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South Korea's opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung remained hospitalised in intensive care on Wednesday, a day after a knife attack on him shocked political leaders who were vying for the upper hand in a major election three months away.

Surgeons operated on Lee for more than two hours late on Tuesday to repair a major blood vessel in his neck that was sliced when an assailant lunged and stabbed him with a knife.

"The act of terror against Chairman Lee Jae-myung was clearly a challenge against democracy and a threat against democracy," Democratic Party floor leader Hong Ik-pyo said at a party leadership council meeting.

He urged a speedy investigation and tougher security for high-profile political figures, echoing renewed questions about the safety on campaign trails in a country with a history of political violence despite tight restrictions on gun ownership.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-qasem-soleimani-the-mighty-iranian-general-who-controlled-proxy-militias-across-middle-east-676271">Who was Qasem Soleimani? The mighty Iranian general who controlled proxy militias across Middle East</a>

Jin Jeong-hwa, a party supporter who was a witness at the scene of the stabbing, said the incident clearly showed the need for stronger and professional security protection for political leaders, not simply police who are deployed to monitor.

"People like opposition leaders really need a dedicated security detail," Jin said in an interview with Reuters. He added it was clear from his experience at political events that Lee was very much exposed to personal safety threats.

Lee, a tough talking progressive who narrowly lost the 2022 presidential election, had been rallying the party to retain the parliamentary majority it holds against President Yoon Suk Yeol's conservatives.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-another-blast-heard-near-grave-of-general-qasem-soleimani-676221">Iran says 103 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani's grave</a>

South Korea holds a pivotal election on April 10 where the conservatives will try to win back a majority for the first time since 2016 and help Yoon's pro-business policies including tax cuts, deregulation and social reforms.

The attack against Lee, which unfolded quickly but was widely captured in footage of the outdoors public event, shocked his party and his rivals alike, who condemned all violence against political figures.

Yoon again condemned the attack as "terror" and said: "It is an enemy of liberal democracy," according to his office. He wished Lee a speedy recovery, it said.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-politics-explainer-sheikh-hasinas-political-journey-675994">Bangladesh Politics Explainer: Sheikh Hasina's political journey</a>

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Lee was airlifted from Busan, where the attack occurred, to Seoul on Tuesday where he underwent surgery to reconstruct the jugular vein that pumps blood from the head back to the heart and insert a tube to support the damaged vessel.

He was conscious and recovering in the intensive care unit, party officials said.

The suspect, who was quickly subdued by party members and police officers at the scene, was a man born in 1957 from the central region who may have been in Busan for days, planning the attack with an 18-cm (7-inch) camping knife, police and news reports said.

He remains in police custody. The police have not commented on the detail of the investigation including a possible motive.

Investigators searched the suspect's home and office in the city of Asan, more than 300 km (186 miles) from the site of the attack, Yonhap news reported.

The leader of the conservative People Power Party scaled back scheduled public events, and both parties urged members to refrain from comments that could inflame voters as Lee recuperates.

Lee lost to Yoon by less than 1% point of votes, the narrowest margin, in a bitterly fought presidential election and has since faced bribery allegations stemming from a development project when he was mayor of a city near Seoul. He denies wrongdoing.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

South Korea's opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung remained hospitalised in intensive care on Wednesday, a day after a knife attack on him shocked political leaders who were vying for the upper hand in a major election three months away.

South Korea's opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung remained hospitalised in intensive care on Wednesday, a day after a knife attack on him shocked political leaders who were vying for the upper hand in a major election three months away. Surgeons operated on Lee for more than two hours late on Tuesday to repair a major blood vessel in his neck that was sliced when an assailant lunged and stabbed him with a knife. "The act of terror against Chairman Lee Jae-myung was clearly a challenge against democracy and a threat against democracy," Democratic Party floor leader Hong Ik-pyo said at a party leadership council meeting. He urged a speedy investigation and tougher security for high-profile political figures, echoing renewed questions about the safety on campaign trails in a country with a history of political violence despite tight restrictions on gun ownership. Also Read | Who was Qasem Soleimani? The mighty Iranian general who controlled proxy militias across Middle East Jin Jeong-hwa, a party supporter who was a witness at the scene of the stabbing, said the incident clearly showed the need for stronger and professional security protection for political leaders, not simply police who are deployed to monitor. "People like opposition leaders really need a dedicated security detail," Jin said in an interview with Reuters. He added it was clear from his experience at political events that Lee was very much exposed to personal safety threats. Lee, a tough talking progressive who narrowly lost the 2022 presidential election, had been rallying the party to retain the parliamentary majority it holds against President Yoon Suk Yeol's conservatives. Also Read | Iran says 103 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani's grave South Korea holds a pivotal election on April 10 where the conservatives will try to win back a majority for the first time since 2016 and help Yoon's pro-business policies including tax cuts, deregulation and social reforms. The attack against Lee, which unfolded quickly but was widely captured in footage of the outdoors public event, shocked his party and his rivals alike, who condemned all violence against political figures. Yoon again condemned the attack as "terror" and said: "It is an enemy of liberal democracy," according to his office. He wished Lee a speedy recovery, it said. Watch | Bangladesh Politics Explainer: Sheikh Hasina's political journey × Lee was airlifted from Busan, where the attack occurred, to Seoul on Tuesday where he underwent surgery to reconstruct the jugular vein that pumps blood from the head back to the heart and insert a tube to support the damaged vessel. He was conscious and recovering in the intensive care unit, party officials said. The suspect, who was quickly subdued by party members and police officers at the scene, was a man born in 1957 from the central region who may have been in Busan for days, planning the attack with an 18-cm (7-inch) camping knife, police and news reports said. He remains in police custody. The police have not commented on the detail of the investigation including a possible motive. Investigators searched the suspect's home and office in the city of Asan, more than 300 km (186 miles) from the site of the attack, Yonhap news reported. The leader of the conservative People Power Party scaled back scheduled public events, and both parties urged members to refrain from comments that could inflame voters as Lee recuperates. Lee lost to Yoon by less than 1% point of votes, the narrowest margin, in a bitterly fought presidential election and has since faced bribery allegations stemming from a development project when he was mayor of a city near Seoul. He denies wrongdoing. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea opposition leader in ICU after knife attack amid calls for stronger security

A Japan Airlines plane burst into flames after landing at Tokyo’s Haneda airport on Tuesday. The airplane crashed with a coast guard plane on the runway. Five people were found dead in this plane collision.

Japan: Probe underway in Japan plane collision; 5 killed in Coast Guard aircraft

According to reports, an Israeli drone strike hit Beirut's southern suburb. The explosion shook Beirut's southern suburb of Musharafieh. UN urges 'maximum restraint' as Beirut blast kills Hamas leader.

Senior Hamas Chief killed in Beirut by Israeli drone strike | Hamas says his killing is 'terror act'

The Lebanese security agencies on Tuesday (Jan 2) confirmed that Hamas' deputy head,&nbsp;Saleh al-Arouri, was killed in Israeli strikes in&nbsp;the&nbsp;southern suburbs of Beirut.

Al-Arouri died in a drone strike which landed at a Hamas office in&nbsp;Dahiyeh, a&nbsp;Hezbollah (Iran-backed terror outfit based in Lebanon) stronghold. Hamas later confirmed his death, calling it a&nbsp;“cowardly assassination” by Israel.

<h2>Who was Saleh al-Arouri?&nbsp;</h2>

Al-Arouri was elected as the deputy chairman of Hamas' political bureau in 2017. Soon after his election, he visited Tehran to strengthen ties with Iran and met with the head of&nbsp;Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah.

His immediate trip to Tehran helped forge a closer relationship between Hamas and Hezbollah in the years to come.&nbsp;

Notably, al-Arouri was killed on the eve of the fourth anniversary of the US killing of&nbsp;Qasem Soleimani. Some believe the timing was deliberate to send a message to Gaza, Beirut and Tehran simultaneously.&nbsp;

Apart from being the deputy chief of Hamas' political bureau, al-Arouri was also one of the founders of the group's armed&nbsp;wing, the&nbsp;Qassam Brigades.&nbsp;

According to reports, al-Arouri had spent 15 years in an Israeli jail and had been living in exile in Lebanon after his release. Immediately after the October 7 strikes, Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu threatened to kill him. Notably, al-Arouri was seen meeting Nasrallah and Ziad Nakhale, the secretary general of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, another Gaza-based terror&nbsp;group.

The US State Department has offered a bounty of up to $5 million for information on al-Arouri's whereabouts for years.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-deputy-hamas-chief-saleh-al-arouri-killed-in-beirut-attack-676019">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Deputy Hamas Chief Saleh Al-Arouri killed in Beirut attack</a>

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<h2>Hamas warns of response</h2>

After the attack that killed one of its biggest leaders, Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in a televised address said the Palestinian terror group "will never be defeated".&nbsp;

"A movement whose leaders and founders fall as martyrs for the dignity of our people and our nation will never be defeated," Haniyeh said in a televised address.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-israel-has-killed-groups-deputy-head-in-beirut-675960">Also read |&nbsp;War in Gaza: Hamas says its deputy head killed in ‘treacherous Zionist strike’</a>

Lebanon Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the incident, saying the attack "aims to draw Lebanon" further into the Israel-Hamas war.

While Israel is yet to officially comment on al-Arouri's death,&nbsp;Mark Regev, an adviser to Netanyahu, told the US outlet MSNBC that Israel does not take responsibility for this attack.&nbsp;

“Whoever did it, it must be clear: this was not an attack on the Lebanese state.&nbsp;Whoever did this did a surgical strike against the Hamas leadership," he added.&nbsp;

Since the war first broke out, Israel has killed more than 22,000 Palestinians, as per the Hamas-run health ministry,&nbsp;while over 1,400 Israelis, mostly civilians have lost their lives.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Lebanese security agencies on Tuesday (Jan 2) confirmed that Hamas' deputy head, Saleh al-Arouri, was killed in Israeli strikes in the southern suburbs of Beirut.

The Lebanese security agencies on Tuesday (Jan 2) confirmed that Hamas' deputy head, Saleh al-Arouri, was killed in Israeli strikes in the southern suburbs of Beirut. Al-Arouri died in a drone strike which landed at a Hamas office in Dahiyeh, a Hezbollah (Iran-backed terror outfit based in Lebanon) stronghold. Hamas later confirmed his death, calling it a “cowardly assassination” by Israel. Who was Saleh al-Arouri? Al-Arouri was elected as the deputy chairman of Hamas' political bureau in 2017. Soon after his election, he visited Tehran to strengthen ties with Iran and met with the head of Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah. His immediate trip to Tehran helped forge a closer relationship between Hamas and Hezbollah in the years to come. Notably, al-Arouri was killed on the eve of the fourth anniversary of the US killing of Qasem Soleimani. Some believe the timing was deliberate to send a message to Gaza, Beirut and Tehran simultaneously. Apart from being the deputy chief of Hamas' political bureau, al-Arouri was also one of the founders of the group's armed wing, the Qassam Brigades. According to reports, al-Arouri had spent 15 years in an Israeli jail and had been living in exile in Lebanon after his release. Immediately after the October 7 strikes, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened to kill him. Notably, al-Arouri was seen meeting Nasrallah and Ziad Nakhale, the secretary general of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, another Gaza-based terror group. The US State Department has offered a bounty of up to $5 million for information on al-Arouri's whereabouts for years. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Deputy Hamas Chief Saleh Al-Arouri killed in Beirut attack × Hamas warns of response After the attack that killed one of its biggest leaders, Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in a televised address said the Palestinian terror group "will never be defeated". "A movement whose leaders and founders fall as martyrs for the dignity of our people and our nation will never be defeated," Haniyeh said in a televised address. Also read | War in Gaza: Hamas says its deputy head killed in ‘treacherous Zionist strike’ Lebanon Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the incident, saying the attack "aims to draw Lebanon" further into the Israel-Hamas war. While Israel is yet to officially comment on al-Arouri's death, Mark Regev, an adviser to Netanyahu, told the US outlet MSNBC that Israel does not take responsibility for this attack. “Whoever did it, it must be clear: this was not an attack on the Lebanese state. Whoever did this did a surgical strike against the Hamas leadership," he added. Since the war first broke out, Israel has killed more than 22,000 Palestinians, as per the Hamas-run health ministry, while over 1,400 Israelis, mostly civilians have lost their lives. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Who was Saleh al-Arouri, the senior Hamas official killed in strikes in Beirut?

In a disturbing incident just hours before a government ban on XL bully-type dogs, a severely abused dog was discovered burnt and mutilated in a south London alleyway. The RSPCA reported that the male dog, exhibiting characteristics of the XL bully breed, had been set on fire, had one ear cut off, and was found dead with its legs tied together. The harrowing photos provided by the animal welfare charity showed the dog with badly burnt front feet, lying in front of garages in Waltham Road, Carshalton.

A member of the public stumbled upon this gruesome scene on Saturday (Dec&nbsp;30), in the residential area. The initial investigation by the RSPCA revealed that the dog had escaped from its garden during the recent storms when a fence was blown down.

<h2>Details of the brutal attack</h2>

RSPCA inspector Harriet Daliday, currently leading the investigation told The Standard&nbsp;that the dog also had a fractured skull, though it remains unclear whether this injury resulted from a car accident or was inflicted deliberately.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-sunaks-ban-internet-floods-with-ads-of-american-xl-bully-at-dirt-cheap-prices-654466">Also read |&nbsp;After Sunak's ban, internet is flooded with sale ads for American XL Bully dogs at dirt-cheap prices</a>

<h2>Government ban: New rules for XL bully dogs</h2>

Coincidentally, the discovery occurred just before the enforcement of new rules governing the ownership of XL bully dogs.

These regulations, effective from December 31, make it illegal to breed, sell, advertise, exchange, gift, rehome, abandon, or allow XL bully dogs to stray in England and Wales. Additionally, these dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public spaces.

Starting from February 1, owning an XL bully dog in England and Wales without a certificate will become a criminal offence. The breed has been added to the government's banned breeds list, which already includes the pit bull terrier, Japanese Tosa, Fila Brasileiro, and Dogo Argentino. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took this step on October 31 following a concerning increase in fatal attacks by XL bully dogs.

Also watch |&nbsp;UK: American XL Bully Dogs to be banned; PM Sunak says, 'urgent need to ban this crossbreed'

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Animal welfare groups have expressed apprehensions about the ban, fearing it may overwhelm vets and rescue centers. The RSPCA emphasised that such measures are not the solution and warned of a "huge risk" that rescue centers and vets might struggle to cope with the anticipated surge in demand.

In the wake of the breed ban announcement, there has been a notable surge in abandonment and abuse cases. Disturbing footage surfaced in November of a man allegedly beating an XL bully with a shovel in east London, adding urgency to concerns surrounding the ban's consequences.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a disturbing incident just hours before a government ban on XL bully-type dogs, a severely abused dog was discovered burnt and mutilated in a south London alleyway.

In a disturbing incident just hours before a government ban on XL bully-type dogs, a severely abused dog was discovered burnt and mutilated in a south London alleyway. The RSPCA reported that the male dog, exhibiting characteristics of the XL bully breed, had been set on fire, had one ear cut off, and was found dead with its legs tied together. The harrowing photos provided by the animal welfare charity showed the dog with badly burnt front feet, lying in front of garages in Waltham Road, Carshalton. A member of the public stumbled upon this gruesome scene on Saturday (Dec 30), in the residential area. The initial investigation by the RSPCA revealed that the dog had escaped from its garden during the recent storms when a fence was blown down. Details of the brutal attack RSPCA inspector Harriet Daliday, currently leading the investigation told The Standard that the dog also had a fractured skull, though it remains unclear whether this injury resulted from a car accident or was inflicted deliberately. Also read | After Sunak's ban, internet is flooded with sale ads for American XL Bully dogs at dirt-cheap prices Government ban: New rules for XL bully dogs Coincidentally, the discovery occurred just before the enforcement of new rules governing the ownership of XL bully dogs. These regulations, effective from December 31, make it illegal to breed, sell, advertise, exchange, gift, rehome, abandon, or allow XL bully dogs to stray in England and Wales. Additionally, these dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public spaces. Starting from February 1, owning an XL bully dog in England and Wales without a certificate will become a criminal offence. The breed has been added to the government's banned breeds list, which already includes the pit bull terrier, Japanese Tosa, Fila Brasileiro, and Dogo Argentino. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took this step on October 31 following a concerning increase in fatal attacks by XL bully dogs. Also watch | UK: American XL Bully Dogs to be banned; PM Sunak says, 'urgent need to ban this crossbreed' Animal welfare groups have expressed apprehensions about the ban, fearing it may overwhelm vets and rescue centers. The RSPCA emphasised that such measures are not the solution and warned of a "huge risk" that rescue centers and vets might struggle to cope with the anticipated surge in demand. In the wake of the breed ban announcement, there has been a notable surge in abandonment and abuse cases. Disturbing footage surfaced in November of a man allegedly beating an XL bully with a shovel in east London, adding urgency to concerns surrounding the ban's consequences. (With inputs from agencies)

XL bully dog found burnt, mutilated in south London just hours before breed ban enforcement

A Spanish soccer fan who spent at least 15 months in Iranian prison returned home in Madrid on Tuesday. Santiago Sanchez was detained by Iranian authorities espionage charges after visiting and photograohing the burial site of Mahsa Amini.

Iran releases Spanish prisoner Santiago Sanchez held for a year for visiting Mahsa Amini's grave

Putin vows revenge for strikes on Russia. The Russian missiles attacked homes near Kyiv, causing widespread damage. Watch the video to get more insights!

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow launches missile attacks on Ukraine

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that rocked Japan's Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, rescuers are tirelessly searching for survivors even as the death toll reached&nbsp;62.

On Wednesday, the regional government announced that 62 people have been confirmed dead. Additionally, more than 300 people have been injured, 20 of them seriously.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/powerful-earthquake-in-japan-may-have-shifted-land-by-13-metres-675903">Powerful earthquake in Japan may have shifted land by 1.3 metres</a>

Authorities have warned of landslides and heavy rain in the aftermath of the earthquake. Monday's 7.5-magnitude quake has already caused tsunamis over a metre&nbsp;high, leading to widespread destruction, major fires, and damaged roads. The Noto Peninsula, particularly towns like Wajima and Suzu, suffered significant losses, with buildings getting ravaged by fire and houses flattened.

<h2>Rescue efforts continue</h2>

As per AFP, the rescue efforts continue, however, challenges like aftershocks and adverse weather conditions make the situation difficult. The toll is expected to increase as rescuers continue to comb through rubble amid poor weather.

The operation is being undertaken as extra urgent&nbsp;due to the Japan Meteorological Agency's (JMA) heavy rain warning in the area.

"Be on the lookout for landslides until the evening of Wednesday," it said.

Over 31,800 individuals are in shelters, and there's a heightened risk of landslides due to heavy rain, said the government.

Stressing the urgency of rescue operations, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday said: "More than 40 hours have passed since the disaster. We have received a lot of information about people in need of rescue and there are people waiting for help."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-earthquake-japan-earthquake-response-japan-earthquake-evacuation-675955">Explained | How does Japan maintain its stoic resilience amid major earthquakes?</a>

"Rescue efforts are being made by the local authorities, police, firefighters, and other operational units, while the number of personnel and rescue dogs is enhanced.&nbsp;

"However, we ask you to remain fully mindful that we are in a race against time and to continue to do your utmost to save lives, putting people's lives first," said Kishida after an emergency task force meeting.

As per the US Geological Survey, the quake had a magnitude of 7.5, while the JMA measured it at 7.6.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that rocked Japan's Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, rescuers are tirelessly searching for survivors even as the death toll reached 62.

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that rocked Japan's Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, rescuers are tirelessly searching for survivors even as the death toll reached 62. On Wednesday, the regional government announced that 62 people have been confirmed dead. Additionally, more than 300 people have been injured, 20 of them seriously. Also read | Powerful earthquake in Japan may have shifted land by 1.3 metres Authorities have warned of landslides and heavy rain in the aftermath of the earthquake. Monday's 7.5-magnitude quake has already caused tsunamis over a metre high, leading to widespread destruction, major fires, and damaged roads. The Noto Peninsula, particularly towns like Wajima and Suzu, suffered significant losses, with buildings getting ravaged by fire and houses flattened. Rescue efforts continue As per AFP, the rescue efforts continue, however, challenges like aftershocks and adverse weather conditions make the situation difficult. The toll is expected to increase as rescuers continue to comb through rubble amid poor weather. The operation is being undertaken as extra urgent due to the Japan Meteorological Agency's (JMA) heavy rain warning in the area. "Be on the lookout for landslides until the evening of Wednesday," it said. Over 31,800 individuals are in shelters, and there's a heightened risk of landslides due to heavy rain, said the government. Stressing the urgency of rescue operations, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday said: "More than 40 hours have passed since the disaster. We have received a lot of information about people in need of rescue and there are people waiting for help." Also read | Explained | How does Japan maintain its stoic resilience amid major earthquakes? "Rescue efforts are being made by the local authorities, police, firefighters, and other operational units, while the number of personnel and rescue dogs is enhanced. "However, we ask you to remain fully mindful that we are in a race against time and to continue to do your utmost to save lives, putting people's lives first," said Kishida after an emergency task force meeting. As per the US Geological Survey, the quake had a magnitude of 7.5, while the JMA measured it at 7.6. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan earthquake casualties increase to 62; aftershocks and bad weather aggravate situation

More than 100 people were killed in Iran after two bombs exploded during a ceremony commemorating slain general Qasem Soleimani on the anniversary of his killing

Blasts near Iranian guards commander Soleimani's tomb

Israel in talks with Congo and other countries on Gaza ‘voluntary migration’ plan. Senior official says Jerusalem working on postwar resettlement of Palestinians from strip; Some ministers tout saudi Arabia as destination for Gazans seeking construction work

After 'living in the open' who will shelter the displaced Gazans?

Japan Airlines plane collision: Probe underway; 5 killed as plane collides with Coast Guard plane

China has unveiled a chilling new weapon. It is an electric warfare weapon which can launch multiple focused beams of electromagnetic weapons. How will China use this weapon?

China's next generation weapons technology: New weapon of the 21st century | World News | WION

Hamas' deputy leader Saleh Al-Arouri killed in Beirut attack | Israel-Hamas War

An Israeli government spokesman said on Tuesday (Jan 2) that the nation will appear before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague to oppose South Africa's genocide allegations over the war with Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

Last week on Friday, South Africa asked the ICJ for an urgent decision to declare that Israel's onslaught on Hamas violated its obligations under the 1948 Genocide Convention.&nbsp;

In an online briefing, spokesman Eylon Levy said: "The State of Israel will appear before the International Court of Justice at The Hague to dispel South Africa's absurd blood libel."&nbsp;

"We assure South Africa's leaders, history will judge you, and it will judge you without mercy," Levy added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-israel-has-killed-groups-deputy-head-in-beirut-675960">Hamas says its deputy head killed in ‘treacherous Zionist strike’</a>&nbsp;

During the course of the war which started after the October 7 attack by Hamas militants, Israel has often been accused of committing genocide, which it denies.&nbsp;

The intentional killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group is regarded as genocide.&nbsp;

The United Nations Genocide Convention in 1948 defined genocide as any of five "acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group".&nbsp;

For years, South Africa has supported Palestinian sovereignty in Israeli-occupied lands and also compared Palestinians' predicament to that of South Africa's black majority during apartheid.&nbsp;

Lawyers representing South Africa are preparing for the hearing scheduled on Jan&nbsp;11 and 12, Clayson Monyela, a spokesperson for South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation, said in a post on X.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-to-continue-throughout-2024-says-israeli-army-spokesperson-675757">Israel-Hamas war to continue 'throughout' 2024, says Israeli Army spokesperson</a>&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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<h2>Hamas 'open' to one Palestinian govt for Gaza and West Bank&nbsp;</h2>

Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh said Tuesday he is open to a single Palestinian administration to govern Gaza, which is ruled by the militant group, and the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;

"We have received numerous initiatives concerning the internal (Palestinian) situation and we are open to the idea of a national government for the West Bank and Gaza," Haniyeh said in a televised address.&nbsp;

<h2>October 7 attack&nbsp;</h2>

The cross-border attack by the Hamas militants triggered the Israel-Hamas war. Israel says the attack killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The gunmen also kidnapped about 250 people as hostages and took them back to Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

In a sigh of relief, the two sides agreed to a week-long truce during which Hamas released 105 hostages, mostly women and children, and Israel freed 240 Palestinian prisoners. But the war continued when the truce ended.&nbsp;

Palestinian health officials have said that more than 22,000 have been killed people so far in the retaliation by Israel.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An Israeli government spokesman said on Tuesday (Jan 2) that the nation will appear before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague to oppose South Africa's genocide allegations over the war with Hamas in Gaza.

An Israeli government spokesman said on Tuesday (Jan 2) that the nation will appear before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague to oppose South Africa's genocide allegations over the war with Hamas in Gaza. Last week on Friday, South Africa asked the ICJ for an urgent decision to declare that Israel's onslaught on Hamas violated its obligations under the 1948 Genocide Convention. In an online briefing, spokesman Eylon Levy said: "The State of Israel will appear before the International Court of Justice at The Hague to dispel South Africa's absurd blood libel." "We assure South Africa's leaders, history will judge you, and it will judge you without mercy," Levy added. Also read: Hamas says its deputy head killed in ‘treacherous Zionist strike’ During the course of the war which started after the October 7 attack by Hamas militants, Israel has often been accused of committing genocide, which it denies. The intentional killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group is regarded as genocide. The United Nations Genocide Convention in 1948 defined genocide as any of five "acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group". For years, South Africa has supported Palestinian sovereignty in Israeli-occupied lands and also compared Palestinians' predicament to that of South Africa's black majority during apartheid. Lawyers representing South Africa are preparing for the hearing scheduled on Jan 11 and 12, Clayson Monyela, a spokesperson for South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation, said in a post on X. Also read: Israel-Hamas war to continue 'throughout' 2024, says Israeli Army spokesperson Watch this report: × Hamas 'open' to one Palestinian govt for Gaza and West Bank Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh said Tuesday he is open to a single Palestinian administration to govern Gaza, which is ruled by the militant group, and the occupied West Bank. "We have received numerous initiatives concerning the internal (Palestinian) situation and we are open to the idea of a national government for the West Bank and Gaza," Haniyeh said in a televised address. October 7 attack The cross-border attack by the Hamas militants triggered the Israel-Hamas war. Israel says the attack killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The gunmen also kidnapped about 250 people as hostages and took them back to Gaza Strip. In a sigh of relief, the two sides agreed to a week-long truce during which Hamas released 105 hostages, mostly women and children, and Israel freed 240 Palestinian prisoners. But the war continued when the truce ended. Palestinian health officials have said that more than 22,000 have been killed people so far in the retaliation by Israel. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel to appear before ICJ to counter South Africa's case over Gaza war

The United States slammed recent remarks made by Israeli far-right ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir advocating for the resettlement of Palestinians outside Gaza. The comments from ministers appear to underscore fears in much of Arab world that Israel wants to drive Palestinians out.

Israel-Hamas war: Is this Israeli bid to clear Palestinians from Gaza?

China's next generation weapons technology: New weapon of the 21st century

The president of&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;University resigned Tuesday after coming under ferocious attack over plagiarism accusations and her response to anti-Semitism on campus amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Claudine Gay was criticized in recent months after reports surfaced alleging that she did not properly cite scholarly sources. The most recent accusations came Tuesday, published anonymously in a conservative online outlet.

Gay was also engulfed by scandal after she declined to say unequivocally whether calling for genocide of Jews would violate&nbsp;Harvard's code of conduct, during testimony to Congress alongside the heads of MIT and the University of Pennsylvania last month.

Gay, who made history as the first Black person to be president of the powerhouse university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, said in her resignation letter that she'd been subjected to personal threats and "racial animus."

Her downfall comes after the university's governing&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;Corporation had initially backed her after the public relations disaster of the congressional testimony.

But the body did criticize the university's initial response to the Hamas October 7 attacks that Israel said killed 1,140 people inside Israel and saw around 240 people taken hostage.

Israel's offensive has reduced much of Gaza to rubble and killed at least 22,185 people, mostly women and children, according to Gaza's health ministry.&nbsp;

<h2>'Racist vitriol'&nbsp;</h2>

More than 70 lawmakers, including two Democrats, demanded her resignation, while a number of high-profile&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;alumni and donors also called for her departure.

Still, more than 700&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;faculty members had signed a letter supporting Gay and her job had appeared to be safe.

The resignation, first reported by the student-run newspaper the&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;Crimson, was confirmed shortly after by Gay herself.

"It is with a heavy heart but a deep love for&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;that I write to share that I will be stepping down as president," Gay said in a statement.

Gay also wrote that she had faced threats to her safety and "racial animus" in the wake of the furore over her handling of claims of mounting anti-Semitism on campus.

The university's governing&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;Corporation said that Gay had "shown remarkable resilience in the face of deeply personal and sustained attacks."&nbsp;

"While some of this has played out in the public domain, much of it has taken the form of repugnant and in some cases racist vitriol directed at her through disgraceful emails and phone calls. We condemn such attacks."

In the United States, the anti-Semitism on campus controversy came amid a rise in attacks and violent rhetoric targeting Jews and Muslims, including at universities, since the Israel-Hamas war erupted.

The president of another elite Ivy League institution, the University of Pennsylvania, had already been forced to resign.

The House Republican who challenged Gay out during her testimony with the question about whether free speech extended to calling for genocide of Jews celebrated the latest academic's downfall.

"Harvard&nbsp;knows that this long overdue forced resignation of the antisemitic plagiarist president is just the beginning of what will be the greatest scandal of any college or university in history," said Representative Elise Stefanik.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, a close US ally, has claimed that a "whopping wave of anti-Semitism" has "seeped onto university campuses."

Yad Vashem, Israel's official Holocaust memorial, has described it as a "cancer."

Former student and multi-million-dollar donor Bill Ackman claimed in a letter to&nbsp;Harvard's governing boards that "President Gay's failures have led to billions of dollars of cancelled, paused, and withdrawn donations to the university."

Gay, 53, was born in New York to Haitian immigrants and is a professor of political science who in July became the first Black president of 368-year-old&nbsp;Harvard.

"Leadership failure and denial of anti-Semitism have a price. Hope glorious&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;University learns from this dismal conduct," wrote new Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz in response to Gay's departure.

The president of Harvard University resigned Tuesday after coming under ferocious attack over plagiarism accusations and her response to anti-Semitism on campus amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The president of Harvard University resigned Tuesday after coming under ferocious attack over plagiarism accusations and her response to anti-Semitism on campus amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Claudine Gay was criticized in recent months after reports surfaced alleging that she did not properly cite scholarly sources. The most recent accusations came Tuesday, published anonymously in a conservative online outlet. Gay was also engulfed by scandal after she declined to say unequivocally whether calling for genocide of Jews would violate Harvard's code of conduct, during testimony to Congress alongside the heads of MIT and the University of Pennsylvania last month. Gay, who made history as the first Black person to be president of the powerhouse university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, said in her resignation letter that she'd been subjected to personal threats and "racial animus." Her downfall comes after the university's governing Harvard Corporation had initially backed her after the public relations disaster of the congressional testimony. But the body did criticize the university's initial response to the Hamas October 7 attacks that Israel said killed 1,140 people inside Israel and saw around 240 people taken hostage. Israel's offensive has reduced much of Gaza to rubble and killed at least 22,185 people, mostly women and children, according to Gaza's health ministry. 'Racist vitriol' More than 70 lawmakers, including two Democrats, demanded her resignation, while a number of high-profile Harvard alumni and donors also called for her departure. Still, more than 700 Harvard faculty members had signed a letter supporting Gay and her job had appeared to be safe. The resignation, first reported by the student-run newspaper the Harvard Crimson, was confirmed shortly after by Gay herself. "It is with a heavy heart but a deep love for Harvard that I write to share that I will be stepping down as president," Gay said in a statement. Gay also wrote that she had faced threats to her safety and "racial animus" in the wake of the furore over her handling of claims of mounting anti-Semitism on campus. The university's governing Harvard Corporation said that Gay had "shown remarkable resilience in the face of deeply personal and sustained attacks." "While some of this has played out in the public domain, much of it has taken the form of repugnant and in some cases racist vitriol directed at her through disgraceful emails and phone calls. We condemn such attacks." In the United States, the anti-Semitism on campus controversy came amid a rise in attacks and violent rhetoric targeting Jews and Muslims, including at universities, since the Israel-Hamas war erupted. The president of another elite Ivy League institution, the University of Pennsylvania, had already been forced to resign. The House Republican who challenged Gay out during her testimony with the question about whether free speech extended to calling for genocide of Jews celebrated the latest academic's downfall. "Harvard knows that this long overdue forced resignation of the antisemitic plagiarist president is just the beginning of what will be the greatest scandal of any college or university in history," said Representative Elise Stefanik. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, a close US ally, has claimed that a "whopping wave of anti-Semitism" has "seeped onto university campuses." Yad Vashem, Israel's official Holocaust memorial, has described it as a "cancer." Former student and multi-million-dollar donor Bill Ackman claimed in a letter to Harvard's governing boards that "President Gay's failures have led to billions of dollars of cancelled, paused, and withdrawn donations to the university." Gay, 53, was born in New York to Haitian immigrants and is a professor of political science who in July became the first Black president of 368-year-old Harvard. "Leadership failure and denial of anti-Semitism have a price. Hope glorious Harvard University learns from this dismal conduct," wrote new Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz in response to Gay's departure.

Harvard president resigns after row over plagiarism, antisemitism

Russia claimed on Tuesday (Jan 2) that Ukrainian strikes on the border Belgorod region killed at least one person and wounded five.&nbsp;

On social media, Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said: "There is one victim: a man who was driving in a car when a shell exploded nearby." Gladkov added that four people were wounded near a car garage and one woman was wounded when debris fell on the bus she was in.&nbsp;

On the same day, Russia pounded Ukraine's two biggest cities in a new wave of heavy air strikes, which killed at least five civilians.&nbsp;

Ukrainian officials claimed that the missile and drone attacks on the capital of Kyiv and the northeastern city of Kharkiv also wounded dozens of people, and caused widespread damage. The power supplies were also destroyed.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-drone-shot-down-over-air-base-housing-us-forces-in-northern-iraq-675896">Armed drone shot down over air base housing US forces in northern Iraq</a>&nbsp;

The Russia-Ukraine war remained a stalemate the entire year with the world's concentration getting diverted to the conflict in West Asia, but in the last few days, Russia intensified its attacks, with President Vladimir Putin warning on Monday that a Ukrainian air strike on the Russian city of Belgorod recently, which Moscow said killed 25 civilians, would "not go unpunished".&nbsp;

In the latest development, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said that an elderly woman had been killed and 49 people hurt in Kyiv. He stated that smoke was seen coming out of the charred side of a high-rise residential building. Emergency services later recovered another corpse from the building.&nbsp;

Local officials said that a 91-year-old woman was killed in a missile strike on Kharkiv. A married couple was killed in an attack in the area around Kyiv.&nbsp;

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Telegram that "Russia will answer for every life (that it has) taken away".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-over-50-suffer-carbon-monoxide-poisoning-during-church-service-in-utah-675893">Over 50 suffer carbon monoxide poisoning during church service in Utah</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine pounded with missiles and drones, as Putin vows revenge&nbsp;

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<h2>Russian strikes on Ukraine&nbsp;</h2>

Russia has stepped up missile and drone strikes in the past few days.&nbsp;It launched one of its largest air attacks of the war on December 29, killing&nbsp;at least 39 people. Kyiv had warned for weeks that Russia appeared to be stockpiling missiles for big attacks.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Zelensky said that the Russian forces are suffering heavy losses and the notion that Moscow is winning the nearly two-year-old war is only a "feeling" not based on reality.

"Thousands, thousands of killed Russian soldiers, nobody even took them away," he told The Economist magazine in an interview published on Monday. As per the report, he was referring to fighting around the besieged eastern town of Avdiivka which he visited last week.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia claimed on Tuesday (Jan 2) that Ukrainian strikes on the border Belgorod region killed at least one person and wounded five. On social media, Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said: "There is one victim: a man who was driving in a car when a shell exploded nearby.

Russia claimed on Tuesday (Jan 2) that Ukrainian strikes on the border Belgorod region killed at least one person and wounded five. On social media, Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said: "There is one victim: a man who was driving in a car when a shell exploded nearby." Gladkov added that four people were wounded near a car garage and one woman was wounded when debris fell on the bus she was in. On the same day, Russia pounded Ukraine's two biggest cities in a new wave of heavy air strikes, which killed at least five civilians. Ukrainian officials claimed that the missile and drone attacks on the capital of Kyiv and the northeastern city of Kharkiv also wounded dozens of people, and caused widespread damage. The power supplies were also destroyed. Also read: Armed drone shot down over air base housing US forces in northern Iraq The Russia-Ukraine war remained a stalemate the entire year with the world's concentration getting diverted to the conflict in West Asia, but in the last few days, Russia intensified its attacks, with President Vladimir Putin warning on Monday that a Ukrainian air strike on the Russian city of Belgorod recently, which Moscow said killed 25 civilians, would "not go unpunished". In the latest development, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said that an elderly woman had been killed and 49 people hurt in Kyiv. He stated that smoke was seen coming out of the charred side of a high-rise residential building. Emergency services later recovered another corpse from the building. Local officials said that a 91-year-old woman was killed in a missile strike on Kharkiv. A married couple was killed in an attack in the area around Kyiv. President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Telegram that "Russia will answer for every life (that it has) taken away". Also read: Over 50 suffer carbon monoxide poisoning during church service in Utah Watch: Ukraine pounded with missiles and drones, as Putin vows revenge × Russian strikes on Ukraine Russia has stepped up missile and drone strikes in the past few days. It launched one of its largest air attacks of the war on December 29, killing at least 39 people. Kyiv had warned for weeks that Russia appeared to be stockpiling missiles for big attacks. Meanwhile, Zelensky said that the Russian forces are suffering heavy losses and the notion that Moscow is winning the nearly two-year-old war is only a "feeling" not based on reality. "Thousands, thousands of killed Russian soldiers, nobody even took them away," he told The Economist magazine in an interview published on Monday. As per the report, he was referring to fighting around the besieged eastern town of Avdiivka which he visited last week. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow says one killed in city of Belgorod in Ukrainian strikes

Israel-Hamas war: Deputy Hamas Chief Saleh Al-Arouri killed in Beirut attack

A Chinese exchange student fell victim to a “cyber kidnapping” scam and $80,000 was extorted from his parents after which he was found alive but “cold and scared” in a tent located in the wilderness of Utah, said the police. 
 
17-year-old Kai Zhuang was reported missing on Thursday (Dec 28) after his parents – who are living in China – informed the officials at his host high school in Riverdale, Utah that they suspected their child had been kidnapped and a ransom demand had been made to them. 
 
The case continued on the typical pattern for cyber kidnapping in which the victim is asked by the “kidnappers” to isolate themselves and provide pictures of them as if being held captive. The photos then taken are sent to the victim’s family to extort a payment. Generally, the victims comply fearing that going against the kidnappers will harm their family members.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-removes-nine-army-officials-from-parliament-in-a-reshuffle-675032">China expels nine army officials from parliament in a sweeping reshuffle</a>

After going through bank records, purchases and phone ping records in a search operation, the police were convinced that the boy was isolated in a tent some 40km (25 miles) north in a large area, close to Brigham City. 
 
“Due to the cold weather in Utah this time of year, we became additionally concerned for the victim’s safety in that he may freeze to death overnight,” said the Riverdale Police Department, in a press release after he was discovered Sunday (Dec 31).

<h2 lang="en-US">Kai found isolated in a tent</h2>

A sergeant – who was hiking on a mountainside – found Kai’s tent which did not have any heat source but only “a heat blanket, a sleeping bag, limited food and water and several phones that were presumed to be used to carry out the cyber kidnapping,” the department said. 
 
The detective said that he “contacted the victim inside the tent and found he was alive but very cold and scared”.

Watch:&nbsp;Africa, Brazil to halt 'donkey skin trade' in major blow to supplies for Chinese medicine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/africa-brazil-to-halt-donkey-skin-trade-in-major-blow-to-supplies-for-chinese-medicine-675784/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After he was rescued, Kai “requested a warm cheeseburger” and spoke to his family, which had made the payment of US$80,000 to bank accounts in China when they were threatened, according to Riverdale police. 
 
The host family of Kai in Riverdale was initially unaware that the boy was missing and had last seen him in the kitchen in the early morning of the same day when he disappeared. According to the press release, Riverdale police worked along with the FBI, Chinese officials and the US embassy in China to find the missing teenager. 
 
Riverdale police said that the cyber kidnappers have been recently targeting foreign exchange students recently, and especially, Chinese foreign exchange students.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Chinese exchange student fell victim to a “cyber kidnapping” scam and $80,000 was extorted from his parents after which he was found alive but “cold and scared” in a tent located in the wilderness of Utah, said the police.

A Chinese exchange student fell victim to a “cyber kidnapping” scam and $80,000 was extorted from his parents after which he was found alive but “cold and scared” in a tent located in the wilderness of Utah, said the police. 17-year-old Kai Zhuang was reported missing on Thursday (Dec 28) after his parents – who are living in China – informed the officials at his host high school in Riverdale, Utah that they suspected their child had been kidnapped and a ransom demand had been made to them. The case continued on the typical pattern for cyber kidnapping in which the victim is asked by the “kidnappers” to isolate themselves and provide pictures of them as if being held captive. The photos then taken are sent to the victim’s family to extort a payment. Generally, the victims comply fearing that going against the kidnappers will harm their family members. Also read: China expels nine army officials from parliament in a sweeping reshuffle After going through bank records, purchases and phone ping records in a search operation, the police were convinced that the boy was isolated in a tent some 40km (25 miles) north in a large area, close to Brigham City. “Due to the cold weather in Utah this time of year, we became additionally concerned for the victim’s safety in that he may freeze to death overnight,” said the Riverdale Police Department, in a press release after he was discovered Sunday (Dec 31). Kai found isolated in a tent A sergeant – who was hiking on a mountainside – found Kai’s tent which did not have any heat source but only “a heat blanket, a sleeping bag, limited food and water and several phones that were presumed to be used to carry out the cyber kidnapping,” the department said. The detective said that he “contacted the victim inside the tent and found he was alive but very cold and scared”. Watch: Africa, Brazil to halt 'donkey skin trade' in major blow to supplies for Chinese medicine After he was rescued, Kai “requested a warm cheeseburger” and spoke to his family, which had made the payment of US$80,000 to bank accounts in China when they were threatened, according to Riverdale police. The host family of Kai in Riverdale was initially unaware that the boy was missing and had last seen him in the kitchen in the early morning of the same day when he disappeared. According to the press release, Riverdale police worked along with the FBI, Chinese officials and the US embassy in China to find the missing teenager. Riverdale police said that the cyber kidnappers have been recently targeting foreign exchange students recently, and especially, Chinese foreign exchange students. (With inputs from agencies)

A ‘cyber kidnapping’ scam left a Chinese exchange student freezing in Utah wilderness

Texas can ban emergency abortions. A US Federal appeals court has ruled that this means the US government cannot force doctors to perform even abortions necessary to stabilize patients in emergency rooms.

Federal Appeals Court rules Texas can ban emergency abortions

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia pounds Ukraine with missiles & drones, five dead

The Met Office's provisional data reveals that 2023 was the UK's second warmest year on record, closely trailing behind 2022 by a mere 0.06ºC. This warming trend has significant implications, as both Wales and Northern Ireland experienced their hottest years ever recorded.

The Met Office said that climate change is undeniably contributing to these escalating temperatures, making high temperature records "significantly more likely."

<h2>Hot extremes: June’s sizzle and September’s blaze</h2>

The UK's summer in 2023 bookmarked itself with the hottest June and jointly hottest September on record, witnessing temperatures soaring above 33ºC. These scorching months contributed to the overall warmth experienced throughout the year.

The UK boasts some of the world's oldest temperature records, with the Met Office's Central England Temperature series dating back to 1659. This historical perspective underscores the gravity of recent temperature anomalies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heatwave-warnings-issued-in-australia-authorities-warn-of-bushfire-risk-673110">Also read |&nbsp;Heatwave warnings issued in Australia, authorities warn of bushfire risk</a>

Despite consecutive record-setting years, the UK government faced warnings in July about its unpreparedness for climate change. Advisers pointed out a spike in deaths and operational disruptions in 2022 among the over-65s, signalling the need for urgent action.

Greenpeace's Doug Parr as quoted by the BBC criticised&nbsp;Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's climate actions, accusing him of exacerbating the climate impact.

The Prime Minister's focus on expanding oil and gas drilling while delaying key emission-cutting policies drew sharp criticism.

The UK's record temperatures align with a global trend, evidenced by wildfires in various regions, historically high sea temperatures, and an alarming wildfire season. The Copernicus Climate Change Service is expected to confirm 2023 as the hottest year globally in January.

Scientists attribute the above-average temperatures not only to climate change but also to the El Niño weather phenomenon. Weakened winds in the eastern Pacific contribute to warmer air and increased rainfall, impacting the global climate.

Also watch |&nbsp;2023 Global Heatwaves: From Arizona to Antarctica | WION Wideangle

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/2023-global-heatwaves-from-arizona-to-antarctica-wion-wideangle-674546/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With El Niño expected to persist into the first half of 2024, predictions indicate that this year could become the world's hottest on record. The potential breach of the crucial 1.5ºC warming milestone is a looming concern, representing a symbolic threshold in global climate change negotiations initiated by the 2015 Paris agreement. Countries committed to limiting temperature rises to 1.5ºC, emphasising the urgency of climate action.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Met Office's provisional data reveals that 2023 was the UK's second warmest year on record, closely trailing behind 2022 by a mere 0.06ºC. This warming trend has significant implications, as both Wales and Northern Ireland experienced their hottest years ever recorded.

The Met Office's provisional data reveals that 2023 was the UK's second warmest year on record, closely trailing behind 2022 by a mere 0.06ºC. This warming trend has significant implications, as both Wales and Northern Ireland experienced their hottest years ever recorded. The Met Office said that climate change is undeniably contributing to these escalating temperatures, making high temperature records "significantly more likely." Hot extremes: June’s sizzle and September’s blaze The UK's summer in 2023 bookmarked itself with the hottest June and jointly hottest September on record, witnessing temperatures soaring above 33ºC. These scorching months contributed to the overall warmth experienced throughout the year. The UK boasts some of the world's oldest temperature records, with the Met Office's Central England Temperature series dating back to 1659. This historical perspective underscores the gravity of recent temperature anomalies. Also read | Heatwave warnings issued in Australia, authorities warn of bushfire risk Despite consecutive record-setting years, the UK government faced warnings in July about its unpreparedness for climate change. Advisers pointed out a spike in deaths and operational disruptions in 2022 among the over-65s, signalling the need for urgent action. Greenpeace's Doug Parr as quoted by the BBC criticised Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's climate actions, accusing him of exacerbating the climate impact. The Prime Minister's focus on expanding oil and gas drilling while delaying key emission-cutting policies drew sharp criticism. The UK's record temperatures align with a global trend, evidenced by wildfires in various regions, historically high sea temperatures, and an alarming wildfire season. The Copernicus Climate Change Service is expected to confirm 2023 as the hottest year globally in January. Scientists attribute the above-average temperatures not only to climate change but also to the El Niño weather phenomenon. Weakened winds in the eastern Pacific contribute to warmer air and increased rainfall, impacting the global climate. Also watch | 2023 Global Heatwaves: From Arizona to Antarctica | WION Wideangle With El Niño expected to persist into the first half of 2024, predictions indicate that this year could become the world's hottest on record. The potential breach of the crucial 1.5ºC warming milestone is a looming concern, representing a symbolic threshold in global climate change negotiations initiated by the 2015 Paris agreement. Countries committed to limiting temperature rises to 1.5ºC, emphasising the urgency of climate action. (With inputs from agencies)

Met office declares 2023 as UK’s second warmest year on record

Several more States in the United States are implementing gun safety laws known as red flag laws. California, Illinois and Colorado mark the New Year by implementing extreme risk protection orders also known as red flag laws.

US: California to ban guns in most public places

Top Biden administration officials huddled with Mexico’s president in urgent talks Wednesday to slow the record pace of illegal crossings at the U.S. southern border, just as congressional negotiators raced to reach a deal to tighten America’s immigration laws.

US-Mexico migration talks: Mexican President agrees to help control migrant surge

Nepal got Sinovac vaccines in April 2021 as a grant from China. China refused to take the vaccines back. The vaccines were in storage for over two years. W.H.O recommended Pfizer, Moderna, Covishield over SINOVAC. Watch to know more!

Nepal to destroy 4 million Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines, 2.5 years after buying them from China

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