright rejected the conditions proposed by the group. What were Hamas’ conditions? Netanyahu outright rejected the conditions put forth by the Palestinian militant group to end the war, which he said included leaving Hamas in power and Israel’s complete withdrawal from the territory. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu against two-state solution, rejects Hamas' call to end war "In exchange for the release of our hostages, Hamas demands the end of the war, the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza, the release of all the murderers and rapists and leaving Hamas intact," said the Israeli PM in a statement. "I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas," he added. A senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters that the Israeli leader’s refusal to end the military offensive in Gaza “means there is no chance for the return of the (Israeli) captives.” Netanyahu under pressure There has been mounting pressure on the Israeli PM to secure the release of the 136 hostages who remain in Hamas captivity. According to Israeli officials, some 240 people were taken by the Palestinian militant group following the October 7 attacks on Israel. More than 100 hostages were released under a deal brokered in late November by the United States, Qatar and Egypt, in exchange for the release of 240 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. ALSO READ | US military personnel injured after ballistic missile attack by Iran-backed militants on airbase in Iraq On Sunday evening, family members of the hostages began a protest outside Netanyahu’s private home in Jerusalem while others camped outside the Israeli PM’s house in Caesarea on Saturday (Jan 20) and planned to stay there until he met them. Israel’s Hostages and Missing Families Forum said the protesters would remain until “the prime minister agrees to a deal to return the hostages”. They have also demanded that Netanyahu “clearly state that we will not abandon civilians, soldiers, and others kidnapped in the October debacle.” “We must advance the deal now,” said the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum, adding that “If the prime minister decides to sacrifice the hostages, he should show leadership and honestly share his position with the Israeli public.” Netanyahu rejects calls for Palestinian state In his statement on Sunday, the Israeli PM reiterated his strong line on the issue of Palestinian statehood and said, “I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River.” ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war continues to expand beyond Gaza with conflict against regional proxies This was a day after Netanyahu pushed back against the United States President Joe Biden’s remarks where he spoke of Palestinian statehood once the war against Hamas in Gaza ends. The Israeli PM, on Sunday, repeated that he would insist upon “full Israeli security control over all the territory west of Jordan.” He also said that it was his “insistence” that prevented the establishment of a Palestinian state which, according to Netanyahu “would have posed an existential danger to Israel.” (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.

Hamas official says ‘no chance’ hostages will return after Netanyahu rejected conditions

<p>We are tracking all the live updates on the grand consecration of the Ram Mandir in the Indian city of Ayodhya on Monday (Jan 22) afternoon. &nbsp;India is eagerly waiting for the consecration of the temple and all preparations including security arrangements are in place. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform the rituals to mark the "Pran Pratishtha" while a team of priests will lead the main rituals.</p>

<p>Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has dropped out of the US presidential race and has endorsed his fellow Republican Donald Trump. DeSantis backed out ahead of the Republican primary election to be held in New Hampshire, where he was polling in the single digits.</p>

<p>In other news from around the world, the Russia-Ukraine war rages on. Twenty seven people were killed and 25 others were&nbsp;injured after Ukrainian forces shelled the Moscow-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-ram-mandir-inauguration-live-temple-consecration-ceremony-pran-pratistha-pm-modi-yogi-news-hd-photos-streaming-22-jan-682119"><strong>Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration Live: Faith rises in Ayodhya as history awaits momentous ceremony</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/22/407149-copy-of-untitled-10-1.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>India is eagerly awaiting&nbsp;the inauguration of the temple as&nbsp;all preparations including security arrangements are in place for the ceremony which will be held later on Monday (Jan 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ron-desantis-drops-out-of-us-presidential-race-extends-support-to-trump-682197"><strong>Ron DeSantis drops out of US presidential race, extends support to Trump</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/22/407121-untitled-design-2024-01-22t081948471.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>Florida Governor Ron Desantis on Sunday (Jan 21) stepped out of the 2024 presidential race and backed former US president Donald Trump.&nbsp;Desantis backed out ahead of the Republican primary election to be held in New Hampshire, where the leader was polling in the single digits.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-25-killed-20-injured-after-ukraine-shells-russian-controlled-city-of-donetsk-682073"><strong>At least 27 killed after Ukraine shells Russian-controlled Donetsk; Moscow calls it ‘barbaric terrorist act’</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/21/407060-wion-images-2024-01-21t180406650.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>At least 27&nbsp;people were&nbsp;killed and 25&nbsp;others&nbsp;injured in Ukrainian&nbsp;shelling of&nbsp;the Moscow-controlled city&nbsp;Donetsk, on Sunday (Jan 21) said the city’s Russia-installed mayor.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bilkis-bano-case-all-eleven-convicts-surrender-after-supreme-courts-order-682211"><strong>Bilkis Bano case: All eleven convicts surrender after Supreme Court's order against early release</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/30/314682-fiy7n5hayaacsoi.jpeg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>Eleven men convicted of the brutal mass sexual assault of Gujarat woman Bilkis Bano surrendered at a Godhra prison after the Supreme Court's mandated two-week deadline set for January 8.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu rejects Hamas' call to end war</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israeli-prime-minister-netanyahu-rejects-hamas-call-to-end-war-682239/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


We are tracking all the live updates on the grand consecration of the Ram Mandir in the Indian city of Ayodhya on Monday (Jan 22) afternoon. India is eagerly waiting for the consecration of the temple and all preparations including security arrangements are in place.

We are tracking all the live updates on the grand consecration of the Ram Mandir in the Indian city of Ayodhya on Monday (Jan 22) afternoon. India is eagerly waiting for the consecration of the temple and all preparations including security arrangements are in place. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform the rituals to mark the "Pran Pratishtha" while a team of priests will lead the main rituals. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has dropped out of the US presidential race and has endorsed his fellow Republican Donald Trump. DeSantis backed out ahead of the Republican primary election to be held in New Hampshire, where he was polling in the single digits. In other news from around the world, the Russia-Ukraine war rages on. Twenty seven people were killed and 25 others were injured after Ukrainian forces shelled the Moscow-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine on Sunday. Click on the headlines to read more: Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration Live: Faith rises in Ayodhya as history awaits momentous ceremony India is eagerly awaiting the inauguration of the temple as all preparations including security arrangements are in place for the ceremony which will be held later on Monday (Jan 22). Ron DeSantis drops out of US presidential race, extends support to Trump Florida Governor Ron Desantis on Sunday (Jan 21) stepped out of the 2024 presidential race and backed former US president Donald Trump. Desantis backed out ahead of the Republican primary election to be held in New Hampshire, where the leader was polling in the single digits. At least 27 killed after Ukraine shells Russian-controlled Donetsk; Moscow calls it ‘barbaric terrorist act’ At least 27 people were killed and 25 others injured in Ukrainian shelling of the Moscow-controlled city Donetsk, on Sunday (Jan 21) said the city’s Russia-installed mayor. Bilkis Bano case: All eleven convicts surrender after Supreme Court's order against early release Eleven men convicted of the brutal mass sexual assault of Gujarat woman Bilkis Bano surrendered at a Godhra prison after the Supreme Court's mandated two-week deadline set for January 8. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu rejects Hamas' call to end war ×

Morning brief: Ram Mandir inauguration updates, DeSantis drops out of US prez race, and more

A 14-year-old Maldivian boy died on Saturday amid allegations that President Mohammed Muizzu denied permission for the use of an Indian Dornier aircraft that could have potentially saved his life.

Maldives: Boy dies after President Muizzu denies Indian helicopter airlift

The United Nations has revealed shocking statistics that show every hour, two mothers are being killed in Gaza. A UN report examining the gendered impact of the ongoing war highlights how women and children are becoming the first victims of the war. Out of 24,900 killed in Gaza so far, at least 16,000 of the victims have been women & children. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Children, women becoming first victims of the Gaza war, says UN

<p>In a pivotal diplomatic move, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is set to embark on a significant visit to India in the third week of February. This visit comes as both nations seek to bolster their ties further, building on the momentum created by&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's key visit to Greece last year - the first by an Indian Prime Minister in four decades.</p>

<p>During PM Modi's visit, India and Greece elevated their relationship to a 'Strategic Partnership". Ties encompass various areas from connectivity to maritime collaboration. The strategic significance of Greece's Piraeus port has come to the forefront, with the potential to serve as a key hub in the India-Middle East-Europe (IMEEC) corridor, enhancing trade and connectivity.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | This World: Iran conducted strikes in Balochistan | Iran-Pakistan Tensions</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-court-walkers-poppadoms-are-potato-chips-681883/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Notably, the military cooperation between the two nations has witnessed a notable upswing. The Indian Air Force's active participation in the INIOCHOS-23 multinational air exercise, hosted by the Hellenic Air Force, showcased the growing partnership in defense capabilities. Furthermore, the Indian Navy's INS Chennai engaged in a Passage Exercise with the Hellenic Naval Ship Nikiforos Fokas during a visit to Souda Bay, Crete, strengthening maritime collaboration.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-myanmar-border-to-be-protected-by-barbed-fencing-to-curb-influx-of-illegal-migrants-says-amit-shah-681896">Barbed fencing on Indo-Myanmar border soon to curb influx of illegal migrants, says Amit Shah</a></strong></p>

<p>The diplomatic camaraderie extends beyond military manoeuvres, with both nations finding common ground on core international issues. India and Greece have consistently been aligned in their mutual support on issues such as Kashmir and Cyprus. The country also backs Indian bid for a permanent seat on an expanded United Nations Security Council and this underscores their support to Indian on the international forum.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-defence-minister-hints-china-might-weaponise-weather-for-strategic-gains-681866">Indian defence minister hints China might weaponise weather for strategic gains</a></strong></p>

<p>The Indian community in Greece, numbering between 13,000 to 14,000, acts as a vital bridge between the two countries, fostering people-to-people connections. Historically rooted, the relationship between the 2 countries dates back to the era of Mauryan kings and Alexander the Great. The enduring ties are exemplified by ancient coinage, writings, and the echoes of World Wars, with over 500 soldiers from undivided India resting in Greek soil as a poignant reminder of shared sacrifices.</p>


In a pivotal diplomatic move, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is set to embark on a significant visit to India in the third week of February. This visit comes as both nations seek to bolster their ties further, building on the momentum created by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's key visit to Greece last year - the first by an Indian Prime Minister in four decades.

In a pivotal diplomatic move, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is set to embark on a significant visit to India in the third week of February. This visit comes as both nations seek to bolster their ties further, building on the momentum created by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's key visit to Greece last year - the first by an Indian Prime Minister in four decades. During PM Modi's visit, India and Greece elevated their relationship to a 'Strategic Partnership". Ties encompass various areas from connectivity to maritime collaboration. The strategic significance of Greece's Piraeus port has come to the forefront, with the potential to serve as a key hub in the India-Middle East-Europe (IMEEC) corridor, enhancing trade and connectivity. Watch | This World: Iran conducted strikes in Balochistan | Iran-Pakistan Tensions × Notably, the military cooperation between the two nations has witnessed a notable upswing. The Indian Air Force's active participation in the INIOCHOS-23 multinational air exercise, hosted by the Hellenic Air Force, showcased the growing partnership in defense capabilities. Furthermore, the Indian Navy's INS Chennai engaged in a Passage Exercise with the Hellenic Naval Ship Nikiforos Fokas during a visit to Souda Bay, Crete, strengthening maritime collaboration. Also Read | Barbed fencing on Indo-Myanmar border soon to curb influx of illegal migrants, says Amit Shah The diplomatic camaraderie extends beyond military manoeuvres, with both nations finding common ground on core international issues. India and Greece have consistently been aligned in their mutual support on issues such as Kashmir and Cyprus. The country also backs Indian bid for a permanent seat on an expanded United Nations Security Council and this underscores their support to Indian on the international forum. Also Read | Indian defence minister hints China might weaponise weather for strategic gains The Indian community in Greece, numbering between 13,000 to 14,000, acts as a vital bridge between the two countries, fostering people-to-people connections. Historically rooted, the relationship between the 2 countries dates back to the era of Mauryan kings and Alexander the Great. The enduring ties are exemplified by ancient coinage, writings, and the echoes of World Wars, with over 500 soldiers from undivided India resting in Greek soil as a poignant reminder of shared sacrifices.

Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis to travel to India in February

world

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

world news