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At least five people were killed and 87 remain missing after a fire erupted aboard a ferry near a tourist hotspot in the Philippine province of Palawan, the coast guard said on Thursday (Sep 10). The fire aboard the M/V June Aster broke out Wednesday evening about 2.2 kilometres (1.3 miles) offshore. Video shared by the coast guard on Facebook showed the vessel completely engulfed in flames.&nbsp;"Based on the data we have right now on rescued (42) and the casualties, we still have 87 people who are unaccounted for," coast guard Captain Noemi Cayabyab said, adding the ship's manifest had listed 134 passengers and crew. "Just to make it clear, this is live data and may change as our search and rescue operations are ongoing," she said. Of those rescued, 38 were passengers and four were crew, Cayabyab said."However, we have not yet been able to obtain information from the rescued individuals because we have not been able to speak with them," she said, adding attempts to put out the blaze were ongoing.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">WATCH: A ship was caught in a blaze in waters off Barangay Marcilla in Coron, Palawan, on Wednesday, September 9. | 📷 PCG <a href="https://t.co/3IIg8IjcuD">pic.twitter.com/3IIg8IjcuD</a>&mdash; Panay News (@panaynewsdotnet) <a href="https://x.com/panaynewsdotnet/status/2097699869104427366?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Past incidents of ferry fire</h2>The ferry MV June Aster had sailed from Manila. Ferries are a common transportation method in the Philippine archipelago. Just months prior to the Palawan incident, this triple-decker ferry sank in rough seas off the southern coast of Basilan. The disaster killed at least 18 people and left 24 missing out of more than 350 passengers onboard. In 2023, a massive fire broke out late at night while many passengers were asleep inside air-conditioned cabins. The vessel was traveling from Zamboanga City to Jolo when it went up in flames near Basilan. The incident killed 31 people, many of whom drowned after jumping overboard to escape the blaze.

At least five people were killed and 87 remain unaccounted for after a ferry caught fire off the coast of Palawan in the Philippines. The M/V June Aster had 134 passengers and crew aboard, with 42 rescued as search and rescue operations continue.

At least five people were killed and 87 remain missing after a fire erupted aboard a ferry near a tourist hotspot in the Philippine province of Palawan, the coast guard said on Thursday (Sep 10). The fire aboard the M/V June Aster broke out Wednesday evening about 2.2 kilometres (1.3 miles) offshore. Video shared by the coast guard on Facebook showed the vessel completely engulfed in flames. "Based on the data we have right now on rescued (42) and the casualties, we still have 87 people who are unaccounted for," coast guard Captain Noemi Cayabyab said, adding the ship's manifest had listed 134 passengers and crew. "Just to make it clear, this is live data and may change as our search and rescue operations are ongoing," she said. Of those rescued, 38 were passengers and four were crew, Cayabyab said. "However, we have not yet been able to obtain information from the rescued individuals because we have not been able to speak with them," she said, adding attempts to put out the blaze were ongoing.

At least five people were killed and 87 remain unaccounted for after a ferry caught fire off the coast of Palawan in the Philippines. The M/V June Aster had 134 passengers and crew aboard, with 42 rescued as search and rescue operations continue.

Ferry catches fire in Philippines: 5 dead, at least 87 unaccounted for in Palawan | VIDEO

Farmers in two border communities in Ghana are set to benefit from year-round farming following the handover of new irrigation facilities aimed at strengthening food production, boosting incomes and improving resilience to climate change.&nbsp;The irrigation farms, located in Konjiahi in the Upper West Region near the Burkina Faso border, and Awiakrom in the Bono Region close to Côte d’Ivoire, were handed over by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in partnership with GIZ Ghana and Community Aid for Rural Development (CARD Ghana) in July and August 2026.&nbsp;For years, farmers in the two communities have relied heavily on seasonal rainfall, limiting agricultural activities during prolonged dry seasons and exposing households to the effects of changing weather patterns. The new irrigation systems are expected to allow farmers to cultivate crops throughout the year, improving food security and providing more stable sources of income.&nbsp;According to local farmers, the facilities will help expand production, create market opportunities and encourage greater participation in agriculture, particularly among young people seeking sustainable livelihoods.&nbsp;Agriculture remains a key pillar of Ghana’s economy, contributing 23.3 per cent of gross domestic product and employing about 45 per cent of the country’s labour force. However, dependence on rainfall continues to leave many farming communities vulnerable to climate variability and dry spells.&nbsp;In Konjiahi, the irrigation project is expected to support dry-season cultivation and improve household food availability, while in Awiakrom it is projected to stimulate economic activity along the agricultural value chain, including processing, storage, transportation, marketing and cross-border trade.&nbsp;Fatou Diallo Ndiaye, Chief of Mission for IOM Ghana, said improving access to productive resources and promoting year-round agriculture would help border communities strengthen food systems, unlock economic potential and build resilience against climate-related challenges.&nbsp;The facilities will be managed through a community-led model, with selected residents jointly cultivating and overseeing the farms to ensure long-term sustainability and wider benefits for local development.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For years, farmers in the two communities have relied heavily on seasonal rainfall, limiting agricultural activities during prolonged dry seasons and exposing households to the effects of changing weather patterns. 

Farmers in two border communities in Ghana are set to benefit from year-round farming following the handover of new irrigation facilities aimed at strengthening food production, boosting incomes and improving resilience to climate change. The irrigation farms, located in Konjiahi in the Upper West Region near the Burkina Faso border, and Awiakrom in the Bono Region close to Côte d’Ivoire, were handed over by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in partnership with GIZ Ghana and Community Aid for Rural Development (CARD Ghana) in July and August 2026. For years, farmers in the two communities have relied heavily on seasonal rainfall, limiting agricultural activities during prolonged dry seasons and exposing households to the effects of changing weather patterns. The new irrigation systems are expected to allow farmers to cultivate crops throughout the year, improving food security and providing more stable sources of income. According to local farmers, the facilities will help expand production, create market opportunities and encourage greater participation in agriculture, particularly among young people seeking sustainable livelihoods. Agriculture remains a key pillar of Ghana’s economy, contributing 23.3 per cent of gross domestic product and employing about 45 per cent of the country’s labour force. However, dependence on rainfall continues to leave many farming communities vulnerable to climate variability and dry spells. In Konjiahi, the irrigation project is expected to support dry-season cultivation and improve household food availability, while in Awiakrom it is projected to stimulate economic activity along the agricultural value chain, including processing, storage, transportation, marketing and cross-border trade. Fatou Diallo Ndiaye, Chief of Mission for IOM Ghana, said improving access to productive resources and promoting year-round agriculture would help border communities strengthen food systems, unlock economic potential and build resilience against climate-related challenges. The facilities will be managed through a community-led model, with selected residents jointly cultivating and overseeing the farms to ensure long-term sustainability and wider benefits for local development.

For years, farmers in the two communities have relied heavily on seasonal rainfall, limiting agricultural activities during prolonged dry seasons and exposing households to the effects of changing weather patterns.&nbsp;

Ghana Border Communities get lifeline as new irrigation farms boost year-round agriculture

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the war with Iran would end “immediately” after the elections, slated for early November, and claimed that Tehran will not be able to sustain the conflict for much longer.“I think the war is going to end immediately after the election,” Trump said, while claiming that Iran was trying to influence the US vote.The US president was speaking to reporters while waiting to board Air Force One to travel to the GOP midterm convention in Texas.&nbsp;Trump said Iran is trying to shape the outcome of the US midterm election in the hope that it would then have to deal with a weaker group of politicians who would leave Tehran alone and allow them to develop a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;“All they want is a nuclear weapon. And if they had a nuclear weapon, the whole world is in deep trouble,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-show-construction-surge-at-iran-s-pickaxe-nuclear-site-amid-us-war-1788980343140">Satellite images show construction surge at Iran’s Pickaxe nuclear site amid US war</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://x.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on Iran: &quot;I&#39;m doing much more than a nuclear deal. There&#39;s a lot more than nuclear... That&#39;s 99.9, but there&#39;s going to be a lot of other things on the table that wouldn&#39;t have been on the table three months ago.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/jMlzGARkpw">pic.twitter.com/jMlzGARkpw</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/2097759930509922641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>‘Conflict now far more than about nuclear programme’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Trump said the conflict was now about more than Iran’s nuclear programme, indicating that Washington would seek broader outcomes.“I am doing much more than a nuclear deal. There is a lot more than nuclear,” Trump said. “We are gonna have nuclear, that’s 99.9 (per cent), but there is gonna be a lot of other things on the table.”&nbsp;“There’s going to be a lot of other things on the table that wouldn’t have been on the table three months ago,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-s-pm-world-s-highest-paid-leader-gets-64-hike-surges-far-ahead-of-his-global-peers-1788966635640">Singapore’s PM, world’s highest paid leader, gets 64% hike; surges far ahead of his global peers</a><h2>Trump rules out active negotiations with Iran</h2>&nbsp;He also said the US was not actively seeking negotiations with Tehran, although he left open the possibility for talks taking place.&nbsp;Asked about the possibility of resumed talks with Tehran, Trump said that he is not looking to negotiate with Iran in the near future, before the midterms.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/festivals-are-inclusive-if-muslim-comes-to-garba-cm-fadnavis-s-wife-amruta-after-vhp-bans-entry-1788959055047">‘Festivals are inclusive, if Muslim comes to garba...’: CM Fadnavis’s wife Amruta after VHP bans entry</a>&nbsp;“We’re not looking for it, to be honest,” Trump said, adding, “Originally, I wanted to make a deal. We’re so far down the line, they have very little country left right now, so we’re not looking for it. Yes, a negotiation could possibly happen but it’s not something we’re looking at.”&nbsp;Replying to a question on Israel, Trump said that he would be speaking to officials about the recent sanctions on illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank.

Trump said the conflict was now about more than Iran’s nuclear programme, indicating that Washington would seek broader outcomes. There will be a lot of other things on the table that wouldn’t have been there three months ago, he added.

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the war with Iran would end “immediately” after the elections, slated for early November, and claimed that Tehran will not be able to sustain the conflict for much longer. “I think the war is going to end immediately after the election,” Trump said, while claiming that Iran was trying to influence the US vote. The US president was speaking to reporters while waiting to board Air Force One to travel to the GOP midterm convention in Texas. Trump said Iran is trying to shape the outcome of the US midterm election in the hope that it would then have to deal with a weaker group of politicians who would leave Tehran alone and allow them to develop a nuclear weapon. “All they want is a nuclear weapon. And if they had a nuclear weapon, the whole world is in deep trouble,” he said. Also Read: Satellite images show construction surge at Iran’s Pickaxe nuclear site amid US war

Trump said the conflict was now about more than Iran’s nuclear programme, indicating that Washington would seek broader outcomes. There will be a lot of other things on the table that wouldn’t have been there three months ago, he added.

Trump says Iran war will end immediately after US midterms, claims Tehran trying to sway vote

A suspected Iranian nuclear site beneath a granite mountain near the Natanz nuclear complex, about 140 miles south of Tehran, has been witnessing an increase in construction activity, as per satellite imagery analysis reviewed by CNN. The Pickaxe Mountain site has been the subject of sustained attention from intelligence agencies, which view it as a likely location for protecting future Iranian nuclear programme activities.&nbsp;The developments around Pickaxe Mountain come as fighting between the US and Iran has intensified again after a month of relative calm.&nbsp;The analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), after reviewing six years of satellite imagery, shared exclusively with CNN ahead of its publication, found “a clear surge in construction activity” at the site in 2026.The CSIS analysts said the underground facility was “likely” designed as a safe haven for Iran’s nuclear programme.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-s-pm-world-s-highest-paid-leader-gets-64-hike-surges-far-ahead-of-his-global-peers-1788966635640">Singapore’s PM, world’s highest paid leader, gets 64% hike; surges far ahead of his global peers</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Construction activity has surged this year at Pickaxe Mountain, a suspected Iranian nuclear site near Natanz, 140 miles south of Tehran, per new CSIS satellite analysis shared with CNN. <a href="https://t.co/GGMCVdHvui">https://t.co/GGMCVdHvui</a> <a href="https://t.co/AK8zhly9ft">pic.twitter.com/AK8zhly9ft</a>&mdash; Open Source Intel (@Osint613) <a href="https://x.com/Osint613/status/2097656575867375706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Facility not yet capable of enrichment work’</h2>&nbsp;As per the CSIS analysis, construction at Pickaxe Mountain has progressed from active excavation to probable internal construction and continued reinforcement of the site’s exterior.The work has included raising and hardening tunnel portal accesses, paving the internal road network, reinforcing areas around the accesses and flattening and removing dirt excavated during tunnel construction.The CSIS analysts added that the “continuous construction” observed at the site, among other factors, suggested it was “not yet capable of enrichment work, if that is the intended purpose”.&nbsp;The facility is probably designed for one of three purposes, according to the analysis. It could serve as a centrifuge assembly facility, an enrichment facility or a safe haven for other ‘relevant’ activities such as uranium metal conversion.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/festivals-are-inclusive-if-muslim-comes-to-garba-cm-fadnavis-s-wife-amruta-after-vhp-bans-entry-1788959055047">‘Festivals are inclusive, if Muslim comes to garba...’: CM Fadnavis’s wife Amruta after VHP bans entry</a>&nbsp;Israeli intelligence has suggested that Iran may be seeking to move centrifuges to Pickaxe Mountain as part of uranium enrichment efforts.&nbsp;<h2>Trump has repeatedly threatened to strike the heavily fortified site</h2>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to strike the heavily fortified site.“We may hit Pickaxe very soon,” Trump told reporters last week.Trump also said the US could “hit” Pickaxe Mountain if it detected activity there. The US military maintains operational plans for strikes against Pickaxe Mountain, reported CNN, citing a source familiar with the matter.&nbsp;The site was part of a target package considered this summer when Trump was threatening to escalate the conflict with Iran. The strike plan involved the use of some of the largest bombs in the US arsenal, the source said, though there were doubts whether those weapons could penetrate deep enough underground to destroy whatever Iran may have moved there.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strikes-iranian-tankers-after-missile-attack-attempts-on-warship-irgc-vows-to-retaliate-1788902833158">US strikes Iranian tankers after missile attack attempts on warship; IRGC vows to retaliate</a>&nbsp;The granite mountain presents a difficult target even for the Pentagon’s “heaviest non-nuclear” bombs, according to the CSIS team.&nbsp;<h2>US working on ways to target deeply buried underground facilities</h2>&nbsp;The US has been working on ways to target deeply buried underground facilities. Four days before the US launched Operation Epic Fury, a programme manager at the Defence Threat Reduction Agency signed an emergency $1.2 million contract justification to repair a “unique subterranean test facility at White Sands Missile Range” in New Mexico.The contract was for a “live-fire test designed to validate classified capabilities against rapidly emerging threats”.&nbsp;Sources familiar with the matter said the plans involved developing a way to target Iran’s deepest-buried underground facilities, likely including simulations of US strikes against specific nuclear sites.&nbsp;<h2>New penetrator weapon under development</h2>&nbsp;The US had previously struck Iranian nuclear sites in June 2025 during Operation Midnight Hammer.However, Pentagon believed its Massive Ordnance Penetrator, or MOP, bunker-busting bombs could not destroy the facility.The US military is now working on a “next generation penetrator” bomb intended to reach targets buried even deeper underground.

The Pickaxe Mountain site has been the subject of sustained attention from intelligence agencies, which view it as a likely location for protecting future Iranian nuclear programme activities. The underground facility was “likely” designed as a safe haven for Iran’s nuclear programme.

A suspected Iranian nuclear site beneath a granite mountain near the Natanz nuclear complex, about 140 miles south of Tehran, has been witnessing an increase in construction activity, as per satellite imagery analysis reviewed by CNN. The Pickaxe Mountain site has been the subject of sustained attention from intelligence agencies, which view it as a likely location for protecting future Iranian nuclear programme activities. The developments around Pickaxe Mountain come as fighting between the US and Iran has intensified again after a month of relative calm. The analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), after reviewing six years of satellite imagery, shared exclusively with CNN ahead of its publication, found “a clear surge in construction activity” at the site in 2026. The CSIS analysts said the underground facility was “likely” designed as a safe haven for Iran’s nuclear programme. Also Read: Singapore’s PM, world’s highest paid leader, gets 64% hike; surges far ahead of his global peers

The Pickaxe Mountain site has been the subject of sustained attention from intelligence agencies, which view it as a likely location for protecting future Iranian nuclear programme activities. The underground facility was “likely” designed as a safe haven for Iran’s nuclear programme.

Satellite images show construction surge at Iran’s Pickaxe nuclear site amid US war

Apple has made one of its biggest product moves in years, launching the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and its first-ever foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo.

The September 9 keynote was also the first major iPhone launch led by new CEO John Ternus. Alongside the new iPhones, Apple unveiled the Apple Watch Series 12, Watch Ultra 4 and AirPods 5.For Indian buyers, the iPhone 18 Pro starts at Rs 1,64,900, while the iPhone Duo starts at Rs 2,99,900. The Pro models go on pre-order in India from 5:30pm IST on September 12, with sales beginning September 18.<h2> iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max: What’s new?</h2>The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are powered by Apple's new A20 Pro chip. The biggest camera upgrade is a 48MP Fusion Main camera with variable aperture. Apple says this gives users more control over how much light enters the lens, bringing more flexibility to photography. The phones also get a smaller Dynamic Island, improved sustained performance and major battery improvements. The Pro Max is claimed to deliver the biggest battery-life increase ever seen on an iPhone.The iPhone 18 Pro starts at Rs 1,64,900, while the Pro Max starts at Rs 1,79,900 in India. Both are available with up to 2TB storage.<img src="https://www.apple.com/newsroom/images/2026/09/apple-debuts-iphone-18-pro-and-iphone-18-pro-max/article/Apple-iPhone-18-Pro-color-lineup-260909_big.jpg.large.jpg" alt="iPhone 18 Pro is displayed in black, silver, glacier, and burgundy."> &nbsp;

<h2>Apple finally enters the foldable phone race</h2>The biggest surprise is iPhone Duo, Apple's first foldable iPhone. It opens into a 7.6-inch display and has a 5.4-inch outer screen when folded. It uses a titanium design, A20 Pro chip and a new hinge system.The Duo starts at Rs 2,99,900 in India. Pre-orders begin October 16, with sales starting October 23.

<figure class="image"><img src="https://www.apple.com/newsroom/images/2026/09/apple-unveils-iphone-duo/article/Apple-iPhone-Duo-colors-260909_big.jpg.large.jpg" alt="Apple unveils iPhone Duo - Apple"></figure><h2>Apple Watch, AirPods and Siri AI</h2>Apple Watch Series 12 starts at $399, while Watch Ultra 4 starts at $799. Both introduce Apple's new Health Sensing System, higher-frequency heart-rate and HRV measurements and a new readiness score. Ultra 4 offers up to 45 hours of outdoor workout tracking. Apple also launched AirPods 5, starting at $129. They bring open-ear Active Noise Cancellation, improved sound and hands-free Siri AI access. Finally, iOS 27 brings Siri AI, smarter Apple Intelligence features and new AI-powered tools across Apple's ecosystem. Siri AI will initially roll out as a beta in English on September 14. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Apple has launched the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max and first foldable iPhone Duo, alongside Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4 and AirPods 5. The iPhone 18 Pro starts at Rs 1,64,900 in India, while the Duo starts at Rs 2,99,900.

Apple has made one of its biggest product moves in years, launching the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and its first-ever foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo.

Apple has launched the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max and first foldable iPhone Duo, alongside Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4 and AirPods 5. The iPhone 18 Pro starts at Rs 1,64,900 in India, while the Duo starts at Rs 2,99,900.

Apple iPhone 18 Pro, foldable iPhone Duo launched: Everything announced at the 2026 keynote

A month ahead of general elections, a fresh political row has erupted in Israel, over a report by Haaretz. This Israeli newspaper claimed that UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed alerted Netanyahu about a terrifying operation by Hamas on Israel's soil a week before the October 7 attacks, but he chose to ignore this input.Netanyahu has rubbished this claim and decided to sue this newspaper. The Israeli PM cited call records to assert that no conversation took place between the UAE President and him, from the beginning of September till October 7. Terming the story as 'fabricated', Netanyahu alleged this was a part of the opposition's election campaign.At the same time, he pinned the blame on ex-Army Chief Herzi Halevi and former Shin Bet head Ronen Bar for not alerting him in advance, about their inputs on a possible Hamas attack.Interestingly though, UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not outrightly deny the story, but stated that it has maintained direct lines of communication with Israeli government entities since five years. It added that all relevant intelligence continues to be shared between the two countries whenever necessary.Now, why is this such a politically significant issue? During its terror attack on October 7, 2023, Hamas killed over one thousand two hundred Israelis and took another 251 people hostage. Subsequently, Israel commenced a brutal retaliatory offensive, reducing most of Gaza to ruins. In the last three years, IDF has killed over 73,000 Palestinians.Despite issuing a denial, the Israeli PM faced a fierce backlash from the opposition. For instance, Yashar Party leader Gadi Eisenkot announced that a state commission of inquiry will be formed, after the formation of a new government to ascertain Netanyahu's role.Former PM Naftali Bennett also lashed out at Netanyahu. He said and I am quoting him, "Netanyahu bears personal &amp; direct responsibility for, the failure that LED to the deaths of thousands of Israelis on his watch".Even if we keep this report aside, criticism of the Israeli government has been mounting, over the lack of accountability regarding the failure, to prevent the October 7 attack. So far, Netanyahu has refused to launch, an in-depth independent investigation into this.In April 2024, the then Military Intelligence Chief Aharon Haliva became the first senior figure to resign from his post, in the aftermath of the October 7 attack, citing his department's failure to provide a warning. In January 2025, the then Army Chief Herzi Halevi also quit, accepting that IDF had failed in its mission to protect citizens of Israel.Listen in to what he said back then...This was followed by the resignation of Israel military's Southern Command head Yaron Finkelman.In November last year, Israel's Army Chief Eyal Zamir dismissed senior military personnel and reprimanded others over the October 7 attack. Those released from reserve duty included the former heads of the Intelligence Directorate, Operations Directorate and the Southern Command.Now, the Netanyahu-led government is also facing criticism for its policies in West Bank. A day earlier, UK, France, Canada and nine other countries announced plans to block imports from Israeli settlements in West Bank.Taking strong offence to UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband who accused Israel of turning a blind eye to, ethnic cleansing of Palestinians, the Netanyahu-led government announced the closure of Britain's consulate in East Jerusalem.With growing global criticism of Israel's unending wars and rising domestic resentment, it seems that Netanyahu is facing a tough bid for re-election.

Netanyahu faces growing opposition criticism over October 7 accountability, Gaza war and West Bank policies ahead of Israel's general elections.

A month ahead of general elections, a fresh political row has erupted in Israel, over a report by Haaretz. This Israeli newspaper claimed that UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed alerted Netanyahu about a terrifying operation by Hamas on Israel's soil a week before the October 7 attacks, but he chose to ignore this input. Netanyahu has rubbished this claim and decided to sue this newspaper. The Israeli PM cited call records to assert that no conversation took place between the UAE President and him, from the beginning of September till October 7. Terming the story as 'fabricated', Netanyahu alleged this was a part of the opposition's election campaign. At the same time, he pinned the blame on ex-Army Chief Herzi Halevi and former Shin Bet head Ronen Bar for not alerting him in advance, about their inputs on a possible Hamas attack. Interestingly though, UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not outrightly deny the story, but stated that it has maintained direct lines of communication with Israeli government entities since five years. It added that all relevant intelligence continues to be shared between the two countries whenever necessary. Now, why is this such a politically significant issue? During its terror attack on October 7, 2023, Hamas killed over one thousand two hundred Israelis and took another 251 people hostage. Subsequently, Israel commenced a brutal retaliatory offensive, reducing most of Gaza to ruins. In the last three years, IDF has killed over 73,000 Palestinians. Despite issuing a denial, the Israeli PM faced a fierce backlash from the opposition. For instance, Yashar Party leader Gadi Eisenkot announced that a state commission of inquiry will be formed, after the formation of a new government to ascertain Netanyahu's role. Former PM Naftali Bennett also lashed out at Netanyahu. He said and I am quoting him, "Netanyahu bears personal & direct responsibility for, the failure that LED to the deaths of thousands of Israelis on his watch". Even if we keep this report aside, criticism of the Israeli government has been mounting, over the lack of accountability regarding the failure, to prevent the October 7 attack. So far, Netanyahu has refused to launch, an in-depth independent investigation into this. In April 2024, the then Military Intelligence Chief Aharon Haliva became the first senior figure to resign from his post, in the aftermath of the October 7 attack, citing his department's failure to provide a warning. In January 2025, the then Army Chief Herzi Halevi also quit, accepting that IDF had failed in its mission to protect citizens of Israel. Listen in to what he said back then... This was followed by the resignation of Israel military's Southern Command head Yaron Finkelman. In November last year, Israel's Army Chief Eyal Zamir dismissed senior military personnel and reprimanded others over the October 7 attack. Those released from reserve duty included the former heads of the Intelligence Directorate, Operations Directorate and the Southern Command. Now, the Netanyahu-led government is also facing criticism for its policies in West Bank. A day earlier, UK, France, Canada and nine other countries announced plans to block imports from Israeli settlements in West Bank. Taking strong offence to UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband who accused Israel of turning a blind eye to, ethnic cleansing of Palestinians, the Netanyahu-led government announced the closure of Britain's consulate in East Jerusalem. With growing global criticism of Israel's unending wars and rising domestic resentment, it seems that Netanyahu is facing a tough bid for re-election.

Netanyahu faces growing opposition criticism over October 7 accountability, Gaza war and West Bank policies ahead of Israel's general elections.

Gravitas | Netanyahu under fire, denies getting UAE's warning before Oct 7 terror attack

Eight Arab and Muslim countries have welcomed UK-led sanctions on the Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and urge other countries to take similar steps. In a joint statement issued by the Foreign ministers of these eight countries, they said that they "welcome the decision of the Government of the United Kingdom to ban the import of goods from illegal Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory."The countries include: Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Egypt. They have urged Britain to mobilise other countries to join in such measures, which are consistent with international law, the Saudi Press Agency reported.&nbsp;It came after the UK, France and Canada joined nine other European countries to impose a curb on the Israeli settlements in the West Bank to keep the hope of a two-state solution alive.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-iran-regime-collapse-mount-hermon-1788969173911">Netanyahu says Iran's leadership is 'very close' to being toppled</a><h2>How effective can these sanctions be?&nbsp;</h2>The UK government has announced five measures, banning trade with illegal settlements, taking action on services by creating a new designation; the Foreign, Commonwealth &amp; Development Office (FCDO) to target individuals and companies that facilitate illegal settlement; and banning the advertising and promotion of property in illegal settlements, strengthening the UK's sanctions regime and using that regime to target human rights violators.&nbsp;After the sanctions were announced by the UK and its allies, there are questions about how they plan to distinguish goods from Israel and the occupied West Bank, the illegal Israeli settlements, and the occupied Palestinians. The total trade of the UK with Israel stands at £6bn ($8.1bn) in 2025, according to UK government figures. The government has already admitted that it would be difficult to "obtain accurate figures for UK trade” with Israeli settlements. The UK labels everything as Palestinian from the West Bank, and trade with Palestine in the FY2026 ending March stood at £40m, which is 0.67 per cent of the total UK-Israel trade. UK imported £6m worth of goods from Palestine, which is 0.1 per cent of the annual trade with Israel.The UK plans to use zip codes to untangle Palestinian farmers and Israeli settlers. But this approach has a major loophole: settlers could simply label everything from Israel, and UK customs could not possibly verify the chemical composition or DNA to make a precise judgement. The UK is yet to lay out a draft on the details, which is likely to follow in the next few months.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-police-investigate-reform-uk-donations-1788964051763">UK police launch criminal investigation into Reform UK donations</a><h2>Burnham said they had to "stand for something"</h2>British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said to Parliament on Wednesday that it had to “stand for something”. He said that Britain had long supported the two-state solution, but it needed to be backed by actions."Leadership is about taking ​action where there is injustice, where we need to correct unfairness, ​people being driven out of their homes," he said."In this ⁠difficult and dangerous world, Britain has to stand for something," said Burnham, who succeeded Starmer after his resignation in July.The import ban was announced by the British Foreign Secretary, Ed Miliband, who described himself as a “proud Jew”, marking one of the most significant policy shifts towards Israel in years.The ban does not include exports. An Al Jazeera investigation found 17 companies linked to Israeli settlements hold UK public-sector contracts worth 2.1 billion pounds."Yesterday I called for the British government to end the use of British military facilities by Israel, and to end the manufacture of Elbit Systems in Britain and the supply of parts for the F-35 jets, which are being made in Britain,” said Independent lawmaker and Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn.UK has imposed a ban on all new licenses for arms and other exports that will be used in occupation. But the fundamental contradiction continues: the UK continues to empower Israeli defence manufacturers by providing them with millions in huge contracts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eight Arab and Muslim countries backed UK measures targeting Israeli settlements, but questions remain over how effectively the sanctions can be enforced.

Eight Arab and Muslim countries have welcomed UK-led sanctions on the Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and urge other countries to take similar steps. In a joint statement issued by the Foreign ministers of these eight countries, they said that they "welcome the decision of the Government of the United Kingdom to ban the import of goods from illegal Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory." The countries include: Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Egypt. They have urged Britain to mobilise other countries to join in such measures, which are consistent with international law, the Saudi Press Agency reported. It came after the UK, France and Canada joined nine other European countries to impose a curb on the Israeli settlements in the West Bank to keep the hope of a two-state solution alive. Also Read: Netanyahu says Iran's leadership is 'very close' to being toppled How effective can these sanctions be? The UK government has announced five measures, banning trade with illegal settlements, taking action on services by creating a new designation; the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to target individuals and companies that facilitate illegal settlement; and banning the advertising and promotion of property in illegal settlements, strengthening the UK's sanctions regime and using that regime to target human rights violators. After the sanctions were announced by the UK and its allies, there are questions about how they plan to distinguish goods from Israel and the occupied West Bank, the illegal Israeli settlements, and the occupied Palestinians. The total trade of the UK with Israel stands at £6bn ($8.1bn) in 2025, according to UK government figures. The government has already admitted that it would be difficult to "obtain accurate figures for UK trade” with Israeli settlements. The UK labels everything as Palestinian from the West Bank, and trade with Palestine in the FY2026 ending March stood at £40m, which is 0.67 per cent of the total UK-Israel trade. UK imported £6m worth of goods from Palestine, which is 0.1 per cent of the annual trade with Israel. The UK plans to use zip codes to untangle Palestinian farmers and Israeli settlers. But this approach has a major loophole: settlers could simply label everything from Israel, and UK customs could not possibly verify the chemical composition or DNA to make a precise judgement. The UK is yet to lay out a draft on the details, which is likely to follow in the next few months. Also Read: UK police launch criminal investigation into Reform UK donations Burnham said they had to "stand for something" British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said to Parliament on Wednesday that it had to “stand for something”. He said that Britain had long supported the two-state solution, but it needed to be backed by actions. "Leadership is about taking action where there is injustice, where we need to correct unfairness, people being driven out of their homes," he said. "In this ⁠difficult and dangerous world, Britain has to stand for something," said Burnham, who succeeded Starmer after his resignation in July. The import ban was announced by the British Foreign Secretary, Ed Miliband, who described himself as a “proud Jew”, marking one of the most significant policy shifts towards Israel in years. The ban does not include exports. An Al Jazeera investigation found 17 companies linked to Israeli settlements hold UK public-sector contracts worth 2.1 billion pounds. "Yesterday I called for the British government to end the use of British military facilities by Israel, and to end the manufacture of Elbit Systems in Britain and the supply of parts for the F-35 jets, which are being made in Britain,” said Independent lawmaker and Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn. UK has imposed a ban on all new licenses for arms and other exports that will be used in occupation. But the fundamental contradiction continues: the UK continues to empower Israeli defence manufacturers by providing them with millions in huge contracts.

Eight Arab and Muslim countries backed UK measures targeting Israeli settlements, but questions remain over how effectively the sanctions can be enforced.

8 Arab, Muslim countries back sanctions on Israeli settlements: How effective can they be?

Alice Weidel embodies one of the strangest contradictions in European politics.She leads a party fiercely opposed to mass immigration, yet her partner is Sri Lanka-born. She is in a same-sex relationship while leading a political movement that has championed the traditional heterosexual family. She raises children with her partner while her party has fought liberalisation of family policy. And the woman selling German nationalism has spent significant parts of her private life in Switzerland.Then there is economics. The former investment banker carries distinctly market-oriented instincts while commanding a populist movement drawing heavily from workers who feel abandoned by Germany's political and economic establishment.Welcome to the paradox of Germany's Alternative für Deutschland.Except the AfD is no longer merely an alternative.It is becoming a dominant political force.In Saxony-Anhalt, voters handed the AfD an extraordinary 43.8 per cent of the vote. Chancellor Friedrich Merz's CDU managed just 17.2 per cent. The AfD secured 39 of the state parliament's 83 seats — short of governing alone, but comfortably the largest party.The political shockwaves have reached Berlin.Merz described himself as deeply shocked and acknowledged a devastating defeat. Former chancellor Angela Merkel has also reacted with dismay. Meanwhile, thousands have taken to German streets protesting the AfD's advance.But protests cannot erase ballots.And that presents Europe's liberal establishment with an uncomfortable democratic dilemma.If an election is free and fair, what happens when voters choose the political movement the establishment has spent years warning them against?AfD's opponents have legitimate concerns. Germany's history makes scrutiny of extremist rhetoric especially important. Its Saxony-Anhalt branch has been classified as right-wing extremist by the state's domestic intelligence authorities.But condemning a political movement is not the same thing as understanding why people vote for it.Immigration. Economic insecurity. National identity. Cultural anxiety. Anger at established politicians. Frustration with institutions voters believe no longer listen to them.These forces are not confined to Germany.Across Europe, nationalist and right-wing populist movements have moved from the political fringes towards government, parliament and increasingly the mainstream.Across the Atlantic, Donald Trump's movement speaks much of the same political language: borders, sovereignty, cultural conservatism, national pride and rebellion against an establishment accused of abandoning ordinary citizens.Yet there is a crucial difference.

America's populist Right captured one of the country's two dominant political parties. Europe's insurgent Right operates through multiple parties and political systems, often confronting coalition barriers designed to keep it away from executive power.And inevitably, Germany's history hangs over this debate.Comparisons with the interwar years must be handled carefully. Europe in 2026 is not Europe in 1933. Its constitutions, institutions and political conditions are fundamentally different, and today's right-wing movements cannot simply be labelled replicas of twentieth-century fascism.But history offers warnings rather than photocopies.Economic anxiety, resentment towards political elites, arguments over national identity, hostility towards outsiders and the conviction that existing institutions no longer represent ordinary citizens all existed in Europe's darkest political periods.That does not mean history is repeating itself.It means politicians would be foolish not to listen when history rhymes.The lesson from Saxony-Anhalt therefore extends far beyond the AfD.Europe's establishment can build firewalls. It can organise protests. It can condemn extremists and challenge rhetoric that threatens minorities or democratic institutions.But none of those things answers the most important question:Why are so many voters moving Right in the first place?Until Europe's political centre answers that question convincingly, the insurgency will continue.The Right is no longer knocking on Europe's door.Voters are increasingly handing it the keys.

AfD's opponents have legitimate concerns. Germany's history makes scrutiny of extremist rhetoric especially important. Its Saxony-Anhalt branch has been classified as right-wing extremist by the state's domestic intelligence authorities.

Alice Weidel embodies one of the strangest contradictions in European politics. She leads a party fiercely opposed to mass immigration, yet her partner is Sri Lanka-born. She is in a same-sex relationship while leading a political movement that has championed the traditional heterosexual family. She raises children with her partner while her party has fought liberalisation of family policy. And the woman selling German nationalism has spent significant parts of her private life in Switzerland. Then there is economics. The former investment banker carries distinctly market-oriented instincts while commanding a populist movement drawing heavily from workers who feel abandoned by Germany's political and economic establishment. Welcome to the paradox of Germany's Alternative für Deutschland. Except the AfD is no longer merely an alternative. It is becoming a dominant political force. In Saxony-Anhalt, voters handed the AfD an extraordinary 43.8 per cent of the vote. Chancellor Friedrich Merz's CDU managed just 17.2 per cent. The AfD secured 39 of the state parliament's 83 seats — short of governing alone, but comfortably the largest party. The political shockwaves have reached Berlin. Merz described himself as deeply shocked and acknowledged a devastating defeat. Former chancellor Angela Merkel has also reacted with dismay. Meanwhile, thousands have taken to German streets protesting the AfD's advance. But protests cannot erase ballots. And that presents Europe's liberal establishment with an uncomfortable democratic dilemma. If an election is free and fair, what happens when voters choose the political movement the establishment has spent years warning them against? AfD's opponents have legitimate concerns. Germany's history makes scrutiny of extremist rhetoric especially important. Its Saxony-Anhalt branch has been classified as right-wing extremist by the state's domestic intelligence authorities. But condemning a political movement is not the same thing as understanding why people vote for it. Immigration. Economic insecurity. National identity. Cultural anxiety. Anger at established politicians. Frustration with institutions voters believe no longer listen to them. These forces are not confined to Germany. Across Europe, nationalist and right-wing populist movements have moved from the political fringes towards government, parliament and increasingly the mainstream. Across the Atlantic, Donald Trump's movement speaks much of the same political language: borders, sovereignty, cultural conservatism, national pride and rebellion against an establishment accused of abandoning ordinary citizens. Yet there is a crucial difference.

AfD's opponents have legitimate concerns. Germany's history makes scrutiny of extremist rhetoric especially important. Its Saxony-Anhalt branch has been classified as right-wing extremist by the state's domestic intelligence authorities.

Europe turns right: The revolution the establishment cannot ignore | The Verdict

Pakistan has reportedly directed medical and dental institutions across the country to stop admitting Afghan students and remove those already enrolled, as relations between Islamabad and Kabul continue to deteriorate.According to a PTI report, citing a senior Health Ministry official, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has barred institutions from granting admissions or placements to Afghan students during the current academic session, a senior Health Ministry official said on Wednesday (Sep 9). The order could affect hundreds of Afghan students pursuing medical and dental degrees, including those close to completing their courses.Students already enrolled have also been told to return to Afghanistan, according to the official. The measure applies specifically to Afghan nationals and does not cover students from other countries.<h2>Visa status remains key</h2>Pakistan’s Foreign Office offered a more nuanced position, saying Afghan students who hold valid passports and residency documents can still apply for visa extensions under existing regulations.Foreign Office spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan told Dawn that under Pakistan’s Illegal Foreigner Repatriation Plan, foreign nationals without valid passports and visas are considered to be staying illegally and can face deportation.“However, Pakistani authorities are continuing to process visa extension applications from Afghan students in accordance with our existing policy, rules and regulations,” he said.King Edward Medical University in Lahore has already begun implementing the directive. A university official said 22 Afghan students are currently studying there and have been given 24 hours to complete the required legal and administrative formalities.<h2>Pakistan-Afghanistan ties worsen</h2>The move comes amid growing tensions over Pakistan’s allegations that the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan operates from sanctuaries inside Afghanistan. Kabul’s Taliban administration has denied the allegations.Relations deteriorated further following explosions in Kabul on October 9 last year and subsequent cross-border clashes that caused casualties and damage on both sides.Pakistan has hosted millions of Afghans over several decades, with many fleeing successive conflicts. The arrival of hundreds of thousands increased after the Taliban returned to power in 2021.Islamabad began a major deportation campaign against undocumented foreigners in 2023 and intensified the drive in April last year after cancelling hundreds of thousands of Afghan residence permits. In June, Pakistan’s interior ministry ordered authorities to arrest Afghan nationals living in the country without valid visas from July 10.More than one million Afghan nationals were deported from Pakistan last year alone.

Pakistan has ordered medical institutions to expel Afghan students and halt fresh admissions amid worsening ties with Kabul. Students with valid visas can still seek extensions under existing rules.

Pakistan has reportedly directed medical and dental institutions across the country to stop admitting Afghan students and remove those already enrolled, as relations between Islamabad and Kabul continue to deteriorate. According to a PTI report, citing a senior Health Ministry official, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has barred institutions from granting admissions or placements to Afghan students during the current academic session, a senior Health Ministry official said on Wednesday (Sep 9). The order could affect hundreds of Afghan students pursuing medical and dental degrees, including those close to completing their courses. Students already enrolled have also been told to return to Afghanistan, according to the official. The measure applies specifically to Afghan nationals and does not cover students from other countries. Visa status remains key Pakistan’s Foreign Office offered a more nuanced position, saying Afghan students who hold valid passports and residency documents can still apply for visa extensions under existing regulations. Foreign Office spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan told Dawn that under Pakistan’s Illegal Foreigner Repatriation Plan, foreign nationals without valid passports and visas are considered to be staying illegally and can face deportation. “However, Pakistani authorities are continuing to process visa extension applications from Afghan students in accordance with our existing policy, rules and regulations,” he said. King Edward Medical University in Lahore has already begun implementing the directive. A university official said 22 Afghan students are currently studying there and have been given 24 hours to complete the required legal and administrative formalities. Pakistan-Afghanistan ties worsen The move comes amid growing tensions over Pakistan’s allegations that the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan operates from sanctuaries inside Afghanistan. Kabul’s Taliban administration has denied the allegations. Relations deteriorated further following explosions in Kabul on October 9 last year and subsequent cross-border clashes that caused casualties and damage on both sides. Pakistan has hosted millions of Afghans over several decades, with many fleeing successive conflicts. The arrival of hundreds of thousands increased after the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Islamabad began a major deportation campaign against undocumented foreigners in 2023 and intensified the drive in April last year after cancelling hundreds of thousands of Afghan residence permits. In June, Pakistan’s interior ministry ordered authorities to arrest Afghan nationals living in the country without valid visas from July 10. More than one million Afghan nationals were deported from Pakistan last year alone.

Pakistan has ordered medical institutions to expel Afghan students and halt fresh admissions amid worsening ties with Kabul. Students with valid visas can still seek extensions under existing rules.

Pakistan expelling Afghan medical students? Islamabad issues new order as ties with Kabul deteriorate

As fighting between Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed Houthis escalated, the credibility of the Mecca Pact is again at stake.&nbsp;After one month has elapsed since the signing of this trilateral agreement, Pakistan has now said that it may join Saudi in its battle against the Houthis.&nbsp;Fierce fighting continued along Yemen's west coast.&nbsp;&nbsp;Visuals showed Saudi-backed Yemeni forces firing artillery, mortar and heavy machine guns towards Houthi positions on the Maqbanah front which lies west to Taiz.&nbsp;Houthis also accused Saudi Arabia of launching 32 air strikes on various areas across the regions of Marib, Al-Jawf, Taiz and Hodeida.&nbsp;As of now, Saudi Arabia is yet to confirm this claim.&nbsp;Over 500 people have been killed since last week when the Iran-backed group launched a major offensive to seize territory around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.&nbsp;This comes as Saudi Arabia had vowed to respond to the drone and missile attacks launched by Houthis at four cities on its soil.&nbsp;73 people, including women and children, were wounded.&nbsp;Visuals showed the scale of destruction, whether it is damaged homes or injured people receiving treatment in hospital.&nbsp;Houthis announced that they also attacked sites belonging to oil giant Aramco.&nbsp;On its part, Riyadh revealed that several energy facilities and installations were targeted, leading to a temporary halt in some operations due to fires.&nbsp;Satellite images showed smoke emanating from an Aramco distribution centre and refinery in Abha and Jazan.&nbsp;This was the first attack on any Aramco facility since July 25, when Houthis claimed to have fired drones and missiles at the oil giant's sites in Jazan and Yanbu.&nbsp;Now, the latest Houthi attack came barely a day after Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned of retaliation against energy infrastructure across West Asia if the US attacks its assets.&nbsp;On his part, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack by Houthis and expressed unwavering solidarity with Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-threatens-to-join-war-against-iran-ally-as-houthis-attack-saudi-1788974433951/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-threatens-to-join-war-against-iran-ally-as-houthis-attack-saudi-1788974433951/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;However, will Asim Munir's forces formally join Saudi in attacking the Iran-backed group?&nbsp;This assumes significance, as the Mecca Pact made it clear that an armed attack against any one of Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkiye shall be regarded as an attack against them all.&nbsp;Speaking to a Pakistani news channel, its defence minister Khawaja Asif hinted at Pakistan entering this conflict.&nbsp;He said, "Unprovoked aggression or spillover of whatever is happening in Yemen into Saudi Arabia will definitely make the pact operational. There should be no doubt about it.”&nbsp;However, he added an important caveat.&nbsp;According to Asif, Pakistan will honour the pact only if a need arises.&nbsp;Now, Pakistan's dilemma possibly stems from the fact that taking on Houthis will imply challenging Iran.&nbsp;Even after intense strikes by US and Israel, Iran maintains a strong military and arsenal of weapons that can cause significant damage to Pakistan in a conflict scenario.&nbsp;It is also worth noting that Munir's forces did not join hostilities against Iran despite a Mecca Pact-like clause being present in the Pakistan-Saudi defence pact signed in September last year.&nbsp;Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio alleged an Iranian hand behind the latest offensive by Houthis.&nbsp;After its failed attempt to emerge as a mediator, Pakistan is now facing a catch-22 situation as it runs the risk of offending both Saudi as well as Iran as the war drags on...

Pakistan's dilemma possibly stems from the fact that taking on Houthis will imply challenging Iran. Even after intense strikes by US and Israel, Iran maintains a strong military and arsenal of weapons that can cause significant damage to Pakistan in a conflict scenario.

As fighting between Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed Houthis escalated, the credibility of the Mecca Pact is again at stake. After one month has elapsed since the signing of this trilateral agreement, Pakistan has now said that it may join Saudi in its battle against the Houthis. Fierce fighting continued along Yemen's west coast. Visuals showed Saudi-backed Yemeni forces firing artillery, mortar and heavy machine guns towards Houthi positions on the Maqbanah front which lies west to Taiz. Houthis also accused Saudi Arabia of launching 32 air strikes on various areas across the regions of Marib, Al-Jawf, Taiz and Hodeida. As of now, Saudi Arabia is yet to confirm this claim. Over 500 people have been killed since last week when the Iran-backed group launched a major offensive to seize territory around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. This comes as Saudi Arabia had vowed to respond to the drone and missile attacks launched by Houthis at four cities on its soil. 73 people, including women and children, were wounded. Visuals showed the scale of destruction, whether it is damaged homes or injured people receiving treatment in hospital. Houthis announced that they also attacked sites belonging to oil giant Aramco. On its part, Riyadh revealed that several energy facilities and installations were targeted, leading to a temporary halt in some operations due to fires. Satellite images showed smoke emanating from an Aramco distribution centre and refinery in Abha and Jazan. This was the first attack on any Aramco facility since July 25, when Houthis claimed to have fired drones and missiles at the oil giant's sites in Jazan and Yanbu. Now, the latest Houthi attack came barely a day after Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned of retaliation against energy infrastructure across West Asia if the US attacks its assets. On his part, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack by Houthis and expressed unwavering solidarity with Saudi Arabia. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-threatens-to-join-war-against-iran-ally-as-houthis-attack-saudi-1788974433951/embed However, will Asim Munir's forces formally join Saudi in attacking the Iran-backed group? This assumes significance, as the Mecca Pact made it clear that an armed attack against any one of Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkiye shall be regarded as an attack against them all. Speaking to a Pakistani news channel, its defence minister Khawaja Asif hinted at Pakistan entering this conflict. He said, "Unprovoked aggression or spillover of whatever is happening in Yemen into Saudi Arabia will definitely make the pact operational. There should be no doubt about it.” However, he added an important caveat. According to Asif, Pakistan will honour the pact only if a need arises. Now, Pakistan's dilemma possibly stems from the fact that taking on Houthis will imply challenging Iran. Even after intense strikes by US and Israel, Iran maintains a strong military and arsenal of weapons that can cause significant damage to Pakistan in a conflict scenario. It is also worth noting that Munir's forces did not join hostilities against Iran despite a Mecca Pact-like clause being present in the Pakistan-Saudi defence pact signed in September last year. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio alleged an Iranian hand behind the latest offensive by Houthis. After its failed attempt to emerge as a mediator, Pakistan is now facing a catch-22 situation as it runs the risk of offending both Saudi as well as Iran as the war drags on...

Pakistan's dilemma possibly stems from the fact that taking on Houthis will imply challenging Iran. Even after intense strikes by US and Israel, Iran maintains a strong military and arsenal of weapons that can cause significant damage to Pakistan in a conflict scenario.

Pakistan threatens to join war against Iran ally as Houthis attack Saudi | Gravitas

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed it captured a US unmanned underwater vehicle near the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, calling it one of the most advanced systems operated by the US military.Iranian state media identified the vessel as the Dive-LD, an autonomous underwater vehicle manufactured by California-based defence technology company Anduril Industries. The IRGC Navy described the submarine as a “prize” now in Iranian possession.The US military, however, disputed the significance of the incident. A Pentagon spokesperson said the underwater drone had malfunctioned more than a day before Iran announced the seizure and had been surveying regional waters as part of ongoing US operations.The defective vehicle was an older Dive-LD model and “neither collected sensitive data nor carried any classified sonar or radar equipment”, the spokesperson said.<h2>What is Dive-LD?</h2>The Dive-LD is a roughly 5.8-metre (19-foot) autonomous underwater vehicle weighing about three tonnes. According to Anduril, the underwater drone can operate for up to 10 days without requiring it to return to base and can dive to depths of around 6,000 metres (19,700 feet).Its modular design allows it to carry different sensors and payloads. Its stated missions include intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, mine countermeasures, seabed mapping and inspection of underwater infrastructure such as cables and pipelines.<h2>Why does it matter?</h2>US defence officials have been investing heavily in autonomous underwater and surface systems to monitor large areas, gather intelligence and track adversary vessels without exposing sailors to danger.Anduril confirmed that one of its Dive-LD vessels had been lost but played down the military significance of its capture.“Dive-LD is an attritable autonomous system,” an Anduril spokesperson said, meaning the vehicle was designed to operate in dangerous environments where losing the system was considered an expected possibility.The company said the vessel had already delivered significant value during thousands of hours of operations in the US Central Command area.The US Navy began receiving Dive-LD systems in 2025, with the vehicles being used by its unmanned undersea units. Anduril is also supplying the Navy with the larger Dive-XL system, which shares design characteristics with Australia’s Ghost Shark autonomous submarine.

Iran claims it captured a US Dive-LD underwater drone near the Strait of Hormuz, but Washington says the malfunctioning vehicle was an older model that carried no sensitive data or classified equipment.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed it captured a US unmanned underwater vehicle near the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, calling it one of the most advanced systems operated by the US military. Iranian state media identified the vessel as the Dive-LD, an autonomous underwater vehicle manufactured by California-based defence technology company Anduril Industries. The IRGC Navy described the submarine as a “prize” now in Iranian possession. The US military, however, disputed the significance of the incident. A Pentagon spokesperson said the underwater drone had malfunctioned more than a day before Iran announced the seizure and had been surveying regional waters as part of ongoing US operations. The defective vehicle was an older Dive-LD model and “neither collected sensitive data nor carried any classified sonar or radar equipment”, the spokesperson said. What is Dive-LD? The Dive-LD is a roughly 5.8-metre (19-foot) autonomous underwater vehicle weighing about three tonnes. According to Anduril, the underwater drone can operate for up to 10 days without requiring it to return to base and can dive to depths of around 6,000 metres (19,700 feet). Its modular design allows it to carry different sensors and payloads. Its stated missions include intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, mine countermeasures, seabed mapping and inspection of underwater infrastructure such as cables and pipelines. Why does it matter? US defence officials have been investing heavily in autonomous underwater and surface systems to monitor large areas, gather intelligence and track adversary vessels without exposing sailors to danger. Anduril confirmed that one of its Dive-LD vessels had been lost but played down the military significance of its capture. “Dive-LD is an attritable autonomous system,” an Anduril spokesperson said, meaning the vehicle was designed to operate in dangerous environments where losing the system was considered an expected possibility. The company said the vessel had already delivered significant value during thousands of hours of operations in the US Central Command area. The US Navy began receiving Dive-LD systems in 2025, with the vehicles being used by its unmanned undersea units. Anduril is also supplying the Navy with the larger Dive-XL system, which shares design characteristics with Australia’s Ghost Shark autonomous submarine.

Iran claims it captured a US Dive-LD underwater drone near the Strait of Hormuz, but Washington says the malfunctioning vehicle was an older model that carried no sensitive data or classified equipment.

What is Dive-LD? All you need to know about the US underwater drone Iran claims to have captured

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said during his visit to Israeli troops stationed in Jabal al-Sheikh (Mount Hermon) in Syria that the leadership of the Islamic Republic is “very close” to being toppled. He was accompanied by the Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz."There is still work to be done -- the main task is to bring down the terror regime in Iran. We are very close to that. We know that the entire axis will ultimately collapse," said Netanyahu.Israeli forces have been stationed in a “security zone” since the fall of long-time leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. They have crossed deeper into Syria beyond the armistice line established in 1974, which was previously a buffer zone patrolled by the United Nations army. Israel has occupied the Golan Heights in Syria since the Six-Day War in 1967. The United Nations and most of the member states consider the Golan Heights to be Syrian territory.“We will not allow any terrorist army to establish itself on our border,” said Netanyahu.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-police-investigate-reform-uk-donations-1788964051763">UK police launch criminal investigation into Reform UK donations</a><h2>Israel to maintain its position within Syria</h2>Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz sent a message to Syrian President Ahmed Al Shara during the visit to Mount Hermon that Israel will maintain its position within Syria. He also said that Israel is prepared to strike Iran a third time.“We are here sending a very strong and clear message to the President of Syria, who sits 35 kilometres away down there in his palace in Damascus: we are here on Mount Hermon, we are in the security zone, and we are not moving from here,” said Katz.&nbsp;

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said Iran's leadership is “very close” to being toppled during a visit to Israeli troops stationed at Mount Hermon in Syria.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said during his visit to Israeli troops stationed in Jabal al-Sheikh (Mount Hermon) in Syria that the leadership of the Islamic Republic is “very close” to being toppled. He was accompanied by the Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz. "There is still work to be done -- the main task is to bring down the terror regime in Iran. We are very close to that. We know that the entire axis will ultimately collapse," said Netanyahu. Israeli forces have been stationed in a “security zone” since the fall of long-time leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. They have crossed deeper into Syria beyond the armistice line established in 1974, which was previously a buffer zone patrolled by the United Nations army. Israel has occupied the Golan Heights in Syria since the Six-Day War in 1967. The United Nations and most of the member states consider the Golan Heights to be Syrian territory. “We will not allow any terrorist army to establish itself on our border,” said Netanyahu. Also Read: UK police launch criminal investigation into Reform UK donations Israel to maintain its position within Syria Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz sent a message to Syrian President Ahmed Al Shara during the visit to Mount Hermon that Israel will maintain its position within Syria. He also said that Israel is prepared to strike Iran a third time. “We are here sending a very strong and clear message to the President of Syria, who sits 35 kilometres away down there in his palace in Damascus: we are here on Mount Hermon, we are in the security zone, and we are not moving from here,” said Katz.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said Iran's leadership is “very close” to being toppled during a visit to Israeli troops stationed at Mount Hermon in Syria.

Netanyahu says Iran's leadership is 'very close' to being toppled

Even as Singapore’s prime minister has been the world’s highest paid elected leader for long, incumbent Lawrence Wong on Tuesday announced a 64 per cent hike in his package. The hike will further increase the compensation gap between him and his global counterparts.Wong announced in the parliament that ministerial salaries will be adjusted upwards, having remained unchanged for 15 years.&nbsp;After the revision, Wong is likely to draw an annual salary of 3.6 million Singapore dollars ($2.8 million), which nearly equals ₹27 crore in Indian currency, from SG$2.2 million. The figure includes both fixed and variable components.&nbsp;However, Wong has pledged to donate his full salary increase to charity for five years, assuming he remains prime minister.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/festivals-are-inclusive-if-muslim-comes-to-garba-cm-fadnavis-s-wife-amruta-after-vhp-bans-entry-1788959055047">‘Festivals are inclusive, if Muslim comes to garba...’: CM Fadnavis’s wife Amruta after VHP bans entry</a>&nbsp;A comparison between the pay packages shows that the gap in salaries of Wong and other world leaders is quite stark.&nbsp;Wong’s new package is seven times the $400,000 salary paid to the US president and more than four times that of the Swiss president.&nbsp;In fact, Wong’s SG$3.6 million package is more than the combined statutory pay of the leaders of the US, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, South Korea and New Zealand, based on US dollar conversions as of Tuesday, though some of these countries exclude bonuses and other allowances.&nbsp;“Political salaries are a difficult and emotive issue — the sums involved are more than what most citizens earn,” Wong said in parliament. “It is ultimately about whether Singapore will continue to have the quality of political leadership we need to take our country forward,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strikes-iranian-tankers-after-missile-attack-attempts-on-warship-irgc-vows-to-retaliate-1788902833158">US strikes Iranian tankers after missile attack attempts on warship; IRGC vows to retaliate</a>&nbsp;Wong said he failed to persuade several corporate leaders, who were earning several times a minister’s salary, to join politics before the 2025 election.&nbsp;“I have not given up,” Wong said. “I am still looking and I hope to persuade a few to join us in the next election.”&nbsp;A comparison in salaries shows that Wong earns an annual pay of $2,846,783 USD. Switzerland’s President of the Confederation earns $604,009 USD annually while Australia’s Prime Minister gets $448,819 USD in annual per year.Canada’s PM earns $315,395 USD annually, while New Zealand’s Prime Minister earns $304,125 USD per year.&nbsp;South Korea’s President earns $202,562 USD annually as fixed statutory salary, but excludes separate position and meal allowances.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-brics-flex-its-collective-clout-at-florida-g20-act-as-bloc-within-a-bloc-1788897945720">Will BRICS emerge as bloc within a bloc at Florida G20, flex its growing clout?</a>&nbsp;Singapore’s political salaries are linked to the private sector.Data from the Public Service Division revealed the salary level of an entry level minister, known as the MR4 grade, is based on the median income of the 1,000 highest-earning Singapore citizens, with a 40% discount to reflect the ethos of public service.That figure will rise from $1.1 million to $1.8 million, with the prime minister drawing twice the MR4 grade.Singapore says competitive salaries help it attract capable candidates who may otherwise remain in business, finance or other highly paid professions.&nbsp;Wong said that existing political officeholders will receive one-off adjustments of up to 9% from Oct. 15, based on factors including performance and when their salaries were last adjusted.A minister currently receiving S$1.1 million could therefore initially see annual pay rise to around S$1.2 million rather than immediately reaching S$1.8 million.Further adjustments will depend on individual performance and responsibilities, he said.&nbsp;“Political salaries are a difficult and emotive issue,” Wong said, adding that “The sums involved are more than what most citizens earn. So I understand why Singaporeans scrutinize them closely, and why many feel strongly about the matter.”“But we run an open system and believe in being transparent about ministerial salaries. We cannot avoid this issue simply because it is politically difficult.”

After the revision, PM Lawrence Wong is likely to draw an annual salary of 3.6 million Singapore dollars ($2.8 million), which nearly equals ₹27 crore in Indian currency, from SG$2.2 million. However, Wong has pledged to donate his full salary increase to charity for five years.

Even as Singapore’s prime minister has been the world’s highest paid elected leader for long, incumbent Lawrence Wong on Tuesday announced a 64 per cent hike in his package. The hike will further increase the compensation gap between him and his global counterparts. Wong announced in the parliament that ministerial salaries will be adjusted upwards, having remained unchanged for 15 years. After the revision, Wong is likely to draw an annual salary of 3.6 million Singapore dollars ($2.8 million), which nearly equals ₹27 crore in Indian currency, from SG$2.2 million. The figure includes both fixed and variable components. However, Wong has pledged to donate his full salary increase to charity for five years, assuming he remains prime minister. Also Read: ‘Festivals are inclusive, if Muslim comes to garba...’: CM Fadnavis’s wife Amruta after VHP bans entry A comparison between the pay packages shows that the gap in salaries of Wong and other world leaders is quite stark. Wong’s new package is seven times the $400,000 salary paid to the US president and more than four times that of the Swiss president. In fact, Wong’s SG$3.6 million package is more than the combined statutory pay of the leaders of the US, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, South Korea and New Zealand, based on US dollar conversions as of Tuesday, though some of these countries exclude bonuses and other allowances. “Political salaries are a difficult and emotive issue — the sums involved are more than what most citizens earn,” Wong said in parliament. “It is ultimately about whether Singapore will continue to have the quality of political leadership we need to take our country forward,” he added. Also Read: US strikes Iranian tankers after missile attack attempts on warship; IRGC vows to retaliate Wong said he failed to persuade several corporate leaders, who were earning several times a minister’s salary, to join politics before the 2025 election. “I have not given up,” Wong said. “I am still looking and I hope to persuade a few to join us in the next election.” A comparison in salaries shows that Wong earns an annual pay of $2,846,783 USD. Switzerland’s President of the Confederation earns $604,009 USD annually while Australia’s Prime Minister gets $448,819 USD in annual per year. Canada’s PM earns $315,395 USD annually, while New Zealand’s Prime Minister earns $304,125 USD per year. South Korea’s President earns $202,562 USD annually as fixed statutory salary, but excludes separate position and meal allowances. Also Read: Will BRICS emerge as bloc within a bloc at Florida G20, flex its growing clout? Singapore’s political salaries are linked to the private sector. Data from the Public Service Division revealed the salary level of an entry level minister, known as the MR4 grade, is based on the median income of the 1,000 highest-earning Singapore citizens, with a 40% discount to reflect the ethos of public service. That figure will rise from $1.1 million to $1.8 million, with the prime minister drawing twice the MR4 grade. Singapore says competitive salaries help it attract capable candidates who may otherwise remain in business, finance or other highly paid professions. Wong said that existing political officeholders will receive one-off adjustments of up to 9% from Oct. 15, based on factors including performance and when their salaries were last adjusted. A minister currently receiving S$1.1 million could therefore initially see annual pay rise to around S$1.2 million rather than immediately reaching S$1.8 million. Further adjustments will depend on individual performance and responsibilities, he said. “Political salaries are a difficult and emotive issue,” Wong said, adding that “The sums involved are more than what most citizens earn. So I understand why Singaporeans scrutinize them closely, and why many feel strongly about the matter.” “But we run an open system and believe in being transparent about ministerial salaries. We cannot avoid this issue simply because it is politically difficult.”

After the revision, PM Lawrence Wong is likely to draw an annual salary of 3.6 million Singapore dollars ($2.8 million), which nearly equals ₹27 crore in Indian currency, from SG$2.2 million. However, Wong has pledged to donate his full salary increase to charity for five years.

Singapore’s PM, world’s highest paid leader, gets 64% hike; surges far ahead of his global peers

The UK Police have launched a criminal investigation into donations to the Reform UK party. This comes after an investigation by Channel 4 News, which showed that the anti-immigration party had broken rules on foreign donations.&nbsp;The Metropolitan Police said that it had received “a number of reports relating to donations and polling involving a political party,” following the broadcast by Channel 4. “Detectives have assessed the information provided and determined that there are potential offences requiring investigation,” it said.In a statement, Met police said: “All allegations under investigation relate to potential offences under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000.” "Detectives continue to liaise closely with the Electoral Commission and Crown Prosecution Service as enquiries progress," said the Met police.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-countries-export-the-most-1788958108365">8 things you didn't know about what countries export most</a>A Reform spokesperson has said that the party "denies any wrongdoing and will fully cooperate with the investigation". The party had suspended Dan Jukes, a long-time adviser to the Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and Chief James Orr.&nbsp;The undercover investigation shows two Reform UK officials were discussing ways to funnel 500,000 pounds ($675,000) from a US-based financier through his UK-based son and asking a fake company to pay for it. They were discussing getting the US donor to pay for opinion polls commissioned by Reform UK. The "son" was the reporter from the investigative group Verbatim.Farage denied that Reform UK has violated any electoral law. He said that those were “loose pub talks” and condemned the broadcaster as an entrapment hoax created by the climate activists. UK strongly bans political parties from accepting donations from foreign organisations or individuals.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UK police have launched a criminal investigation into Reform UK donations following a Channel 4 investigation into alleged foreign funding violations.

The UK Police have launched a criminal investigation into donations to the Reform UK party. This comes after an investigation by Channel 4 News, which showed that the anti-immigration party had broken rules on foreign donations. The Metropolitan Police said that it had received “a number of reports relating to donations and polling involving a political party,” following the broadcast by Channel 4. “Detectives have assessed the information provided and determined that there are potential offences requiring investigation,” it said. In a statement, Met police said: “All allegations under investigation relate to potential offences under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000.” "Detectives continue to liaise closely with the Electoral Commission and Crown Prosecution Service as enquiries progress," said the Met police. Also Read: 8 things you didn't know about what countries export most A Reform spokesperson has said that the party "denies any wrongdoing and will fully cooperate with the investigation". The party had suspended Dan Jukes, a long-time adviser to the Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and Chief James Orr. The undercover investigation shows two Reform UK officials were discussing ways to funnel 500,000 pounds ($675,000) from a US-based financier through his UK-based son and asking a fake company to pay for it. They were discussing getting the US donor to pay for opinion polls commissioned by Reform UK. The "son" was the reporter from the investigative group Verbatim. Farage denied that Reform UK has violated any electoral law. He said that those were “loose pub talks” and condemned the broadcaster as an entrapment hoax created by the climate activists. UK strongly bans political parties from accepting donations from foreign organisations or individuals.

UK police have launched a criminal investigation into Reform UK donations following a Channel 4 investigation into alleged foreign funding violations.

UK police launch criminal investigation into Reform UK donations

According to the data from the World Trade Organisation, mapped by Visual Capitalist, from China's machinery and electronics to Gulf oil, Australia's minerals and Bangladesh's textiles, here is what drives the world's export economies. 

According to the data from the World Trade Organisation, mapped by Visual Capitalist, from China's machinery and electronics to Gulf oil, Australia's minerals and Bangladesh's textiles, here is what drives the world's export economies.&nbsp;

8 things you didn't know about what countries export most

Two Bangladeshi army soldiers were killed, and one was officially injured after a Chinese-origin Type-59 tank exploded during a live-fire exercise on Wednesday at the Hathazari Field Firing Range in Chattogram. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations Directorate (ISPR), the incident was “surprising”, and they are investigating the possible causes behind it. &nbsp;“The injured officer is being transferred by helicopter to Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Dhaka for advanced medical treatment. Necessary measures are underway to investigate the cause of the accident,” said a post by the ISPR on Facebook.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-countries-export-the-most-1788958108365">8 things you didn't know about what countries export most</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Bangladesh Army’s Chinese-origin Type 59 tank reportedly exploded during a firing exercise, killing 2 crew members and injuring an officer. Made in China. Used in Bangladesh. Deadly outcome. <a href="https://t.co/Gn0FRx5ul4">pic.twitter.com/Gn0FRx5ul4</a>&mdash; Shadow IND (@ShadowIND_IN) <a href="https://x.com/ShadowIND_IN/status/2097611763437252952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Type-59 tank</h2>These tanks are of Chinese origin and are very old, structurally and conceptually. These date back to the Cold War era design and are derivative of the Soviet T-54A tank. &nbsp;China produced them between 1958 and 1985. The tank exploded during the firing exercise, though the real circumstances that led to the explosion are unknown. These armoured vehicles have formed part of the Bangladesh Army's armoured inventory for decades. Bangladesh relies on lifespan extension to keep them deployable.&nbsp;

Two Bangladesh army soldiers were killed and one injured after a Chinese-origin Type-59 tank exploded during a live-fire exercise in Chattogram.

Two Bangladeshi army soldiers were killed, and one was officially injured after a Chinese-origin Type-59 tank exploded during a live-fire exercise on Wednesday at the Hathazari Field Firing Range in Chattogram. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations Directorate (ISPR), the incident was “surprising”, and they are investigating the possible causes behind it. “The injured officer is being transferred by helicopter to Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Dhaka for advanced medical treatment. Necessary measures are underway to investigate the cause of the accident,” said a post by the ISPR on Facebook. Also Read: 8 things you didn't know about what countries export most

Two Bangladesh army soldiers were killed and one injured after a Chinese-origin Type-59 tank exploded during a live-fire exercise in Chattogram.

Two Bangladesh army soldiers killed as Chinese-orign Type-59 tank explodes during live-fire exercise

The fighter jet of the future may not fly into battle alone. Instead, it could command an entire formation of unmanned aircraft, sending drones ahead to detect threats, jam radars, deceive air defences and strike targets.Russia is now pushing this concept around its Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter.Russian defence conglomerate Rostec is showcasing low-observable unmanned aircraft designed to operate with the Su-57. The concept points towards a fundamental change in air warfare: the fighter evolving from a standalone combat aircraft into an airborne command node for drones.Speaking on WION’s Defence Pulse, former Indian Air Force fighter pilot Air Marshal Anil Chopra explained why manned-unmanned teaming could transform operations in heavily defended airspace.“The manned aircraft could be the mother aircraft, the controller, and there could be a large number of drones which could act either as loyal wingmen or could even be a swarm.”Such drones could perform different tasks. Some could fly ahead as decoys, others could carry sensors for reconnaissance and targeting, while electronic warfare drones could attempt to disrupt enemy systems. Armed unmanned aircraft could eventually carry out strikes, allowing the expensive crewed fighter to remain farther from the most dangerous air defences.The concept is not uniquely Russian. The United States is developing Collaborative Combat Aircraft, including the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A prototypes, while China is pursuing its own advanced unmanned combat aircraft and manned-unmanned teaming concepts.The challenge is what happens inside the cockpit.A fighter pilot already has to fly the aircraft, monitor sensors, track threats and employ weapons. Controlling multiple drones simultaneously could create an enormous workload. This is where artificial intelligence and greater drone autonomy become critical.Chopra believes the drones cannot depend on the pilot for every decision.“There will be a high degree of autonomy that will have to be given to the drones after a target has been assigned or a job has been assigned.”The transformation could change the economics and risks of air warfare as well. Relatively expendable drones can be pushed into highly contested airspace before a valuable fighter and its pilot. The fighter jet, therefore, may not disappear. Its role could become even more important. Instead of being the lone hunter in the sky, it could become the commander of a flying army.

Russia is developing unmanned aircraft designed to work with the Su-57, pointing to a future where fighter jets command drones in combat.

The fighter jet of the future may not fly into battle alone. Instead, it could command an entire formation of unmanned aircraft, sending drones ahead to detect threats, jam radars, deceive air defences and strike targets. Russia is now pushing this concept around its Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter. Russian defence conglomerate Rostec is showcasing low-observable unmanned aircraft designed to operate with the Su-57. The concept points towards a fundamental change in air warfare: the fighter evolving from a standalone combat aircraft into an airborne command node for drones. Speaking on WION’s Defence Pulse, former Indian Air Force fighter pilot Air Marshal Anil Chopra explained why manned-unmanned teaming could transform operations in heavily defended airspace. “The manned aircraft could be the mother aircraft, the controller, and there could be a large number of drones which could act either as loyal wingmen or could even be a swarm.” Such drones could perform different tasks. Some could fly ahead as decoys, others could carry sensors for reconnaissance and targeting, while electronic warfare drones could attempt to disrupt enemy systems. Armed unmanned aircraft could eventually carry out strikes, allowing the expensive crewed fighter to remain farther from the most dangerous air defences. The concept is not uniquely Russian. The United States is developing Collaborative Combat Aircraft, including the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A prototypes, while China is pursuing its own advanced unmanned combat aircraft and manned-unmanned teaming concepts. The challenge is what happens inside the cockpit. A fighter pilot already has to fly the aircraft, monitor sensors, track threats and employ weapons. Controlling multiple drones simultaneously could create an enormous workload. This is where artificial intelligence and greater drone autonomy become critical. Chopra believes the drones cannot depend on the pilot for every decision. “There will be a high degree of autonomy that will have to be given to the drones after a target has been assigned or a job has been assigned.” The transformation could change the economics and risks of air warfare as well. Relatively expendable drones can be pushed into highly contested airspace before a valuable fighter and its pilot. The fighter jet, therefore, may not disappear. Its role could become even more important. Instead of being the lone hunter in the sky, it could become the commander of a flying army.

Russia is developing unmanned aircraft designed to work with the Su-57, pointing to a future where fighter jets command drones in combat.

Su-57’s Drone army: Russia turns stealth fighter into an airborne commander

Several vessels in the Gulf region were on fire on Wednesday (Sep 9), according to a British maritime agency, as Iran said it had attacked 20 ships attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The latest incidents come amid a deadlock in the six-month war, with Iran maintaining its grip on the strategic waterway while Washington continues to press its counterblockade of Iranian ports. Meanwhile, Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the US strikes on its oil tankers, calling the attacks a threat to regional security.The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said “several merchant vessels in the Northern Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman” were “subject to disabling fire as part of ongoing military activity in the region”.The agency also reported a vessel 24 nautical miles northwest of Port Rashid, in the UAE, that appeared to be listing.“The Master of a tanker has reported sighting a vessel listing while at anchor, possibly indicating water ingress following an attack from an unknown projectile,” it said.<h2>Iran claims attacks on 20 ships</h2>Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they had attacked two US vessels, eight oil tankers and 10 “non-compliant vessels” trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, state media reported. The claims came after US strikes on Iranian vessels, with Tehran also threatening to attack oil tankers off Kuwait and Bahrain.The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes, has remained at the centre of the confrontation. Any disruption to traffic through the narrow waterway could have wider consequences for energy markets and commercial shipping.The latest reports add to concerns over the safety of vessels operating in the Gulf and surrounding waters. While the maritime agency did not identify the ships involved, its warning underscores the risks facing commercial traffic as military activity continues.The incidents also highlight the growing pressure on shipping operators navigating the region, where attacks and counterattacks have raised fears of further escalation.<h2>Iran condemns US strikes on tankers</h2>Iranian foreign ministry on Wednesday (Sep 9) condemned the US strikes on oil carriers. It added that the Iranian forces targeted the US military facilities in the region in “self-defence”.“The aggressive actions by the United States against Iranian commercial vessels not only increase the dangers of tensions in the region but are also considered an overt threat to regional and international peace and security,” the ministry said in a statement.

Iran claims attacks on 20 ships in the Strait of Hormuz as vessels catch fire in the Gulf. Tehran condemns US strikes on oil tankers, raising fears of wider regional escalation.

Several vessels in the Gulf region were on fire on Wednesday (Sep 9), according to a British maritime agency, as Iran said it had attacked 20 ships attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The latest incidents come amid a deadlock in the six-month war, with Iran maintaining its grip on the strategic waterway while Washington continues to press its counterblockade of Iranian ports. Meanwhile, Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the US strikes on its oil tankers, calling the attacks a threat to regional security. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said “several merchant vessels in the Northern Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman” were “subject to disabling fire as part of ongoing military activity in the region”. The agency also reported a vessel 24 nautical miles northwest of Port Rashid, in the UAE, that appeared to be listing. “The Master of a tanker has reported sighting a vessel listing while at anchor, possibly indicating water ingress following an attack from an unknown projectile,” it said. Iran claims attacks on 20 ships Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they had attacked two US vessels, eight oil tankers and 10 “non-compliant vessels” trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, state media reported. The claims came after US strikes on Iranian vessels, with Tehran also threatening to attack oil tankers off Kuwait and Bahrain. The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes, has remained at the centre of the confrontation. Any disruption to traffic through the narrow waterway could have wider consequences for energy markets and commercial shipping. The latest reports add to concerns over the safety of vessels operating in the Gulf and surrounding waters. While the maritime agency did not identify the ships involved, its warning underscores the risks facing commercial traffic as military activity continues. The incidents also highlight the growing pressure on shipping operators navigating the region, where attacks and counterattacks have raised fears of further escalation. Iran condemns US strikes on tankers Iranian foreign ministry on Wednesday (Sep 9) condemned the US strikes on oil carriers. It added that the Iranian forces targeted the US military facilities in the region in “self-defence”. “The aggressive actions by the United States against Iranian commercial vessels not only increase the dangers of tensions in the region but are also considered an overt threat to regional and international peace and security,” the ministry said in a statement.

Iran claims attacks on 20 ships in the Strait of Hormuz as vessels catch fire in the Gulf. Tehran condemns US strikes on oil tankers, raising fears of wider regional escalation.

Gulf on fire: Iran claims attacks on 20 ships, condemns US strikes on tankers

The Republican Party is making political history this week with its first-ever national midterm convention, a two-day spectacle in Dallas designed to rally the GOP base, showcase the party’s candidates and turn the 2026 midterm elections into a referendum on President Donald Trump. The Republican convention will be held on September 9 and 10 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Unlike the traditional Republican National Convention held every four years to nominate a presidential candidate, this gathering comes midway through a presidential term and has no nomination to decide. The event has instead been built around Trump, his political record and the Republican agenda ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.<h2>What happens at the convention?</h2>The two-day event is being billed by Republicans as a national celebration of the Trump administration's achievements and the GOP's vision for America. Expect a mix of major political speeches, policy presentations, candidate showcases, appearances by Republican lawmakers, personal stories from "everyday Americans" and highly produced prime-time programming.&nbsp;The first night focuses heavily on issues including tax cuts, healthcare, border security, government spending, education, public safety and domestic manufacturing. The second night is expected to focus on issues including taxes on tips and overtime, Social Security, prescription drug costs, border security and the administration's record. The event is deliberately designed to resemble the energy and spectacle of a presidential convention, including a balloon drop, even though no presidential nomination is taking place.<h2>When is it happening?</h2>The convention runs for two days, Wednesday, September 9 and Thursday, September 10. Programming begins during the afternoon in Dallas and continues into prime time. The official schedule lists programming beginning at 3 pm Central Time on both days, with major evening programming following later in the day. That translates to 1:30 am IST on September 10 and September 11 for the corresponding 3 pm Dallas start. The headline speeches are scheduled for prime time in the United States.<h2>When will Trump speak?</h2>Trump is the central figure of the convention, and unusually, he is scheduled to address the gathering on both nights. He will deliver the headline address on the opening night and return for the closing prime-time speech on Thursday. Reuters reported that Trump's second appearance was expanded to two nights as Republicans seek to energise supporters ahead of the midterms. That makes the convention particularly significant: Trump is not on the 2026 ballot, but the Republican strategy is clearly to make the election about his record and his political movement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-s-main-opposition-party-centrist-reform-alliance-collapses-after-eight-months-1788948335493">Japan's main Opposition party, Centrist Reform Alliance, collapses after eight months</a><h2>Who else is speaking?</h2>Vice President JD Vance is one of the biggest names on the programme. He is scheduled to deliver a keynote address and remains one of the most closely watched figures in the Republican Party as a potential leader of the post-Trump GOP. The broader speaker lineup includes Republican congressional leaders, Cabinet officials, governors, Senate and House candidates, conservative activists and ordinary Americans whose stories are being used to illustrate Republican policy priorities.&nbsp;Among the prominent names appearing in the programme are House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, RNC Chairman Joe Gruters, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Dr Mehmet Oz, Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds and Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, among others. More than 100 speakers and programme segments are scheduled across the two nights, according to the convention schedule.<h2>What are the big political themes?</h2>Three broad messages are expected to dominate the convention. Trump's record: Republicans will highlight the administration's policies on taxes, immigration, healthcare, energy, trade and government spending. The November midterms: The convention is ultimately about turnout. Republicans want to energise Trump's supporters for an election in which Trump himself is not on the ballot. A choice between Trump-era Republicanism and Democrats: GOP messaging will seek to frame the election as a choice between the Republican agenda and what the party characterises as the Democrats' "extreme" policies.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Saddle up, Dallas. The Republican Convention starts TOMORROW! <a href="https://t.co/76kzbpMK8J">pic.twitter.com/76kzbpMK8J</a>&mdash; Republicans (@Republicans) <a href="https://x.com/Republicans/status/2097419060904354198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Why is this convention significant?</h2>The biggest significance is simply that Republicans have never held a national midterm convention before. Traditional party conventions are presidential-year events where delegates formally nominate the party's presidential and vice-presidential candidates and approve the party platform. A midterm convention has no such constitutional or electoral function.&nbsp;Trump has nevertheless pushed for a convention-style event because midterm elections are traditionally difficult for the party controlling the White House. The calculation is straightforward: if Trump can dominate the political conversation, energise his base and make the November election a vote on his agenda, Republicans may be able to overcome the turnout disadvantage that often hurts the president's party in midterms.<h2>Why Dallas?</h2>Dallas provides a politically useful backdrop for the GOP. Texas remains one of the most important Republican strongholds in the country, but the state is also home to several consequential Republican primary and general-election battles. The convention will therefore be both a national showcase and an opportunity to spotlight candidates competing in important races. Candidate showcases are scheduled during the convention, including appearances by Republicans running in competitive congressional contests.<h2>What should viewers watch for?</h2>The most important moments will go beyond the speeches.1. Trump's message: Does he focus primarily on his administration's achievements, the economy and cost of living, immigration, foreign policy — or the 2026 elections themselves?2. JD Vance's role: Vance's keynote will be closely watched for clues about the future direction of the Republican Party and his own political positioning.3. The economy: Inflation and the cost of living remain politically sensitive issues, making the Republican economic message particularly important.4. The midterm candidates: The convention is intended to give Republican candidates a national platform, but candidates in competitive districts must also decide how closely to associate themselves with Trump.5. The Trump-versus-GOP question: How much of the Republican Party's future is still centred on Trump — and how much space is being created for the next generation of Republican leaders?<h2>How can you watch or stream it?</h2>The official Republican convention website is providing a live stream of the two-night event. The RNC says viewers can watch speeches from Trump, Vance, Republican leaders, candidates and other participants through its official live page.&nbsp;<a href="https://gopconvention.com/live/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">Watch the Republican Convention live — official stream</a>&nbsp;Fox News is also providing extensive live coverage from Dallas. Its television programming will originate from the American Airlines Center during both days, while Fox Nation will offer a live stream beginning at 5 pm ET. For Indian viewers, the key prime-time speeches will therefore take place in the early hours of the morning IST, given Dallas' Central Time Zone.<h2>The bigger picture</h2>This is not a convention to choose a Republican presidential nominee. It is a convention designed to demonstrate that Trump remains the centre of gravity of the Republican Party even when his name is not on the ballot. The real test will come after the balloons fall and the speeches end: whether the event succeeds in translating Trump's political dominance into enthusiasm, organisation and turnout for Republican candidates on November 3.&nbsp;In that sense, Dallas is less about choosing the next Republican president than about answering a question that will shape the next two years of American politics: Can Trump turn his presidency into a winning midterm campaign for the Republican Party?

Republican Convention 2026 in Dallas: Check dates, timings, Trump and JD Vance speeches, speakers, schedule, significance and live streaming details

The Republican Party is making political history this week with its first-ever national midterm convention, a two-day spectacle in Dallas designed to rally the GOP base, showcase the party’s candidates and turn the 2026 midterm elections into a referendum on President Donald Trump. The Republican convention will be held on September 9 and 10 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Unlike the traditional Republican National Convention held every four years to nominate a presidential candidate, this gathering comes midway through a presidential term and has no nomination to decide. The event has instead been built around Trump, his political record and the Republican agenda ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. What happens at the convention? The two-day event is being billed by Republicans as a national celebration of the Trump administration's achievements and the GOP's vision for America. Expect a mix of major political speeches, policy presentations, candidate showcases, appearances by Republican lawmakers, personal stories from "everyday Americans" and highly produced prime-time programming. The first night focuses heavily on issues including tax cuts, healthcare, border security, government spending, education, public safety and domestic manufacturing. The second night is expected to focus on issues including taxes on tips and overtime, Social Security, prescription drug costs, border security and the administration's record. The event is deliberately designed to resemble the energy and spectacle of a presidential convention, including a balloon drop, even though no presidential nomination is taking place. When is it happening? The convention runs for two days, Wednesday, September 9 and Thursday, September 10. Programming begins during the afternoon in Dallas and continues into prime time. The official schedule lists programming beginning at 3 pm Central Time on both days, with major evening programming following later in the day. That translates to 1:30 am IST on September 10 and September 11 for the corresponding 3 pm Dallas start. The headline speeches are scheduled for prime time in the United States. When will Trump speak? Trump is the central figure of the convention, and unusually, he is scheduled to address the gathering on both nights. He will deliver the headline address on the opening night and return for the closing prime-time speech on Thursday. Reuters reported that Trump's second appearance was expanded to two nights as Republicans seek to energise supporters ahead of the midterms. That makes the convention particularly significant: Trump is not on the 2026 ballot, but the Republican strategy is clearly to make the election about his record and his political movement. Also Read: Japan's main Opposition party, Centrist Reform Alliance, collapses after eight months Who else is speaking? Vice President JD Vance is one of the biggest names on the programme. He is scheduled to deliver a keynote address and remains one of the most closely watched figures in the Republican Party as a potential leader of the post-Trump GOP. The broader speaker lineup includes Republican congressional leaders, Cabinet officials, governors, Senate and House candidates, conservative activists and ordinary Americans whose stories are being used to illustrate Republican policy priorities. Among the prominent names appearing in the programme are House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, RNC Chairman Joe Gruters, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Dr Mehmet Oz, Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds and Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, among others. More than 100 speakers and programme segments are scheduled across the two nights, according to the convention schedule. What are the big political themes? Three broad messages are expected to dominate the convention. Trump's record: Republicans will highlight the administration's policies on taxes, immigration, healthcare, energy, trade and government spending. The November midterms: The convention is ultimately about turnout. Republicans want to energise Trump's supporters for an election in which Trump himself is not on the ballot. A choice between Trump-era Republicanism and Democrats: GOP messaging will seek to frame the election as a choice between the Republican agenda and what the party characterises as the Democrats' "extreme" policies.

Trump and top Republicans gather in Dallas for the GOP's first midterm convention. Here's the schedule, speakers, key issues and how to watch live

Republican midterm convention 2026: What to expect as Trump takes centre stage in Dallas

Japan’s fragmented political opposition suffered another major setback on Wednesday (September 9) after its main party announced plans to disband, following an unsuccessful effort to challenge Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s highly popular administration. The Centrist Reform Alliance will cease its activities, party leader Junya Ogawa announced at a press conference, bringing an eight-month attempt to establish a strong political alternative to Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to an end."Once we settle outstanding payments, we will dissolve the party," he said.&nbsp;The Centrist party was hastily established in January through an attempt to merge two major opposition forces and create a more unified challenge to the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. The groups involved were Komeito, the LDP’s former coalition partner, and the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-files-immigration-charges-against-us-citizen-and-six-ukrainians-as-terror-probe-continues-1788946661592">India files immigration charges against US citizen and six Ukrainians as terror probe continues</a>&nbsp;However, the newly formed party suffered a heavy defeat in February’s general election. It won just 49 of the 465 seats in the lower house, while more than 100 of its incumbent lawmakers lost their bids for re-election. In contrast, the LDP gained more than 100 seats, taking its total to 316 and strengthening its position in the lower house. Following the party’s collapse, some Centrist members are expected to return to their former political groups, while others could establish new parties.&nbsp;Ogawa said the party’s lawmakers are nevertheless expected to form a lower-house caucus, allowing them to continue efforts to build a credible alternative to the LDP. The political upheaval also follows Komeito’s decision last October to end its 26-year coalition with the LDP. The pacifist party, which is backed by a lay Buddhist organisation, said the Liberal Democratic Party had declined to strengthen regulations governing political donations following a fundraising scandal.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-massive-food-safety-crackdown-shakes-100-billion-food-industry-1788947411807/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-massive-food-safety-crackdown-shakes-100-billion-food-industry-1788947411807/embed</a>

Japan’s Centrist Reform Alliance will disband after a crushing election defeat, deepening opposition turmoil and strengthening Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s LDP

Japan’s fragmented political opposition suffered another major setback on Wednesday (September 9) after its main party announced plans to disband, following an unsuccessful effort to challenge Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s highly popular administration. The Centrist Reform Alliance will cease its activities, party leader Junya Ogawa announced at a press conference, bringing an eight-month attempt to establish a strong political alternative to Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to an end. "Once we settle outstanding payments, we will dissolve the party," he said. The Centrist party was hastily established in January through an attempt to merge two major opposition forces and create a more unified challenge to the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. The groups involved were Komeito, the LDP’s former coalition partner, and the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan. Also Read: India files immigration charges against US citizen and six Ukrainians as terror probe continues However, the newly formed party suffered a heavy defeat in February’s general election. It won just 49 of the 465 seats in the lower house, while more than 100 of its incumbent lawmakers lost their bids for re-election. In contrast, the LDP gained more than 100 seats, taking its total to 316 and strengthening its position in the lower house. Following the party’s collapse, some Centrist members are expected to return to their former political groups, while others could establish new parties. Ogawa said the party’s lawmakers are nevertheless expected to form a lower-house caucus, allowing them to continue efforts to build a credible alternative to the LDP. The political upheaval also follows Komeito’s decision last October to end its 26-year coalition with the LDP. The pacifist party, which is backed by a lay Buddhist organisation, said the Liberal Democratic Party had declined to strengthen regulations governing political donations following a fundraising scandal. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-massive-food-safety-crackdown-shakes-100-billion-food-industry-1788947411807/embed

Japan’s opposition faces deeper turmoil as the Centrist Reform Alliance plans to disband after a major election defeat and failed bid to challenge the LDP

Japan's main Opposition party, Centrist Reform Alliance, collapses after eight months

Super El Niño is threatening to bring heavy snowfall to the United States. A meteorologist has predicted that six states are particularly vulnerable to extreme conditions in the winter season this year. Crystal Egger, a meteorologist and the president of Monarch Weather Consulting, told Newsweek that it cannot be said with certainty that El Niño will worsen the coming winter season, but it "can tilt the odds toward certain temperature and precipitation patterns."&nbsp;She has flagged six states as being at a higher risk of being slammed by heavy snowfall because of El Niño. They are - California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona.&nbsp;She was talking to the outlet about the places that should prepare for extreme snow. While this might sound like a less-than-ideal scenario, Egger said this would actually be good for the region.<h2>What El Niño means for winter</h2>&nbsp;She said, historically, El Niño winters mean a "wetter storm track across the southern tier of the US. That can translate to above-average snowfall across parts of the southern and central Rockies and the higher elevations of the Southwest."&nbsp;&nbsp;Egger believes this might not be a bad thing since mountains need snow right now. "Much of the West is coming off a very dry start to the water year, so building that snowpack will be critical for water supplies and overall drought conditions heading into 2027," she said.&nbsp;While El Niño would bring wetter conditions to most parts of the US, some of them might remain drier because of the weather phenomenon that has wreaked havoc across the world. "El Niño typically favours warmer conditions across the northern tier of the U.S., including parts of the Pacific Northwest, Northern Rockies, and Upper Midwest," Egger told the outlet.&nbsp;The monster El Niño created extremely hot conditions in Europe, India and America this year. Several heatwaves gripped Europe this season, with a heat dome taking effect. Climate scientists have warned of winters getting worse this year because of El Niño. &nbsp;

Super El Niño might mean heavy snowfall for certain states in the United States, but it might actually be good news. An expert has specifically named six states where the winter season might see a lot of snow. However, some states will also remain dry.

Super El Niño is threatening to bring heavy snowfall to the United States. A meteorologist has predicted that six states are particularly vulnerable to extreme conditions in the winter season this year. Crystal Egger, a meteorologist and the president of Monarch Weather Consulting, told Newsweek that it cannot be said with certainty that El Niño will worsen the coming winter season, but it "can tilt the odds toward certain temperature and precipitation patterns." She has flagged six states as being at a higher risk of being slammed by heavy snowfall because of El Niño. They are - California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona. She was talking to the outlet about the places that should prepare for extreme snow. While this might sound like a less-than-ideal scenario, Egger said this would actually be good for the region. What El Niño means for winter She said, historically, El Niño winters mean a "wetter storm track across the southern tier of the US. That can translate to above-average snowfall across parts of the southern and central Rockies and the higher elevations of the Southwest." Egger believes this might not be a bad thing since mountains need snow right now. "Much of the West is coming off a very dry start to the water year, so building that snowpack will be critical for water supplies and overall drought conditions heading into 2027," she said. While El Niño would bring wetter conditions to most parts of the US, some of them might remain drier because of the weather phenomenon that has wreaked havoc across the world. "El Niño typically favours warmer conditions across the northern tier of the U.S., including parts of the Pacific Northwest, Northern Rockies, and Upper Midwest," Egger told the outlet. The monster El Niño created extremely hot conditions in Europe, India and America this year. Several heatwaves gripped Europe this season, with a heat dome taking effect. Climate scientists have warned of winters getting worse this year because of El Niño.

Super El Niño might mean heavy snowfall for certain states in the United States, but it might actually be good news. An expert has specifically named six states where the winter season might see a lot of snow. However, some states will also remain dry.

El Niño winter: 6 US states facing heavy snowfall, expert warns

India’s National Investigation Agency has filed a chargesheet against American citizen Matthew Aaron Van Dyke and six Ukrainian nationals for alleged immigration offences, while investigation under anti-terror law UAPA remains open. The seven men were arrested on 13 March 2026 at airports in Kolkata, Delhi and Lucknow. The original case was registered under Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, along with other provisions, over allegations that they illegally entered Myanmar and trained ethnic armed groups in drone warfare.&nbsp;The NIA charged them under Sections 21 and 23 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act for illegal entry, stay and movement. The chargesheet was filed as the statutory 180-day custody period under the UAPA framework was due to expire on 8 September. Under Indian law, if a chargesheet is not filed within the applicable period, an accused may seek default bail.&nbsp;Investigators allege the group arrived in India on tourist visas in December 2025, travelled through Guwahati to Mizoram without the required Protected Area Permit, and crossed into Myanmar to provide training in drone operations, assembly and jamming. They are then said to have re-entered India through an unauthorised route in March. The NIA has also alleged links between some Myanmar-based groups and insurgent organisations in India’s north-east.&nbsp;The filing itself records that investigation under the UAPA is continuing. The agency may file a supplementary chargesheet if further evidence supports additional offences. Indian criminal procedure allows further investigation after a first chargesheet. Officials say the absence of UAPA counts in the current document should not be read as a withdrawal or closure of the terror inquiry. US diplomats have raised Mr Van Dyke’s detention with Indian authorities. That is standard consular practice.&nbsp;&nbsp;Indian missions similarly seek access, legal assistance and fair treatment when Indian nationals are arrested abroad. Consular access is also recognised under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. The court has listed the matter for 1 October. The immigration case will now proceed on the charges already filed, while the UAPA investigation continues against all seven accused.&nbsp;

India’s NIA has chargesheeted American citizen Matthew Aaron Van Dyke and six Ukrainians for alleged immigration offences linked to an India-Myanmar drone training case. The agency’s UAPA investigation remains open, with a supplementary chargesheet possible as the probe continues.

India’s National Investigation Agency has filed a chargesheet against American citizen Matthew Aaron Van Dyke and six Ukrainian nationals for alleged immigration offences, while investigation under anti-terror law UAPA remains open. The seven men were arrested on 13 March 2026 at airports in Kolkata, Delhi and Lucknow. The original case was registered under Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, along with other provisions, over allegations that they illegally entered Myanmar and trained ethnic armed groups in drone warfare. The NIA charged them under Sections 21 and 23 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act for illegal entry, stay and movement. The chargesheet was filed as the statutory 180-day custody period under the UAPA framework was due to expire on 8 September. Under Indian law, if a chargesheet is not filed within the applicable period, an accused may seek default bail. Investigators allege the group arrived in India on tourist visas in December 2025, travelled through Guwahati to Mizoram without the required Protected Area Permit, and crossed into Myanmar to provide training in drone operations, assembly and jamming. They are then said to have re-entered India through an unauthorised route in March. The NIA has also alleged links between some Myanmar-based groups and insurgent organisations in India’s north-east. The filing itself records that investigation under the UAPA is continuing. The agency may file a supplementary chargesheet if further evidence supports additional offences. Indian criminal procedure allows further investigation after a first chargesheet. Officials say the absence of UAPA counts in the current document should not be read as a withdrawal or closure of the terror inquiry. US diplomats have raised Mr Van Dyke’s detention with Indian authorities. That is standard consular practice. Indian missions similarly seek access, legal assistance and fair treatment when Indian nationals are arrested abroad. Consular access is also recognised under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. The court has listed the matter for 1 October. The immigration case will now proceed on the charges already filed, while the UAPA investigation continues against all seven accused.

India’s NIA has chargesheeted American citizen Matthew Aaron Van Dyke and six Ukrainians for alleged immigration offences linked to an India-Myanmar drone training case. The agency’s UAPA investigation remains open, with a supplementary chargesheet possible as the probe continues.

India files immigration charges against US citizen and six Ukrainians as terror probe continues

Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro has gone viral on internet for standing up against China at a Seoul forum. He was participating in the first plenary session of the Seoul Defense Dialogue, hosted by South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense, which focused on ways to build a more stable international order amid growing geopolitical tensions. The session was intended to promote dialogue and security cooperation among officials and experts from dozens of countries.&nbsp;However, matters took a heated turn while Teodoro was speaking and an official handed over a note to him. The Seoul Defense Dialogue is an annual South Korean security forum launched in 2012 and elevated to ministerial level in 2023. Its 15th edition brought together around 1,000 officials and experts from 67 countries and international organisations.<h2>What actually happened?</h2>

As Teodoro started speaking about the South China Sea dispute, accusing some countries of using hostility and unchecked power at the expense of smaller states, he was interrupted by a man who handed him a note. Looking perplexed, he opened the note. Teodoro said, “This seems to be a note from China,” before reading it aloud. The note reportedly said that the “so-called arbitral award is illegal, null and void.” “That’s your claim,” Teodoro replied.&nbsp;&nbsp;The note appeared to refer to a 2016 arbitration ruling issued in a case brought by the Philippines under UNCLOS. The tribunal rejected China’s claim to historic rights over much of the South China Sea under its “nine-dash line.” Beijing has since refused to recognize the ruling. It is not known if the man who handed the note was a Chinese Embassy official or any other person. The Chinese Embassy in Seoul also did not immediately respond to a request for comment. No senior Chinese government official attended the event.&nbsp;Teodoro continued reading the lines on the note, stating that China neither accepted nor recognised the ruling, to which he responded, “Of course, because you lost.” He said the Philippines would not sacrifice its territory or sovereignty and would continue to resist actions that violated international law, in remarks widely seen as directed at China. He went on to say that if the note represented China’s position, it amounted to “throwing UNCLOS on the floor and trampling on it.”<h2>WATCH VIDEO</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">MAHIYA NAMAN KAYO | Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. responded to a note from the Chinese side during the Seoul Defense Dialogue (SDD) 2026 in Seoul, Republic of Korea.<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DNDPHL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DNDPHL</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DiKaPasisiil?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DiKaPasisiil</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/SDD2026?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SDD2026</a> <a href="https://t.co/fsCRVphkgf">pic.twitter.com/fsCRVphkgf</a>&mdash; Department of National Defense - Philippines (@dndphl) <a href="https://x.com/dndphl/status/2097184375238762747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Slamming China, he said, "I ask you the question, is this the right paper to post to me when I'm being asked a question on the floor? And how will you treat this kind of behavior? It not only disrespects, shows, if this is a Chinese position sent to me, it not only disrespects international law, throwing UNCLOS to the floor and trampling upon it, but it also disrespects the basic decency accorded that should be accorded to our most gracious host, the Republic of Korea and the rest of the audience here," he continued. "So, perhaps basic decency and behavior is what China needs to do. This is actual coercion, bullying and aggression. I will keep this paper as a memento of how desperate China is and how ineffective its position is in the face of a free audience. Thank you very much for the person who gave me this piece of paper. You have just done your country a great service," Teodoro added.&nbsp;

Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro has drawn widespread attention after confronting China at the Seoul Defense Dialogue. The exchange came after he received a note rejecting the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling

Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro has gone viral on internet for standing up against China at a Seoul forum. He was participating in the first plenary session of the Seoul Defense Dialogue, hosted by South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense, which focused on ways to build a more stable international order amid growing geopolitical tensions. The session was intended to promote dialogue and security cooperation among officials and experts from dozens of countries. However, matters took a heated turn while Teodoro was speaking and an official handed over a note to him. The Seoul Defense Dialogue is an annual South Korean security forum launched in 2012 and elevated to ministerial level in 2023. Its 15th edition brought together around 1,000 officials and experts from 67 countries and international organisations. What actually happened?

Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro has drawn widespread attention after confronting China at the Seoul Defense Dialogue. The exchange came after he received a note rejecting the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling

China hands note to Philippines defence chief mid-speech; Teodoro rebuts it point-by-point | WATCH

An Anthropic AI researcher has resigned and issued a stark warning about the future of artificial intelligence, accusing leading AI companies of racing towards self-improving superintelligence without enough safeguards.Jacob Coxon, who said he spent the past three years doing pretraining research at both OpenAI and Anthropic, announced his resignation on X on September 9.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I resigned from Anthropic today. I spent the last three years doing pretraining research at both OpenAI and Anthropic. Neither company is acting responsibly. They are racing straight to self-improving superintelligence and gambling with our lives. More thoughts below.&mdash; Jacob Coxon (@hilbertspaess) <a href="https://x.com/hilbertspaess/status/2097476196791709843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I resigned from Anthropic today,” Coxon wrote. “Neither company is acting responsibly. They are racing straight to self-improving superintelligence and gambling with our lives.”His warning quickly became the focus of a wider debate over how fast frontier AI development should move.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The people building AI earnestly believe that it could kill us all by the end of the decade. This is not a marketing stunt. If anything, many executives and senior researchers will couch their phrasing in the press to sound sensible - but I hear the same people express fear…&mdash; Jacob Coxon (@hilbertspaess) <a href="https://x.com/hilbertspaess/status/2097476203863224394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>‘AI could kill us all by the end of the decade’</h2>Coxon made his most serious claim when discussing what people inside AI companies allegedly believe about the technology. “The people building AI earnestly believe that it could kill us all by the end of the decade,” he wrote.He said this was not a marketing tactic and claimed executives and senior researchers privately express fears that are more severe than their public comments suggest.&nbsp;Coxon also warned against underestimating increasingly capable AI systems.&nbsp;“These will soon be superhuman systems that can hack anything, revolutionize any field overnight, and acquire real power and resources,” he wrote.&nbsp;<h2>Why would companies keep building it?</h2>Coxon addressed the obvious question: if researchers believe the technology could be catastrophic, why continue developing it?He argued that the motivations differ between companies.&nbsp;“At OpenAI, many have not deeply internalized the civilizational stakes,” he wrote. “At Anthropic, the stakes are well-understood, but they are locked in a race to get there first.”He described entering this phase as a “hubristic gamble” and argued that decisions about potentially superintelligent systems should not be made inside private-company Slack channels.&nbsp;<h2>Coxon calls for a different AI path</h2>Coxon said he remains optimistic that AI companies could coordinate rather than race.He called for stronger agreements between leading US AI labs and suggested that extreme measures, including a temporary ban on improving model capabilities, may eventually be necessary.&nbsp;<h2>His final message was aimed directly at AI researchers.</h2>“Do you want to kick off a superintelligent RL run without a rigorous understanding of its mind?” he asked, urging researchers to question whether “it’s happening anyway” is a good enough reason to continue.Coxon’s resignation comes as other researchers publicly debate the risks of recursive self-improvement. Anthropic researcher Evan Hubinger has also said the company does not yet have a clear solution for aligning a future superintelligent system. For the AI industry, Coxon’s departure is therefore more than one researcher leaving a job. It is another public warning from inside a frontier AI lab about whether the race towards increasingly powerful systems is moving faster than humanity’s ability to control them.&nbsp;

Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon has resigned after warning that OpenAI and Anthropic are racing towards self-improving superintelligence. He says people building AI fear it could become catastrophic by the end of the decade and calls for stronger coordination and slower development.

An Anthropic AI researcher has resigned and issued a stark warning about the future of artificial intelligence, accusing leading AI companies of racing towards self-improving superintelligence without enough safeguards. Jacob Coxon, who said he spent the past three years doing pretraining research at both OpenAI and Anthropic, announced his resignation on X on September 9.

Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon has resigned after warning that OpenAI and Anthropic are racing towards self-improving superintelligence. He says people building AI fear it could become catastrophic by the end of the decade and calls for stronger coordination and slower development.

'They are gambling with our lives': Anthropic researcher quits over AI race fears

In its first response against attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, India said that such strikes undermine regional security and threaten freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb strait. India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in government's official response said that India condemns such strikes. Houthis on Tuesday targeted energy facilities belonging to oil giant Saudi Aramco in southern Saudi Arabia as part of a “broad operation.” Saudi authorities said that the strikes triggered fires at multiple oil installations and utility sites and injured 73 people. On Monday, Houthis said that Saudi Arabia launched multiple attacks on Houthi-held areas using aircraft and cruise missiles and struck al-Jawf, al-Bayda, Marib and Taiz provinces.&nbsp;"India condemns attacks on Saudi sovereign territory, especially the targeting of civilian and economic facilities. Attacks that undermine regional security and stability and threaten freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb were unacceptable," ministry of external affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to a media query.&nbsp;The latest crisis has began as a part of escalating tension between the US and Iran, with Iran-backed Houthis now targeting US-ally Saudi. Yemen’s civil war began in 2014, when the Houthis seized the capital, Sanaa, along with large parts of northern Yemen, forcing the internationally recognised government into exile. A Saudi-led coalition, which included the United Arab Emirates, intervened the following year in an effort to restore the government to power. Tensions between the US allies Saudi Arabia and the UAE escalated earlier this year as their partnership in Yemen’s war deteriorated, ultimately prompting the UAE to withdraw from the conflict. The civil war has killed at least 150,000 people, according to UN estimates, and at times pushed Yemen to the brink of famine.

India has condemned Houthi attacks on energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, warning that such strikes undermine regional security and threaten freedom of navigation through the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. New Delhi reiterated its concern over escalating tensions and risks to maritime trade.

In its first response against attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, India said that such strikes undermine regional security and threaten freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb strait. India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in government's official response said that India condemns such strikes. Houthis on Tuesday targeted energy facilities belonging to oil giant Saudi Aramco in southern Saudi Arabia as part of a “broad operation.” Saudi authorities said that the strikes triggered fires at multiple oil installations and utility sites and injured 73 people. On Monday, Houthis said that Saudi Arabia launched multiple attacks on Houthi-held areas using aircraft and cruise missiles and struck al-Jawf, al-Bayda, Marib and Taiz provinces. "India condemns attacks on Saudi sovereign territory, especially the targeting of civilian and economic facilities. Attacks that undermine regional security and stability and threaten freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb were unacceptable," ministry of external affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to a media query. The latest crisis has began as a part of escalating tension between the US and Iran, with Iran-backed Houthis now targeting US-ally Saudi. Yemen’s civil war began in 2014, when the Houthis seized the capital, Sanaa, along with large parts of northern Yemen, forcing the internationally recognised government into exile. A Saudi-led coalition, which included the United Arab Emirates, intervened the following year in an effort to restore the government to power. Tensions between the US allies Saudi Arabia and the UAE escalated earlier this year as their partnership in Yemen’s war deteriorated, ultimately prompting the UAE to withdraw from the conflict. The civil war has killed at least 150,000 people, according to UN estimates, and at times pushed Yemen to the brink of famine.

India has condemned Houthi attacks on energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, warning that such strikes undermine regional security and threaten freedom of navigation through the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. New Delhi reiterated its concern over escalating tensions and risks to maritime trade.

'Undermines security and stability': India condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia

Oil is approaching the psychologically important $100-a-barrel price. Americans are already paying record-high prices for the Labor Day period. This could become a political problem for Trump and the Republican Party as the November midterm elections loom. At the time of writing, Brent futures briefly hit $100 a barrel. The US West Texas Intermediate was around $94.13 on Wednesday (Sep 9). Brent has risen about 25 per cent since early August as renewed fighting with Iran crushed hopes of an end to the six-month conflict. Reports suggested that oil could hit $100 as early as Friday. Here is why it matters for Trump's midterm prospects.&nbsp;<h2>The Iran war is showing up at the pump for Americans</h2>Trump returned to office promising an energy boom, lower prices and inflation relief. The US military adventure in Iran upended these plans, emerging as a major source of uncertainty for the global oil market. Much of the Gulf's critical energy infrastructure is under attack or threat, caused by US strikes, Iranian attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure, and Houthi hits on Saudi targets. Oil shipping is disrupted from the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea and further afield. &nbsp;Iran conflict is leading to supply fears, causing higher crude prices and renewing inflation pressure on the US.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brent-crude-hits-100-per-barrel-after-seven-weeks-as-tension-in-middle-east-escalates-1788940129398">Brent Crude hits $100 per barrel after seven weeks as tension in Middle East escalates</a><h2>$4 gasoline is already a political problem</h2>The national average price of regular gasoline was about $4.15 a gallon around Labor Day, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA), a record for this holiday period. AAA said the national average never exceeded $4 on Labor Day. For diesel prices, the national average climbed to a record of roughly $5.85-$5.90 a gallon. Diesel also powers much of America's freight, agriculture, construction and rail economy. And that could contribute to the inflation problem, as higher diesel and petrol prices hurt household budgets.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/goldman-warns-brent-could-top-120-again-wion-news-world-business-watch-1784783515303/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/goldman-warns-brent-could-top-120-again-wion-news-world-business-watch-1784783515303/embed</a><h2>Oil prices spike: The timing could hardly be worse for Republicans</h2>Republicans are entering the midterms with narrow margins, even as a Reuters/Ipsos poll put Trump approval ratings at just 33 per cent, with only 25 per cent of Americans saying the Iran war is worthwhile. A Financial Times/Focaldata survey found that 57 per cent of voters felt financially worse off under Trump. That is precisely why petrol prices are so dangerous politically.Republicans have spent years telling voters that Democratic policies were responsible for expensive petrol, but that won't wash this election season.Democratic candidates have been using gas prices as a political weapon against Republican incumbents, linking Trump's Iran policy to higher cost of living for Americans.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-prices-jump-over-3-brent-tops-86-after-us-says-it-intercepted-iranian-missile-attack-1785285962484">Oil prices jump over 3% after US says it intercepted Iranian missile attack</a><h2>How oil prices historically affected the prospects of the ruling party</h2>A 2026 Morgan Stanley analysis found that since 1978, midterm cycles in which gasoline prices rose from January of the previous year through October of the election year were associated with an average loss of 32 House seats for the incumbent party, as opposed to lower prices, in which case the average loss was six seats. A TIME analysis said that in the three midterms in which inflation-adjusted oil prices were around or above $100 a barrel, the ruling party lost an average of 29 House seats. An energy shock just ahead of midterms is a scary prospect for the incumbent party.<h2>A looming inflation: Why Trump needs to bring down gas prices</h2>If gasoline prices fall dramatically in October, Trump - who put himself at the centre of the Republican campaign - can point to the decline as evidence that his administration's strategies worked. But if they still hover around $4 or higher, Democrats will be able to tell voters that Trump's war made energy more expensive.But will the market correct itself? Brent repeatedly approached $100 in past months without decisively breaking through it. So far, whatever oil is passing via Hormuz, alternative export routes, rising production outside OPEC and weaker Chinese demand have prevented a larger price shock.But if prolonged disruptions to oil shipments cause Brent to remain around $100, the pinch at the pump could persist. And that could translate into anger against Trump and the Republicans at the elections.

US oil prices are near $100 once again as the Iran conflict disrupts energy supplies. The pinch at the pump and looming inflation could become a political headache for Trump and Republicans ahead of the midterms. Here is how

Oil is approaching the psychologically important $100-a-barrel price. Americans are already paying record-high prices for the Labor Day period. This could become a political problem for Trump and the Republican Party as the November midterm elections loom. At the time of writing, Brent futures briefly hit $100 a barrel. The US West Texas Intermediate was around $94.13 on Wednesday (Sep 9). Brent has risen about 25 per cent since early August as renewed fighting with Iran crushed hopes of an end to the six-month conflict. Reports suggested that oil could hit $100 as early as Friday. Here is why it matters for Trump's midterm prospects. The Iran war is showing up at the pump for Americans Trump returned to office promising an energy boom, lower prices and inflation relief. The US military adventure in Iran upended these plans, emerging as a major source of uncertainty for the global oil market. Much of the Gulf's critical energy infrastructure is under attack or threat, caused by US strikes, Iranian attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure, and Houthi hits on Saudi targets. Oil shipping is disrupted from the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea and further afield. Iran conflict is leading to supply fears, causing higher crude prices and renewing inflation pressure on the US. Also read: Brent Crude hits $100 per barrel after seven weeks as tension in Middle East escalates $4 gasoline is already a political problem The national average price of regular gasoline was about $4.15 a gallon around Labor Day, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA), a record for this holiday period. AAA said the national average never exceeded $4 on Labor Day. For diesel prices, the national average climbed to a record of roughly $5.85-$5.90 a gallon. Diesel also powers much of America's freight, agriculture, construction and rail economy. And that could contribute to the inflation problem, as higher diesel and petrol prices hurt household budgets. https://www.wionews.com/videos/goldman-warns-brent-could-top-120-again-wion-news-world-business-watch-1784783515303/embed Oil prices spike: The timing could hardly be worse for Republicans Republicans are entering the midterms with narrow margins, even as a Reuters/Ipsos poll put Trump approval ratings at just 33 per cent, with only 25 per cent of Americans saying the Iran war is worthwhile. A Financial Times/Focaldata survey found that 57 per cent of voters felt financially worse off under Trump. That is precisely why petrol prices are so dangerous politically. Republicans have spent years telling voters that Democratic policies were responsible for expensive petrol, but that won't wash this election season. Democratic candidates have been using gas prices as a political weapon against Republican incumbents, linking Trump's Iran policy to higher cost of living for Americans. Also read: Oil prices jump over 3% after US says it intercepted Iranian missile attack How oil prices historically affected the prospects of the ruling party A 2026 Morgan Stanley analysis found that since 1978, midterm cycles in which gasoline prices rose from January of the previous year through October of the election year were associated with an average loss of 32 House seats for the incumbent party, as opposed to lower prices, in which case the average loss was six seats. A TIME analysis said that in the three midterms in which inflation-adjusted oil prices were around or above $100 a barrel, the ruling party lost an average of 29 House seats. An energy shock just ahead of midterms is a scary prospect for the incumbent party. A looming inflation: Why Trump needs to bring down gas prices If gasoline prices fall dramatically in October, Trump - who put himself at the centre of the Republican campaign - can point to the decline as evidence that his administration's strategies worked. But if they still hover around $4 or higher, Democrats will be able to tell voters that Trump's war made energy more expensive. But will the market correct itself? Brent repeatedly approached $100 in past months without decisively breaking through it. So far, whatever oil is passing via Hormuz, alternative export routes, rising production outside OPEC and weaker Chinese demand have prevented a larger price shock. But if prolonged disruptions to oil shipments cause Brent to remain around $100, the pinch at the pump could persist. And that could translate into anger against Trump and the Republicans at the elections.

US oil prices are near $100 once again as the Iran conflict disrupts energy supplies. The pinch at the pump and looming inflation could become a political headache for Trump and Republicans ahead of the midterms. Here is how

US oil prices at $100 could be bad news for Trump ahead of midterm elections

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US oil prices at $100 could be bad election news for Trump