In pics | Winter storm brings strong winds, rainfall and heavy snow in parts of US

In the United Kingdom, a majority of police forces now allow trans-identifying, which&nbsp;means&nbsp;biologically male officers can&nbsp;strip-search women. This, as per the Women's Rights Network, would lead to "state-sanctioned sexual assault".

Heather Binning, founder of the organisation which works toward "defending the sex-based rights of women and girls," alleged that police leaders have failed the public by pandering to vocal lobbyists.&nbsp;

<h2>"Must not be tolerated"</h2>

A report titled 'State Sanctioned Sexual Assault' by the Women's Rights Network found that of the 43 police forces in England and Wales, at least 34 have either already implemented such a policy or they intend to.&nbsp;

Condemning this, Binning said: "Self-identification is not UK law and women should not be paying the price for policing beyond the law."

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"Police chiefs have failed us again. This is not reasonable or lawful, and we do not consent. It is state-sanctioned sexual assault, and it must not be tolerated," she added.

<h2>Too progressive?</h2>

Talking to Daily Mail, a serving female police officer said that she feared "both for my colleagues and for vulnerable suspects".

She claimed&nbsp;that she was threatened with disciplinary action for questioning the policies.

"A strip search is a humiliating and potentially traumatic experience and everything should be done to ensure a suspect is treated with dignity and respect," she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-rishis-raw-deal-labour-party-attacks-sunak-in-latest-ad-677451">What is Rishi’s ‘raw deal’? Labour party attacks Sunak in latest ad campaign</a>

As per a Daily Mail report, guidelines already in place mandate female officers to carry out intimate searches of "a biological male suspect if they identify as a woman". Those who refuse could be accused of causing a hate incident and may face possible disciplinary action.

Cathy Larkman, a retired police superintendent and the author of the Women's Rights Network report, said that dozens of police officers have approached the organisation to voice their concerns. However, a culture of fear within the police forces prevents them from speaking out, she claimed.

Larkman said that the police bosses had failed women by indulging in demands of vocal trans lobbyists.

Previously, an NPCC spokesperson had clarified that "All searches are dealt with on a case-by-case basis after consideration by a custody sergeant based on the response of the detainee. All searches are carried out in line with the officer&nbsp;or staff member's training and legal authority."

(With inputs from agencies)

In the United Kingdom, a majority of police forces now allow trans-identifying, which means biologically male officers can strip-search women. This, as per the Women's Rights Network, would lead to "state-sanctioned sexual assault".

In the United Kingdom, a majority of police forces now allow trans-identifying, which means biologically male officers can strip-search women. This, as per the Women's Rights Network, would lead to "state-sanctioned sexual assault". Heather Binning, founder of the organisation which works toward "defending the sex-based rights of women and girls," alleged that police leaders have failed the public by pandering to vocal lobbyists. "Must not be tolerated" A report titled 'State Sanctioned Sexual Assault' by the Women's Rights Network found that of the 43 police forces in England and Wales, at least 34 have either already implemented such a policy or they intend to. Condemning this, Binning said: "Self-identification is not UK law and women should not be paying the price for policing beyond the law." Also read | Trump calls Jan 6 rioters 'hostages,' skips signing Illinois loyalty oath promising to not overthrow govt "Police chiefs have failed us again. This is not reasonable or lawful, and we do not consent. It is state-sanctioned sexual assault, and it must not be tolerated," she added. Too progressive? Talking to Daily Mail, a serving female police officer said that she feared "both for my colleagues and for vulnerable suspects". She claimed that she was threatened with disciplinary action for questioning the policies. "A strip search is a humiliating and potentially traumatic experience and everything should be done to ensure a suspect is treated with dignity and respect," she added. Also read | What is Rishi’s ‘raw deal’? Labour party attacks Sunak in latest ad campaign As per a Daily Mail report, guidelines already in place mandate female officers to carry out intimate searches of "a biological male suspect if they identify as a woman". Those who refuse could be accused of causing a hate incident and may face possible disciplinary action. Cathy Larkman, a retired police superintendent and the author of the Women's Rights Network report, said that dozens of police officers have approached the organisation to voice their concerns. However, a culture of fear within the police forces prevents them from speaking out, she claimed. Larkman said that the police bosses had failed women by indulging in demands of vocal trans lobbyists. Previously, an NPCC spokesperson had clarified that "All searches are dealt with on a case-by-case basis after consideration by a custody sergeant based on the response of the detainee. All searches are carried out in line with the officer or staff member's training and legal authority." (With inputs from agencies)

'State-sanctioned sexual assault': UK police allowing trans-identifying officers to strip-search women

The social media is filled with 'Boycott Maldives' hashtag. Following derogatory comments by Maldivian officials about Indian PM Narendra Modi. The 3 ministers were soon suspended after their remarks drew criticism from India and abroad.

Maldives-India Row: Maldives sacks ministers Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha & Mahzoom Majid

An anti-hijab advocate in Iran, Roya Heshmati, has been lashed 74 times by Iranian authorities on charges of “injury to public chastity" for not wearing the mandatory head covering.

Iran: Authorities lash anti-hijab advocate for not wearing head covering

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken is on his fourth visit to West Asia since the Israel-Hamas War began. The top US Diplomat has meetings lined up with various leaders of the region shortly after a touchdown in Saudi Arabia.

US Secretary of State on 5-day diplomatic visit to West Asia

The diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives remain strained. Former Maldives vice-president spoke exclusively with WION and termed the current situation 'very sad'. In other news, Pregrine Mission One, America's Moon mission, has developed a snag. The spacecraft is intended to make a landing on lunar surface but the mission is now facing a technical issue. Read this and more in Top 10 world news.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-ex-vice-president-calls-current-india-maldives-row-very-sad-incident-677877">Exclusive: Ex-vice president calls current India-Maldives row ‘very sad’ issue</a>

Former Vice President of the Maldives and former tourism minister Ahmed Adeeb condemned the recent derogatory remarks made against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and weighed in on the India-Maldives relationship.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/08/404464-succession-2024-01-08t181652767.jpg?imwidth=256" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-jihad-releases-video-showing-gaza-hostage-alive-677929">Islamic Jihad releases video showing Gaza hostage alive</a>

As per news agency AFP reports, the man in the video, speaking in English and Hebrew calls for his release and pays tribute to Tamir Adar, another hostage whose death was announced in early January by his kibbutz community in southern Israel.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/08/404498-succession-2024-01-08t212426334.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/peregrine-mission-one-american-moon-lander-suffers-anomaly-677917">Peregrine Mission One: American Moon lander suffers ‘anomaly’</a>

The spacecraft attempted to land on the Moon in more than half a century.

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&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-calls-for-universal-ban-on-despicable-practice-of-surrogate-motherhood-677906">Pope calls for universal ban on ‘despicable’ practice of surrogate motherhood</a>

Pope said there must be a global ban on surrogacy and said that a child is a gift and 'never the basis of a commercial contract' and asked 'to prohibit this practice universally'.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/08/404480-pope-francis.png?imwidth=640" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-indigo-rejects-reports-of-massive-ticket-cancellations-amid-india-maldives-row-677763">'Not true': Sources tell WION amid reports of ticket cancellations to Maldives</a>

Earlier, some unverified reports on Indian social media claimed that more than 8,000 hotel bookings and 2,500 flight tickets to Maldives were cancelled by Indians.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/29/328812-untitled-design-2023-01-29t161816917.png?imwidth=640" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-ex-maldives-defence-minister-mariya-didi-speaks-about-indian-troops-in-maldives-current-situation-677867">Exclusive: Ex-defence minister Mariya Didi speaks about Indian troops in Maldives, current situation</a>

In an exclusive chat, Maria Didi gives an overview of how the people and politicians think about this very important relationship between India and Maldives

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/08/404466-maria-didi-2.png?imwidth=1920" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-president-departs-for-china-amid-diplomatic-row-with-india-677741">Maldives president departs for China amid diplomatic row with India</a>

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu embarked on a trip to China on Sunday night (Jan 7) on his first bilateral visit since he was elected to the office.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/08/404391-untitled-design-2024-01-08t130831950.png?imwidth=640" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strong-wave-of-russian-strikes-hit-areas-across-ukraine-kill-3-and-injure-dozens-677831">Strong wave of Russian strikes hits areas across Ukraine; 3 killed and dozens injured</a>

Some of the Ukrainian targets hit by the Russian projectiles were high-rise buildings and a shopping centre in President Volodymyr Zelensky's hometown Kryvyi Rig, claiming the life of at least one, said Kuleba.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/08/404439-succession-2024-01-08t165046683.jpg?imwidth=640" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-loud-boom-guts-of-wind-alaska-airlines-passengers-recall-the-moment-door-of-plane-fell-off-677838">A loud boom, gusts of wind: Alaska Airlines passengers recall the moment door of plane fell off</a>

One woman passenger reported that she heard a “big bang” and after looking up she found that “the oxygen masks were hanging from the ceiling".

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/08/404444-untitled-design-2024-01-08t170946638.png?imwidth=256" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-sardar-patel-kept-pakistan-from-grabbing-lakshadweep-islands-677850">How Sardar Patel kept Pakistan from grabbing Lakshadweep Islands</a>

Lakshadweep Islands, an important Arabian Sea post was almost captured by Pakistan, had it not been for Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first home minister of post-colonial India who is also regarded as 'Iron man' for his shrewd but far-sighted and inclusive diplomacy.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/31449-untitled%25252520design-20171031050341.jpg?imwidth=640" />

&nbsp;

The diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives remain strained. Former Maldives vice-president spoke exclusively with WION and termed the current situation 'very sad'.

The diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives remain strained. Former Maldives vice-president spoke exclusively with WION and termed the current situation 'very sad'. In other news, Pregrine Mission One, America's Moon mission, has developed a snag. The spacecraft is intended to make a landing on lunar surface but the mission is now facing a technical issue. Read this and more in Top 10 world news. Exclusive: Ex-vice president calls current India-Maldives row ‘very sad’ issue Former Vice President of the Maldives and former tourism minister Ahmed Adeeb condemned the recent derogatory remarks made against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and weighed in on the India-Maldives relationship. Islamic Jihad releases video showing Gaza hostage alive As per news agency AFP reports, the man in the video, speaking in English and Hebrew calls for his release and pays tribute to Tamir Adar, another hostage whose death was announced in early January by his kibbutz community in southern Israel. Peregrine Mission One: American Moon lander suffers ‘anomaly’ The spacecraft attempted to land on the Moon in more than half a century. Pope calls for universal ban on ‘despicable’ practice of surrogate motherhood Pope said there must be a global ban on surrogacy and said that a child is a gift and 'never the basis of a commercial contract' and asked 'to prohibit this practice universally'. 'Not true': Sources tell WION amid reports of ticket cancellations to Maldives Earlier, some unverified reports on Indian social media claimed that more than 8,000 hotel bookings and 2,500 flight tickets to Maldives were cancelled by Indians. Exclusive: Ex-defence minister Mariya Didi speaks about Indian troops in Maldives, current situation In an exclusive chat, Maria Didi gives an overview of how the people and politicians think about this very important relationship between India and Maldives Maldives president departs for China amid diplomatic row with India Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu embarked on a trip to China on Sunday night (Jan 7) on his first bilateral visit since he was elected to the office. Strong wave of Russian strikes hits areas across Ukraine; 3 killed and dozens injured Some of the Ukrainian targets hit by the Russian projectiles were high-rise buildings and a shopping centre in President Volodymyr Zelensky's hometown Kryvyi Rig, claiming the life of at least one, said Kuleba. A loud boom, gusts of wind: Alaska Airlines passengers recall the moment door of plane fell off One woman passenger reported that she heard a “big bang” and after looking up she found that “the oxygen masks were hanging from the ceiling". How Sardar Patel kept Pakistan from grabbing Lakshadweep Islands Lakshadweep Islands, an important Arabian Sea post was almost captured by Pakistan, had it not been for Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first home minister of post-colonial India who is also regarded as 'Iron man' for his shrewd but far-sighted and inclusive diplomacy.

Top 10 world news: India-Maldives row latest, US Moon mission snag, and more

Billionaire hedge-fund manager Bill Ackman has ignited a political storm with his accusations of anti-Semitism and plagiarism against Claudine Gay, Harvard's first Black president. Known for founding Pershing Square Capital Management, Ackman's high-profile financial manoeuvres have seen both significant gains and losses. His recent alignment with conservative groups has sparked criticism and accusations of racial bias in his campaign against Gay.

Claudine Gay plagiarism row: Bill Ackman's wife apologises for plagiarism in her dissertation

Bangladesh's Race to Power: According to reports, Hasina's Awami league won more than half of the seats. At least 18 incidents of arson reported. Watch to know more!

Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina wins election for a fifth term | General Elections 2024

The death of Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri is sparking new worries for many Israelis. Families of hostages are particularly worried that al-Arouri's killing in Beirut risks a wider war and ruins the prospects for any agreement on the release of hostages.

Israel-Hamas war: 3 months on, hostages' kin running out of patience | World News | WION

Myanmar has taken fresh steps to strengthen its economy, the Asian nation has imposed a new income tax rule. Those Myanmar nationals who are working abroad are now subjected to a 2% income tax.

Myanmar Junta announces new tax rules for nationals living abroad, step to boost foreign currency

As Taiwan enters election week, Beijing's aggressive actions have multiplied. Fighter jets, reconnaissance drones and naval ships have reportedly been spotted around the island. Since December, more than 20 balloons have crossed the median line separating China from Taiwan.

China multiplies show of military force as Taiwan enters election week

A senior commander in Hezbollah's elite Radwan force was killed allegedly in an Israeli strike on south Lebanon on Monday (Jan 8), three security sources told the news agency Reuters.

A senior commander in Hezbollah's elite Radwan force was killed allegedly in an Israeli strike on south Lebanon on Monday (Jan 8), three security sources told the news agency Reuters. As per the report, the security sources have identified him as Wissam al-Tawil, the deputy head of a unit within the Radwan force. They said he and another Hezbollah fighter were killed when their car was hit in a strike on the Lebanese village of Majdal Selm. As quoted by the news agency, one of the security sources said: "This is a very painful strike." Another source said that "things will flare up now". Also read: Strong wave of Russian strikes hits areas across Ukraine; 3 killed and dozens injured Ever since the cross-border shelling began in the aftermath of Hamas's attack on Israeli territory on October 7, Israeli bombardment has killed more than 130 Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon. Another 19 have been killed in Syria. Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, who is Hezbollah's secretary-general, warned Israel in two televised addresses last week not to launch a full-scale war on Lebanon. "Whoever thinks of war with us - in one word, he will regret it," Nasrallah said. Also read: Exclusive: Ex-defence minister Mariya Didi speaks about Indian troops in Maldives, current situation Watch: Israeli strike kills two Palestinian journalists in Gaza × Israeli strike in Gaza's Rafah The news agency Reuters reported citing witnesses that three people were killed and over a dozen were injured after a strike in Gaza's Rafah that damaged a car carrying supplies. The report added that those who were injured were transported to the Kuwaiti Hospital in Gaza for urgent medical attention. Some tried to save what was left of the food supplies including bags of flour, tomatoes and meat. Meanwhile, the United Nations voiced alarm Monday at the many journalists killed in the war raging in Gaza, a day after two Al Jazeera reporters were killed in an alleged Israeli strike on their car. "Very concerned by high death toll of media workers in Gaza," the UN rights office said on X, formerly Twitter, demanding that all such cases be "thoroughly, independently investigated to ensure strict compliance with international law, and violations prosecuted". Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli-Hamas war: Strike on Lebanon kills senior commander in elite Hezbollah unit

According to two defence officials, the deputy secretary of defence did not even realize that Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin had been hospitalized when she started taking on some of his duties on January 2. Until Thursday, three days after the secretary checked into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center due to complications from an elective surgery, senior leaders, including Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks, the Pentagon's second-in-command, were kept in the dark about Austin's actual location. As previously reported in news, Austin was hospitalized for three days before even the president learned of it.

US's Lloyd Austin in hospital: Pentagon delays key communication to White House by 3 days

Despite a population of just 23.5 million people, Taiwan’s election carries an outsized importance due to its disputed political status. While de facto independent since the 1940s, the island and its outlying territories are still claimed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) – something nearly all Taiwanese reject but fear saying publicly because of the risk of war.

China and Taiwan's complicated history | Why China matters in Taiwan

A fire tore through a Rohingya Camp in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar in southeast Bangladesh, leaving thousands homeless. The blaze broke out in the early hours of sunday, destroying around 800 shelters. Nearly seven thousand people have been left homeless.

Bangladesh: Over 7,000 refugees homeless after camp fire, no casualities reported | WION

Latest in Russia-Ukraine war: Russian shelling in southern Ukraine kills 2, several injured. Ukrainian Air Force shoots down 21 drones. Watch the video to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: 2 killed several injured in Russia shelling of Kherson

In boost to Nawaz and Tareen, Supreme Court ends lifetime disqualification SC issues ruling with 6-1 majority; disqualification under Article 62(1)(f) capped at 5 years; Justice Afridi differs with fellow judges

Pakistan Supreme Court quashes ruling on lifetime disqualification for lawmakers

Russia-Ukraine war: Japan to provide $37 million to NATO fund for anti-dron equipment | WION

The US lawmakers on Sunday (Jan 7) reached a $1.4&nbsp;trillion deal over the total amount of spending for the rest of 2024 to avoid a partial government shutdown.&nbsp;

Both Republican and Democrat leaders at Capitol Hill agreed to the budget figure which includes $886 billion for defence and more than $704 billion for non-defence spending.&nbsp;

The signing of the deal was announced jointly by&nbsp;Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate majority leader, and Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House.&nbsp;

“While these final spending levels will not satisfy everyone, and they do not cut as much spending as many of us would like," said Johnson in a letter to his colleagues.&nbsp;

"This deal does provide us a path to: 1) move the process forward; 2) reprioritise funding within the topline towards conservative objectives, instead of last year’s Schumer-Pelosi omnibus; and 3) fight for the important policy riders included in our House FY24 bills,” he added.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden welcomed the deal, stating that the funding framework "moves&nbsp;us one step closer to preventing a needless government shutdown" whilst adding that it protects important national priorities.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-could-face-its-fourth-partial-government-shutdown-in-a-decade-641071">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade</a>

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<h2>Section of Republicans unhappy</h2>

Despite reaching the agreement on overall amount of spending, a section of Republicans are unhappy with the deal.&nbsp;The House Freedom Caucus, a conservative Republican group called the agreement a "total failure".&nbsp;

"Sad to say but the spending epidemic in Washington continues with both parties being culpable," said Andy Biggs, the former chief of the group.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-likely-to-happen-if-us-government-shutdown-on-october-1-639264">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | What is likely to happen if US government shuts dow</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-likely-to-happen-if-us-government-shutdown-on-october-1-639264">n</a>?

The agreement comes a little less than two weeks before the first budget deadline that was set to elapse on January 19. This particular deadline deals with four appropriations areas that include:&nbsp;Agriculture, Rural Development, and the Food and Drug Administration; Energy and Water Development; Military Construction and Veterans Affairs; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development.

The second midnight deadline, set to expire on February 2 focuses on the remaining eight&nbsp;appropriations areas that may lose funding if the bipartisan agreement is not reached.

Missing the first deadline would have meant payment delays to federal employees and severe disruption to many government services deemed non-essential.

In October last year, Congress secured a short-term deal to avoid a federal shutdown temporarily which was signed into a law by President Joe Biden, minutes before the deadline.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The US lawmakers on Sunday (Jan 7) reached a $1.4 trillion deal over the total amount of spending for the rest of 2024 to avoid a partial government shutdown. Both Republican and Democrat leaders at Capitol Hill agreed to the budget figure which includes $886 billion for defence and more than $704 billion for non-defence spending.

The US lawmakers on Sunday (Jan 7) reached a $1.4 trillion deal over the total amount of spending for the rest of 2024 to avoid a partial government shutdown. Both Republican and Democrat leaders at Capitol Hill agreed to the budget figure which includes $886 billion for defence and more than $704 billion for non-defence spending. The signing of the deal was announced jointly by Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate majority leader, and Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House. “While these final spending levels will not satisfy everyone, and they do not cut as much spending as many of us would like," said Johnson in a letter to his colleagues. "This deal does provide us a path to: 1) move the process forward; 2) reprioritise funding within the topline towards conservative objectives, instead of last year’s Schumer-Pelosi omnibus; and 3) fight for the important policy riders included in our House FY24 bills,” he added. US President Joe Biden welcomed the deal, stating that the funding framework "moves us one step closer to preventing a needless government shutdown" whilst adding that it protects important national priorities. Watch | Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade × Section of Republicans unhappy Despite reaching the agreement on overall amount of spending, a section of Republicans are unhappy with the deal. The House Freedom Caucus, a conservative Republican group called the agreement a "total failure". "Sad to say but the spending epidemic in Washington continues with both parties being culpable," said Andy Biggs, the former chief of the group. Also read | Explained | What is likely to happen if US government shuts down? The agreement comes a little less than two weeks before the first budget deadline that was set to elapse on January 19. This particular deadline deals with four appropriations areas that include: Agriculture, Rural Development, and the Food and Drug Administration; Energy and Water Development; Military Construction and Veterans Affairs; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. The second midnight deadline, set to expire on February 2 focuses on the remaining eight appropriations areas that may lose funding if the bipartisan agreement is not reached. Missing the first deadline would have meant payment delays to federal employees and severe disruption to many government services deemed non-essential. In October last year, Congress secured a short-term deal to avoid a federal shutdown temporarily which was signed into a law by President Joe Biden, minutes before the deadline. (With inputs from agencies)

US lawmakers reach $1.4tn deal to avoid partial government shutdown

Pope Francis on Monday (January 8) called for a global ban on parenting via surrogacy, which is an arrangement in which a woman agrees to carry and give birth to a child on behalf of another person or couple. The woman is known as the surrogate and the other party is called the intended parent/s.&nbsp;

Pope called the practice of surrogacy "deplorable" and a grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child.&nbsp;

Critics believe that his remarks will likely antagonise pro-LGBT+ groups since surrogacy is often used by gay or lesbian partners who want to have children.&nbsp;

This controversial remark comes after the Pope's landmark decision to allow priests to bless same-sex couples.&nbsp;

"I deem deplorable the practice of so-called surrogate motherhood, which represents a grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child, based on the exploitation of situations of the mother's material needs," he said.&nbsp;

"Consequently, I express my hope for an effort by the international community to prohibit this practice universally," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/75-of-gym-goers-report-enhanced-mental-health-benefits-survey-finds-677854">75% of gym-goers report enhanced mental health benefits, survey finds</a>&nbsp;

The 87-year-old made his comments in a 45-minute address to Vatican-accredited diplomats. He slammed that 2024 had dawned at a time in which peace is "increasingly threatened, weakened and in some part lost" in his foreign policy address to ambassadors accredited to the Holy See.&nbsp;

Pope mentioned the ongoing wars — Russia-Ukraine war and Israel-Hamas war — and also migration, climate crises and the production of nuclear and conventional weapons.&nbsp;

He weighed in on the ills afflicting humanity and the increasing violation of international humanitarian law that allows them.&nbsp;

He also listed smaller-scale issues that he said were threats to peace and human dignity, including surrogacy. He said the life of the unborn child must be protected and not "suppressed or turned into an object of trafficking".&nbsp;

He said, "I consider despicable the practice of so-called surrogate motherhood, which represents a grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child, based on the exploitation of situations of the mother’s material needs."&nbsp;

He said there must be a global ban on surrogacy and said that a child is a gift and "never the basis of a commercial contract". He asked everyone "to prohibit this practice universally".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-billionaire-accuses-sothebys-of-art-fraud-in-high-stakes-legal-battle-677899">Russian billionaire accuses Sotheby's of art fraud in high-stakes legal battle</a>

<h2>Stats related to surrogacy</h2>

The practice of surrogacy is illegal in many countries around the world, as well as in some US states due to ethical concerns. The practice has also been criticised because of the potential for a "poverty bias" against women who become surrogate mothers due to financial need.&nbsp;

But interest continues to grow as more women opt to postpone pregnancy until later in life when fertility wanes, and as more same-sex couples look for ways to start families when they can't conceive on their own.&nbsp;

In Italy, the country that surrounds the Vatican, surrogacy is illegal, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's right-wing coalition ruling is pushing through parliament a law that would extend the existing ban to punish couples who go abroad to carry out the procedure.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Pope Francis on Monday (January 8) called for a global ban on parenting via surrogacy, which is an arrangement in which a woman agrees to carry and give birth to a child on behalf of another person or couple.

Pope Francis on Monday (January 8) called for a global ban on parenting via surrogacy, which is an arrangement in which a woman agrees to carry and give birth to a child on behalf of another person or couple. The woman is known as the surrogate and the other party is called the intended parent/s. Pope called the practice of surrogacy "deplorable" and a grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child. Critics believe that his remarks will likely antagonise pro-LGBT+ groups since surrogacy is often used by gay or lesbian partners who want to have children. This controversial remark comes after the Pope's landmark decision to allow priests to bless same-sex couples. "I deem deplorable the practice of so-called surrogate motherhood, which represents a grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child, based on the exploitation of situations of the mother's material needs," he said. "Consequently, I express my hope for an effort by the international community to prohibit this practice universally," he added. Also read: 75% of gym-goers report enhanced mental health benefits, survey finds The 87-year-old made his comments in a 45-minute address to Vatican-accredited diplomats. He slammed that 2024 had dawned at a time in which peace is "increasingly threatened, weakened and in some part lost" in his foreign policy address to ambassadors accredited to the Holy See. Pope mentioned the ongoing wars — Russia-Ukraine war and Israel-Hamas war — and also migration, climate crises and the production of nuclear and conventional weapons. He weighed in on the ills afflicting humanity and the increasing violation of international humanitarian law that allows them. He also listed smaller-scale issues that he said were threats to peace and human dignity, including surrogacy. He said the life of the unborn child must be protected and not "suppressed or turned into an object of trafficking". He said, "I consider despicable the practice of so-called surrogate motherhood, which represents a grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child, based on the exploitation of situations of the mother’s material needs." He said there must be a global ban on surrogacy and said that a child is a gift and "never the basis of a commercial contract". He asked everyone "to prohibit this practice universally". Also read: Russian billionaire accuses Sotheby's of art fraud in high-stakes legal battle Stats related to surrogacy The practice of surrogacy is illegal in many countries around the world, as well as in some US states due to ethical concerns. The practice has also been criticised because of the potential for a "poverty bias" against women who become surrogate mothers due to financial need. But interest continues to grow as more women opt to postpone pregnancy until later in life when fertility wanes, and as more same-sex couples look for ways to start families when they can't conceive on their own. In Italy, the country that surrounds the Vatican, surrogacy is illegal, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's right-wing coalition ruling is pushing through parliament a law that would extend the existing ban to punish couples who go abroad to carry out the procedure. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope calls for universal ban on ‘despicable’ practice of surrogate motherhood

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian armed forces shell hospital in Donetsk

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a warning on Sunday (Jan 7) that the war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip may "metastasise" and endanger regional stability.

"This is a moment of profound tension in the region. This is a conflict that could easily metastasise, causing even more insecurity and even more suffering," Blinken told a news conference in Qatar during a regional tour aimed at de-escalating the conflict.

He further denounced the "tragedy" of civilian casualties and alerted that the upsurge in violence imperilled the wider region.

The top US diplomat said that Israel must make more efforts towards safeguarding civilians in Gaza, further adding that Palestinians displaced by the ongoing war must "return home".

"Palestinian civilians must be able to return home as soon as conditions allow. They cannot, they must not be pressed to leave Gaza," Blinken said on the latest leg of his fourth Middle East tour since the war broke out.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beiruts-international-airport-screens-come-under-cyberattack-display-anti-hezbollah-messages-677582">Beirut’s international airport screens come under cyberattack, display anti-Hezbollah messages</a>

<h2>Death of journalists in Gaza 'unimaginable tragedy'</h2>

During the press briefing, Blinken said that the death of two journalists in a strike in Gaza was an "unimaginable tragedy".

"This is an unimaginable tragedy. And that's also been the case for... far too many innocent Palestinian men, women and children," he said.

The health ministry in the Gaza Strip said on Sunday (Jan 7) that two journalists were killed in an Israeli air strike in the war-torn region.

According to the health ministry and medics, Mustafa Thuria, a video stringer for AFP news agency, and Hamza Wael Dahdouh, a journalist with Al Jazeera television network, were killed while they were travelling in a car. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Hamza's father Wael al-Dahdouh is Al Jazeera's bureau chief in the Gaza Strip and was also recently wounded in a strike, AFP reported. He was wounded after his wife and two children were killed by a separate Israeli strike in the initial weeks of the war which started on Oct 7 last year. Thuria, meanwhile, joined AFP in 2019.

In a statement, Hamas' media office condemned the killings. "We condemn this heinous crime committed by the Israeli occupation army in a bid to intimidate and prevent media coverage," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a warning on Sunday (Jan 7) that the war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip may "metastasise" and endanger regional stability.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a warning on Sunday (Jan 7) that the war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip may "metastasise" and endanger regional stability. "This is a moment of profound tension in the region. This is a conflict that could easily metastasise, causing even more insecurity and even more suffering," Blinken told a news conference in Qatar during a regional tour aimed at de-escalating the conflict. He further denounced the "tragedy" of civilian casualties and alerted that the upsurge in violence imperilled the wider region. The top US diplomat said that Israel must make more efforts towards safeguarding civilians in Gaza, further adding that Palestinians displaced by the ongoing war must "return home". "Palestinian civilians must be able to return home as soon as conditions allow. They cannot, they must not be pressed to leave Gaza," Blinken said on the latest leg of his fourth Middle East tour since the war broke out. Also read: Beirut’s international airport screens come under cyberattack, display anti-Hezbollah messages Death of journalists in Gaza 'unimaginable tragedy' During the press briefing, Blinken said that the death of two journalists in a strike in Gaza was an "unimaginable tragedy". "This is an unimaginable tragedy. And that's also been the case for... far too many innocent Palestinian men, women and children," he said. The health ministry in the Gaza Strip said on Sunday (Jan 7) that two journalists were killed in an Israeli air strike in the war-torn region. According to the health ministry and medics, Mustafa Thuria, a video stringer for AFP news agency, and Hamza Wael Dahdouh, a journalist with Al Jazeera television network, were killed while they were travelling in a car. Hamza's father Wael al-Dahdouh is Al Jazeera's bureau chief in the Gaza Strip and was also recently wounded in a strike, AFP reported. He was wounded after his wife and two children were killed by a separate Israeli strike in the initial weeks of the war which started on Oct 7 last year. Thuria, meanwhile, joined AFP in 2019. In a statement, Hamas' media office condemned the killings. "We condemn this heinous crime committed by the Israeli occupation army in a bid to intimidate and prevent media coverage," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel vs Hamas: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warns war could 'metastasise' to wider region

Following the winding up of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's wife Akshata Murthy's start-up investment firm Catamaran Ventures in December last year, the country's main opposition party has raised questions about the impact of the closure on other companies.

UK: Labour scrutiny over closure of firm owned by PM Sunak's wife

The Maldives government has suspended three deputy ministers for disparaging India's prime minister, an official said on Sunday, during a dip in ties with its powerful neighbour.

Maldives sacks 3 ministers for insulting comments on PM Modi | India-Maldives comments row

Last Friday's incident when a side cabin panel broke away in Alaska Airline Boeing 737 Max aircraft midair. The airline has now grounded all flights pending an inquiry by the US Federal Aviation Administration at the door plug that detached from the Alaska Airlines plane became a focus of a federal investigation.

FAA orders temporary grounding of 171 Boeing airplanes worldwide

The passengers, who were on the Alaska Airlines flight which was forced to make an emergency landing when its emergency exit door fell off mid-air, said that the experience was loud and terrifying.&nbsp;

While speaking to NBC News, Evan Granger, who was seated in exit row seat 16F, said that he heard a “loud boom” followed by “a gust of wind coming in” at around 20 minutes into the flight on Friday (Jan 5). He added that both of his ears became plugged.

“I didn’t want to look back to see what was happening,” said Granger, adding, “My focus in that moment was just breathe into the oxygen mask and trust that the flight crew will do everything they can to keep us safe.”&nbsp;

Granger further accepted that “there are so many things that had to go right in order for all of us to have survived,” adding that he is “very grateful” that the plane was able to land safely.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alaska-airlines-mid-air-blowout-planes-door-lost-in-dramatic-accident-found-677705">Schoolteacher finds door plug that blew off Alaska Airlines plane in mid-air drama in his backyard</a>

Elizabeth Le, who is from Portland, Oregon, said that the flight had taken off from Portland around 20 minutes ago and was headed to Ontario, California on Friday (Jan 5) when she heard a loud sound.

“All of a sudden I heard like a big bang and I didn’t know exactly what was going on, but I look up and the oxygen masks were hanging from the ceiling,” said Le, while speaking to Southern California news outlet OC Hawk. “And then I look to my left and there’s this huge chunk, part of the airplane is like missing," she added.&nbsp;

<h2>Extremely loud wind rushed inside the plane: Passenger</h2>

Le said that as soon as the door fell, “extremely loud” wind rushed inside the plane, however, the passengers stayed in their seats and kept wearing their seatbelts.

“I couldn’t really think straight because of how loud the wind was. I just couldn’t believe my eyes. There’s a gaping hole. You could see the city and the stars and everything just outside of the window. It was crazy," she said.

Le added that no one was present on the window seat of the row which was directly next to where the plane's part fell off, however, a mom and son were sitting in the middle and aisle seats of that row.

Watch:&nbsp;US: Alaska airlines grounds all Boeing 737-9 planes after window blows out mid-air

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-alaska-airlines-grounds-all-boeing-737-9-planes-after-window-blows-out-mid-air-677319/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Speaking to OC Hawk, another passenger Jessica Montoya said that the plane had reached 10,000 feet when the door detached.

“We flew for another three or four minutes, and then we heard this pop and all the oxygen masks came down. I wasn’t afraid. I don’t know why. No one really screamed or anything," she said.

Montoya said she also spoke to someone who informed him that his shirt and phone were “sucked out” of the aircraft. “It was a trip from hell,” said Montoya.

(With inputs from agencies)

The passengers, who were on the Alaska Airlines flight which was forced to make an emergency landing when its emergency exit door fell off mid-air, said that the experience was loud and terrifying.

The passengers, who were on the Alaska Airlines flight which was forced to make an emergency landing when its emergency exit door fell off mid-air, said that the experience was loud and terrifying. While speaking to NBC News, Evan Granger, who was seated in exit row seat 16F, said that he heard a “loud boom” followed by “a gust of wind coming in” at around 20 minutes into the flight on Friday (Jan 5). He added that both of his ears became plugged. “I didn’t want to look back to see what was happening,” said Granger, adding, “My focus in that moment was just breathe into the oxygen mask and trust that the flight crew will do everything they can to keep us safe.” Granger further accepted that “there are so many things that had to go right in order for all of us to have survived,” adding that he is “very grateful” that the plane was able to land safely. Also read: Schoolteacher finds door plug that blew off Alaska Airlines plane in mid-air drama in his backyard Elizabeth Le, who is from Portland, Oregon, said that the flight had taken off from Portland around 20 minutes ago and was headed to Ontario, California on Friday (Jan 5) when she heard a loud sound. “All of a sudden I heard like a big bang and I didn’t know exactly what was going on, but I look up and the oxygen masks were hanging from the ceiling,” said Le, while speaking to Southern California news outlet OC Hawk. “And then I look to my left and there’s this huge chunk, part of the airplane is like missing," she added. Extremely loud wind rushed inside the plane: Passenger Le said that as soon as the door fell, “extremely loud” wind rushed inside the plane, however, the passengers stayed in their seats and kept wearing their seatbelts. “I couldn’t really think straight because of how loud the wind was. I just couldn’t believe my eyes. There’s a gaping hole. You could see the city and the stars and everything just outside of the window. It was crazy," she said. Le added that no one was present on the window seat of the row which was directly next to where the plane's part fell off, however, a mom and son were sitting in the middle and aisle seats of that row. Watch: US: Alaska airlines grounds all Boeing 737-9 planes after window blows out mid-air Speaking to OC Hawk, another passenger Jessica Montoya said that the plane had reached 10,000 feet when the door detached. “We flew for another three or four minutes, and then we heard this pop and all the oxygen masks came down. I wasn’t afraid. I don’t know why. No one really screamed or anything," she said. Montoya said she also spoke to someone who informed him that his shirt and phone were “sucked out” of the aircraft. “It was a trip from hell,” said Montoya. (With inputs from agencies)

A loud boom, gusts of wind: Alaska Airlines passengers recall the moment door of plane fell off

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