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The Indian navy has highlighted the increasing peril of drone attacks in the Red Sea and northern Arabian Sea. Its November 2023 security report on the Indian Ocean on the threat comes amid this month's attack on two India-bound vessels M-V Chem Pluto and M-V Sai Baba. The report calls the trend a growing cause of concern for commercial shipping, and global trade transiting through the Indian Ocean region.

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<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>He said that the investigation will be carried out by the Gujarat police and they will try to understand how the agents operate.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India-France row: Gujarat police forms teams to probe suspected 'illegal migration'&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-france-row-gujarat-police-forms-teams-to-probe-suspected-illegal-migration-wion-673903/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>'Most fliers had return tickets', says lawyer</strong></h2>

<p>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."</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>What will happen to the bodies?</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli hostages</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Around 1,140 people lost their lives in the initial attack, as per Israel.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, in a televised statement, Israel's Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi said that the war would go on "for many months".</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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'

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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".</p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>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></p>

<section>
<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>
</section>

<p>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></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

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<p>"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;</p>

<p>The talks between Jaishankar and Lavrov will also feature deliberations on bilateral relations between the historical allies and BRICS grouping.</p>
</section>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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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<p>Zambia’s Foreign Minister Stanley Kakubo stepped down following massive public outcry over his alleged dealings with a Chinese businessman.</p>

<p>The announcement came on Tuesday (Dec 26) from the president’s office, hours after a social media frenzy triggered by a video depicting individuals counting substantial sums of cash.</p>

<p>The scandal gained traction after a purported handwritten note, along with the video, went viral on social media, suggesting dealings between a Chinese and a Zambian mining firm, involving a hefty sum of $100,000.</p>

<p>The note, dated July 8, 2022, had the names of Kakubo and a certain ‘Mr. Zang’. However, WION could not verify the authenticity of these details.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hon <a href="https://twitter.com/HonKakubo1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HonKakubo1</a> is that you ? <a href="https://twitter.com/HHichilema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HHichilema</a> people are saying your minister Stanley Kakubo received money from a Chinese &amp; we want answers the corrupt are in your cabinet if you don’t act will be sure you’re just persecuting opposition using <a href="https://twitter.com/ACCZambia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ACCZambia</a> fight real corruption HH <a href="https://t.co/0q4Glv4xRo">pic.twitter.com/0q4Glv4xRo</a></p>
— CLEMENTINA (@clementinalombe) <a href="https://twitter.com/clementinalombe/status/1739528547285275053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>President commends Kabuko's work&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The president’s office released a statement confirming that Kabuko has resigned and applauded his leadership and commendable work during his tenure.</p>

<p>“The President thanks Hon, Kakubo MP for his service to the Government of the Republic of Zambia as Cabinet Minister and implores him to continue to serve diligently in his capacity as Member of Parliament for Kapiri Mposhi Constituency,” President Hakainde Hichilem said, without specifying the reason for his resignation.</p>

<p>However, 43-year-old Kakubo, an MP since 2016, quickly issued his own statement, giving reasons as to what made him take the decision</p>

<p>&nbsp;“In view of the matter that is currently in the media regarding malicious claims over a business transaction between my private family business and our business partner with whom we still have good relation,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-parliamentary-committee-greenlights-swedens-nato-bid-673826">Turkish parliamentary committee greenlights Sweden’s NATO bid</a></p>

<p>“This decision is to ensure that our government is not distracted from continuing to look for solutions for bettering the lives of our people,” he said, adding that he would remain “loyal” to the government.</p>

<h2><strong>China's influence in Zambia</strong></h2>

<p>Zambia, endowed with many natural resources, is heavily reliant on copper mining. It has been a part of the country’s history and remains its economic backbone to date.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-considers-lowering-military-mobilisation-age-to-25-almost-two-years-into-war-with-russia-673603">Ukraine considers lowering military mobilisation age to 25, almost two years into war with Russia</a></p>

<p>China, a major importer of Zambian copper, is heavily involved in the Zambian mining industry.</p>

<p>Furthermore, China has also been a major player in international efforts to restructure Zambia’s foreign debt. Zambia defaulted on its sovereign debt in 2020 as the COVID-19 crisis grew, reports AFP news agency.</p>


Zambia’s Foreign Minister Stanley Kakubo stepped down following massive public outcry over his alleged dealings with a Chinese businessman. The announcement came on Tuesday (Dec 26) from the president’s office, hours after a social media frenzy triggered by a video depicting individuals counting substantial sums of cash.

Zambia’s Foreign Minister Stanley Kakubo stepped down following massive public outcry over his alleged dealings with a Chinese businessman. The announcement came on Tuesday (Dec 26) from the president’s office, hours after a social media frenzy triggered by a video depicting individuals counting substantial sums of cash. The scandal gained traction after a purported handwritten note, along with the video, went viral on social media, suggesting dealings between a Chinese and a Zambian mining firm, involving a hefty sum of $100,000. The note, dated July 8, 2022, had the names of Kakubo and a certain ‘Mr. Zang’. However, WION could not verify the authenticity of these details. Hon @HonKakubo1 is that you ? @HHichilema people are saying your minister Stanley Kakubo received money from a Chinese & we want answers the corrupt are in your cabinet if you don’t act will be sure you’re just persecuting opposition using @ACCZambia fight real corruption HH pic.twitter.com/0q4Glv4xRo — CLEMENTINA (@clementinalombe) December 26, 2023 × President commends Kabuko's work The president’s office released a statement confirming that Kabuko has resigned and applauded his leadership and commendable work during his tenure. “The President thanks Hon, Kakubo MP for his service to the Government of the Republic of Zambia as Cabinet Minister and implores him to continue to serve diligently in his capacity as Member of Parliament for Kapiri Mposhi Constituency,” President Hakainde Hichilem said, without specifying the reason for his resignation. However, 43-year-old Kakubo, an MP since 2016, quickly issued his own statement, giving reasons as to what made him take the decision “In view of the matter that is currently in the media regarding malicious claims over a business transaction between my private family business and our business partner with whom we still have good relation,” he said. Also read | Turkish parliamentary committee greenlights Sweden’s NATO bid “This decision is to ensure that our government is not distracted from continuing to look for solutions for bettering the lives of our people,” he said, adding that he would remain “loyal” to the government. China's influence in Zambia Zambia, endowed with many natural resources, is heavily reliant on copper mining. It has been a part of the country’s history and remains its economic backbone to date. Also read | Ukraine considers lowering military mobilisation age to 25, almost two years into war with Russia China, a major importer of Zambian copper, is heavily involved in the Zambian mining industry. Furthermore, China has also been a major player in international efforts to restructure Zambia’s foreign debt. Zambia defaulted on its sovereign debt in 2020 as the COVID-19 crisis grew, reports AFP news agency.

Zambia’s Foreign Minister Stanley Kakubo steps down after public outcry over Chinese business dealings

Six more Caesar truck-mounted howitzers from Nexter will be sent to Ukraine to aid in the expulsion of Russian occupation soldiers. According to the French Ministry of Defense on X, since last year, Ukraine has already acquired 30 Caesars: 18 from France and 12 from the manufacturer Nexter.

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Kanye West took to social media to make an apology for his statement that was made in Hebrew, it read, 'Your forgiveness is important to me and I am committed to making amends and promoting unity'.

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As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its 672 day. Russia has deployed its howitzers close to Finland's border after to seized the town of Maryinka in eastern Ukriane which is deemed as a gateway for Donestk, meanwhile, Ukraine has destroyed a landing ship in an attack on a naval base in Crimea. 22 months since Russia invaded Ukraine. It has about one-fifth of ukraine in its grip and the roughly 1,000 km front line has barely budged this year.

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Iran has increased the rate at which it is producing near weapons-grade uranium in recent weeks, reversing a previous slowdown that started in the middle of this year, the International Atomic Energy Agency said in a report to member states.

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Japan's nuclear power regulator has lifted an operational ban it imposed on Tokyo's Kashiwazaki-kariwa power plant. This will pave the way for the world's biggest nuclear plant to resume its path towards restart. It is a positive step for Tokyo Electric Power Company or Tepco. The power plant was banned from restarting due to security issues at the facility. Japan's nuclear watchdog earlier this month said that safety issues surrounding the plant have been corrected.

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The Israeli army early on Wednesday announced three more soldiers were killed in the clashes in the northern Gaza Strip.

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Just a couple of weeks ahead of the January 13 election in Taiwan, Chinese President Xi Jinping has vowed to prevent anyone from splitting the island from China. His comments assume significance given how Beijing has been ramping up military and political pressure to assert its sovereignty claims over Taipei.

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According to a latest report, domestic violence is emerging as a silent pandemic in the country. The report titled 'Gendered impacts of the Covid-19 Pandemic in Central & West Asia'.

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Chinese automaker BYD came within a whisker of toppling Tesla as the world's biggest electric car manufacturer in the July-September this year.

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The Alps make up the most popular ski destination in the world. but the industry now faces an existential threat as it battles the looming danger of climate change. The region's warmest autumn on record forced many ski resorts in the Alps to delay their opening times this year.

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Russia is expected to position its all-new howitzers in its northern military district. The district shares its borders with Finland and Norway. This is according to the latest statement released by the Rostec state defence conglomerate.

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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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Zambia’s Foreign Minister Stanley Kakubo stepped down following massive public outcry over his alleged dealings with a Chinese businessman.

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The Turkish air force conducted air strikes in northern Iraq and Syria and destroyed 29 targets of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) after 12 soldiers were killed in the past two days in northern Iraq. Turkish strikes have killed 92 in Syria in 2023.

Turkey steps up war on Kurdish militants after 12 soldiers were killed

<p>Egypt has come out with a peace proposal plan to end the Israel-Hamas war, calling for a phased hostage release and the formation of a Palestinian government of experts to administer the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank.</p>

<p>AP news agency on Monday (Dec 26) reported, citing a senior Egyptian official and a European diplomat familiar with the proposal, that the plan was worked out with the help of Qatar and presented to Israel, Hamas, the United States and European governments.</p>

<p>However, the report did not mention when the proposal was sent to the Israeli government.</p>

<p>Egypt and Qatar have been the mediators between Israel and Hamas, while the United States, a key power in the Gulf region, is a staunch ally of Tel Aviv.</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu reiterates plan to destroy Hamas&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Though the Israeli government has so far not responded to the purported proposal, Netanyahu, in an opinion piece for the Wall Street Journal, asserted that his country's only goal is to destroy Hamas and “de-radicalise” Palestinians.</p>

<p>“Hamas must be destroyed, Gaza must be demilitarised, and Palestinian society must be deradicalized. These are the three prerequisites for peace between Israel and its Palestinian neighbours in Gaza,” he said.</p>

<p>“To achieve that goal, its military capabilities must be dismantled and its political rule over Gaza must end. Hamas’s leaders have vowed to repeat the Oct. 7 massacre ‘again and again’. That is why their destruction is the only proportional response to prevent the repeat of such horrific atrocities. Anything less guarantees more war and more bloodshed,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Bloodshed in Gaza</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>He further said that once Israel achieves its goal, &nbsp;“Gaza can be rebuilt and the prospects of a broader peace in the Middle East will become a reality.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-retaliatory-attacks-in-iraq-after-militants-target-military-base-leaving-three-injured-673548">US retaliates in Iraq after attack on military base leaves 3 injured</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the developments of a peace proposal come amidst Israel’s fresh airstrikes across Gaza before Christmas day that killed dozens of Palestinians, while Israel lost 17 troops in ground fighting in the north, centre and south of the territory.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-says-visited-gaza-vows-to-intensify-fighting-673432">Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says visited Gaza, vows to 'intensify' fighting</a></p>

<p>The war has devastated large parts of Gaza, killed more than 20,400 Palestinians and displaced almost all of the territory’s 2.3 million people.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>


Egypt has come out with a peace proposal plan to end the Israel-Hamas war, calling for a phased hostage release and the formation of a Palestinian government of experts to administer the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank.

Egypt has come out with a peace proposal plan to end the Israel-Hamas war, calling for a phased hostage release and the formation of a Palestinian government of experts to administer the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank. AP news agency on Monday (Dec 26) reported, citing a senior Egyptian official and a European diplomat familiar with the proposal, that the plan was worked out with the help of Qatar and presented to Israel, Hamas, the United States and European governments. However, the report did not mention when the proposal was sent to the Israeli government. Egypt and Qatar have been the mediators between Israel and Hamas, while the United States, a key power in the Gulf region, is a staunch ally of Tel Aviv. Netanyahu reiterates plan to destroy Hamas Though the Israeli government has so far not responded to the purported proposal, Netanyahu, in an opinion piece for the Wall Street Journal, asserted that his country's only goal is to destroy Hamas and “de-radicalise” Palestinians. “Hamas must be destroyed, Gaza must be demilitarised, and Palestinian society must be deradicalized. These are the three prerequisites for peace between Israel and its Palestinian neighbours in Gaza,” he said. “To achieve that goal, its military capabilities must be dismantled and its political rule over Gaza must end. Hamas’s leaders have vowed to repeat the Oct. 7 massacre ‘again and again’. That is why their destruction is the only proportional response to prevent the repeat of such horrific atrocities. Anything less guarantees more war and more bloodshed,” he added. Bloodshed in Gaza He further said that once Israel achieves its goal, “Gaza can be rebuilt and the prospects of a broader peace in the Middle East will become a reality.” Also read | US retaliates in Iraq after attack on military base leaves 3 injured Meanwhile, the developments of a peace proposal come amidst Israel’s fresh airstrikes across Gaza before Christmas day that killed dozens of Palestinians, while Israel lost 17 troops in ground fighting in the north, centre and south of the territory. Also read | Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says visited Gaza, vows to 'intensify' fighting The war has devastated large parts of Gaza, killed more than 20,400 Palestinians and displaced almost all of the territory’s 2.3 million people. (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.

Egypt comes out with peace plan to end war, as Israel's Netanyahu hell-bent on destroying Hamas

Experts are calling Israel's offense in Gaza, the 'deadliest is history.' The said war had more destruction in Gaza than Germany in World War 2. The Israel-Hamas war caused more damage in Gaza than Syria's Aleppo witnessed from 2012-2016.

Israel-Hamas war: Experts call Israel's offense in Gaza, the 'deadliest in history'

<p>The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Monday (Dec 25) said it was investigating threats being made against the Colorado Supreme Court justices who ruled last week that ex-President Donald Trump was ineligible to become a presidential candidate.</p>

<p>“The FBI is aware of the situation and working with local law enforcement,” FBI Public Affairs Officer Vikki Migoya said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We will vigorously pursue investigations of any threat or use of violence committed by someone who uses extremist views to justify their actions regardless of motivation,” he added.</p>

<p>A spokesperson for the Colorado Judicial Branch said the threats would be handled by local police authorities, without giving any further explanation.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Hoax report’</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Denver Police Department (DPD) said it responded to a report by a justice’s residence Thursday evening (Dec 21) but it appeared to be a “hoax.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump barred from Colorado ballot</strong></p>

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<p>“Everything checked clear and we are continuing to investigate this report. Due to security and privacy considerations, and the ongoing investigation, we are unable to provide any additional information at this time,” DPD said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Online threats against judges</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report&nbsp;by CNN, the names of the four judges who ruled against Trump constantly keep cropping up in incendiary posts online, often made on far-right groups and platforms.</p>

<p>However, the report, prepared by one non-partisan research organisation for US law enforcement agencies, did not mention about any specific threats to the judges.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colorado-supreme-court-judges-receiving-online-hate-after-ruling-against-donald-trump-672063"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Colorado Supreme Court judges receiving online hate after ruling against Donald Trump: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier, a report by Advance Democracy, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organisation that conducts public interest research, claimed to have found "significant violent rhetoric" against the justices and Democrats on the Trump-owned social media platform Truth Social.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They found that some social media users posted justices' email addresses, phone numbers and office building addresses, reports NBC News.</p>

<h2><strong>What was the controversial ruling?</strong></h2>

<p>The four judges ruled last week, in a 4-3 judgment, that Trump is not qualified to run for the presidency in the 2024 presidential elections because of the 14th Amendment’s “insurrectionist ban” and therefore can’t appear on the state’s ballot when voters gather for the GOP primary scheduled there for March 5.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Monday (Dec 25) said it was investigating threats being made against the Colorado Supreme Court justices who ruled last week that ex-President Donald Trump was ineligible to become a presidential candidate.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Monday (Dec 25) said it was investigating threats being made against the Colorado Supreme Court justices who ruled last week that ex-President Donald Trump was ineligible to become a presidential candidate. “The FBI is aware of the situation and working with local law enforcement,” FBI Public Affairs Officer Vikki Migoya said in a statement. “We will vigorously pursue investigations of any threat or use of violence committed by someone who uses extremist views to justify their actions regardless of motivation,” he added. A spokesperson for the Colorado Judicial Branch said the threats would be handled by local police authorities, without giving any further explanation. ‘Hoax report’ Meanwhile, the Denver Police Department (DPD) said it responded to a report by a justice’s residence Thursday evening (Dec 21) but it appeared to be a “hoax.” Watch: Donald Trump barred from Colorado ballot × “Everything checked clear and we are continuing to investigate this report. Due to security and privacy considerations, and the ongoing investigation, we are unable to provide any additional information at this time,” DPD said in a statement. Online threats against judges According to a report by CNN, the names of the four judges who ruled against Trump constantly keep cropping up in incendiary posts online, often made on far-right groups and platforms. However, the report, prepared by one non-partisan research organisation for US law enforcement agencies, did not mention about any specific threats to the judges. Also read: Colorado Supreme Court judges receiving online hate after ruling against Donald Trump: Report Earlier, a report by Advance Democracy, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organisation that conducts public interest research, claimed to have found "significant violent rhetoric" against the justices and Democrats on the Trump-owned social media platform Truth Social. They found that some social media users posted justices' email addresses, phone numbers and office building addresses, reports NBC News. What was the controversial ruling? The four judges ruled last week, in a 4-3 judgment, that Trump is not qualified to run for the presidency in the 2024 presidential elections because of the 14th Amendment’s “insurrectionist ban” and therefore can’t appear on the state’s ballot when voters gather for the GOP primary scheduled there for March 5. (With inputs from agencies)

FBI investigating reports of violent threats to Colorado judges who ruled against Trump

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