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The iconic Mickey & Minnie Mouse is all set to enter public domain on the 1st of January. The silent version of the film Steamboat Willie, which released in 1928 and directed by Disney will enter into public domain on January 1.

Mickey & Minnie Mouse enters public domain, will no longer be owned by Disney

Asset managers are turning bullish on the Japanese's yen, marking the first optimistic turn since may. This change in sentiment comes as the U.S. Federal reserve and the bank of Japan are anticipated to reverse their monetary policy paths, narrowing the gap between the two. Hedge funds are also showing less pessimism towards the yen, and Morgan Stanley predicts record Japan revenue in the coming year due to the central bank's supportive policies.

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2023 saw the rise of Xi Jinping, Xi solidifies his position. Watch the video to know more.

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Hamas and its allied Islamic Jihad have refused to accept the Egyptian proposal to renounce power in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, news agency Reuters quoted two Egyptian security sources as saying on Monday.

Reportedly both the groups rejected delivering any other settlements beyond the potential release of more hostages seized on Oct 7 when militants broke into southern Israel, claiming the lives of 1,200 people.

Earlier, Egypt had proposed a plan, which is dubbed as "vision", that would involve a ceasefire in exchange for the release of more hostages further leading to a broader agreement involving a permanent ceasefire along with an overhaul of leadership in Gaza, which is at present led by Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The proposal was also backed by Qatari mediators.

As per Reuters, a Hamas official recently visited Cairo and declined to directly comment on specific offers of more temporary humanitarian truces and indicated the group's rejection by reiterating its official stance on the matter.

"Hamas seeks to end the Israeli aggression against our people, the massacres and genocide, and we discussed with our Egyptian brothers the ways to do that," the official told Reuters.

"We also said that the aid for our people must keep going and must increase and it must reach all the population in the north and the south," the official added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yahya-sinwar-releases-first-public-message-since-oct-7-says-hamas-facing-unprecedented-battle-673519">Yahya Sinwar releases first public message since Oct 7, says Hamas facing ‘unprecedented battle’</a>

"After the aggression is stopped and the aid increased we are ready to discuss prisoner swaps," he further said.&nbsp;

<h2>Egypt-led efforts to bring peace in Gaza&nbsp;</h2>

Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh returned to Qatar on Saturday (Dec 23) after a four-day visit to Cairo to discuss the Egyptian proposal with the Hamas political bureau. On Sunday, a delegation of the Islamic Jihad arrived in Cairo for talks with Egyptian officials.

The Israel-Hamas war entered Day 79 on Christmas Eve of 2023. The war which began on October 7 when the Palestinian armed groups attacked southern Israel and killed about 1,200 Israelis, has resulted in an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip as Israel's retaliatory attacks have killed over 20,000 Palestinians so far.

(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.

Hamas and its allied Islamic Jihad have refused to accept the Egyptian proposal to renounce power in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, news agency Reuters quoted two Egyptian security sources as saying on Monday.

Hamas and its allied Islamic Jihad have refused to accept the Egyptian proposal to renounce power in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, news agency Reuters quoted two Egyptian security sources as saying on Monday. Reportedly both the groups rejected delivering any other settlements beyond the potential release of more hostages seized on Oct 7 when militants broke into southern Israel, claiming the lives of 1,200 people. Earlier, Egypt had proposed a plan, which is dubbed as "vision", that would involve a ceasefire in exchange for the release of more hostages further leading to a broader agreement involving a permanent ceasefire along with an overhaul of leadership in Gaza, which is at present led by Palestinian militant group Hamas. The proposal was also backed by Qatari mediators. As per Reuters, a Hamas official recently visited Cairo and declined to directly comment on specific offers of more temporary humanitarian truces and indicated the group's rejection by reiterating its official stance on the matter. "Hamas seeks to end the Israeli aggression against our people, the massacres and genocide, and we discussed with our Egyptian brothers the ways to do that," the official told Reuters. "We also said that the aid for our people must keep going and must increase and it must reach all the population in the north and the south," the official added. Also read: Yahya Sinwar releases first public message since Oct 7, says Hamas facing ‘unprecedented battle’ "After the aggression is stopped and the aid increased we are ready to discuss prisoner swaps," he further said. Egypt-led efforts to bring peace in Gaza Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh returned to Qatar on Saturday (Dec 23) after a four-day visit to Cairo to discuss the Egyptian proposal with the Hamas political bureau. On Sunday, a delegation of the Islamic Jihad arrived in Cairo for talks with Egyptian officials. The Israel-Hamas war entered Day 79 on Christmas Eve of 2023. The war which began on October 7 when the Palestinian armed groups attacked southern Israel and killed about 1,200 Israelis, has resulted in an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip as Israel's retaliatory attacks have killed over 20,000 Palestinians so far. (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.

Hamas, Islamic Jihad reject renouncing power in exchange for permanent ceasefire: Report

The US targeted three sites used by Iran-backed forces in Iraq and this happened on Monday after an attack wounded three US personnel. Washington has reportedly hit the sites used by Iran and its proxy forces in Iraq and Syria in response to attacks on the US.

Iraq: Drone targets US troops in Iraq, former retaliates after three troops hurt | World News | WION

The death toll in weekend attacks in the central Nigerian state of Plateau has risen to 113, a local official said on Monday, in a region where clashes between herders and farmers are common.

It is the worst outbreak of violence in Plateau since May when more than 100 people were killed in farmer-herder attacks.

AFP News Agency had cited the Nigerian army on Sunday as saying 16 people were killed in the latest attacks.

The acting chairman of Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, Monday Kassah, said 113 people had been killed in the attacks on Saturday and Sunday.

"The attacks were well-coordinated. Not fewer than 20 different communities were attacked by the bandits," he said.

"We have recovered 113 dead bodies from those communities. We have recovered more than 300 injured."

Kassah did not say who was responsible for the attacks. He added that the injured had been taken to hospital.

Plateau police spokesperson could not be reached for comment.

Plateau is one of several ethnically and religiously diverse hinterland states known as Nigeria's Middle Belt, where inter-communal conflict has claimed hundreds of lives in recent years.

The violence is often painted as ethno-religious conflict between Muslim herders and mainly Christian farmers. But climate change and expanding agriculture are also major factors.

The death toll in weekend attacks in the central Nigerian state of Plateau has risen to 113, a local official said on Monday, in a region where clashes between herders and farmers are common.

The death toll in weekend attacks in the central Nigerian state of Plateau has risen to 113, a local official said on Monday, in a region where clashes between herders and farmers are common. It is the worst outbreak of violence in Plateau since May when more than 100 people were killed in farmer-herder attacks. AFP News Agency had cited the Nigerian army on Sunday as saying 16 people were killed in the latest attacks. The acting chairman of Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, Monday Kassah, said 113 people had been killed in the attacks on Saturday and Sunday. "The attacks were well-coordinated. Not fewer than 20 different communities were attacked by the bandits," he said. "We have recovered 113 dead bodies from those communities. We have recovered more than 300 injured." Kassah did not say who was responsible for the attacks. He added that the injured had been taken to hospital. Plateau police spokesperson could not be reached for comment. Plateau is one of several ethnically and religiously diverse hinterland states known as Nigeria's Middle Belt, where inter-communal conflict has claimed hundreds of lives in recent years. The violence is often painted as ethno-religious conflict between Muslim herders and mainly Christian farmers. But climate change and expanding agriculture are also major factors.

At least 113 killed in attacks in central Nigeria, says local official

Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar, in his first public message since the Oct 7 assault, said that the militant group was facing a “fierce, violent and unprecedented battle” against Israel, as per the Times of Israel reports.

However, Sinwar also claimed that the Palestinian militant group was on its way to crushing the Israel Defense Forces and that Hamas would not submit to “the occupation’s conditions.”

According to the Times Of Israel, Sinwar falsely claimed that the al-Qassam Brigades, which is the military wing of Hamas,&nbsp;killed over a thousand Israeli soldiers.

Hamas on Sunday (Dec 24) released footage which it said showed the group's military wing, Al-Qassam Brigade, fighting with the Israeli military in the northern Gaza Strip.

As per news agency Reuters, the footage appears to show the Palestinian group's militants using rocket-propelled grenades to engage in gunfire amongst the rubble of destroyed buildings.

Also read:&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>

<h2>Israeli strikes on Gaza kills 200 in 24 hours, claims Hamas</h2>

Meanwhile, Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank.

Israel continued with its counter-offensive aiming at the southern Gaza Strip, with clouds of grey and black smoke rising over Khan Yunis city, as per news agency AFP reports.

In the past 24 hours, at least 201 deaths were reported by the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, taking the toll to 20,258 since the war broke out, and most of the victims were women and children as per claims by Hamas.

The fighting between the two sides began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,140 Israelis, mostly civilians.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar, in his first public message since the Oct 7 assault, said that the militant group was facing a “fierce, violent and unprecedented battle” against Israel, as per the Times of Israel reports.

Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar, in his first public message since the Oct 7 assault, said that the militant group was facing a “fierce, violent and unprecedented battle” against Israel, as per the Times of Israel reports. However, Sinwar also claimed that the Palestinian militant group was on its way to crushing the Israel Defense Forces and that Hamas would not submit to “the occupation’s conditions.” According to the Times Of Israel, Sinwar falsely claimed that the al-Qassam Brigades, which is the military wing of Hamas, killed over a thousand Israeli soldiers. Hamas on Sunday (Dec 24) released footage which it said showed the group's military wing, Al-Qassam Brigade, fighting with the Israeli military in the northern Gaza Strip. As per news agency Reuters, the footage appears to show the Palestinian group's militants using rocket-propelled grenades to engage in gunfire amongst the rubble of destroyed buildings. Also read: Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says visited Gaza, vows to 'intensify' fighting Israeli strikes on Gaza kills 200 in 24 hours, claims Hamas Meanwhile, Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank. Israel continued with its counter-offensive aiming at the southern Gaza Strip, with clouds of grey and black smoke rising over Khan Yunis city, as per news agency AFP reports. In the past 24 hours, at least 201 deaths were reported by the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, taking the toll to 20,258 since the war broke out, and most of the victims were women and children as per claims by Hamas. The fighting between the two sides began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,140 Israelis, mostly civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

Yahya Sinwar releases first public message since Oct 7, says Hamas facing ‘unprecedented battle’

China's tightly managed currency regime, aimed at defending a weak yuan, is inadvertently causing disruptions for businesses. The gap between the artificially high fixed yuan rates and the actual market rates is leading to losses, prompting some chinese firms, including whirlpool china, to consider abandoning the long-standing fixed rate practice in favour of the more reflective spot rate for accounting.

Chinese firms to abandon long-standing fixed rate practice

The worldwide celebration of Jesus Christ's birth takes place with great enthusiasm and splendour on December 25. The holiday festivities commence on Christmas Eve and conclude after New Year. The day between Christmas and New Year's Eve is marked as Boxing Day. Observed on the day following Christmas, Boxing Day, contrary to its name, has no association with the sport. Initially established as a day to bestow gifts upon the less fortunate, it has evolved into a widely recognised 'shopping holiday.'

<h3>History&nbsp;</h3>

Boxing Day is specifically observed in the United Kingdom and various other regions globally, including Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. However, it is not widely recognised in the United States. The term originates from an era when affluent individuals boxed up gifts to give to those who are poor.&nbsp;

In historical times, it was customary for the servants of wealthy individuals to work on Christmas, catering to guests and celebrations. In appreciation for their dedicated service, employers would assemble gift boxes for the servants to take home on the day following Christmas as a token of gratitude. This practice is the origin of the term Boxing Day.

<h3>Significance&nbsp;</h3>

Boxing Day holds historical significance rooted in the tradition of giving back to those in need. This day is to glorify the fact that sharing is caring. The practice symbolised a form of charity and generosity during the Christmas season.

Over time, Boxing Day has evolved into a public holiday observed in various countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and others. It is often associated with shopping, sports events, and charitable activities. In some cultures, it continues to be a day dedicated to acts of kindness, giving to the less fortunate, and spending time with family and friends. While the historical context may have shifted, Boxing Day remains a day of diverse celebrations and a continuation of the spirit of generosity. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The worldwide celebration of Jesus Christ's birth takes place with great enthusiasm and splendour on December 25. The holiday festivities commence on Christmas Eve and conclude after New Year.

The worldwide celebration of Jesus Christ's birth takes place with great enthusiasm and splendour on December 25. The holiday festivities commence on Christmas Eve and conclude after New Year. The day between Christmas and New Year's Eve is marked as Boxing Day. Observed on the day following Christmas, Boxing Day, contrary to its name, has no association with the sport. Initially established as a day to bestow gifts upon the less fortunate, it has evolved into a widely recognised 'shopping holiday.' History Boxing Day is specifically observed in the United Kingdom and various other regions globally, including Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. However, it is not widely recognised in the United States. The term originates from an era when affluent individuals boxed up gifts to give to those who are poor. In historical times, it was customary for the servants of wealthy individuals to work on Christmas, catering to guests and celebrations. In appreciation for their dedicated service, employers would assemble gift boxes for the servants to take home on the day following Christmas as a token of gratitude. This practice is the origin of the term Boxing Day. Significance Boxing Day holds historical significance rooted in the tradition of giving back to those in need. This day is to glorify the fact that sharing is caring. The practice symbolised a form of charity and generosity during the Christmas season. Over time, Boxing Day has evolved into a public holiday observed in various countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and others. It is often associated with shopping, sports events, and charitable activities. In some cultures, it continues to be a day dedicated to acts of kindness, giving to the less fortunate, and spending time with family and friends. While the historical context may have shifted, Boxing Day remains a day of diverse celebrations and a continuation of the spirit of generosity. (With inputs from agencies)

Boxing Day 2023: Why the day was formed, History, and its significance

China has approved 105 domestic games, signalling a softened stance on gaming. This move follows last week's $80 billion market rout triggered by beijing's decision to tighten gaming industry controls. Tencent and netease, china's top gaming companies, received approvals, indicating government support for online gaming growth. Despite the approvals, investor concerns persist, reflecting lingering fears of potential digital crackdowns.

Beijing's change in stance on gaming after $80 billion rout

Pope Francis, during his Christmas Day blessings called for peace in the world and lashed out at the weapons industry and the "instruments of death" that fuel war. During his Christmas address, he particularly mentioned Ukraine war as well as Israel-Hamas war and prayed for peace. Pope was speaking from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica to scores of people who had gathered below.&nbsp;

The Pope said he grieved the “abominable attack” carried out by Hamas in southern Israel on October 7 and made an appeal for release of hostages. He begged for an end to Irsael's military campaign in the Gaza Strip and the “appalling harvest of innocent civilians”. He said that humanitarian aid should reach all those who are in need.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Egypt outlines proposal to free hostages &amp; end Israel-Hamas war

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During his address, Pope Francis said that the story of Jesus Christ's birth in Bethlehem was one of peace. But he added that today, Bethlehem "is a place of sorrow and silence”, referring to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Pope's annual 'Urbi et Orbi' ("To the City and the World") speech typically has laments about misery facing the world. The speech made on Monday was no exception. the Pope appealed for humanitarian initiatives from Armenia and Azerbaijan to Syria and Yemen, Ukraine to South Sudan and Congo and the Korean peninsula.

<h2>Aim at the weapons industry</h2>

Pope Francis lashed out at the weapons industry saying that the industry was helping fuel conflicts around the world.

“It should be talked about and written about, so as to bring to light the interests and the profits that move the puppet strings of war,” he said. “And how can we even speak of peace, when arms production, sales and trade are on the rise?”

Also Read | <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>

Pope Francis has frequently blasted the arms industry, calling it “merchants of death”. He has even said that wars like the one being waged in Ukraine are used to test new weapons and use up old stockpiles.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-six-killed-after-attacks-on-kherson-horlivka-moscow-will-be-defeated-says-zelensky-673397">Russia-Ukraine war: Six killed after attacks on Kherson, Horlivka; Moscow ‘will be defeated’, says Zelensky</a>

On the Israel-Hamas war, he called for peace. He said that the conflict should be resolved “through sincere and persevering dialogue between the parties, sustained by strong political will and the support of the international community.”

According to the Vatican officials, about 70,000 people filled St. Peter's Square for Pope Francis' speech and blessing. There were people flying Palestinian and Ukrainian flags.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis, during his Christmas Day blessings called for peace in the world and lashed out at the weapons industry and the "instruments of death" that fuel war.

Pope Francis, during his Christmas Day blessings called for peace in the world and lashed out at the weapons industry and the "instruments of death" that fuel war. During his Christmas address, he particularly mentioned Ukraine war as well as Israel-Hamas war and prayed for peace. Pope was speaking from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica to scores of people who had gathered below. The Pope said he grieved the “abominable attack” carried out by Hamas in southern Israel on October 7 and made an appeal for release of hostages. He begged for an end to Irsael's military campaign in the Gaza Strip and the “appalling harvest of innocent civilians”. He said that humanitarian aid should reach all those who are in need. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Egypt outlines proposal to free hostages & end Israel-Hamas war × During his address, Pope Francis said that the story of Jesus Christ's birth in Bethlehem was one of peace. But he added that today, Bethlehem "is a place of sorrow and silence”, referring to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Pope's annual 'Urbi et Orbi' ("To the City and the World") speech typically has laments about misery facing the world. The speech made on Monday was no exception. the Pope appealed for humanitarian initiatives from Armenia and Azerbaijan to Syria and Yemen, Ukraine to South Sudan and Congo and the Korean peninsula. Aim at the weapons industry Pope Francis lashed out at the weapons industry saying that the industry was helping fuel conflicts around the world. “It should be talked about and written about, so as to bring to light the interests and the profits that move the puppet strings of war,” he said. “And how can we even speak of peace, when arms production, sales and trade are on the rise?” Also Read | Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says visited Gaza, vows to 'intensify' fighting Pope Francis has frequently blasted the arms industry, calling it “merchants of death”. He has even said that wars like the one being waged in Ukraine are used to test new weapons and use up old stockpiles. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Six killed after attacks on Kherson, Horlivka; Moscow ‘will be defeated’, says Zelensky On the Israel-Hamas war, he called for peace. He said that the conflict should be resolved “through sincere and persevering dialogue between the parties, sustained by strong political will and the support of the international community.” According to the Vatican officials, about 70,000 people filled St. Peter's Square for Pope Francis' speech and blessing. There were people flying Palestinian and Ukrainian flags. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis calls for global peace in Christmas Day address

The Palestinian telecommunications company Paltel said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that internet and telephone services were cut again across the war-torn Gaza Strip. The company announced the fourth such breakdown since the war began on October 7. &nbsp;

The company said: "We regret to announce a complete breakdown of fixed telecommunications and internet services in the Gaza Strip due to the ongoing offensive."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israel's army chief Herzi Halevi said on Tuesday that the war with Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip will last "for many more months".&nbsp;

At a televised press conference, Halevi said that the war "will continue for many more months, and we will work with different methods so that our achievements are preserved for a long time".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-mulling-over-increasing-defence-spending-by-us8-billion-in-2024-673740">Israel mulling over increasing defence spending by US$8 billion in 2024</a>&nbsp;

Israel has pounded the Gaza Strip since the war broke out on October 7. The United Nations has raised concerns and said it was "gravely concerned" by Israel's continued bombardment of the central Gaza Strip. The UN also urged Israeli forces to take all available measures to protect civilians.&nbsp;

The UN Human Rights Office said all attacks had to adhere to international humanitarian law.&nbsp;

"We are gravely concerned about the continued bombardment of Middle Gaza by Israeli forces," rights office spokesman Seif Magango said in a statement.&nbsp;

"It is particularly concerning that this latest intense bombardment comes after Israeli forces ordered residents from the south of Wadi Gaza to move to Middle Gaza and Tal al-Sultan in Rafah."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-comes-out-with-peace-proposal-plant-to-end-israel-hamas-war-report-673593">Egypt comes out with peace plan to end war, as Israel's Netanyahu hell-bent on destroying Hamas</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;PM Netanyahu heckled inside parliament by families of hostages

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<h2>Death toll rises&nbsp;</h2>

The health ministry in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip claimed on Tuesday that at least 20,915 people have been killed in the Palestinian territory so far. The ministry said another 54,918 people have been wounded in more than 11 weeks of fighting.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israel's military said on Tuesday that an anti-tank missile fired by the Lebanese Hezbollah group wounded nine soldiers. The military said that they rescued a civilian who was injured in another cross-border strike.&nbsp;

One of the soldiers was in "serious condition", the army said, after the group was hit when rescuing the civilian injured by an anti-tank missile fired from Lebanon amid the Gaza war.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Palestinian telecommunications company Paltel said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that internet and telephone services were cut again across the war-torn Gaza Strip. The company announced the fourth such breakdown since the war began on October 7.

The Palestinian telecommunications company Paltel said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that internet and telephone services were cut again across the war-torn Gaza Strip. The company announced the fourth such breakdown since the war began on October 7. The company said: "We regret to announce a complete breakdown of fixed telecommunications and internet services in the Gaza Strip due to the ongoing offensive." Meanwhile, Israel's army chief Herzi Halevi said on Tuesday that the war with Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip will last "for many more months". At a televised press conference, Halevi said that the war "will continue for many more months, and we will work with different methods so that our achievements are preserved for a long time". Also read: Israel mulling over increasing defence spending by US$8 billion in 2024 Israel has pounded the Gaza Strip since the war broke out on October 7. The United Nations has raised concerns and said it was "gravely concerned" by Israel's continued bombardment of the central Gaza Strip. The UN also urged Israeli forces to take all available measures to protect civilians. The UN Human Rights Office said all attacks had to adhere to international humanitarian law. "We are gravely concerned about the continued bombardment of Middle Gaza by Israeli forces," rights office spokesman Seif Magango said in a statement. "It is particularly concerning that this latest intense bombardment comes after Israeli forces ordered residents from the south of Wadi Gaza to move to Middle Gaza and Tal al-Sultan in Rafah." Also read: Egypt comes out with peace plan to end war, as Israel's Netanyahu hell-bent on destroying Hamas Watch: PM Netanyahu heckled inside parliament by families of hostages × Death toll rises The health ministry in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip claimed on Tuesday that at least 20,915 people have been killed in the Palestinian territory so far. The ministry said another 54,918 people have been wounded in more than 11 weeks of fighting. Meanwhile, Israel's military said on Tuesday that an anti-tank missile fired by the Lebanese Hezbollah group wounded nine soldiers. The military said that they rescued a civilian who was injured in another cross-border strike. One of the soldiers was in "serious condition", the army said, after the group was hit when rescuing the civilian injured by an anti-tank missile fired from Lebanon amid the Gaza war. 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)

Internet, phone services again disrupted across Gaza, Israel says war will last ‘for many more months’

South Korea has imposed record fines totaling $20.3 million on two global investment banks and a local unit for engaging in illicit trading practices, specifically naked short-selling. This speculative practice involves selling shares without obtaining a loan or ensuring the availability of borrowed shares, with the aim of profiting from an anticipated drop in the asset's price.

South Korea hits banks with record fines for short-selling

The airplane with around 300 Indian passengers on board detained near Paris over suspicions of human trafficking landed in Mumbai, India, on Tuesday&nbsp; (Dec 26) at 4 am.

"The plane, which had been grounded since Thursday, departed shortly after 14:30 pm (local time),” BFM TV, a French news broadcast television and radio network, reported.

However, of the 303 Indian passengers, only 276 have likely returned, while the rest have applied for asylum and have been transferred to a special zone in Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport for asylum-seekers.

The flight that took off from Dubai, UAE, carrying 303 passengers, and was headed to Nicaragua, was grounded at the Vatry airport, 150 km east of Paris, on Thursday (Dec 21).

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Maharashtra | Plane with Indian passengers that was grounded in France for four days over suspected human trafficking arrived in Mumbai, earlier today 
 
(Outside visuals from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport) <a href="https://t.co/OIMPO0c4Hx">pic.twitter.com/OIMPO0c4Hx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1739475150398173305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The French authorities on Sunday gave a go-ahead to the Airbus A340 to resume its journey after questioning the passengers for two days.

The local prefecture, on Monday, confirmed that the plane would indeed take off "but not before noon".

As per the Marne prefecture, the plane had 276 passengers on board. Out of those 25, including two minors, applied for asylum and were still on French soil.

Two others were brought before a judge on Monday and were released and placed on assisted witness status, news agency PTI reported citing BFM TV reports.

Earlier, the airplane was scheduled to depart around 10 in the morning.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-issues-2nd-statement-on-mv-chem-pluto-vessel-incident-says-debris-points-to-drone-attack-673467">Chem Pluto: Indian Navy says debris points to drone attack, probe underway</a>

However, because some people expressed their wish to stay on French soil and did not want to go back to their country of origin, the departure was delayed, according to local media reports.

Earlier, the Indian Embassy in France took to their official X handle and said that they were working with embassy officials in order to ensure the safe and smooth return of the passengers.

"Thank French Gov and Vatry Airport for the quick resolution of the situation enabling Indian passengers to return home &amp; hospitality. Also for working closely with the embassy team, present throughout the site to ensure the welfare and smooth &amp; safe return. Thank agencies in India, too," the Indian Embassy in France said in a post on X.

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Thank French Gov and Vatry Airport for quick resolution of the situation enabling Indian passengers to return home &amp; hospitality. 
 
Also for working closely with embassy team, present throughout at the site to ensure welfare and smooth &amp; safe return. 
Thank agencies in India, too.
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Airline's lawyer, Liliana Bakayoko, while talking to BFMTV said that earlier the situation was very confusing as some passengers had refused to return to their country of origin.

"Some of the passengers would be unhappy with this return because they wanted to continue their journey to Nicaragua as planned,” the French news broadcast television and radio network reported.

"We are very relieved. We were impatiently waiting for this,” the lawyer for the airline was quoted as saying by the channel.

The lawyer added that the company will continue to be "available to investigators", and "will seek damages from its client because it has suffered significant harm".

(With inputs from agencies)

The airplane with around 300 Indian passengers on board detained near Paris over suspicions of human trafficking landed in Mumbai, India, on Tuesday (Dec 26) at 4 am.

The airplane with around 300 Indian passengers on board detained near Paris over suspicions of human trafficking landed in Mumbai, India, on Tuesday (Dec 26) at 4 am. "The plane, which had been grounded since Thursday, departed shortly after 14:30 pm (local time),” BFM TV, a French news broadcast television and radio network, reported. However, of the 303 Indian passengers, only 276 have likely returned, while the rest have applied for asylum and have been transferred to a special zone in Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport for asylum-seekers. The flight that took off from Dubai, UAE, carrying 303 passengers, and was headed to Nicaragua, was grounded at the Vatry airport, 150 km east of Paris, on Thursday (Dec 21). #WATCH | Maharashtra | Plane with Indian passengers that was grounded in France for four days over suspected human trafficking arrived in Mumbai, earlier today (Outside visuals from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport) pic.twitter.com/OIMPO0c4Hx — ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2023 × The French authorities on Sunday gave a go-ahead to the Airbus A340 to resume its journey after questioning the passengers for two days. The local prefecture, on Monday, confirmed that the plane would indeed take off "but not before noon". As per the Marne prefecture, the plane had 276 passengers on board. Out of those 25, including two minors, applied for asylum and were still on French soil. Two others were brought before a judge on Monday and were released and placed on assisted witness status, news agency PTI reported citing BFM TV reports. Earlier, the airplane was scheduled to depart around 10 in the morning. Also read: Chem Pluto: Indian Navy says debris points to drone attack, probe underway However, because some people expressed their wish to stay on French soil and did not want to go back to their country of origin, the departure was delayed, according to local media reports. Earlier, the Indian Embassy in France took to their official X handle and said that they were working with embassy officials in order to ensure the safe and smooth return of the passengers. "Thank French Gov and Vatry Airport for the quick resolution of the situation enabling Indian passengers to return home & hospitality. Also for working closely with the embassy team, present throughout the site to ensure the welfare and smooth & safe return. Thank agencies in India, too," the Indian Embassy in France said in a post on X. Thank French Gov and Vatry Airport for quick resolution of the situation enabling Indian passengers to return home & hospitality. Also for working closely with embassy team, present throughout at the site to ensure welfare and smooth & safe return. Thank agencies in India, too. — India in France (@IndiaembFrance) December 25, 2023 × Airline's lawyer, Liliana Bakayoko, while talking to BFMTV said that earlier the situation was very confusing as some passengers had refused to return to their country of origin. "Some of the passengers would be unhappy with this return because they wanted to continue their journey to Nicaragua as planned,” the French news broadcast television and radio network reported. "We are very relieved. We were impatiently waiting for this,” the lawyer for the airline was quoted as saying by the channel. The lawyer added that the company will continue to be "available to investigators", and "will seek damages from its client because it has suffered significant harm". (With inputs from agencies)

Plane with Indians grounded in France lands in Mumbai, only 276 passengers return

The Israel-Hamas war has impacted the daily lives of those living in the war-torn regions. According to reports by the World Food Programme, In Gaza 1 in 4 face extreme hunger. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to keep up the fight against Hamas militants on Monday while Palestinians mourned more than 100 people who Gaza health officials said were killed overnight in Israeli airstrikes.

Israel-Hamas War: Gaza faces severe food shortages amid conflict

Russia on Monday (Dec 25) claimed to have fully controlled the town of Marinka in eastern Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin hailed it as a "success" that would mean less shelling on the nearby Russian-held city of Donetsk.&nbsp;

In a meeting shown on state television, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told Putin that "our [Russia's] assault units have today completely liberated the settlement of Maryinka".&nbsp;

Maryinka, which was once home to 10,000 people, is located southwest of Donetsk and most accounts have described it as a ghost town, but Moscow sees it as Russia's most significant gain since the capture of Bakhmut in May.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fire-breaks-out-on-russian-nuclear-powered-ship-673422">Fire breaks out on Russian nuclear-powered ship</a>&nbsp;

The Russian leader said that control of the town would allow the Russian forces to move enemy combat units away from Donetsk.&nbsp;

In a video of the exchange between him and Shoigu posted online by a Kremlin journalist, Putin said: "Our troops (now) have the opportunity to reach a wider operational area."&nbsp;

The control over Maryinka would allow Russian soldiers to "move further in this direction" and "make it possible to protect Donetsk more effectively from strikes" from Ukrainian forces, Shoigu said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-moved-to-prison-in-the-arctic-673412">Jailed Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny moved to Arctic penal colony</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: 71 shells fired at Kherson over 24 hours&nbsp;

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<h2>Ukraine's counter-offensive&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier, the Russian army's victory in Bakhmut was a major success, which came after some of the bloodiest fighting. After that, Ukraine launched a counteroffensive in June aimed at retaking land in the country's south and east, including Bakhmut. However, the nation didn't achieve any notable success.&nbsp;

In recent weeks, Russian forces have increased pressure, especially on the nearby town of Avdiivka since mid-October.&nbsp;

Russia had briefly captured Avdiivka in 2014 by Russian-backed separatists. They had seized large chunks of eastern Ukraine. Fortifications were later built around the town.&nbsp;

Ukrainian General Staff said in its dispatch early on Monday: "Ukrainian defence forces continued to hold back the enemy in the areas of Maryinka and Novomykhailivka in the Donetsk region, repelling five Russian attacks."&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Monday (Dec 25) claimed to have fully controlled the town of Marinka in eastern Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin hailed it as a "success" that would mean less shelling on the nearby Russian-held city of Donetsk.

Russia on Monday (Dec 25) claimed to have fully controlled the town of Marinka in eastern Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin hailed it as a "success" that would mean less shelling on the nearby Russian-held city of Donetsk. In a meeting shown on state television, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told Putin that "our [Russia's] assault units have today completely liberated the settlement of Maryinka". Maryinka, which was once home to 10,000 people, is located southwest of Donetsk and most accounts have described it as a ghost town, but Moscow sees it as Russia's most significant gain since the capture of Bakhmut in May. Also read: Fire breaks out on Russian nuclear-powered ship The Russian leader said that control of the town would allow the Russian forces to move enemy combat units away from Donetsk. In a video of the exchange between him and Shoigu posted online by a Kremlin journalist, Putin said: "Our troops (now) have the opportunity to reach a wider operational area." The control over Maryinka would allow Russian soldiers to "move further in this direction" and "make it possible to protect Donetsk more effectively from strikes" from Ukrainian forces, Shoigu said. Also read: Jailed Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny moved to Arctic penal colony Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: 71 shells fired at Kherson over 24 hours × Ukraine's counter-offensive Earlier, the Russian army's victory in Bakhmut was a major success, which came after some of the bloodiest fighting. After that, Ukraine launched a counteroffensive in June aimed at retaking land in the country's south and east, including Bakhmut. However, the nation didn't achieve any notable success. In recent weeks, Russian forces have increased pressure, especially on the nearby town of Avdiivka since mid-October. Russia had briefly captured Avdiivka in 2014 by Russian-backed separatists. They had seized large chunks of eastern Ukraine. Fortifications were later built around the town. Ukrainian General Staff said in its dispatch early on Monday: "Ukrainian defence forces continued to hold back the enemy in the areas of Maryinka and Novomykhailivka in the Donetsk region, repelling five Russian attacks." 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)

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow claims to have seized town in eastern Ukraine

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.

Plane stranded in France with Indians returns, 276 passengers are back in India

King Charles III on Monday (Dec 25) delivered his second Christmas message, focusing on environmentalism and peace. King Charles speech focused on 'shared values' amid global conflicts. Watch to know more!

UK: King Charles' first Christmas speech since coronation

In the latest, security agencies quickly responded after being notified of a potential explosion behind the Israeli Embassy situated in the Chanakyapuri district of Delhi, which is the diplomatic hub of the capital city. Additionally, RBI, HDFC, and ICICI banks in Mumbai received email bomb blast threats, demanding an urgent resignation from the Indian finance minister. In other news, Russia has acknowledged that its warship was attacked by Ukraine.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bomb-blast-scare-near-israel-embassy-security-agencies-on-toes-673762">India: Bomb blast scare near Israel Embassy, security agencies on toes</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/26/401792-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=3840" />

Security agencies were on their toes after receiving an alert about an alleged blast behind the Israeli Embassy located in the Chanakyapuri area of Delhi, the diplomatic neighbourhood of the capital.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-conducted-air-strike-on-crimea-destroying-russian-warship-673600">Russia acknowledges damage to warship in Black Sea by Ukraine</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/26/401780-the-battle-for-kyiv-2023-12-26t193626569.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Russia has officially acknowledged the damage inflicted on one of its warships during a Ukrainian airstrike on a Black Sea port.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-mulling-over-increasing-defence-spending-by-us8-billion-in-2024-673740">Israel mulling over increasing defence spending by US$8 billion in 2024</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/26/401763-israel-hamas-war-16.png?imwidth=3840" />

Israel's finance ministry is apparently planning to increase defence spending by at least 30 billion shekels ($8.3 billion) next year amid the ongoing war against Hamas, Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plane-held-in-france-with-303-indian-passengers-onboard-departs-for-mumbai-673434">Plane with Indians grounded in France lands in Mumbai, only 276 passengers return</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/26/401671-plane-3.png?imwidth=3840" />

The airplane with around 300 Indian passengers on board detained near Paris over suspicions of human trafficking landed in Mumbai, India, on Tuesday&nbsp;(Dec 26) at 4 am.

"The plane, which had been grounded since Thursday, departed shortly after 14:30 pm (local time),” BFM TV, a French news broadcast television and radio network, reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/relief-for-imran-khans-party-peshawar-high-court-restores-ptis-bat-election-symbol-673753">Relief for Imran Khan's party: Peshawar High Court restores PTI's 'bat' election symbol</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400197-khan-2.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) will be breathing easy after the Peshawar High Court on Tuesday (Dec 26) suspended the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) declaration of the PTI’s intra-party polls as unconstitutional whilst calling for revocation of the party's 'bat' election symbol.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/prime-minister-narendra-modi-youtube-channel-crosses-20-million-subscribers-highest-among-global-leaders-673696">Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s YouTube channel crosses 20 million subscribers; highest among global leaders</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/12/398707-untitled-design-2023-12-12t125042765.png?imwidth=3840" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the first world leader whose&nbsp;YouTube channel has crossed the 20 million (two&nbsp;crore) subscribers mark. Regarding views and subscribers, PM Modi has far surpassed the YouTube channels of his Indian and global contemporaries.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-users-more-likely-to-subscribe-to-pro-china-views-research-673687">TikTok users more likely to subscribe to pro-China views: Research</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/11/337959-untitled-design-2023-03-10t233204078.png?imwidth=3840" />

A new research published by Taiwan's Information Environment Research Centre (IORG) has revealed that people using the short-video app Douyin, the Chinese-language version of TikTok are more likely to subscribe to views in favour of the communist Chinese government.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-email-bomb-threat-sent-to-rbi-hdfc-icici-banks-in-mumbai-authorities-investigate-673769">India: Email bomb threat sent to RBI, HDFC, ICICI banks in Mumbai, authorities investigate</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/26/401786-the-battle-for-kyiv-2023-12-26t195435377.png?imwidth=3840" />

The Mumbai Police said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other banks, including the HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank in the city, received a bomb threat. In an email, the sender said bombs were planted at 11 different locations across Mumbai.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-vows-to-find-out-who-is-behind-drone-attack-off-its-coast-673706">India vows to find out culprit behind drone attack on merchant ships off its coast, take strict action</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/26/401741-rajnath-singh.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

India vowed on Tuesday (Dec 26) to find out who was behind the drone attack on merchant navy ships of its coast even if it makes it search "depths of seas". Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that the government has taken the drone attack very seriously. He was speaking in Mumbai during the commission ceremony of an Indian Navy warship.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/turkey-luxury-cars-seized-from-criminal-gangs-turned-into-traffic-police-vehicles-673743">Turkey: Luxury cars seized from criminal gangs turned into traffic police vehicles</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/26/401768-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=3840" />

The Turkish police is making the best use of resources it has confiscated from crime organisations. According to the country's interior ministry, as many as 23 luxury cars seized by Istanbul police have been converted to traffic police vehicles to maintain the law and order situation.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the latest, security agencies quickly responded after being notified of a potential explosion behind the Israeli Embassy situated in the Chanakyapuri district of Delhi, which is the diplomatic hub of the capital city.

In the latest, security agencies quickly responded after being notified of a potential explosion behind the Israeli Embassy situated in the Chanakyapuri district of Delhi, which is the diplomatic hub of the capital city. Additionally, RBI, HDFC, and ICICI banks in Mumbai received email bomb blast threats, demanding an urgent resignation from the Indian finance minister. In other news, Russia has acknowledged that its warship was attacked by Ukraine. Click on the headlines to read more. India: Bomb blast scare near Israel Embassy, security agencies on toes Security agencies were on their toes after receiving an alert about an alleged blast behind the Israeli Embassy located in the Chanakyapuri area of Delhi, the diplomatic neighbourhood of the capital. Russia acknowledges damage to warship in Black Sea by Ukraine Russia has officially acknowledged the damage inflicted on one of its warships during a Ukrainian airstrike on a Black Sea port. Israel mulling over increasing defence spending by US$8 billion in 2024 Israel's finance ministry is apparently planning to increase defence spending by at least 30 billion shekels ($8.3 billion) next year amid the ongoing war against Hamas, Bloomberg reported. Plane with Indians grounded in France lands in Mumbai, only 276 passengers return The airplane with around 300 Indian passengers on board detained near Paris over suspicions of human trafficking landed in Mumbai, India, on Tuesday (Dec 26) at 4 am. "The plane, which had been grounded since Thursday, departed shortly after 14:30 pm (local time),” BFM TV, a French news broadcast television and radio network, reported. Relief for Imran Khan's party: Peshawar High Court restores PTI's 'bat' election symbol Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) will be breathing easy after the Peshawar High Court on Tuesday (Dec 26) suspended the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) declaration of the PTI’s intra-party polls as unconstitutional whilst calling for revocation of the party's 'bat' election symbol. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s YouTube channel crosses 20 million subscribers; highest among global leaders Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the first world leader whose YouTube channel has crossed the 20 million (two crore) subscribers mark. Regarding views and subscribers, PM Modi has far surpassed the YouTube channels of his Indian and global contemporaries. TikTok users more likely to subscribe to pro-China views: Research A new research published by Taiwan's Information Environment Research Centre (IORG) has revealed that people using the short-video app Douyin, the Chinese-language version of TikTok are more likely to subscribe to views in favour of the communist Chinese government. India: Email bomb threat sent to RBI, HDFC, ICICI banks in Mumbai, authorities investigate The Mumbai Police said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other banks, including the HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank in the city, received a bomb threat. In an email, the sender said bombs were planted at 11 different locations across Mumbai. India vows to find out culprit behind drone attack on merchant ships off its coast, take strict action India vowed on Tuesday (Dec 26) to find out who was behind the drone attack on merchant navy ships of its coast even if it makes it search "depths of seas". Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that the government has taken the drone attack very seriously. He was speaking in Mumbai during the commission ceremony of an Indian Navy warship. Turkey: Luxury cars seized from criminal gangs turned into traffic police vehicles The Turkish police is making the best use of resources it has confiscated from crime organisations. According to the country's interior ministry, as many as 23 luxury cars seized by Istanbul police have been converted to traffic police vehicles to maintain the law and order situation.

Top 10 world news: RBI receives bomb threat, Russia confirms damage to warship by Ukraine, and more

The Turkish air force conducted air strikes in northern Iraq and Syria, destroyed 29 targets of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) after 12 soldiers got killed in the past two days in Northern Iraq. In 2023,Turkiye has carried out 124 strikes in northern Syria. As Turkey airstrikes against Kurdish militants, Human Rights group says 11 civilians' were injured in the latest strikes.

Turkiye intensifies airstrikes in Syria & northern Iraq

Aid agencies issued a warning, stating that families' only chance of survival is being severely limited by the ongoing Israeli offensive, which is pushing Palestinians in Gaza to the verge of mass starvation. The grave situation surfaced one day after the United States vetoed a resolution calling for a cease-fire in the United Nations, impeding the provision of food and other necessities to the area.

Israel-Hamas war: Gazans struggles to find clean drinking water; Telephone, internet services cut

King Charles III on Monday (Dec 25) delivered his second Christmas message, focusing on&nbsp;environment&nbsp;and peace. Addressing&nbsp;Britain in a pre-recorded video message, the monarch touched upon various topics, including his coronation with different royal members making an appearance in&nbsp;footages that did not have&nbsp;Prince Harry, Meghan and Prince Andrew.&nbsp;

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, who acrimoniously quit royal duties in 2020&nbsp;and relocated to California, have remained on the fringes of the royal family while Prince Andrew has never really recovered after his connections to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein were revealed.&nbsp;

In his message, delivered from Buckingham Palace's Centre Room, the king spoke of care and compassion shown to others, whilst talking about the planet and how the people were responsible for it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"To care for this creation is a responsibility owned by people of all faiths and of none," said the king who recently addressed the COP28 UN climate summit in Dubai.&nbsp;

"We care for the earth for the sake of our children's children," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/king-charles-was-devastated-after-prince-harry-got-married-to-meghan-markle-claims-book-526529">Also read |&nbsp;King Charles was ‘devastated’ after Prince Harry got married to Meghan Markle, claims book</a>

The king also reflected on his coronation that took place in May and said he and Queen Camilla were&nbsp;"delighted" by the presence of hundreds of NHS, social care and other key workers at Westminster Abbey.&nbsp;

Clips of him, Camilla, Prince William, the Princess of Wales, and their children Prince George and Princess Charlotte were played taking part in various community projects, including one organised by the Scouts and the Coronation Food Project.

"Throughout the year, my family have witnessed how people of all ages are making a difference to their communities," the king said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-the-british-monarchy-and-its-many-tales-of-racism-corruption-and-insignificance-542076">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The British monarchy and its many tales of racism, corruption and insignificance</a>

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Ending his speech, Charles acknowledged the "increasingly tragic" conflicts around the world and said he prays "that we can also do all in our power to protect each other".&nbsp;

"The words of Jesus seem more than ever relevant: 'Do to others as you would have them do to you'," he said.&nbsp;

"Such values are universal. They remind us to imagine ourselves in the shoes of our neighbours, and to seek their good as we would our own," added&nbsp;King Charles III.

The speech ended with&nbsp;performance by the Bexley Music Primary Choir from south London.

(With inputs from agencies)

King Charles III on Monday (Dec 25) delivered his second Christmas message, focusing on environment and peace. Addressing Britain in a pre-recorded video message, the monarch touched upon various topics, including his coronation with different royal members making an appearance in footages that did not have Prince Harry, Meghan and Prince Andrew.

King Charles III on Monday (Dec 25) delivered his second Christmas message, focusing on environment and peace. Addressing Britain in a pre-recorded video message, the monarch touched upon various topics, including his coronation with different royal members making an appearance in footages that did not have Prince Harry, Meghan and Prince Andrew. Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, who acrimoniously quit royal duties in 2020 and relocated to California, have remained on the fringes of the royal family while Prince Andrew has never really recovered after his connections to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein were revealed. In his message, delivered from Buckingham Palace's Centre Room, the king spoke of care and compassion shown to others, whilst talking about the planet and how the people were responsible for it. "To care for this creation is a responsibility owned by people of all faiths and of none," said the king who recently addressed the COP28 UN climate summit in Dubai. "We care for the earth for the sake of our children's children," he added. Also read | King Charles was ‘devastated’ after Prince Harry got married to Meghan Markle, claims book The king also reflected on his coronation that took place in May and said he and Queen Camilla were "delighted" by the presence of hundreds of NHS, social care and other key workers at Westminster Abbey. Clips of him, Camilla, Prince William, the Princess of Wales, and their children Prince George and Princess Charlotte were played taking part in various community projects, including one organised by the Scouts and the Coronation Food Project. "Throughout the year, my family have witnessed how people of all ages are making a difference to their communities," the king said. Watch | Gravitas Plus: The British monarchy and its many tales of racism, corruption and insignificance × Ending his speech, Charles acknowledged the "increasingly tragic" conflicts around the world and said he prays "that we can also do all in our power to protect each other". "The words of Jesus seem more than ever relevant: 'Do to others as you would have them do to you'," he said. "Such values are universal. They remind us to imagine ourselves in the shoes of our neighbours, and to seek their good as we would our own," added King Charles III. The speech ended with performance by the Bexley Music Primary Choir from south London. (With inputs from agencies)

King Charles III delivers peace message on Christmas; Prince Harry, Meghan remain missing

The armed groups have reportedly killed at least about 160 people in central Nigeria in a series of attacks on villages. This is said to be 10 times who were the first 16 who were first reported being killed by the Army in a region that's long been riddled by religious and ethnic tensions.

Nigeria: Armed groups attacks, kill at least 160 in Central Nigeria

The US military carried out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after three American soldiers were wounded in a drone attack earlier in the day by Iran-aligned militants.

A US base in Iraq's Erbil that houses American forces came under attack from a one-way drone earlier on Monday (Dec 25), leaving one soldier in critical condition.

At President Joe Biden's direction, the US military carried out retaliatory precision air strikes at 1:45 GMT, likely killing "a number of Kataib Hezbollah militants" and destroying multiple facilities used by the group, General Michael Erik Kurilla, head of US Central Command, said in a statement.

<h2>US fights back</h2>

"These strikes are intended to hold accountable those elements directly responsible for attacks on coalition forces in Iraq and Syria and degrade their ability to continue attacks. We will always protect our forces," he added.

The Pentagon, however, did not reveal details about the identity of the injured personnel or offer more details on the injuries sustained in the attack.

Taking to social media X, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin described the strikes as "necessary" and "proportionate".

"Today, at @POTUS' direction, US military forces conducted necessary &amp; proportionate strikes on 3 facilities used by Kataib Hezbollah &amp; affiliated groups in Iraq.”

“These precision strikes are a response to a series of attacks against US personnel in Iraq &amp; Syria by Iranian-sponsored militias, including an attack by Iran-affiliated Kataib Hezbollah and affiliated groups on Erbil Air Base earlier today," Austin said in a statement that also shared on X.

<h2>Comes amidst spate of attacks&nbsp;</h2>

The White House National Security Council said that the president Biden was briefed on the attack on Monday morning and ordered the Pentagon to prepare response options against those responsible.

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"The President places no higher priority than the protection of American personnel serving in harm’s way. The United States will act at a time and in a manner of our choosing should these attacks continue," NSC spokesperson Adrienne Watson said.

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Monday's attack comes in the backdrop of a surge of violence that began in mid-October, when Iran-aligned militias started targeting US assets in Iraq and Syria over Washington's backing of Israel in its war against Hamas in Gaza.

&nbsp;

The US military carried out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after three American soldiers were wounded in a drone attack earlier in the day by Iran-aligned militants.

The US military carried out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after three American soldiers were wounded in a drone attack earlier in the day by Iran-aligned militants. A US base in Iraq's Erbil that houses American forces came under attack from a one-way drone earlier on Monday (Dec 25), leaving one soldier in critical condition. At President Joe Biden's direction, the US military carried out retaliatory precision air strikes at 1:45 GMT, likely killing "a number of Kataib Hezbollah militants" and destroying multiple facilities used by the group, General Michael Erik Kurilla, head of US Central Command, said in a statement. US fights back "These strikes are intended to hold accountable those elements directly responsible for attacks on coalition forces in Iraq and Syria and degrade their ability to continue attacks. We will always protect our forces," he added. The Pentagon, however, did not reveal details about the identity of the injured personnel or offer more details on the injuries sustained in the attack. Taking to social media X, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin described the strikes as "necessary" and "proportionate". "Today, at @POTUS' direction, US military forces conducted necessary & proportionate strikes on 3 facilities used by Kataib Hezbollah & affiliated groups in Iraq.” “These precision strikes are a response to a series of attacks against US personnel in Iraq & Syria by Iranian-sponsored militias, including an attack by Iran-affiliated Kataib Hezbollah and affiliated groups on Erbil Air Base earlier today," Austin said in a statement that also shared on X. Comes amidst spate of attacks The White House National Security Council said that the president Biden was briefed on the attack on Monday morning and ordered the Pentagon to prepare response options against those responsible. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Six killed after attacks on Kherson, Horlivka; Moscow ‘will be defeated’, says Zelensky "The President places no higher priority than the protection of American personnel serving in harm’s way. The United States will act at a time and in a manner of our choosing should these attacks continue," NSC spokesperson Adrienne Watson said. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow claims to have seized town in eastern Ukraine Monday's attack comes in the backdrop of a surge of violence that began in mid-October, when Iran-aligned militias started targeting US assets in Iraq and Syria over Washington's backing of Israel in its war against Hamas in Gaza.

US carries out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after militants target military base leaving three injured

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Authorities have launched a probe as Republican US Rep Marjorie Taylor Greene said that she was the target of a swatting attempt at her Georgia residence on Christmas morning.&nbsp;

The congresswoman and local police said that this has become the latest instance of someone calling in a fake emergency to draw armed officers or SWAT teams to her home, which is located about 113 kilometres northwest of Atlanta.&nbsp;

According to the spokesperson Kelly Madden, the Rome Police Department quickly verified that the call was a hoax and did not send officers to the house.&nbsp;

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Greene wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter: "I was just swatted. This is like the 8th time. On Christmas with my family here. My local police are the GREATEST and shouldn't have to deal with this."&nbsp;

Madden said that a man in New York called the Georgia suicide hotline just before 11 am (local time) Monday, claiming that he had shot his girlfriend at Greene's home and was going to kill himself next.&nbsp;

When suicide hotline responders recognised the Georgia congresswoman's address, the call was quickly transferred to police.&nbsp;

The department contacted Greene's private security detail to assure her safety and that there was no emergency at her apartment.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/epileptic-boy-enjoys-first-seizure-free-christmas-in-13-years-after-doctors-remove-part-of-his-brain-673730">Epileptic boy enjoys first seizure-free Christmas in 13 years after doctors remove part of his brain</a>&nbsp;

Because the call was discovered to be a swatting attempt, the police response was cancelled when they were on the way, according to Madden.&nbsp;

She said, "We determined before our personnel could get to her location that there was no emergency and there was no reason to respond. Her security detail had it all under control, and there actually was nothing going on."&nbsp;

Madden said that Greene's statement noted that she has been the target of around eight swatting attempts. Previously, calls have claimed that dead bodies had been found in the bathtub and in other areas of her home.&nbsp;

Police also responded last year to false reports of shootings outside her residence.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Authorities have launched a probe as Republican US Rep Marjorie Taylor Greene said that she was the target of a swatting attempt at her Georgia residence on Christmas morning.

Authorities have launched a probe as Republican US Rep Marjorie Taylor Greene said that she was the target of a swatting attempt at her Georgia residence on Christmas morning. The congresswoman and local police said that this has become the latest instance of someone calling in a fake emergency to draw armed officers or SWAT teams to her home, which is located about 113 kilometres northwest of Atlanta. According to the spokesperson Kelly Madden, the Rome Police Department quickly verified that the call was a hoax and did not send officers to the house. Also read: Biden administration allows Apple watch import ban in US following tribunal ruling Greene wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter: "I was just swatted. This is like the 8th time. On Christmas with my family here. My local police are the GREATEST and shouldn't have to deal with this." Madden said that a man in New York called the Georgia suicide hotline just before 11 am (local time) Monday, claiming that he had shot his girlfriend at Greene's home and was going to kill himself next. When suicide hotline responders recognised the Georgia congresswoman's address, the call was quickly transferred to police. The department contacted Greene's private security detail to assure her safety and that there was no emergency at her apartment. Also read: Epileptic boy enjoys first seizure-free Christmas in 13 years after doctors remove part of his brain Because the call was discovered to be a swatting attempt, the police response was cancelled when they were on the way, according to Madden. She said, "We determined before our personnel could get to her location that there was no emergency and there was no reason to respond. Her security detail had it all under control, and there actually was nothing going on." Madden said that Greene's statement noted that she has been the target of around eight swatting attempts. Previously, calls have claimed that dead bodies had been found in the bathtub and in other areas of her home. Police also responded last year to false reports of shootings outside her residence. (With inputs from agencies)

Marjorie Taylor Greene says she was targeted by failed swatting attempt on Christmas

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