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The wave of violence currently sweeping through Ecuador, attributed to the activities of powerful gangs, has thrown the country into a state of fear. This unprecedented surge in violence is tied to several incidents, including prison riots, kidnappings of police officers, and a brazen storming of a TV station. In an attempt to regain control and restore peace, the Ecuadorian President, Daniel Noboa, has ordered the military to confront these powerful criminal organizations, now branded as "terrorist" groups.

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<p>United States President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden abruptly walked out of his contempt hearing at Capitol Hill on Wednesday (Jan 10), as soon as Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene stood up to question him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At a US House of Representatives hearing, the Republican lawmakers were pushing for a vote to hold Hunter in contempt of Congress for not testifying in their impeachment inquiry targeting his father.&nbsp;</p>

<p>House Republicans have alleged that Joe Biden and his family improperly profited from policy actions in which Biden participated when he was vice president in&nbsp;2009-2017.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hunter left as soon as it was MTG’s turn to speak, took all the cameras with him, and made a statement to the press in the hallway. I know she was HEATED 💀 <a href="https://t.co/HpfwT62jau">pic.twitter.com/HpfwT62jau</a></p>
— chris evans (@notcapnamerica) <a href="https://twitter.com/notcapnamerica/status/1745143405921935693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The&nbsp;House Oversight and Judiciary Committees advanced resolutions recommending that Hunter&nbsp;be held in criminal contempt of Congress, sending the matter to full House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Hunter entered the hearing without speaking to the media, and sat quietly in the gallery with his lawyer, causing pandemonium, with members of the House Oversight Committee arguing with each other and scolding him for the surprise. He left before the vote on the resolution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As Hunter was exiting, a man yelled out&nbsp;“What kind of crack do you normally smoke, Mr&nbsp;Biden?”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden made an unexpected appearance at a US House committee hearing called by Republican lawmakers pushing for a vote to hold him in contempt of Congress <a href="https://t.co/EYJPYQFPrI">https://t.co/EYJPYQFPrI</a> <a href="https://t.co/PnfHEEat8s">pic.twitter.com/PnfHEEat8s</a></p>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1745230288379163031?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"We plan to question Hunter Biden about this record of evidence during our deposition, but he blatantly defied two lawful subpoenas," Committee chairperson James Comer said.</p>

<p>"Hunter Biden's willful refusal to comply with the committee subpoenas is a criminal act. It constitutes contempt of Congress and warrants referral to the appropriate United States Attorney's Office for prosecution, as prescribed by the law. We will not provide Hunter Biden with special treatment because of his last name."</p>

<h2><strong>'You're the epitome of white privilege'</strong></h2>

<p>US Representative Nancy Mace (a Republican) slammed Hunter's surprise appearance at the hearing by saying that he was the "epitome of white privilege."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You are the epitome of white privilege -- coming into the Oversight Committee, spitting in our face, ignoring a congressional subpoena to be deposed. What are you afraid of? You have no balls to come up here!" Mace added.</p>

<p>Representative Jared Moskowitz (also a Republican) said,&nbsp;"The witness accepted the chairman's invitation. It just so happens the witness is here. If the committee wants to hear from the witness and the chairman gave the witness that option, then the only folks that are afraid to hear from the witness with the American people watching, are my friends on the other side of the aisle.</p>

<p>"I don't know if there's a proper motion, Mr. Chairman, but I'll make a motion. Let's vote. Let's take a vote. Who wants to hear from Hunter right now, today?"</p>

<p>Hunter's lawyer Abbe Lowell slammed Republican chairs for commandeering an unprecedented resolution to hold someone in contempt who has offered to publicly answer all their proper questions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Last year Chairman Comer made an explicit offer that people like Hunter and others like him have the option to attend the deposition or a public hearing - whichever they chose," Lowell said.</p>

<p>"Hunter chose a hearing where Republicans could not distort, manipulate, or misuse that testimony honour and then ignoring that invitation and proving once again that they cared little about the truth and wanted only to, quote, 'move the needle of political support', which was a quote Chairman Comer confessed was his true purpose," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden abruptly walked out of his contempt hearing at Capitol Hill on Wednesday (Jan 10), as soon as Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene stood up to question him.

United States President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden abruptly walked out of his contempt hearing at Capitol Hill on Wednesday (Jan 10), as soon as Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene stood up to question him. At a US House of Representatives hearing, the Republican lawmakers were pushing for a vote to hold Hunter in contempt of Congress for not testifying in their impeachment inquiry targeting his father. House Republicans have alleged that Joe Biden and his family improperly profited from policy actions in which Biden participated when he was vice president in 2009-2017. Hunter left as soon as it was MTG’s turn to speak, took all the cameras with him, and made a statement to the press in the hallway. I know she was HEATED 💀 pic.twitter.com/HpfwT62jau — chris evans (@notcapnamerica) January 10, 2024 × The House Oversight and Judiciary Committees advanced resolutions recommending that Hunter be held in criminal contempt of Congress, sending the matter to full House. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Hunter entered the hearing without speaking to the media, and sat quietly in the gallery with his lawyer, causing pandemonium, with members of the House Oversight Committee arguing with each other and scolding him for the surprise. He left before the vote on the resolution. As Hunter was exiting, a man yelled out “What kind of crack do you normally smoke, Mr Biden?” President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden made an unexpected appearance at a US House committee hearing called by Republican lawmakers pushing for a vote to hold him in contempt of Congress https://t.co/EYJPYQFPrI pic.twitter.com/PnfHEEat8s — Reuters (@Reuters) January 10, 2024 × "We plan to question Hunter Biden about this record of evidence during our deposition, but he blatantly defied two lawful subpoenas," Committee chairperson James Comer said. "Hunter Biden's willful refusal to comply with the committee subpoenas is a criminal act. It constitutes contempt of Congress and warrants referral to the appropriate United States Attorney's Office for prosecution, as prescribed by the law. We will not provide Hunter Biden with special treatment because of his last name." 'You're the epitome of white privilege' US Representative Nancy Mace (a Republican) slammed Hunter's surprise appearance at the hearing by saying that he was the "epitome of white privilege." "You are the epitome of white privilege -- coming into the Oversight Committee, spitting in our face, ignoring a congressional subpoena to be deposed. What are you afraid of? You have no balls to come up here!" Mace added. Representative Jared Moskowitz (also a Republican) said, "The witness accepted the chairman's invitation. It just so happens the witness is here. If the committee wants to hear from the witness and the chairman gave the witness that option, then the only folks that are afraid to hear from the witness with the American people watching, are my friends on the other side of the aisle. "I don't know if there's a proper motion, Mr. Chairman, but I'll make a motion. Let's vote. Let's take a vote. Who wants to hear from Hunter right now, today?" Hunter's lawyer Abbe Lowell slammed Republican chairs for commandeering an unprecedented resolution to hold someone in contempt who has offered to publicly answer all their proper questions. "Last year Chairman Comer made an explicit offer that people like Hunter and others like him have the option to attend the deposition or a public hearing - whichever they chose," Lowell said. "Hunter chose a hearing where Republicans could not distort, manipulate, or misuse that testimony honour and then ignoring that invitation and proving once again that they cared little about the truth and wanted only to, quote, 'move the needle of political support', which was a quote Chairman Comer confessed was his true purpose," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Video | Hunter Biden abruptly walks out of contempt hearing as Marjorie Taylor Greene starts speaking

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<p>Ecuador has declared <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-declares-state-of-emergency-after-its-most-wanted-criminal-disappears-from-jail-678015">a state of emergency for 60 days </a></strong>after one of the country's most notorious narco bosses escaped from prison. On Wednesday (Jan 10), President Daniel Noboa said that his country was at war with drug gangs. Noboa, who came to power in January, named 22 gangs as terrorist organisations which made them official military targets. Following the government announcements, gangs started hitting back with a fresh wave of violence across the country.</p>

<p>The crisis presents a fresh challenge for Noboa, who pledged during last year's election campaign that he would curb violence in the Central American country.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A fresh wave of violence</strong></h2>

<p>Violence is not new in Ecuador. Since the Covid pandemic in 2020, the security situation in the country worsened which also battered the economy. Citing&nbsp;government data, a report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that the number of violent deaths rose to 8,008 in 2023, nearly doubling the figure reported in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government has blamed the situation on the growing reach of cocaine-trafficking gangs, who have destabilised swathes of South America. Ecuador's prison system is also a major contributor to the de-stability.</p>

<p>Inside jails, gangs have taken advantage of the state's weak control to expand their power. In recent times, prison violence has become increasingly common, resulting in numerous deaths.</p>

<h2><strong>Govt's crackdown and chaos that unfolded</strong></h2>

<p>Last Sunday, the police said that Adolfo Macias, a notorious narco boss and leader of the Los Choneros, disappeared from the prison where he was serving a 34-year sentence. This caused President Noboa to declare a state of emergency in Ecuador for sixty days, which included a nationwide curfew from 11 pm to 5 am. Exceptions were given to workers and individuals travelling to and from airports with a scheduled flight during curfew hours.</p>

<p>As the week began on Monday, there were incidents of violence in at least six prisons. Reuters reported that as of Wednesday, more than 100 guards and other staff were still being held hostage by prisoners.</p>

<p>In central Ecuador's Riobamba, around 39 inmates escaped from a prison but some of them were re-captured. The report said that seven police officers had also been kidnapped of which three were freed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-was-surreal-ecuadorean-journalist-held-hostage-recounts-armed-takeover-678819">'It was surreal': Ecuadorean journalist held hostage recounts armed takeover</a></strong></p>

<p>Unrest has spread in the streets. On Tuesday, videos circulated on social media showing armed men setting vehicles on fire in a street in Esmeraldas. On the same day, two police officers were killed in Guayas province where Guayaquil is located.</p>

<p>The most dramatic display of violence came when armed men wearing balaclavas stormed a studio of public broadcaster TC carrying weapons and grenades on Tuesday. The gunmen held journalists hostage. Over a dozen people in the group were arrested.</p>

<p>Explosions were also reported in several cities on Tuesday, but there were no reports of injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police said on Wednesday that 70 people had been arrested since Monday in response to incidents like the TV station take-over. Schools were shut across the country (on Wednesday), with students tending to online classes and many businesses choosing to close for the day.</p>

<p>Since the state of emergency began, 329 people, mostly members of gangs like Los Choneros, Los Lobos and Los Tiguerones, were arrested, armed forces commander Jaime Vela told reporters on Wednesday evening. "There is no hostage who has been murdered," Vela said in response to videos shared on social media which showed prison staff being subjected to extreme violence, including being shot and hanged.</p>

<h2><strong>'An armed conflict'</strong></h2>

<p>A day after declaring a state of emergency, President Noboa said in an updated decree on Tuesday that he recognised an "internal armed conflict" in Ecuador and identified several criminal gangs as terrorist groups, including Los Choneros. The decree ordered the armed forces to neutralise the groups.</p>

<p>"It is a non-international armed conflict. We are fighting for national peace. We are also fighting against terrorist groups, which today number more than 20,000 people," Noboa told a local radio station on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ecuador: Violent chaos unfolds as soldiers patrol streets, nationwide curfew imposed</strong></p>

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<p>"We will not give in to the stupid things they are used to doing. They, I mean the terrorists who are in these prisons. It is difficult, it is hard and I also sympathise with the families of the kidnapped officials. We are in a state of war, we are in a state of war, and we cannot give in to these terrorist groups," he added.</p>

<p>After coming to power, the president has been touting his "Phoenix Plan" for security. This plan includes a new intelligence unit, tactical weapons for security forces, new high-security prisons, and reinforced security at ports and airports - key points for drug shipments - which would cost some $800 million.</p>

<p>In December last year, Noboa said that the US would provide new weapons worth $200 million for the army, and the rest of the funds would come from the national budget.</p>

<p>Later this year, he plans to hold a security-focused plebiscite. This would include asking citizens if the government should undo a ban on the extradition of Ecuadoreans wanted abroad and if the seizure of assets from suspected criminals should be allowed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ecuador has declared a state of emergency for 60 days after one of the country's most notorious narco bosses escaped from prison. On Wednesday (Jan 10), President Daniel Noboa said that his country was at war with drug gangs.

Ecuador has declared a state of emergency for 60 days after one of the country's most notorious narco bosses escaped from prison. On Wednesday (Jan 10), President Daniel Noboa said that his country was at war with drug gangs. Noboa, who came to power in January, named 22 gangs as terrorist organisations which made them official military targets. Following the government announcements, gangs started hitting back with a fresh wave of violence across the country. The crisis presents a fresh challenge for Noboa, who pledged during last year's election campaign that he would curb violence in the Central American country. A fresh wave of violence Violence is not new in Ecuador. Since the Covid pandemic in 2020, the security situation in the country worsened which also battered the economy. Citing government data, a report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that the number of violent deaths rose to 8,008 in 2023, nearly doubling the figure reported in 2022. The government has blamed the situation on the growing reach of cocaine-trafficking gangs, who have destabilised swathes of South America. Ecuador's prison system is also a major contributor to the de-stability. Inside jails, gangs have taken advantage of the state's weak control to expand their power. In recent times, prison violence has become increasingly common, resulting in numerous deaths. Govt's crackdown and chaos that unfolded Last Sunday, the police said that Adolfo Macias, a notorious narco boss and leader of the Los Choneros, disappeared from the prison where he was serving a 34-year sentence. This caused President Noboa to declare a state of emergency in Ecuador for sixty days, which included a nationwide curfew from 11 pm to 5 am. Exceptions were given to workers and individuals travelling to and from airports with a scheduled flight during curfew hours. As the week began on Monday, there were incidents of violence in at least six prisons. Reuters reported that as of Wednesday, more than 100 guards and other staff were still being held hostage by prisoners. In central Ecuador's Riobamba, around 39 inmates escaped from a prison but some of them were re-captured. The report said that seven police officers had also been kidnapped of which three were freed. Also read: 'It was surreal': Ecuadorean journalist held hostage recounts armed takeover Unrest has spread in the streets. On Tuesday, videos circulated on social media showing armed men setting vehicles on fire in a street in Esmeraldas. On the same day, two police officers were killed in Guayas province where Guayaquil is located. The most dramatic display of violence came when armed men wearing balaclavas stormed a studio of public broadcaster TC carrying weapons and grenades on Tuesday. The gunmen held journalists hostage. Over a dozen people in the group were arrested. Explosions were also reported in several cities on Tuesday, but there were no reports of injuries. The police said on Wednesday that 70 people had been arrested since Monday in response to incidents like the TV station take-over. Schools were shut across the country (on Wednesday), with students tending to online classes and many businesses choosing to close for the day. Since the state of emergency began, 329 people, mostly members of gangs like Los Choneros, Los Lobos and Los Tiguerones, were arrested, armed forces commander Jaime Vela told reporters on Wednesday evening. "There is no hostage who has been murdered," Vela said in response to videos shared on social media which showed prison staff being subjected to extreme violence, including being shot and hanged. 'An armed conflict' A day after declaring a state of emergency, President Noboa said in an updated decree on Tuesday that he recognised an "internal armed conflict" in Ecuador and identified several criminal gangs as terrorist groups, including Los Choneros. The decree ordered the armed forces to neutralise the groups. "It is a non-international armed conflict. We are fighting for national peace. We are also fighting against terrorist groups, which today number more than 20,000 people," Noboa told a local radio station on Wednesday. Also watch | Ecuador: Violent chaos unfolds as soldiers patrol streets, nationwide curfew imposed × "We will not give in to the stupid things they are used to doing. They, I mean the terrorists who are in these prisons. It is difficult, it is hard and I also sympathise with the families of the kidnapped officials. We are in a state of war, we are in a state of war, and we cannot give in to these terrorist groups," he added. After coming to power, the president has been touting his "Phoenix Plan" for security. This plan includes a new intelligence unit, tactical weapons for security forces, new high-security prisons, and reinforced security at ports and airports - key points for drug shipments - which would cost some $800 million. In December last year, Noboa said that the US would provide new weapons worth $200 million for the army, and the rest of the funds would come from the national budget. Later this year, he plans to hold a security-focused plebiscite. This would include asking citizens if the government should undo a ban on the extradition of Ecuadoreans wanted abroad and if the seizure of assets from suspected criminals should be allowed. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | How Ecuador became a nation held hostage by its own criminal gangs

<p>In a disturbing case, a high school teacher in United States' Missouri allegedly had sex with one of her students on school premises while asking other students to act as “lookouts”, as per an Independent report.</p>

<p>The incident reportedly took place on January 5 at Laquey High School in Pulaski County. The mathematics teacher Hailey Clifton-Carmack, 26, was arrested by the police this week in Texas on charges of endangering the welfare of a child, statutory rape, sexual contact with a student and child molestation, the outlet said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zuckerbergs-venture-of-raising-world-class-beef-cattle-by-feeding-nuts-beer-receives-flak-from-netizens-678932">Zuckerberg's venture of raising 'world-class' beef cattle by feeding nuts, beer receives flak from netizens</a></p>

<h2><strong>Mathematics teacher ‘had sex’ with 16-year-old in school</strong></h2>

<p>The incident first came to light when a student alerted about the relationship to&nbsp;the police. The student claimed that the 16-year-old used to show pictures of scratches on his back to other students, which he said came from physical involvement with Clifton-Carmack.</p>

<p>The student described the teacher as being “too close with students”. Even the high school’s principal and the Superintendent of Lacquey School were aware of the teacher’s unusual behaviour with students, as per the court documents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-send-warships-aircraft-carrier-to-indian-ocean-for-joint-training-with-indian-forces-678963">UK to send warships, aircraft carrier to Indian Ocean for joint training with Indian forces</a></p>

<p>In December, officials went through the teacher’s phone after obtaining a search warrant. At that time, she handed over her phone with no issues, as per the police officer who served the warrant. At the time, the woman denied engaging in inappropriate relationships with students.</p>

<p>But afterwards, she refused to give them her password at the advice of her attorney. When police officials broke through the phone with an electronic security system, they found a conversation between Clifton-Carmack and the student in question discussing their relationship.</p>

<p>In a statement to the outlet, the school district said, “The employee has not been in the district since 8 December 2023 and we do not anticipate her return.”</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-based-shiva-temple-vandalised-by-man-allegedly-reciting-quran-verses-678953">England based Shiva temple vandalised by man allegedly reciting Quran verses</a></p>

<p>The student's father stated that she had visited his family's home shortly before the woman travelled to Texas to meet her family. According to court documents, he confirmed the sexual relationship to a witness and claimed the teacher utilised other kids as "lookouts" while they had sex at school.</p>

<p>He told the witness, “They are going to do it behind my back so I may as well let it happen.”</p>

<p>The father allegedly stated that he was willing to lie for his son if necessary. The father was detained on January 3 and on January 8; he was arraigned and pled not guilty to a charge of first-degree child endangerment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a disturbing case, a high school teacher in United States' Missouri allegedly had sex with one of her students on school premises while asking other students to act as “lookouts”, as per an Independent report.

In a disturbing case, a high school teacher in United States' Missouri allegedly had sex with one of her students on school premises while asking other students to act as “lookouts”, as per an Independent report. The incident reportedly took place on January 5 at Laquey High School in Pulaski County. The mathematics teacher Hailey Clifton-Carmack, 26, was arrested by the police this week in Texas on charges of endangering the welfare of a child, statutory rape, sexual contact with a student and child molestation, the outlet said. Also Read | Zuckerberg's venture of raising 'world-class' beef cattle by feeding nuts, beer receives flak from netizens Mathematics teacher ‘had sex’ with 16-year-old in school The incident first came to light when a student alerted about the relationship to the police. The student claimed that the 16-year-old used to show pictures of scratches on his back to other students, which he said came from physical involvement with Clifton-Carmack. The student described the teacher as being “too close with students”. Even the high school’s principal and the Superintendent of Lacquey School were aware of the teacher’s unusual behaviour with students, as per the court documents. Also Read | UK to send warships, aircraft carrier to Indian Ocean for joint training with Indian forces In December, officials went through the teacher’s phone after obtaining a search warrant. At that time, she handed over her phone with no issues, as per the police officer who served the warrant. At the time, the woman denied engaging in inappropriate relationships with students. But afterwards, she refused to give them her password at the advice of her attorney. When police officials broke through the phone with an electronic security system, they found a conversation between Clifton-Carmack and the student in question discussing their relationship. In a statement to the outlet, the school district said, “The employee has not been in the district since 8 December 2023 and we do not anticipate her return.” Also Read | England based Shiva temple vandalised by man allegedly reciting Quran verses The student's father stated that she had visited his family's home shortly before the woman travelled to Texas to meet her family. According to court documents, he confirmed the sexual relationship to a witness and claimed the teacher utilised other kids as "lookouts" while they had sex at school. He told the witness, “They are going to do it behind my back so I may as well let it happen.” The father allegedly stated that he was willing to lie for his son if necessary. The father was detained on January 3 and on January 8; he was arraigned and pled not guilty to a charge of first-degree child endangerment. (With inputs from agencies)

US maths teacher arrested for 'having sex' with 16-year-old while asking other students to act as lookouts

Hunter Biden made a surprise visit to a Capitol Hill hearing Wednesday, stirring a political frenzy as Republicans were taking the first step toward holding President Joe Biden's son in contempt of Congress for defying a congressional subpoena.

Hunter Biden's surprise visit to Capitol Hill causes frenzy in US Congress

<p>Among the top 5 Hollywood news today, 'The Batman', Katy Perry and PornHub hogged the maximum limelight,</p>

<p>Read our top 5 picks of the day:</p>

<p><strong>Seen her music video yet? This is why everyone thinks Katy Perry is pregnant!</strong></p>

<p>In a teaser for the new song that made way to her Instagram page, Katy Perry can be seen wearing neck plunging gown in which she can be seen cradling her baby bump, triggering rumours that the pop star is expecting a child with her fiancee Orlando Bloom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In detail:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-seen-her-music-video-yet-this-is-why-everyone-thinks-katy-perry-is-pregnant-284456">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-seen-her-music-video-yet-this-is-why-everyone-thinks-katy-perry-is-pregnant-284456</a></p>

<p><strong>'The Batman': Check out the first look of Robert Pattinson as caped crusader with his Batmobile</strong></p>

<p>Director Matt Reeves gave Batman fans a huge surprise Wednesday as he revealed the first look of Robert Pattinson as the caped crusader alongside his Batmobile.</p>

<p>In detail:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-the-batman-check-out-the-first-look-of-robert-pattinson-as-caped-crusader-with-his-batmobile-284419">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-the-batman-check-out-the-first-look-of-robert-pattinson-as-caped-crusader-with-his-batmobile-284419</a></p>

<p><strong>BTS drops surprise music video for 'Map of the soul: 7' single ‘Black Swan’</strong></p>

<p>The K-pop superstars are once again back with another music video from their newly released album 'Map of the soul: 7'</p>

<p>In detail:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-drops-surprise-music-video-for-map-of-the-soul-7-single-black-swan-284402">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-drops-surprise-music-video-for-map-of-the-soul-7-single-black-swan-284402</a></p>

<p><strong>'Hocus Pocus' sequel to return as Disney+ film with director Adam Shankman</strong></p>

<p>Disney is moving fast with its content. They have now made rumours of Hocus Pocus returning, a reality.&nbsp;The witches will finally return to Salem as Disney has now hired director Adam Shankman to helm ‘Hocus Pocus 2’ as a Disney+ original film.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In detail:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hocus-pocus-sequel-to-return-as-disney-film-with-director-adam-shankman-284388">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hocus-pocus-sequel-to-return-as-disney-film-with-director-adam-shankman-284388</a></p>

<p><strong>PornHub to host first non-porn documentary about black lesbian strippers</strong></p>

<p>One of the biggest porn websites of the world, PornHub is in news but for something other than what they usually have to offer. The adult website will be hosting ‘Shakedown’, a non-porn documentary about black lesbian strippers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In detail:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pornhub-to-host-first-non-porn-documentary-about-black-lesbian-strippers-284406">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pornhub-to-host-first-non-porn-documentary-about-black-lesbian-strippers-284406</a></p>


Among the top 5 Hollywood news today, 'The Batman', Katy Perry and PornHub hogged the maximum limelight, Read our top 5 picks of the day: Seen her music video yet?

Among the top 5 Hollywood news today, 'The Batman', Katy Perry and PornHub hogged the maximum limelight, Read our top 5 picks of the day: Seen her music video yet? This is why everyone thinks Katy Perry is pregnant! In a teaser for the new song that made way to her Instagram page, Katy Perry can be seen wearing neck plunging gown in which she can be seen cradling her baby bump, triggering rumours that the pop star is expecting a child with her fiancee Orlando Bloom. In detail: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-seen-her-music-video-yet-this-is-why-everyone-thinks-katy-perry-is-pregnant-284456 'The Batman': Check out the first look of Robert Pattinson as caped crusader with his Batmobile Director Matt Reeves gave Batman fans a huge surprise Wednesday as he revealed the first look of Robert Pattinson as the caped crusader alongside his Batmobile. In detail: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-the-batman-check-out-the-first-look-of-robert-pattinson-as-caped-crusader-with-his-batmobile-284419 BTS drops surprise music video for 'Map of the soul: 7' single ‘Black Swan’ The K-pop superstars are once again back with another music video from their newly released album 'Map of the soul: 7' In detail: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-drops-surprise-music-video-for-map-of-the-soul-7-single-black-swan-284402 'Hocus Pocus' sequel to return as Disney+ film with director Adam Shankman Disney is moving fast with its content. They have now made rumours of Hocus Pocus returning, a reality. The witches will finally return to Salem as Disney has now hired director Adam Shankman to helm ‘Hocus Pocus 2’ as a Disney+ original film. In detail: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hocus-pocus-sequel-to-return-as-disney-film-with-director-adam-shankman-284388 PornHub to host first non-porn documentary about black lesbian strippers One of the biggest porn websites of the world, PornHub is in news but for something other than what they usually have to offer. The adult website will be hosting ‘Shakedown’, a non-porn documentary about black lesbian strippers. In detail: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pornhub-to-host-first-non-porn-documentary-about-black-lesbian-strippers-284406

UK to send warships, aircraft carrier to Indian Ocean for joint training with Indian forces

Ahead of India's Army day on January 15th the Indian chief of Army staff General Manoj Pande has called the security situation on the northern border stable but sensitive addressing an annual press conference. The Army Chief said in Jammu and Kashmir infiltration attempts continue but are being constantly thwarted.

Indian Army Chief Manoj Pande's annual press conference

<p>The United Nations will launch an information-gathering mission at the end of the month over accusations of sexual assault by Hamas during the October attack in Israel, a spokesman said Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During her trip to Israel and the West Bank, Pramila Patten, the UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict, will "gather information on sexual violence reportedly committed in the context of the attacks of October 7 and its aftermath," the UN secretary-general's spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"She is expected to meet with survivors, witnesses and others affected by sexual violence to identify avenues of support," Dujarric said, adding that Patten also plans to meet with "recently released hostages and detainees."</p>

<p>Patten will "be accompanied by experts in safe and ethical interviewing, forensic evidence, digital analysis and accountability," he said, with the trip part of "the exercise of her mandate in accordance with a standard UN methodology."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-its-troops-unintentionally-ran-over-a-palestinian-terrorists-body-using-jeep-678852"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Israel says troops 'unintentionally' ran over Palestinian's body using jeep after videos go viral</strong></a></p>

<p>The UN has faced criticism for not responding quickly enough to victims' accounts of rape and sexual assault allegedly committed during Hamas's incursion into Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack resulted in about 1,140 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-what-will-post-war-gaza-look-like-arab-neighbours-warn-israel-over-war-wion-678825"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: What will post-war Gaza look like? Arab neighbours warn Israel over war</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-7="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-what-will-post-war-gaza-look-like-arab-neighbours-warn-israel-over-war-wion-678825/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Militants also took around 250 hostages, of whom Israel says 132 remain in Gaza, including at least 25 believed to have been killed after about 100 were released in a prisoner swap in November.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has responded with a relentless military campaign that has killed at least 23,357 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry.</p>


The United Nations will launch an information-gathering mission at the end of the month over accusations of sexual assault by Hamas during the October attack in Israel, a spokesman said Wednesday.

The United Nations will launch an information-gathering mission at the end of the month over accusations of sexual assault by Hamas during the October attack in Israel, a spokesman said Wednesday. During her trip to Israel and the West Bank, Pramila Patten, the UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict, will "gather information on sexual violence reportedly committed in the context of the attacks of October 7 and its aftermath," the UN secretary-general's spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. "She is expected to meet with survivors, witnesses and others affected by sexual violence to identify avenues of support," Dujarric said, adding that Patten also plans to meet with "recently released hostages and detainees." Patten will "be accompanied by experts in safe and ethical interviewing, forensic evidence, digital analysis and accountability," he said, with the trip part of "the exercise of her mandate in accordance with a standard UN methodology." Also read | Israel says troops 'unintentionally' ran over Palestinian's body using jeep after videos go viral The UN has faced criticism for not responding quickly enough to victims' accounts of rape and sexual assault allegedly committed during Hamas's incursion into Israel. The attack resulted in about 1,140 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: What will post-war Gaza look like? Arab neighbours warn Israel over war Militants also took around 250 hostages, of whom Israel says 132 remain in Gaza, including at least 25 believed to have been killed after about 100 were released in a prisoner swap in November. Israel has responded with a relentless military campaign that has killed at least 23,357 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry.

UN launches info-gathering mission on Hamas' alleged sexual violence in Israel

Dozens of pro-Palestine and pro-Israeli demonstrators gathered outside the International Court of Justice in The Hague during the Israel’s genocide hearing. South Africa filed an application to the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide in its war on Gaza.

Israel Genocide Trial: Pro-Israel and pro-Palestine protests break outside ICJ building

<p>In the United Kingdom's Wembley, last week, a Hindu temple became the scene of a potential hate crime, as a man reportedly reciting Quran verses tried to throw a sacred idol and smashed a lamp (diya).</p>

<h2><strong>Latest incident</strong></h2>

<p>On Saturday (Jan 6th), a black man wearing a hoodie and a face mask entered the Eelapatheeswarar Alayam Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Wembley, England, with his shoes on, despite being stopped by the devotees and temple volunteers.</p>

<p>As per Rajasingham Jayadevan, the founder and general secretary of the temple,&nbsp;the man was initially stopped by&nbsp;volunteers and devotees who&nbsp;asked him to remove his boots and pull down the hoodie, but&nbsp;he refused to listen and left the temple premises.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-parliamentary-breach-accused-undergo-narco-test-in-gujarat-678884">Indian parliamentary breach accused undergo narco test in Gujarat</a></strong></p>

<p>However, he came back and went to the side of the temple where the deities were placed. There, he grabbed a Goddess Laxmi Deity with the intent to throw and smash it, Jayadevan further said.</p>

<p>The volunteers, however, managed to hold the idol and no damage was caused to it.</p>

<p>"One of the devotees and our volunteers managed to restrain him after he became extremely aggressive, and were successfully able to catch the murti (idol) which was thrown," he said, as per an X post by INSIGHT, a community of British Hindus and Indians.</p>

<p>"He then went to Navagraha (nine deities) stand and there were brass diyas (lamp) there. He smashed one of the Navagraha structures and tried to shake one of the Navgrahas," Jayadevan was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Times Of India.</p>

<p>"During this time, he was reciting Quranic verses," he further claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-defence-minister-meets-uk-pm-in-london-678934">Indian defence minister meets UK PM in London</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Man detained</strong></h2>

<p>The man was detained by volunteers and the&nbsp;Metropolitan Police were called. The man even tried to assault an officer.</p>

<p>In a statement, the police said "Shortly after 1.30 pm on January 6, police were called to a man who had entered a Hindu temple in Wembley. It was reported that the 22-year-old man was causing a significant disturbance inside the temple. Officers attended, and the man was detained. He was taken to hospital as a precaution due to his elevated heart rate and subsequently arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and taken into police custody."</p>

<p>However, the man was not booked for vandalism, as "no one present wished to substantiate any related criminal allegation."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the United Kingdom's Wembley, last week, a Hindu temple became the scene of a potential hate crime, as a man reportedly reciting Quran verses tried to throw a sacred idol and smashed a lamp (diya).

In the United Kingdom's Wembley, last week, a Hindu temple became the scene of a potential hate crime, as a man reportedly reciting Quran verses tried to throw a sacred idol and smashed a lamp (diya). Latest incident On Saturday (Jan 6th), a black man wearing a hoodie and a face mask entered the Eelapatheeswarar Alayam Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Wembley, England, with his shoes on, despite being stopped by the devotees and temple volunteers. As per Rajasingham Jayadevan, the founder and general secretary of the temple, the man was initially stopped by volunteers and devotees who asked him to remove his boots and pull down the hoodie, but he refused to listen and left the temple premises. Also read | Indian parliamentary breach accused undergo narco test in Gujarat However, he came back and went to the side of the temple where the deities were placed. There, he grabbed a Goddess Laxmi Deity with the intent to throw and smash it, Jayadevan further said. The volunteers, however, managed to hold the idol and no damage was caused to it. "One of the devotees and our volunteers managed to restrain him after he became extremely aggressive, and were successfully able to catch the murti (idol) which was thrown," he said, as per an X post by INSIGHT, a community of British Hindus and Indians. "He then went to Navagraha (nine deities) stand and there were brass diyas (lamp) there. He smashed one of the Navagraha structures and tried to shake one of the Navgrahas," Jayadevan was quoted as saying by Times Of India. "During this time, he was reciting Quranic verses," he further claimed. Also read | Indian defence minister meets UK PM in London Man detained The man was detained by volunteers and the Metropolitan Police were called. The man even tried to assault an officer. In a statement, the police said "Shortly after 1.30 pm on January 6, police were called to a man who had entered a Hindu temple in Wembley. It was reported that the 22-year-old man was causing a significant disturbance inside the temple. Officers attended, and the man was detained. He was taken to hospital as a precaution due to his elevated heart rate and subsequently arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and taken into police custody." However, the man was not booked for vandalism, as "no one present wished to substantiate any related criminal allegation." (With inputs from agencies)

England-based Shiva temple vandalised by man allegedly reciting Quran verses

<p lang="en-US">The latest business venture of social media tycoon Mark Zuckerberg – which involves raising “world-class” beef cattle by feeding them beer and nuts in his luxurious Hawaiian hideaway – was derided by the netizens as out of touch and environmentally hazardous.<br />
<br />
On Wednesday (Jan 10), the Meta CEO shared a picture of himself eating a steak, which was medium rare, with no sides, and was made using beef from his Ko’olau ranch, which is a 1,400-acre compound located on Kauai, the oldest island of Hawaii.<br />
<br />
Taking to Instagram, Zuckerberg wrote, “Started raising cattle at [the] Ko’olau ranch on Kauai, and my goal is to create some of the highest quality beef in the world.”<br />
<br />
The post updated the world with how the sixth richest man in the world is farming wagyu and Angus cattle which yield some of the most expensive meat in the world.</p>

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<p>“Each cow eats 5,000-10,000lbs of food each year, so that’s a lot of acres of macadamia trees. My daughters help plant the mac trees and take care of our different animals. We’re still early in the journey and it’s fun improving on it every season. Of all my projects, this is the most delicious,” said Zuckerberg, whose wealth stands at $129 billion currently, as per Bloomberg.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-to-provide-more-age-appropriate-content-to-teens-limit-harmful-items-678613">Meta to provide more ‘age appropriate’ content to teens, limit harmful items</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">The cattle will be fed&nbsp;macadamia nuts and beer. They will be reared in a $100 million compound, which will also have an underground bunker and energy projects, as per a recent investigation conducted by Wired.<br />
<br />
“Raising cattle on water-intensive macadamia nuts and beer is just a billionaire’s strange sideshow. We need real agriculture reform to address the inequities in our food system and the reality of a warming climate,” said Mitch Jones, policy director at Food &amp; Water Watch, a national legal and policy nonprofit, as reported by The Guardian.<br />
<br />
“We need to promote the viability of small and medium-sized farms that work to feed everyone, not just wealthy celebrities,” he added.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Social media users mock Zuckerberg</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The users on social media platform X, which is owned by Zuckerberg’s rival Elon Musk, mocked the new career of Zuckerberg.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg building an apocalypse-proof bunker in Hawaii?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/meta-founder-mark-zuckerberg-building-an-apocalypse-proof-bunker-in-hawaii-670443/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">Animal rights group Peta's Shalin Gala criticised Zuckerberg for being stuck in the “dark ages”.<br />
<br />
Another critic, with the account name coloradotravis, wrote: “The absolute stones it must take post ‘I’m growing a macadamia orchard to feed my artisan wagyu’ during an era of rising populism.”</p>

<p lang="en-US"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The latest business venture of social media tycoon Mark Zuckerberg – which involves raising “world-class” beef cattle by feeding them beer and nuts in his luxurious Hawaiian hideaway – was derided by the netizens as out of touch and environmentally hazardous.

The latest business venture of social media tycoon Mark Zuckerberg – which involves raising “world-class” beef cattle by feeding them beer and nuts in his luxurious Hawaiian hideaway – was derided by the netizens as out of touch and environmentally hazardous. On Wednesday (Jan 10), the Meta CEO shared a picture of himself eating a steak, which was medium rare, with no sides, and was made using beef from his Ko’olau ranch, which is a 1,400-acre compound located on Kauai, the oldest island of Hawaii. Taking to Instagram, Zuckerberg wrote, “Started raising cattle at [the] Ko’olau ranch on Kauai, and my goal is to create some of the highest quality beef in the world.” The post updated the world with how the sixth richest man in the world is farming wagyu and Angus cattle which yield some of the most expensive meat in the world. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mark Zuckerberg (@zuck) × “Each cow eats 5,000-10,000lbs of food each year, so that’s a lot of acres of macadamia trees. My daughters help plant the mac trees and take care of our different animals. We’re still early in the journey and it’s fun improving on it every season. Of all my projects, this is the most delicious,” said Zuckerberg, whose wealth stands at $129 billion currently, as per Bloomberg. Also read: Meta to provide more ‘age appropriate’ content to teens, limit harmful items The cattle will be fed macadamia nuts and beer. They will be reared in a $100 million compound, which will also have an underground bunker and energy projects, as per a recent investigation conducted by Wired. “Raising cattle on water-intensive macadamia nuts and beer is just a billionaire’s strange sideshow. We need real agriculture reform to address the inequities in our food system and the reality of a warming climate,” said Mitch Jones, policy director at Food & Water Watch, a national legal and policy nonprofit, as reported by The Guardian. “We need to promote the viability of small and medium-sized farms that work to feed everyone, not just wealthy celebrities,” he added. Social media users mock Zuckerberg The users on social media platform X, which is owned by Zuckerberg’s rival Elon Musk, mocked the new career of Zuckerberg. Watch: Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg building an apocalypse-proof bunker in Hawaii? Animal rights group Peta's Shalin Gala criticised Zuckerberg for being stuck in the “dark ages”. Another critic, with the account name coloradotravis, wrote: “The absolute stones it must take post ‘I’m growing a macadamia orchard to feed my artisan wagyu’ during an era of rising populism.” (With inputs from agencies)

Zuckerberg plans to feed beer to cows to produce 'high-quality' beef, critics hit back

<p>Alaska Airlines said on Wednesday (Jan 10) it would cancel all flights on 737 MAX 9 jets through Saturday (Jan 13) as it continues to wait for regulatory approvals to resume flying after a cabin panel blowout Boeing suggested was caused by a "quality" issue.</p>

<p>The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Saturday grounded 171 Boeing jets installed with the same panel after the emergency landing, including Alaska Airlines' 65 MAX 9s.</p>

<p>The move has forced the cancellation of about 20 per cent of the Seattle-based airline's daily schedule for five consecutive days and 150 flights for Thursday.</p>

<p>United Airlines, the other US 737 MAX 9 operator with 79 of the planes in its fleet, said it had cancelled 167 flights on Wednesday and expected "significant" cancellations on Thursday as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg declined to say on Wednesday when the FAA may allow the planes to resume flights but said it would only be when safe.</p>

<p>"The only consideration on the timeline is safety," Buttigieg told reporters. "Until it is ready, it is not ready. Nobody can or should be rushed in that process."</p>

<p>Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun told CNBC on Wednesday that a "quality escape" was at issue in the MAX 9 cabin blowout that left a gaping hole in the plane that had been in service for just eight weeks, but added key questions remained.</p>

<p>"What broke down in our gauntlet of inspections? What broke down in the original work that allowed for that escape to happen?" Calhoun said.</p>

<p>A quality escape was "a description of what people are finding in their inspections...anything that could potentially contribute to an accident," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Boeing on Tuesday told staff the findings were being treated as a "quality control issue" and checks were underway at Boeing and supplier Spirit AeroSystems, Reuters reported previously.</p>

<p>Calhoun said he had spoken to Buttigieg and FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker to ensure there was no repeat of the cabin panel blowout on any MAX 9 after Friday's incident.</p>

<p>The grounding has rekindled frustration among airlines over the planemaker's struggle to contain a series of safety and supply crises, industry officials and experts said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US grounds 171 Boeing planes after Alaska Airlines window blows out mid-air</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-grounds-171-boeing-planes-after-alaska-airlines-window-blows-out-mid-air-677387/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Inspection instructions needed</strong></h2>

<p>Alaska Airlines and United said on Monday they had found loose parts on multiple grounded aircraft, raising new concerns among industry experts about how Boeing's best-selling jet family is manufactured.</p>

<p>The carriers still need revised inspection and maintenance instructions from Boeing that must be approved by the FAA before they can begin flying the planes again.</p>

<p>"We will only return these aircraft to service when all findings have been fully resolved and meet all FAA and Alaska’s stringent standards," Alaska Airlines said.</p>

<p>The International Association of Machinists (IAM), a union representing workers at fuselage maker Spirit and at Boeing's factory in Renton, Washington that produces the 737, has been appointed a party to the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board's (NTSB) investigation, an IAM spokesperson said on Wednesday evening.</p>

<p>The spokesperson did not provide further details.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-how-the-newly-found-door-plug-may-help-understand-alaska-airlines-mid-air-blowout-678113"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Here's how the newly-found door 'plug' may help understand Alaska Airlines' mid-air blowout</strong></a></p>

<p>The NTSB confirmed the IAM's involvement. Spirit's interim CEO Patrick Shanahan was in Seattle over the weekend at Boeing's invitation in a crisis room "listening to all of what we are trying to collect in the production process, taken it back to his team, interrogating their processes, alongside of our people," Calhoun said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spirit said on Wednesday a company team was now supporting the NTSB's investigation directly, adding it remained "focused on the quality of each aircraft structure that leaves our facilities."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The NTSB is focusing in part on whether the recovered cabin panel that blew off had been properly attached. Buttigieg said he told Calhoun how important it was for Boeing to address the issue in the MAX 9 and to ensure every plane it delivered was "100 per cent safe."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Buttigieg said the FAA "will continue with a very, very strict level of oversight" to ensure that.</p>

<p>The transportation secretary said he had also spoken to the United and Alaska Airlines CEOs and they agreed to take care of passengers whose flights have been cancelled because of the grounding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Buttigieg said the dramatic photos of the gaping hole led him to think what he would have done in that circumstance, which NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy described as "terrifying".</p>

<p>"I was on a plane a day or two later, with my two-year-old son sitting in the window seat next to me," Buttigieg said. "No passengers should go through what those passengers went through."</p>


Alaska Airlines said on Wednesday (Jan 10) it would cancel all flights on 737 MAX 9 jets through Saturday (Jan 13) as it continues to wait for regulatory approvals to resume flying after a cabin panel blowout Boeing suggested was caused by a "quality" issue.

Alaska Airlines said on Wednesday (Jan 10) it would cancel all flights on 737 MAX 9 jets through Saturday (Jan 13) as it continues to wait for regulatory approvals to resume flying after a cabin panel blowout Boeing suggested was caused by a "quality" issue. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Saturday grounded 171 Boeing jets installed with the same panel after the emergency landing, including Alaska Airlines' 65 MAX 9s. The move has forced the cancellation of about 20 per cent of the Seattle-based airline's daily schedule for five consecutive days and 150 flights for Thursday. United Airlines, the other US 737 MAX 9 operator with 79 of the planes in its fleet, said it had cancelled 167 flights on Wednesday and expected "significant" cancellations on Thursday as well. US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg declined to say on Wednesday when the FAA may allow the planes to resume flights but said it would only be when safe. "The only consideration on the timeline is safety," Buttigieg told reporters. "Until it is ready, it is not ready. Nobody can or should be rushed in that process." Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun told CNBC on Wednesday that a "quality escape" was at issue in the MAX 9 cabin blowout that left a gaping hole in the plane that had been in service for just eight weeks, but added key questions remained. "What broke down in our gauntlet of inspections? What broke down in the original work that allowed for that escape to happen?" Calhoun said. A quality escape was "a description of what people are finding in their inspections...anything that could potentially contribute to an accident," he added. Boeing on Tuesday told staff the findings were being treated as a "quality control issue" and checks were underway at Boeing and supplier Spirit AeroSystems, Reuters reported previously. Calhoun said he had spoken to Buttigieg and FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker to ensure there was no repeat of the cabin panel blowout on any MAX 9 after Friday's incident. The grounding has rekindled frustration among airlines over the planemaker's struggle to contain a series of safety and supply crises, industry officials and experts said. Watch: US grounds 171 Boeing planes after Alaska Airlines window blows out mid-air Inspection instructions needed Alaska Airlines and United said on Monday they had found loose parts on multiple grounded aircraft, raising new concerns among industry experts about how Boeing's best-selling jet family is manufactured. The carriers still need revised inspection and maintenance instructions from Boeing that must be approved by the FAA before they can begin flying the planes again. "We will only return these aircraft to service when all findings have been fully resolved and meet all FAA and Alaska’s stringent standards," Alaska Airlines said. The International Association of Machinists (IAM), a union representing workers at fuselage maker Spirit and at Boeing's factory in Renton, Washington that produces the 737, has been appointed a party to the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board's (NTSB) investigation, an IAM spokesperson said on Wednesday evening. The spokesperson did not provide further details. Also read | Here's how the newly-found door 'plug' may help understand Alaska Airlines' mid-air blowout The NTSB confirmed the IAM's involvement. Spirit's interim CEO Patrick Shanahan was in Seattle over the weekend at Boeing's invitation in a crisis room "listening to all of what we are trying to collect in the production process, taken it back to his team, interrogating their processes, alongside of our people," Calhoun said. Spirit said on Wednesday a company team was now supporting the NTSB's investigation directly, adding it remained "focused on the quality of each aircraft structure that leaves our facilities." The NTSB is focusing in part on whether the recovered cabin panel that blew off had been properly attached. Buttigieg said he told Calhoun how important it was for Boeing to address the issue in the MAX 9 and to ensure every plane it delivered was "100 per cent safe." Buttigieg said the FAA "will continue with a very, very strict level of oversight" to ensure that. The transportation secretary said he had also spoken to the United and Alaska Airlines CEOs and they agreed to take care of passengers whose flights have been cancelled because of the grounding. Buttigieg said the dramatic photos of the gaping hole led him to think what he would have done in that circumstance, which NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy described as "terrifying". "I was on a plane a day or two later, with my two-year-old son sitting in the window seat next to me," Buttigieg said. "No passengers should go through what those passengers went through."

Boeing's mid-air door blowout: US transportation head gives no timeline for return of 737 Max 9 planes

<p lang="en-US">The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Wednesday (Jan 10) called for an "immediate" end to attacks being carried out by Yemen's Houthi rebels on the ships present in the Red Sea.<br />
<br />
The resolution which was passed "demands that the Houthis immediately cease all such attacks, which impede global commerce and undermine navigational rights and freedoms as well as regional peace and security." The resolution was adopted after Russia, as well as Algeria, Mozambique and China abstained.<br />
<br />
The intensified attacks by Houthi rebels have forced shipping companies to bypass the route and divert around South Africa's Cape of Good Hope, which has increased the time and cost being spent on their journey.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-thwarts-24-missiles-and-drones-launched-by-houthi-rebels-from-yemen-678400">US and UK thwart 21 missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">Earlier, the UN said that it continued "to be very concerned about the situation in the Red Sea".&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The resolution "condemns in the strongest terms the at least two dozen Huthi attacks on merchant and commercial vessels since November 19, 2023, when the Huthis attacked and seized the Galaxy Leader and its crew," as reported by news agency AFP.<br />
<br />
The Houthis, who have been attacking the international maritime traffic in the Red Sea&nbsp;in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war, have expressed their solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>US, UK mull military action in response to largest Houthi attack</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The US and UK have hinted that they are considering military action against Houthi rebels in Yemen after they repelled their largest attack on Red Sea shipping.<br />
<br />
Carrier-based warships and jets shot down 21 drones and missiles which were launched on Tuesday (Jan 9) by the Iran-backed group.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch: Houthis fire missiles &amp; drones in Red Sea, one of the biggest Houthi attacks till now&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/houthis-fire-missiles-drones-in-red-sea-one-of-the-biggest-houthi-attacks-till-now-wion-678552/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">The allies further warned of "consequences" in case of such attacks. Speaking about potential strikes in Yemen, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said, "Watch this space".<br />
<br />
The Houthis said that a US ship, which was providing support to Israel, was targeted by them. The rebels have claimed repeatedly that they have launched attacks on merchant vessels which are linked to Israel, in protest of the actions taken by the IDF in the war in Gaza.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Wednesday (Jan 10) called for an "immediate" end to attacks being carried out by Yemen's Houthi rebels on the ships present in the Red Sea.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Wednesday (Jan 10) called for an "immediate" end to attacks being carried out by Yemen's Houthi rebels on the ships present in the Red Sea. The resolution which was passed "demands that the Houthis immediately cease all such attacks, which impede global commerce and undermine navigational rights and freedoms as well as regional peace and security." The resolution was adopted after Russia, as well as Algeria, Mozambique and China abstained. The intensified attacks by Houthi rebels have forced shipping companies to bypass the route and divert around South Africa's Cape of Good Hope, which has increased the time and cost being spent on their journey. Also read: US and UK thwart 21 missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen Earlier, the UN said that it continued "to be very concerned about the situation in the Red Sea". The resolution "condemns in the strongest terms the at least two dozen Huthi attacks on merchant and commercial vessels since November 19, 2023, when the Huthis attacked and seized the Galaxy Leader and its crew," as reported by news agency AFP. The Houthis, who have been attacking the international maritime traffic in the Red Sea in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war, have expressed their solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza. US, UK mull military action in response to largest Houthi attack The US and UK have hinted that they are considering military action against Houthi rebels in Yemen after they repelled their largest attack on Red Sea shipping. Carrier-based warships and jets shot down 21 drones and missiles which were launched on Tuesday (Jan 9) by the Iran-backed group. Watch: Houthis fire missiles & drones in Red Sea, one of the biggest Houthi attacks till now The allies further warned of "consequences" in case of such attacks. Speaking about potential strikes in Yemen, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said, "Watch this space". The Houthis said that a US ship, which was providing support to Israel, was targeted by them. The rebels have claimed repeatedly that they have launched attacks on merchant vessels which are linked to Israel, in protest of the actions taken by the IDF in the war in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

UNSC calls for 'immediate end' to attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels in Red Sea

Israel-Hamas war | IDF says it has found evidence of hostages in Khan Younis tunnel

<p>In a Republican debate that featured insults mixed with policy, US presidential hopefuls Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley repeatedly accused each other of lying. On Wednesday, in the final&nbsp; debate before the nominating process known as primaries begins, the Florida governor and former US Ambassador to UN&nbsp;pitched their bids to Republicans, battling to emerge as the top alternative to favourite Donald Trump.</p>

<p>Days before the campaign's first votes are to be cast, the two battled to be the GOP's candidate in the 2024 US presidential election.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Verbal ammunition flies thick and fast</strong></h2>

<p>Former US president Donald Trump was once again absent from the debate held in Iowa's capital, Des Moines. The two present at the debate, DeSantis and Haley, bombarded each other with a slew of insults, engaging in an increasingly rancorous battle.</p>

<p>At one point, DeSantis referred to Haley as a "mealy-mouthed politician".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/creme-de-la-creme-these-are-the-worlds-most-powerful-passports-india-pakistan-rank-at-these-positions-678821">Crème de la crème: These are the world's most powerful passports; India, Pakistan rank at these positions</a></strong></p>

<p>"We don't need another mealy-mouthed politician who just tells you what she thinks you want to hear just to try to get your vote, then to get an office and to do her donors' bidding," he said.</p>

<p>"Donald Trump is running to pursue his issues. Nikki Haley is running to pursue her donors' issues. I'm running to pursue your issues and your family's issues and to turn this country around," he added.</p>

<p>Haley also made it obvious that the gloves were off. Hitting out at rival DeSantis' runaway campaign, she, as per AFP, repeatedly directed the audience to a website dedicated to documenting his "lies".</p>

<p>"Every time he lies… don't turn this into a drinking game because you will be over-served by the end of the night," said Haley.</p>

<h2><strong>Donald Trump absent, Chris Christie drops out</strong></h2>

<p>Trump, the clear frontrunner, was noticeably absent from the head-to-head showdown just five days before Iowa's pivotal opening vote in the primary season.</p>

<p>Chris Christie, Trump's most vocal critic in the Republican Party, dropped out just hours earlier. With no other candidates qualifying, Haley and DeSantis were expected to take potshots at Trump. However, the two mainly were seen competing to be his closest runner-up.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-trump-critic-chris-christie-drops-out-of-2024-white-house-race-678791">US elections: Trump critic Chris Christie drops out of 2024 presidential race</a></strong></p>

<p>Haley, for the most part, stuck to her campaign line that Trump was "the right president at the right time" but that "his way is not my way."</p>

<p>At one point, she did criticise Trump over his bogus claims of a stolen election in 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>DeSantis was tougher on Trump and briefly hit out at his 'poor record' on curbing public disorder, broken promises on border security and failure to attack Washington's corruption.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a Republican debate that featured insults mixed with policy, US presidential hopefuls Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley repeatedly accused each other of lying. On Wednesday, in the final debate before the nominating process known as primaries begins, the Florida governor and former US Ambassador to UN pitched their bids to Republicans, battling to emerge as the top alternative to favourite Donald Trump.

In a Republican debate that featured insults mixed with policy, US presidential hopefuls Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley repeatedly accused each other of lying. On Wednesday, in the final debate before the nominating process known as primaries begins, the Florida governor and former US Ambassador to UN pitched their bids to Republicans, battling to emerge as the top alternative to favourite Donald Trump. Days before the campaign's first votes are to be cast, the two battled to be the GOP's candidate in the 2024 US presidential election. Verbal ammunition flies thick and fast Former US president Donald Trump was once again absent from the debate held in Iowa's capital, Des Moines. The two present at the debate, DeSantis and Haley, bombarded each other with a slew of insults, engaging in an increasingly rancorous battle. At one point, DeSantis referred to Haley as a "mealy-mouthed politician". Also read | Crème de la crème: These are the world's most powerful passports; India, Pakistan rank at these positions "We don't need another mealy-mouthed politician who just tells you what she thinks you want to hear just to try to get your vote, then to get an office and to do her donors' bidding," he said. "Donald Trump is running to pursue his issues. Nikki Haley is running to pursue her donors' issues. I'm running to pursue your issues and your family's issues and to turn this country around," he added. Haley also made it obvious that the gloves were off. Hitting out at rival DeSantis' runaway campaign, she, as per AFP, repeatedly directed the audience to a website dedicated to documenting his "lies". "Every time he lies… don't turn this into a drinking game because you will be over-served by the end of the night," said Haley. Donald Trump absent, Chris Christie drops out Trump, the clear frontrunner, was noticeably absent from the head-to-head showdown just five days before Iowa's pivotal opening vote in the primary season. Chris Christie, Trump's most vocal critic in the Republican Party, dropped out just hours earlier. With no other candidates qualifying, Haley and DeSantis were expected to take potshots at Trump. However, the two mainly were seen competing to be his closest runner-up. Also read | US elections: Trump critic Chris Christie drops out of 2024 presidential race Haley, for the most part, stuck to her campaign line that Trump was "the right president at the right time" but that "his way is not my way." At one point, she did criticise Trump over his bogus claims of a stolen election in 2020. DeSantis was tougher on Trump and briefly hit out at his 'poor record' on curbing public disorder, broken promises on border security and failure to attack Washington's corruption. (With inputs from agencies)

'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate

World court hears South Africa's genocide case against Israel

<p lang="en-US">Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, who just exited the Republican race for US presidential nomination,&nbsp;was caught on hot mic making disparaging comments about his now-former rivals Nikki Haley and Ron Desantis.</p>

<p lang="en-US">In audio circulating on the internet, Christie described South Carolina governor Nikki Haley as “not up to this” and that she is "going to get smoked", while adding that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was “petrified”.</p>

<p lang="en-US">The hot mic conversation took place hours before he dropped out of the 2024 Republican presidential race on Wednesday (Jan 10).<br />
<br />
Before announcing the suspension of his campaign in Windham, New Hampshire, Christie said Haley "spent $68 million so far just on TV” adverts, and later added that DeSantis had spent “$59 million … and we’ve spent 12 [million]”, as reported by New York Post.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Chris Christie caught on HOT MIC saying Nikki Haley is "gonna get smoked" <a href="https://t.co/V4BR2zTYZQ">https://t.co/V4BR2zTYZQ</a> via <a href="https://twitter.com/YouTube?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YouTube</a></p>
— 🇺🇸 CANDY🇺🇸 (@Upalllnite) <a href="https://twitter.com/Upalllnite/status/1745317335190171972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Who’s punching above their weight and who’s getting a return on their investment?” said Christie, adding, “You know? And she’s going to get smoked. And you and I both know it, she’s not up to this.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-trump-critic-chris-christie-drops-out-of-2024-white-house-race-678791">US elections: Trump critic Chris Christie drops out of 2024 presidential race</a></p>

<p>He said “DeSantis called me petrified that I would,” further referring to exiting the race. “He’s probably getting out after Iowa,” another person was heard saying.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I promise you this: I will make sure that in no way do I enable Donald Trump to ever be President of the United States again. That’s more important than my own personal ambition. <a href="https://t.co/f9epxUxRM0">pic.twitter.com/f9epxUxRM0</a></p>
— Chris Christie (@GovChristie) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovChristie/status/1745232401700119025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>DeSantis thanks Christie for participating in 2024 campaign</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">As per a media report, DeSantis had called Christie and thanked him for participating in the 2024 campaign, before the announcement was made.<br />
<br />
As per the source, Christie further complained about Haley and also said told DeSantis that she was a “joke,” had “performed terribly” and was “not up to the task.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I agree with Christie that Nikki Haley is “going to get smoked.”</p>
— Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) <a href="https://twitter.com/RonDeSantis/status/1745214245501874209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>After dropping out of the presidential race, Christie also took a dig at former US president Donald Trump.</p>

<p>“I promise you this: I will make sure that in no way do I enable Donald Trump to ever be President of the United States again. That’s more important than my own personal ambition,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US Presidential Elections 2024: Race for white house heats up</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-presidential-elections-2024-race-for-white-house-heats-up-673081/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The exit of Christie came shortly before the final GOP debate had to begin.</p>

<p>The final GOP debate saw a faceoff between only two Republican presidential candidates - former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.<br />
<br />
Christie's departure from the presidential elections comes five days before the Iowa caucuses, which will be the first of the state-by-state contests in which the preferred candidate for president's position will be chosen by Republican voters.<br />
<br />
In July, the winner of the contests will be anointed the Republican nominee for the presidential candidate, before he or she goes on to challenge the Democratic nominee - most likely Joe Biden - in the general election to be held in November.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, who just exited the Republican race for US presidential nomination, was caught on hot mic making disparaging comments about his now-former rivals Nikki Haley and Ron Desantis.

Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, who just exited the Republican race for US presidential nomination, was caught on hot mic making disparaging comments about his now-former rivals Nikki Haley and Ron Desantis. In audio circulating on the internet, Christie described South Carolina governor Nikki Haley as “not up to this” and that she is "going to get smoked", while adding that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was “petrified”. The hot mic conversation took place hours before he dropped out of the 2024 Republican presidential race on Wednesday (Jan 10). Before announcing the suspension of his campaign in Windham, New Hampshire, Christie said Haley "spent $68 million so far just on TV” adverts, and later added that DeSantis had spent “$59 million … and we’ve spent 12 [million]”, as reported by New York Post. Chris Christie caught on HOT MIC saying Nikki Haley is "gonna get smoked" https://t.co/V4BR2zTYZQ via @YouTube — 🇺🇸 CANDY🇺🇸 (@Upalllnite) January 11, 2024 × “Who’s punching above their weight and who’s getting a return on their investment?” said Christie, adding, “You know? And she’s going to get smoked. And you and I both know it, she’s not up to this.” Also read: US elections: Trump critic Chris Christie drops out of 2024 presidential race He said “DeSantis called me petrified that I would,” further referring to exiting the race. “He’s probably getting out after Iowa,” another person was heard saying. I promise you this: I will make sure that in no way do I enable Donald Trump to ever be President of the United States again. That’s more important than my own personal ambition. pic.twitter.com/f9epxUxRM0 — Chris Christie (@GovChristie) January 10, 2024 × DeSantis thanks Christie for participating in 2024 campaign As per a media report, DeSantis had called Christie and thanked him for participating in the 2024 campaign, before the announcement was made. As per the source, Christie further complained about Haley and also said told DeSantis that she was a “joke,” had “performed terribly” and was “not up to the task.” I agree with Christie that Nikki Haley is “going to get smoked.” — Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) January 10, 2024 × After dropping out of the presidential race, Christie also took a dig at former US president Donald Trump. “I promise you this: I will make sure that in no way do I enable Donald Trump to ever be President of the United States again. That’s more important than my own personal ambition,” he said. Watch: US Presidential Elections 2024: Race for white house heats up The exit of Christie came shortly before the final GOP debate had to begin. The final GOP debate saw a faceoff between only two Republican presidential candidates - former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Christie's departure from the presidential elections comes five days before the Iowa caucuses, which will be the first of the state-by-state contests in which the preferred candidate for president's position will be chosen by Republican voters. In July, the winner of the contests will be anointed the Republican nominee for the presidential candidate, before he or she goes on to challenge the Democratic nominee - most likely Joe Biden - in the general election to be held in November. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Chris Christie claims Nikki Haley will ‘get smoked’ in viral hot mic moment

<p lang="en-US">Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dropped out of the Republican presidential nomination race for the 2024 US elections, with a parting shot at frontrunner and former president Donald Trump.<br />
<br />
"I am going to make sure that in no way do I enable Donald Trump to ever be president of the United States again," said the Trump ally-turned-critic.<br />
<br />
"It's clear to me tonight that there isn't a path for me to win the nomination, which is why I'm suspending my campaign tonight for president of the United States," said Christie, while speaking to the supporters at an event held in Windham, New Hampshire.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-arrives-in-court-asking-for-immunity-against-election-interference-charges-678338">Trump warns of 'bedlam' in US if court cases against him go ahead</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">The Republican candidate was facing pressure to step aside and allow the party to unify around a viable challenger to Trump. Christie bowed out of the race without endorsing anyone.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Christie takes a dig at Haley on a hot mic</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">However, on a hot mic, minutes before announcing that he was stepping away from the race, Christie predicted that former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who is gaining on Trump in a few polls, was "going to get smoked, and you and I both know it".<br />
<br />
"She's not up to this," Christie added. He further said that even Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was "petrified". At a town hall event held in New Hampshire, United States on Wednesday afternoon (Jan 10), the 61-year-old said that he is suspending his election campaign.<br />
<br />
In his remarks, he called on the Republican voters to not support the former president who he said has been accused of "putting himself before the people of this country".<br />
<br />
"Donald Trump wants you to be angry every day because he is angry," DeSantis added.<br />
<br />
Christie's departure from the presidential elections comes five days before the Iowa caucuses, which will be the first of the state-by-state contests in which the preferred candidate for president's position will be chosen by Republican voters.<br />
<br />
In July, the winner of the contests will be anointed the Republican nominee, before he goes on to challenge the Democratic nominee, which is most likely going to be Joe Biden - in the general election to be held in November.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US Elections 2024: DeSantis &amp; Haley seek to be alternative to Donald Trump</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-2024-desantis-haley-seek-to-be-alternative-to-donald-trump-677392/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">Christie was facing pressure to drop out ahead of the second election in New Hampshire, where Haley is now running for second position in some polls, just behind Trump. The northeastern state has a major faction of unaffiliated voters and is known to deliver unpredictable results.<br />
<br />
Haley, in a statement, called Christie "a friend for many years" and commended him "on a hard-fought campaign". However, her opponents were quick to chime in on social media.<br />
<br />
Commenting on Christie's dig, DeSantis said he agreed Haley is "going to get smoked". Trump said he "might even get to like (Christie) again" following his "very truthful statement" about Haley.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dropped out of the Republican presidential nomination race for the 2024 US elections, with a parting shot at frontrunner and former president Donald Trump.

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dropped out of the Republican presidential nomination race for the 2024 US elections, with a parting shot at frontrunner and former president Donald Trump. "I am going to make sure that in no way do I enable Donald Trump to ever be president of the United States again," said the Trump ally-turned-critic. "It's clear to me tonight that there isn't a path for me to win the nomination, which is why I'm suspending my campaign tonight for president of the United States," said Christie, while speaking to the supporters at an event held in Windham, New Hampshire. Also read: Trump warns of 'bedlam' in US if court cases against him go ahead The Republican candidate was facing pressure to step aside and allow the party to unify around a viable challenger to Trump. Christie bowed out of the race without endorsing anyone. Christie takes a dig at Haley on a hot mic However, on a hot mic, minutes before announcing that he was stepping away from the race, Christie predicted that former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who is gaining on Trump in a few polls, was "going to get smoked, and you and I both know it". "She's not up to this," Christie added. He further said that even Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was "petrified". At a town hall event held in New Hampshire, United States on Wednesday afternoon (Jan 10), the 61-year-old said that he is suspending his election campaign. In his remarks, he called on the Republican voters to not support the former president who he said has been accused of "putting himself before the people of this country". "Donald Trump wants you to be angry every day because he is angry," DeSantis added. Christie's departure from the presidential elections comes five days before the Iowa caucuses, which will be the first of the state-by-state contests in which the preferred candidate for president's position will be chosen by Republican voters. In July, the winner of the contests will be anointed the Republican nominee, before he goes on to challenge the Democratic nominee, which is most likely going to be Joe Biden - in the general election to be held in November. Watch: US Elections 2024: DeSantis & Haley seek to be alternative to Donald Trump Christie was facing pressure to drop out ahead of the second election in New Hampshire, where Haley is now running for second position in some polls, just behind Trump. The northeastern state has a major faction of unaffiliated voters and is known to deliver unpredictable results. Haley, in a statement, called Christie "a friend for many years" and commended him "on a hard-fought campaign". However, her opponents were quick to chime in on social media. Commenting on Christie's dig, DeSantis said he agreed Haley is "going to get smoked". Trump said he "might even get to like (Christie) again" following his "very truthful statement" about Haley. (With inputs from agencies)

US elections: Trump critic Chris Christie drops out of 2024 presidential race

International Court of Justice to hears South Africa's petition against Israel

<p>China and Maldives on Wednesday 'upgraded' their bilateral ties and signed 20 key agreements, including one in which Beijing pledged to extend funding for infrastructure in the Indian Ocean archipelago. The upgraded ties come amid the ongoing India-Maldives row and as New Delhi and Beijing tussle for influence.</p>

<p>The agreements, including ones on climate, agriculture and infrastructure, were signed during the Maldives' newly elected President Mohamed Muizzu's first state visit to China.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>An old friend</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking at an event at China's Great Hall of the People, Chinese President Xi Jinping referred to Muizzu as "an old friend".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-govt-must-make-stronger-statement-to-repair-ties-with-india-says-maldives-oppo-leader-amid-row-678687">‘Maldives govt must make stronger statement to repair ties with India,’ says Maldives oppn leader</a></strong></p>

<p>As per media reports, he told the Maldivian President that "China and the Maldives' relations are facing a historic opportunity to carry forward the past and forge ahead into the future."</p>

<p>Xi, as per reports, "stressed that China respects and supports the Maldives in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India-Maldives Row: Maldives faces heat over anti-India comments, proposes Muizzu's visit to India</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-maldives-row-maldives-faces-heat-over-anti-india-comments-proposes-muizzus-visit-to-india-678169/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The two leaders, as per AFP, issued a joint communique detailing the "broad consensus" reached by them.</p>

<p>China, according to the statement published on state broadcaster CCTV, has vowed to "continue to provide support within its capacity to the Maldives side in areas of priority concern" including "infrastructure construction, medical care and health care, improvement of people's livelihoods, new energy sources, agriculture, and marine environmental protection".</p>

<p>The Maldivian President thanked Beijing for its "selfless assistance" in providing his country with development funds.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-imposes-five-year-anti-dumping-duty-on-chinese-products-report-678861">India imposes five-year anti-dumping duty on Chinese products: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>He also said that Beijing "supports the Maldives firmly in safeguarding its national sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national dignity".</p>

<h2><strong>Muizzu's anti-India campaign</strong></h2>

<p>President Mohamed Muizzu took office in November. During his winning campaign, Muizzu had cast China's regional rival India and its influence as a threat to sovereignty.</p>

<p>Since November, the Muizzu government has asked dozens of locally based Indian personnel to leave Maldives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per World Bank estimates, Maldives owes China about 43 per cent of its national debt which comes up to $3 billion.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


China and Maldives on Wednesday 'upgraded' their bilateral ties and signed 20 key agreements, including one in which Beijing pledged to extend funding for infrastructure in the Indian Ocean archipelago.

China and Maldives on Wednesday 'upgraded' their bilateral ties and signed 20 key agreements, including one in which Beijing pledged to extend funding for infrastructure in the Indian Ocean archipelago. The upgraded ties come amid the ongoing India-Maldives row and as New Delhi and Beijing tussle for influence. The agreements, including ones on climate, agriculture and infrastructure, were signed during the Maldives' newly elected President Mohamed Muizzu's first state visit to China. An old friend Speaking at an event at China's Great Hall of the People, Chinese President Xi Jinping referred to Muizzu as "an old friend". Also read | ‘Maldives govt must make stronger statement to repair ties with India,’ says Maldives oppn leader As per media reports, he told the Maldivian President that "China and the Maldives' relations are facing a historic opportunity to carry forward the past and forge ahead into the future." Xi, as per reports, "stressed that China respects and supports the Maldives in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions". Watch | India-Maldives Row: Maldives faces heat over anti-India comments, proposes Muizzu's visit to India The two leaders, as per AFP, issued a joint communique detailing the "broad consensus" reached by them. China, according to the statement published on state broadcaster CCTV, has vowed to "continue to provide support within its capacity to the Maldives side in areas of priority concern" including "infrastructure construction, medical care and health care, improvement of people's livelihoods, new energy sources, agriculture, and marine environmental protection". The Maldivian President thanked Beijing for its "selfless assistance" in providing his country with development funds. Also read | India imposes five-year anti-dumping duty on Chinese products: Report He also said that Beijing "supports the Maldives firmly in safeguarding its national sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national dignity". Muizzu's anti-India campaign President Mohamed Muizzu took office in November. During his winning campaign, Muizzu had cast China's regional rival India and its influence as a threat to sovereignty. Since November, the Muizzu government has asked dozens of locally based Indian personnel to leave Maldives. As per World Bank estimates, Maldives owes China about 43 per cent of its national debt which comes up to $3 billion. (With inputs from agencies)

'Old friends' China and Maldives sign 20 key agreements amid row with India

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie on Wednesday suspended his campaign for president. He has cast his decision as part of an effort to prevent former president Donald Trump being re-elected.

US Presidential elections: Chris Christie drops out of Republican Presidential race

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