Israel's offensive continues in Gaza and the cost of war is increasing in terms of lives being lost and families being destroyed. An entire generation of children is suffering endlessly out of the 18,800 people killed in Gaza so far 70% of them have been women and children.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel's offensive kills 19,000 Gazans

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement has engaged in Oman-mediated talks with international parties about its operations in the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea. This is according to a Houthi spokesperson. This follows a series of attacks on ships by the militia group.

Houthi Red Sea attack: Houthi's willing to de-escalate activity in Red Sea

At least 13 people died in an Argentinian city after the roof of a sports club collapsed due to a powerful storm.&nbsp;According to the AFP news agency, winds of more than 140 kilometres (87 miles) per hour were recorded in the city, parts of which lost power.

The incident happened at 8 pm (local time) on Saturday (Dec 16) in the port city of Bahia Blanca. According to reports, a roller-skating display was taking place in the club at the time of the tragedy.

<h2>Local mayor confirms deaths&nbsp;</h2>

"It is with great pain that I have to say that the deaths of 13 people have so far been confirmed," local mayor Federico Susbielles said on social media X.

“We ask the public to take extreme care and not travel on public roads."

He added: "Faced with the catastrophe in the city, the entire government team, together with the police, civil defence, traffic chiefs, firefighters and the army, are working to assist those who need it."

“Unfortunately, the emergency service confirms the death of 13 people in the Bahiense del Norte club,” the municipality said in a statement, adding that firefighters were working at the site where people remained trapped under rubble.

<h2>Videos shared on X show the extent of the storm&nbsp;</h2>

Videos shared on social media showed shocking storm conditions, with locals describing it as a "tornado".

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TORNADO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TORNADO</a> EN BAHÍA BLANCA DEJA 13 MUERTOS‼️‼️ 
 
📣UN TORNADO NIVEL F1, PROVOCÓ GRANDES DESTROZOS EN LA CIUDAD DE BAHÍA BLANCA, CAUSANDO LA MUERTE DE 13 PERSONAS. <a href="https://t.co/D2bd3XtAJD">pic.twitter.com/D2bd3XtAJD</a>
— La Rioja Informa (@lariojainforma1) <a href="https://twitter.com/lariojainforma1/status/1736235977239076923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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19:30h| Tormenta muy fuerte en Bahia Blanca. La ciudad esta sin luz <a href="https://t.co/1YMSojHSi5">pic.twitter.com/1YMSojHSi5</a>
— Cindy 🌪 (@cindymfernandez) <a href="https://twitter.com/cindymfernandez/status/1736154898616525091?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Argentina President Javier Milei also expressed condolences to the family of the victims.

"I deeply regret the victims that this storm caused in Bahía Blanca and I send my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected. We will provide information as we have it. We ask everyone who is in risk areas to stay in their homes," he said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-curious-case-of-alex-batty-british-teen-returns-to-uk-after-he-went-missing-six-years-ago-670487">Explained | Curious case of Alex Batty: British teen returns to UK six years after he went missing</a>

His office added in a tweet: "The national government is monitoring the delicate situation generated by the electrical storm in the province of Buenos Aires."

“We recommend that the population check the meteorological service and, if necessary, stay in their homes during the early hours of the morning."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-georgia-teacher-arrested-over-threatening-to-behead-antisemitic-student-670541">US: Georgia teacher arrested over threatening to behead ‘antisemitic’ student</a>

“The wind gusts exceeded 150kmh (93mph) in Bahía Blanca and an orange alert is in place in different areas of the province of Buenos Aires."

“At this moment, the National Cabinet is working together with the provincial and municipal authorities to assist the victims and control the damage.”

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 13 people died in an Argentinian city after the roof of a sports club collapsed due to a powerful storm. According to the AFP news agency, winds of more than 140 kilometres (87 miles) per hour were recorded in the city, parts of which lost power.

At least 13 people died in an Argentinian city after the roof of a sports club collapsed due to a powerful storm. According to the AFP news agency, winds of more than 140 kilometres (87 miles) per hour were recorded in the city, parts of which lost power. The incident happened at 8 pm (local time) on Saturday (Dec 16) in the port city of Bahia Blanca. According to reports, a roller-skating display was taking place in the club at the time of the tragedy. Local mayor confirms deaths "It is with great pain that I have to say that the deaths of 13 people have so far been confirmed," local mayor Federico Susbielles said on social media X. “We ask the public to take extreme care and not travel on public roads." He added: "Faced with the catastrophe in the city, the entire government team, together with the police, civil defence, traffic chiefs, firefighters and the army, are working to assist those who need it." “Unfortunately, the emergency service confirms the death of 13 people in the Bahiense del Norte club,” the municipality said in a statement, adding that firefighters were working at the site where people remained trapped under rubble. Videos shared on X show the extent of the storm Videos shared on social media showed shocking storm conditions, with locals describing it as a "tornado". #TORNADO EN BAHÍA BLANCA DEJA 13 MUERTOS‼️‼️ 📣UN TORNADO NIVEL F1, PROVOCÓ GRANDES DESTROZOS EN LA CIUDAD DE BAHÍA BLANCA, CAUSANDO LA MUERTE DE 13 PERSONAS. pic.twitter.com/D2bd3XtAJD — La Rioja Informa (@lariojainforma1) December 17, 2023 × 19:30h| Tormenta muy fuerte en Bahia Blanca. La ciudad esta sin luz pic.twitter.com/1YMSojHSi5 — Cindy 🌪 (@cindymfernandez) December 16, 2023 × Argentina President Javier Milei also expressed condolences to the family of the victims. "I deeply regret the victims that this storm caused in Bahía Blanca and I send my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected. We will provide information as we have it. We ask everyone who is in risk areas to stay in their homes," he said in a statement. Also read | Explained | Curious case of Alex Batty: British teen returns to UK six years after he went missing His office added in a tweet: "The national government is monitoring the delicate situation generated by the electrical storm in the province of Buenos Aires." “We recommend that the population check the meteorological service and, if necessary, stay in their homes during the early hours of the morning." Also read | US: Georgia teacher arrested over threatening to behead ‘antisemitic’ student “The wind gusts exceeded 150kmh (93mph) in Bahía Blanca and an orange alert is in place in different areas of the province of Buenos Aires." “At this moment, the National Cabinet is working together with the provincial and municipal authorities to assist the victims and control the damage.” (With inputs from agencies)

13 die after powerful storm causes sports club’s roof to collapse in Argentina

Serbians on Sunday (Dec 17) are voting in the country's parliamentary elections, the tenth such voting exercise&nbsp;since the 1998-1999 Kosovo conflict that led to the creation of Republic of Kosovo with partial international recognition.&nbsp;

The voting is taking place&nbsp;six months after mass shootings left the country in shock and sparked protests against pro-Russian President Aleksandar Vucic. The parliamentary and local elections are taking place simultaneously in Serbia.

The early elections were called after President&nbsp;Aleksandar Vucic dissolved the parliament in capital Belgrade in November&nbsp;and called an early election on December 17. The move was widely described as Vucic's bid to&nbsp;cement his authority as he works out how to normalise ties with Kosovo, the main precondition for EU membership.

<h2>Serbia elections 2023: Context and Implications</h2>

President Vucic is not on the ballot in Sunday's parliamentary and local elections. The contest, however, is still being seen as a referendum on his government. &nbsp;

Vucic's populist Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) has a double-digit lead over the leading opposition coalition, according to a latest poll by Ipsos.

Another pre-election opinion poll by the Nova Srpska Politicka Misao website placed the SNS and its alliance Serbia Must Not Stop in the lead with 39.8 per cent&nbsp;of the vote, followed by Serbia Against Violence alliance at 25.6 per cent and the Socialist Party (SPS) of outgoing Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, a long-time SNS coalition partner, with 8.9 per cent.

<h2>Capital Belgrade remains out of President Vucic's reach so far</h2>

The SNS faces hard-fought municipal races in the capital Belgrade, due to a loose coalition of opposition parties and candidates running under the "Serbia Against Violence" banner.&nbsp;

The 'Serbia Against Violence'&nbsp;movement was formed in the wake of back-to-back mass shootings earlier this year that spurred hundreds of thousands to take to the streets.&nbsp;

The rallies quickly morphed into anti-government protests that lasted months.

"It's not about me leaving power, but about them destroying everything," Vucic&nbsp;told supporters at a recent rally. &nbsp;

"It would take us 20 years to fix everything... That's why we'll beat them more convincingly than ever."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/serbias-vucic-dissolves-parliament-sets-snap-vote-for-dec-17-653968">Serbia's President Vucic dissolves parliament, sets snap election for Dec 17</a>

As polls opened at 7:00 AM local time (0600 GMT), lines had already formed in the capital Belgrade.

"I came early to support our president, he must continue his work," said Stojan Milenkovic, a 67-year-old retired resident.&nbsp;

However others were hoping that the contest would bring a fresh change to the country's political scene.&nbsp;

"I hope the results will put an end to the devastation of our capital," Milica Pavkov, a 28-year-old cashier, told AFP.

Also watch |&nbsp;Why are tensions on the rise between Serbia &amp; Kosovo? | World at War

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Since the beginning of Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022, Serbia has become a hub for Russian émigrés and businesses trying to keep a foothold in Europe amid western sanctions.

(With inputs from agencies)

Serbians on Sunday (Dec 17) are voting in the country's parliamentary elections, the tenth such voting exercise since the 1998-1999 Kosovo conflict that led to the creation of Republic of Kosovo with partial international recognition.

Serbians on Sunday (Dec 17) are voting in the country's parliamentary elections, the tenth such voting exercise since the 1998-1999 Kosovo conflict that led to the creation of Republic of Kosovo with partial international recognition. The voting is taking place six months after mass shootings left the country in shock and sparked protests against pro-Russian President Aleksandar Vucic. The parliamentary and local elections are taking place simultaneously in Serbia. The early elections were called after President Aleksandar Vucic dissolved the parliament in capital Belgrade in November and called an early election on December 17. The move was widely described as Vucic's bid to cement his authority as he works out how to normalise ties with Kosovo, the main precondition for EU membership. Serbia elections 2023: Context and Implications President Vucic is not on the ballot in Sunday's parliamentary and local elections. The contest, however, is still being seen as a referendum on his government. Vucic's populist Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) has a double-digit lead over the leading opposition coalition, according to a latest poll by Ipsos. Another pre-election opinion poll by the Nova Srpska Politicka Misao website placed the SNS and its alliance Serbia Must Not Stop in the lead with 39.8 per cent of the vote, followed by Serbia Against Violence alliance at 25.6 per cent and the Socialist Party (SPS) of outgoing Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, a long-time SNS coalition partner, with 8.9 per cent. Capital Belgrade remains out of President Vucic's reach so far The SNS faces hard-fought municipal races in the capital Belgrade, due to a loose coalition of opposition parties and candidates running under the "Serbia Against Violence" banner. The 'Serbia Against Violence' movement was formed in the wake of back-to-back mass shootings earlier this year that spurred hundreds of thousands to take to the streets. The rallies quickly morphed into anti-government protests that lasted months. "It's not about me leaving power, but about them destroying everything," Vucic told supporters at a recent rally. "It would take us 20 years to fix everything... That's why we'll beat them more convincingly than ever." Also read | Serbia's President Vucic dissolves parliament, sets snap election for Dec 17 As polls opened at 7:00 AM local time (0600 GMT), lines had already formed in the capital Belgrade. "I came early to support our president, he must continue his work," said Stojan Milenkovic, a 67-year-old retired resident. However others were hoping that the contest would bring a fresh change to the country's political scene. "I hope the results will put an end to the devastation of our capital," Milica Pavkov, a 28-year-old cashier, told AFP. Also watch | Why are tensions on the rise between Serbia & Kosovo? | World at War × Since the beginning of Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022, Serbia has become a hub for Russian émigrés and businesses trying to keep a foothold in Europe amid western sanctions. (With inputs from agencies)

Serbia: President Aleksandar Vucic's grip on power goes to test in snap polls

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during his address at the Rotary Institute 2023 event in Bengaluru, said that Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik was fascinated by India's space project and also showed interest in India-made drones.

He met Oman Sultan on Friday and said that he values his "guidance for further deepening our Strategic Partnership."

In a post shared on X, Jaishankar stated, "Honoured to call on His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik of Oman as he begins his State visit. Value his guidance for further deepening of our Strategic Partnership."

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Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik was fascinated by India's space project &amp; interested in Indian drones, says EAM Jaishankar <a href="https://t.co/M3kvTHdwLQ">pic.twitter.com/M3kvTHdwLQ</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1736339287396983126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi in a statement said that Sultan Haitham's visit to India establishes a major milestone that depends primarily upon historical relations and also opens the road for a fresh, positive stage in developing bilateral ties, as per Oman News Agency reports.

The Oman Foreign Minister said that the Sultan's visit underlines the strength of bilateral relations between both countries.

Badr further said that the visit also showcased a joint commitment to bolster cooperation that arises from the long-standing foundations of friendship, cultural and economic exchange and continuous interaction between the peoples of the two friendly nations, news agency ANI reported citing the Oman News Agency.

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>

The Oman Sultan arrived in India's capital city, New Delhi, on Friday (Dec 15) on a three-day visit. He was received by the Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, at the Delhi Airport.

India's President Droupadi Murmu hosted a banquet in the honour of Oman Sultan&nbsp;at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday (Dec 16).

<h2>PM Modi and Oman Sultan discuss ways to deepen cooperation</h2>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Oman Sultan, on Saturday (Dec 16) held a meeting in New Delhi where the two leaders discussed ways to heighten cooperation in commerce, culture, defence, and innovation.&nbsp;

They also reviewed the full range of bilateral ties.

Taking to his official X account after the meeting with the Sultan, PM Modi said, "Had an excellent meeting with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman. Reviewing the full range of bilateral ties, we discussed ways to deepen cooperation in commerce, culture, defence, innovation and more."

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Had an excellent meeting with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman. Reviewing the full range of bilateral ties, we discussed ways to deepen cooperation in commerce, culture, defence, innovation and more. <a href="https://t.co/l42DgqwkmE">pic.twitter.com/l42DgqwkmE</a>
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&nbsp;

PM Modi and Haitham bin Tariq, during the delegation-level talks, adopted a new 'India-Oman joint vision, a partnership for the future' under which both countries will work in ten different areas.

Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr said the Sultan's meetings with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi affirm the presence of substantial cooperation that emphasises Oman-India's future perspectives on prioritising engagements in the fields of economy, technology, energy, trade and investment.

He said: "The move will also help achieve our joint goals of sustainable economic development that generates benefits to the two countries and the region at large."

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during his address at the Rotary Institute 2023 event in Bengaluru, said that Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik was fascinated by India's space project and also showed interest in India-made drones.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during his address at the Rotary Institute 2023 event in Bengaluru, said that Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik was fascinated by India's space project and also showed interest in India-made drones. He met Oman Sultan on Friday and said that he values his "guidance for further deepening our Strategic Partnership." In a post shared on X, Jaishankar stated, "Honoured to call on His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik of Oman as he begins his State visit. Value his guidance for further deepening of our Strategic Partnership." Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik was fascinated by India's space project & interested in Indian drones, says EAM Jaishankar pic.twitter.com/M3kvTHdwLQ — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 17, 2023 × Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi in a statement said that Sultan Haitham's visit to India establishes a major milestone that depends primarily upon historical relations and also opens the road for a fresh, positive stage in developing bilateral ties, as per Oman News Agency reports. The Oman Foreign Minister said that the Sultan's visit underlines the strength of bilateral relations between both countries. Badr further said that the visit also showcased a joint commitment to bolster cooperation that arises from the long-standing foundations of friendship, cultural and economic exchange and continuous interaction between the peoples of the two friendly nations, news agency ANI reported citing the Oman News Agency. Also read: US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report The Oman Sultan arrived in India's capital city, New Delhi, on Friday (Dec 15) on a three-day visit. He was received by the Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, at the Delhi Airport. India's President Droupadi Murmu hosted a banquet in the honour of Oman Sultan at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday (Dec 16). PM Modi and Oman Sultan discuss ways to deepen cooperation Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Oman Sultan, on Saturday (Dec 16) held a meeting in New Delhi where the two leaders discussed ways to heighten cooperation in commerce, culture, defence, and innovation. They also reviewed the full range of bilateral ties. Taking to his official X account after the meeting with the Sultan, PM Modi said, "Had an excellent meeting with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman. Reviewing the full range of bilateral ties, we discussed ways to deepen cooperation in commerce, culture, defence, innovation and more." Had an excellent meeting with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman. Reviewing the full range of bilateral ties, we discussed ways to deepen cooperation in commerce, culture, defence, innovation and more. pic.twitter.com/l42DgqwkmE — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2023 × PM Modi and Haitham bin Tariq, during the delegation-level talks, adopted a new 'India-Oman joint vision, a partnership for the future' under which both countries will work in ten different areas. Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr said the Sultan's meetings with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi affirm the presence of substantial cooperation that emphasises Oman-India's future perspectives on prioritising engagements in the fields of economy, technology, energy, trade and investment. He said: "The move will also help achieve our joint goals of sustainable economic development that generates benefits to the two countries and the region at large." (With inputs from agencies)

Oman's Sultan fascinated by India's space project, interested in India-made drones, says Jaishankar

Tang Xiao’ou, the billionaire founder of Hong Kong-listed Chinese artificial intelligence giant SenseTime, died late on Friday, the company said in a statement on Saturday. He was 55 years old.

China: AI giant SenseTime founder Tang Xiao'ou dies at 55

Israel is facing immense pressure from its citizens to bring hostage negotiations back to the table. Anger and sorrow have mounted in Israel after the IDF admitted to killing three hostages on Friday. Thousands gathered at Israel's headquarters in Tel Aviv to protest the Israeli military's actions and call on to Netanyahu government to do more to release the hostages in Gaza. To know more watch this interview with Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy.

Israel-Hamas war: Freed hostages urge Israel to re-instate hostage negotiations

A new report published by a top American media house has unearthed a mountain of Hamas' finances that Israeli Intelligence Mossad had acknowledged going back to 2018 yet chose to ignore. These very funds were lightly used by Hamas in preparation for the deadly attacks on October 7th. Watch to know more.

Report: Israel knew of Hamas' terror financing as Mossad uncovered Hamas ledgers in 2018

A US school teacher was arrested for reportedly threatening to behead a student after she raised objections over the Israeli flag in her classroom. Benjamin Reese, the teacher, has been charged with terror threats and cruelty to children, reported ABC News. Reese works as a seventh-grade Social Studies teacher for the Warner Robins Middle School.

The Houston County Sheriff's Office said that the incident was reported by another teacher at the school, who saw Reese yelling at the students on Dec 7.

"I'll kick your a**! I should cut your mother*****g head off,” said the 51-year-old Georgia teacher to students, as reported by the other teacher.

<h2>Teacher-student conversation, as per police report</h2>

According to police report, the student had “pointed at the Israeli flag and told Reese that she has a question about it."

The student reportedly asked why the Israeli flag was hanging in their classroom, to which the teacher responded by saying "that he was Jewish and has family members that still live there.”

The student found the flag offensive as “Israelis were killing the Palestinians,” as per the police.&nbsp;

It was unclear whether the student was referring to the Israeli actions in Gaza in the ongoing war against Hamas.

The incident report cited the student as saying that the teacher "was trying to keep her from leaving and demanded to know who she was and who was her first-period teacher."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/designate-india-as-country-of-particular-concern-us-watchdog-tells-biden-administration-670429">Also read:&nbsp;Pannun murder plot: US watchdog urges Biden to designate India as `country of particular concern`</a>

Neighbouring classes also heard the argument, when Reese reportedly yelled, "You don't make an antisemitic comment like that to a Jew."

A report in The Guardian cited a police account, wherein Reese was quoted as saying to the student, "I will drag her a** into the parking lot, slit her f***** throat and kill her.”

<h2>Concerns raised by faculty members</h2>

The incident led to many students and faculty members raising concerns. However, when Reese was confronted about it, he simply denied speaking to anyone in the hallway. Later, he accused the student of being “antisemitic”.

Watch:&nbsp;Iranian video shows US warships leaving Gulf waters

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A CCTV footage was recovered by police from the hallway but it had no audio.

Reese was later arrested and has been released on bond.

(With inputs from agencies)

A US school teacher was arrested for reportedly threatening to behead a student after she raised objections over the Israeli flag in her classroom. Benjamin Reese, the teacher, has been charged with terror threats and cruelty to children, reported ABC News.

A US school teacher was arrested for reportedly threatening to behead a student after she raised objections over the Israeli flag in her classroom. Benjamin Reese, the teacher, has been charged with terror threats and cruelty to children, reported ABC News. Reese works as a seventh-grade Social Studies teacher for the Warner Robins Middle School. The Houston County Sheriff's Office said that the incident was reported by another teacher at the school, who saw Reese yelling at the students on Dec 7. "I'll kick your a**! I should cut your mother*****g head off,” said the 51-year-old Georgia teacher to students, as reported by the other teacher. Teacher-student conversation, as per police report According to police report, the student had “pointed at the Israeli flag and told Reese that she has a question about it." The student reportedly asked why the Israeli flag was hanging in their classroom, to which the teacher responded by saying "that he was Jewish and has family members that still live there.” The student found the flag offensive as “Israelis were killing the Palestinians,” as per the police. It was unclear whether the student was referring to the Israeli actions in Gaza in the ongoing war against Hamas. The incident report cited the student as saying that the teacher "was trying to keep her from leaving and demanded to know who she was and who was her first-period teacher." Also read: Pannun murder plot: US watchdog urges Biden to designate India as `country of particular concern` Neighbouring classes also heard the argument, when Reese reportedly yelled, "You don't make an antisemitic comment like that to a Jew." A report in The Guardian cited a police account, wherein Reese was quoted as saying to the student, "I will drag her a** into the parking lot, slit her f***** throat and kill her.” Concerns raised by faculty members The incident led to many students and faculty members raising concerns. However, when Reese was confronted about it, he simply denied speaking to anyone in the hallway. Later, he accused the student of being “antisemitic”. Watch: Iranian video shows US warships leaving Gulf waters × A CCTV footage was recovered by police from the hallway but it had no audio. Reese was later arrested and has been released on bond. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Georgia teacher arrested over threatening to behead ‘antisemitic’ student

Israel is facing immense pressure from its citizens to bring hostage negotiations back to the table. Anger and sorrow have mounted in Israel after the IDF admitted to killing three hostages on Friday. Thousands gathered at Israel's headquarters in Tel Aviv to protest the Israeli military's actions and call on to Netanyahu government to do more to release the hostages in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war: Protesters rally against Israel government to hasten hostage release

Israel's ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip has spilled over into the Red Sea. The Houthis have ramped up their attacks on Israeli-affiliated ships or any ships that are suspected of carrying cargo to Israeli ports.

Red Sea threats amid Israel-Hamas war

Three masons who were carrying out repairs of the ancient walls around the Old City of Kairouan in Tunisia — a UNESCO world heritage — died after a section of the wall collapsed.

The incident happened on Saturday (Dec 16) after a 30m section of the wall near the Gate of the Floggers crashed to the ground.

The Kairouan medina, which is surrounded by massive city walls, was under renovation when an accident took place according to Tunisia's Civil Protection.

“A team was carrying out restoration work” on the 3km (two mile) long wall that surrounds the Old City, department spokesperson Moez Tria told AFP, adding that the accident “could be linked to heavy rains in the area in recent days”.

Two more workers were said to be injured and have suffered fractures.

<h2>Site closed for public&nbsp;</h2>

Tria said a perimeter had been set up to stop people from walking under part of the wall which is still at risk of further collapse.

Located in the centre of Tunisia in a plain at an almost equal distance from the sea and the mountain, Kairouan city was founded in 670 AD, and is one of North Africa's holiest cities and a leading tourist attraction.

Its rich architectural heritage includes the Great Mosque, with its marble and porphyry columns, and the 9th-century Mosque of the Three Gates.

<h2>Historical significance&nbsp;</h2>

It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, and is home to the Mosque of the Three Doors, the oldest known mosque with a sculpted façade.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/13-die-after-powerful-storm-causes-roof-of-sports-club-to-collapse-in-argentina-670552">13 die after powerful storm causes roof of sports club to collapse in Argentina</a>

The city was also considered the capital of the Muslim world in North Africa for four centuries, before Tunis was chosen as Tunisia's political capital in the 12th century.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-youth-arrested-on-terrorism-charges-for-targeting-jewish-community-670521">Canadian youth arrested on terrorism charges for targeting Jewish community</a>

According to UNESCO, the mosque is "an architectural masterpiece that served as a model for several other Maghreban mosques".

Kairouan bears unique witness to the first centuries of this civilisation and its architectural and urban development, UNESCO says in its website.

(With inputs from agencies)

Three masons who were carrying out repairs of the ancient walls around the Old City of Kairouan in Tunisia — a UNESCO world heritage — died after a section of the wall collapsed.

Three masons who were carrying out repairs of the ancient walls around the Old City of Kairouan in Tunisia — a UNESCO world heritage — died after a section of the wall collapsed. The incident happened on Saturday (Dec 16) after a 30m section of the wall near the Gate of the Floggers crashed to the ground. The Kairouan medina, which is surrounded by massive city walls, was under renovation when an accident took place according to Tunisia's Civil Protection. “A team was carrying out restoration work” on the 3km (two mile) long wall that surrounds the Old City, department spokesperson Moez Tria told AFP, adding that the accident “could be linked to heavy rains in the area in recent days”. Two more workers were said to be injured and have suffered fractures. Site closed for public Tria said a perimeter had been set up to stop people from walking under part of the wall which is still at risk of further collapse. Located in the centre of Tunisia in a plain at an almost equal distance from the sea and the mountain, Kairouan city was founded in 670 AD, and is one of North Africa's holiest cities and a leading tourist attraction. Its rich architectural heritage includes the Great Mosque, with its marble and porphyry columns, and the 9th-century Mosque of the Three Gates. Historical significance It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, and is home to the Mosque of the Three Doors, the oldest known mosque with a sculpted façade. Also read | 13 die after powerful storm causes roof of sports club to collapse in Argentina The city was also considered the capital of the Muslim world in North Africa for four centuries, before Tunis was chosen as Tunisia's political capital in the 12th century. Also read | Canadian youth arrested on terrorism charges for targeting Jewish community According to UNESCO, the mosque is "an architectural masterpiece that served as a model for several other Maghreban mosques". Kairouan bears unique witness to the first centuries of this civilisation and its architectural and urban development, UNESCO says in its website. (With inputs from agencies)

Three killed after ancient wall at UNESCO world heritage site in Tunisia collapses

Reports have now emerged that an agent of Israel's intelligence agency known as Mossad has been executed in Iran on Saturday. The agent was accused of working with foreign intelligence services and was charged with releasing classified information.

Iran executes Mossad spy who was charged with releasing classified information

A Canadian youth was charged and arrested with terrorism related offences in connection with antisemitism activity, which has been witnessing&nbsp;a spike across the world after the Israel-Hamas war.

The police arrested the youth, whose information has not been shared citing the accused’s age, on Friday (Dec 15) for facilitating terrorist activity by communicating instructional material related to an explosive substance, CTV News reported.

The accused is further charged with knowingly instructing a person to carry out terrorist activity against "Jewish persons”, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said in a press release.

Noting the rise of using the internet in terrorism-related activities, the police said it has arrested five young people on such offences since June 2023.

The police said that these activities are especially prevalent among young people, urging the adults in authority positions to watch for early warning signs of radicalisation.

<h2>Mayor asks police to tighten security around Jewish institutions&nbsp;</h2>

“Those include dehumanisation of others, extreme anti-government attitudes and clear statements of intention to carry out violent acts,” the statement added.

Reacting to the development,&nbsp;Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe expressed shock over the incident and asked the police to tighten security around synagogues and other Jewish institutions.

“I was shocked to learn the details of a planned attack against Ottawa's Jewish community,” Sutcliffe said on X.

“There has been a rise in antisemitism in Ottawa in recent weeks.”

He added he was grateful that strong investigative work by the RCMP and Ottawa police was able to avert an attack. He said police would continue to patrol synagogues and other Jewish institutions.

<h2>Rise of hate crimes in Canada after Oct 7 attack</h2>

The Canadian authorities have been witnessing a rise in hate crimes against Jewish and Muslim communities since the October 7 deadly surprise attack in Israel by Hamas, prompting that country's military offensive in Gaza.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostages-mistakenly-killed-by-idf-were-waving-white-flag-when-troops-shot-them-reveals-initial-probe-670436">Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by IDF were waving white flag, finds probe</a>

Many metropolitan cities like Toronto, which is house to Canada's largest Jewish population and Muslim population, have reported almost double the number of hate crimes in October compared to the same period last year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-60-including-women-and-children-drown-after-shipwreck-off-libya-says-iom-670455">More than 60 people, including women, kids, drown in shipwreck off Libya: IOM</a>

The city's police chief, Myron Demkiw, said there were 15 reported antisemitic hate crimes for the period of Oct&nbsp;7 to 25 compared to seven in the same time frame in 2022 and three in 2021.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Canadian youth was charged and arrested with terrorism related offences in connection with antisemitism activity, which has been witnessing a spike across the world after the Israel-Hamas war.

A Canadian youth was charged and arrested with terrorism related offences in connection with antisemitism activity, which has been witnessing a spike across the world after the Israel-Hamas war. The police arrested the youth, whose information has not been shared citing the accused’s age, on Friday (Dec 15) for facilitating terrorist activity by communicating instructional material related to an explosive substance, CTV News reported. The accused is further charged with knowingly instructing a person to carry out terrorist activity against "Jewish persons”, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said in a press release. Noting the rise of using the internet in terrorism-related activities, the police said it has arrested five young people on such offences since June 2023. The police said that these activities are especially prevalent among young people, urging the adults in authority positions to watch for early warning signs of radicalisation. Mayor asks police to tighten security around Jewish institutions “Those include dehumanisation of others, extreme anti-government attitudes and clear statements of intention to carry out violent acts,” the statement added. Reacting to the development, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe expressed shock over the incident and asked the police to tighten security around synagogues and other Jewish institutions. “I was shocked to learn the details of a planned attack against Ottawa's Jewish community,” Sutcliffe said on X. “There has been a rise in antisemitism in Ottawa in recent weeks.” He added he was grateful that strong investigative work by the RCMP and Ottawa police was able to avert an attack. He said police would continue to patrol synagogues and other Jewish institutions. Rise of hate crimes in Canada after Oct 7 attack The Canadian authorities have been witnessing a rise in hate crimes against Jewish and Muslim communities since the October 7 deadly surprise attack in Israel by Hamas, prompting that country's military offensive in Gaza. Also read | Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by IDF were waving white flag, finds probe Many metropolitan cities like Toronto, which is house to Canada's largest Jewish population and Muslim population, have reported almost double the number of hate crimes in October compared to the same period last year. Also read | More than 60 people, including women, kids, drown in shipwreck off Libya: IOM The city's police chief, Myron Demkiw, said there were 15 reported antisemitic hate crimes for the period of Oct 7 to 25 compared to seven in the same time frame in 2022 and three in 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian youth arrested on terrorism charges for targeting Jewish community

The last rights funeral for Kuwait's late Emir Nawaf Al Ahmad Al-Sabah took place today. The gulf country has announced 40 days of mourning and a three-day closure of all official departments. Tributes have been pouring in for the late Emir along with the message of condolences from world leaders for his successor and family.

Kuwait: Sheikh Mesha Al-Sabah named as the new Emir

Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials. This comes a day after major shipping firms announced that they would be avoiding the Suez Canal, a key trade route between Europe and Asia, a move which could potentially affect global trade.&nbsp;

<h2>Will US respond to Houthi attacks?</h2>

Over the last few weeks, the Yemen-based Houthis have launched a number of attacks against commercial ships passing through the Red Sea amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

The attacks have mostly been thwarted by the American forces in the region but given the rise of such incidents, the US may be planning to ramp up its forces to now retaliate.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Houthi Red Sea attacks: Iran warns against proposed US-backed Red Sea force

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The Pentagon has in recent days moved the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group from the Persian Gulf into the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Yemen, to support a potential US response to attacks, one of the American officials told Politico on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

The report citing officials also said that the US military has provided options to commanders to strike the Houthis. However, President Joe Biden’s administration is reluctant to respond to these attacks amid fear of provoking Iran.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Pentagon itself had reportedly recommended against it but given the significant uptick in attacks, US officials may be looking to change their tactics.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanker-in-bab-al-mandab-strait-attacked-by-missiles-from-houthi-controlled-yemen-gunmen-on-speedboats-669295">Tanker carrying jet fuel from India hit by missiles from Houthi-controlled Yemen, gunmen on speedboats</a>

National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is in the midst of a trip to the Middle East, said Houthis were a “material threat” to shipping and commerce in the region but the ultimate responsibility for the attacks lies with Iran.&nbsp;

<h2>Recent attacks</h2>

As the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages on, Houthis who have expressed support for the Palestinian militant group have issued multiple warnings saying that they would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned international shipping companies against dealing in Israeli ports.&nbsp;

On Saturday (Dec 16) morning, the US and United Kingdom navy vessels shot down suspected attack drones which were said to have been targeting shipping vessels.&nbsp;

American destroyer USS Carney shot down 14 one-way attack drones launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, said the US Central Command. HMS Diamond, a British destroyer, which was recently deployed in the Red Sea to help protect commercial shipping, also shot down one suspected Houthi drone.

This was a day after two cargo ships in the Red Sea had been attacked by missiles and drones fired from a Houthi-controlled part of Yemen. The attacks took place near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key route for global trade.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-confirms-houthis-hijacked-ship-in-red-sea-but-says-its-not-israeli-vessel-660542">IDF confirms Houthis hijacked India-bound ship in Red Sea, but says it's not Israeli vessel</a>

One ship was also attacked by a suspected Houthi drone but the Iran-backed group did not claim responsibility for it. “We are aware that something launched from a Houthi-controlled region of Yemen struck this vessel which was damaged, and there was a report of a fire,” a US military official told AFP referring to the drone attack.

<h2>Shipping firms to avoid Suez Canal&nbsp;</h2>

Major shipping firms, including MSC, the world’s biggest container shipping line, on Saturday said that they will avoid the Suez Canal in light of the attacks in the Red Sea.&nbsp;

Denmark’s AP Moller-Maersk, on Friday (Dec 15) said that they are pausing all its container shipments through Bab al-Mandab until further notice, Swiss-based MSC and French shipping group CMA CGM followed suit the next day.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials.

Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials. This comes a day after major shipping firms announced that they would be avoiding the Suez Canal, a key trade route between Europe and Asia, a move which could potentially affect global trade. Will US respond to Houthi attacks? Over the last few weeks, the Yemen-based Houthis have launched a number of attacks against commercial ships passing through the Red Sea amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. The attacks have mostly been thwarted by the American forces in the region but given the rise of such incidents, the US may be planning to ramp up its forces to now retaliate. WATCH | Houthi Red Sea attacks: Iran warns against proposed US-backed Red Sea force The Pentagon has in recent days moved the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group from the Persian Gulf into the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Yemen, to support a potential US response to attacks, one of the American officials told Politico on the condition of anonymity. The report citing officials also said that the US military has provided options to commanders to strike the Houthis. However, President Joe Biden’s administration is reluctant to respond to these attacks amid fear of provoking Iran. Earlier, the Pentagon itself had reportedly recommended against it but given the significant uptick in attacks, US officials may be looking to change their tactics. ALSO READ | Tanker carrying jet fuel from India hit by missiles from Houthi-controlled Yemen, gunmen on speedboats National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is in the midst of a trip to the Middle East, said Houthis were a “material threat” to shipping and commerce in the region but the ultimate responsibility for the attacks lies with Iran. Recent attacks As the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages on, Houthis who have expressed support for the Palestinian militant group have issued multiple warnings saying that they would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned international shipping companies against dealing in Israeli ports. On Saturday (Dec 16) morning, the US and United Kingdom navy vessels shot down suspected attack drones which were said to have been targeting shipping vessels. American destroyer USS Carney shot down 14 one-way attack drones launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, said the US Central Command. HMS Diamond, a British destroyer, which was recently deployed in the Red Sea to help protect commercial shipping, also shot down one suspected Houthi drone. This was a day after two cargo ships in the Red Sea had been attacked by missiles and drones fired from a Houthi-controlled part of Yemen. The attacks took place near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key route for global trade. ALSO READ | IDF confirms Houthis hijacked India-bound ship in Red Sea, but says it's not Israeli vessel One ship was also attacked by a suspected Houthi drone but the Iran-backed group did not claim responsibility for it. “We are aware that something launched from a Houthi-controlled region of Yemen struck this vessel which was damaged, and there was a report of a fire,” a US military official told AFP referring to the drone attack. Shipping firms to avoid Suez Canal Major shipping firms, including MSC, the world’s biggest container shipping line, on Saturday said that they will avoid the Suez Canal in light of the attacks in the Red Sea. Denmark’s AP Moller-Maersk, on Friday (Dec 15) said that they are pausing all its container shipments through Bab al-Mandab until further notice, Swiss-based MSC and French shipping group CMA CGM followed suit the next day. (With inputs from agencies)

US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report

Cutting across to India's Varanasi where Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived on a two-day visit. The Indian prime minister is on a visit to his parliamentary constituency to launch a slew of development and infrastructure projects.

After Surat visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Varanasi

Chinese spies reportedly used a right-wing Belgian politician as an intelligence asset for three years, the Financial Times reported earlier this week, highlighting China’s widespread influence operations overseas.

According to the report, Frank Creyelman, a former Belgian senator, was contacted by Daniel Woo, an officer in China’s Ministry of State Security to unduly influence discussions in Europe concerning Europe and Europe’s relations with the US and UK.

Woo also asked Creyelman to convince some lawmakers in the European parliament to speak in favour of China over some issues. 
 
“Our purpose is to divide the US-European relationship,” Woo wrote in a text message to Creyelman.

The relationship between the Chinese agent and his asset in Europe was revealed in secret documents obtained by the Financial Times, Der Spiegel and Le Monde from a western security agency.

<h2>Espionage efforts by China</h2>

The episode highlights continued efforts by the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) to engage in intelligence operations on foreign soil, spanning Canberra, Ottawa, London and even Washington DC.&nbsp;

The Western nations have repeatedly warned against such covert operations.

“The MSS has spent decades trying to shape politics and global discourse on China. Recruiting and manipulating academics, policymakers, business leaders and, as this case shows, even politicians is part of that,” Alex Joske, a consultant at McGrathNicol and the author of Spies and Lies, was quoted as saying by the Financial Times.

<h2>What tasks were given by Woo to Creyelman?</h2>

As per the report, Woo once entrusted Creyelman with “attacking Adrian Zenz”, a researcher who helped reveal how China detained hundreds of thousands of the mainly Muslim Uyghur minority in its far-western region of Xinjiang.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Exposed: How China is using LinkedIn for espionage

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On one occasion, he asked the former Belgian senator to disrupt a conference on Taiwan.

<h2>Modus Operandi</h2>

According to one CIA officer, cited by the FT, these Chinese agents especially focus on low-ranking officials having contacts with senior politicians.

“These lower-ranking politicians have established access to senior officials, regularly discuss with them sensitive topics and then, wittingly or unwittingly, share with the MSS what they have gleaned,” said the former CIA officer.

It was still unclear how the Chinese agent managed to hire Creyelman, the FT report said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spy-balloon-panda-diplomacy-us-china-ties-in-2023-entered-a-phase-of-21st-century-cold-war-669728">Also read:&nbsp;Spy balloon, Panda diplomacy: US-China ties in 2023 entered a phase of 21st century cold war</a>

However, experts noted that Europe had become a soft target of such covert and secret Chinese operations as “the consequences of being caught in Europe were less severe than in the US”.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese spies reportedly used a right-wing Belgian politician as an intelligence asset for three years, the Financial Times reported earlier this week, highlighting China’s widespread influence operations overseas.

Chinese spies reportedly used a right-wing Belgian politician as an intelligence asset for three years, the Financial Times reported earlier this week, highlighting China’s widespread influence operations overseas. According to the report, Frank Creyelman, a former Belgian senator, was contacted by Daniel Woo, an officer in China’s Ministry of State Security to unduly influence discussions in Europe concerning Europe and Europe’s relations with the US and UK. Woo also asked Creyelman to convince some lawmakers in the European parliament to speak in favour of China over some issues. “Our purpose is to divide the US-European relationship,” Woo wrote in a text message to Creyelman. The relationship between the Chinese agent and his asset in Europe was revealed in secret documents obtained by the Financial Times, Der Spiegel and Le Monde from a western security agency. Espionage efforts by China The episode highlights continued efforts by the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) to engage in intelligence operations on foreign soil, spanning Canberra, Ottawa, London and even Washington DC. The Western nations have repeatedly warned against such covert operations. “The MSS has spent decades trying to shape politics and global discourse on China. Recruiting and manipulating academics, policymakers, business leaders and, as this case shows, even politicians is part of that,” Alex Joske, a consultant at McGrathNicol and the author of Spies and Lies, was quoted as saying by the Financial Times. What tasks were given by Woo to Creyelman? As per the report, Woo once entrusted Creyelman with “attacking Adrian Zenz”, a researcher who helped reveal how China detained hundreds of thousands of the mainly Muslim Uyghur minority in its far-western region of Xinjiang. Watch: Gravitas: Exposed: How China is using LinkedIn for espionage × On one occasion, he asked the former Belgian senator to disrupt a conference on Taiwan. Modus Operandi According to one CIA officer, cited by the FT, these Chinese agents especially focus on low-ranking officials having contacts with senior politicians. “These lower-ranking politicians have established access to senior officials, regularly discuss with them sensitive topics and then, wittingly or unwittingly, share with the MSS what they have gleaned,” said the former CIA officer. It was still unclear how the Chinese agent managed to hire Creyelman, the FT report said. Also read: Spy balloon, Panda diplomacy: US-China ties in 2023 entered a phase of 21st century cold war However, experts noted that Europe had become a soft target of such covert and secret Chinese operations as “the consequences of being caught in Europe were less severe than in the US”. (With inputs from agencies)

How a Chinese spy used a European senator as intelligence asset for three years

Israel has continued its offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying that his country will not stop "until complete victory.

Israel has continued its offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying that his country will not stop "until complete victory." The conflict between the warring factions has been going on for more than two months. A report by The New York Times (NYT) on Saturday (Dec 16) said that Israel knew about Hamas' vast financial network in 2018 but took no action. As per the report, Israeli intelligence got its hands on secret documents that laid out details about what amounted to a private equity fund that Hamas used to finance its operations. The documents, which were pilfered from a senior Hamas official's computer, listed assets worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Click here to follow all updates on the Israel-Hamas war The documents were a potential roadmap for choking off Hamas’s money and thwarting its plans, the report said, adding that Israeli agents who obtained the records shared them inside their government and the United States. But nothing happened. A failure to prioritise financial intelligence NYT reported that Hamas controlled mining, chicken farming, and road-building companies in Sudan, twin skyscrapers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a property developer in Algeria, and a real estate firm listed on the Turkish stock exchange. However, none of these companies named in the documents faced Israeli or American sanctions. Both Israeli and American officials failed to prioritise financial intelligence which showed that tens of millions of dollars flowed from these companies to Hamas at the same time the Palestinian militant group was buying new weapons and preparing an attack. Also read: Israeli officials knew about Hamas' attack plan over a year ago, says report Officials said that this money helped Hamas build up its military infrastructure and also helped the group lay the groundwork for the Oct 7 attack. Speaking to the publication, Udi Levy, a former chief of Mossad’s economic warfare division, said that everyone talked about the failures of intelligence on the Oct 7 attack but none talked about the failure to stop the money. “It’s the money — the money — that allowed this,” Levy said. 'Netanyahu disinterested in Hamas' portfolio' Amid hopes that the discovery of Hamas' financial network would be disrupted by Israel and the US, the officials at the top levels of both governments were focused on imposing a series of sanctions on Iran. The NYT report said that neither country prioritised Hamas at the time. Israel believed at that time Hamas was more interested in governing than fighting. Udi Levy was part of a team investigating terror finances called Task Force Harpoon, which tracked Hamas' money network over many years. In 2015, the team found out what it called the militant group's secret investment portfolio. Levy told NYT that he recalled briefing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the portfolio. “But he didn’t care that much about it,” the former top Mossad official added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel knew about Hamas' financial network in 2018, but did nothing: Report

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said on Sunday (Dec 17) that France could play a "significant role" in avoiding a war in Lebanon as Israel has exchanged regular fire with Lebanese militants since its conflict with Hamas started on Oct 7.

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said on Sunday (Dec 17) that France could play a "significant role" in avoiding a war in Lebanon as Israel has exchanged regular fire with Lebanese militants since its conflict with Hamas started on Oct 7. Addressing a press conference in Tel Aviv with his French counterpart Catherine Colonna, Foreign Minister Cohen said, "France could play a positive and significant role to prevent a war in Lebanon." French Foreign Minister Colonna, meanwhile, told reporters that Paris was deeply concerned over the situation in the Gaza Strip. "Too many civilians are being killed," Colonna said while stressing that victims of Hamas' Oct 7 attack should not be forgotten. She is due to meet families of French hostages still held in Gaza and to call for an immediate and durable new humanitarian truce. Click here to follow all updates on Israel-Hamas war Since the Israel-Hamas war started, Israel and Lebanese militant groups, primarily Hezbollah have been in border skirmishes along the Israel-Lebanon border. Hezbollah backs Hamas and has said it is engaging in combat (with Israel) in support of the Palestinian militant group. Israeli soldier killed in Lebanese border The Israeli army said on Saturday that a soldier was killed and two others were wounded by a hostile aircraft on the Lebanese border. "Sergeant Major (reservist) Yehezkel Azaria, from Petah Tikva... fell during an operational activity in the Margaliot area, aged 53 at the time of his death," a statement from the army said. A military spokesperson told the news agency AFP that the attack was the result of an incursion by the hostile aircraft. The army reported the incursion earlier in the day, saying that air defences "intercepted a hostile aircraft that crossed from Lebanon into Israel." "An additional hostile aircraft that crossed from Lebanon was identified and fell in Margaliot... In response, IDF artillery is striking in Lebanon," the army statement added. Also read: Israel knew about Hamas' financial network in 2018, but did nothing: Report This attack comes a day after Lebanese citizens said that the Israeli army dropped leaflets on parts of southern Lebanon, warning them not to help Hezbollah. As per AFP, since the cross-border exchanges began, more than 120 people have been killed on the Lebanese side, most of them Hezbollah fighters but also a Lebanese soldier and 17 civilians. On the Israeli side, four civilians have been killed in addition to the seven soldiers, authorities said. (With inputs from agencies)

France could play 'significant role' to avoid war in Lebanon: Israeli foreign minister

A senior Israeli envoy on Saturday (Dec 16) held a meeting with the prime minister of Qatar, a key mediator in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, news agency Reuters reported citing sources.

As per reports, sources from Egypt suggested that Israel appeared to be more open to a new deal with the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The meeting that took place between David Barnea and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani was the very first one between senior officials from Israel and Qatar.

In another sign of a possible breakthrough, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would convene his security cabinet and deliver a televised statement on Saturday evening.

<h2>Hostages killed by Israeli army</h2>

In another development from the ongoing conflict, the Israeli army on Saturday said that at least three hostages were mistakenly killed by the Israeli army were carrying a white flag and also cried for help in Hebrew.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-destroyer-shots-down-suspected-attack-drone-targeting-red-sea-shipping-670312">UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping'</a>

Family members of other hostages held in Gaza urged the Israeli government to pause the fighting and make a truce to secure their release.

Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samer El-Talalqa, all in their 20s, were shot during operations in Gaza City on Friday, prompting demonstrations in Israel.

Army spokesman Daniel Hagari said that during fighting in the Shejaiya district of Gaza City, troops "mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat and as a result, fired toward them and the hostages were killed".

An army official said the hostages were all "without shirts" and had "a stick with a white cloth on it", but a soldier felt threatened and opened fire.

"Two are killed immediately, one is injured and runs back into the building," the official said, adding that the soldiers heard "a cry for help... in Hebrew".

Despite a ceasefire order, "there's another burst of fire towards the third figure and he also dies."

<h2>United States urges Israel to narrow campaign</h2>

US President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, called on Israel to scale down its Gaza campaign and transition to more narrowly targeted operations against Hamas leaders, said the US official.

This came after Netanyahu reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group.

"We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that," Netanyahu said in a video statement released by his office.

(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.

&nbsp;

A senior Israeli envoy on Saturday (Dec 16) held a meeting with the prime minister of Qatar, a key mediator in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, news agency Reuters reported citing sources.

A senior Israeli envoy on Saturday (Dec 16) held a meeting with the prime minister of Qatar, a key mediator in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, news agency Reuters reported citing sources. As per reports, sources from Egypt suggested that Israel appeared to be more open to a new deal with the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The meeting that took place between David Barnea and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani was the very first one between senior officials from Israel and Qatar. In another sign of a possible breakthrough, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would convene his security cabinet and deliver a televised statement on Saturday evening. Hostages killed by Israeli army In another development from the ongoing conflict, the Israeli army on Saturday said that at least three hostages were mistakenly killed by the Israeli army were carrying a white flag and also cried for help in Hebrew. Also read: UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping' Family members of other hostages held in Gaza urged the Israeli government to pause the fighting and make a truce to secure their release. Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samer El-Talalqa, all in their 20s, were shot during operations in Gaza City on Friday, prompting demonstrations in Israel. Army spokesman Daniel Hagari said that during fighting in the Shejaiya district of Gaza City, troops "mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat and as a result, fired toward them and the hostages were killed". An army official said the hostages were all "without shirts" and had "a stick with a white cloth on it", but a soldier felt threatened and opened fire. "Two are killed immediately, one is injured and runs back into the building," the official said, adding that the soldiers heard "a cry for help... in Hebrew". Despite a ceasefire order, "there's another burst of fire towards the third figure and he also dies." United States urges Israel to narrow campaign US President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, called on Israel to scale down its Gaza campaign and transition to more narrowly targeted operations against Hamas leaders, said the US official. This came after Netanyahu reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group. "We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that," Netanyahu said in a video statement released by his office. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: Mossad and Qatar officials meet amid fresh hopes of truce talks

Billionaire Elon Musk on Saturday (Dec 16) said that oil and gas should not be demonised and that it was extremely critical to reduce carbon emissions to preserve the planet.

While speaking at a right-wing political gathering organised by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party, Musk said, "I don't think we should demonise oil and gas, I think we should say look that is obviously necessary in the short term and the medium term too, and although it takes several decades to become sustainable, so I think if we just, without getting too worried about it, seek to have a sustainable energy future, gradually, then that's what will happen."

"Climate change alarm is exaggerated in the short term," he further added.

Musk said that it was important that industries began reducing billions of the carbon they take from Earth and releasing it into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels.

"We should not demonise oil and gas in the medium term," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-destroyer-shots-down-suspected-attack-drone-targeting-red-sea-shipping-670312">UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping'</a>

<h2>'Worried about Italy's low birth rate', says Musk</h2>

On being asked if his firms would invest in Italy, Musk said that he was worried about the country's declining birth rate.

"Italy is a great place to invest. It's a great, you know, a great country. But I do want to emphasise that I do worry about the low birth rate. And you know, if a company is to invest in Italy, they're like, well you have to say like, will there be enough people to work there?," he said.&nbsp;

"You know, it's a simple question. You know, if the workforce is declining, then if the workforce is declining, then. Then. Then who will work at the company? Simple. If there's no people, there's no people to work," he added.

He further urged the Italian government to create incentives for families to have more kids, adding that the country could simply not rely on immigration to fill that gap.

(With inputs from agencies)

Billionaire Elon Musk on Saturday (Dec 16) said that oil and gas should not be demonised and that it was extremely critical to reduce carbon emissions to preserve the planet.

Billionaire Elon Musk on Saturday (Dec 16) said that oil and gas should not be demonised and that it was extremely critical to reduce carbon emissions to preserve the planet. While speaking at a right-wing political gathering organised by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party, Musk said, "I don't think we should demonise oil and gas, I think we should say look that is obviously necessary in the short term and the medium term too, and although it takes several decades to become sustainable, so I think if we just, without getting too worried about it, seek to have a sustainable energy future, gradually, then that's what will happen." "Climate change alarm is exaggerated in the short term," he further added. Musk said that it was important that industries began reducing billions of the carbon they take from Earth and releasing it into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels. "We should not demonise oil and gas in the medium term," he said. Also read: UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping' 'Worried about Italy's low birth rate', says Musk On being asked if his firms would invest in Italy, Musk said that he was worried about the country's declining birth rate. "Italy is a great place to invest. It's a great, you know, a great country. But I do want to emphasise that I do worry about the low birth rate. And you know, if a company is to invest in Italy, they're like, well you have to say like, will there be enough people to work there?," he said. "You know, it's a simple question. You know, if the workforce is declining, then if the workforce is declining, then. Then. Then who will work at the company? Simple. If there's no people, there's no people to work," he added. He further urged the Italian government to create incentives for families to have more kids, adding that the country could simply not rely on immigration to fill that gap. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate change alarm is exaggerated, we should not demonise oil and gas: Elon Musk

A religious freedom watchdog in the United States on Friday (Dec 15) called on the Joe Biden administration to designate India as a 'country of particular concern' under the US Religious Freedom Act, citing its alleged targeting of religious minorities overseas.

A religious freedom watchdog in the United States on Friday (Dec 15) called on the Joe Biden administration to designate India as a 'country of particular concern' under the US Religious Freedom Act, citing its alleged targeting of religious minorities overseas. In a statement, the US Commission on International Religious Freedom said that recent efforts by New Delhi to silence activists, journalists, and lawyers abroad posed a serious threat to religious freedom. "USCIRF implores the US Department of State to designate India a Country of Particular Concern due to India’s systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of freedom of religion or belief," the statement said. Also read: Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatens to blow up Indian Parliament after 'plot' to kill him According to a report by the news agency Reuters, USCIRF's Commissioner Stephen Schneck called New Delhi's alleged involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar (a Khalistani terrorist) and plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun (another Khalistani terrorist) in the US "deeply troubling." Earlier this month, federal prosecutors in Manhattan said an Indian national worked with an unnamed Indian government employee on a plot to assassinate a New York City (NYC) resident who advocated for a sovereign Sikh state in northern India. New Delhi denied any involvement in this plot, Reuters reported. India concerned about security over Pannun's threat On Dec 7, Indian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that New Delhi was worried about security following a threat from Pannun to attack the Indian Parliament on the anniversary of the 2001 attack on December 13. "We do take threats seriously, particularly depending on the context of that (threat)…in the specific case on the parliament (threat), we are caught in a bind, here I don't want to amplify too much credence to search extremists who make threats and get a lot of coverage…but on the other hand we take this seriously and this particular case I know that we have taken up this matter with the US and Canadian authorities about this threat...but as I said, extremists and terrorists have the tendency of wanting media coverage on an issue and I wouldn't like to dignify them that way," Bagchi told reporters. Also read: Indian parliament security breach: Sixth person arrested as authorities expand probe net "He (Gurpatwant Singh Pannu) is wanted by our agencies for violation of the law and there is a process under which we seek assistance, we seek that they be prosecuted, it depends on whether the crime is committed," he added. Meanwhile, on Dec 13, two men jumped inside the Lok Sabha (parliament's lower house) from the visitor's gallery above the chamber and threw smoke cannisters inside the premises. Six people, including the mastermind Lalit Jha, have been arrested in this case. (With inputs from agencies)

Pannun murder plot: US watchdog urges Biden to designate India as 'country of particular concern'

The United States issued a warning to North Korea that any kind of nuclear attack against the country or its allies "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime”. The warning was issued by the country in a joint US-South Korean statement on Saturday (Dec 16). 
 
"The US&nbsp;side reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the ROK will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response," read the statement. 
 
The second US-Republic of Korea Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) started in Washington on Friday (Dec 15) to hold talks over nuclear deterrence, as part of a commitment between the two countries where they share more insight regarding the planning if there is a conflict with North Korea.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-boasts-of-satellite-capability-warns-to-launch-more-soon-667790">North Korea boasts of satellite capability, warns to launch more soon</a>

A range of ballistic missiles have been developed and tested by Pyongyang which can reach targets in Japan, South Korea and the US mainland. 
 
South Korea's deputy national security adviser Kim Tae-hyo on Friday (Dec 16) said that North Korea is likely to test-launch an intercontinental ballistic missile in December, which is being seen as a nuclear threat regardless of its range since it has the capability of carrying a nuclear warhead. 
 
The third NCG will be held in South Korea next summer.

<h2>North Korea delegation reaches China for talks</h2>

A North Korean diplomatic delegation has reached China to hold talks which will focus on strengthening co-operation, said North Korean state media on Saturday (Dec 17), as Pyongyang is taking little steps towards opening its borders and resuming trade with its neighbouring countries after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Watch:&nbsp;US, Japan &amp; S. Korea to share missile warning data, North Korea slams the decision

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-japan-s-korea-to-share-missile-warning-data-north-korea-slams-the-decision-669732/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

North Korean Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Pak Myong Ho and counterpart Sun Weidong talked about increasing strategic co-operation and improving bilateral relations on Friday (Dec 16), said KCNA in a statement, without giving any further details. 
 
The visit of North Korean officials to China to discuss political issues publicly has been rare since January 2020, when the former country closed its borders to stop the spread of COVID-19. 
 
The trip of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in September was his first overseas visit since the pandemic.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States issued a warning to North Korea that any kind of nuclear attack against the country or its allies "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime”.

The United States issued a warning to North Korea that any kind of nuclear attack against the country or its allies "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime”. The warning was issued by the country in a joint US-South Korean statement on Saturday (Dec 16). "The US side reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the ROK will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response," read the statement. The second US-Republic of Korea Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) started in Washington on Friday (Dec 15) to hold talks over nuclear deterrence, as part of a commitment between the two countries where they share more insight regarding the planning if there is a conflict with North Korea. Also read: North Korea boasts of satellite capability, warns to launch more soon A range of ballistic missiles have been developed and tested by Pyongyang which can reach targets in Japan, South Korea and the US mainland. South Korea's deputy national security adviser Kim Tae-hyo on Friday (Dec 16) said that North Korea is likely to test-launch an intercontinental ballistic missile in December, which is being seen as a nuclear threat regardless of its range since it has the capability of carrying a nuclear warhead. The third NCG will be held in South Korea next summer. North Korea delegation reaches China for talks A North Korean diplomatic delegation has reached China to hold talks which will focus on strengthening co-operation, said North Korean state media on Saturday (Dec 17), as Pyongyang is taking little steps towards opening its borders and resuming trade with its neighbouring countries after the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch: US, Japan & S. Korea to share missile warning data, North Korea slams the decision North Korean Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Pak Myong Ho and counterpart Sun Weidong talked about increasing strategic co-operation and improving bilateral relations on Friday (Dec 16), said KCNA in a statement, without giving any further details. The visit of North Korean officials to China to discuss political issues publicly has been rare since January 2020, when the former country closed its borders to stop the spread of COVID-19. The trip of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in September was his first overseas visit since the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

US warns nuclear attack by North Korea will result in end of Kim Jong Un’s regime

Iran says it has executed Mossad agent accused of spying for Israel.

Iran says it has executed Mossad agent accused of spying for Israel

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is losing his popularity, in the wake of the row over his Rwanda policy and Covid scandal - a new poll shows Sunak's favorability ratings at a level of Boris Johnson at the time of his resignation.

UK PM Rishi Sunak warns of overwhelming migration

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