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Sriram Raghavan's films are usually engaging thrillers. His latest Merry Christmas spans over a night in Bombay when the city is making merry to ring in Christmas. But what makes the film unique is it's unusual lead pair - Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethipathi who star opposite each other for the first time. Are they able to create magic onscreen? Watch Critically Speaking to find out.

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Israel-Hamas war | Israeli strikes continue to pound Gaza

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken raised concerns over human rights in&nbsp;China&nbsp;and urged “maintaining peace and stability” in the Taiwan Strait, during a meeting with senior Chinese official Liu Jianchao in Washington, said the State Department.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting took place hours before (Washington time) Taiwan headed to presidential and parliamentary elections, on Saturday (Jan 13).&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What did the officials discuss?</h2>

<p>“The two sides had a constructive discussion on a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues, including areas of potential cooperation and areas of difference,” said State Department spokesman Matthew Miller, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington and Beijing have held regular discussions recently to keep communication lines open between the world’s two largest economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting is the latest in a flurry of engagements between the two nations following the summit between US President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in San Francisco, California.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Taiwan Elections 2024: Polling underway in Taiwan to elect the new President</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-elections-2024-polling-underway-in-taiwan-to-elect-the-new-president-679532/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>According to the state department, the two officials also discussed North Korea, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the situation in the Red Sea and the Middle East.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Discussions about Taiwan</strong></h2>

<p>During the recent meeting, Washington’s top diplomat asked Beijing to maintain cross-strait stability as Taiwan headed to polls to choose a new president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Secretary reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the South China Sea,” said Miller.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent weeks, China has ramped up pressure on the self-ruled island which Beijing has claimed as its own territory – a claim that Taiwan’s incumbent government has repeatedly rejected.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-spy-balloons-to-psychological-warfare-how-china-is-piling-pressure-on-taiwan-ahead-of-election-679264">Taiwan election: From 'spy' balloons to psychological warfare, China is piling on pressure</a></strong></p>

<p>The elections come amid Chinese balloons hovering over Taiwan and Xi’s New Year&nbsp;address&nbsp;calling&nbsp;China’s “reunification” with Taiwan inevitable.</p>

<p>The presidential frontrunner and Vice President from Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Lai Ching-te, who&nbsp;supports Taiwan’s separate identity recently accused China of trying to undermine the election and said that it is engaging in “unprecedented” levels of interference.</p>

<p>However, US officials have reportedly said that they do not see Chinese statements and actions as out of the ordinary for a Taiwan election.</p>

<p>The United States has “deep confidence in Taiwan’s democratic process and believe it is for Taiwan voters to decide their next leader free from outside interference,” State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said Thursday (Jan 11).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-elections-2024-why-results-of-these-polls-are-crucial-for-global-economy-679479">Taiwan Elections 2024: Why results of these polls are crucial for global economy</a></strong></p>

<p>American support for Taiwan’s self-ruled status is especially strong in the US Congress, where the Senate on Thursday unanimously passed a resolution hailing the “example it (Taiwan) has set for self-governance, not just for the Pacific region, but for the world.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US Secretary of State Antony Blinken raised concerns over human rights in China and urged “maintaining peace and stability” in the Taiwan Strait, during a meeting with senior Chinese official Liu Jianchao in Washington, said the State Department.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken raised concerns over human rights in China and urged “maintaining peace and stability” in the Taiwan Strait, during a meeting with senior Chinese official Liu Jianchao in Washington, said the State Department. The meeting took place hours before (Washington time) Taiwan headed to presidential and parliamentary elections, on Saturday (Jan 13). What did the officials discuss? “The two sides had a constructive discussion on a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues, including areas of potential cooperation and areas of difference,” said State Department spokesman Matthew Miller, in a statement. Washington and Beijing have held regular discussions recently to keep communication lines open between the world’s two largest economies. The meeting is the latest in a flurry of engagements between the two nations following the summit between US President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in San Francisco, California. WATCH | Taiwan Elections 2024: Polling underway in Taiwan to elect the new President According to the state department, the two officials also discussed North Korea, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the situation in the Red Sea and the Middle East. Discussions about Taiwan During the recent meeting, Washington’s top diplomat asked Beijing to maintain cross-strait stability as Taiwan headed to polls to choose a new president. “The Secretary reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the South China Sea,” said Miller. In recent weeks, China has ramped up pressure on the self-ruled island which Beijing has claimed as its own territory – a claim that Taiwan’s incumbent government has repeatedly rejected. ALSO READ | Taiwan election: From 'spy' balloons to psychological warfare, China is piling on pressure The elections come amid Chinese balloons hovering over Taiwan and Xi’s New Year address calling China’s “reunification” with Taiwan inevitable. The presidential frontrunner and Vice President from Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Lai Ching-te, who supports Taiwan’s separate identity recently accused China of trying to undermine the election and said that it is engaging in “unprecedented” levels of interference. However, US officials have reportedly said that they do not see Chinese statements and actions as out of the ordinary for a Taiwan election. The United States has “deep confidence in Taiwan’s democratic process and believe it is for Taiwan voters to decide their next leader free from outside interference,” State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said Thursday (Jan 11). ALSO READ | Taiwan Elections 2024: Why results of these polls are crucial for global economy American support for Taiwan’s self-ruled status is especially strong in the US Congress, where the Senate on Thursday unanimously passed a resolution hailing the “example it (Taiwan) has set for self-governance, not just for the Pacific region, but for the world.” (With inputs from agencies)

US' Blinken discusses human rights with Chinese official, urges Beijing to maintain cross-strait stability

Rishi Sunak has vowed that Ukraine "will never be alone" as the UK announced £2.5bn of military aid to Ukraine over the coming year.

UK PM Sunak announces $3.2 billion aid for Ukraine in Kyiv

Using military threats, diplomatic pressure, fake news and financial inducements for politicians, China is being accused of deploying a broad strategy to influence voters in Taiwan’s elections to pick candidates who favor unification. WION tells you more in this report.

Taiwan Elections 2024: Taiwan accuses China of military threats, fake news and financial users

<p>In a remarkable encounter near Koh He in Phuket, passengers aboard the boat 'Happy Ours'&nbsp;found themselves in the presence of a rarely seen marine marvel: a white Omura's whale. Little did they know that they might have been among the first in the world to witness this extraordinary sight. Marine biologists later confirmed this unprecedented occurrence.</p>

<h2><strong>Possible world’s first-ever sighting</strong></h2>

<p>Marine biologist and Kasetsart University lecturer Thon Thamrongnawasawat expressed his excitement on Facebook, stating that the detailed information provided by the observers strongly suggested that it was indeed an Omura's whale.</p>

<p>This revelation sparked the possibility that this could be the world's first-ever sighting of a white Omura's whale, a species known for its elusiveness.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/disaster-is-coming-panic-in-thailand-after-fishermen-caught-earthquake-fish-677201">Also read |&nbsp;‘Disaster is coming,’ Panic in Thailand after fishermen caught ‘earthquake fish’</a></p>

<h2><strong>Omura's whale vs&nbsp;Bruda whale</strong></h2>

<p>Distinguishing between Omura's whales and Bruda whales can be challenging, but Professor Thon shed light on a key difference while speaking to the Bangkok Post.&nbsp;Omura's whales exhibit a single defined ridge on the front of their heads, whereas Bruda whales feature three. This crucial detail helped confirm the identity of the spotted whale.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p>About nine&nbsp;kilometres&nbsp;south of the Koh He coast, a person&nbsp;on the 'Happy Ours' boat spotted two Omura's whales at approximately 4 pm on New Year's Day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-seeks-public-opinion-as-it-moves-to-ban-recreational-cannabis-use-after-historic-decriminalisation-678708">Also read |&nbsp;Thailand seeks public opinion as it moves to ban recreational cannabis use, after historic decriminalisation</a></p>

<p>Omura's whales, classified as a rare species primarily inhabiting Southeast Asian seas and waters south of Japan, have occasionally been sighted in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.</p>

<p>However, they are more commonly observed in the Andaman Sea. Professor Thon emphasised the rarity of a white Omura's whale, describing the probability of such an encounter as about one in 10 million or even more.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Myanmar nationals residing in Japan, Thailand to pay income tax: Junta's new rule</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-nationals-residing-in-japan-thailand-to-pay-income-tax-juntas-new-rule-677694/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In a separate incident near Phi Phi island, a group of tourists reported a 7-metre&nbsp;white whale. Authorities are currently working to verify the species. Recognising the significance of these rare sightings, authorities are urging caution among tour boats and vessels navigating areas where Omura's whales are present.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a remarkable encounter near Koh He in Phuket, passengers aboard the boat 'Happy Ours' found themselves in the presence of a rarely seen marine marvel: a white Omura's whale.

In a remarkable encounter near Koh He in Phuket, passengers aboard the boat 'Happy Ours' found themselves in the presence of a rarely seen marine marvel: a white Omura's whale. Little did they know that they might have been among the first in the world to witness this extraordinary sight. Marine biologists later confirmed this unprecedented occurrence. Possible world’s first-ever sighting Marine biologist and Kasetsart University lecturer Thon Thamrongnawasawat expressed his excitement on Facebook, stating that the detailed information provided by the observers strongly suggested that it was indeed an Omura's whale. This revelation sparked the possibility that this could be the world's first-ever sighting of a white Omura's whale, a species known for its elusiveness. Also read | ‘Disaster is coming,’ Panic in Thailand after fishermen caught ‘earthquake fish’ Omura's whale vs Bruda whale Distinguishing between Omura's whales and Bruda whales can be challenging, but Professor Thon shed light on a key difference while speaking to the Bangkok Post. Omura's whales exhibit a single defined ridge on the front of their heads, whereas Bruda whales feature three. This crucial detail helped confirm the identity of the spotted whale. Watch the video here: × About nine kilometres south of the Koh He coast, a person on the 'Happy Ours' boat spotted two Omura's whales at approximately 4 pm on New Year's Day. Also read | Thailand seeks public opinion as it moves to ban recreational cannabis use, after historic decriminalisation Omura's whales, classified as a rare species primarily inhabiting Southeast Asian seas and waters south of Japan, have occasionally been sighted in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. However, they are more commonly observed in the Andaman Sea. Professor Thon emphasised the rarity of a white Omura's whale, describing the probability of such an encounter as about one in 10 million or even more. Also watch | Myanmar nationals residing in Japan, Thailand to pay income tax: Junta's new rule In a separate incident near Phi Phi island, a group of tourists reported a 7-metre white whale. Authorities are currently working to verify the species. Recognising the significance of these rare sightings, authorities are urging caution among tour boats and vessels navigating areas where Omura's whales are present. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Rare albino whale spotted for the first time in Thailand

Do you remember the iconic chick flick 'Mean Girls'? In 2004,Paramount introduced us to four girls, Regina George, Cady Heron, Gretchen Wieners and Karen Smith, who became iconic definitions of feminine power. 10 years later these girls and back and this time with a musical. Can writer Tina Fey make 'fetch' happen again ? Watch more in this latest episode of WION.

Revisiting the Mean Girls, As Tina Fey makes a 'fetching' return with a musical

On Inside South Asia this week with Dasuni Athauda Maldives scrambles as its relations with India nosedives Bangladesh and Bhutan Kickstart Election Season 2024. Three months after the Herat Earthquake, survivors still struggle to build their lives How Climate Adaptation projects in Bangladesh and Pakistan tackling flood situations And Hope for India at Oscars remains alive as '12th Fail' makes it to the best picture long list

It's India Vs Maldives | Why Bhutan election matters

Boeing is all set to face more regulatory scrutiny in the U.S. The federal aviation administration is all set to intensify oversight of the plane maker. The plane maker is in the eye of the storm after a panel broke off a new jet in mid-flight. The federal aviation administration sees the incident as part of the larger "manufacturing problems" at Boeing.

US Aviation watchdog to intensify oversight of plane maker

<p>Court cases are tense no matter the issue they are about. The presiding judges maintain strict silence and protocol as lawyers from both sides bring in their knowledge and expertise in order to win the case using smallest of the legal provisions, manoeuvres or loopholes as the case may be. And when it comes to International Court of Justice (ICJ) deliberating on cases of great global importance, the stakes can't be any higher.</p>

<p>It is precisely because of this, when an international lawyer makes a gaffe or a 'silly error' it becomes the talk of the town. And in the social media age, this means global trolling.</p>

<p>Not that his competence or legal expertise was called into question, but British lawyer Malcolm Shaw, one of those representing the Israeli side in the ongoing 'genocide' case in the ICJ, has a 'whoops' moment just when he was in the middle of presenting his argument in the case that involves some serious charges against Israel.</p>

<p>As he carefully and methodically presented what he wanted to say in the matter, the courtroom was silent and attentive to the extent that even a pindrop could be heard. The panel of judges looked at documents, possibly thinking about finer points of International Law and its applications in the context of Israel-Hamas war, expecting strong argument from Shaw...when he just stopped talking.</p>

<p>All eyes were suddenly on Shaw as the continuous stream of proceedings suddenly stopped. And they saw him going through his papers.</p>

<p>A lawyer messing around with the papers in an international court may be a rare sight as everyone is expected to be in tip-top form backed by their painstaking preparation beforehand, but Shaw started looking at his papers, clearly not finding what he was meant to.</p>

<p>"Excuse me....I've lost the page," he can be heard saying in the video recording of the court proceedings.</p>

<p>"Well, someone has shuffled my papers," he added as he looked at page after page.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-red-sea-but-a-sea-of-blood-erdogan-lashes-out-at-us-uk-air-strikes-in-yemen-679562">Turning Red Sea to 'sea of blood': Erdogan lashes out at US, UK air strikes in Yemen</a></strong></p>

<p>He definitely did not break any law or rule and any legal representative has a right to take time to go through their documentation during the court proceedings. But ICJ is such a haloed place that this small error appeared to amuse social media users.</p>

<p>Watch the full video here.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“Someone has shuffled my papers.”<br />
<br />
Malcolm Shaw, Israel's defence representative at the International Court of Justice and British international legal expert, lost his papers during his statement today in The Hague <a href="https://t.co/oYOyDKLJ99">pic.twitter.com/oYOyDKLJ99</a></p>
— Middle East Eye (@MiddleEastEye) <a href="https://twitter.com/MiddleEastEye/status/1745939736634470457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>What's the case about?</strong></h2>

<p>The emergency case has been launched by South Africa against Israel in the ICJ saying that the latter has breached the UN Genocide Convention in the ongoing war. In simpler terms, Israel has been accused of a 'genocide'. South Africa wants the ICJ to compel Israel to immediately stop its military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in death of at least 23,469 people so far, according to the figures of the&nbsp;Hamas-run health ministry in the enclave.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US-UK Airstrikes on Yemen: Will retaliate if Houthis continue outrageous behavior, says Biden</strong></p>

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<p>Israel has strongly denied charges of genocide.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Court cases are tense no matter the issue they are about. The presiding judges maintain strict silence and protocol as lawyers from both sides bring in their knowledge and expertise in order to win the case using smallest of the legal provisions, manoeuvres or loopholes as the case may be.

Court cases are tense no matter the issue they are about. The presiding judges maintain strict silence and protocol as lawyers from both sides bring in their knowledge and expertise in order to win the case using smallest of the legal provisions, manoeuvres or loopholes as the case may be. And when it comes to International Court of Justice (ICJ) deliberating on cases of great global importance, the stakes can't be any higher. It is precisely because of this, when an international lawyer makes a gaffe or a 'silly error' it becomes the talk of the town. And in the social media age, this means global trolling. Not that his competence or legal expertise was called into question, but British lawyer Malcolm Shaw, one of those representing the Israeli side in the ongoing 'genocide' case in the ICJ, has a 'whoops' moment just when he was in the middle of presenting his argument in the case that involves some serious charges against Israel. As he carefully and methodically presented what he wanted to say in the matter, the courtroom was silent and attentive to the extent that even a pindrop could be heard. The panel of judges looked at documents, possibly thinking about finer points of International Law and its applications in the context of Israel-Hamas war, expecting strong argument from Shaw...when he just stopped talking. All eyes were suddenly on Shaw as the continuous stream of proceedings suddenly stopped. And they saw him going through his papers. A lawyer messing around with the papers in an international court may be a rare sight as everyone is expected to be in tip-top form backed by their painstaking preparation beforehand, but Shaw started looking at his papers, clearly not finding what he was meant to. "Excuse me....I've lost the page," he can be heard saying in the video recording of the court proceedings. "Well, someone has shuffled my papers," he added as he looked at page after page. Also Read | Turning Red Sea to 'sea of blood': Erdogan lashes out at US, UK air strikes in Yemen He definitely did not break any law or rule and any legal representative has a right to take time to go through their documentation during the court proceedings. But ICJ is such a haloed place that this small error appeared to amuse social media users. Watch the full video here. “Someone has shuffled my papers.” Malcolm Shaw, Israel's defence representative at the International Court of Justice and British international legal expert, lost his papers during his statement today in The Hague pic.twitter.com/oYOyDKLJ99 — Middle East Eye (@MiddleEastEye) January 12, 2024 × What's the case about? The emergency case has been launched by South Africa against Israel in the ICJ saying that the latter has breached the UN Genocide Convention in the ongoing war. In simpler terms, Israel has been accused of a 'genocide'. South Africa wants the ICJ to compel Israel to immediately stop its military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in death of at least 23,469 people so far, according to the figures of the Hamas-run health ministry in the enclave. Watch | US-UK Airstrikes on Yemen: Will retaliate if Houthis continue outrageous behavior, says Biden × Israel has strongly denied charges of genocide. (With inputs from agencies)

Someone shuffled my papers: Video of Israel lawyer fumbling in ICJ amuses netizens

Citigroup inc. said it expects to incur as much as $1 billion in severance and reorganization costs this year as it continues the process of eliminating 20,000 roles as part of Chief Executive Officer Jane Fraser’s quest to boost the Wall Street giant’s lagging returns.

Job cuts at Citibank: 20,000 roles to be axed by Wall Street giant

December saw the weakest rate of loan growth in China's history as the country's borrowing demand is still negatively impacted by poor business confidence. The central bank said that loans denominated in Chinese yuan increased by 10.4% during the month, the smallest growth in the data going back to 2003.

Weak business confidence continues to weigh on China

Taiwan heads to the polls to choose its next leader in a high-stakes presidential election, polls opened at 8:00 AM local time at nearly 18,000 locations. Taiwan has slammed China for allegedly intimidating its citizens and attempting to influence the island's elections on Saturday. Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu criticized China's "repeated interference" in the impending elections on Thursday, accusing Beijing of "once again blatantly intimidating the Taiwanese people and the international community".

Taiwan Elections 2024: Early trends show DPP candidate leading

Taiwan's high-stakes presidential election: Polls opened at 8:00 AM local time at nearly 18,000 locations. Polls closed at 4:00 PM local time at nearly 18,000 locations. Poll closely watched as China steps up its rhetoric over self-ruled island. Watch to know more!

Taiwan Presidential Election: Counting underway in Taiwan’s pivotal presidential election

Every year, the World Economic Forum releases a sobering assessment of the biggest threats facing the planet. This year's report is no different, with a stark warning about the dangers of disinformation, climate change, and geopolitical instability.

Global risks report unveils urgent threats

Archaeologists uncover lost cities in Ecuador. Huge network of ancient cities uncovered in Amazon. Upano valley is home to oldest settlements in Amazon. Experts deployed remote sensing method for investigation. Lidar uses laser lights to detect structures below tree canopies. Watch to know more!

Ecuador: 2000-year-old cities found in Upano valley, Pre-Hispanic settlement discovered

The US space agency NASA has presented its new supersonic aircraft X-59 to the public for the first time. NASA also revealed that the X-59, an experimental aircraft that is expected to fly at 1.4 times the speed of sound – or 925mph (1,488 km/h).

NASA unveils X-59 plane to test supersonic flight over US cities

Taiwan Presidential Election: Polls closed at nearly 18,000 locations, vote counting underway

<p>Taiwan,&nbsp;officially known&nbsp;as the Republic of China,&nbsp;is&nbsp;holding its presidential and parliamentary elections today.&nbsp;The election features three main parties - the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the Kuomintang (KMT), and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP). In other news, the&nbsp;United States carried out fresh strikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, on Friday (Jan 12), said the US Central Command (CENTCOM). This comes&nbsp;after President Joe Biden said that American forces would carry out new strikes if the Iran-backed group keeps attacking ships in the Red Sea.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-elections-2024-polling-begins-will-democratic-progressive-party-continue-to-hold-sway-679482">Taiwan elections 2024 LIVE: Polling begins, will the ruling Democratic Progressive Party continue to hold sway?<br />
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<p>Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China which is holding its presidential and parliamentary elections today. The election features three main parties - the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the Kuomintang (KMT), and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP).</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-new-strike-in-yemen-after-biden-vows-to-protect-shipping-in-red-sea-679489">US carries out new strikes in Yemen after Biden vows to protect shipping in Red Sea<br />
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<p>The United States carried out fresh strikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, on Friday (Jan 12), said the US Central Command (CENTCOM) after President Joe Biden promised that&nbsp;&nbsp;American forces would carry out new strikes if the Iran-backed group keeps attacking ships in the Red Sea.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-blinken-discusses-human-rights-with-chinese-official-urges-beijing-to-maintain-cross-strait-stability-679518">US' Blinken discusses human rights with Chinese official, urges Beijing to maintain cross-strait stability<br />
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<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken raised concerns over China's human rights issues and urged "maintaining peace and stability" in the Taiwan Strait, during a meeting with senior Chinese official Liu Jianchao in Washington, said the State Department.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nicaragua-flight-gujarat-police-book-14-agents-7-face-charges-of-trafficking-and-destroying-evidence-679497">Nicaragua flight: Gujarat police book 14 agents, 7 face charges of trafficking and destroying evidence<br />
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<p>In the case of a Nicaragua-bound donkey flight that was grounded in France over suspicions of human trafficking, Gujarat police booked at least 14 travel agents of whom seven&nbsp;are facing charges of human trafficking, destruction of evidence, and conspiracy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India: New Delhi witnessing surge in influenza cases compounded by H1N1</strong></p>

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Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China, is holding its presidential and parliamentary elections today. The election features three main parties - the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the Kuomintang (KMT), and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP).

Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China, is holding its presidential and parliamentary elections today. The election features three main parties - the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the Kuomintang (KMT), and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP). In other news, the United States carried out fresh strikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, on Friday (Jan 12), said the US Central Command (CENTCOM). This comes after President Joe Biden said that American forces would carry out new strikes if the Iran-backed group keeps attacking ships in the Red Sea. Click on the headlines to read more: Taiwan elections 2024 LIVE: Polling begins, will the ruling Democratic Progressive Party continue to hold sway? Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China which is holding its presidential and parliamentary elections today. The election features three main parties - the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the Kuomintang (KMT), and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP). US carries out new strikes in Yemen after Biden vows to protect shipping in Red Sea The United States carried out fresh strikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, on Friday (Jan 12), said the US Central Command (CENTCOM) after President Joe Biden promised that American forces would carry out new strikes if the Iran-backed group keeps attacking ships in the Red Sea. US' Blinken discusses human rights with Chinese official, urges Beijing to maintain cross-strait stability US Secretary of State Antony Blinken raised concerns over China's human rights issues and urged "maintaining peace and stability" in the Taiwan Strait, during a meeting with senior Chinese official Liu Jianchao in Washington, said the State Department. Nicaragua flight: Gujarat police book 14 agents, 7 face charges of trafficking and destroying evidence In the case of a Nicaragua-bound donkey flight that was grounded in France over suspicions of human trafficking, Gujarat police booked at least 14 travel agents of whom seven are facing charges of human trafficking, destruction of evidence, and conspiracy. WATCH | India: New Delhi witnessing surge in influenza cases compounded by H1N1

Morning news brief: Polling underway in Taiwan's key election, US carries out new strikes in Yemen, and more

"Parasite" director Boon Joon-ho and other veteran members of South Korea's entertainment industry urged authorities to thoroughly investigate the case of actor Lee Sun-Kyun.

South Korea: Death of ‘Parasite’ Actor Lee Sun-Kyun's sparks protests

Portraying Hou Yu-ih as Taiwan’s next leader has been an uphill battle for the Beijing-friendly KMT party. Will explains- Whether Hou Yu-Ih will be able to bring KMT back to power or not.

WION's Power Explainer: Will Hou Yu-ih bring KMT back to power?

Taiwan Elections 2024: All eyes on high-stakes election

Fears of a regional war linger, with more countries now being involved in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. US has carried out additional strikes on Houthi-linked targets in Yemen. Earlier on Friday, US and British forces targeted nearly 30 sites with more than 150 munitions in Yemen in their first round of strikes. Watch to know more!

US-UK Airstrikes on Yemen: Will retaliate if Houthis continue outrageous behavior, says Biden

<p>In the wake of the formidable New Year's Day earthquake, Japan's Noto Peninsula reportedly underwent a dramatic metamorphosis, which is vividly depicted in newly released satellite imagery. The&nbsp;images have captured some profound alterations to the Japanese coastline that now stands extended by up to 820 feet.</p>

<h2><strong>Striking images</strong></h2>

<p>Satellite snapshots, juxtaposing the landscape pre and post-quake, unveil the remarkable uplift effect that stretched the coastline by an impressive 820 feet (250 meters)—a span exceeding the length of two American football fields.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shared on X (previously Twitter) by Nahel Belgherze, images show sections of the Noto Peninsula where the seafloor emerged above the waterline.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiZj4iIsNiDAxV_s1YBHSlHBSIQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-japan-earthquake-reaches-126-as-harsh-weather-conditions-hamper-rescue-efforts-677209" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-japan-earthquake-reaches-126-as-harsh-weather-conditions-hamper-rescue-efforts-677209&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZj4iIsNiDAxV_s1YBHSlHBSIQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Death toll in Japan earthquake reaches 126 as harsh weather conditions hamper rescue efforts</a></strong></p>

<p>Posting a GIF of the images, Belgherze wrote: "The earthquake that struck Japan’s Noto peninsula on Monday was so strong that the coastline has moved up to 250 meters offshore due to significant land uplift."</p>

<p>Watch it here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The earthquake that struck Japan’s Noto peninsula on Monday was so strong that the coastline has moved up to 250 meters offshore due to significant land uplift. <a href="https://t.co/XpxBMLRTUU">pic.twitter.com/XpxBMLRTUU</a></p>
— Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) <a href="https://twitter.com/WxNB_/status/1742967417616138539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The earthquake struck Japan on January 1 at around 2:10 am EST (0710 GMT), registering a magnitude of 7.6. It triggered evacuations along the impacted coastal zones that witnessed a substantial uplift.</p>

<h2><strong>Scientists confirm uplift</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers from the Earthquake Research Institute at the University of Tokyo, conducting field investigations, reported findings of coseismic coastal uplift along the northwest coast of the Noto Peninsula. Notably, evidence was detected at ten locations, spanning from Kaiso to Akasaki sites.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Japan earthquake: One week later, quake-hit residents of a Japanese village live in limbo</strong></p>

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<p>"During a field investigation along the northwest coast of the Noto Peninsula, we found evidence at 10 locations, from Kaiso to Akasaki sites, of coseismic coastal uplift related to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake (M7.6)," said the researchers in a statement.</p>

<p>"The pattern of estimated coseismic coastal uplift appears to be decreasing southward from Kaiso to Akasaki," they added, as quoted by space.com.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiZj4iIsNiDAxV_s1YBHSlHBSIQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-death-toll-rises-to-161-more-than-100-missing-days-after-76-magnitude-earthquake-677676" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-death-toll-rises-to-161-more-than-100-missing-days-after-76-magnitude-earthquake-677676&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZj4iIsNiDAxV_s1YBHSlHBSIQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Japan earthquake: Death toll rises to 161, number of missing crosses 320</a></strong></p>

<p>The repercussions extended to Akasaki port, where nearly 14-foot-high (4.2 meters) tsunami&nbsp;wreaked havoc, as indicated by water stains on building walls spotted during the university's field investigations.</p>

<p>Adding another layer to the comprehensive documentation of this geological event, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Advanced Land Observing Satellite-2 (ALOS-2) offered a bird's-eye view of the coastal transformation.</p>

<p>By comparing coastline images from June 2023 to January 2, the satellite revealed significant seaward shifts in various areas, encompassing the Nafune port, Wajima city, and Minazuki bay, as outlined by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the wake of the formidable New Year's Day earthquake, Japan's Noto Peninsula reportedly underwent a dramatic metamorphosis, which is vividly depicted in newly released satellite imagery.

In the wake of the formidable New Year's Day earthquake, Japan's Noto Peninsula reportedly underwent a dramatic metamorphosis, which is vividly depicted in newly released satellite imagery. The images have captured some profound alterations to the Japanese coastline that now stands extended by up to 820 feet. Striking images Satellite snapshots, juxtaposing the landscape pre and post-quake, unveil the remarkable uplift effect that stretched the coastline by an impressive 820 feet (250 meters)—a span exceeding the length of two American football fields. Shared on X (previously Twitter) by Nahel Belgherze, images show sections of the Noto Peninsula where the seafloor emerged above the waterline. Also read | Death toll in Japan earthquake reaches 126 as harsh weather conditions hamper rescue efforts Posting a GIF of the images, Belgherze wrote: "The earthquake that struck Japan’s Noto peninsula on Monday was so strong that the coastline has moved up to 250 meters offshore due to significant land uplift." Watch it here: The earthquake that struck Japan’s Noto peninsula on Monday was so strong that the coastline has moved up to 250 meters offshore due to significant land uplift. pic.twitter.com/XpxBMLRTUU — Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) January 4, 2024 × The earthquake struck Japan on January 1 at around 2:10 am EST (0710 GMT), registering a magnitude of 7.6. It triggered evacuations along the impacted coastal zones that witnessed a substantial uplift. Scientists confirm uplift Researchers from the Earthquake Research Institute at the University of Tokyo, conducting field investigations, reported findings of coseismic coastal uplift along the northwest coast of the Noto Peninsula. Notably, evidence was detected at ten locations, spanning from Kaiso to Akasaki sites. Watch | Japan earthquake: One week later, quake-hit residents of a Japanese village live in limbo × "During a field investigation along the northwest coast of the Noto Peninsula, we found evidence at 10 locations, from Kaiso to Akasaki sites, of coseismic coastal uplift related to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake (M7.6)," said the researchers in a statement. "The pattern of estimated coseismic coastal uplift appears to be decreasing southward from Kaiso to Akasaki," they added, as quoted by space.com. Also read | Japan earthquake: Death toll rises to 161, number of missing crosses 320 The repercussions extended to Akasaki port, where nearly 14-foot-high (4.2 meters) tsunami wreaked havoc, as indicated by water stains on building walls spotted during the university's field investigations. Adding another layer to the comprehensive documentation of this geological event, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Advanced Land Observing Satellite-2 (ALOS-2) offered a bird's-eye view of the coastal transformation. By comparing coastline images from June 2023 to January 2, the satellite revealed significant seaward shifts in various areas, encompassing the Nafune port, Wajima city, and Minazuki bay, as outlined by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan. (With inputs from agencies)

New Year's Day quake stretched a Japanese peninsula coastline by over 800 feet

<p>As the hostage situation in the Israel-Hamas war remains unpredictable, a new agreement between Israel and Qatar has been signed.&nbsp;Both the countries have inked an agreement allowing medications to be delivered to the hostages held captive by the Hamas militant group.&nbsp;As per a statement by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Friday (Jan 12), under the pact, the medicines will be delivered in the next few days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as casualties in the Gaza war&nbsp;continue&nbsp;to surge without respite to the humanitarian crisis gripping the besieged region which has been stuck in the crossfire for months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum, a group that represents the hostages and kibbutz community in Israel, said, "After 98 days in Hamas tunnels, all hostages face immediate mortal danger and need life-saving medicines."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-blinken-discusses-human-rights-with-chinese-official-urges-beijing-to-maintain-cross-strait-stability-679518">US' Blinken discusses human rights with Chinese official, urges Beijing to maintain cross-strait stability</a></p>

<p>"In addition to medicines, the hostages require also extensive medical treatment," it added. In the wake of the October 7 assault by Hamas, a total of 240 people were held captive. As per a report, over 130 continue to remain under captivity of the Palestinian Islamist group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The forum also demanded visual proof once the medications successfully get to the hostages, still awaiting their return to their respective countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-new-strike-in-yemen-after-biden-vows-to-respond-to-houthis-outrageous-behaviour-679489">US carries out new strikes in Yemen after Biden vows to protect shipping in Red Sea</a></p>

<p>The deal is crucial as the hostages, most of them elderly and with chronic illnesses, are in dire need of medications.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the November truce between Israel and Hamas, the chances are appearing bleak for another one. Israel vows to eliminate Hamas and continues to strike Gaza to take out top Hamas leaders. The deal also comes amid the escalating conflict in the Red Sea region by Iran-backed Houthi militia.&nbsp;</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/yemens-houthis-fired-anti-ship-missile-after-attack-in-yemen-us-679533">Yemen's Houthis fired anti-ship missile after attack in Yemen: US</a></strong></p>

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<p>The families of hostages earlier petitioned the International Committee of the Red Cross to visit the hostages in a bid to check on their condition. However Red Cross quoting Hamas said that the access has been denied.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
</section>

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As the hostage situation in the Israel-Hamas war remains unpredictable, a new agreement between Israel and Qatar has been signed. Both the countries have inked an agreement allowing medications to be delivered to the hostages held captive by the Hamas militant group.

As the hostage situation in the Israel-Hamas war remains unpredictable, a new agreement between Israel and Qatar has been signed. Both the countries have inked an agreement allowing medications to be delivered to the hostages held captive by the Hamas militant group. As per a statement by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Friday (Jan 12), under the pact, the medicines will be delivered in the next few days. This comes as casualties in the Gaza war continue to surge without respite to the humanitarian crisis gripping the besieged region which has been stuck in the crossfire for months. Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum, a group that represents the hostages and kibbutz community in Israel, said, "After 98 days in Hamas tunnels, all hostages face immediate mortal danger and need life-saving medicines." Also Read | US' Blinken discusses human rights with Chinese official, urges Beijing to maintain cross-strait stability "In addition to medicines, the hostages require also extensive medical treatment," it added. In the wake of the October 7 assault by Hamas, a total of 240 people were held captive. As per a report, over 130 continue to remain under captivity of the Palestinian Islamist group. The forum also demanded visual proof once the medications successfully get to the hostages, still awaiting their return to their respective countries. Also Read | US carries out new strikes in Yemen after Biden vows to protect shipping in Red Sea The deal is crucial as the hostages, most of them elderly and with chronic illnesses, are in dire need of medications. After the November truce between Israel and Hamas, the chances are appearing bleak for another one. Israel vows to eliminate Hamas and continues to strike Gaza to take out top Hamas leaders. The deal also comes amid the escalating conflict in the Red Sea region by Iran-backed Houthi militia. Watch | Yemen's Houthis fired anti-ship missile after attack in Yemen: US × The families of hostages earlier petitioned the International Committee of the Red Cross to visit the hostages in a bid to check on their condition. However Red Cross quoting Hamas said that the access has been denied. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel, Qatar ink pact to allow medicine delivery to Hamas-held hostages

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