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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.

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The United States has reached a deal to extend its military presence at a base in Qatar for another 10 years, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday (Jan 2).

The base in question is the Al Udeid Air Base, which is located in the desert southwest of Doha and hosts the largest US military facility in the Middle East, the source said, asking to not be identified.

The development was reported first by CNN. The US Department of Defense did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday.

The tiny Gulf state has played a key role in mediation talks with Hamas and Israeli officials in relation to the war in Gaza and the release of hostages captured by the Palestinian Islamist group in its October 7 cross-border attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people.

US President Joe Biden has regularly spoken with the emir of Qatar since October 7 on securing the release of hostages held by Hamas and on boosting aid to Gaza, where Israel's assault since the Hamas attack has killed over 22,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-qatar-asks-us-to-form-secret-cell-to-work-on-hostage-issue-661562">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Qatar asks US to form secret cell to work on hostage issue</a>

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There has also been criticism of Qatar by some in the US Congress over Hamas' presence in the country. A bipartisan group of 113 US lawmakers on October 16 sent a letter to Biden asking him to put pressure on countries that support Hamas, including Qatar.

Qatar is also a major non-NATO US ally, a designation granted by the United States to close, non-NATO allies that have strategic working relationships with the US military.

The Gulf state has also been a channel for US dialogue with the Taliban since the American pullout from Afghanistan in 2021. It played a role in mediating deals that in late 2023 led to some Americans being freed by Venezuela and Iran in prisoner swaps.

The United States has reached a deal to extend its military presence at a base in Qatar for another 10 years, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday (Jan 2).

The United States has reached a deal to extend its military presence at a base in Qatar for another 10 years, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday (Jan 2). The base in question is the Al Udeid Air Base, which is located in the desert southwest of Doha and hosts the largest US military facility in the Middle East, the source said, asking to not be identified. The development was reported first by CNN. The US Department of Defense did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday. The tiny Gulf state has played a key role in mediation talks with Hamas and Israeli officials in relation to the war in Gaza and the release of hostages captured by the Palestinian Islamist group in its October 7 cross-border attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people. US President Joe Biden has regularly spoken with the emir of Qatar since October 7 on securing the release of hostages held by Hamas and on boosting aid to Gaza, where Israel's assault since the Hamas attack has killed over 22,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Qatar asks US to form secret cell to work on hostage issue × There has also been criticism of Qatar by some in the US Congress over Hamas' presence in the country. A bipartisan group of 113 US lawmakers on October 16 sent a letter to Biden asking him to put pressure on countries that support Hamas, including Qatar. Qatar is also a major non-NATO US ally, a designation granted by the United States to close, non-NATO allies that have strategic working relationships with the US military. The Gulf state has also been a channel for US dialogue with the Taliban since the American pullout from Afghanistan in 2021. It played a role in mediating deals that in late 2023 led to some Americans being freed by Venezuela and Iran in prisoner swaps.

US reaches deal with Qatar to extend presence at largest military base in Middle East

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Twin blasts near late general Qasem Suleimani's grave in Iran claimed at least 103 lives and injured 140 others. Soleimani was a major figure in Iran's military apparatus and was killed in a US drone attack in the year 2020. In other news, it was revealed that a 35-year-old man impersonated as an Israeli soldier and joined IDF. He even posed with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Read this and more in Top 10 world news.

<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>

The explosions took place on the fourth anniversary of Qasem Soleimani's killing in a US drone strike in Iraq..

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Roi Yifrah impersonated a soldier, infiltrated the Gaza war, stole weapons, and posed with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Charged with weapons offences, he claims to be a paramedic defending Israel.

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The state CID said it has the information of 15 agents, who had promised to facilitate the alleged illegal immigration and that it will soon question them.

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India's apex court said there was 'no ground to transfer the investigation from SEBI to SIT (Special Investigation Team)'. It added that George Soros-led Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP)'s report cannot be used as a basis for a report by a statutory body like SEBI.

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&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/scaling-high-upi-transactions-in-2023-crossed-the-100-billion-mark-for-the-first-time-676193">UPI transactions in 2023 crossed the 100-billion mark for the first time</a>

The calendar year of 2023 saw a massive rise of 60 per cent in UPI transactions as compared to 74 billion recorded in 2022.

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&nbsp;

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Even as Trump faces multiple bans over the Capitol riot, a Washington Post-University of Maryland poll has found that Republicans in the US are more sympathetic to his supporters who stormed the government office.

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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.

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A former employee had described the island as a “Zen-like retreat" where topless women sunbathed while “meditative music” kept playing in the background.

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This is the first time a virtual sexual offence case is being investigated by the police officials.

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&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-dies-inside-jet-engine-of-aircraft-at-salt-lake-city-international-airport-676138">US: Man dies inside jet engine of aircraft at Salt Lake City International Airport</a>

The 30-year-old man was found by the police inside the engine of a commercial aircraft filled with passengers.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/03/403368-untitled-design-2024-01-03t140821478.png?imwidth=256" />

Twin blasts near late general Qasem Suleimani's grave in Iran claimed at least 103 lives and injured 140 others. Soleimani was a major figure in Iran's military apparatus and was killed in a US drone attack in the year 2020.

Twin blasts near late general Qasem Suleimani's grave in Iran claimed at least 103 lives and injured 140 others. Soleimani was a major figure in Iran's military apparatus and was killed in a US drone attack in the year 2020. In other news, it was revealed that a 35-year-old man impersonated as an Israeli soldier and joined IDF. He even posed with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Read this and more in Top 10 world news. Iran says 103 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani’s grave The explosions took place on the fourth anniversary of Qasem Soleimani's killing in a US drone strike in Iraq.. Israeli civilian impersonator joins Gaza war, poses with PM Netanyahu, faces weapons theft charges Roi Yifrah impersonated a soldier, infiltrated the Gaza war, stole weapons, and posed with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Charged with weapons offences, he claims to be a paramedic defending Israel. Passengers on 'human trafficking' plane paid nearly $100K for illegal US entry The state CID said it has the information of 15 agents, who had promised to facilitate the alleged illegal immigration and that it will soon question them. India Supreme Court rejects plea to transfer Adani-Hindenburg case probe to special investigation team India's apex court said there was 'no ground to transfer the investigation from SEBI to SIT (Special Investigation Team)'. It added that George Soros-led Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP)'s report cannot be used as a basis for a report by a statutory body like SEBI. UPI transactions in 2023 crossed the 100-billion mark for the first time The calendar year of 2023 saw a massive rise of 60 per cent in UPI transactions as compared to 74 billion recorded in 2022. Trump's support remains resilient, while one in three Americans now question Biden's 2020 win: Poll Even as Trump faces multiple bans over the Capitol riot, a Washington Post-University of Maryland poll has found that Republicans in the US are more sympathetic to his supporters who stormed the government office. South Korea opposition leader in ICU after knife attack amid calls for stronger security 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. Epstein hosted these celebrities, scientists and a royal family member at his infamous island A former employee had described the island as a “Zen-like retreat" where topless women sunbathed while “meditative music” kept playing in the background. Virtual reality turns ugly for UK teen after being 'gang-raped' in metaverse This is the first time a virtual sexual offence case is being investigated by the police officials. US: Man dies inside jet engine of aircraft at Salt Lake City International Airport The 30-year-old man was found by the police inside the engine of a commercial aircraft filled with passengers.

Top 10 world news: Iran twin blasts, Israel-Hamas updates, and more

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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.

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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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&nbsp;

<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

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