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White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles is leaving her position days after Republicans suffered major losses in the midterm elections. She will be replaced by Stephen Miller, a longtime aide to President Donald Trump who played a key role in shaping his hardline immigration agenda. The departure marks the first significant staff shake-up following the midterms. It comes after Trump expressed anger over the strategy that resulted in Republicans decisively losing their majorities in both the House and Senate, according to people familiar with the matter.&nbsp;However, Miller's elevation to the West Wing's top staff position suggests that Trump has no intention of fundamentally changing his governing approach. Miller has been one of the most influential and controversial figures behind the president's second-term policies. Trump announced that Wiles would move to his political operation, praising her work and saying she has done an outstanding job. According to two sources familiar with the matter, Wiles submitted her resignation on Thursday evening. Trump said the change would take effect on Monday.&nbsp;Trump initially appeared unconcerned about the results of Tuesday night's midterm elections. However, his anger reportedly grew as he watched coverage of the historic Republican losses, people familiar with his response said. His frustration has also spread throughout the West Wing, which has become increasingly divided into factions in recent days. According to one person familiar with the matter, Trump began expressing his dissatisfaction with his political team during a tense election night reception in the East Room. He blamed their strategy for the significant Republican&nbsp;losses. Wiles was among the people he held responsible, the source said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today is my last day as White House Chief of Staff. 

Serving President Trump in the White House has been the honor of a lifetime. I’m so proud to have been a part of what we’ve accomplished together from securing our border and cutting taxes to strengthening our economy and putting America First. 

More than anything, I’m grateful for the extraordinary people I’ve had the privilege of working alongside. While my role may be changing, my commitment to the President and the mission never will.&mdash; Susie Wiles (@SusieWiles47) <a href="https://x.com/SusieWiles47/status/2118780628258730072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Following the midterm defeat, several allies and associates urged Trump to make changes to his senior staff. They argued that the White House needed a different approach, according to a source familiar with the discussions. Miller, who currently serves as deputy chief of staff, has been the driving force behind several of Trump's most controversial policy priorities. Over the past year, he has expanded his responsibilities to cover broad areas of domestic policy and advocated for an expansive interpretation of executive power.&nbsp;Miller has been associated with Trump since his first presidential campaign, which began in 2015. In a statement posted on X, Wiles described her time working for Trump as “the honor of a lifetime” and said she was “proud to have been a part of what we’ve accomplished together.” “While my role may be changing, my commitment to the President and the mission never will,” she added.&nbsp;Over the past several days, Trump had asked allies whether they thought Miller would be an appropriate choice to replace Wiles, according to one person familiar with the conversations. He also considered Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton as a possible candidate, the source said. Before becoming the first woman to serve as White House chief of staff, Wiles managed Trump's 2024 presidential campaign. She recently announced that she had completed treatment for breast cancer.

During his first presidential term, Trump went through four chiefs of staff. Wiles remained in the position longer than any of her predecessors. Her approach involved avoiding fundamental changes to the way Trump performed his presidential duties or altering his priorities. Instead, she worked to use influential individuals within Trump's circle to help shape his governing agenda.&nbsp;Trump frequently referred to Wiles as his “ice maiden” because of her no-nonsense approach. As recently as last month, the president had insisted that she would continue in the position for the foreseeable future. “Susie is here and she’s gonna be here for a long time,” he said on October 16.

Donald Trump replaces White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles with Stephen Miller following major Republican losses in the US midterm elections

White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles is leaving her position days after Republicans suffered major losses in the midterm elections. She will be replaced by Stephen Miller, a longtime aide to President Donald Trump who played a key role in shaping his hardline immigration agenda. The departure marks the first significant staff shake-up following the midterms. It comes after Trump expressed anger over the strategy that resulted in Republicans decisively losing their majorities in both the House and Senate, according to people familiar with the matter. However, Miller's elevation to the West Wing's top staff position suggests that Trump has no intention of fundamentally changing his governing approach. Miller has been one of the most influential and controversial figures behind the president's second-term policies. Trump announced that Wiles would move to his political operation, praising her work and saying she has done an outstanding job. According to two sources familiar with the matter, Wiles submitted her resignation on Thursday evening. Trump said the change would take effect on Monday. Trump initially appeared unconcerned about the results of Tuesday night's midterm elections. However, his anger reportedly grew as he watched coverage of the historic Republican losses, people familiar with his response said. His frustration has also spread throughout the West Wing, which has become increasingly divided into factions in recent days. According to one person familiar with the matter, Trump began expressing his dissatisfaction with his political team during a tense election night reception in the East Room. He blamed their strategy for the significant Republican losses. Wiles was among the people he held responsible, the source said.

Susie Wiles is leaving as White House chief of staff after Republican midterm losses, with Donald Trump naming Stephen Miller as her replacement

Susie Wiles exits as White House Chief of Staff, Stephen Miller set to replace her after Republican midterm losses

A seven-year-old girl and an 18-year-old man were killed on Friday after a bus carrying schoolchildren crashed in eastern France when its driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. Three people were critically injured, while around 20 others sustained less serious injuries in the Friday morning accident near the village of Lent, Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot said.&nbsp;The 26-year-old driver, who is currently in police custody, told authorities that he must have ‘dozed off’, prosecutor Karine Malara said. "When he woke up, he found himself on the other side of the road and collided with several trees lining the roadside, before coming to a halt in the ravine," she added. The bus was travelling from Lyon to Bourg-en-Bresse with 43 passengers on board, including 15 minors who were heading to school, prosecutors said.&nbsp;Regional weekly La Voix de l'Ain published a photograph showing the white-and-blue bus lying in a ditch, with its front end severely damaged. A 17-year-old survivor described the scene inside the bus, saying it was covered with shattered glass and blood. Tree branches had entered the vehicle, while broken mobile phones were scattered across the floor. The bus had passed through Lent shortly before the driver suddenly changed direction. "The driver made a very sharp turn of the wheel," the student told reporters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/gravitas/top-pentagon-planner-faces-court-martial-over-alleged-iran-ukraine-war-leaks-gravitas-1793989249268">Top Pentagon planner faces court-martial over alleged Iran, Ukraine war leaks | GRAVITAS</a>&nbsp;She said they had been travelling in the right-hand lane before the bus moved into the left-hand lane. “Then we went straight into a ditch.” "All the windows burst open," she said. “We all got out through the windows or through the middle of the bus because it had opened up.” The teenager added that she and other survivors tried to help as many people as possible following the crash.&nbsp;An investigation into homicide by vehicle has been opened. The driver, who had to be freed from the wreckage, underwent drug screening tests. According to Tabarot, the initial results appear to be negative. Prosecutors said the driver was hospitalised with leg injuries. Jean-Francois Debat, mayor of Bourg-en-Bresse, described the road as well maintained. A victim support group said many people were in shock. Those affected were receiving assistance at the town hall, where a psychological support unit had been established.&nbsp;Accidents involving public transport are relatively uncommon in France. The country's deadliest road disaster occurred in August 1982, when a motorway pile-up caused several vehicles to catch fire, including a coach carrying children to a summer camp. The tragedy claimed 53 lives in total, including 46 children.

Two people, including a seven-year-old girl, were killed in a school bus crash in eastern France after the driver reportedly fell asleep

A seven-year-old girl and an 18-year-old man were killed on Friday after a bus carrying schoolchildren crashed in eastern France when its driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. Three people were critically injured, while around 20 others sustained less serious injuries in the Friday morning accident near the village of Lent, Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot said. The 26-year-old driver, who is currently in police custody, told authorities that he must have ‘dozed off’, prosecutor Karine Malara said. "When he woke up, he found himself on the other side of the road and collided with several trees lining the roadside, before coming to a halt in the ravine," she added. The bus was travelling from Lyon to Bourg-en-Bresse with 43 passengers on board, including 15 minors who were heading to school, prosecutors said. Regional weekly La Voix de l'Ain published a photograph showing the white-and-blue bus lying in a ditch, with its front end severely damaged. A 17-year-old survivor described the scene inside the bus, saying it was covered with shattered glass and blood. Tree branches had entered the vehicle, while broken mobile phones were scattered across the floor. The bus had passed through Lent shortly before the driver suddenly changed direction. "The driver made a very sharp turn of the wheel," the student told reporters. Also Read: Top Pentagon planner faces court-martial over alleged Iran, Ukraine war leaks | GRAVITAS She said they had been travelling in the right-hand lane before the bus moved into the left-hand lane. “Then we went straight into a ditch.” "All the windows burst open," she said. “We all got out through the windows or through the middle of the bus because it had opened up.” The teenager added that she and other survivors tried to help as many people as possible following the crash. An investigation into homicide by vehicle has been opened. The driver, who had to be freed from the wreckage, underwent drug screening tests. According to Tabarot, the initial results appear to be negative. Prosecutors said the driver was hospitalised with leg injuries. Jean-Francois Debat, mayor of Bourg-en-Bresse, described the road as well maintained. A victim support group said many people were in shock. Those affected were receiving assistance at the town hall, where a psychological support unit had been established. Accidents involving public transport are relatively uncommon in France. The country's deadliest road disaster occurred in August 1982, when a motorway pile-up caused several vehicles to catch fire, including a coach carrying children to a summer camp. The tragedy claimed 53 lives in total, including 46 children.

A school bus crash in eastern France killed a seven-year-old girl and an 18-year-old man, leaving three critically injured and around 20 hurt

France school bus crash: Seven-year-old among two killed, several injured after driver 'dozes off'

A top US military strategist could face a court-martial over allegations of leaking classified information related to the Iran and Ukraine wars.&nbsp;Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia, who was recently removed from his position by US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, is reportedly under investigation for allegedly sharing sensitive military information with media outlets.&nbsp;Sylvia, a recipient of multiple military honours, including the Distinguished Service Medal, served as Director for Strategy, Plans and Policy at the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 2025.But what led to his removal?&nbsp;According to reports, Sylvia allegedly failed four polygraph tests and admitted to sharing classified information with two media organisations since last year.&nbsp;The leaked information reportedly included details about US ammunition stockpiles and high-level inter-agency discussions concerning Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the allegations do not end there.&nbsp;Investigators are also reportedly examining a Signal message thread that Sylvia allegedly deleted after communicating with a journalist about US assistance to Ukraine.He also reportedly came under scrutiny for allegedly discussing Hegseth's controversial removal of several senior military officers.&nbsp;The allegations could potentially constitute violations of America's Uniform Code of Military Justice, including conduct unbecoming of an officer.&nbsp;Following news of Sylvia's removal, the Pentagon issued a statement without directly naming him, reiterating its zero-tolerance policy towards the unauthorised disclosure of classified information.A Pentagon spokesperson said: "Anyone who compromises sensitive national security information puts the lives of our warriors at risk, and undermines every military operation that keeps our country safe."&nbsp;The department also confirmed that the matter had been referred to the US Department of Justice for further legal action.&nbsp;The developments come amid President Donald Trump's increasingly tough stance on classified information leaks.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Hegseth's tenure as Secretary of War has been marked by a sweeping shake-up of America's military leadership.&nbsp;Since he took office, at least 26 generals and admirals have reportedly resigned or been removed from their positions.&nbsp;Hegseth has defended the leadership purge, arguing that it is necessary to strengthen accountability within the armed forces.&nbsp;The administration has also reportedly reduced the number of generals, admirals and senior officers by around 20 per cent.&nbsp;With a possible court-martial now looming over one of the Pentagon's senior strategists, questions are mounting over classified intelligence, military accountability and the growing upheaval within America's top military leadership.

Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia, who was recently removed from his position by US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, is reportedly under investigation for allegedly sharing sensitive military information with media outlets.

A top US military strategist could face a court-martial over allegations of leaking classified information related to the Iran and Ukraine wars. Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia, who was recently removed from his position by US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, is reportedly under investigation for allegedly sharing sensitive military information with media outlets. Sylvia, a recipient of multiple military honours, including the Distinguished Service Medal, served as Director for Strategy, Plans and Policy at the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 2025. But what led to his removal? According to reports, Sylvia allegedly failed four polygraph tests and admitted to sharing classified information with two media organisations since last year. The leaked information reportedly included details about US ammunition stockpiles and high-level inter-agency discussions concerning Iran. However, the allegations do not end there. Investigators are also reportedly examining a Signal message thread that Sylvia allegedly deleted after communicating with a journalist about US assistance to Ukraine. He also reportedly came under scrutiny for allegedly discussing Hegseth's controversial removal of several senior military officers. The allegations could potentially constitute violations of America's Uniform Code of Military Justice, including conduct unbecoming of an officer. Following news of Sylvia's removal, the Pentagon issued a statement without directly naming him, reiterating its zero-tolerance policy towards the unauthorised disclosure of classified information. A Pentagon spokesperson said: "Anyone who compromises sensitive national security information puts the lives of our warriors at risk, and undermines every military operation that keeps our country safe." The department also confirmed that the matter had been referred to the US Department of Justice for further legal action. The developments come amid President Donald Trump's increasingly tough stance on classified information leaks. Meanwhile, Hegseth's tenure as Secretary of War has been marked by a sweeping shake-up of America's military leadership. Since he took office, at least 26 generals and admirals have reportedly resigned or been removed from their positions. Hegseth has defended the leadership purge, arguing that it is necessary to strengthen accountability within the armed forces. The administration has also reportedly reduced the number of generals, admirals and senior officers by around 20 per cent. With a possible court-martial now looming over one of the Pentagon's senior strategists, questions are mounting over classified intelligence, military accountability and the growing upheaval within America's top military leadership.

Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia, who was recently removed from his position by US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, is reportedly under investigation for allegedly sharing sensitive military information with media outlets.

A secret arms deal. A defiant Tehran. And a weakened Donald Trump facing an increasingly complicated war. As tensions between Washington and Tehran threaten to spiral out of control, Russia's military partnership with Iran is once again coming under the spotlight.&nbsp;And this time, the revelations could have serious implications for the United States. According to reports, Moscow agreed to supply Iran with 90 launchers for its LMUR missile system — a precision-guided missile designed to strike moving targets.&nbsp;The weapon has been deployed by Russian forces in the Ukraine war since 2022. The reported delivery schedule stretched from late 2024 to December 2025. But this is not an isolated military transaction. It is part of a much wider defence partnership between Moscow and Tehran.Iran has supplied Russia with Shahed kamikaze drones, extensively used in attacks on Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;And earlier reports suggested that Moscow was also secretly assisting Tehran in developing supersonic cruise missiles capable of threatening American warships in West Asia.&nbsp;These missiles are particularly dangerous because of their ability to fly at low altitudes and reach speeds of up to 2,200 kilometres per hour, making interception significantly more challenging.&nbsp;Yet, despite these growing concerns, Donald Trump has repeatedly downplayed Russia's military support for Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;Why? Because Washington has been trying to keep Moscow engaged in negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Trump has also faced pressure over rising energy prices and the need to secure additional supplies.

Last month, the U.S. president claimed that Russia was doing very little to assist Tehran, signalling that he did not want to alienate Vladimir Putin. But developments on the ground suggest that Moscow's relationship with Iran may be far more significant than Washington is willing to acknowledge.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran's Supreme National Security Council chief, Mohsen Rezaei, met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Rezaei reportedly delivered a message from Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, to the Russian president.&nbsp;Putin, in turn, reportedly expressed his willingness to help bring the conflict to an end. But Tehran is making one thing abundantly clear. It is not prepared to surrender its negotiating position.&nbsp;Iran has insisted that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed and negotiations will not resume until Washington meets its seven conditions.Although Tehran has not publicly disclosed the complete list, its earlier demands have included:<ul><li>An end to hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon.</li><li>An end to the naval blockade.</li><li>The lifting of sanctions.</li><li>The release of frozen Iranian assets.</li><li>War reparations.</li></ul>In other words, Iran is refusing to negotiate under pressure. And Donald Trump now faces a crucial decision. Following a meeting with his national security team, the U.S. president indicated that he would soon decide whether to resume an all-out war against Iran.&nbsp;He also issued another chilling warning to Tehran. This is not the first time Trump has resorted to extraordinary threats.&nbsp;At the height of the conflict on April 7, he warned that an entire civilisation could die that night.The threat was intended to force Iran into submission. But Trump subsequently stepped back, announcing a two-week ceasefire, subject to Iran agreeing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Now, a new diplomatic opening may be emerging. According to Reuters, Iran has sent a nuclear proposal to the United States through Qatar. However, Tehran wants Washington to meet its seven demands before nuclear negotiations can begin. When asked about the future of Iran's nuclear programme, Trump offered his response.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Qatar is stepping up its diplomatic efforts to prevent another escalation.The Emir of Qatar held a telephone conversation with Trump, warning against further escalation and discussing mediation efforts aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement.&nbsp;Qatari mediators are reportedly pushing for a two-day confidence-building arrangement.&nbsp;Under the proposed framework, the United States would lift its naval blockade and release some frozen Iranian assets on the first day.&nbsp;On the second day, the Strait of Hormuz would reopen. Nuclear negotiations would then resume, with particular focus on Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium.&nbsp;Diplomatic activity has also intensified across West Asia.Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a series of telephone conversations with counterparts from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, the UAE, Oman and Egypt.&nbsp;The flurry of calls underscores the growing regional urgency to prevent the conflict from escalating into a much wider confrontation.&nbsp;But the political crisis facing Trump is not limited to Iran. The White House has also been forced to dismiss speculation that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth could leave their positions following the administration's midterm setback.&nbsp;Hegseth, meanwhile, is facing the possibility of impeachment. Yet Trump has once again thrown his weight behind his defence chief.&nbsp;The president highlighted what he described as Hegseth's achievements, including the reported capture of Venezuela's deposed president, Nicolas Maduro, and the military campaign against Iran. Hegseth, for his part, has vowed to continue fighting.&nbsp;So, the question now is whether Trump can afford another military escalation while Russia continues to strengthen its strategic relationship with Iran.&nbsp;Moscow appears determined to preserve its influence in Tehran. Iran is refusing to back down.And Washington is running out of easy options.&nbsp;With the Strait of Hormuz, the nuclear question and Russia's military involvement all hanging in the balance, the next move could reshape the geopolitical landscape of West Asia.&nbsp;

Moscow has agreed to supply Iran with 90 launchers for its LMUR missile system — a precision-guided missile designed to strike moving targets.

A secret arms deal. A defiant Tehran. And a weakened Donald Trump facing an increasingly complicated war. As tensions between Washington and Tehran threaten to spiral out of control, Russia's military partnership with Iran is once again coming under the spotlight. And this time, the revelations could have serious implications for the United States. According to reports, Moscow agreed to supply Iran with 90 launchers for its LMUR missile system — a precision-guided missile designed to strike moving targets. The weapon has been deployed by Russian forces in the Ukraine war since 2022. The reported delivery schedule stretched from late 2024 to December 2025. But this is not an isolated military transaction. It is part of a much wider defence partnership between Moscow and Tehran. Iran has supplied Russia with Shahed kamikaze drones, extensively used in attacks on Ukrainian cities. And earlier reports suggested that Moscow was also secretly assisting Tehran in developing supersonic cruise missiles capable of threatening American warships in West Asia. These missiles are particularly dangerous because of their ability to fly at low altitudes and reach speeds of up to 2,200 kilometres per hour, making interception significantly more challenging. Yet, despite these growing concerns, Donald Trump has repeatedly downplayed Russia's military support for Iran. Why? Because Washington has been trying to keep Moscow engaged in negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Trump has also faced pressure over rising energy prices and the need to secure additional supplies.

Moscow has agreed to supply Iran with 90 launchers for its LMUR missile system — a precision-guided missile designed to strike moving targets.

Russia inks secret arms deal with Iran: Tehran defies weakened Trump's threats | GRAVITAS

New Delhi: The European Commission and India have reached agreement on India’s participation in Horizon Europe, the European Union’s main research and innovation funding programme. The deal, announced after months of talks, will allow Indian researchers, businesses and research organisations to take part in the programme on the same terms as their European counterparts in selected areas. Once formal procedures are completed on both sides, India is expected to join from January 2027. Horizon Europe has a budget of €93.5 billion for the period 2021–2027. It supports collaborative projects that address major challenges such as climate change, health, digital technologies, energy and industrial competitiveness. India’s association will cover Pillar II of the programme, which funds large, multi-country projects in these fields. Indian organisations will be able to receive funding directly from the EU and lead such projects.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-holds-naval-drills-with-myanmar-greece-us-attends-malabar-exercises-in-japan-1793981016313">India holds naval drills with Myanmar, Greece, US; attends Malabar exercises in Japan</a> Association is the closest form of partnership the EU offers non-member countries. Associated countries contribute financially to the programme in return for equal access in the areas covered by the agreement. For European researchers and companies, the arrangement is expected to create more opportunities to work with Indian partners on shared problems. The agreement builds on long-standing scientific cooperation between the two sides. The EU and India signed a science and technology agreement in 2001, which has been extended until 2030. Research and innovation also feature in the broader EU–India strategic agenda adopted earlier this year. Talks on association began with exploratory discussions in February 2026, followed by formal negotiations in July. Officials say the successful conclusion of those talks now clears the way for the agreement to be signed. Horizon Europe already includes 23 non-EU countries, among them the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Israel, Ukraine and several Western Balkan and Eastern Partnership states. Negotiations with Australia have also concluded, and an agreement is expected to be signed soon.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-atal-tinkering-labs-reach-sri-lanka-as-first-facility-opens-in-the-country-1793815045114">India’s 'Atal' Tinkering Labs reach Sri Lanka as first facility opens in the country</a> The programme aims to strengthen scientific excellence, support the green and digital transitions, and improve the EU’s competitiveness. International cooperation is a core part of its design, bringing together expertise and resources from inside and outside the EU. For India, participation is seen as a chance to expand collaboration with European research institutions and companies, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, climate science and health. For the EU, the arrangement deepens ties with one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing research communities.

India is set to join the EU's €93.5 billion Horizon Europe research programme from January 2027, following an agreement with the European Commission. The deal will give Indian researchers and organisations access to EU funding and opportunities to lead collaborative projects.

New Delhi: The European Commission and India have reached agreement on India’s participation in Horizon Europe, the European Union’s main research and innovation funding programme. The deal, announced after months of talks, will allow Indian researchers, businesses and research organisations to take part in the programme on the same terms as their European counterparts in selected areas. Once formal procedures are completed on both sides, India is expected to join from January 2027. Horizon Europe has a budget of €93.5 billion for the period 2021–2027. It supports collaborative projects that address major challenges such as climate change, health, digital technologies, energy and industrial competitiveness. India’s association will cover Pillar II of the programme, which funds large, multi-country projects in these fields. Indian organisations will be able to receive funding directly from the EU and lead such projects. Also read | India holds naval drills with Myanmar, Greece, US; attends Malabar exercises in Japan Association is the closest form of partnership the EU offers non-member countries. Associated countries contribute financially to the programme in return for equal access in the areas covered by the agreement. For European researchers and companies, the arrangement is expected to create more opportunities to work with Indian partners on shared problems. The agreement builds on long-standing scientific cooperation between the two sides. The EU and India signed a science and technology agreement in 2001, which has been extended until 2030. Research and innovation also feature in the broader EU–India strategic agenda adopted earlier this year. Talks on association began with exploratory discussions in February 2026, followed by formal negotiations in July. Officials say the successful conclusion of those talks now clears the way for the agreement to be signed. Horizon Europe already includes 23 non-EU countries, among them the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Israel, Ukraine and several Western Balkan and Eastern Partnership states. Negotiations with Australia have also concluded, and an agreement is expected to be signed soon. Also read | India’s 'Atal' Tinkering Labs reach Sri Lanka as first facility opens in the country The programme aims to strengthen scientific excellence, support the green and digital transitions, and improve the EU’s competitiveness. International cooperation is a core part of its design, bringing together expertise and resources from inside and outside the EU. For India, participation is seen as a chance to expand collaboration with European research institutions and companies, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, climate science and health. For the EU, the arrangement deepens ties with one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing research communities.

India is set to join the EU's €93.5 billion Horizon Europe research programme from January 2027, following an agreement with the European Commission. The deal will give Indian researchers and organisations access to EU funding and opportunities to lead collaborative projects.

EU and India agree to closer research ties under Horizon Europe

Thomas Markle, father of the estranged Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle was arrested on Friday (Nov 6) for ​possessing child pornography. According to the US Justice Department Markle, ‌82, was held outside Tampa, Florida and was charged with one count of possession of child pornography.&nbsp;“Mr. Markle is accused of possessing child sexual abuse material, ⁠including photographs depicting himself with minor girls,” First Assistant United States ​Attorney Bill Essayli said and added, “These allegations are extremely serious, and we will prosecute ​Mr. Markle to the fullest extent of federal law.”&nbsp;The arrest comes after Thomas Markle Jr, reportedly discovered boxes containing hundreds of images at his father's former home in Cebu City, in the Philippines and reported it to the police. Soon an investigation was launched into the case.&nbsp;Philippine authorities have recovered around 7,500 photographs and one video depicting underage children from electronic devices linked to the investigation, reported euronews.Some of the children appeared to be as young as 10 or 11, according to Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla.&nbsp;However, it is yet to be established as to who owned, produced or distributed the material.&nbsp;Markle has denied the accusations, as untrue and "sick lies", according to Daily Mail.Meghan Markle, ⁠an ​American who married &nbsp;Prince Harry King Charles' younger son ​in 2018, has said she was "deeply distressed" over the allegations.

The arrest comes after Thomas Markle Jr, reportedly discovered boxes containing hundreds of images at his father's former home in Cebu City, in the Philippines and reported to the police.

Thomas Markle, father of the estranged Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle was arrested on Friday (Nov 6) for possessing child pornography. According to the US Justice Department Markle, ‌82, was held outside Tampa, Florida and was charged with one count of possession of child pornography. “Mr. Markle is accused of possessing child sexual abuse material, ⁠including photographs depicting himself with minor girls,” First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli said and added, “These allegations are extremely serious, and we will prosecute Mr. Markle to the fullest extent of federal law.” The arrest comes after Thomas Markle Jr, reportedly discovered boxes containing hundreds of images at his father's former home in Cebu City, in the Philippines and reported it to the police. Soon an investigation was launched into the case. Philippine authorities have recovered around 7,500 photographs and one video depicting underage children from electronic devices linked to the investigation, reported euronews. Some of the children appeared to be as young as 10 or 11, according to Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla. However, it is yet to be established as to who owned, produced or distributed the material. Markle has denied the accusations, as untrue and "sick lies", according to Daily Mail. Meghan Markle, ⁠an American who married Prince Harry King Charles' younger son in 2018, has said she was "deeply distressed" over the allegations.

The arrest comes after Thomas Markle Jr, reportedly discovered boxes containing hundreds of images at his father's former home in Cebu City, in the Philippines and reported to the police.

Meghan Markle's father Thomas Markle arrested over alleged child pornography

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order seeking to protect the changes he has made to the White House Oval Office, days after Republicans suffered major losses in the midterm elections.The order designates the Oval Office, which Trump has renovated, as a national monument and seeks to prevent future presidents from making changes that could substantially alter its historic structure or architectural character.Speaking to reporters, Trump said the order would stop any future president from destroying or ripping apart the changes he had made to the famous room.However, it does not prevent his successors from changing its decor. The order states that future presidents retain the authority to redecorate the monument, select furnishings and make routine operational or security modifications, provided these do not substantially impair its historic structure or architectural character.It also calls for the Oval Office to be maintained by the National Park Service. While acknowledging existing protections for the White House, the order says the Oval Office merits specific recognition and protective management as a distinct historic structure of national significance.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/gravitas/trump-prepares-for-next-iran-war-with-hegseth-as-scapegoat-for-defeat-gravitas-1793902979875">Trump prepares for next Iran war, with Hegseth as scapegoat for defeat | Gravitas</a><h2>From Oval Office makeover to a proposed Trump triumphal arch</h2>This is not the first time Trump has pursued a major project linked to his legacy.His proposal for a United States triumphal arch, often referred to as the "Arc de Trump", is a planned 250-foot-tall monument intended to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence.However, the project has encountered a legal hurdle. US District Judge Tanya Chutkan temporarily blocked construction, ordering a 14-day pause before work could begin. The Trump administration had said construction could start this week.The ruling came a day after the National Capital Planning Commission voted 8-4 in favour of the project.Trump appointees on the commission and supporters argued that the arch would serve as a fitting tribute to US history and veterans. However, veterans have raised concerns that it could obstruct views of Arlington National Cemetery, where thousands of soldiers and service members are buried.<h2>Federal court steps in over East Potomac golf course plans</h2>Another renovation project pursued by Trump involves the East Potomac golf course in Washington, DC. That plan has also faced a legal challenge.Federal Judge Ana Reyes issued a preliminary injunction temporarily barring the government from removing or damaging additional trees at the golf course. While the lawsuit remains active, the administration must provide 10 days' written notice before making any potentially irreversible changes to the course or its features.On October 30, Reyes said she would investigate whether Justice Department lawyers had misled her about Trump's plans for the renovation.Trump had announced on social media that the East Potomac golf course would close in November for several months for renovation, despite the ongoing legal challenge.The judge is examining whether the administration's last-minute notification about removing trees was made in bad faith and whether government lawyers misrepresented the president's plans.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/gravitas/defeat-of-alt-president-elon-musk-will-spacex-shift-its-hq-from-texas-us-midterms-2026-gravitas-1793899914150">Defeat of 'Alt President' Elon Musk: Will SpaceX shift its HQ from Texas? | Gravitas</a><h2>Trump's Washington projects face legal and financial scrutiny</h2>Trump's renovation plans and proposed monuments have drawn legal challenges and criticism from lawmakers.The costs of his Washington projects are estimated in the supplied script at between $1.4 billion and $1.8 billion, involving taxpayer money and funds transferred from government agencies.The projects have become the subject of wider scrutiny over their costs, legal approvals and impact on public spaces.

Donald Trump has signed an order seeking to protect his Oval Office makeover from major changes by future presidents. Meanwhile, his proposed triumphal arch and East Potomac golf course renovation face legal challenges. Stay connected to WION for the latest updates.


US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order seeking to protect the changes he has made to the White House Oval Office, days after Republicans suffered major losses in the midterm elections. The order designates the Oval Office, which Trump has renovated, as a national monument and seeks to prevent future presidents from making changes that could substantially alter its historic structure or architectural character. Speaking to reporters, Trump said the order would stop any future president from destroying or ripping apart the changes he had made to the famous room. However, it does not prevent his successors from changing its decor. The order states that future presidents retain the authority to redecorate the monument, select furnishings and make routine operational or security modifications, provided these do not substantially impair its historic structure or architectural character. It also calls for the Oval Office to be maintained by the National Park Service. While acknowledging existing protections for the White House, the order says the Oval Office merits specific recognition and protective management as a distinct historic structure of national significance. Also read | Trump prepares for next Iran war, with Hegseth as scapegoat for defeat | Gravitas From Oval Office makeover to a proposed Trump triumphal arch This is not the first time Trump has pursued a major project linked to his legacy. His proposal for a United States triumphal arch, often referred to as the "Arc de Trump", is a planned 250-foot-tall monument intended to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence. However, the project has encountered a legal hurdle. US District Judge Tanya Chutkan temporarily blocked construction, ordering a 14-day pause before work could begin. The Trump administration had said construction could start this week. The ruling came a day after the National Capital Planning Commission voted 8-4 in favour of the project. Trump appointees on the commission and supporters argued that the arch would serve as a fitting tribute to US history and veterans. However, veterans have raised concerns that it could obstruct views of Arlington National Cemetery, where thousands of soldiers and service members are buried. Federal court steps in over East Potomac golf course plans Another renovation project pursued by Trump involves the East Potomac golf course in Washington, DC. That plan has also faced a legal challenge. Federal Judge Ana Reyes issued a preliminary injunction temporarily barring the government from removing or damaging additional trees at the golf course. While the lawsuit remains active, the administration must provide 10 days' written notice before making any potentially irreversible changes to the course or its features. On October 30, Reyes said she would investigate whether Justice Department lawyers had misled her about Trump's plans for the renovation. Trump had announced on social media that the East Potomac golf course would close in November for several months for renovation, despite the ongoing legal challenge. The judge is examining whether the administration's last-minute notification about removing trees was made in bad faith and whether government lawyers misrepresented the president's plans. Also read | Defeat of 'Alt President' Elon Musk: Will SpaceX shift its HQ from Texas? | Gravitas Trump's Washington projects face legal and financial scrutiny Trump's renovation plans and proposed monuments have drawn legal challenges and criticism from lawmakers. The costs of his Washington projects are estimated in the supplied script at between $1.4 billion and $1.8 billion, involving taxpayer money and funds transferred from government agencies. The projects have become the subject of wider scrutiny over their costs, legal approvals and impact on public spaces.

Donald Trump has signed an order seeking to protect his Oval Office makeover from major changes by future presidents. Meanwhile, his proposed triumphal arch and East Potomac golf course renovation face legal challenges.&nbsp;

Trump more concerned about golden Oval Office than blue America, signs order preventing future changes | Gravitas

New Delhi: In a series of events across the US Pacific Northwest, the governors of six states and mayors of more than 20 cities have hosted official Diwali ceremonies at state capitols, governors’ mansions and city halls, marking the first time the festival has received such high-level recognition in the region.&nbsp; The celebrations, which began in mid-October and continue through 10 November 2026, have drawn US senators, members of Congress, local leaders and large numbers of Indian Americans. Governors Brad Little of Idaho, Jim Pillen of Nebraska, Kelly Armstrong of North Dakota, Greg Gianforte of Montana and Bob Ferguson of Washington have already presided over lamp-lighting ceremonies, with Oregon Governor Tina Kotek scheduled to host the final event at the State Capitol in Salem on 10 November. India's Consul General to Seattle, Prakash Gupta was present at the celebrations.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-holds-naval-drills-with-myanmar-greece-us-attends-malabar-exercises-in-japan-1793981016313">India holds naval drills with Myanmar, Greece, US; attends Malabar exercises in Japan</a> At the Idaho State Capitol on 16 October, Governor Little praised the community’s contributions: “Here in Idaho, we’re proud to have a vibrant Indian community that contributes very much to our state through their businesses, professions, service and civic involvement. Indian Americans help strengthen Idaho’s economy and help our communities be better places to live, work and raise a family.” In Nebraska, Governor Pillen told guests at the Governor’s Mansion in Lincoln on 20 October: “The Indian community is an incredibly vital piece of who we are as the people of Nebraska... It’s really important that you keep these traditions alive in your families. Never, ever, ever let the light go out!” North Dakota’s Governor Armstrong, speaking at the Governor’s Residence in Bismarck on 29 October, emphasised personal ties: “We should celebrate these relationships. We should celebrate these friendships. Diversity is our strength... We’re going to continue this relationship because it’s a fantastic one, at an international level, at a trade level, at a state-to-state level, at a diplomatic level, but most importantly, a human level.”&nbsp; Washington’s Governor Ferguson, addressing a gathering in the Rotunda of the State Capitol in Olympia on 4 November, noted demographic trends: “We are proud to be home to one of the largest shares of Indian Americans in the country. And during the previous decade, we had the fastest growing Indian American population in the entire country. And we have seen this community contribute so much to our state.” Within Washington State, where nearly 200,000 Indian Americans live in the Greater Seattle area, 22 cities held individual ceremonies inside city council chambers, with mayors presiding over traditional lamp lighting in the presence of council members. Cities including Auburn, Everett, Marysville, Kirkland, Bellevue, Tukwila, Medina, Bothell, SeaTac, DuPont, Spokane, Issaquah, Edmonds, Lynnwood, Duvall, Tacoma, Mukilteo and Kent have already observed the festival, with further events planned in Snoqualmie, King County and Seattle itself on 10 November. Several states and cities also issued official proclamations recognising Diwali as a festival symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and highlighting the Indian American community’s economic and cultural contributions, while pointing to partnership with the Consulate General of India in Seattle. The Consulate worked closely with community leaders to organise the events.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sacred-relics-of-the-buddha-unveiled-in-arunachal-pradesh-1793610702296">Sacred relics of the Buddha unveiled in Arunachal Pradesh</a> One of the most colourful moments came in Montana, where participants danced to the Bollywood hit “London Thumakda” during the state’s first official Diwali celebration at the Governor’s Mansion in Helena on 26 October. US President Donald Trump is also scheduled to take part in Diwali celebrations later today.&nbsp; The Pacific Northwest events form part of a broader pattern of Diwali celebrations globally. In Singapore, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong played the sitar at the opening of the new campus of the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society on 31 October, marking the society’s 77th anniversary and highlighting the country’s multicultural approach. The President’s official residence held an open house the following day. In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Andy Burnham marked his first Diwali in the role with a reception at 10 Downing Street, lighting ceremonial diyas with his wife and praising the contributions of Britain’s Hindu, Sikh, Jain and wider communities while pledging strong links with India. Leicester is preparing one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside India for 8 November. In Bangkok, the Indian community held a grand celebration attended by Thai officials, including the Director General of Religious Affairs and the Assistant Permanent Secretary for Culture, alongside India’s Ambassador Puneet Agrawal and diplomats from several countries.&nbsp;

Diwali celebrations have reached state capitols, governors' mansions and city halls across the US Pacific Northwest. Six governors and mayors in more than 20 cities have joined official ceremonies, marking an unprecedented level of recognition for the festival in the region.

New Delhi: In a series of events across the US Pacific Northwest, the governors of six states and mayors of more than 20 cities have hosted official Diwali ceremonies at state capitols, governors’ mansions and city halls, marking the first time the festival has received such high-level recognition in the region. The celebrations, which began in mid-October and continue through 10 November 2026, have drawn US senators, members of Congress, local leaders and large numbers of Indian Americans. Governors Brad Little of Idaho, Jim Pillen of Nebraska, Kelly Armstrong of North Dakota, Greg Gianforte of Montana and Bob Ferguson of Washington have already presided over lamp-lighting ceremonies, with Oregon Governor Tina Kotek scheduled to host the final event at the State Capitol in Salem on 10 November. India's Consul General to Seattle, Prakash Gupta was present at the celebrations. Also read | India holds naval drills with Myanmar, Greece, US; attends Malabar exercises in Japan At the Idaho State Capitol on 16 October, Governor Little praised the community’s contributions: “Here in Idaho, we’re proud to have a vibrant Indian community that contributes very much to our state through their businesses, professions, service and civic involvement. Indian Americans help strengthen Idaho’s economy and help our communities be better places to live, work and raise a family.” In Nebraska, Governor Pillen told guests at the Governor’s Mansion in Lincoln on 20 October: “The Indian community is an incredibly vital piece of who we are as the people of Nebraska... It’s really important that you keep these traditions alive in your families. Never, ever, ever let the light go out!” North Dakota’s Governor Armstrong, speaking at the Governor’s Residence in Bismarck on 29 October, emphasised personal ties: “We should celebrate these relationships. We should celebrate these friendships. Diversity is our strength... We’re going to continue this relationship because it’s a fantastic one, at an international level, at a trade level, at a state-to-state level, at a diplomatic level, but most importantly, a human level.” Washington’s Governor Ferguson, addressing a gathering in the Rotunda of the State Capitol in Olympia on 4 November, noted demographic trends: “We are proud to be home to one of the largest shares of Indian Americans in the country. And during the previous decade, we had the fastest growing Indian American population in the entire country. And we have seen this community contribute so much to our state.” Within Washington State, where nearly 200,000 Indian Americans live in the Greater Seattle area, 22 cities held individual ceremonies inside city council chambers, with mayors presiding over traditional lamp lighting in the presence of council members. Cities including Auburn, Everett, Marysville, Kirkland, Bellevue, Tukwila, Medina, Bothell, SeaTac, DuPont, Spokane, Issaquah, Edmonds, Lynnwood, Duvall, Tacoma, Mukilteo and Kent have already observed the festival, with further events planned in Snoqualmie, King County and Seattle itself on 10 November. Several states and cities also issued official proclamations recognising Diwali as a festival symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and highlighting the Indian American community’s economic and cultural contributions, while pointing to partnership with the Consulate General of India in Seattle. The Consulate worked closely with community leaders to organise the events. Also read | Sacred relics of the Buddha unveiled in Arunachal Pradesh One of the most colourful moments came in Montana, where participants danced to the Bollywood hit “London Thumakda” during the state’s first official Diwali celebration at the Governor’s Mansion in Helena on 26 October. US President Donald Trump is also scheduled to take part in Diwali celebrations later today. The Pacific Northwest events form part of a broader pattern of Diwali celebrations globally. In Singapore, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong played the sitar at the opening of the new campus of the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society on 31 October, marking the society’s 77th anniversary and highlighting the country’s multicultural approach. The President’s official residence held an open house the following day. In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Andy Burnham marked his first Diwali in the role with a reception at 10 Downing Street, lighting ceremonial diyas with his wife and praising the contributions of Britain’s Hindu, Sikh, Jain and wider communities while pledging strong links with India. Leicester is preparing one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside India for 8 November. In Bangkok, the Indian community held a grand celebration attended by Thai officials, including the Director General of Religious Affairs and the Assistant Permanent Secretary for Culture, alongside India’s Ambassador Puneet Agrawal and diplomats from several countries.

Diwali celebrations have reached state capitols, governors' mansions and city halls across the US Pacific Northwest. Six governors and mayors in more than 20 cities have joined official ceremonies, marking an unprecedented level of recognition for the festival in the region.

US Northwest Governors host Diwali at Capitols as festival celebration begin globally

Israel's opposition said Friday (Nov 06) it was making headway in its attempt to unseat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after one of its leaders lifted his veto on demands that ultra-Orthodox Jews serve in the military, opening the door to a once improbable alliance. Neither Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister, nor opposition chief Gadi Eisenkot reached a majority in the October 27 election, with Israeli society deeply polarised over Netanyahu and worn down by three years of war.<h2>Eisenkot expects the mandate</h2>Eisenkot said he expects President Isaac Herzog, who met party leaders this week, to hand him the mandate to form a government when he makes his announcement Sunday. "We have made significant progress and achieved breakthroughs, quietly and modestly, with much still happening behind the scenes," Eisenkot wrote on X moments before much of Israel shut down for the weekly Sabbath.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-that-on-air-israeli-actress-chelli-goldenberg-says-she-is-no-longer-proud-to-be-israeli-realises-interview-is-live-watch-video-1793341594578">'Was that on air?': Israeli actress Chelli Goldenberg says she's 'no longer proud to be Israeli', realises interview is live | Watch video</a>Yair Golan, Israel's main left-wing leader and part of the opposition bloc, also pointed to momentum. "I'm more optimistic than I was on the Wednesday morning after the election results," he said.Eisenkot, a former military commander whose campaign sought to appeal to secular and liberal Israelis, could form a government with Israeli-Arabs, whose seat count soared on anger towards Netanyahu's far-right government. But that path runs into firm resistance from opposition partner Avigdor Liberman, a onetime aide to Netanyahu who now criticises him sharply while sharing his hawkish views on the Palestinians.<h2>Liberman's U-turn</h2>Liberman said Friday he would not back down on refusing to work with Israeli-Arabs, but called for talks with ultra-Orthodox Jews, despite having run on promises to end their exemption from mandatory military service. He said it was time to "understand that trying to have everything risks getting nothing.""This pains me, and I know it pains many others as well. But given the full range of challenges we face today, the national interest of the State of Israel and the Jewish people must take precedence over all other considerations," he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-election-results-final-vote-tally-made-public-new-knesset-to-be-sworn-in-on-nov-10-how-did-netanyahu-fare-1793327528882">Israel election results: Final vote tally published; new Knesset to be sworn in on Nov 10. Who won, Netanyahu's Likud or Eisenkot’s Yashar?</a><h2>Ultra-Orthodox power returns</h2>The exemption has fuelled widespread resentment among other Israelis, with reservists serving multiple tours in the wars Israel has fought since the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas. Netanyahu, personally secular, has long relied on the ultra-Orthodox, accepting that the community, around 14 per cent of the population with a much higher birth rate than the Israeli average, can send children to religious schools rather than the army.He stopped short of enshrining the exemption into law, angering the two main ultra-Orthodox parties. One of them, United Torah Judaism, declined Thursday to recommend Netanyahu to form the next government during consultations with Herzog, but did not back Eisenkot either.Yaakov Asher, a lawmaker from the party, welcomed Liberman's shift and said its rabbis would assess any formal alliance proposal. "It is encouraging to learn of the flexibility of all political actors on the subject of conscription," Asher said. "It is painful to think how much incitement and hatred between brothers could have been avoided had that same flexibility been demonstrated in recent years."His party and Shas together hold 13 seats, enough to bring Eisenkot to power. Liberman's Yisrael Beiteinu won seven seats, the fewest among the five core opposition parties. Naftali Bennett, a former prime minister who also campaigned hard on ending the exemption, has not commented on Liberman's about-face.

Israel's opposition says it is closing in on a deal to unseat Benjamin Netanyahu, after Avigdor Liberman dropped his veto on demands that ultra-Orthodox Jews serve in the military. Eisenkot expects the mandate on Sunday. Read the full story here.

Israel's opposition said Friday (Nov 06) it was making headway in its attempt to unseat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after one of its leaders lifted his veto on demands that ultra-Orthodox Jews serve in the military, opening the door to a once improbable alliance. Neither Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister, nor opposition chief Gadi Eisenkot reached a majority in the October 27 election, with Israeli society deeply polarised over Netanyahu and worn down by three years of war. Eisenkot expects the mandate Eisenkot said he expects President Isaac Herzog, who met party leaders this week, to hand him the mandate to form a government when he makes his announcement Sunday. "We have made significant progress and achieved breakthroughs, quietly and modestly, with much still happening behind the scenes," Eisenkot wrote on X moments before much of Israel shut down for the weekly Sabbath. Also read | 'Was that on air?': Israeli actress Chelli Goldenberg says she's 'no longer proud to be Israeli', realises interview is live | Watch video Yair Golan, Israel's main left-wing leader and part of the opposition bloc, also pointed to momentum. "I'm more optimistic than I was on the Wednesday morning after the election results," he said. Eisenkot, a former military commander whose campaign sought to appeal to secular and liberal Israelis, could form a government with Israeli-Arabs, whose seat count soared on anger towards Netanyahu's far-right government. But that path runs into firm resistance from opposition partner Avigdor Liberman, a onetime aide to Netanyahu who now criticises him sharply while sharing his hawkish views on the Palestinians. Liberman's U-turn Liberman said Friday he would not back down on refusing to work with Israeli-Arabs, but called for talks with ultra-Orthodox Jews, despite having run on promises to end their exemption from mandatory military service. He said it was time to "understand that trying to have everything risks getting nothing." "This pains me, and I know it pains many others as well. But given the full range of challenges we face today, the national interest of the State of Israel and the Jewish people must take precedence over all other considerations," he said. Also read | Israel election results: Final vote tally published; new Knesset to be sworn in on Nov 10. Who won, Netanyahu's Likud or Eisenkot’s Yashar? Ultra-Orthodox power returns The exemption has fuelled widespread resentment among other Israelis, with reservists serving multiple tours in the wars Israel has fought since the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas. Netanyahu, personally secular, has long relied on the ultra-Orthodox, accepting that the community, around 14 per cent of the population with a much higher birth rate than the Israeli average, can send children to religious schools rather than the army. He stopped short of enshrining the exemption into law, angering the two main ultra-Orthodox parties. One of them, United Torah Judaism, declined Thursday to recommend Netanyahu to form the next government during consultations with Herzog, but did not back Eisenkot either. Yaakov Asher, a lawmaker from the party, welcomed Liberman's shift and said its rabbis would assess any formal alliance proposal. "It is encouraging to learn of the flexibility of all political actors on the subject of conscription," Asher said. "It is painful to think how much incitement and hatred between brothers could have been avoided had that same flexibility been demonstrated in recent years." His party and Shas together hold 13 seats, enough to bring Eisenkot to power. Liberman's Yisrael Beiteinu won seven seats, the fewest among the five core opposition parties. Naftali Bennett, a former prime minister who also campaigned hard on ending the exemption, has not commented on Liberman's about-face.

Israel's opposition says it is closing in on a deal to unseat Benjamin Netanyahu, after Avigdor Liberman dropped his veto on demands that ultra-Orthodox Jews serve in the military. Eisenkot expects the mandate on Sunday. Read the full story here.

New Delhi: India has conducted a series of bilateral and multilateral military exercises with partners across the Indo-Pacific and Mediterranean in recent days, with emphasis on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and closer operational coordination with foreign armed forces. The Indian Navy coordinated the maiden Tri-Services Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise with Myanmar, titled RAHAT MITRA, in Chennai on 5–6 November. More than 300 personnel from the three services of both countries took part. The exercise, under the theme “Together for Humanity, Stronger through Partnership", focused on professional exchanges and improving interoperability for disaster response. Indian officials described it as consistent with New Delhi’s Neighbourhood First policy and the broader strategic framework known as MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ins-sahyadri-joins-us-japan-and-australia-navies-for-the-malabar-exercises-1793905424984">INS Sahyadri joins US, Japan and Australia Navies for the Malabar Exercises</a> Separately, the long-running multilateral naval exercise MALABAR 2026 opened in Yokosuka, Japan, on 5 November. Hosted by the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force, the opening ceremony was attended by Vice Admiral A.N. Pramod, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, along with senior officers from Australia, Japan and the United States. The exercise runs until 12 November, with the Indian Navy’s INS Sahyadri participating. Its stated aim is to enhance interoperability and operational coordination among the four participating navies. In the Mediterranean, INS Trishul concluded a port call at Souda Bay, Greece, on 3 November as part of an ongoing deployment. The visit included meetings with senior Hellenic Navy officers and heads of the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operational Training Centre and the US Naval Support Activity at Souda Bay. Discussions covered logistics, mutual support and areas of common interest. A passage exercise with the Hellenic Navy frigate HS Limnos involved manoeuvring drills, replenishment approaches and cross-deck helicopter operations. India’s Ambassador to Greece &nbsp;Ravi Shankar visited the ship and attended a cultural event onboard.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-expresses-appreciation-after-indian-navy-and-air-force-rescue-iranian-crew-from-somali-pirates-1793690677267">Iran expresses appreciation after Indian Navy and Air Force rescue Iranian crew from Somali pirates</a> On the same day that RAHAT MITRA and MALABAR began, the fifth edition of the India-US Tri-Service HADR exercise Tiger Triumph concluded with a closing ceremony in Visakhapatnam. Conducted from 31 October to 5 November, it comprised a staff exercise and a tabletop exercise focused on planning and executing combined humanitarian operations, with particular attention to amphibious activities. Participants exchanged views on cyberspace and medical operations. The closing event was attended by Rear Admiral Vishal Bishnoi, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, and Rear Admiral Joaquin J. Martinez de Pinillos, Vice Commander of the US Pacific Fleet. The exercise series began in 2019. Meanwhile, the 11th edition of the India-Indonesia joint special forces exercise Garuda Shakti ended on 5 November in Banyuwangi, Indonesia. Troops from the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and Indonesian special forces trained in jungle terrain on combat marksmanship, obstacle crossing, mountaineering, heli-borne insertion, tactical patrolling and combat tracking. They also practised the use of drones for surveillance. The closing ceremony was attended by the Indian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, and the commander of Indonesia’s Division 2. The drills support New Delhi’s engagement from the Mediterranean to the Indo-Pacific.

From the maiden RAHAT MITRA exercise with Myanmar to MALABAR 2026 in Japan and special forces drills in Indonesia, India has stepped up military engagement with international partners. The exercises focus on disaster relief, interoperability and closer operational coordination across regions.

New Delhi: India has conducted a series of bilateral and multilateral military exercises with partners across the Indo-Pacific and Mediterranean in recent days, with emphasis on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and closer operational coordination with foreign armed forces. The Indian Navy coordinated the maiden Tri-Services Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise with Myanmar, titled RAHAT MITRA, in Chennai on 5–6 November. More than 300 personnel from the three services of both countries took part. The exercise, under the theme “Together for Humanity, Stronger through Partnership", focused on professional exchanges and improving interoperability for disaster response. Indian officials described it as consistent with New Delhi’s Neighbourhood First policy and the broader strategic framework known as MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). Also read | INS Sahyadri joins US, Japan and Australia Navies for the Malabar Exercises Separately, the long-running multilateral naval exercise MALABAR 2026 opened in Yokosuka, Japan, on 5 November. Hosted by the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force, the opening ceremony was attended by Vice Admiral A.N. Pramod, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, along with senior officers from Australia, Japan and the United States. The exercise runs until 12 November, with the Indian Navy’s INS Sahyadri participating. Its stated aim is to enhance interoperability and operational coordination among the four participating navies. In the Mediterranean, INS Trishul concluded a port call at Souda Bay, Greece, on 3 November as part of an ongoing deployment. The visit included meetings with senior Hellenic Navy officers and heads of the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operational Training Centre and the US Naval Support Activity at Souda Bay. Discussions covered logistics, mutual support and areas of common interest. A passage exercise with the Hellenic Navy frigate HS Limnos involved manoeuvring drills, replenishment approaches and cross-deck helicopter operations. India’s Ambassador to Greece Ravi Shankar visited the ship and attended a cultural event onboard. Also read | Iran expresses appreciation after Indian Navy and Air Force rescue Iranian crew from Somali pirates On the same day that RAHAT MITRA and MALABAR began, the fifth edition of the India-US Tri-Service HADR exercise Tiger Triumph concluded with a closing ceremony in Visakhapatnam. Conducted from 31 October to 5 November, it comprised a staff exercise and a tabletop exercise focused on planning and executing combined humanitarian operations, with particular attention to amphibious activities. Participants exchanged views on cyberspace and medical operations. The closing event was attended by Rear Admiral Vishal Bishnoi, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, and Rear Admiral Joaquin J. Martinez de Pinillos, Vice Commander of the US Pacific Fleet. The exercise series began in 2019. Meanwhile, the 11th edition of the India-Indonesia joint special forces exercise Garuda Shakti ended on 5 November in Banyuwangi, Indonesia. Troops from the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and Indonesian special forces trained in jungle terrain on combat marksmanship, obstacle crossing, mountaineering, heli-borne insertion, tactical patrolling and combat tracking. They also practised the use of drones for surveillance. The closing ceremony was attended by the Indian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, and the commander of Indonesia’s Division 2. The drills support New Delhi’s engagement from the Mediterranean to the Indo-Pacific.

From the maiden RAHAT MITRA exercise with Myanmar to MALABAR 2026 in Japan and special forces drills in Indonesia, India has stepped up military engagement with international partners. The exercises focus on disaster relief, interoperability and closer operational coordination across regions.

India holds naval drills with Myanmar, Greece, US; attends Malabar exercises in Japan

The White House, after a bruising midterm defeat, has posted a 44-second AI-generated LEGO video of Donald Trump styled as a Zelda hero, capped by a message that says the quiet part out loud: he is still in charge.The video, titled "The Legend of Trump: Make America Great Again," was posted on the official White House X and Instagram account after Republicans lost control of Congress. Its caption, "It's dangerous to go alone! Take this 🇺🇸," lifts directly from the classic Zelda scene where an old man hands Link his first sword.<h2>What's in the video</h2>The clip opens on a Zelda-style title card, a blue shield with a red bird emblem and a sword crossed behind it, with "PRESS CONTINUE" at the bottom. A low-poly, Nintendo 64-style Trump then appears in a dark blue suit, red tie and a red hat reading "STILL YOUR PRESIDENT."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hazardous-waste-to-mission-failed-iran-mocks-trump-as-democrats-sweep-the-2026-us-midterms-watch-1793791862253">'Hazardous waste' to ‘mission failed’: Iran mocks Trump as Democrats sweep the 2026 US midterms | WATCH</a>From there, he runs through a grassy nighttime forest toward a hollow tree, complete with heart containers, a green stamina bar, an attack button and a floating fairy companion. Text boxes surface along the way, claiming the sharpest drop in prescription drug prices in more than 60 years through Most-Favored-Nations pricing, and zero illegal alien releases into the US for 17 consecutive months.The scene then cuts to the Oval Office, where Trump sits at the Resolute Desk signing documents, flags behind him. A final text box reads: "President Trump is working tirelessly... TO MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!!" The video ends on a white line drawing of the White House and the words "PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP." Watch it here:

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Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/he-has-turned-opponents-into-enemies-mj-akbar-says-trump-s-language-cost-him-the-us-midterm-election-1793877932800">'He has turned opponents into enemies': MJ Akbar says Trump's language cost him the US midterm election</a>

After Republicans suffered a loss in the US Midterms, the Trump White House has posted an AI video casting the POTUS as a Zelda-style hero, complete with a hat with the reminder "STILL YOUR PRESIDENT." Read the full story here.

The White House, after a bruising midterm defeat, has posted a 44-second AI-generated LEGO video of Donald Trump styled as a Zelda hero, capped by a message that says the quiet part out loud: he is still in charge. The video, titled "The Legend of Trump: Make America Great Again," was posted on the official White House X and Instagram account after Republicans lost control of Congress. Its caption, "It's dangerous to go alone! Take this 🇺🇸," lifts directly from the classic Zelda scene where an old man hands Link his first sword. What's in the video The clip opens on a Zelda-style title card, a blue shield with a red bird emblem and a sword crossed behind it, with "PRESS CONTINUE" at the bottom. A low-poly, Nintendo 64-style Trump then appears in a dark blue suit, red tie and a red hat reading "STILL YOUR PRESIDENT." Also read | 'Hazardous waste' to ‘mission failed’: Iran mocks Trump as Democrats sweep the 2026 US midterms | WATCH From there, he runs through a grassy nighttime forest toward a hollow tree, complete with heart containers, a green stamina bar, an attack button and a floating fairy companion. Text boxes surface along the way, claiming the sharpest drop in prescription drug prices in more than 60 years through Most-Favored-Nations pricing, and zero illegal alien releases into the US for 17 consecutive months. The scene then cuts to the Oval Office, where Trump sits at the Resolute Desk signing documents, flags behind him. A final text box reads: "President Trump is working tirelessly... TO MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!!" The video ends on a white line drawing of the White House and the words "PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP." Watch it here:

After Republicans suffered a loss in the US Midterms, the Trump White House has posted an AI video casting the POTUS as a Zelda-style hero, complete with a hat with the reminder "STILL YOUR PRESIDENT." Read the full story here.

Midterm loss forces Trump White House to post AI-generated reminder: 'Still your president' | WATCH

Paul Mackenzie, the self-proclaimed pastor behind Kenya's Shakahola Forest starvation cult, was sentenced to 200 years in prison on Friday (Nov 06) for the murder of 191 people. Notably, 190, i.e, all but one of Mackenzie's victims, were children. He was sentenced alongside more than two dozen co-accused at the Mombasa High Court.Mackenzie, founder of the Good News International Church, had persuaded followers to abandon their homes and move to Shakahola Forest in eastern Kenya, promising that fasting there would bring them closer to God and prepare them for heaven.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-uk-pm-andy-burnham-rules-out-inviting-russian-counterpart-vladimir-putin-to-g20-summit-cites-sanctions-1793883705290">'No': UK PM Andy Burnham rules out inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to G20 summit. Here's why</a><h2>Good News International Church: The shocking scale of the killings</h2>Mackenzie was convicted last month of murdering 190 children and one adult between January 2021 and September 2023, together with 28 co-accused. His lawyer said he would appeal. He also faces separate manslaughter and terrorism charges, which he denies.Hundreds of bodies have been recovered since 2023 at the sect's base near the coastal resort of Malindi, in what became known as the Shakahola Forest Massacre. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights put the death toll at 429 in 2024, and some victims remain unidentified.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/florida-s-own-jaws-moment-bull-shark-spotted-swimming-flooded-neighbourhood-video-goes-viral-watch-1793874472651">Florida's own 'Jaws' moment? Bull Shark spotted swimming flooded neighbourhood, video goes viral | WATCH</a><h2>Prosecutors had sought the death penalty</h2>The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions had urged the court to impose capital punishment, citing the scale of the loss of life. "The prosecution supports the imposition of capital punishment for Mackenzie, subject to consideration of his mitigation, remorse, regret and prospects of rehabilitation," Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Jami Yamina said this week. Prosecutors also asked for life imprisonment for the co-accused, arguing they had been deeply indoctrinated by Mackenzie and were at risk of reoffending.Kenya's law provides for the death penalty, but the country has not carried out an execution since 1987.<h2>Shocking details of cult life come to light</h2>Around 120 prosecution witnesses testified during Mackenzie's trial. According to their accounts, the movement denounced formal education as "satanic", treated modern medicine and hospitals as instruments of the devil, and required followers to cut themselves off from the outside world.Mackenzie was arrested in April 2023 after a rights group alerted authorities and some followers were rescued from the 325-hectare ranch in the Shakahola forest. The former taxi driver appeared indifferent as he arrived in court on Friday, wearing a polo shirt and sporting a faint smile.

Kenyan cult leader Paul Mackenzie has been sentenced to 200 years in prison for the murder of 191 people, all but one of them children, in the Shakahola Forest starvation cult. Prosecutors had sought the death penalty. Read the full story here.

Paul Mackenzie, the self-proclaimed pastor behind Kenya's Shakahola Forest starvation cult, was sentenced to 200 years in prison on Friday (Nov 06) for the murder of 191 people. Notably, 190, i.e, all but one of Mackenzie's victims, were children. He was sentenced alongside more than two dozen co-accused at the Mombasa High Court. Mackenzie, founder of the Good News International Church, had persuaded followers to abandon their homes and move to Shakahola Forest in eastern Kenya, promising that fasting there would bring them closer to God and prepare them for heaven. Also read | 'No': UK PM Andy Burnham rules out inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to G20 summit. Here's why Good News International Church: The shocking scale of the killings Mackenzie was convicted last month of murdering 190 children and one adult between January 2021 and September 2023, together with 28 co-accused. His lawyer said he would appeal. He also faces separate manslaughter and terrorism charges, which he denies. Hundreds of bodies have been recovered since 2023 at the sect's base near the coastal resort of Malindi, in what became known as the Shakahola Forest Massacre. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights put the death toll at 429 in 2024, and some victims remain unidentified. Also read | Florida's own 'Jaws' moment? Bull Shark spotted swimming flooded neighbourhood, video goes viral | WATCH Prosecutors had sought the death penalty The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions had urged the court to impose capital punishment, citing the scale of the loss of life. "The prosecution supports the imposition of capital punishment for Mackenzie, subject to consideration of his mitigation, remorse, regret and prospects of rehabilitation," Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Jami Yamina said this week. Prosecutors also asked for life imprisonment for the co-accused, arguing they had been deeply indoctrinated by Mackenzie and were at risk of reoffending. Kenya's law provides for the death penalty, but the country has not carried out an execution since 1987. Shocking details of cult life come to light Around 120 prosecution witnesses testified during Mackenzie's trial. According to their accounts, the movement denounced formal education as "satanic", treated modern medicine and hospitals as instruments of the devil, and required followers to cut themselves off from the outside world. Mackenzie was arrested in April 2023 after a rights group alerted authorities and some followers were rescued from the 325-hectare ranch in the Shakahola forest. The former taxi driver appeared indifferent as he arrived in court on Friday, wearing a polo shirt and sporting a faint smile.

Kenyan cult leader Paul Mackenzie has been sentenced to 200 years in prison for the murder of 191 people, all but one of them children, in the Shakahola Forest starvation cult. Prosecutors had sought the death penalty. Read the full story here.

Shakahola massacre: Kenyan doomsday cult leader Paul Mackenzie sentenced to 200 years for murder of 190 children, 1 adult

Pre-election data and initial voting trends show a sharp shift among Indian American and South Asian voters in Texas away from the Republican Party ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. Overwhelming support from these voting blocs helped secure historic Democratic victories across the state, including the governor’s mansion, a pivotal US Senate seat, and several down-ballot races.&nbsp;Although Republicans and President Donald Trump had made notable gains with the demographic in 2024, rising anti-Indian rhetoric within conservative circles drastically reversed those trends. Community leaders warned before the vote that right-wing candidates and influencers questioning South Asian loyalty to the U.S. alienated even conservative voters, driving one of Texas' key electorates firmly back toward the Democratic Party.&nbsp;<h2>Support halved</h2>&nbsp;An analysis published Monday by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace found that Republicans had roughly halved their support among Indian Americans compared with 2024, when about one in three said they would back the party, a record high. "That one in three has now disappeared and gone back to what it was before," said Sumitra Badrinathan, the American University professor who conducted the study, as quoted in HuffPost. She added that discrimination was not "the only issue on the table", noting that the community shared the wider public's concerns, such as rising gas and grocery costs.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/abdul-el-sayed-investigate-rfk-jr-cyclospora-outbreak-michigan-1793948909971">El-Sayed to probe RFK Jr. over 'anti-science' approach after cyclospora outbreak</a>&nbsp;<h2>Collin County results</h2>&nbsp;Results from Collin County, a Dallas suburb with a large Indian American population, appear to show the impact of the rhetoric. Bo French, whose post on X about the crowd at a University of Texas football game drew national attention to the right's growing hostility toward Indian Americans, underperformed Texas Governor Greg Abbott in the county's neighbourhoods with large South Asian populations. Both Abbott and French lost to their Democratic challengers.&nbsp;French is among those on the right who have for over a year directed anti-immigrant rhetoric at Indian Americans, part of broader criticism of H-1B skilled worker visas, which they see as a means for employers to hire cheap foreign labour over Americans.&nbsp;Mainstream Republican leaders largely ignored his message. Neither Trump nor Vice President JD Vance, whose wife is Indian American, commented, though Trump left French off his endorsement list before Election Day. Abbott said only that French's remarks were "not my message".&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-love-this-city-nithya-raman-reacts-after-historic-los-angeles-mayoral-victory-1793946672964">‘This city opened its arms’: Nithya Raman gets emotional after LA mayoral win</a><h2>Independents a factor</h2>&nbsp;Badrinathan cautioned that neither party should take the community's support for granted. Her report found that roughly a quarter of respondents identified as independents. "Elections have shown that about half of this population is solidly Democratic," she said.

Texas Indian American and South Asian voters swung sharply to Democrats in the midterms after right-wing anti-Indian rhetoric alienated key GOP blocs.

Pre-election data and initial voting trends show a sharp shift among Indian American and South Asian voters in Texas away from the Republican Party ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. Overwhelming support from these voting blocs helped secure historic Democratic victories across the state, including the governor’s mansion, a pivotal US Senate seat, and several down-ballot races. Although Republicans and President Donald Trump had made notable gains with the demographic in 2024, rising anti-Indian rhetoric within conservative circles drastically reversed those trends. Community leaders warned before the vote that right-wing candidates and influencers questioning South Asian loyalty to the U.S. alienated even conservative voters, driving one of Texas' key electorates firmly back toward the Democratic Party. Support halved An analysis published Monday by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace found that Republicans had roughly halved their support among Indian Americans compared with 2024, when about one in three said they would back the party, a record high. "That one in three has now disappeared and gone back to what it was before," said Sumitra Badrinathan, the American University professor who conducted the study, as quoted in HuffPost. She added that discrimination was not "the only issue on the table", noting that the community shared the wider public's concerns, such as rising gas and grocery costs. Also read: El-Sayed to probe RFK Jr. over 'anti-science' approach after cyclospora outbreak Collin County results Results from Collin County, a Dallas suburb with a large Indian American population, appear to show the impact of the rhetoric. Bo French, whose post on X about the crowd at a University of Texas football game drew national attention to the right's growing hostility toward Indian Americans, underperformed Texas Governor Greg Abbott in the county's neighbourhoods with large South Asian populations. Both Abbott and French lost to their Democratic challengers. French is among those on the right who have for over a year directed anti-immigrant rhetoric at Indian Americans, part of broader criticism of H-1B skilled worker visas, which they see as a means for employers to hire cheap foreign labour over Americans. Mainstream Republican leaders largely ignored his message. Neither Trump nor Vice President JD Vance, whose wife is Indian American, commented, though Trump left French off his endorsement list before Election Day. Abbott said only that French's remarks were "not my message". Also read: ‘This city opened its arms’: Nithya Raman gets emotional after LA mayoral win Independents a factor Badrinathan cautioned that neither party should take the community's support for granted. Her report found that roughly a quarter of respondents identified as independents. "Elections have shown that about half of this population is solidly Democratic," she said.

Texas Indian American and South Asian voters swung sharply to Democrats in the midterms after right-wing anti-Indian rhetoric alienated key GOP blocs.

Ignored warnings: How the GOP alienated Indian American voters ahead of midterms

New bomb threats targeted multiple flights to and from Prague and Sofia on Friday (Nov 03), authorities said, extending a week of hoax alerts that has disrupted commercial aviation across Europe.Four arriving flights at Prague airport and five departing flights were targeted, AFP reported, citing airport spokesperson Denisa Hejtmankova. "The threats concern incoming flights from Denmark, Great Britain and two from Spain," she said. "As for outgoing flights, it's flights to the Netherlands, Cyprus, Romania, Italy and Great Britain."Prague airport spokesperson Jiri Hannich told AFP that "airport operation remains standard and smooth" despite the threats. Czech police had already checked four planes following threats on Thursday.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenyan-doomsday-cult-leader-paul-mackenzie-sentenced-to-200-years-for-murder-of-190-children-1-adult-1793967055262">Shakahola massacre: Kenyan doomsday cult leader Paul Mackenzie sentenced to 200 years for murder of 190 children, 1 adult</a><h2>Sofia and Lisbon also hit</h2>A Bulgarian transport ministry spokesperson told AFP that alerts were received for two flights to Sofia on Friday. Both flights, arriving from London Stansted in Britain and from Brussels, landed safely.Portuguese police said a Ryanair flight scheduled to depart from Lisbon to Rome was also targeted.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-uk-pm-andy-burnham-rules-out-inviting-russian-counterpart-vladimir-putin-to-g20-summit-cites-sanctions-1793883705290">'No': UK PM Andy Burnham rules out inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to G20 summit. Here's why</a><h2>Plane bombs: A week of false alarms</h2>Dozens of commercial flights in Europe have been targeted by false alarms this week, forcing authorities to reroute some planes or escort civilian aircraft with fighter jets.This was the fourth day of hoax bomb alerts across Europe. Previously, on Thursday, about 20 commercial flights were hit by the bomb threat hoax. The hoaxes particularly targeted low-cost carriers and flights to or from Bulgaria, Czech Republic and Italy. No claim of responsibility was made for any of the flights, but threats against flights sent to airports in Rome and Sofia, seen by AFP, contained misogynistic messages and claimed to be from "fighters of the Male State".

Fresh bomb threats have targeted nine flights to and from Prague and two arriving in Sofia, with a Ryanair flight from Lisbon also hit, as hoax alerts disrupt aviation across Europe for a second week. Read the full story here.

New bomb threats targeted multiple flights to and from Prague and Sofia on Friday (Nov 03), authorities said, extending a week of hoax alerts that has disrupted commercial aviation across Europe. Four arriving flights at Prague airport and five departing flights were targeted, AFP reported, citing airport spokesperson Denisa Hejtmankova. "The threats concern incoming flights from Denmark, Great Britain and two from Spain," she said. "As for outgoing flights, it's flights to the Netherlands, Cyprus, Romania, Italy and Great Britain." Prague airport spokesperson Jiri Hannich told AFP that "airport operation remains standard and smooth" despite the threats. Czech police had already checked four planes following threats on Thursday. Also read | Shakahola massacre: Kenyan doomsday cult leader Paul Mackenzie sentenced to 200 years for murder of 190 children, 1 adult Sofia and Lisbon also hit A Bulgarian transport ministry spokesperson told AFP that alerts were received for two flights to Sofia on Friday. Both flights, arriving from London Stansted in Britain and from Brussels, landed safely. Portuguese police said a Ryanair flight scheduled to depart from Lisbon to Rome was also targeted. Also read | 'No': UK PM Andy Burnham rules out inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to G20 summit. Here's why Plane bombs: A week of false alarms Dozens of commercial flights in Europe have been targeted by false alarms this week, forcing authorities to reroute some planes or escort civilian aircraft with fighter jets. This was the fourth day of hoax bomb alerts across Europe. Previously, on Thursday, about 20 commercial flights were hit by the bomb threat hoax. The hoaxes particularly targeted low-cost carriers and flights to or from Bulgaria, Czech Republic and Italy. No claim of responsibility was made for any of the flights, but threats against flights sent to airports in Rome and Sofia, seen by AFP, contained misogynistic messages and claimed to be from "fighters of the Male State".

Fresh bomb threats have targeted nine flights to and from Prague and two arriving in Sofia, with a Ryanair flight from Lisbon also hit, as hoax alerts disrupt aviation across Europe for a second week. Read the full story here.

Fresh bomb threats hit at least 9 flights; Prague, Lisbon and Sofia flights affected as hoax alerts sweep Europe

Asian markets fell sharply on Friday, November 6, extending a Wall Street rout of Thursday driven by fears that the Democratic midterm sweep, a policy stalemate and a widespread data centre moratorium in the US will slow down the AI boom.&nbsp; Japan's Nikkei closed down 5.96%, or 3,643 points, at 57,435, its fifth straight fall. It has lost more than 7,200 points in five sessions, its worst week since 2020. The broader TOPIX fell 5.9%, with all 33 sectors lower. South Korea's Kospi dropped more than 8% at the open, triggering a 20-minute circuit breaker, then was reported near 5,060, down about 6%. Taiwan fell more than 8% at one point. AI-linked stocks took the heaviest hits. Samsung Electronics fell nearly 10% and SK Hynix about 12%. Kioxia dropped 14%, TSMC fell as much as 8.5%, and SoftBank slid 11%, with the cost of insuring its debt reaching a four-year high. Australia's ASX 200 slipped 0.5% to 9,020.80.<h2>Following the Wall Street lead</h2>Democrats won both the House and the Senate this week, and investors worry the new Congress will bring tougher oversight and limits on data-centre construction. On Thursday, the Nasdaq composite fell 5.5%, its steepest drop since the April 2025 tariff sell-off, leaving it 12% below its record close a month ago. The Nasdaq 100 lost 6.3%, or about $2.5 trillion, and the Philadelphia chip index slid 12.2%. About $3 trillion was wiped off S&amp;P 500 companies. The VIX, Wall Street’s primary "fear gauge" used to measure expected stock market volatility, rose to 28.18, its biggest jump since April 2025.<h2>India found optimism in global AI rout</h2>Indian market was surprisingly resilient to the slide due to negligible exposure to AI and semiconductor stocks. After opening flat, the Sensex rose 1,025 points, or 1.29%, to 80,335 by early afternoon, and the Nifty gained more than 200 points to near 24,745. That extends Thursday's rally, when the Sensex jumped 2.6% and the Nifty 2.4%. The Nifty IT index rose 1% to 2%, and Mahindra &amp; Mahindra gained about 5%. Brent crude hovered near $100 a barrel. In Europe, the Stoxx 600 fell about 1.2%, and Euro Stoxx 50 futures were down 1%. US Dow futures were down about 1%, while Nasdaq 100 futures gained 0.9% to 1.4% as dip buyers returned. Gold hovered near $4,100 an ounce.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/diwali-2026-israel-us-australia-leaders-celebrations-1793959614715">Diwali 2026: Israel, US, Australia leaders join celebrations, send greetings to India</a><h2>US midterms hint at clear disdain for data centres</h2>The fears have a basis in how US citizens voted on Tuesday. Voters in 10 states decided 41 local data-centre measures, and nearly all went against the industry, according to Ballotpedia and CNBC.&nbsp;Ohio alone had 21, and more than half of the measures began as citizen initiatives. At least 14 municipalities passed outright bans or severe restrictions, including Sunbury, effectively stalling a proposed $2 billion Amazon data centre projectVoters in Emporia, Kansas, Alhambra, Maine and California, backed a ban on data centre construction. Joliet, Illinois, voted nearly 80% to restrict data centres. Bloomington, Illinois, backed an advisory moratorium with 78%. The industry's one clear win was Harwood, North Dakota, where 75% of 430 voters rejected an added review of large industrial projects. Voters in Wilmington, Ohio, also supported rezoning land for a data centre. In a CNBC voter poll, 56% said data centres were a crucial or major factor in their vote.

Asian markets plunge as AI stocks slide following US midterm results, with investors fearing tougher data centre regulations and increased scrutiny.

Asian markets fell sharply on Friday, November 6, extending a Wall Street rout of Thursday driven by fears that the Democratic midterm sweep, a policy stalemate and a widespread data centre moratorium in the US will slow down the AI boom. Japan's Nikkei closed down 5.96%, or 3,643 points, at 57,435, its fifth straight fall. It has lost more than 7,200 points in five sessions, its worst week since 2020. The broader TOPIX fell 5.9%, with all 33 sectors lower. South Korea's Kospi dropped more than 8% at the open, triggering a 20-minute circuit breaker, then was reported near 5,060, down about 6%. Taiwan fell more than 8% at one point. AI-linked stocks took the heaviest hits. Samsung Electronics fell nearly 10% and SK Hynix about 12%. Kioxia dropped 14%, TSMC fell as much as 8.5%, and SoftBank slid 11%, with the cost of insuring its debt reaching a four-year high. Australia's ASX 200 slipped 0.5% to 9,020.80. Following the Wall Street lead Democrats won both the House and the Senate this week, and investors worry the new Congress will bring tougher oversight and limits on data-centre construction. On Thursday, the Nasdaq composite fell 5.5%, its steepest drop since the April 2025 tariff sell-off, leaving it 12% below its record close a month ago. The Nasdaq 100 lost 6.3%, or about $2.5 trillion, and the Philadelphia chip index slid 12.2%. About $3 trillion was wiped off S&P 500 companies. The VIX, Wall Street’s primary "fear gauge" used to measure expected stock market volatility, rose to 28.18, its biggest jump since April 2025. India found optimism in global AI rout Indian market was surprisingly resilient to the slide due to negligible exposure to AI and semiconductor stocks. After opening flat, the Sensex rose 1,025 points, or 1.29%, to 80,335 by early afternoon, and the Nifty gained more than 200 points to near 24,745. That extends Thursday's rally, when the Sensex jumped 2.6% and the Nifty 2.4%. The Nifty IT index rose 1% to 2%, and Mahindra & Mahindra gained about 5%. Brent crude hovered near $100 a barrel. In Europe, the Stoxx 600 fell about 1.2%, and Euro Stoxx 50 futures were down 1%. US Dow futures were down about 1%, while Nasdaq 100 futures gained 0.9% to 1.4% as dip buyers returned. Gold hovered near $4,100 an ounce. Also Read: Diwali 2026: Israel, US, Australia leaders join celebrations, send greetings to India US midterms hint at clear disdain for data centres The fears have a basis in how US citizens voted on Tuesday. Voters in 10 states decided 41 local data-centre measures, and nearly all went against the industry, according to Ballotpedia and CNBC. Ohio alone had 21, and more than half of the measures began as citizen initiatives. At least 14 municipalities passed outright bans or severe restrictions, including Sunbury, effectively stalling a proposed $2 billion Amazon data centre project Voters in Emporia, Kansas, Alhambra, Maine and California, backed a ban on data centre construction. Joliet, Illinois, voted nearly 80% to restrict data centres. Bloomington, Illinois, backed an advisory moratorium with 78%. The industry's one clear win was Harwood, North Dakota, where 75% of 430 voters rejected an added review of large industrial projects. Voters in Wilmington, Ohio, also supported rezoning land for a data centre. In a CNBC voter poll, 56% said data centres were a crucial or major factor in their vote.

Asian markets plunge as AI stocks slide following US midterm results, with investors fearing tougher data centre regulations and increased scrutiny.

Nikkei plunges nearly 6%, Kospi triggers circuit breaker amid global AI sell-off

An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.1 struck eastern Japan near Tokyo on Friday (Nov 06), the Japan Meteorological Agency said. At the time of this report's publication, no tsunami warning had been issued. The shallow quake hit at 7:39 pm (1039 GMT) in the sea off the coast of the country's Kanto region, the Japan Meteorological Agency said on its website. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.<h2>What is known so far</h2>- Magnitude: 6.1 - Location: Eastern Japan, near Tokyo - Reported by: Japan Meteorological AgencyAlso read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-uk-pm-andy-burnham-rules-out-inviting-russian-counterpart-vladimir-putin-to-g20-summit-cites-sanctions-1793883705290">'No': UK PM Andy Burnham rules out inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to G20 summit. Here's why</a>The earthquake's epicentre was about 169 kilometres (105 miles) southeast of Asahi, which is just east of the capital Tokyo, according to the United States Geological Survey.The JMA reported a "seismic intensity 3" on Japan's 0-7 scale, indicating that "nearly all individuals indoors experience the tremor" and "dishes on shelves might rattle."Japan is among the world’s most earthquake-prone nations, sitting at the junction of four major tectonic plates along the Pacific Ring of Fire. The archipelago sees around 1,500 quakes every year, most of them mild but not always harmless.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/florida-s-own-jaws-moment-bull-shark-spotted-swimming-flooded-neighbourhood-video-goes-viral-watch-1793874472651">Florida's own 'Jaws' moment? Bull Shark spotted swimming flooded neighbourhood, video goes viral | WATCH</a>&nbsp;

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake has struck eastern Japan near Tokyo, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Details on the epicentre, depth and any damage are still emerging. Read the full story here.

An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.1 struck eastern Japan near Tokyo on Friday (Nov 06), the Japan Meteorological Agency said. At the time of this report's publication, no tsunami warning had been issued. The shallow quake hit at 7:39 pm (1039 GMT) in the sea off the coast of the country's Kanto region, the Japan Meteorological Agency said on its website. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. What is known so far - Magnitude: 6.1 - Location: Eastern Japan, near Tokyo - Reported by: Japan Meteorological Agency Also read | 'No': UK PM Andy Burnham rules out inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to G20 summit. Here's why The earthquake's epicentre was about 169 kilometres (105 miles) southeast of Asahi, which is just east of the capital Tokyo, according to the United States Geological Survey. The JMA reported a "seismic intensity 3" on Japan's 0-7 scale, indicating that "nearly all individuals indoors experience the tremor" and "dishes on shelves might rattle." Japan is among the world’s most earthquake-prone nations, sitting at the junction of four major tectonic plates along the Pacific Ring of Fire. The archipelago sees around 1,500 quakes every year, most of them mild but not always harmless. Also read | Florida's own 'Jaws' moment? Bull Shark spotted swimming flooded neighbourhood, video goes viral | WATCH

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake has struck eastern Japan near Tokyo, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Details on the epicentre, depth and any damage are still emerging. Read the full story here.

Magnitude 6.1 earthquake strikes eastern Japan near Tokyo, JMA says

Canada's Liberal government has put economic independence at the centre of its second budget. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne tabled Masters of Our Destiny in the House of Commons on Thursday, with the aim of attracting worldwide business investors and building major projects faster, reducing the nation's reliance on the United States. There are investments for affordability, essential measures to help Canadians meet ends as well as investments for security and Canadian arts and culture.<h2>What is in the budget?</h2>The plan sets out $142 billion in new spending over five years. On top of $9.5 billion since the spring economic update. Its central goal is to double exports to non-US markets by 2035. More than three-quarters of Canadian exports still go south. To bridge this, Ottawa will back ports, corridors and Arctic infrastructure through a $5 billion trade diversification fund and a $1 billion Arctic fund. It will also expand financing for exporters. More than $50 billion is earmarked to expand the electricity grid. The government also wants 70% of military contracts to go to Canadian firms.&nbsp;The deficit is projected at $62.3 billion this year, about $3 billion below the spring forecast. Stronger revenue and tighter operating spending created the room for new spending. The budget also adds $22 billion in affordability measures, including a one-time top-up to the grocery and essentials benefit. Growth is forecast at just 1% in 2026. The federal prohibition on foreign purchases of existing residential properties has been extended to January 1, 2029.Champagne said a stronger Canada is a better Canada "at any negotiating table." Dominic LeBlanc, the minister responsible for US trade, said tariff talks will remain with the White House, not Congress, despite Republican losses in this week's midterms. Canada withdrew from trade talks in August.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/abdul-el-sayed-investigate-rfk-jr-cyclospora-outbreak-michigan-1793948909971">El-Sayed seeks probe into RFK Jr. over 'anti-science' approach after cyclospora outbreak</a>The budget drew mixed reaction; NDP Leader Avi Lewis said sovereignty cannot be built on tax cuts for big business. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said the first job should be saving Canadians money. Social-sector groups said their asks were largely ignored.<h2>Why is Canada seeking to break free of US dependence?</h2>During Trump's second term, Canada has seen layered tariffs on its businesses. The trade war remains active following a collapse in bilateral trade talks in August 2026, which prompted Trump to impose 50% tariffs and various import embargoes. The Carney government notes that it has set aside nearly C$44 billion in ongoing support for workers and businesses hit by US tariffs.&nbsp;Apart from this, the US has on several occasions floated the idea of Canada as the "51st state" and Carney &nbsp;as “governor.”The pressure reached inside Canada. Alberta held a referendum on October 19 on whether to start a process toward a binding independence vote. Roughly three-quarters of voters chose to remain in Canada. Separatist and MAGA groups reported meeting with a US firm with government ties to help build a voter database. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested oil-rich Alberta consider joining the US. Roughly three-quarters of voters chose to remain in Canada in the polling last month, quelling sustained polling support for independence.

Canada's $142 billion budget seeks to diversify exports, strengthen domestic industries and reduce dependence on the US amid Trump's trade war.

Canada's Liberal government has put economic independence at the centre of its second budget. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne tabled Masters of Our Destiny in the House of Commons on Thursday, with the aim of attracting worldwide business investors and building major projects faster, reducing the nation's reliance on the United States. There are investments for affordability, essential measures to help Canadians meet ends as well as investments for security and Canadian arts and culture. What is in the budget? The plan sets out $142 billion in new spending over five years. On top of $9.5 billion since the spring economic update. Its central goal is to double exports to non-US markets by 2035. More than three-quarters of Canadian exports still go south. To bridge this, Ottawa will back ports, corridors and Arctic infrastructure through a $5 billion trade diversification fund and a $1 billion Arctic fund. It will also expand financing for exporters. More than $50 billion is earmarked to expand the electricity grid. The government also wants 70% of military contracts to go to Canadian firms. The deficit is projected at $62.3 billion this year, about $3 billion below the spring forecast. Stronger revenue and tighter operating spending created the room for new spending. The budget also adds $22 billion in affordability measures, including a one-time top-up to the grocery and essentials benefit. Growth is forecast at just 1% in 2026. The federal prohibition on foreign purchases of existing residential properties has been extended to January 1, 2029. Champagne said a stronger Canada is a better Canada "at any negotiating table." Dominic LeBlanc, the minister responsible for US trade, said tariff talks will remain with the White House, not Congress, despite Republican losses in this week's midterms. Canada withdrew from trade talks in August. Also Read: El-Sayed seeks probe into RFK Jr. over 'anti-science' approach after cyclospora outbreak The budget drew mixed reaction; NDP Leader Avi Lewis said sovereignty cannot be built on tax cuts for big business. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said the first job should be saving Canadians money. Social-sector groups said their asks were largely ignored. Why is Canada seeking to break free of US dependence? During Trump's second term, Canada has seen layered tariffs on its businesses. The trade war remains active following a collapse in bilateral trade talks in August 2026, which prompted Trump to impose 50% tariffs and various import embargoes. The Carney government notes that it has set aside nearly C$44 billion in ongoing support for workers and businesses hit by US tariffs. Apart from this, the US has on several occasions floated the idea of Canada as the "51st state" and Carney as “governor.”The pressure reached inside Canada. Alberta held a referendum on October 19 on whether to start a process toward a binding independence vote. Roughly three-quarters of voters chose to remain in Canada. Separatist and MAGA groups reported meeting with a US firm with government ties to help build a voter database. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested oil-rich Alberta consider joining the US. Roughly three-quarters of voters chose to remain in Canada in the polling last month, quelling sustained polling support for independence.

Canada's $142 billion budget seeks to diversify exports, strengthen domestic industries and reduce dependence on the US amid Trump's trade war.

Canada seeks economic independence from US with $142 billion budget

Michigan senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed, who made history as the first Muslim elected to the US Senate, has responded to criticism over claims that he supports introducing Sharia law in the country with a joke about shawarma.&nbsp;El-Sayed, 42, was born in Rochester Hills, Michigan, to Egyptian immigrant parents and grew up in the Detroit area. A physician and former public health official, he won Michigan's Senate race in the November 3 midterm elections.&nbsp;Addressing his opponents at a campaign stop in Macomb County earlier this week, El-Sayed dismissed the claims and said he supported "shawarma law" instead.&nbsp;"Do not believe the people who say I'm for Sharia law, I'm for shawarma law," he told reporters.He then explained his version of the rules, saying: “If you get a shawarma and it's got lettuce in it, it's not shawarma, it's just a sandwich. Someone has lied to you.”&nbsp;El-Sayed's remarks have since sparked reactions on social media, with users making jokes about alternative versions of the phrase, including "Shakira law" and "Shania law", referring to Colombian singer Shakira and country-pop star Shania Twain.&nbsp;The joke was aimed at people expressing concerns that Muslim politicians could introduce religious laws in the country.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Yasssss 🤣🤣🤣😭😭😭

&quot;Do not believe the people who say I'm for Sharia law, I'm for Shawarma Law, okay? And I just want to explain what the tenets of Shawarma Law are: If you get a shawarma, and it's got lettuce in it, it's not a shawarma, it's just a sandwich.&quot; https://t.co/NxtSwh4WDr&mdash; Elizabeth (@alluringmedia) <a href="https://x.com/alluringmedia/status/2117056483380666757?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>El-Sayed recommends his favourite shawarma shop</h3>The senator-elect also used the occasion to recommend Amo Samis, a Detroit-area shawarma restaurant known for its crispy wraps, pickles and signature serving of toum, a garlic sauce.&nbsp;The restaurant began as a food truck before expanding to several storefront locations.&nbsp;"It's gonna change your life," El-Sayed said while recommending the eatery.

Michigan senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed has mocked criticism over claims that he supports Sharia law, joking that he favours "shawarma law" instead.

Michigan senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed, who made history as the first Muslim elected to the US Senate, has responded to criticism over claims that he supports introducing Sharia law in the country with a joke about shawarma. El-Sayed, 42, was born in Rochester Hills, Michigan, to Egyptian immigrant parents and grew up in the Detroit area. A physician and former public health official, he won Michigan's Senate race in the November 3 midterm elections. Addressing his opponents at a campaign stop in Macomb County earlier this week, El-Sayed dismissed the claims and said he supported "shawarma law" instead. "Do not believe the people who say I'm for Sharia law, I'm for shawarma law," he told reporters. He then explained his version of the rules, saying: “If you get a shawarma and it's got lettuce in it, it's not shawarma, it's just a sandwich. Someone has lied to you.” El-Sayed's remarks have since sparked reactions on social media, with users making jokes about alternative versions of the phrase, including "Shakira law" and "Shania law", referring to Colombian singer Shakira and country-pop star Shania Twain. The joke was aimed at people expressing concerns that Muslim politicians could introduce religious laws in the country.

Michigan senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed has mocked criticism over claims that he supports Sharia law, joking that he favours "shawarma law" instead.

'Shawarma law, not Sharia law': Abdul El-Sayed's joke goes viral after historic Senate win | Video

China has recorded a sharp fall in marriage registrations in the first nine months of 2026, raising fresh concerns about its already declining birth rate that could add to the worsening population crisis.&nbsp;The country registered 4.648 million marriages between January and September, a drop of 504,000 or 9.8 per cent compared with the same period last year, according to data released by the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the South China Morning Post reported. Around 2.08 million couples also divorced during this period, Reuters reported.&nbsp;The latest figures mark a setback after marriage registrations briefly recovered in 2025.<h3>Falling marriages add to birth rate concerns</h3>The decline has raised concerns about a further fall in births in China, which is already facing a shrinking population and an ageing society.&nbsp;China recorded 7.92 million births in 2025, down 17 per cent from 9.54 million in 2024, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. The birth rate dropped to 5.63 per 1,000 people, the lowest since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949.&nbsp;The country's population also fell by 3.39 million to around 1.405 billion in 2025, marking its fourth consecutive annual decline.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-love-this-city-nithya-raman-reacts-after-historic-los-angeles-mayoral-victory-1793946672964">‘This city has opened its arms’: Nithya Raman's emotional reaction after becoming LA mayor | Video</a>&nbsp;The outlook remains challenging, with the number of women aged 15 to 49, considered to be of reproductive age by the United Nations, projected to fall by more than two-thirds to fewer than 100 million by the end of the century, Reuters reported.&nbsp;The Chinese government has introduced childcare subsidies, expanded preschool support and other incentives to encourage couples to marry and have children.&nbsp;However, rising living costs and changing attitudes towards marriage and family life continue to pose challenges to these efforts.

China's marriage registrations declined nearly 10 per cent in the first nine months of 2026, adding to concerns over falling births and the country's shrinking population.

China has recorded a sharp fall in marriage registrations in the first nine months of 2026, raising fresh concerns about its already declining birth rate that could add to the worsening population crisis. The country registered 4.648 million marriages between January and September, a drop of 504,000 or 9.8 per cent compared with the same period last year, according to data released by the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the South China Morning Post reported. Around 2.08 million couples also divorced during this period, Reuters reported. The latest figures mark a setback after marriage registrations briefly recovered in 2025. Falling marriages add to birth rate concerns The decline has raised concerns about a further fall in births in China, which is already facing a shrinking population and an ageing society. China recorded 7.92 million births in 2025, down 17 per cent from 9.54 million in 2024, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. The birth rate dropped to 5.63 per 1,000 people, the lowest since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. The country's population also fell by 3.39 million to around 1.405 billion in 2025, marking its fourth consecutive annual decline. Also Read: ‘This city has opened its arms’: Nithya Raman's emotional reaction after becoming LA mayor | Video The outlook remains challenging, with the number of women aged 15 to 49, considered to be of reproductive age by the United Nations, projected to fall by more than two-thirds to fewer than 100 million by the end of the century, Reuters reported. The Chinese government has introduced childcare subsidies, expanded preschool support and other incentives to encourage couples to marry and have children. However, rising living costs and changing attitudes towards marriage and family life continue to pose challenges to these efforts.

China's marriage registrations declined nearly 10 per cent in the first nine months of 2026, adding to concerns over falling births and the country's shrinking population.

China's marriage numbers fall nearly 10% in 2026, raising fears of further birth decline

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Thursday designating the Oval Office, the Outer Oval Office and the Cabinet Room as a national monument and federal landmark. The stated aim is to preserve the spaces and stop future administrations from altering them. It was his first official action after his party was swept aside in Tuesday's midterm elections. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump described the move in sweeping terms. He said the rooms would not be able to be taken down, destroyed or touched. He also said he would send the designation to Congress to be ratified, and that major modifications would need congressional approval.US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has dismissed reports that he is planning to leave President Donald Trump's administration amid speculation that he could leave the cabinet to enter the 2028 presidential race. In an interview with The New York Times on Thursday, Rubio said he intended to remain in the administration until the end of Trump's term."It has always been my plan" to work for Trump until the end of his term, he said.Delhi's overall air quality worsened on Friday morning and remained in the "very poor" category, while many parts of the national capital reeled under "severe" levels of pollution, according to official data. The city's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 391 (very poor) at 9 a.m., as per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). On Thursday, the 24-hour average AQI was 369 (very poor) at 4 p.m., slightly down from 377 (very poor) a day earlier, according to the CPCB's daily bulletin, which is treated as the day's AQI. A higher AQI indicates worsening air quality. Stay with us for the latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

US President Donald Trump held a phone call with Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on Friday, 6 November 2026. The two leaders discussed diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions.The official text notes that any viable solution must explicitly "guarantee freedom of navigation and the security of energy supplies". Sheikh Tamim specifically stressed the absolute necessity for continued dialogue and diplomatic solutions to "spare the region further escalation".

US President Trump calls Qatar's Emir Al Thani on Iran war

In a state struggling to secure enough water for its villages and farms, Maharashtra is turning its attention to structures built centuries ago. The government is planning to bring 75 historic stepwells back into use, hoping that these forgotten water repositories can become part of its response to recurring drought. The initiative seeks to give a practical purpose to traditional water infrastructure that has gradually disappeared from everyday use.The proposed restoration will focus on stepwells, locally called baravs, which were once important sources of water for communities across the state.The first phase is estimated to involve an investment of Rs 25 crore. The Cultural Affairs Department has asked officials from seven Archaeology Department divisions to identify suitable structures and prepare restoration proposals.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-looks-to-forgotten-water-architecture-as-drought-deepens-1793947027441">Read more</a>

Maharashtra looks to forgotten water architecture as drought deepens

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has dismissed reports that he is planning to leave President Donald Trump's administration amid speculation that he could leave the cabinet to enter the 2028 presidential race. In an interview with The New York Times on Thursday, Rubio said he intended to remain in the administration until the end of Trump's term."It has always been my plan" to work for Trump until the end of his term, he said. Responding to reports that he was considering stepping down, Rubio added: "I don't know where these things come from, to be honest with you." He also declined to discuss his political ambitions for 2028, saying: "I literally will not talk about 2028 anymore." The State Department also rejected the reports. Dylan Johnson, Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs, described a Bloomberg News report about Rubio weighing his exit as "totally made up".&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/marco-rubio-denies-exit-plans-after-report-puts-him-on-resignation-watch-over-2028-presidential-bid-1793950100693">Read more</a>

Marco Rubio denies exit plans after report puts him on resignation watch over 2028 presidential bid

Michigan Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed wants to investigate Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over an explosive diarrhoea parasite linked to lettuce that infected thousands over the summer. Asked on CNN whether he wants to investigate the HHS secretary specifically, El-Sayed said yes, and that he wants to understand the decisions behind what has happened. He criticised what he called Kennedy's "anti-science" approach and said it was not about retribution, but about accountability and fixing problems going forward.The senator-elect pointed to staffing cuts at the FDA and CDC, which he said may have weakened responses to foodborne outbreaks and recalls, including this summer's Cyclospora outbreak.“This is not about retribution for something past,” El-Sayed told anchor Kate Bolduan. “This is about understanding what happened, holding people accountable for what they did and then solving the problem moving forward.”Michigan suffered the worst Cyclospora outbreak, with more than 15,000 cases reported to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services by late August.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/abdul-el-sayed-investigate-rfk-jr-cyclospora-outbreak-michigan-1793948909971">Read more</a>

El-Sayed seeks probe into RFK Jr. over 'anti-science' approach after cyclospora outbreak

China has recorded a sharp fall in marriage registrations in the first nine months of 2026, raising fresh concerns about its already declining birth rate that could add to the worsening population crisis. The country registered 4.648 million marriages between January and September, a drop of 504,000 or 9.8 per cent compared with the same period last year, according to data released by the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the South China Morning Post reported. Around 2.08 million couples also divorced during this period, Reuters reported. The latest figures mark a setback after marriage registrations briefly recovered in 2025.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-s-marriage-numbers-fall-nearly-10-in-2026-raising-fears-of-further-birth-decline-1793953328963">Read more</a>

The World Gold Council reports that gold prices are approaching a potential bottom, with overall market conditions favouring a price turnaround despite the recent dip. The council noted that two of the three historical conditions associated with gold price recoveries are already in place.The WGC said the current decline is more likely to be a correction than the start of a prolonged downturn similar to the one after 2011, as the macroeconomic and fundamental backdrop remains considerably stronger. "Unlike in 2011, the macro backdrop supports a recovery," the report said.Gold closed October at USD 3,913 per ounce, down 6.3 per cent during the month, with prices falling across all major currencies tracked by the council. The metal is currently about 25 per cent below its January 2026 record high of USD 5,405 per ounce.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gold-nears-interim-bottom-despite-recent-correction-says-world-gold-council-1793944595403">Read more</a>

Get the latest breaking updates: Trump designates Oval Office a landmark, Marco Rubio denies leaving cabinet, and Delhi air quality slips into severe levels.

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Thursday designating the Oval Office, the Outer Oval Office and the Cabinet Room as a national monument and federal landmark. The stated aim is to preserve the spaces and stop future administrations from altering them. It was his first official action after his party was swept aside in Tuesday's midterm elections. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump described the move in sweeping terms. He said the rooms would not be able to be taken down, destroyed or touched. He also said he would send the designation to Congress to be ratified, and that major modifications would need congressional approval. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has dismissed reports that he is planning to leave President Donald Trump's administration amid speculation that he could leave the cabinet to enter the 2028 presidential race. In an interview with The New York Times on Thursday, Rubio said he intended to remain in the administration until the end of Trump's term. "It has always been my plan" to work for Trump until the end of his term, he said. Delhi's overall air quality worsened on Friday morning and remained in the "very poor" category, while many parts of the national capital reeled under "severe" levels of pollution, according to official data. The city's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 391 (very poor) at 9 a.m., as per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). On Thursday, the 24-hour average AQI was 369 (very poor) at 4 p.m., slightly down from 377 (very poor) a day earlier, according to the CPCB's daily bulletin, which is treated as the day's AQI. A higher AQI indicates worsening air quality. Stay with us for the latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Get the latest breaking updates: Trump designates Oval Office a landmark, Marco Rubio denies leaving cabinet, and Delhi air quality slips into severe levels.

Latest News India and World LIVE updates:  Trump declares Oval office a national monument; Rubio rejects Resignation rumors, Delhi AQI worsens

Michigan Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed wants to investigate Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over an explosive diarrhoea parasite linked to lettuce that infected thousands over the summer. Asked on CNN whether he wants to investigate the HHS secretary specifically, El-Sayed said yes, and that he wants to understand the decisions behind what has happened. He criticised what he called Kennedy's "anti-science" approach and said it was not about retribution, but about accountability and fixing problems going forward. &nbsp; The senator-elect pointed to staffing cuts at the FDA and CDC, which he said may have weakened responses to foodborne outbreaks and recalls, including this summer's Cyclospora outbreak.“This is not about retribution for something past,” El-Sayed told anchor Kate Bolduan. “This is about understanding what happened, holding people accountable for what they did and then solving the problem moving forward.”Michigan suffered the worst Cyclospora outbreak, with more than 15,000 cases reported to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services by late August.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-fire-gaffar-market-karol-bagh-shops-damaged-1793939898136">40-45 shops damaged in massive blaze at Karol Bagh's Gaffar Market</a>El-Sayed had already clashed in the final days of the race. Kennedy, who appeared at a Michigan rally with Republican nominee Mike Rogers, claimed that Arabs "don't produce science" or literature. El-Sayed, who is of Egyptian descent, responded by calling Kennedy "the most unqualified health secretary we've ever had" and said he would seek to investigate his performance if elected. Trump and Rogers also attacked El-Sayed during the campaign, and Rogers suggested he had extreme ties without offering evidence.&nbsp; El-Sayed, an epidemiologist and former Wayne County health director, defeated Rogers in a bitter campaign for the open seat. His campaign was backed by a pro-science PAC that has criticised the administration's health policies.&nbsp; Kennedy has tried to reduce the number of universally recommended childhood vaccines and replaced members of a federal vaccine advisory committee with vaccine sceptics. It is not yet clear which committees El-Sayed will join or whether Democrats will control the chamber, which will decide whether he can open an inquiry himself or only press for one.

Michigan Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed wants to investigate RFK Jr. over the Cyclospora outbreak that infected more than 15,000 people in Michigan.

Michigan Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed wants to investigate Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over an explosive diarrhoea parasite linked to lettuce that infected thousands over the summer. Asked on CNN whether he wants to investigate the HHS secretary specifically, El-Sayed said yes, and that he wants to understand the decisions behind what has happened. He criticised what he called Kennedy's "anti-science" approach and said it was not about retribution, but about accountability and fixing problems going forward. The senator-elect pointed to staffing cuts at the FDA and CDC, which he said may have weakened responses to foodborne outbreaks and recalls, including this summer's Cyclospora outbreak. “This is not about retribution for something past,” El-Sayed told anchor Kate Bolduan. “This is about understanding what happened, holding people accountable for what they did and then solving the problem moving forward.” Michigan suffered the worst Cyclospora outbreak, with more than 15,000 cases reported to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services by late August. Also Read: 40-45 shops damaged in massive blaze at Karol Bagh's Gaffar Market El-Sayed had already clashed in the final days of the race. Kennedy, who appeared at a Michigan rally with Republican nominee Mike Rogers, claimed that Arabs "don't produce science" or literature. El-Sayed, who is of Egyptian descent, responded by calling Kennedy "the most unqualified health secretary we've ever had" and said he would seek to investigate his performance if elected. Trump and Rogers also attacked El-Sayed during the campaign, and Rogers suggested he had extreme ties without offering evidence. El-Sayed, an epidemiologist and former Wayne County health director, defeated Rogers in a bitter campaign for the open seat. His campaign was backed by a pro-science PAC that has criticised the administration's health policies. Kennedy has tried to reduce the number of universally recommended childhood vaccines and replaced members of a federal vaccine advisory committee with vaccine sceptics. It is not yet clear which committees El-Sayed will join or whether Democrats will control the chamber, which will decide whether he can open an inquiry himself or only press for one.

Michigan Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed wants to investigate RFK Jr. over the Cyclospora outbreak that infected more than 15,000 people in Michigan.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has dismissed reports that he is planning to leave President Donald Trump's administration amid speculation that he could leave the cabinet to enter the 2028 presidential race.&nbsp;In an interview with The New York Times on Thursday, Rubio said he intended to remain in the administration until the end of Trump's term.&nbsp;"It has always been my plan" to work for Trump until the end of his term, he said.&nbsp;Responding to reports that he was considering stepping down, Rubio added: "I don't know where these things come from, to be honest with you."&nbsp;He also declined to discuss his political ambitions for 2028, saying: "I literally will not talk about 2028 anymore."&nbsp;The State Department also rejected the reports. Dylan Johnson, Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs, described a Bloomberg News report about Rubio weighing his exit as "totally made up".&nbsp;He also dismissed The Independent's report about Rubio preparing a 2028 presidential bid as "completely baseless fake news".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-love-this-city-nithya-raman-reacts-after-historic-los-angeles-mayoral-victory-1793946672964">‘This city has opened its arms’: Nithya Raman's emotional reaction after becoming LA mayor | Video</a>&nbsp;<h3>Why is Rubio on resignation watch?</h3>Speculation about Rubio's future has intensified following the Republicans' rout in Tuesday's midterm elections, in which Democrats won control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate.&nbsp;The Independent reported that Rubio was on resignation watch on both sides of the Atlantic, with expectations that he could quit his senior positions to launch a bid for the Republican presidential nomination in November 2028.&nbsp;According to the report, senior Republican sources in the US and senior figures in the UK government believed Rubio could leave the administration even before the midterm results.&nbsp;Rubio, who also serves as Trump's national security adviser, is considered a potential Republican contender for 2028, with Vice President JD Vance seen as another possible candidate.&nbsp;Days before the midterm elections, Rubio made an unusual appearance alongside Trump at a campaign rally, briefly addressing the cheering crowd from the podium.&nbsp;He has previously said he would support Vance if the vice president decided to run for president.

Marco Rubio has dismissed reports that he could quit the Trump administration to prepare for a 2028 presidential bid, even as the Republican midterm rout fuels speculation about his political future.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has dismissed reports that he is planning to leave President Donald Trump's administration amid speculation that he could leave the cabinet to enter the 2028 presidential race. In an interview with The New York Times on Thursday, Rubio said he intended to remain in the administration until the end of Trump's term. "It has always been my plan" to work for Trump until the end of his term, he said. Responding to reports that he was considering stepping down, Rubio added: "I don't know where these things come from, to be honest with you." He also declined to discuss his political ambitions for 2028, saying: "I literally will not talk about 2028 anymore." The State Department also rejected the reports. Dylan Johnson, Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs, described a Bloomberg News report about Rubio weighing his exit as "totally made up". He also dismissed The Independent's report about Rubio preparing a 2028 presidential bid as "completely baseless fake news". Also Read: ‘This city has opened its arms’: Nithya Raman's emotional reaction after becoming LA mayor | Video Why is Rubio on resignation watch? Speculation about Rubio's future has intensified following the Republicans' rout in Tuesday's midterm elections, in which Democrats won control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The Independent reported that Rubio was on resignation watch on both sides of the Atlantic, with expectations that he could quit his senior positions to launch a bid for the Republican presidential nomination in November 2028. According to the report, senior Republican sources in the US and senior figures in the UK government believed Rubio could leave the administration even before the midterm results. Rubio, who also serves as Trump's national security adviser, is considered a potential Republican contender for 2028, with Vice President JD Vance seen as another possible candidate. Days before the midterm elections, Rubio made an unusual appearance alongside Trump at a campaign rally, briefly addressing the cheering crowd from the podium. He has previously said he would support Vance if the vice president decided to run for president.

Marco Rubio has dismissed reports that he could quit the Trump administration to prepare for a 2028 presidential bid, even as the Republican midterm rout fuels speculation about his political future.

Nithya Raman, set to become the next mayor of Los Angeles, said she loved the city and believed in its people after defeating incumbent Karen Bass in the mayoral election.&nbsp;Speaking at the Original Farmers Market, Raman said, “This city has given me and my family so much — and at a time when the federal government, over the past two years … has rejected immigrants.”&nbsp;“This city has opened its arms to people to come and build their dreams here,” she added&nbsp;Raman's victory makes her the first challenger to defeat an incumbent Los Angeles mayor in more than two decades. She is also set to become the city's first Indian-American and South Asian mayor.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">LA’s Mayor-ELECT Nithya Raman: ‘I AM AN IMMIGRANT — THIS IS A CITY OF IMMIGRANTS’ https://t.co/B0QUL7iQ2p&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://x.com/RT_com/status/2118542091873849594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Thank you, LA: Raman's first post after victory</h3>In her first post on X after the victory, Raman said she was deeply honoured to become the next mayor of Los Angeles. She also acknowledged Bass's decades of public service.&nbsp;“Los Angeles, I am deeply honoured to be your next mayor. I just spoke with Mayor Bass and expressed my deepest gratitude for her leadership and decades of service. Los Angeles would not be the city it is today without her,” she wrote.&nbsp;Raman said the work ahead would be difficult but expressed confidence in the city's future.&nbsp;“I love this city. I believe in its people. The work ahead will be hard, and change will take time. And together, we are going to build a future as extraordinary as the city we call home. Thank you, LA. Let's get to work,” she added.&nbsp;Bass called Raman on Thursday to concede the race after the latest tally from Tuesday's election showed Raman leading with 52 per cent of the vote, compared with 48 per cent for the incumbent. She was the first Black woman to serve as Los Angeles mayor.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-without-our-approval-trump-says-iran-cannot-act-on-nuclear-programme-1793937058070">'Nothing without our approval': Trump says Iran cannot act on nuclear programme</a><h3>Who is Nithya Raman?</h3>Born in Kerala in 1981, Raman moved to the United States at the age of six. She studied at Harvard University and later earned a master's degree in urban planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.&nbsp;Her campaign focused on issues including affordable housing, homelessness, public services and infrastructure. She also proposed deploying medical teams to help people experiencing homelessness.&nbsp;Raman's victory means two of the largest cities in the United States are now led by mayors of Indian descent. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani took office in January 2026.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Los Angeles, I am deeply honored to be your next mayor.

I just spoke with Mayor Bass and expressed my deepest gratitude for her leadership and decades of service. Los Angeles would not be the city it is today without her.

I love this city. I believe in its people. The work ahead will be hard, and change will take time. And together, we are going to build a future as extraordinary as the city we call home.

Thank you, LA. Let’s get to work.&mdash; Nithya Raman (@nithyavraman) <a href="https://x.com/nithyavraman/status/2118438804063445171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2026</a></blockquote>
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Nithya Raman thanked Los Angeles voters and outgoing Mayor Karen Bass after defeating her in the mayoral election, promising to work towards building a better future for the city.

Nithya Raman, set to become the next mayor of Los Angeles, said she loved the city and believed in its people after defeating incumbent Karen Bass in the mayoral election. Speaking at the Original Farmers Market, Raman said, “This city has given me and my family so much — and at a time when the federal government, over the past two years … has rejected immigrants.” “This city has opened its arms to people to come and build their dreams here,” she added Raman's victory makes her the first challenger to defeat an incumbent Los Angeles mayor in more than two decades. She is also set to become the city's first Indian-American and South Asian mayor.

Nithya Raman thanked Los Angeles voters and outgoing Mayor Karen Bass after defeating her in the mayoral election, promising to work towards building a better future for the city.

‘This city has opened its arms’: Nithya Raman's emotional reaction after becoming LA mayor | Video

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Thursday designating the Oval Office, the Outer Oval Office and the Cabinet Room as a national monument and federal landmark. The stated aim is to preserve the spaces and stop future administrations from altering them. &nbsp;It was his first official action after his party was swept aside in Tuesday's midterm elections.&nbsp; Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump described the move in sweeping terms. He said the rooms would not be able to be taken down, destroyed or touched. He also said he would send the designation to Congress to be ratified, and that major modifications would need congressional approval.“It will not be allowed to be touched by anybody, destroyed, ripped down by stupid people, in order to build something in a slightly different shape,” Trump said. "We like the Oval Office, and it's a symbol, like the White House itself." The proclamation signed by Trump says that it will "restrict the President's authority to redecorate the monument, select furnishings, or make ordinary operational and security modifications that do not substantially impair the monument's historic structure or architectural character."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hegseth-national-guard-equipment-washington-impeachment-threat-1793934443187">Hegseth expands National Guard's presence in Washington amid impeachment threat</a> Trump did not say exactly what he hoped to prevent, but suggested the Oval Office might face a threat someday. He told reporters that if anyone ever starts knocking down walls, they should call him and he would return to stop it.&nbsp; The proclamation comes amid wider White House renovations, including the demolition of the East Wing to make room for a $600 million ballroom. A day after Republicans suffered defeats in key races across the country, &nbsp;Trump gathered reporters to see the final beam being raised during construction of his opulent ballroom project.Trump has also overseen design changes to the Oval Office, adding gold accents and filling the walls with portraits. He has faced several lawsuits alleging his Washington beautification projects were done without the necessary approval.&nbsp;

Trump designates the Oval Office and Cabinet Room as national monuments, seeking to restrict future alterations amid controversy over White House renovations.

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Thursday designating the Oval Office, the Outer Oval Office and the Cabinet Room as a national monument and federal landmark. The stated aim is to preserve the spaces and stop future administrations from altering them. It was his first official action after his party was swept aside in Tuesday's midterm elections. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump described the move in sweeping terms. He said the rooms would not be able to be taken down, destroyed or touched. He also said he would send the designation to Congress to be ratified, and that major modifications would need congressional approval. “It will not be allowed to be touched by anybody, destroyed, ripped down by stupid people, in order to build something in a slightly different shape,” Trump said. "We like the Oval Office, and it's a symbol, like the White House itself." The proclamation signed by Trump says that it will "restrict the President's authority to redecorate the monument, select furnishings, or make ordinary operational and security modifications that do not substantially impair the monument's historic structure or architectural character." Also Read: Hegseth expands National Guard's presence in Washington amid impeachment threat Trump did not say exactly what he hoped to prevent, but suggested the Oval Office might face a threat someday. He told reporters that if anyone ever starts knocking down walls, they should call him and he would return to stop it. The proclamation comes amid wider White House renovations, including the demolition of the East Wing to make room for a $600 million ballroom. A day after Republicans suffered defeats in key races across the country, Trump gathered reporters to see the final beam being raised during construction of his opulent ballroom project. Trump has also overseen design changes to the Oval Office, adding gold accents and filling the walls with portraits. He has faced several lawsuits alleging his Washington beautification projects were done without the necessary approval.

Trump designates the Oval Office and Cabinet Room as national monuments, seeking to restrict future alterations amid controversy over White House renovations.

Trump designates Oval Office, Cabinet Room as national monuments, to protect them from 'stupid people'

The World Gold Council reports that gold prices are approaching a potential bottom, with overall market conditions favouring a price turnaround despite the recent dip. The council noted that two of the three historical conditions associated with gold price recoveries are already in place.&nbsp;The WGC said the current decline is more likely to be a correction than the start of a prolonged downturn similar to the one after 2011, as the macroeconomic and fundamental backdrop remains considerably stronger. "Unlike in 2011, the macro backdrop supports a recovery," the report said.&nbsp;Gold closed October at USD 3,913 per ounce, down 6.3 per cent during the month, with prices falling across all major currencies tracked by the council. The metal is currently about 25 per cent below its January 2026 record high of USD 5,405 per ounce.&nbsp;The WGC pointed to technical dislocation and dollar strength as signs that the sell-off may be nearing exhaustion. Gold is trading well below its 200-day average, and the dollar has rallied into its top tier, the report said. Speculative positioning, however, remains elevated and has yet to see a complete washout, which the council described as an important condition for a sustained recovery.&nbsp;The council's analysis of gold bear markets since 2005 found that periods in which at least two of the three conditions were present produced a median three-month forward return of 4.2 per cent, with positive returns in 90 per cent of the observations. When all three conditions were met, gold recorded positive returns in all five historical episodes analysed.

Gold prices may be reaching an interim bottom, according to the World Gold Council. Read the latest WGC analysis on market trends and recovery signals.

The World Gold Council reports that gold prices are approaching a potential bottom, with overall market conditions favouring a price turnaround despite the recent dip. The council noted that two of the three historical conditions associated with gold price recoveries are already in place. The WGC said the current decline is more likely to be a correction than the start of a prolonged downturn similar to the one after 2011, as the macroeconomic and fundamental backdrop remains considerably stronger. "Unlike in 2011, the macro backdrop supports a recovery," the report said. Gold closed October at USD 3,913 per ounce, down 6.3 per cent during the month, with prices falling across all major currencies tracked by the council. The metal is currently about 25 per cent below its January 2026 record high of USD 5,405 per ounce. The WGC pointed to technical dislocation and dollar strength as signs that the sell-off may be nearing exhaustion. Gold is trading well below its 200-day average, and the dollar has rallied into its top tier, the report said. Speculative positioning, however, remains elevated and has yet to see a complete washout, which the council described as an important condition for a sustained recovery. The council's analysis of gold bear markets since 2005 found that periods in which at least two of the three conditions were present produced a median three-month forward return of 4.2 per cent, with positive returns in 90 per cent of the observations. When all three conditions were met, gold recorded positive returns in all five historical episodes analysed.

Gold prices may be reaching an interim bottom, according to the World Gold Council. Read the latest WGC analysis on market trends and recovery signals.

A man killed 8 people in different areas of western Turkey on Thursday before being arrested. The accused stopped and shot people in the Afyonkarahisar province. The victims were found inside their vehicles at several locations, according to local media. A manhunt was launched, and the man was apprehended in the Eskişehir province. The motive behind the killings remains unknown.&nbsp;According to Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency, three people were killed near Ayazini village, three near the Kiyir village, and two women were found injured in Yukaritandir and later died at the hospital. CCTV footage shows a man in a black jacket, white trousers and glasses holding a shotgun. Among those killed were two teachers. Another victim is said to be in critical condition. It is not known where the ninth victim was attacked.&nbsp;"Unfortunately, eight of our citizens have lost their lives, and one has been seriously injured in armed attacks in our province," the Afyonkarahisar governor's office said. Afyonkarahisar is located halfway between the capital Ankara and the coastal city of Izmir.&nbsp;The police closed all roads to the villages where the crime took place as they searched for the man. He was finally arrested in the Seyitgazi district of Eskisehir province. According to reports, the man opened fire at people at random. He stopped cars and then shot the occupants. The newspaper Milliyet reported that the man fled the scene in a red vehicle, which was later found stuck in the mud in the outer region of the university town of Eskisehir.&nbsp;The Afyonkarahisar Governorate said in a statement, "All relevant institutions of our state have been working in coordination since the very first moment and are meticulously carrying out the necessary work."&nbsp;According to the DHA news agency, investigators were looking into a connection between these cases and another shooting that happened earlier at the centre of Afyonkarahisar, in which a gunman shot a woman.

Turkey mass shooting: A man killed eight and critically injured another person in a mass shooting in Turkey. He stopped people at random and killed them, police said. The motive for the killings is not known. 

A man killed 8 people in different areas of western Turkey on Thursday before being arrested. The accused stopped and shot people in the Afyonkarahisar province. The victims were found inside their vehicles at several locations, according to local media. A manhunt was launched, and the man was apprehended in the Eskişehir province. The motive behind the killings remains unknown. According to Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency, three people were killed near Ayazini village, three near the Kiyir village, and two women were found injured in Yukaritandir and later died at the hospital. CCTV footage shows a man in a black jacket, white trousers and glasses holding a shotgun. Among those killed were two teachers. Another victim is said to be in critical condition. It is not known where the ninth victim was attacked. "Unfortunately, eight of our citizens have lost their lives, and one has been seriously injured in armed attacks in our province," the Afyonkarahisar governor's office said. Afyonkarahisar is located halfway between the capital Ankara and the coastal city of Izmir. The police closed all roads to the villages where the crime took place as they searched for the man. He was finally arrested in the Seyitgazi district of Eskisehir province. According to reports, the man opened fire at people at random. He stopped cars and then shot the occupants. The newspaper Milliyet reported that the man fled the scene in a red vehicle, which was later found stuck in the mud in the outer region of the university town of Eskisehir. The Afyonkarahisar Governorate said in a statement, "All relevant institutions of our state have been working in coordination since the very first moment and are meticulously carrying out the necessary work." According to the DHA news agency, investigators were looking into a connection between these cases and another shooting that happened earlier at the centre of Afyonkarahisar, in which a gunman shot a woman.

Turkey mass shooting: A man killed eight and critically injured another person in a mass shooting in Turkey. He stopped people at random and killed them, police said. The motive for the killings is not known.&nbsp;

Turkey mass shooting: Man stopped cars at random and killed 8, link with an earlier case being probed

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‘This city opened its arms’: Nithya Raman gets emotional after LA mayoral win