Akram, Afridi, Mushtaq tear into PCB after Pakistan’s Test series collapse in UK

‘India did extremely well’: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa praises BRICS leadership

From Rinku Singh to Mayank Yadav, 5 players dropped from India’s squad for Afghanistan T20Is

Woman removes all her clothes on American Airlines flight, performs 'indecent acts'; arrested

Did India risk its US trade deal despite softer stance at BRICS?

Indian importers urge Bangladesh to lift export ban on 'Hilsa' fish ahead of Durga Puja

War is making Russia stronger? How Ukraine is shaping Moscow’s next generation of weapons

Humans may lose control of AI: Anthropic CEO calls for slowdown, Altman, Musk back him

NEET-UG to move to computer-based test soon, NTA DG says ‘CBT is the future’

‘Let’s go’: Newly declassified videos show dramatic rescue of US Air Force officers downed in Iran

China discovers vast gold and silver 'mine' in the Pacific with unheard-of deposits

New OTT releases this week (September 14-20, 2026): Lust Stories 3, Waiting Hai, Irumudi- 5 new titles coming on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Liam Neeson sparks romance rumours after holding hands with Stella Stocker at TIFF 2026

Did China give Iran intel before US base strike that killed 3 troops? Trump says, 'You’re right...'

Women's Asia Cup 2026: India denied trophy once again despite winning the title

Why European Meteor missiles use ramjet engines compared to standard US solid rockets

Russian drone hits Warsaw-bound train near Polish border, Zelensky accuses Moscow of ‘deliberate’ targeting

PM Modi and China's Xi offered to help resolve Russia-Ukraine war: Kremlin

Russia proposes to build 360 kmph Ivolga FG trains in India: What happened on sidelines of BRICS

Iran, India agree to deepen humanitarian and political ties, President Pezeshkian says

Why Chinese PL-15 air-to-air missiles use dual-pulse motors compared to European interceptors

First naval drone battle? Ukraine says Sargan 3000 sank Russian unmanned boat

Turkish Airlines plane flies through a storm three times, triggering severe turbulence

China thinned Himalayan troop presence in 2025, India defence report says; terms border situation 'stable'

Practical Magic 2 breaks Spidey spell over North American box office

'Huge destructive power': North Korea calls its latest missile launches 'live-fire drill' even as US dismisses 'immediate threat'

Delhi’s balancing act: BRICS serves as a stage for West Asia diplomacy

Trump says Canada eager to reach a deal, it could come ‘fairly soon’ if Ottawa treats US farmers better

Meet top 5 batters fastest to 3000 runs in T20Is

‘Want to reset ties with India, have engagement based on mutual interests,’ says Bangladesh minister

800 million years old - Scientists discover 'fingerprints' of supercontinent Gondwana in ancient rocks

9-year-old Chennai prodigy clears Cambridge IGCSE grade 10 exams

Israel is engaged in the war in Gaza while battles on multiple fronts continue. Tensions are surging in West Bank as violence escalates while Iran backed Hezbollah and Houthis continue to engage in skirmishes with Israeli army and its allies.

Israel targetting civilian cameras to monitor movements, launch attacks: Hezbolllah

Tony Chung was among the first convicted under the Beijing-imposed law that was introduced after the 2019 pro-democracy protests. He was found guilty of secession and money laundering in 2020 and sentenced to 43 months in prison.

Former Hong Kong student leader Chung says 'filled with fear', youngest to be imprisoned under NSL

Adverse weather conditions are gripping the capital city of india, Delhi, and its surrounding areas. This as a thick blanket of fog enveloped the city, causing visibility to plummet to nearly zero. The relentless cold wave continued to persist as the minimum temperature in the national capital region dropped to 7 degrees Celsius. The dense fog drastically reduced visibility, creating an environment where navigating through the streets became really difficult.

Dense fog across North India, China: Over 600 flights delayed across China

In the wake of escalating violence against Hindu communities and a surge in the presence of Khalistani activities&nbsp;in Canada, the authorities have identified a 41-year-old suspect in connection with&nbsp;a series of break-and-entries&nbsp;at Hindu temples.

Police have identified Jagdish Pandher, a man from Brampton, as the alleged perpetrator behind multiple incidents targeting places of worship.

This also includes an incident on October 8, 2023, when the Canadian police responded to reports of a break-and-entry&nbsp;at a Hindu temple in Bayly Street and Krosno Boulevard neighbourhood in Pickering, Ontario.

As per Canada's Durham Regional Police, surveillance footage revealed Pandher breaking into the temple and leaving with a substantial amount of cash from donation boxes.

Subsequent investigations connected him to additional break-ins at temples in Pickering and Ajax, as well as various locations across Durham Region and the Greater Toronto Area.

"Investigators have linked the same suspect to numerous other break-and-enters at Hindu temples throughout the year. &nbsp;These break-and-enters occurred in Durham Region and around the Greater Toronto Area,"&nbsp;Durham regional police said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wisconsin-university-chancellor-produces-appears-in-porn-videos-gets-fired-674614">Wisconsin university chancellor produces, appears in porn videos, gets fired</a>

Despite the targeted locations being places of worship, authorities assert that the offences "do not appear to be hate crimes or motivated by hate."

These incidents of increased violence towards Hindu communities have left the people on edge.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-soldiers-mistook-cries-of-hostages-for-help-as-ambush-report-674590">Israeli soldiers mistook hostages' cries for help as 'ambush': Report</a>

Jagdish Pandher is now facing a list of charges, including four counts of Break-and-Enter Place Other Than Dwelling, four counts of Possess Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000, one count of Break-and-Enter with Intent, and five counts of Breach of Probation.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mexico-us-agree-to-keep-borders-open-us-mexico-border-dispute-674618">Mexico &amp; U.S. agree to keep borders open | U.S.-Mexico Border Dispute</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mexico-us-agree-to-keep-borders-open-us-mexico-border-dispute-674618/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The incidents have prompted authorities to urge the public to contact the West Division Property Crimes Unit with any relevant information available to them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of escalating violence against Hindu communities and a surge in the presence of Khalistani activities in Canada, the authorities have identified a 41-year-old suspect in connection with a series of break-and-entries at Hindu temples.

In the wake of escalating violence against Hindu communities and a surge in the presence of Khalistani activities in Canada, the authorities have identified a 41-year-old suspect in connection with a series of break-and-entries at Hindu temples. Police have identified Jagdish Pandher, a man from Brampton, as the alleged perpetrator behind multiple incidents targeting places of worship. This also includes an incident on October 8, 2023, when the Canadian police responded to reports of a break-and-entry at a Hindu temple in Bayly Street and Krosno Boulevard neighbourhood in Pickering, Ontario. As per Canada's Durham Regional Police, surveillance footage revealed Pandher breaking into the temple and leaving with a substantial amount of cash from donation boxes. Subsequent investigations connected him to additional break-ins at temples in Pickering and Ajax, as well as various locations across Durham Region and the Greater Toronto Area. "Investigators have linked the same suspect to numerous other break-and-enters at Hindu temples throughout the year. These break-and-enters occurred in Durham Region and around the Greater Toronto Area," Durham regional police said in a statement. Also Read | Wisconsin university chancellor produces, appears in porn videos, gets fired Despite the targeted locations being places of worship, authorities assert that the offences "do not appear to be hate crimes or motivated by hate." These incidents of increased violence towards Hindu communities have left the people on edge. Also Read | Israeli soldiers mistook hostages' cries for help as 'ambush': Report Jagdish Pandher is now facing a list of charges, including four counts of Break-and-Enter Place Other Than Dwelling, four counts of Possess Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000, one count of Break-and-Enter with Intent, and five counts of Breach of Probation. Watch | Mexico & U.S. agree to keep borders open | U.S.-Mexico Border Dispute × The incidents have prompted authorities to urge the public to contact the West Division Property Crimes Unit with any relevant information available to them. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada identifies 41-year-old suspect, Jagdish Pandher, in multiple break-and-entries at Hindu temples

A United Nations report published on Thursday deplored what it said was a "rapid deterioration" of human rights in the West Bank and urged Israeli authorities to end violence against the Palestinian population there.

UN deplores 'rapid deterioration' of rights in West Bank | Israel-Hamas War

New findings in the inquiry done by the Israeli military have concluded that the deaths of three hostages could have been prevented. The probe comes as the Israeli military came under fire this month after they admitted to killing hostages in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war: Military probe on hostages killed in Gaza

China's defence ministry on Thursday urged the Asia-Pacific to be on high alert as the United States steps up forward military deployment in the region, after reports of a U.S. plan to revive a Pacific airfield that launched atomic bombings of Japan.

China responds to US plan to reclaim World War II's air field, Tinian

SpaceX's Falcon Heavy, the highly secretive rocket, blasted into space carrying the US military's clandestine X-37B drone to a research mission.&nbsp;

The eagerly anticipated lift-off happened after weeks of delays. It unfolded at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 8:07 pm Eastern Time (0107 GMT Friday). A real-time live stream of the launch was shared on SpaceX's website.

<h2>Where is the spacecraft headed?</h2>

A veil of secrecy surrounds the uncrewed and autonomously functioning X-37B spacecraft, and it is unknown where exactly it is headed on its seventh mission.

The Pentagon has shared minimal insights into the spacecraft and its latest endeavours. Initially, it was scheduled for launch on December 7.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rewind-2023-straight-out-of-science-fiction-moments-from-this-year-674373">Rewind 2023: Moments this year that seemed straight out of science fiction</a>

In&nbsp;its statement, SpaceX only referred to it by the Pentagon's mission code name — USSF-52, and said "Falcon Heavy launched the USSF-52 mission to orbit from Launch Complex 39A."

<h2>What do we know about the heavily secret mission?</h2>

While the Pentagon remains tight-lipped about the specifics, it did disclose that the X-37B's seventh mission involves "multiple cutting-edge experiments."&nbsp;

Last month, the US Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office in a statement said: "These tests include operating the reusable spaceplane in new orbital regimes, experimenting with future space domain awareness technologies, and investigating the radiation effects on materials provided by NASA."

Significantly, this marks the first time the X-37B has hitched a ride on the Falcon Heavy, renowned as one of the most powerful operational rockets, capable of ferrying payloads up to 26,700 kilogrammes (around 58,900 pounds) into the depths of space.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-new-year-gift-xposat-will-lift-off-on-january-1-will-study-black-holes-674375">ISRO’s New Year’s gift: XPoSat will lift-off on January 1, will study black holes</a>

As per AFP, the X-37B US space drone resembles a downsized version of the now-retired manned space shuttles and has dimensions akin to a small bus. With a length of 30 feet (nine meters) and a wingspan of 15 feet (4.57 m), it harnesses solar panels for propulsion. Previous missions of the X-37B have involved conducting tests for NASA, including an exploration of the impact of radiation on seeds and other materials.

The Falcon Heavy's launch comes just two weeks after China deployed its enigmatic robotic space plane, Shenlong on December 14.&nbsp;

According to China's state news agency, Xinhua, "During this period, reusable technology verification and space science experiments will be carried out as planned to provide technical support for the peaceful use of space."

(With inputs from agencies)

SpaceX's Falcon Heavy, the highly secretive rocket, blasted into space carrying the US military's clandestine X-37B drone to a research mission. The eagerly anticipated lift-off happened after weeks of delays.

SpaceX's Falcon Heavy, the highly secretive rocket, blasted into space carrying the US military's clandestine X-37B drone to a research mission. The eagerly anticipated lift-off happened after weeks of delays. It unfolded at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 8:07 pm Eastern Time (0107 GMT Friday). A real-time live stream of the launch was shared on SpaceX's website. Where is the spacecraft headed? A veil of secrecy surrounds the uncrewed and autonomously functioning X-37B spacecraft, and it is unknown where exactly it is headed on its seventh mission. The Pentagon has shared minimal insights into the spacecraft and its latest endeavours. Initially, it was scheduled for launch on December 7. Also read | Rewind 2023: Moments this year that seemed straight out of science fiction In its statement, SpaceX only referred to it by the Pentagon's mission code name — USSF-52, and said "Falcon Heavy launched the USSF-52 mission to orbit from Launch Complex 39A." What do we know about the heavily secret mission? While the Pentagon remains tight-lipped about the specifics, it did disclose that the X-37B's seventh mission involves "multiple cutting-edge experiments." Last month, the US Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office in a statement said: "These tests include operating the reusable spaceplane in new orbital regimes, experimenting with future space domain awareness technologies, and investigating the radiation effects on materials provided by NASA." Significantly, this marks the first time the X-37B has hitched a ride on the Falcon Heavy, renowned as one of the most powerful operational rockets, capable of ferrying payloads up to 26,700 kilogrammes (around 58,900 pounds) into the depths of space. Also read | ISRO’s New Year’s gift: XPoSat will lift-off on January 1, will study black holes As per AFP, the X-37B US space drone resembles a downsized version of the now-retired manned space shuttles and has dimensions akin to a small bus. With a length of 30 feet (nine meters) and a wingspan of 15 feet (4.57 m), it harnesses solar panels for propulsion. Previous missions of the X-37B have involved conducting tests for NASA, including an exploration of the impact of radiation on seeds and other materials. The Falcon Heavy's launch comes just two weeks after China deployed its enigmatic robotic space plane, Shenlong on December 14. According to China's state news agency, Xinhua, "During this period, reusable technology verification and space science experiments will be carried out as planned to provide technical support for the peaceful use of space." (With inputs from agencies)

SpaceX's Falcon Heavy spacecraft takes off with highly secretive US military drone

Russian President Vladimir Putin's rumoured goddaughter Ksenia Sobchak was reportedly one of the attendees at the controversial star-studded "almost-naked" party which has now triggered severe backlash in the country.

A journalist, socialite, and onetime presidential candidate, Sobchak said she had realised that being a part of the "almost-naked" party was not the right thing to do.

The scandalous event in Moscow's famed Mutabor nightclub saw celebrities dressed in raunchy costumes.

Famous rapper Nikolai Vasilyev, also known as Vacio, attended the party wearing only a sock to hide his modesty.&nbsp;

He was later imprisoned for 15 days and fined for promoting "non-traditional sexual relations".

The other stars who wore flesh-coloured mesh, lace, and lingerie, faced cancelled concerts, lost TV appearances, and broken sponsorship deals.&nbsp;

The party was organised by famous Instagram influencer Anastasia Ivleeva and was attended by several celebs who have been staying in the country since Putin launched his offensive against Russia in Feb 2022.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-star-studded-almost-naked-party-triggers-severe-backlash-heres-what-happened-674393">Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened</a>

<h2>Sobchak issues public apology</h2>

Sobchak, reacting to the controversy, issued a partial apology, while also seeking to defend the organiser of the party Ivleeva.

As per a Washington Post translation, she shared a post on her Telegram account a day after the backlash began, saying, "Where and when adults go with their butts naked is their personal business."

The post showcased the video of a woman wearing a sheer black dress.

A few days later, the footage of the party sparked public outrage after which Sobchak released another video saying that attending the party and sharing images online was not the right thing to do at a time when Russian troops were fighting in Ukraine.

"You always need to choose carefully the right time, and this is not the right time," she said.

“If anyone was offended by my appearance, I apologise for that,” she added. “I don’t want to cause hatred and anger toward myself and other artists because of this stupid accident.”

Sobchak is the daughter of Putin's former boss Anatoly Sobchak, the ex-mayor of St. Petersburg who passed away in 2000.

The controversial event has invited criticism from the authorities, pro-Kremlin lawmakers and bloggers, state media, and Orthodox Church groups.

It has also angered Russians who back Moscow's aggression against Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin's rumoured goddaughter Ksenia Sobchak was reportedly one of the attendees at the controversial star-studded "almost-naked" party which has now triggered severe backlash in the country.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's rumoured goddaughter Ksenia Sobchak was reportedly one of the attendees at the controversial star-studded "almost-naked" party which has now triggered severe backlash in the country. A journalist, socialite, and onetime presidential candidate, Sobchak said she had realised that being a part of the "almost-naked" party was not the right thing to do. The scandalous event in Moscow's famed Mutabor nightclub saw celebrities dressed in raunchy costumes. Famous rapper Nikolai Vasilyev, also known as Vacio, attended the party wearing only a sock to hide his modesty. He was later imprisoned for 15 days and fined for promoting "non-traditional sexual relations". The other stars who wore flesh-coloured mesh, lace, and lingerie, faced cancelled concerts, lost TV appearances, and broken sponsorship deals. The party was organised by famous Instagram influencer Anastasia Ivleeva and was attended by several celebs who have been staying in the country since Putin launched his offensive against Russia in Feb 2022. Also read: Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened Sobchak issues public apology Sobchak, reacting to the controversy, issued a partial apology, while also seeking to defend the organiser of the party Ivleeva. As per a Washington Post translation, she shared a post on her Telegram account a day after the backlash began, saying, "Where and when adults go with their butts naked is their personal business." The post showcased the video of a woman wearing a sheer black dress. A few days later, the footage of the party sparked public outrage after which Sobchak released another video saying that attending the party and sharing images online was not the right thing to do at a time when Russian troops were fighting in Ukraine. "You always need to choose carefully the right time, and this is not the right time," she said. “If anyone was offended by my appearance, I apologise for that,” she added. “I don’t want to cause hatred and anger toward myself and other artists because of this stupid accident.” Sobchak is the daughter of Putin's former boss Anatoly Sobchak, the ex-mayor of St. Petersburg who passed away in 2000. The controversial event has invited criticism from the authorities, pro-Kremlin lawmakers and bloggers, state media, and Orthodox Church groups. It has also angered Russians who back Moscow's aggression against Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Putin's rumoured goddaughter issues apology after attending ‘almost naked’ party

Oversharing online invites for unauthorised access. The new Instagram viral trend can expose answers to common security questions. Watch the video to know more!

Experts warn against 'Get to Know Me' trend over 'Privacy concerns'

US intelligence officials have said that a Chinese spy balloon that flew across the country earlier this year had used an American internet service provider, NBC News reported on Thursday (Dec 28) citing two current and one former official familiar with the assessment.

US intelligence officials have said that a Chinese spy balloon that flew across the country earlier this year had used an American internet service provider, NBC News reported on Thursday (Dec 28) citing two current and one former official familiar with the assessment. According to the assessment, the spy balloon connected to a US-based company to send and receive communications from China, primarily related to the balloon's navigation. Officials told NBC News the assessment found that the connection allowed the balloon to send burst transmissions or high-bandwidth collections of data over short periods. The internet service provider's name has not been disclosed, and the company denied that the Chinese spy balloon had used its network. A 'highly secretive' court order sought by Biden admin The NBC News report on Thursday said that the Biden administration had sought a highly secretive court order from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court to collect intelligence about the spy balloon while it was over the US. But how the court ruled in this matter has also not been disclosed. Also read: Spy balloon, Panda diplomacy: US-China ties in 2023 entered a phase of 21st century cold war Officials told the network that such a court order would have allowed American intelligence agencies to conduct electronic surveillance on the balloon as it flew over the country and as it sent and received messages to and from China, including communication sent via the US-based internet service provider. The balloon had first passed into US airspace north of Alaska's Aleutian Islands in late January. It was shot down on Feb 4. The appearance of this balloon caused a political uproar in the US, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken cancelling his visit to Beijing. Balloon unintentionally drifted into US: China China has repeatedly said that the balloon was used for meteorological research. Speaking with NBC News, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the US, said, "As we had made it clear before, the airship, used for meteorological research, unintentionally drifted into US because of the westerlies and its limited self-steering capability." Liu added that the facts in this matter were clear. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese spy balloon used American internet provider to communicate: US intelligence officials

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: According to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry, 50 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza. Tens of thousands of already displaced Palestinian families took flight again in a new mass exodus in central Gaza on Thursday (December 28), where Israeli forces mounting a major advance pounded areas already teeming with those driven out of the north. Watch the video to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas delegation to discuss Egypt's Gaza ceasefire plan | WION Speed News

Israeli soldiers failed to heed the cries for "help" of three hostages when they entered a building in Gaza just days before they were killed by the troops by mistake, revealed a military investigation which was published on Thursday (Dec 28). 
 
As per the probe, the soldiers heard "hostages" shout in the Hebrew language on December 10, however, it was interpreted as a "terrorist deception attempt" being made by Hamas operatives to lure them into the building which was located in&nbsp;Gaza City's district of Shejaiya. 
 
It added that the soldiers believed the building was rigged with explosives and they exited it and killed five Hamas militants trying to escape. 
 
As per the investigation, the hostages then probably also escaped from the building and were shot dead by Israeli soldiers on December 15 after they were mistakenly identified as a threat.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/son-of-hamas-deputy-commander-marwan-issa-killed-in-israeli-airstrike-reports-674444">Son of Hamas Deputy Commander Marwan Issa killed in Israeli airstrike: Reports</a>

Two of the hostages were instantly killed by the soldiers. The third hostage escaped and soldiers were asked to hold fire so as to identify them, said the probe. 
 
When the Israeli commanders heard cries of "help!" and "they're shooting at me", they asked the surviving hostage to move towards the soldiers. However, two soldiers "who did not hear the order" because of "noise", shot the hostage dead from a nearby tank.

<h2>Signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" in building</h2>

All three hostages were shirtless and a white flag was being carried by one of them. On December 14, signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" were identified by an army drone on a building which was close to where the three hostages were shot. 
 
The army "failed in its mission to rescue the hostages in this event," said army chief Herzi Halevi, in a statement published with the investigation report. The three fatalities "could have been prevented", he said.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: UN deplores 'rapid deterioration' of rights in West Bank

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-un-deplores-rapid-deterioration-of-rights-in-west-bank-674512/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After the three hostages' killing was announced, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the news "broke my heart" and "broke the whole nation's heart". 
 
The deaths of the hostages – who were identified as Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samer El-Talalqa – left entire Israel in a state of mourning. 
 
The death of the three hostages also triggered protests in Tel Aviv where demonstrators asked the authorities to come up with a fresh plan for bringing home the rest of the 129 hostages, who are still being held in the Gaza Strip.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli soldiers failed to heed the cries for "help" of three hostages when they entered a building in Gaza just days before they were killed by the troops by mistake, revealed a military investigation which was published on Thursday (Dec 28).

Israeli soldiers failed to heed the cries for "help" of three hostages when they entered a building in Gaza just days before they were killed by the troops by mistake, revealed a military investigation which was published on Thursday (Dec 28). As per the probe, the soldiers heard "hostages" shout in the Hebrew language on December 10, however, it was interpreted as a "terrorist deception attempt" being made by Hamas operatives to lure them into the building which was located in Gaza City's district of Shejaiya. It added that the soldiers believed the building was rigged with explosives and they exited it and killed five Hamas militants trying to escape. As per the investigation, the hostages then probably also escaped from the building and were shot dead by Israeli soldiers on December 15 after they were mistakenly identified as a threat. Also read: Son of Hamas Deputy Commander Marwan Issa killed in Israeli airstrike: Reports Two of the hostages were instantly killed by the soldiers. The third hostage escaped and soldiers were asked to hold fire so as to identify them, said the probe. When the Israeli commanders heard cries of "help!" and "they're shooting at me", they asked the surviving hostage to move towards the soldiers. However, two soldiers "who did not hear the order" because of "noise", shot the hostage dead from a nearby tank. Signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" in building All three hostages were shirtless and a white flag was being carried by one of them. On December 14, signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" were identified by an army drone on a building which was close to where the three hostages were shot. The army "failed in its mission to rescue the hostages in this event," said army chief Herzi Halevi, in a statement published with the investigation report. The three fatalities "could have been prevented", he said. Watch: Israel-Hamas War: UN deplores 'rapid deterioration' of rights in West Bank After the three hostages' killing was announced, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the news "broke my heart" and "broke the whole nation's heart". The deaths of the hostages – who were identified as Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samer El-Talalqa – left entire Israel in a state of mourning. The death of the three hostages also triggered protests in Tel Aviv where demonstrators asked the authorities to come up with a fresh plan for bringing home the rest of the 129 hostages, who are still being held in the Gaza Strip. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli soldiers mistook hostages' cries for help as 'ambush': Probe report

Pierce Brosnan who played James Bond in films is facing heat in real life. Brosnan has been accused of trespassing in Yellowstone thermal area. Mammoth Terraces is a scenic spot of mineral and crusted hot springs, going out of bounds in such areas is dangerous. So what's next for Brosnan? Watch to know more!

U.S: Pierce Brosnan accused of trespassing in Yellowstone Thermal Area

Three people died yesterday after their car fell into a river in northern England, local police said, as Storm Gerrit battered much of the UK.

UK: Three dead as Storm Gerrit batters Britain, 14,000 homes left without power | World News | WION

Latest in Russia-Ukraine war: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov said that the aim of Zelensky's peace formula is to hand over Crimea, hand over Donbas. He said that the formula is difficult to implement. Watch the video to know more!

Russia Foreign Minister Lavrov slams Zelensky's 'peace formula', says it is difficult to implement

A university in Wisconsin fired its chancellor for producing as well as appearing in pornographic videos along with his wife. 
 
Speaking to news agency The Associated Press, former University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Chancellor Joe Gow said that the governing board of the school fired him because the university members were not comfortable with the fact that he and his wife were producing and appearing in pornographic videos.

 
The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents, which manages UW-Madison, UW-La Crosse and 11 other regional campuses, unanimously voted during a closed meeting which was convened hastily on Wednesday (Dec 27) to fire Gow. 
 
After the voting, statements were issued by Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman and regents President Karen Walsh in which they said that the regents had learned about Gow's specific conduct that subjected the university to “significant reputational harm.” 
 
The actions of Gow were termed as “abhorrent” by Rothman, and Walsh added that she was “disgusted.” However, neither of them gave out the details of the allegations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-university-panel-says-mphil-not-recognised-degree-anymore-warns-students-from-taking-admission-674116">India: University panel says MPhil not recognised degree anymore, warns students from taking admission</a>

Speaking to The Associated Press, Gow on Thursday (Dec 28) said that the regents found out that he and his wife, former UW-La Crosse professor Carmen Wilson, were producing and making appearances in pornographic videos.

<h2>Never took university's name in video: Chancellor</h2>

He added that he never took the name of UW-La Crosse or talked about his role at the university in the videos and the sacking has violated his free speech rights. 
 
“My wife and I live in a country where we have a First Amendment. We’re dealing with consensual adult sexuality. The regents are overreacting. They’re certainly not adhering to their own commitment to free speech or the First Amendment,” he said. 
 
Gow further complained that the regents never informed him what policy was violated by him and he was never included in any hearing or given a chance to present his case. He added that he has been thinking about filing a lawsuit.

Watch:&nbsp;Spotlight on Pakistan's 'University of Jihad'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spotlight-on-pakistans-university-of-jihad-672487/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“I got an email last night saying I was terminated. I wish I would have had the opportunity to have a hearing. When reasonable people understand what my wife and I are creating, it calms them down,” said Gow. 
 
Meanwhile, Rothman said that Gow was not able to act as a role model for faculty, students and the community and mistakenly believed that the First Amendment equates to a “free pass to say or do anything that he pleases.” 
 
“Good judgement requires that there are and must be limits on what is said or done by the individuals entrusted to lead our universities,” said Rothman, in reply to AP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A university in Wisconsin fired its chancellor for producing as well as appearing in pornographic videos along with his wife. Speaking to news agency The Associated Press, former University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Chancellor Joe Gow said that the governing board of the school fired him because the university members were not comfortable with the fact that he and his wife were producing and appearing in pornographic videos.

A university in Wisconsin fired its chancellor for producing as well as appearing in pornographic videos along with his wife. Speaking to news agency The Associated Press, former University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Chancellor Joe Gow said that the governing board of the school fired him because the university members were not comfortable with the fact that he and his wife were producing and appearing in pornographic videos. The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents, which manages UW-Madison, UW-La Crosse and 11 other regional campuses, unanimously voted during a closed meeting which was convened hastily on Wednesday (Dec 27) to fire Gow. After the voting, statements were issued by Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman and regents President Karen Walsh in which they said that the regents had learned about Gow's specific conduct that subjected the university to “significant reputational harm.” The actions of Gow were termed as “abhorrent” by Rothman, and Walsh added that she was “disgusted.” However, neither of them gave out the details of the allegations. Also read: India: University panel says MPhil not recognised degree anymore, warns students from taking admission Speaking to The Associated Press, Gow on Thursday (Dec 28) said that the regents found out that he and his wife, former UW-La Crosse professor Carmen Wilson, were producing and making appearances in pornographic videos. Never took university's name in video: Chancellor He added that he never took the name of UW-La Crosse or talked about his role at the university in the videos and the sacking has violated his free speech rights. “My wife and I live in a country where we have a First Amendment. We’re dealing with consensual adult sexuality. The regents are overreacting. They’re certainly not adhering to their own commitment to free speech or the First Amendment,” he said. Gow further complained that the regents never informed him what policy was violated by him and he was never included in any hearing or given a chance to present his case. He added that he has been thinking about filing a lawsuit. Watch: Spotlight on Pakistan's 'University of Jihad' “I got an email last night saying I was terminated. I wish I would have had the opportunity to have a hearing. When reasonable people understand what my wife and I are creating, it calms them down,” said Gow. Meanwhile, Rothman said that Gow was not able to act as a role model for faculty, students and the community and mistakenly believed that the First Amendment equates to a “free pass to say or do anything that he pleases.” “Good judgement requires that there are and must be limits on what is said or done by the individuals entrusted to lead our universities,” said Rothman, in reply to AP. (With inputs from agencies)

Chancellor of an American university is furious after being fired for starring in porn films

Former Hong Kong student leader seeks asylum in UK

Maine’s top election official disqualifies Donald Trump from the state ballot in next year's US Presidential primary election. Shenna bellows cites the 14th amendment's 'insurrection' clause for Trump's role in the January 6, 2021 attack on Capitol Hill.

More trouble for Trump Presidential bid; Ghosts of Capitol Hill riots haunt Trump

atest in Israel-Hamas war: According to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry, 50 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza. Tens of thousands of already displaced Palestinian families took flight again in a new mass exodus in central Gaza on Thursday (December 28), where Israeli forces mounting a major advance pounded areas already teeming with those driven out of the north. Watch the video to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas delegation to discuss Egypt's Gaza ceasefire plan

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced that they have located and destroyed three tunnel shafts near Rantisi Children’s Hospital and a nearby school in Gaza City which they claim are connected to passages beneath the medical centre and are used by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

<h2>Tunnels&nbsp;were&nbsp;being used as Hamas ‘command centre’: IDF</h2>

The three shafts “are connected by a wide underground network that runs under the hospital, is several kilometres long and leads to strategic points in the heart of Gaza City,” said the Israeli army, as quoted by the Times of Israel.&nbsp;

The tunnel shafts were said to have been destroyed using explosives. According to the Israeli military, the tunnel at Rantisi was used by Hamas as a command centre.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
IDF troops are uncovering Hamas’ tunnels inside and around multiple hospitals within Gaza. 
 
The Rantisi Hospital is just another terrorist stronghold used to connect and transfer terrorists and weapons throughout Gaza to be used against Israelis. <a href="https://t.co/aYBkpgsfn9">pic.twitter.com/aYBkpgsfn9</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1740084607762973123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Back in November, the IDF showed what it said was proof that the basement of Rantisi was used by Hamas to hide weapons and possibly hold hostages that were taken to Gaza following Hamas’ October 7 attacks on Israel.&nbsp;

IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari, in November, showed what he claimed was an underground command centre under the Rantisi Hospital and had suicide vests, rocket-propelled grenades, along with&nbsp;baby bottles and improvised toilets which he said indicated that Hamas held hostages there.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-holds-wide-ranging-talks-with-lavrov-says-india-russia-relations-reflect-geopolitical-realities-674165">Lavrov hails 'mutually beneficial' India-Russia ties, Jaishankar calls Moscow a 'time-tested partner'</a>

According to the Israeli army, one of the three shafts found in a high school adjacent to Rantisi was equipped with an elevator heading down some 20 metres. While another shaft was said to be the home of a commander in Hamas’ naval forces and was equipped with a blast door.&nbsp;

The tunnel network was demolished by combat engineers after being investigated, said the IDF.&nbsp;

<h2>WHO says Gazans in ‘grave peril’</h2>

The World Health Organization, on Wednesday, said that the people in Gaza are in “grave peril” citing acute hunger and desperation throughout the war-torn Palestinian territory. This comes as Israel is facing growing criticism from across the world over mounting civilian casualties amid its war with Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

The United Nations health agency said that it delivered supplies to two hospitals on Tuesday (Dec 26), and only 15 out of 36 hospitals in the Gaza Strip are functioning in any capacity at all.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-deaths-soar-as-israel-says-war-to-last-many-more-months-674161">Gaza deaths soar as Israel says war to last 'many more months'</a>

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called on the international community to take “urgent steps to alleviate the grave peril facing the population of Gaza".

The Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry, on Wednesday (Dec 27) said that the death toll since the beginning of Israel’s retaliatory attacks has killed at least 21,110 people and left around 55,243 others injured.&nbsp;

The conflict erupted when Hamas gunmen attacked southern Israel on October 7 resulting in the deaths of about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials. Palestinian militants also took over 200&nbsp;hostages, 129 of whom remain in captivity, says Israel.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced that they have located and destroyed three tunnel shafts near Rantisi Children’s Hospital and a nearby school in Gaza City which they claim are connected to passages beneath the medical centre and are used by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced that they have located and destroyed three tunnel shafts near Rantisi Children’s Hospital and a nearby school in Gaza City which they claim are connected to passages beneath the medical centre and are used by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Tunnels were being used as Hamas ‘command centre’: IDF The three shafts “are connected by a wide underground network that runs under the hospital, is several kilometres long and leads to strategic points in the heart of Gaza City,” said the Israeli army, as quoted by the Times of Israel. The tunnel shafts were said to have been destroyed using explosives. According to the Israeli military, the tunnel at Rantisi was used by Hamas as a command centre. IDF troops are uncovering Hamas’ tunnels inside and around multiple hospitals within Gaza. The Rantisi Hospital is just another terrorist stronghold used to connect and transfer terrorists and weapons throughout Gaza to be used against Israelis. pic.twitter.com/aYBkpgsfn9 — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 27, 2023 × Back in November, the IDF showed what it said was proof that the basement of Rantisi was used by Hamas to hide weapons and possibly hold hostages that were taken to Gaza following Hamas’ October 7 attacks on Israel. IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari, in November, showed what he claimed was an underground command centre under the Rantisi Hospital and had suicide vests, rocket-propelled grenades, along with baby bottles and improvised toilets which he said indicated that Hamas held hostages there. ALSO READ | Lavrov hails 'mutually beneficial' India-Russia ties, Jaishankar calls Moscow a 'time-tested partner' According to the Israeli army, one of the three shafts found in a high school adjacent to Rantisi was equipped with an elevator heading down some 20 metres. While another shaft was said to be the home of a commander in Hamas’ naval forces and was equipped with a blast door. The tunnel network was demolished by combat engineers after being investigated, said the IDF. WHO says Gazans in ‘grave peril’ The World Health Organization, on Wednesday, said that the people in Gaza are in “grave peril” citing acute hunger and desperation throughout the war-torn Palestinian territory. This comes as Israel is facing growing criticism from across the world over mounting civilian casualties amid its war with Hamas in Gaza. The United Nations health agency said that it delivered supplies to two hospitals on Tuesday (Dec 26), and only 15 out of 36 hospitals in the Gaza Strip are functioning in any capacity at all. ALSO READ | Gaza deaths soar as Israel says war to last 'many more months' WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called on the international community to take “urgent steps to alleviate the grave peril facing the population of Gaza". The Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry, on Wednesday (Dec 27) said that the death toll since the beginning of Israel’s retaliatory attacks has killed at least 21,110 people and left around 55,243 others injured. The conflict erupted when Hamas gunmen attacked southern Israel on October 7 resulting in the deaths of about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials. Palestinian militants also took over 200 hostages, 129 of whom remain in captivity, says Israel. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Israeli Army claims to have destroyed Hamas tunnels under Gaza’s Rantisi hospital

A star-studded party in Russia recently sparked outrage after videos of scantily clad celebrities took the internet by storm. The event, being described as "almost-naked", also had a rapper attending with only a sock to hide his modesty, who has now been imprisoned for 15 days.

A star-studded party in Russia recently sparked outrage after videos of scantily clad celebrities took the internet by storm. The event, being described as "almost-naked", also had a rapper attending with only a sock to hide his modesty, who has now been imprisoned for 15 days. Nikolai Vasilyev, also known as Vacio, was jailed and fined for endorsing "non-traditional sexual relations". The other stars, who wore flesh-coloured mesh, lace, and lingerie, now face cancelled concerts, lost TV appearances, and broken sponsorship deals. Held at a nightclub in Moscow on Dec 21, the party also led to the termination of contracts with some of Russia's renowned entertainers. The party was organised by famous Instagram influencer Anastasia Ivleeva and was attended by several celebs who have been staying in the country since Putin launched his offensive against Russia in Feb 2022. View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × “Everyone was having a good time, no one could imagine what a mess this would all become,” the Guardian quoted a person who attended the party as saying. Wartime backlash The footage of the party spread like fire across Russian social media applications, triggering severe backlash in the country, especially among pro-war commentators and nationalist officials, and also reportedly left President Vladimir Putin unimpressed. A video clip of Putin's spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, being briefed about the party by one of the attending celebrities has been doing rounds on the internet. As per Baza, a news outlet which is known to have connections with security service officials, the troops fighting in Ukraine were among the first to express displeasure on viewing the footage. Peskov, on Wednesday (Dec 28), refrained from publicly commenting on the burgeoning scandal on being asked about it by reporters. "Let you and I be the only ones in the country who aren't discussing this topic," he said. Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, commenting on the event, said that it had "stained" the ones who attended it. She, however, noted that the controversy had also provided an opportunity for the attendees to reflect and work upon themselves, as per the Ura.ru news outlet. “There is a war going on in the country, but these beasts, scum are organising all this, these brutes who don’t care what’s going on,” said Vladimir Solovyov, Russia’s most prominent television propagandist, in a Telegram post, as per the Guardian. Also read: Ghost ships at North Korean port sends alarm bells ringing for Ukraine The controversial event and the criticism it has invited from the authorities, pro-Kremlin lawmakers and bloggers, state media, and Orthodox Church groups, has since then taken over the major headlines replacing stories about the surge in prices of staples like eggs and inflation. Celebrities issue public apology After rapper Vacio was sentenced to 15-day-imprisonment under the charges of “gay propaganda” law, many celebs who attended the party issued public apologies. Russia’s king of pop, Filipp Kirkorov, on Tuesday (Dec 26), begged for forgiveness. “There are moments in everyone’s life when you walk through the wrong door,” he said. He added: “In these difficult times, heroic times, an artist of my calibre, a people’s artist, cannot and should not be so irresponsible when participating in various events.” Ksenia Sobchak, who is also the rumoured goddaughter of Putin, said that she had realised that being a part of such an event and sharing images online wasn't the right thing to do at a time when Russian troops were fighting in Ukraine. “If anyone was offended by my appearance, I apologise for that,” Sobchak said. “I don’t want to cause hatred and anger toward myself and other artists because of this stupid accident.” Russian Eurovision veteran Dima Bilan said he “couldn’t know in advance what the other guests would be wearing”. The party's organiser, Anastasia (Nastya) Ivleeva, also issued two public apology videos. View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × In the second video, which she released on Wednesday (Dec 27), she expressed regret over her actions saying that she deserved the treatment she was getting from people across the country but hoped people could give her a second chance. “They say that Russia knows how to forgive. If so, I would like to ask you, the people, for a second chance,” she said in her video apology on Wednesday. “If the answer is no, then I’m ready for my public execution. I won’t shy away. I’m ready for any outcome.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × Ivleeva had grabbed headlines after she wore jewellery worth 23 million roubles ($251,000) at a time when Russians were struggling to get by. View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × Event angers Russians who back war in Ukraine The controversy has angered Russians who back Moscow's aggression against Ukraine. "To hold such events at a time when our guys are dying in the (Ukrainian) special military operation and many children are losing their fathers is cynical," said Yekaterina Mizulina, director of Russia's League for a Safe Internet, a body founded with the authorities support. "Our soldiers on the front line are definitely not fighting for this." As per the news agency Reuters, a woman whose nephew lost both his legs in the war against Kyiv wrote in a posting on social media that the celebrities who attended the party should pay for prosthetic legs for her relative. "That would be a better apology," the unidentified woman wrote. Meanwhile, some call the scandal a part of Russia's bid to endorse its "traditional values". “Moscow has become similar to Chechnya: public apologies from party participants trembling with fear, tax audits, the prospect of criminal cases,” wrote Alexander Rodnyansky, a Ukrainian producer, on Instagram. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened

Former liberal democratic party lawmaker Mito Kakizawa has been arrested over allegations of vote-buying in a Tokyo ward mayoral election in April.

Japan: Lawmaker arrested over vote-buying allegations | Kakizawa Money Scandal

China urges Asia-Pacific to be on high alert as US plans to reclaim Tinian airfield | WION

Miracles do happen and this incident is a testament to it!

Two fishermen who were scouting for fishing holes in Northwest Indiana in the US came across a driver who was trapped inside his truck for almost six days underneath a highway bridge after it crashed off Interstate 94.

Mario Garcia and his son-in-law Nivardo De La Torre were waiting for their wives, looking out for potential fishing holes when they found 27-year-old Matthew Reum, who was stuck in his truck and had sustained severe injuries in the aftermath of a fatal vehicle crash.

As per local media reports, Garcia said that as he saw the mangled truck, he attempted to move the airbag away when Reum "woke up".

"He tried yelling and screaming, but nobody would hear him," Garcia recalled Reum telling him.

"It was just quiet - just the sound of the water."

Reum after being rescued was rushed to Memorial Hospital in South Bend, CBS reported quoting Indiana State Police Sgt Glen Fifield.

"Had it not been for the two individuals that were walking the creek this afternoon, this incident more than likely would have had a different outcome," police said.

"There had not been any prior reports of a crash in this area prior to the fishermen finding the vehicle," the officials further added.

The rescuers said that they were glad they came across Reum and his life was saved.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-greek-compromise-for-parthenon-marbles-athens-agrees-to-give-away-its-greatest-treasures-to-britain-674340">Great Greek compromise for Parthenon marbles? Athens agrees to give away its 'greatest treasures' to Britain</a>

"It's cold tonight and I don't believe he would've made it through the night tonight," said Fifield. "That's my personal opinion."

"He said to me that he's been there for a long time; that he had almost lost all hope - because nobody was there," said Garcia.

<h2>Reum has part of leg amputated</h2>

After the massive rescue effort, part of Reum's left leg was amputated on Wednesday morning (Dec 28) and has been in intensive care, reported NBC.

"We were able to speak with him last night, we are thankful Matt is alive and grateful for the men who found him," said the union Reum works with, in a statement. &nbsp;

"Matt’s strong will and toughness speak volumes through this ordeal. Matt has been a Boilermaker since 2015 originally a member of Boilermakers Local 455 in Tennessee and transferred into Boilermakers Local 374 in 2021 when he moved to the South Bend area. He is a welder among many other things and a very good asset to his trade. Since I have known Matt, he has always been a positive, kind, and energetic person. We will continue to pray and support our brother as he begins his recovery. We thank God that Matt is still with us."

(With inputs from agencies)

Miracles do happen and this incident is a testament to it! Two fishermen who were scouting for fishing holes in Northwest Indiana in the US came across a driver who was trapped inside his truck for almost six days underneath a highway bridge after it crashed off Interstate 94.

Miracles do happen and this incident is a testament to it! Two fishermen who were scouting for fishing holes in Northwest Indiana in the US came across a driver who was trapped inside his truck for almost six days underneath a highway bridge after it crashed off Interstate 94. Mario Garcia and his son-in-law Nivardo De La Torre were waiting for their wives, looking out for potential fishing holes when they found 27-year-old Matthew Reum, who was stuck in his truck and had sustained severe injuries in the aftermath of a fatal vehicle crash. As per local media reports, Garcia said that as he saw the mangled truck, he attempted to move the airbag away when Reum "woke up". "He tried yelling and screaming, but nobody would hear him," Garcia recalled Reum telling him. "It was just quiet - just the sound of the water." Reum after being rescued was rushed to Memorial Hospital in South Bend, CBS reported quoting Indiana State Police Sgt Glen Fifield. "Had it not been for the two individuals that were walking the creek this afternoon, this incident more than likely would have had a different outcome," police said. "There had not been any prior reports of a crash in this area prior to the fishermen finding the vehicle," the officials further added. The rescuers said that they were glad they came across Reum and his life was saved. Also read: Great Greek compromise for Parthenon marbles? Athens agrees to give away its 'greatest treasures' to Britain "It's cold tonight and I don't believe he would've made it through the night tonight," said Fifield. "That's my personal opinion." "He said to me that he's been there for a long time; that he had almost lost all hope - because nobody was there," said Garcia. Reum has part of leg amputated After the massive rescue effort, part of Reum's left leg was amputated on Wednesday morning (Dec 28) and has been in intensive care, reported NBC. "We were able to speak with him last night, we are thankful Matt is alive and grateful for the men who found him," said the union Reum works with, in a statement. "Matt’s strong will and toughness speak volumes through this ordeal. Matt has been a Boilermaker since 2015 originally a member of Boilermakers Local 455 in Tennessee and transferred into Boilermakers Local 374 in 2021 when he moved to the South Bend area. He is a welder among many other things and a very good asset to his trade. Since I have known Matt, he has always been a positive, kind, and energetic person. We will continue to pray and support our brother as he begins his recovery. We thank God that Matt is still with us." (With inputs from agencies)

US: Driver found alive almost 6 days after being trapped in wrecked truck

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's popularity continues to wane&nbsp;amid the escalation in the war against Hamas and the increasing death toll on both sides.

In a poll carried out by Israel Democracy Institute in mid-December, it was reported that nearly 66 per cent of Israelis thought that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) has the military capabilities to destroy Hamas in Gaza. However, what is more shocking is that more than 69 per cent want elections to be conducted in the country as soon as the war is over.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, nearly 39 per cent of those who voted for the Likud party of Netanyahu said that they are willing to do so again.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blotted-with-judicial-reforms-israel-hamas-war-is-2023-a-losing-game-for-netanyahu-669734">Here's how 2023 turned out for Israel's PM Netanyahu amid war, protests</a>

Another survey was carried out by the Bar-Ilan University in which it was revealed that only 24 per cent of Israelis considered Netanyahu as the most trustworthy source of news related to the war against Hamas. Meanwhile, 73 per cent of the people said that official military spokesmen should be considered as the most trusted source.

<h2>Political establishments also against Netanyahu?</h2>

Not only the members of the public but also the highest echelons of the political establishments and security, believe the prime minister has been leading the country in this war.

“The daily decisions on the war are being made by the three ex-generals in the war cabinet,” said one senior official, while speaking about Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to former IDF chiefs of staff now-turned politicians Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot, who joined the government when the war started.&nbsp;As per reports, Netanyahu had dithered and delayed decisions regarding when the ground offensive should be launched and if the hostage-release deal and a week-long truce should be accepted.

While visiting the front lines recently, he was quoted as saying to soldiers, “We are not stopping. Whoever talks about stopping — there is no such thing. We are not stopping. The war will continue until the end, until we finish it, no less.”&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israel Army says, 'War in Gaza will last many more months'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israel-army-says-war-in-gaza-will-last-many-more-months-world-news-wion-673859/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Currently, Netanyahu's political ratings are plummeting and he has already been abandoned by large chunks of his nationalist base, as per the polls.&nbsp;

However, Israelis - who are traumatised by the October 7 massacre - are still supporting the war against Hamas and want Netanyahu to win back.

While speaking to The Times, an Israeli security official, who had earlier worked with the prime minister, said, “Netanyahu’s preferred image as Israel’s ‘Mr Security’ is not backed by his actions. Above all, he’s risk-averse and doesn’t like military situations which he feels he can’t control.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's popularity continues to wane amid the escalation in the war against Hamas and the increasing death toll on both sides.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's popularity continues to wane amid the escalation in the war against Hamas and the increasing death toll on both sides. In a poll carried out by Israel Democracy Institute in mid-December, it was reported that nearly 66 per cent of Israelis thought that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) has the military capabilities to destroy Hamas in Gaza. However, what is more shocking is that more than 69 per cent want elections to be conducted in the country as soon as the war is over. Meanwhile, nearly 39 per cent of those who voted for the Likud party of Netanyahu said that they are willing to do so again. Also read: Here's how 2023 turned out for Israel's PM Netanyahu amid war, protests Another survey was carried out by the Bar-Ilan University in which it was revealed that only 24 per cent of Israelis considered Netanyahu as the most trustworthy source of news related to the war against Hamas. Meanwhile, 73 per cent of the people said that official military spokesmen should be considered as the most trusted source. Political establishments also against Netanyahu? Not only the members of the public but also the highest echelons of the political establishments and security, believe the prime minister has been leading the country in this war. “The daily decisions on the war are being made by the three ex-generals in the war cabinet,” said one senior official, while speaking about Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to former IDF chiefs of staff now-turned politicians Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot, who joined the government when the war started. As per reports, Netanyahu had dithered and delayed decisions regarding when the ground offensive should be launched and if the hostage-release deal and a week-long truce should be accepted. While visiting the front lines recently, he was quoted as saying to soldiers, “We are not stopping. Whoever talks about stopping — there is no such thing. We are not stopping. The war will continue until the end, until we finish it, no less.” Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Israel Army says, 'War in Gaza will last many more months' Currently, Netanyahu's political ratings are plummeting and he has already been abandoned by large chunks of his nationalist base, as per the polls. However, Israelis - who are traumatised by the October 7 massacre - are still supporting the war against Hamas and want Netanyahu to win back. While speaking to The Times, an Israeli security official, who had earlier worked with the prime minister, said, “Netanyahu’s preferred image as Israel’s ‘Mr Security’ is not backed by his actions. Above all, he’s risk-averse and doesn’t like military situations which he feels he can’t control.” (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: PM Netanyahu’s popularity plummets further, say new polls

world

World, News on World, stories on World, articles on World, World stories at Wion, World news, World latest news

world news