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Singapore witnessed a record rise in the number of coronavirus cases in the first week of December, after which the Ministry of Health (MOH) released a statement "strongly encouraging" people to wear a mask.

The Covid-19 cases rose to 56,043, between Dec 3 to 9, which was 75 per cent more than what was recorded in the previous week at 32,035.

The average daily hospitalisations rose from 225 to 350 whereas the average daily cases in the intensive care unit spiked from four to nine.

The Singapore government said that the dominant variant reported in the majority of cases was JN.1, which was a sublineage of BA.2.86.

"Based on the available international and local data, there is currently no clear indication that BA.2.86 or JN.1 are more transmissible or cause more severe disease than other circulating variants," MOH said in a statement.&nbsp;

The ministry also urged people to exercise personal and social responsibility stating that people who are down with acute respiratory infection symptoms should refrain from contact with others and stay at home.

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🦠 The estimated number of COVID-19 cases has risen to 56,043 in the week of 3 to 9 December. 
 
💪 To stop the spread of COVID-19, let's exercise social responsibility. 
 
😷 Refer to this graphic for a list of situations where mask-wearing is encouraged. <a href="https://t.co/3TgkILg3dj">pic.twitter.com/3TgkILg3dj</a>
— Ministry of Health (@MOHSingapore) <a href="https://twitter.com/MOHSingapore/status/1735630085099757812?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"We urge the public to seek medical treatment at a hospital’s emergency department only for serious or life-threatening emergencies," stressed the ministry.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kerala-sees-uptick-in-covid-19-cases-with-over-750-active-cases-in-state-669284">India: Kerala sees uptick in COVID-19 spread with over 750 active cases in state</a>

"This will preserve our hospital capacity for patients who truly need acute hospital care and allow those with severe illness to receive timely treatment."

<h2>Measures taken by government</h2>

The MoH, as per the Straits Times, amid the grave situation, announced its plan to open a Covid-19 treatment facility at Singapore Expo Hall 10 in the coming weekend to increase the number of beds for patients.

“To preserve our healthcare capacity, MOH has been working with public hospitals for contingency planning, including ensuring adequate manpower and deferring of non-urgent electives to maximise bed capacity for urgent cases in need of acute care," according to the statement.

Singapore's health ministry also said in a statement that it was working with the hospitals to devise contingency planning in order to provide patients with immediate care.

"In addition, hospitals are tapping on step-down facilities like Transitional Care Facilities and alternative care models like Mobile Inpatient Care@Home (MIC@Home) to ensure proper right-siting of patients," MOH said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Singapore witnessed a record rise in the number of coronavirus cases in the first week of December, after which the Ministry of Health (MOH) released a statement "strongly encouraging" people to wear a mask.

Singapore witnessed a record rise in the number of coronavirus cases in the first week of December, after which the Ministry of Health (MOH) released a statement "strongly encouraging" people to wear a mask. The Covid-19 cases rose to 56,043, between Dec 3 to 9, which was 75 per cent more than what was recorded in the previous week at 32,035. The average daily hospitalisations rose from 225 to 350 whereas the average daily cases in the intensive care unit spiked from four to nine. The Singapore government said that the dominant variant reported in the majority of cases was JN.1, which was a sublineage of BA.2.86. "Based on the available international and local data, there is currently no clear indication that BA.2.86 or JN.1 are more transmissible or cause more severe disease than other circulating variants," MOH said in a statement. The ministry also urged people to exercise personal and social responsibility stating that people who are down with acute respiratory infection symptoms should refrain from contact with others and stay at home. 🦠 The estimated number of COVID-19 cases has risen to 56,043 in the week of 3 to 9 December. 💪 To stop the spread of COVID-19, let's exercise social responsibility. 😷 Refer to this graphic for a list of situations where mask-wearing is encouraged. pic.twitter.com/3TgkILg3dj — Ministry of Health (@MOHSingapore) December 15, 2023 × "We urge the public to seek medical treatment at a hospital’s emergency department only for serious or life-threatening emergencies," stressed the ministry. Also read: India: Kerala sees uptick in COVID-19 spread with over 750 active cases in state "This will preserve our hospital capacity for patients who truly need acute hospital care and allow those with severe illness to receive timely treatment." Measures taken by government The MoH, as per the Straits Times, amid the grave situation, announced its plan to open a Covid-19 treatment facility at Singapore Expo Hall 10 in the coming weekend to increase the number of beds for patients. “To preserve our healthcare capacity, MOH has been working with public hospitals for contingency planning, including ensuring adequate manpower and deferring of non-urgent electives to maximise bed capacity for urgent cases in need of acute care," according to the statement. Singapore's health ministry also said in a statement that it was working with the hospitals to devise contingency planning in order to provide patients with immediate care. "In addition, hospitals are tapping on step-down facilities like Transitional Care Facilities and alternative care models like Mobile Inpatient Care@Home (MIC@Home) to ensure proper right-siting of patients," MOH said. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore witnesses record surge in number of Covid-19 cases, mask-mandate returns

In a landmark ruling, Vatican has approved Christian priests' blessing same-sex couples. The Vatican says that priests can administer blessings as long as the couples are not part of regular church rituals.

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The US and its allies have announced a 10 nation patrol force to counter attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. After several commercial vessels were attacked.

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Over 170 people associated with disgraced paedophile Jeffery Epstein will be named in court documents, set to be released early next year. Judge Loretta Preska on Monday (Dec 18) announced the release of long-sealed documents that are related to Epstein accuser Virginia Roberts Giuffre who had brought a defamation suit against his madam, Ghislaine Maxwell, back in 2015.

Over 170 people associated with disgraced paedophile Jeffery Epstein will be named in court documents, set to be released early next year. Judge Loretta Preska on Monday (Dec 18) announced the release of long-sealed documents that are related to Epstein accuser Virginia Roberts Giuffre who had brought a defamation suit against his madam, Ghislaine Maxwell, back in 2015. Prior to the ruling, dozens of individuals, including some high-class personalities had only been identified as "Jane Does” or “John Does” in various court filings linked to the suit. The individuals, whose names appear in the documents have been given 14 days to appeal the decision, the court documents reveal. "The Court stays its order for fourteen days to permit any impacted Doe the opportunity to appeal, after which counsel are asked to confer, prepare the documents for unsealing pursuant to this order, and post the documents on the docket," read the verdict. According to reports, there will be unsealed documents about one of Prince Andrew's accusers, who claims he fondled her breasts at Epstein's New York mansion. The documents related to the case have slowly trickled into the public since 2019 when the first batch was released, days before Epstein allegedly hanged himself in prison, awaiting trial. There has been a long-brewing conspiracy that the high-profile names that were in contact with Epstein had managed to keep their names behind redacted lines due to their power and influence. WATCH | Private Islands owned by Jeffrey Epstein What did Epstein do? Epstein was accused of sexually exploiting dozens of underage girls, some as young as 14, at his homes in Manhattan and Palm Beach, Florida between 2002 and 2005. However, the majority of his sexual exploits took place on the 72-acre Little St. James Island which he purchased in 1998 for $7.95 million. He later bought the 160-acre Great St. James Island for $20 million in 2016 and brought his victims there using a private jet. Several associates of Epstein are believed to have arrived on the island and participated in similar sexual misadventures. Also read | JPMorgan settles Epstein sex trafficking lawsuit with US Virgin Islands, to pay $75million After Epstein's alleged suicide, Maxwell was arrested in the United States and charged with sex trafficking minors for him on July 2, 2020. After a very public trial where Maxwell became the face of Epstein's sex-fuelled empire, she was handed a 20-year prison sentence by a court in New York in June, earlier this year. (With inputs from agencies)

New Year reveal: Over 170 high-profile people with links to Jeffrey Epstein to be named in unsealed court docs

Texas' Republican Governor has signed a crucial bill to allow state police to deport migrants accused of crossing into the US from Mexico illegally. The Republican majority Texas state has passed the bill last month.

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Israel will gradually transition to the next phase of operations in Gaza, the country's defence minister said on Monday following talks with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about lower intensity combat and ways to reduce harm to civilians.

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The second-largest economy in the world is having difficulty picking up steam following years of covid-19 lockdowns. Apart from china's real estate meltdown battering middle-class wealth, there's also the growing threat of unemployment.

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Chaos and uproar continue in India's Parliament as a record number of MPs have now been suspended from the house. The tally now stands at 141.

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The United States announced that several countries have agreed to jointly carry out patrols in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to protect commercial ships from missile and drone attacks by Yemen-based Houthis, who say they are doing so in support of Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

The US-led “multinational security initiative” will be joined by Bahrain, Britain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain.&nbsp;

The 10-nation coalition comes amid a rise in attacks by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen who have waded into the Israel-Hamas war by launching missiles and drones on commercial vessels on the key trading route which carries up to 12 per cent of global trade.&nbsp;

<h2>About the 10-nation coalition</h2>

“This is an international challenge that demands collective action. Therefore today I am announcing the establishment of Operation Prosperity Guardian, an important new multinational security initiative,” said US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who is on a visit to Bahrain, in a statement, on Tuesday (Dec 19).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighs-options-to-retaliate-against-houthi-attacks-in-red-sea-report-670514">US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report</a>

“Countries that seek to uphold the foundational principle of freedom of navigation must come together to tackle the challenge posed by this non-state actor,” it added. It was not immediately clear if the countries would be willing to do what the American warships have been doing in recent days.&nbsp;

US-deployed warships have shot down Houthi missiles and drones as well as rushed to the aid of commercial ships under attack. The recent attacks have prompted many shipping companies to halt transit through the troubled but vital waterway which might disrupt global trade.&nbsp;

American forces have also reportedly shot down drones and missiles fired at Israel from the Yemeni capital of Sanaa to prevent the current war from spreading to the rest of the region.&nbsp;

<h2>Two commercial ships attacked</h2>

Houthis, on Monday (Dec 18) attacked two more commercial shipping vessels in the southern Red Sea, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM), in a statement.&nbsp;

According to the US forces in the region, the Norwegian-owned chemical/oil tanker Swan Atlantic was attacked by a drone and an anti-ship ballistic missile.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shoots-down-drones-assists-multiple-commercial-vessels-attacked-in-red-sea-by-yemens-houthis-665938">US shoots down drones, assists multiple commercial vessels attacked in Red Sea by Yemen’s Houthis</a>

Around the same time, in a separate incident, a bulk cargo ship MSC Clara reported an explosion in the water near its location. There were no injuries reported on both vessels.&nbsp;

<h2>Houthis claim responsibility for attacks</h2>

The Yemeni rebels claimed responsibility for the attacks on what they called two “Israeli-linked” vessels in the Red Sea in solidarity with Gaza. In a statement, Houthis said that they carried out a “military operation against two ships linked to the Zionist entity” using naval drones.

Houthi spokesperson Yahya Sarea later claimed that the crews failed to respond to calls from the group. The Iran-backed group has threatened to target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality and warned international shipping companies against dealing with Israeli ports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vessel-attacked-in-red-sea-off-yemen-coast-us-blames-houthis-671002">Vessel attacked in Red Sea off Yemen coast, US blames Houthis</a>

Swan Atlantic’s owner, as per AFP said that the ship was carrying biofuel feedstock from France to Reunion Island and that their vessel had “no Israeli link” given that it is managed by a Singaporean firm and was run by an Indian crew, which was unharmed in&nbsp;the incident.

Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi politburo, told Al Jazeera that his group would be able to confront any US-led coalition that was deployed to the Red Sea.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States announced that several countries have agreed to jointly carry out patrols in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to protect commercial ships from missile and drone attacks by Yemen-based Houthis, who say they are doing so in support of Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

The United States announced that several countries have agreed to jointly carry out patrols in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to protect commercial ships from missile and drone attacks by Yemen-based Houthis, who say they are doing so in support of Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The US-led “multinational security initiative” will be joined by Bahrain, Britain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain. The 10-nation coalition comes amid a rise in attacks by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen who have waded into the Israel-Hamas war by launching missiles and drones on commercial vessels on the key trading route which carries up to 12 per cent of global trade. About the 10-nation coalition “This is an international challenge that demands collective action. Therefore today I am announcing the establishment of Operation Prosperity Guardian, an important new multinational security initiative,” said US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who is on a visit to Bahrain, in a statement, on Tuesday (Dec 19). ALSO READ | US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report “Countries that seek to uphold the foundational principle of freedom of navigation must come together to tackle the challenge posed by this non-state actor,” it added. It was not immediately clear if the countries would be willing to do what the American warships have been doing in recent days. US-deployed warships have shot down Houthi missiles and drones as well as rushed to the aid of commercial ships under attack. The recent attacks have prompted many shipping companies to halt transit through the troubled but vital waterway which might disrupt global trade. American forces have also reportedly shot down drones and missiles fired at Israel from the Yemeni capital of Sanaa to prevent the current war from spreading to the rest of the region. Two commercial ships attacked Houthis, on Monday (Dec 18) attacked two more commercial shipping vessels in the southern Red Sea, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM), in a statement. According to the US forces in the region, the Norwegian-owned chemical/oil tanker Swan Atlantic was attacked by a drone and an anti-ship ballistic missile. ALSO READ | US shoots down drones, assists multiple commercial vessels attacked in Red Sea by Yemen’s Houthis Around the same time, in a separate incident, a bulk cargo ship MSC Clara reported an explosion in the water near its location. There were no injuries reported on both vessels. Houthis claim responsibility for attacks The Yemeni rebels claimed responsibility for the attacks on what they called two “Israeli-linked” vessels in the Red Sea in solidarity with Gaza. In a statement, Houthis said that they carried out a “military operation against two ships linked to the Zionist entity” using naval drones. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Sarea later claimed that the crews failed to respond to calls from the group. The Iran-backed group has threatened to target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality and warned international shipping companies against dealing with Israeli ports. ALSO READ | Vessel attacked in Red Sea off Yemen coast, US blames Houthis Swan Atlantic’s owner, as per AFP said that the ship was carrying biofuel feedstock from France to Reunion Island and that their vessel had “no Israeli link” given that it is managed by a Singaporean firm and was run by an Indian crew, which was unharmed in the incident. Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi politburo, told Al Jazeera that his group would be able to confront any US-led coalition that was deployed to the Red Sea. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces 10-nation coalition to respond to attacks by Yemen’s Houthis in Red Sea

Known for his role as Kang in the Marvel movies, actor Jonathan Majors was found guilty of beating his former lover. The jury concluded that in a March altercation, Majors assaulted British choreographer Grace Jabbari.

Marvel drops actor Jonathan Majors after assault, harassment verdict

Iraq holds first provincial council elections in a decade

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday (Dec 19) classified the JN.1 strain of COVID-19 as a "variant of interest" but added that it did not pose a major threat to public health. 
 
Previously, JN.1 was classified as a variant of interest under its parent lineage BA.2.86. "Based on the available evidence, the additional global public health risk posed by JN.1 is currently evaluated as low," said WHO. 
 
The organisation added that current vaccines will be able to protect people against severe disease and death from the new variant JN.1 as well as other circulating variants of COVID-19. 
 
The World Health Organization earlier said that the virus has been evolving and changing and appealed to the member states to continue sharing the sequence of virus spread and carry out strong surveillance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-new-concerning-covid-19-subvariant-jn1-detected-in-kerala-know-its-symptoms-669486">JN.1 in India and HV.1 in US, Covid doesn't seem to be giving us a break</a>

Taking to X, the WHO wrote, “Dr @mvankerkhove talks about the current surge in respiratory diseases #COVID19 and JN.1 subvariant. WHO continues to assess the situation. Follow WHO's public health advice to keep your families and friends safe during this holiday season.” 
 
Earlier this month, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that the subvariant JN.1 has been found in an estimated 15 per cent to 29 per cent of cases in the United States till December 8, as per the latest projections of the agency. 
 
It said that currently, no evidence has proved that JN.1 can increase the risk to public health in comparison to other current variants which have been circulating and added that that an updated vaccine will be helpful in keeping Americans protected against the variant. 
 
According to the CDC, the variant of JN.1 was first detected in September in the United States. Last week, seven infections of the COVID subvariant were detected by China.

<h2>JN.1 variant in India</h2>

The JN.1 variant was also detected in the Indian state of Kerala which forced the government to issue an advisory to the state governments appealing them to make adequate health arrangements.

Watch:&nbsp;Covid-19 makes global comeback; new Omicron sub-variant JN.1 causes global concern&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-makes-global-comeback-new-omicron-sub-variant-jn1-causes-global-concern-wion-671372/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Considering the upcoming festive season, there is a need to put in place requisite public health measures and other arrangements to minimise the risk of increase in transmission of the disease by adherence to the maintenance of respiratory hygiene,” read the advisory.

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday (Dec 19) classified the JN.1 strain of COVID-19 as a "variant of interest" but added that it did not pose a major threat to public health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday (Dec 19) classified the JN.1 strain of COVID-19 as a "variant of interest" but added that it did not pose a major threat to public health. Previously, JN.1 was classified as a variant of interest under its parent lineage BA.2.86. "Based on the available evidence, the additional global public health risk posed by JN.1 is currently evaluated as low," said WHO. The organisation added that current vaccines will be able to protect people against severe disease and death from the new variant JN.1 as well as other circulating variants of COVID-19. The World Health Organization earlier said that the virus has been evolving and changing and appealed to the member states to continue sharing the sequence of virus spread and carry out strong surveillance. Also read: JN.1 in India and HV.1 in US, Covid doesn't seem to be giving us a break Taking to X, the WHO wrote, “Dr @mvankerkhove talks about the current surge in respiratory diseases #COVID19 and JN.1 subvariant. WHO continues to assess the situation. Follow WHO's public health advice to keep your families and friends safe during this holiday season.” Earlier this month, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that the subvariant JN.1 has been found in an estimated 15 per cent to 29 per cent of cases in the United States till December 8, as per the latest projections of the agency. It said that currently, no evidence has proved that JN.1 can increase the risk to public health in comparison to other current variants which have been circulating and added that that an updated vaccine will be helpful in keeping Americans protected against the variant. According to the CDC, the variant of JN.1 was first detected in September in the United States. Last week, seven infections of the COVID subvariant were detected by China. JN.1 variant in India The JN.1 variant was also detected in the Indian state of Kerala which forced the government to issue an advisory to the state governments appealing them to make adequate health arrangements. Watch: Covid-19 makes global comeback; new Omicron sub-variant JN.1 causes global concern "Considering the upcoming festive season, there is a need to put in place requisite public health measures and other arrangements to minimise the risk of increase in transmission of the disease by adherence to the maintenance of respiratory hygiene,” read the advisory. (With inputs from agencies)

WHO labels JN.1 Covid strain as a ‘variant of interest’, says its health risk is low

At least 116&nbsp;people have been killed in the Gansu province after a strong, shallow tremor, according to the state broadcaster CCTV citing provincial earthquake relief headquarters.&nbsp;The quake struck Jishishan county in China’s northwestern province of Gansu at around 11:59 am (local time), on Monday (Dec 18) at a depth of 10 kilometres, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC). Meanwhile, the White House is hoping that the ongoing discussions will lead to another potential hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, according to White House spokesperson John Kirby. You can follow WION's website for live coverage of the conflict.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-more-than-110-people-have-been-killed-after-earthquake-in-gansu-province-671082">China: Death toll rises to at least 116 after earthquake in Gansu province</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400028-wion-images-2023-12-19t084739745.png?imwidth=3840" />At least 116&nbsp;people have been killed after a magnitude-6.2 earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county in northwest China, reported the country’s state media, on Tuesday (Dec 19).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-us-forms-multinational-red-sea-force-to-deter-attacks-from-iranian-allies-671089">US forms multinational Red Sea force to deter attacks from Iranian allies</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400020-untitled-design-17.jpg?imwidth=3840" />The US, along with its partners, has launched Operation Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea, which brings together the United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain, to jointly address security challenges in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volcano-on-icelands-reykjavik-erupts-in-a-spectacular-lava-show-671096">Volcano on Iceland's Reykjavík erupts in a spectacular lava show. Watch!</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400024-new-wion-22.jpg?imwidth=3840" />Spewing lava and smoke in an awe-inspiring yet frightening display, a volcano in Southwest Iceland erupted late on Monday after weeks of intense earthquake activity, Iceland's Meteorological Office said.

Pope approves blessings for same-sex couples as long as it doesn't hamper Church rituals

The Vatican said on Monday in a landmark ruling approved by Pope Francis that Roman Catholic priests can administer blessings to same-sex couples as long as they are not part of regular Church rituals or liturgies, including marriage.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/smart-devices-evesdropping-for-ad-targeting-and-listening-to-your-conversations-secretly-671107">Smart devices evesdropping for ad targeting and listening to your conversations secretly?</a>

You may be one of the many individuals who think that the discussions they have next to their cellphones result in them seeing online advertisements for goods or services they may have discussed with others offline. Or you may know individuals who hold that belief.

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At least 116 people have been killed in the Gansu province after a strong, shallow tremor, according to the state broadcaster CCTV citing provincial earthquake relief headquarters.

At least 116 people have been killed in the Gansu province after a strong, shallow tremor, according to the state broadcaster CCTV citing provincial earthquake relief headquarters. The quake struck Jishishan county in China’s northwestern province of Gansu at around 11:59 am (local time), on Monday (Dec 18) at a depth of 10 kilometres, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC). Meanwhile, the White House is hoping that the ongoing discussions will lead to another potential hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, according to White House spokesperson John Kirby. You can follow WION's website for live coverage of the conflict. Click on the headlines to read more. China: Death toll rises to at least 116 after earthquake in Gansu province At least 116 people have been killed after a magnitude-6.2 earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county in northwest China, reported the country’s state media, on Tuesday (Dec 19). US forms multinational Red Sea force to deter attacks from Iranian allies The US, along with its partners, has launched Operation Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea, which brings together the United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain, to jointly address security challenges in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Volcano on Iceland's Reykjavík erupts in a spectacular lava show. Watch! Spewing lava and smoke in an awe-inspiring yet frightening display, a volcano in Southwest Iceland erupted late on Monday after weeks of intense earthquake activity, Iceland's Meteorological Office said. Pope approves blessings for same-sex couples as long as it doesn't hamper Church rituals The Vatican said on Monday in a landmark ruling approved by Pope Francis that Roman Catholic priests can administer blessings to same-sex couples as long as they are not part of regular Church rituals or liturgies, including marriage. × Smart devices evesdropping for ad targeting and listening to your conversations secretly? You may be one of the many individuals who think that the discussions they have next to their cellphones result in them seeing online advertisements for goods or services they may have discussed with others offline. Or you may know individuals who hold that belief. ×

Morning brief: Death toll in China quake rises to 116, latest from Israel-Hamas war, and more

A magnitude-6.2 earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county on the northern edge of the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau around midnight on Tuesday, killing at least 118 people and injuring more than 230, according to Chinese state media.

Magnitude 6.2 quake kills 118 in northwestern China's Gansu, Qinghai provinces

Near midnight on Tuesday, a magnitude-6.2 earthquake rocked a secluded and hilly county on the northern edge of the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau, killing at least 111 and injured over 230, according to Chinese official media.

China Earthquake: Earthquake with magnitude 6.2 hits Gansu-Qinghai border region

China Earthquake: Magnitude 6.2 quake followed by several aftershocks

A senior Hamas official said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the militant group does not want to hold negotiations&nbsp;over prisoner exchange while the war with Israel is going on. However, he said that Hamas was open to negotiations to end the war which he termed 'genocidal'.

"We affirm our position of categorically rejecting to hold any form of negotiations over prisoners exchange under the continuing Israeli genocidal war,"&nbsp;Basem Naem said in a statement

"We are, however, open to any initiative that contributes to ending the aggression on our people and opening the crossings to bring in aid and provide relief to the Palestinian people," he added.

Basem Naem was quoted by Israeli media.

Tuesday saw Israel launch more strikes on Gaza. These strikes have taken place amid expectations that United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is preparing to hold another vote on ceasefire demand. The Israel-Hamas war has begun to lead to regional ramifications with Yemen's Houthi Rebels attacking shipping in the Red Sea, attacks they say are mounted to show solidarity with&nbsp;Palestinians. These attacks have started disrupting shipping through the crucial waterway.

Watch | Red Sea attacks disrupt sea shipping: 10 nation-coalition to combat Houthi attacks

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US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reiterated US support for Israel in a joint press conference with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv. Austin said that USA would continue to provide arms and ammunition to Israel.

In order to tackle the menace of Houthi attack, the US is trying to cobble together an international alliance which may include warships from Britain, France, Italy, Spain and other countries.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-10-nation-coalition-to-respond-to-attacks-by-yemens-houthis-in-red-sea-671127">US announces 10-nation coalition to respond to attacks by Yemen’s Houthis in Red Sea</a>

<h2>Director of Gaza hospital admits Hamas used facility for military operations: IDF</h2>

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have published a video from their official handle on X (formerly Twitter) saying that Ahmad Kahalot, a senior member of Hamas and director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza Strip has revealed during interrogation that Hamas fighters used the hospital to hide and as a base for their military operations.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-new-hostage-video-israel-terms-it-atrocious-terror-671283">Hamas releases new hostage video, Israel terms it ‘atrocious terror’</a>

In the video, neither the interrogator nor Kahalot are speaking in English and viewers get information through English subtitles.

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Hamas in their own words: 
 
Ahmad Kahalot—Senior Hamas Member since 2010 and director of the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Jabalya in northern Gaza admits that Hamas has used hospitals as military facilities under their control. 
 
Video credit: ISA Spokesperson <a href="https://t.co/QGLclR94at">pic.twitter.com/QGLclR94at</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1737118015509147970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Israel has been claiming that Hamas was using hospitals as bases for their military operations and Hamas has regularly denied the accusation.

(With inputs from agencies)

A senior Hamas official said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the militant group does not want to hold negotiations over prisoner exchange while the war with Israel is going on.

A senior Hamas official said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the militant group does not want to hold negotiations over prisoner exchange while the war with Israel is going on. However, he said that Hamas was open to negotiations to end the war which he termed 'genocidal'. "We affirm our position of categorically rejecting to hold any form of negotiations over prisoners exchange under the continuing Israeli genocidal war," Basem Naem said in a statement "We are, however, open to any initiative that contributes to ending the aggression on our people and opening the crossings to bring in aid and provide relief to the Palestinian people," he added. Basem Naem was quoted by Israeli media. Tuesday saw Israel launch more strikes on Gaza. These strikes have taken place amid expectations that United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is preparing to hold another vote on ceasefire demand. The Israel-Hamas war has begun to lead to regional ramifications with Yemen's Houthi Rebels attacking shipping in the Red Sea, attacks they say are mounted to show solidarity with Palestinians. These attacks have started disrupting shipping through the crucial waterway. Watch | Red Sea attacks disrupt sea shipping: 10 nation-coalition to combat Houthi attacks × US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reiterated US support for Israel in a joint press conference with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv. Austin said that USA would continue to provide arms and ammunition to Israel. In order to tackle the menace of Houthi attack, the US is trying to cobble together an international alliance which may include warships from Britain, France, Italy, Spain and other countries. Also Read | US announces 10-nation coalition to respond to attacks by Yemen’s Houthis in Red Sea Director of Gaza hospital admits Hamas used facility for military operations: IDF Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have published a video from their official handle on X (formerly Twitter) saying that Ahmad Kahalot, a senior member of Hamas and director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza Strip has revealed during interrogation that Hamas fighters used the hospital to hide and as a base for their military operations. Also Read | Hamas releases new hostage video, Israel terms it ‘atrocious terror’ In the video, neither the interrogator nor Kahalot are speaking in English and viewers get information through English subtitles. Hamas in their own words: Ahmad Kahalot—Senior Hamas Member since 2010 and director of the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Jabalya in northern Gaza admits that Hamas has used hospitals as military facilities under their control. Video credit: ISA Spokesperson pic.twitter.com/QGLclR94at — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 19, 2023 × Israel has been claiming that Hamas was using hospitals as bases for their military operations and Hamas has regularly denied the accusation. (With inputs from agencies)

Ready to negotiate to end war, but not prisoner exchange, says Hamas: Reports

Vladimir Putin hails Russia-China relations during his China visit

The Vatican said on Monday in a landmark ruling approved by Pope Francis that Roman Catholic priests can administer blessings to same-sex couples as long as they are not part of regular Church rituals or liturgies including marriage.

Pope Fracis's conditional blessings for same-sex couples

The European Union Council has adopted a 12th package of sanctions against Russia, the European Commission said in a statement on Monday, after Austria gave its final approval over the weekend. The package focuses on a Russian-origin diamond import ban as well as imposing additional import and export bans on Russia, combating sanctions circumvention and closing loopholes, it said.

EU adopts 12th package of economic and individual sanctions

2023 was meant to be the year that Hong Kong made a comeback to the global scene, kicking off a period tainted by protests, political repression, and covid restrictions. Instead, this year ended up being one of the worst years for the financial centre in recent memory. The hang seng index has dropped 15%, placing it among the largest decliners in the world.

Hong Kong's comeback story turns terrible this year

Days after announcing that Russia was expanding its troops size, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 19) said the country was also upgrading its nuclear arsenal. In other news, the death toll due to the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that jolted the northwest part of China had risen to 126, as of the last update.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-says-russia-upgrading-nuclear-arsenal-amid-hybrid-war-with-west-671399">Vladimir Putin says Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal amid 'hybrid war' with West</a>

Vladimir Putin told the conference of senior defence officials on Tuesday (Dec 19) that Russia is upgrading its nuclear arsenal amid its ongoing war against Ukraine and Western fears of nuclear conflict.&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/08/398022-russian-president-vladimir-putin.png?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-speaks-to-israels-netanyahu-urges-for-early-restoration-of-peace-671389">PM Modi speaks to Israel's Netanyahu, urges for 'early restoration of peace'</a>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Dec 19) spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and highlighted New Delhi's stand in favour of ceasefire and "early restoration of peace".

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/38535-modi-netanyahu-20180115012736-20180116102434.JPG?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-more-than-110-people-have-been-killed-after-earthquake-in-gansu-province-671082">China: Death toll rises to at least 126 after earthquake in Gansu province</a>

At least 126&nbsp;people have been killed after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county in northwest China, reported the country’s state media, on Tuesday (Dec 19).

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400150-wion-images-2023-12-19t140511683.png?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/iceland-volcano-is-ejecting-enough-lava-to-fill-olympic-swimming-pool-in-20-seconds-671351">Iceland volcano is ejecting enough lava to fill olympic swimming pool in 20 seconds</a>

A volcano in Iceland erupted on Tuesday (Dec 19) sending molten lava in the sky.&nbsp;The eruption in southwest Iceland took place after the region rumbled due to earthquakes for weeks.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400024-new-wion-22.jpg?imwidth=3840" /> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/teachers-in-uk-dont-have-to-address-students-by-their-preferred-pronouns-under-new-guidance-671434">Teachers in UK don't have to address students by their preferred pronouns under new guidance</a>

Under the new guidance released by the UK&nbsp;Department of Education, teachers in the country have been told they do not have to address students by their chosen pronouns.&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/04/377475-untitled-image-30.png?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-to-cough-700mn-as-part-of-antitrust-settlement-week-after-defeat-against-epic-games-671324">Google to cough up $700mn as part of Play Store antitrust settlement, week after defeat against Epic Games</a>

Tech giant Google's parent company Alphabet has agreed to pay $700 million to settle an antitrust case with US states and consumers filed in federal court on Monday (Dec 18).

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/08/397968-untitled-design-2023-12-08t124532478.png?imwidth=3840" /> 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-and-delhis-air-quality-on-par-after-duck-creek-pilliga-forest-bushfire-671326">Sydney and Delhi’s air quality on par after Duck Creek, Pilliga Forest bushfire</a>

The air quality in Australia's East Coast city of Sydney plummeted to levels comparable to New Delhi, the Indian capital and one of the world's most polluted metropolises.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400186-untitled-design-7.png?imwidth=3840" /> 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-maharashtra-greenlights-new-city-called-third-mumbai-671386">India: Maharashtra greenlights new city called 'Third Mumbai': Report</a>

The government of the western Indian state of Maharashtra has given a go-ahead for a broad proposal to create a new city, 'Third Mumbai'. Mumbai, state capital of Maharashtra, has been a major financial centre in the peninsula for over a century.&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400225-navi-mumbai.jpg?imwidth=3840" /> 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-unimaginable-australia-pacer-mitchell-starc-goes-to-kkr-for-a-mammoth-inr-2475-crore-671302">IPL 2024 Auction: UNIMAGINABLE! Australia pacer Mitchell Starc goes to KKR for a MAMMOTH INR 24.75 crore</a>

After Pat Cummins broke the bank and went for a whopping INR 20.50 crore&nbsp;in IPL 2024 auction, in Dubai on Tuesday (Dec 19), his compatriot Mitchell Starc bettered the record as he was swooped up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400180-mixcollage-19-dec-2023-03-50-pm-7721.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-and-delhis-air-quality-on-par-after-duck-creek-pilliga-forest-bushfire-671326">Marvel at crossroads: What's the future plans after Jonathan Majors' exit</a>

Marvel Studios has severed ties with Jonathan Majors following his conviction for assaulting and harassing Grace Jabbari, his former girlfriend. The actor, renowned for portraying the supervillain&nbsp;Kang the Conqueror&nbsp;in the Disney+ series&nbsp;Loki, had been a key figure in Marvel's Phase Five plans.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400228-jonathan-majors-mcu.png?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-judge-criticises-trumps-expert-witness-charged-1350-per-hour-on-the-case-671436">Watch |&nbsp;US judge criticises Trump's expert witness, charged $1350 per hour on the case</a>

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Days after announcing that Russia was expanding its troops size, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 19) said the country was also upgrading its nuclear arsenal.

Days after announcing that Russia was expanding its troops size, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 19) said the country was also upgrading its nuclear arsenal. In other news, the death toll due to the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that jolted the northwest part of China had risen to 126, as of the last update. Click on headlines to read more: Vladimir Putin says Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal amid 'hybrid war' with West Vladimir Putin told the conference of senior defence officials on Tuesday (Dec 19) that Russia is upgrading its nuclear arsenal amid its ongoing war against Ukraine and Western fears of nuclear conflict. PM Modi speaks to Israel's Netanyahu, urges for 'early restoration of peace' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Dec 19) spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and highlighted New Delhi's stand in favour of ceasefire and "early restoration of peace". China: Death toll rises to at least 126 after earthquake in Gansu province At least 126 people have been killed after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county in northwest China, reported the country’s state media, on Tuesday (Dec 19). Iceland volcano is ejecting enough lava to fill olympic swimming pool in 20 seconds A volcano in Iceland erupted on Tuesday (Dec 19) sending molten lava in the sky. The eruption in southwest Iceland took place after the region rumbled due to earthquakes for weeks. Teachers in UK don't have to address students by their preferred pronouns under new guidance Under the new guidance released by the UK Department of Education, teachers in the country have been told they do not have to address students by their chosen pronouns. Google to cough up $700mn as part of Play Store antitrust settlement, week after defeat against Epic Games Tech giant Google's parent company Alphabet has agreed to pay $700 million to settle an antitrust case with US states and consumers filed in federal court on Monday (Dec 18). Sydney and Delhi’s air quality on par after Duck Creek, Pilliga Forest bushfire The air quality in Australia's East Coast city of Sydney plummeted to levels comparable to New Delhi, the Indian capital and one of the world's most polluted metropolises. India: Maharashtra greenlights new city called 'Third Mumbai': Report The government of the western Indian state of Maharashtra has given a go-ahead for a broad proposal to create a new city, 'Third Mumbai'. Mumbai, state capital of Maharashtra, has been a major financial centre in the peninsula for over a century. IPL 2024 Auction: UNIMAGINABLE! Australia pacer Mitchell Starc goes to KKR for a MAMMOTH INR 24.75 crore After Pat Cummins broke the bank and went for a whopping INR 20.50 crore in IPL 2024 auction, in Dubai on Tuesday (Dec 19), his compatriot Mitchell Starc bettered the record as he was swooped up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Marvel at crossroads: What's the future plans after Jonathan Majors' exit Marvel Studios has severed ties with Jonathan Majors following his conviction for assaulting and harassing Grace Jabbari, his former girlfriend. The actor, renowned for portraying the supervillain Kang the Conqueror in the Disney+ series Loki, had been a key figure in Marvel's Phase Five plans. Watch | US judge criticises Trump's expert witness, charged $1350 per hour on the case ×

Top 10 world news: Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal, China earthquake death toll mounts, and more

Senegal aims to decongest its prisons by placing some detainees under electronic monitoring with angle tags. It is the first country in West Africa to adopt this method which involves temporarily freeing some inmates - mainly those awaiting trial - and monitoring them as their cases are processed.

Senegal instals foot gadgets to curb prison crowding | World of Africa

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