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The phenomena of climate change and global warming took centre stage in South Asia too in 2023, perhaps like never before. Torrential unseasonal rains, floods, weather extremes, melting Himalayan ice, and more put the focus on the region being a major victim of climate change as well as the need for joint efforts from countries in South Asia to take on the problem.

Climate change: Impact on South Asia in 2023

China has stepped up efforts to gain greater strategic influence over nations in South Asia, particularly over the last year or so. Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal and Bhutan have all been targets of what has been termed China's debt diplomacy accounting for its rising influence. We decode China's 'String of Pearls' offensive that has raised alarm bells in New Delhi.

2023: SOUTH ASIA & THE CHINA INFLUENCE

The year gone by saw massive uptick in terrorist attacks in Pakistan. Apart from targeting civilians, many security personnel came under heavy attack. Attacks by militant groups in Pakistan have been on the rise, after the hardline Islamist militant group Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) withdrew from a ceasefire last year. But why have attacks on security forces increased and why the Pakistani government and the military failed to handle these attacks? According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies , an Islamabad-based research organisation. The first 11 months of the year witnessed 664 attacks an increase of 67 percent from 2022. Here's more

2023: A year of Pakistan's security lapses  7 pm schedule

India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Wednesday (Dec 27) hailed the "very strong" and "very steady" relationship between New Delhi and Moscow as he met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov to discuss bilateral cooperation in different spheres, international strategic situation, conflicts and tensions. Watch the video to know more!

Jaishankar on five-day Russia visit: Agreement signed on Kudankulam nuclear plant

From hosting leaders of 20 of the world's leading economies at the G20 summit in New Delhi... to becoming the first nation ever to land a craft on the moon's south pole, from a landmark rescue operation cutting through thick rock... to a new parliament building reflecting core democratic foundations, India scaled new highs in 2023. Here's taking you through some of India's biggest news moments of the year gone by.

2023: India emerges as a powerhouse |  Inside South Asia

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The Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission approved Sweden's NATO membership bid on Tuesday in a key step towards enlarging the Western bloc after 19 months of delays in which Ankara demanded security-related concessions from Stockholm.

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303 passengers predominantly Indians found themselves at the centre of a high-stakes legal showdown in France. The passengers detained by the French authorities are back in India. Out of 303, around 276 Indians are back in their country.

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Houthis claim responsibility for drone attack on Israeli port city of Eilat, Red Sea commercial vessel. Watch the video to know more.

Red Sea Attack: Houthis launch drones over Israel's Eilat

An acclaimed Turkish TV news anchor, Meltem Gunay, was terminated from her job for featuring a Starbucks cup on her desk during a broadcast. Notably, in the Muslim-majority country, the American coffeehouse chain is believed to be pro-Israel, a claim that&nbsp;Starbucks has rubbished saying that the protesters are "influenced by misrepresentation".

In Turkey, there has been a nationwide boycott of the Seattle-based company by coffee enthusiasts in the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;The 45-year-old veteran newscaster Gunay, who was working with TGRT Haber, a nationwide TV channel in Turkey, faced the flak along with the director of the newscast.

The program director was also immediately sacked after the controversial broadcast. It was confirmed by the Turkish television.

In a statement, the Istanbul-based media company asserted&nbsp;its commitment to "understanding&nbsp;the sensitivities of the Turkish people regarding Gaza and defends them to the end.” “We do not approve of this action of the presenter and director, whose employment contracts were terminated, and we strongly condemn it," the statement added.&nbsp;

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The TV channel, in its defence, said that the&nbsp;anchor and director were terminated&nbsp;for "just cause". In its clarification, the TV channel also clarified that they were found to have acted "contrary to this principle".

With anti-Israel sentiment gaining momentum in Turkey, many videos have gone viral where protesters were seen rallying outside Starbucks locations, demanding that customers boycott the coffee chain in the country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mv-chem-pluto-drone-attack-initial-investigation-of-debris-hints-at-iran-link-report-673892">MV Chem Pluto drone attack: Initial investigation of debris hints at Iran link, says report</a>

<h2>'Butcher of Gaza'</h2>

Turkey, historically allied with Israel, has shifted its stance under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Erdogan has adopted a more adversarial approach towards the West Asian country. Erdogan is quite critical of the Israeli government and has lamented and labelled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "the butcher of Gaza".

This comes as Erdogan&nbsp;denounced Israel as a "terror state" while also condemning the killing of Palestinians in the ongoing war with the Hamas militant group.

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The row over Starbucks' alleged pro-Israeli stance has also faced criticism beyond the Muslim-majority country in the United States. However, CEO Laxman Narasimhan, while addressing the controversy, rubbished all the allegations and said that what is shown on social media platforms is not what the coffee giant stands for.

(With inputs from agencies)

An acclaimed Turkish TV news anchor, Meltem Gunay, was terminated from her job for featuring a Starbucks cup on her desk during a broadcast. Notably, in the Muslim-majority country, the American coffeehouse chain is believed to be pro-Israel, a claim that Starbucks has rubbished saying that the protesters are "influenced by misrepresentation".

An acclaimed Turkish TV news anchor, Meltem Gunay, was terminated from her job for featuring a Starbucks cup on her desk during a broadcast. Notably, in the Muslim-majority country, the American coffeehouse chain is believed to be pro-Israel, a claim that Starbucks has rubbished saying that the protesters are "influenced by misrepresentation". In Turkey, there has been a nationwide boycott of the Seattle-based company by coffee enthusiasts in the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war. The 45-year-old veteran newscaster Gunay, who was working with TGRT Haber, a nationwide TV channel in Turkey, faced the flak along with the director of the newscast. The program director was also immediately sacked after the controversial broadcast. It was confirmed by the Turkish television. In a statement, the Istanbul-based media company asserted its commitment to "understanding the sensitivities of the Turkish people regarding Gaza and defends them to the end.” “We do not approve of this action of the presenter and director, whose employment contracts were terminated, and we strongly condemn it," the statement added. Also Read | Predator vs Prey: Alligator chomps down invasive python in Florida. Watch epic showdown here The TV channel, in its defence, said that the anchor and director were terminated for "just cause". In its clarification, the TV channel also clarified that they were found to have acted "contrary to this principle". With anti-Israel sentiment gaining momentum in Turkey, many videos have gone viral where protesters were seen rallying outside Starbucks locations, demanding that customers boycott the coffee chain in the country. Also Read | MV Chem Pluto drone attack: Initial investigation of debris hints at Iran link, says report 'Butcher of Gaza' Turkey, historically allied with Israel, has shifted its stance under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Erdogan has adopted a more adversarial approach towards the West Asian country. Erdogan is quite critical of the Israeli government and has lamented and labelled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "the butcher of Gaza". This comes as Erdogan denounced Israel as a "terror state" while also condemning the killing of Palestinians in the ongoing war with the Hamas militant group. Watch | Top Netanyahu confidant Ron Dermer in US for talks after concerns on arms supply delay × The row over Starbucks' alleged pro-Israeli stance has also faced criticism beyond the Muslim-majority country in the United States. However, CEO Laxman Narasimhan, while addressing the controversy, rubbished all the allegations and said that what is shown on social media platforms is not what the coffee giant stands for. (With inputs from agencies)

A visible Starbucks cup during news broadcast led to a Turkish TV anchor being sacked. Here's why

The family of a suspected Dublin gunman, who attempted to kill a father and his son on Christmas Eve, has launched a GoFundMe page to cover his funeral costs. The gunman identified as Tristan Sherry was stabbed to death in the aftermath of the attack he carried out at a Dublin steakhouse.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened on Christmas Eve?</h2>

On Christmas Eve, Jason Hennessy Snr was eating at Browne's steakhouse in Blanchardstorn, west Dublin, when a gunman, believed to be Sherry, shot him in the neck.

Sherry had reportedly barged into the restaurant which was packed with families, who all witnessed the attack.

However, as per Daily Mail, after entering the restaurant, Sherry was overpowered and received up to 30 stab wounds, which proved fatal.

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Shocking videos from the incident uploaded on social media appear to show Sherry lying in the street covered with blood, as a patron of the restaurant hits him over the head with a chair.

Police believe that the motive for the shooting is an ongoing feud between drug&nbsp;gangs in Corduff, Blanchardstown, and Finglas in north Dublin.

Following Sherry's death, the police now fear an all-out war between the two factions and have urged the public to avoid sharing videos of the incident.

<h2>The fundraiser</h2>

Marey Hand, who identified herself as Tristan Sherry's mother, has set up a fundraiser to cover the alleged gunman's funeral costs. The fundraiser aims to collect €7,000 (around $7733.95).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tv-news-anchor-sacked-in-turkey-after-starbucks-cup-on-broadcast-heres-why-673938">TV news anchor with Starbucks cup on broadcast sacked in Turkey. Here's why</a>

The grieving mother urging for donations wrote, "Hi my name is Marey Hand and my son was murdered on Christmas Eve, his name was Tristan Sherry. We made this to raise money for his funeral cost in this difficult time. We are absolutely heartbroken that this has happened."&nbsp;

"He was well known for his love of motorcycles and was loved by many. He was an amazing Son, Brother, Father and Friend. We can’t believe life has to go on without him," she added.&nbsp;

At the time this report was published, the fundraiser had received 35 donations, totalling €620 (around $685).

(With inputs from agencies)

The family of a suspected Dublin gunman, who attempted to kill a father and his son on Christmas Eve, has launched a GoFundMe page to cover his funeral costs. The gunman identified as Tristan Sherry was stabbed to death in the aftermath of the attack he carried out at a Dublin steakhouse.

The family of a suspected Dublin gunman, who attempted to kill a father and his son on Christmas Eve, has launched a GoFundMe page to cover his funeral costs. The gunman identified as Tristan Sherry was stabbed to death in the aftermath of the attack he carried out at a Dublin steakhouse. What happened on Christmas Eve? On Christmas Eve, Jason Hennessy Snr was eating at Browne's steakhouse in Blanchardstorn, west Dublin, when a gunman, believed to be Sherry, shot him in the neck. Sherry had reportedly barged into the restaurant which was packed with families, who all witnessed the attack. However, as per Daily Mail, after entering the restaurant, Sherry was overpowered and received up to 30 stab wounds, which proved fatal. Also read | Predator vs Prey: Alligator chomps down invasive python in Florida. Watch epic showdown here Shocking videos from the incident uploaded on social media appear to show Sherry lying in the street covered with blood, as a patron of the restaurant hits him over the head with a chair. Police believe that the motive for the shooting is an ongoing feud between drug gangs in Corduff, Blanchardstown, and Finglas in north Dublin. Following Sherry's death, the police now fear an all-out war between the two factions and have urged the public to avoid sharing videos of the incident. The fundraiser Marey Hand, who identified herself as Tristan Sherry's mother, has set up a fundraiser to cover the alleged gunman's funeral costs. The fundraiser aims to collect €7,000 (around $7733.95). Also read | TV news anchor with Starbucks cup on broadcast sacked in Turkey. Here's why The grieving mother urging for donations wrote, "Hi my name is Marey Hand and my son was murdered on Christmas Eve, his name was Tristan Sherry. We made this to raise money for his funeral cost in this difficult time. We are absolutely heartbroken that this has happened." "He was well known for his love of motorcycles and was loved by many. He was an amazing Son, Brother, Father and Friend. We can’t believe life has to go on without him," she added. At the time this report was published, the fundraiser had received 35 donations, totalling €620 (around $685). (With inputs from agencies)

Controversial fundraiser: Dublin gunman's family seeks donations for funeral expenses

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.

Delhi: Dense fog blankets India's Delhi-NCR region

Pakistan: Domestic violence against women emerging as silent pandemic, says report

A shocking video of former Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has emerged on the internet, showing the police and jail authorities manhandling, pushing, dragging and eventually detaining him. His detention came even as the country’s Supreme Court granted him bail in the state secrets case last week. He was due to be released Tuesday (Dec 26) but Rawalpindi authorities issued an order for his 15-day detention just before the release order. Before being taken away, Qureshi shouted, “They are making fun of Supreme Court’s order and arresting me in another false case.”

Pakistan: Former minister Mahmood Qureshi rearrested after release from jail

While paying tributes to China’s founding father Mao Zedong, President Xi Jinping reiterated the country’s longstanding will to unify Taiwan with mainland China in the future.

Speaking on the 130th anniversary of the late leader’s birth on Tuesday (Dec 26) in Beijing, the Chinese president expressed confidence, saying that the unification “will surely” happen.

“The complete reunification of our motherland is an overall trend, a righteous cause, and the common aspiration of the people. Our motherland must be reunified, and it will surely be reunified,” Xi said in his speech delivered at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, reports South China Morning Post news outlet.

“[We] firmly oppose anyone using any means to separate Taiwan from China.”

<h2>Xi seeks to elevate himself above Mao&nbsp;</h2>

Mao wanted to unify Taiwan with the mainland during his lifetime, but inadequate military power at that time prevented China from executing its plan.

Experts believe that by raking the Taiwan unification issue on&nbsp;Mao’s birth anniversary, Xi has sought to elevate himself above the late leader.

Xi’s Tuesday remarks come less than a month before Taiwanese voters elect the island’s next president.

China is apprehensive of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its presidential candidate, who is also the current Vice President Lai Ching-te. He is leading in the polls.

China has described them as the supporters of independence.

<h2>Taiwan's elections&nbsp;</h2>

Lai has said that he has no plans to change the island's formal name, the Republic of China, adding that only Taiwan's people can decide their future. He has also repeatedly offered talks with China but has been rebuffed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zambias-foreign-minister-stanley-kakubo-steps-down-after-public-outcry-over-chinese-business-dealings-673932">Zambia’s Foreign Minister Stanley Kakubo steps down after public outcry over Chinese business dealings</a>

Taiwan came into formation in 1949 after the Kuomintang (KMT), also known as the Chinese Nationalist Party (CNP), fled to the island after losing the civil war against Mao Zedong's communists, who founded the People's Republic of China,&nbsp;

Over the last few weeks, China has unleashed a series of coercive measures to try to interfere in Taiwan’s upcoming election, deploying military aircraft and balloons in&nbsp;areas near Taiwan and suspending tariff relief on imports of 12 Taiwanese petrochemical products.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-being-attacked-from-seven-sides-says-defence-minister-gallant-raises-fear-of-escalation-across-gulf-673851">Israel being attacked from seven sides, says Defence Minister Gallant, raises fear of escalation across Gulf</a>

On Wednesday, the Chinese government threatened to impose more sanctions on Taiwan if the ruling party "stubbornly" adheres to supporting independence.

"If the DPP authorities are determined to persevere, continue to stubbornly adhere to their Taiwan independence position, and refuse to repent, we support the relevant departments taking further measures in accordance with the regulations," Chen Binhua, spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, said.

While paying tributes to China’s founding father Mao Zedong, President Xi Jinping reiterated the country’s longstanding will to unify Taiwan with mainland China in the future.

While paying tributes to China’s founding father Mao Zedong, President Xi Jinping reiterated the country’s longstanding will to unify Taiwan with mainland China in the future. Speaking on the 130th anniversary of the late leader’s birth on Tuesday (Dec 26) in Beijing, the Chinese president expressed confidence, saying that the unification “will surely” happen. “The complete reunification of our motherland is an overall trend, a righteous cause, and the common aspiration of the people. Our motherland must be reunified, and it will surely be reunified,” Xi said in his speech delivered at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, reports South China Morning Post news outlet. “[We] firmly oppose anyone using any means to separate Taiwan from China.” Xi seeks to elevate himself above Mao Mao wanted to unify Taiwan with the mainland during his lifetime, but inadequate military power at that time prevented China from executing its plan. Experts believe that by raking the Taiwan unification issue on Mao’s birth anniversary, Xi has sought to elevate himself above the late leader. Xi’s Tuesday remarks come less than a month before Taiwanese voters elect the island’s next president. China is apprehensive of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its presidential candidate, who is also the current Vice President Lai Ching-te. He is leading in the polls. China has described them as the supporters of independence. Taiwan's elections Lai has said that he has no plans to change the island's formal name, the Republic of China, adding that only Taiwan's people can decide their future. He has also repeatedly offered talks with China but has been rebuffed. Also read | Zambia’s Foreign Minister Stanley Kakubo steps down after public outcry over Chinese business dealings Taiwan came into formation in 1949 after the Kuomintang (KMT), also known as the Chinese Nationalist Party (CNP), fled to the island after losing the civil war against Mao Zedong's communists, who founded the People's Republic of China, Over the last few weeks, China has unleashed a series of coercive measures to try to interfere in Taiwan’s upcoming election, deploying military aircraft and balloons in areas near Taiwan and suspending tariff relief on imports of 12 Taiwanese petrochemical products. Also read | Israel being attacked from seven sides, says Defence Minister Gallant, raises fear of escalation across Gulf On Wednesday, the Chinese government threatened to impose more sanctions on Taiwan if the ruling party "stubbornly" adheres to supporting independence. "If the DPP authorities are determined to persevere, continue to stubbornly adhere to their Taiwan independence position, and refuse to repent, we support the relevant departments taking further measures in accordance with the regulations," Chen Binhua, spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, said.

Taiwan’s unification with China ‘will surely’ happen, says Xi Jinping on Mao’s anniversary

Japan's SLIM lander entered the moon's orbit. As Japan strives to become the fifth country in the world to achieve a successful lunar landing. The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon is slated to execute the landing on the lunar surface on January 20.

Japan's moon lander 'Slim' enters Lunar orbit | Japan a step closer to becoming 5th nation on moon

India warns seafarers of drone attacks urges to stay vigilant & monitor waters

The police in the Indian state of Gujarat have formed teams to bust a suspected illegal immigration network involving "agents" and will coordinate with passengers of the plane that landed in Mumbai from France on Tuesday, a senior officer said. He said many passengers hail from Gujarat.

The plane, an Airbus A340, carrying 276 passengers, mostly Indians, was grounded in France for four days over suspected human trafficking. It landed in Mumbai in the early hours on Tuesday, an official said. Speaking about the incident, Superintendent of Police, CID (Crime) Sanjay Kharat said, "The CID crime wants to take action against agents who had promised help to the victims to enter the US and other countries (illegally). We have formed four teams which will get information from the victims regarding the promises made to them by these agents."&nbsp;

He added that most of the passengers present on the chartered plane, which had returned from France, were from districts of Patan, Mehsana, Banaskantha and Anand.

"Police will coordinate with the passengers when they reach Gujarat from Mumbai to find out the agents and agencies involved and whether documents provided to them to migrate to the US and other countries were forged," Kharat said.

The SP said that the police officials will also make efforts to learn about the number of people who have flown abroad in a similar way as well as those who have been seeking to travel in this manner.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-grounds-plane-filled-with-300-indians-over-suspected-human-trafficking-672603">France grounds plane, filled with 303 Indians, over suspected 'human trafficking'</a>

He added that the CID so far has "raw information" about the agents who were involved in sending the Indians abroad and will try to gather more information by questioning the concerned passengers.

Kharat said that different agents, who have been involved in illegal immigration work, have been working in tandem. "The agents working at the village and district levels are small players controlled by the kingpin who works at the international level," he said.

He said that the investigation will be carried out by the Gujarat police and they will try to understand how the agents operate.

"Different agencies use different modus operandi based on the requirement of persons seeking to migrate like whether they require forged documents etc., and rates are fixed accordingly," said the SP, further stating that they will question the victims and the police will try to reach the kingpin.

Romanian charter company Legend Airlines was operating the charter flight - which was bound for Nicaragua from Dubai - and had landed at Vatry, close to Paris, for a technical stopover when it was detained by the French police.

Watch:&nbsp;India-France row: Gujarat police forms teams to probe suspected 'illegal migration'&nbsp;

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A judicial investigation was launched by the French authorities into the purpose and conditions of the trip. Meanwhile, a unit, which specialises in organised crime investigation, suspected human trafficking.

<h2>'Most fliers had return tickets', says lawyer</h2>

Meanwhile, the lawyer of the airline Liliana Bakayoko, while speaking to NDTV on Tuesday (Dec 26), said, "I am the lawyer of the company. My colleagues who defended the passengers before the judge told the media that the passengers they defended all had return tickets. They had hotel reservations and return tickets... I don't know for when, actually. But not for the next day."

While speaking about reports suggesting that only 12 of the 303 passengers had a return ticket, the lawyer said, "The company's aeroplane was hired by a client, which is a foreign company, to perform such flights. According to my colleagues in France, all the passengers they defended, almost all of them had return tickets and hotel reservations. But it is true that only three passengers were heard by the judge."

(With inputs from agencies)

The police in the Indian state of Gujarat have formed teams to bust a suspected illegal immigration network involving "agents" and will coordinate with passengers of the plane that landed in Mumbai from France on Tuesday, a senior officer said.

The police in the Indian state of Gujarat have formed teams to bust a suspected illegal immigration network involving "agents" and will coordinate with passengers of the plane that landed in Mumbai from France on Tuesday, a senior officer said. He said many passengers hail from Gujarat. The plane, an Airbus A340, carrying 276 passengers, mostly Indians, was grounded in France for four days over suspected human trafficking. It landed in Mumbai in the early hours on Tuesday, an official said. Speaking about the incident, Superintendent of Police, CID (Crime) Sanjay Kharat said, "The CID crime wants to take action against agents who had promised help to the victims to enter the US and other countries (illegally). We have formed four teams which will get information from the victims regarding the promises made to them by these agents." He added that most of the passengers present on the chartered plane, which had returned from France, were from districts of Patan, Mehsana, Banaskantha and Anand. "Police will coordinate with the passengers when they reach Gujarat from Mumbai to find out the agents and agencies involved and whether documents provided to them to migrate to the US and other countries were forged," Kharat said. The SP said that the police officials will also make efforts to learn about the number of people who have flown abroad in a similar way as well as those who have been seeking to travel in this manner. Also read: France grounds plane, filled with 303 Indians, over suspected 'human trafficking' He added that the CID so far has "raw information" about the agents who were involved in sending the Indians abroad and will try to gather more information by questioning the concerned passengers. Kharat said that different agents, who have been involved in illegal immigration work, have been working in tandem. "The agents working at the village and district levels are small players controlled by the kingpin who works at the international level," he said. He said that the investigation will be carried out by the Gujarat police and they will try to understand how the agents operate. "Different agencies use different modus operandi based on the requirement of persons seeking to migrate like whether they require forged documents etc., and rates are fixed accordingly," said the SP, further stating that they will question the victims and the police will try to reach the kingpin. Romanian charter company Legend Airlines was operating the charter flight - which was bound for Nicaragua from Dubai - and had landed at Vatry, close to Paris, for a technical stopover when it was detained by the French police. Watch: India-France row: Gujarat police forms teams to probe suspected 'illegal migration' A judicial investigation was launched by the French authorities into the purpose and conditions of the trip. Meanwhile, a unit, which specialises in organised crime investigation, suspected human trafficking. 'Most fliers had return tickets', says lawyer Meanwhile, the lawyer of the airline Liliana Bakayoko, while speaking to NDTV on Tuesday (Dec 26), said, "I am the lawyer of the company. My colleagues who defended the passengers before the judge told the media that the passengers they defended all had return tickets. They had hotel reservations and return tickets... I don't know for when, actually. But not for the next day." While speaking about reports suggesting that only 12 of the 303 passengers had a return ticket, the lawyer said, "The company's aeroplane was hired by a client, which is a foreign company, to perform such flights. According to my colleagues in France, all the passengers they defended, almost all of them had return tickets and hotel reservations. But it is true that only three passengers were heard by the judge." (With inputs from agencies)

France plane row: Indian police form teams to bust illegal immigration network

Israel on Tuesday (Dec 26) returned&nbsp;the remains of 80 Palestinians who had lost their lives in Gaza. The bodies were taken from morgues and graves, and were put through careful scrutiny to ensure that there were no hostages among them.

News agency AFP, quoting unnamed sources within the territory's health ministry, reported that the bodies which had been transported to Israel were being returned through the Red Cross.&nbsp;

<h2>What will happen to the bodies?</h2>

The international organisation handed over the remains to Hamas authorities, who buried them in a mass grave, reports AFP. A photojournalist with the news agency reportedly witnessed blue body bags being lowered into a trench in Rafah, in the far south of Gaza.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/broken-pelvises-mutilated-bodiesdid-hamas-use-rape-as-weapon-of-war-666257">Explained: 'Broken pelvises, mutilated bodies'...Did Hamas use rape as weapon of war in Israel?</a>

After Israel carried out its inspection of the bodies, they were returned to the Red Cross, transported via the Kerem Shalom crossing—the vital link connecting Israel and the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;Following this, a truck carried the bodies to their final resting place in the mass grave.

<h2>Israeli hostages</h2>

The backdrop to this can be traced back to the unfortunate events of October 7 when Hamas militants launched an attack on southern Israel. There, they abducted approximately 200&nbsp;hostages and them to the Gaza Strip. Approximately 129 hostages still remain in Hamas captivity in Gaza.

Around 1,140 people lost their lives in the initial attack, as per Israel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-being-attacked-from-seven-sides-says-defence-minister-gallant-raises-fear-of-escalation-across-gulf-673851">Israel being attacked from seven sides, says Defence Minister Gallant, raises fear of escalation across Gulf</a>

Since the beginning of the war, more than 20,900 have been killed in Israel's retaliatory attacks on Gaza—most of them women and children, reports the health ministry in the Hamas-controlled Gaza. Additionally, around 55,000 people have been wounded.

Israel has vowed to destroy the Palestinian militant organisation. Even as international calls for a ceasefire gain traction, Israel has repeatedly reiterated that the war will continue till Hamas is destroyed.

On Tuesday, in a televised statement, Israel's Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi said that the war would go on "for many months".

"There are no magic solutions, there are no shortcuts in dismantling a terrorist organisation, only determined and persistent fighting," he said, adding "We will reach Hamas' leadership too, whether it takes a week or if it takes months."

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Tuesday (Dec 26) returned the remains of 80 Palestinians who had lost their lives in Gaza. The bodies were taken from morgues and graves, and were put through careful scrutiny to ensure that there were no hostages among them.

Israel on Tuesday (Dec 26) returned the remains of 80 Palestinians who had lost their lives in Gaza. The bodies were taken from morgues and graves, and were put through careful scrutiny to ensure that there were no hostages among them. News agency AFP, quoting unnamed sources within the territory's health ministry, reported that the bodies which had been transported to Israel were being returned through the Red Cross. What will happen to the bodies? The international organisation handed over the remains to Hamas authorities, who buried them in a mass grave, reports AFP. A photojournalist with the news agency reportedly witnessed blue body bags being lowered into a trench in Rafah, in the far south of Gaza. Also read | Explained: 'Broken pelvises, mutilated bodies'...Did Hamas use rape as weapon of war in Israel? After Israel carried out its inspection of the bodies, they were returned to the Red Cross, transported via the Kerem Shalom crossing—the vital link connecting Israel and the Gaza Strip. Following this, a truck carried the bodies to their final resting place in the mass grave. Israeli hostages The backdrop to this can be traced back to the unfortunate events of October 7 when Hamas militants launched an attack on southern Israel. There, they abducted approximately 200 hostages and them to the Gaza Strip. Approximately 129 hostages still remain in Hamas captivity in Gaza. Around 1,140 people lost their lives in the initial attack, as per Israel. Also read | Israel being attacked from seven sides, says Defence Minister Gallant, raises fear of escalation across Gulf Since the beginning of the war, more than 20,900 have been killed in Israel's retaliatory attacks on Gaza—most of them women and children, reports the health ministry in the Hamas-controlled Gaza. Additionally, around 55,000 people have been wounded. Israel has vowed to destroy the Palestinian militant organisation. Even as international calls for a ceasefire gain traction, Israel has repeatedly reiterated that the war will continue till Hamas is destroyed. On Tuesday, in a televised statement, Israel's Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi said that the war would go on "for many months". "There are no magic solutions, there are no shortcuts in dismantling a terrorist organisation, only determined and persistent fighting," he said, adding "We will reach Hamas' leadership too, whether it takes a week or if it takes months." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel returns 80 bodies it took from morgues and graves in Gaza for 'examination'

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, who is in Russia on a five-day visit, once again exuded confidence in the relations between New Delhi and Moscow saying that the ties have remained unfazed even as it is not the same with geopolitical dynamics between other countries over many decades.&nbsp;

Jaishankar arrived in Moscow on Christmas (Dec 25) and he is due to hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday (Dec 27) where one of the top priorities&nbsp;will remain the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and Russia-Ukraine crisis that will complete its second year in February next year.

While addressing the Indian community in Moscow on Tuesday (Dec 26), Jaishankar said, "Relationship between India and Russia, in many ways is exceptional...if one looks at last 60, 70, 80 years of politics among the major countries. They have had their relationships, but all these relationships have their ups and downs...Russia and China, Russia and USA, Russia and Europe, India and China, India and USA. You would see over time, there are good periods, there are difficulties, stresses, and very good memories and great achievements".

"To me, what is exceptional about India-Russia relationships. From the early 50s, for 70-80 odd years. There have been big changes in this period. The Soviet Union became the Russian Federation, big changes have happened in world politics, Russia has transformed, and India has grown. But, if there is one constant in world politics, it has actually been the relationship between India and Russia," he added, as per PTI news agency.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-orders-social-media-companies-to-curb-deepfake-content-after-pm-raises-concerns-673962">India orders social media companies to curb deepfake content after PM raises concerns</a>

<section>
The comments by Jaishankar come as time-tested allies, India and Russia, continue to enjoy strong relations. Russia's arms sales to India, especially during the Cold War era, is one of the key aspects of friendly and steadfast relations between the nations.

This stands true even as India is seeking to diversify its arsenal. Moreover, even though the war in Ukraine has made Russia tilt towards China, the relations between New Delhi and Moscow remain unshakeable.&nbsp;
</section>

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-centres-report-highlights-maritime-security-threat-from-drone-attacks-in-indian-ocean-region-673945">Indian Navy centre's report highlights maritime security threat from drone attacks in Indian Ocean region</a>

Despite sanctions by the West, India, which says that its decisions are based on national interests and on mutual benefits between countries, has continued its oil imports from Russia. In November, India's Russian oil imports saw an increase of 3 per cent in comparison to October, media reports said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-pm-modi-discusses-maritime-security-with-saudi-crown-prince-mbs-wion-newspoint-673935">India PM Modi discusses maritime security with Saudi Crown Prince MBS&nbsp;</a>

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"Interacted with the Indian community in Moscow. Appreciated their contribution to building a strong and steady collaboration between India and Russia. The Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership reflects experiences and sentiments of last 75 years. Urged the community to contribute to deepening of mutually beneficial cooperation. Their role in promoting close ties between our civil societies is invaluable. An Atmanirbhar Bharat will deepen ties with Russia in a multipolar world," Jaishankar wrote on X social media platform.&nbsp;

The talks between Jaishankar and Lavrov will also feature deliberations on bilateral relations between the historical allies and BRICS grouping.
</section>

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, who is in Russia on a five-day visit, once again exuded confidence in the relations between New Delhi and Moscow saying that the ties have remained unfazed even as it is not the same with geopolitical dynamics between other countries over many decades.

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, who is in Russia on a five-day visit, once again exuded confidence in the relations between New Delhi and Moscow saying that the ties have remained unfazed even as it is not the same with geopolitical dynamics between other countries over many decades. Jaishankar arrived in Moscow on Christmas (Dec 25) and he is due to hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday (Dec 27) where one of the top priorities will remain the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and Russia-Ukraine crisis that will complete its second year in February next year. While addressing the Indian community in Moscow on Tuesday (Dec 26), Jaishankar said, "Relationship between India and Russia, in many ways is exceptional...if one looks at last 60, 70, 80 years of politics among the major countries. They have had their relationships, but all these relationships have their ups and downs...Russia and China, Russia and USA, Russia and Europe, India and China, India and USA. You would see over time, there are good periods, there are difficulties, stresses, and very good memories and great achievements". "To me, what is exceptional about India-Russia relationships. From the early 50s, for 70-80 odd years. There have been big changes in this period. The Soviet Union became the Russian Federation, big changes have happened in world politics, Russia has transformed, and India has grown. But, if there is one constant in world politics, it has actually been the relationship between India and Russia," he added, as per PTI news agency. Also Read | India orders social media companies to curb deepfake content after PM raises concerns The comments by Jaishankar come as time-tested allies, India and Russia, continue to enjoy strong relations. Russia's arms sales to India, especially during the Cold War era, is one of the key aspects of friendly and steadfast relations between the nations. This stands true even as India is seeking to diversify its arsenal. Moreover, even though the war in Ukraine has made Russia tilt towards China, the relations between New Delhi and Moscow remain unshakeable. Also Read | Indian Navy centre's report highlights maritime security threat from drone attacks in Indian Ocean region Despite sanctions by the West, India, which says that its decisions are based on national interests and on mutual benefits between countries, has continued its oil imports from Russia. In November, India's Russian oil imports saw an increase of 3 per cent in comparison to October, media reports said. Watch | India PM Modi discusses maritime security with Saudi Crown Prince MBS × "Interacted with the Indian community in Moscow. Appreciated their contribution to building a strong and steady collaboration between India and Russia. The Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership reflects experiences and sentiments of last 75 years. Urged the community to contribute to deepening of mutually beneficial cooperation. Their role in promoting close ties between our civil societies is invaluable. An Atmanirbhar Bharat will deepen ties with Russia in a multipolar world," Jaishankar wrote on X social media platform. The talks between Jaishankar and Lavrov will also feature deliberations on bilateral relations between the historical allies and BRICS grouping. (With inputs from agencies)

India-Russia ties unfazed over several decades: Jaishankar to Indian community in Moscow

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