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The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, on Saturday (Dec 16), died at the age of 86, after being in power for three years, said the royal court.

“With great sadness and sorrow, we – the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world – mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” said a statement aired on Kuwaiti state television.

State television made the announcement after halting its regular programming and switched to a broadcast of the Koranic recital.

Kuwait announced 40 days of mourning and a three-day closure of official departments starting from Sunday to Tuesday.&nbsp;

Sheikh Nawaf was admitted to the hospital in the month of November "due to an emergency health problem", according to the official KUNA news agency, which did not share many details about his illness. He was later declared in stable condition.

His health had&nbsp;been a concern during his term given his age.

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Sheikh Nawaf was designated crown prince in 2006 by his half-brother Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and took over as emir when Sheikh Sabah passed away in Sep 2020 at the age of 91.

He had to navigate the economy through a crisis which was caused by a drop in oil prices in the year 2020.

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The crown prince, Sheikh Mishal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, another half-brother, is 83-year-old and much attention will be now focused on whether the family brings in a younger generation ruler.

Born in 1937, Sheikh Nawaf was the fifth son of Kuwait's late ruler from 1921 to 1950 Sheikh Ahmad al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

He began his political career at the age of 25 as governor of Hawalli province, where he remained until 1978 when he started a decade as interior minister.&nbsp;

<h2>India declares one-day state mourning</h2>

India has declared a one-day state of mourning throughout the nation on Sunday as a mark of respect to Sheikh Nawaf.

"His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait passed away on December 16, 2023. As a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, the Government of India has decided that there will be one day's state mourning (/topic/state-mourning) on December 17, 2023, throughout India," the Ministry of Home Affairs said in an official release.

"The National Flag will be flown at half-mast throughout India on all buildings where it is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment on the day," the MHA release added.

<h2>Sheikh Meshal named new emir</h2>

Kuwait's crown prince, Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Jaber Al-Sabah, was named the country's new emir in an emergency cabinet meeting after Sheikh Nawaf's passing, state television reported.

"Kuwait's cabinet names crown prince, his highness Sheikh Meshal... emir of the state of Kuwait," the broadcaster said.

<h2>Who is Kuwait's new emir Sheikh Meshal?</h2>

83-year-old Sheikh Meshal, before he was named as the crown prince three years ago, spent much of his career helping build the Gulf state's security and defence.

He was further pushed into the spotlight after he handed most of the unstable Emir Sheikh Nawaf's duties in Nov 2021.

Sheikh Meshal became Kuwait's third emir in just over three years. Until 2020, the post was held for 14 years by Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad, who was known in the Arab world for helping lead Kuwait out of the ruins of Iraq's 1990 invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, on Saturday (Dec 16), died at the age of 86, after being in power for three years, said the royal court. “With great sadness and sorrow, we – the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world – mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” said a statement aired on Kuwaiti state television.

The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, on Saturday (Dec 16), died at the age of 86, after being in power for three years, said the royal court. “With great sadness and sorrow, we – the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world – mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” said a statement aired on Kuwaiti state television. State television made the announcement after halting its regular programming and switched to a broadcast of the Koranic recital. Kuwait announced 40 days of mourning and a three-day closure of official departments starting from Sunday to Tuesday. Sheikh Nawaf was admitted to the hospital in the month of November "due to an emergency health problem", according to the official KUNA news agency, which did not share many details about his illness. He was later declared in stable condition. His health had been a concern during his term given his age. Also read: PM Modi meets Oman Sultan, discussions on free trade pact ongoing Sheikh Nawaf was designated crown prince in 2006 by his half-brother Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and took over as emir when Sheikh Sabah passed away in Sep 2020 at the age of 91. He had to navigate the economy through a crisis which was caused by a drop in oil prices in the year 2020. Also read: Iran executes man linked with Israel's intelligence service amid war in Gaza The crown prince, Sheikh Mishal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, another half-brother, is 83-year-old and much attention will be now focused on whether the family brings in a younger generation ruler. Born in 1937, Sheikh Nawaf was the fifth son of Kuwait's late ruler from 1921 to 1950 Sheikh Ahmad al-Jaber Al-Sabah. He began his political career at the age of 25 as governor of Hawalli province, where he remained until 1978 when he started a decade as interior minister. India declares one-day state mourning India has declared a one-day state of mourning throughout the nation on Sunday as a mark of respect to Sheikh Nawaf. "His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait passed away on December 16, 2023. As a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, the Government of India has decided that there will be one day's state mourning (/topic/state-mourning) on December 17, 2023, throughout India," the Ministry of Home Affairs said in an official release. "The National Flag will be flown at half-mast throughout India on all buildings where it is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment on the day," the MHA release added. Sheikh Meshal named new emir Kuwait's crown prince, Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Jaber Al-Sabah, was named the country's new emir in an emergency cabinet meeting after Sheikh Nawaf's passing, state television reported. "Kuwait's cabinet names crown prince, his highness Sheikh Meshal... emir of the state of Kuwait," the broadcaster said. Who is Kuwait's new emir Sheikh Meshal? 83-year-old Sheikh Meshal, before he was named as the crown prince three years ago, spent much of his career helping build the Gulf state's security and defence. He was further pushed into the spotlight after he handed most of the unstable Emir Sheikh Nawaf's duties in Nov 2021. Sheikh Meshal became Kuwait's third emir in just over three years. Until 2020, the post was held for 14 years by Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad, who was known in the Arab world for helping lead Kuwait out of the ruins of Iraq's 1990 invasion. (With inputs from agencies)

Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf dies at 86, Sheikh Meshal, 83, named successor

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Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once a former advisor to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment for financial crimes in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). 
 
The 75-year-old once powerful Italian cardinal was jailed by a Vatican Court for financial crimes, which brought the historic trial to an end 
 
Becciu, who was the Catholic Church's most senior clergyman, had earlier strongly denied charges which included abuse of office and embezzlement. 
 
He along with nine other defendants, which includes lawyers, financiers, and former Vatican employees, were on trial after they were accused of financial crimes which focused on an opaque property deal done in London.

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The verdict was read out by court president Giuseppe Pignatone on Saturday (Dec 16), with Becciu facing accusations of abuse of office, witness tampering and embezzlement. 
 
Becciu's lawyer Fabio Viglione said that they will respect the court's sentence but will "certainly" appeal. He was further imposed a fine of €8,000 (approx. $8726).

<h2>Vatican fraud trial</h2>

At the centre of the Vatican fraud trial was the purchase of a luxury property, worth €350 million ($380 million), in London which was part of an investment which started in 2014 and ended with the Vatican paying tens of millions of euros. 
 
The trial, which started in July 2021, has brought to the limelight the murky finances of the Holy See, which Pope Francis has decided to clean up since he took the helm of the Catholic Church in March 2013. This is also a test of his reforms. 
 
Francis, just weeks before the trial, gave the civilian courts of the Vatican the power to try bishops and cardinals, where earlier they were judged by a court which presided over by cardinals. 
 
Prosecutor Alessandro Diddi had called for seven years and three months of imprisonment for Becciu, and nearly four and 13 years prison sentence for the others.

Watch:&nbsp;Vatican re-creates first-ever nativity scene from 800-years-ago, lights up Christmas tree | WION

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vatican-re-creates-first-ever-nativity-scene-from-800-years-ago-lights-up-christmas-tree-wion-668400/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Becciu had always said that he was innocent and that the accusations against him as "totally unfounded" and added that he never took a cent. 
 
The Holy See, meanwhile, viewed itself as "an offended party" and had asked the court, via Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, to "punish all crimes". 
 
Among the Vatican entities, four are civil parties who had requested compensation from the defendants, which included €177 million (approx. $193 million) for reputational and moral damage.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once a former advisor to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment for financial crimes in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16).

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once a former advisor to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment for financial crimes in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). The 75-year-old once powerful Italian cardinal was jailed by a Vatican Court for financial crimes, which brought the historic trial to an end Becciu, who was the Catholic Church's most senior clergyman, had earlier strongly denied charges which included abuse of office and embezzlement. He along with nine other defendants, which includes lawyers, financiers, and former Vatican employees, were on trial after they were accused of financial crimes which focused on an opaque property deal done in London. Also read: Pope Francis calls for binding global treaty to regulate AI The verdict was read out by court president Giuseppe Pignatone on Saturday (Dec 16), with Becciu facing accusations of abuse of office, witness tampering and embezzlement. Becciu's lawyer Fabio Viglione said that they will respect the court's sentence but will "certainly" appeal. He was further imposed a fine of €8,000 (approx. $8726). Vatican fraud trial At the centre of the Vatican fraud trial was the purchase of a luxury property, worth €350 million ($380 million), in London which was part of an investment which started in 2014 and ended with the Vatican paying tens of millions of euros. The trial, which started in July 2021, has brought to the limelight the murky finances of the Holy See, which Pope Francis has decided to clean up since he took the helm of the Catholic Church in March 2013. This is also a test of his reforms. Francis, just weeks before the trial, gave the civilian courts of the Vatican the power to try bishops and cardinals, where earlier they were judged by a court which presided over by cardinals. Prosecutor Alessandro Diddi had called for seven years and three months of imprisonment for Becciu, and nearly four and 13 years prison sentence for the others. Watch: Vatican re-creates first-ever nativity scene from 800-years-ago, lights up Christmas tree | WION Becciu had always said that he was innocent and that the accusations against him as "totally unfounded" and added that he never took a cent. The Holy See, meanwhile, viewed itself as "an offended party" and had asked the court, via Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, to "punish all crimes". Among the Vatican entities, four are civil parties who had requested compensation from the defendants, which included €177 million (approx. $193 million) for reputational and moral damage. (With inputs from agencies)

Cardinal Becciu sent to prison for 5.5 years in historic Vatican fraud trial

Russia has shot down Ukrainian drones over five regions including Moscow besides two Ukrainian missiles over Azov Sea. The attack comes a day after Russia mounted a large scale drone attack on Kyiv.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia shot down numerous Ukrainian drones in 2 border region

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). In other news, Russian President Vladimir Putin will seek re-election as an independent candidate in 2024, Russian news agencies reported on Saturday.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cardinal-becciu-sent-to-prison-for-55-years-in-historic-vatican-fraud-trial-670354">Cardinal Becciu sent to prison for 5.5 years in historic Vatican fraud trial</a>

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Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16).

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A hostage who was mistakenly killed by the Israeli military while being held hostage in Gaza by Islamist group Hamas was laid to rest at a funeral in southern Israel on Saturday (December 16). Around 300 people turned out to mourn Samer Fouad Al-Talalka, 25, a member of Israel's Bedouin Arab minority, in his hometown of Hura.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/independent-putin-is-seeking-russian-presidency-again-heres-what-it-means-670352">'Independent' Putin is seeking Russian presidency again. Here's what it means</a>

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On Saturday, a group of over 700 politicians and figures from the sporting and cultural worlds met in Moscow and gave unanimous endorsement to Vladimir Putin as an independent candidate. Putin announced earlier this month that he will seek another six-year term in March next year in Russian presidential election.&nbsp;

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A British destroyer shot down a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea, defence minister Grant Shapps on Saturday (Dec 16) said in a statement, amid growing maritime tensions in the region.&nbsp;"Overnight, HMS Diamond shot down a suspected attack drone which was targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea. One Sea Viper missile was fired and successfully destroyed the target," Shapps said in a statement posted on X.

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The five people, who were arrested for the Parliament security breach on December 13, said that they were earlier considering options of self-immolation and distribution of pamphlets before they decided to jump from the visitors' gallery into the Lok Sabha with smoke canisters, said Delhi Police officials on Saturday (Dec 16).

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China's leading artificial intelligence firm SenseTime's founder and influential computer scientist Tang Xiao'ou died at the age of 51, said the company, in a statement on Saturday (Dec 16).&nbsp;"It is with an extremely heavy heart that we announce to everyone the sorrowful news: Our beloved founder... Tang Xiao'ou, due to an illness that could not be treated, left us forever at 23:45 on December 15, 2023," said SenseTime, in an online post.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwaits-ruling-emir-sheikh-nawaf-dies-at-the-age-of-86-670264">Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf dies at 86, Sheikh Meshal, 83, named successor</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399546-succession-2023-12-16t174756028.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, on Saturday (Dec 16), died at the age of 86, after being in power for three years, said the royal court. “With great sadness and sorrow, we – the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world – mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” said a statement aired on Kuwaiti state television.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-could-become-first-country-in-eu-to-provide-nature-with-a-protected-status-670356">Ireland could become first country in EU to provide nature with a protected status</a>

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The Irish government is planning to consider a request to alter the constitution in order to provide nature with a protected status. This could make Ireland the very first country in the European Union to do so.&nbsp;The proposal, recommended by the Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action, has recommended the government advance a referendum on safeguarding biodiversity. This would grant nature rights similar to that of humans.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik, held a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House on Saturday (Dec 16), focussing on reinforcing the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations.&nbsp;India is the third country Haitham bin Tarik has travelled to following&nbsp;Iran and Singapore after becoming the Sultan of his country.

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Homelessness in the United States reached to a record high as it surged to an unprecedented level due to a significant increase in first-time homelessness in the post-pandemic period.&nbsp;The findings of a report released by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development on Friday (Dec 15) revealed that over 650,000 individuals experienced homelessness on a single night in January this year, marking a notable 12 per cent rise from the figures reported in 2022.

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Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16).

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). In other news, Russian President Vladimir Putin will seek re-election as an independent candidate in 2024, Russian news agencies reported on Saturday. Click on the headlines to read more. Cardinal Becciu sent to prison for 5.5 years in historic Vatican fraud trial Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). LIVE: Funeral held for hostage mistakenly killed by Israeli army A hostage who was mistakenly killed by the Israeli military while being held hostage in Gaza by Islamist group Hamas was laid to rest at a funeral in southern Israel on Saturday (December 16). Around 300 people turned out to mourn Samer Fouad Al-Talalka, 25, a member of Israel's Bedouin Arab minority, in his hometown of Hura. 'Independent' Putin is seeking Russian presidency again. Here's what it means On Saturday, a group of over 700 politicians and figures from the sporting and cultural worlds met in Moscow and gave unanimous endorsement to Vladimir Putin as an independent candidate. Putin announced earlier this month that he will seek another six-year term in March next year in Russian presidential election. UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping' A British destroyer shot down a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea, defence minister Grant Shapps on Saturday (Dec 16) said in a statement, amid growing maritime tensions in the region. "Overnight, HMS Diamond shot down a suspected attack drone which was targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea. One Sea Viper missile was fired and successfully destroyed the target," Shapps said in a statement posted on X. Parliament security breach: Five accused reveal their plan of self-immolation The five people, who were arrested for the Parliament security breach on December 13, said that they were earlier considering options of self-immolation and distribution of pamphlets before they decided to jump from the visitors' gallery into the Lok Sabha with smoke canisters, said Delhi Police officials on Saturday (Dec 16). China: AI giant SenseTime founder Tang Xiao'ou dies days after revenue fabrication row China's leading artificial intelligence firm SenseTime's founder and influential computer scientist Tang Xiao'ou died at the age of 51, said the company, in a statement on Saturday (Dec 16). "It is with an extremely heavy heart that we announce to everyone the sorrowful news: Our beloved founder... Tang Xiao'ou, due to an illness that could not be treated, left us forever at 23:45 on December 15, 2023," said SenseTime, in an online post. Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf dies at 86, Sheikh Meshal, 83, named successor The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, on Saturday (Dec 16), died at the age of 86, after being in power for three years, said the royal court. “With great sadness and sorrow, we – the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world – mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” said a statement aired on Kuwaiti state television. Ireland could become first country in EU to provide nature with a protected status The Irish government is planning to consider a request to alter the constitution in order to provide nature with a protected status. This could make Ireland the very first country in the European Union to do so. The proposal, recommended by the Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action, has recommended the government advance a referendum on safeguarding biodiversity. This would grant nature rights similar to that of humans. PM Modi holds bilateral with Oman Sultan Haitham bin Tarik as discussions on free trade pact ongoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik, held a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House on Saturday (Dec 16), focussing on reinforcing the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations. India is the third country Haitham bin Tarik has travelled to following Iran and Singapore after becoming the Sultan of his country. Biden failing for the poor? US records highest-ever number of homeless people Homelessness in the United States reached to a record high as it surged to an unprecedented level due to a significant increase in first-time homelessness in the post-pandemic period. The findings of a report released by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development on Friday (Dec 15) revealed that over 650,000 individuals experienced homelessness on a single night in January this year, marking a notable 12 per cent rise from the figures reported in 2022.

Top 10 news: Funeral held for hostage mistakenly killed by Israel, Cardinal Becciu sent to prison, & more

The Israeli army has killed three captives held by Palestinian armed groups in Gaza after mistakenly identifying them as a threat, according to Israeli military officials.

Israel-Hamas war: IDF mistake kills three hostages held in Gaza

The Bermuda Triangle is a fascinating region of the earth that has been the subject of numerous allegations and conspiracy theories in recent years. One diver on the Triangle responded to "paranormal" accusations by searching thousands of shipwrecks. Scientists have now found that the archipelago's surrounding Atlantic Ocean is rapidly warming and losing oxygen.

Sea near Bermuda Triangle becomes almost unrecognizable

On his first visit to India as the top leader, Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a focus on expanding bilateral cooperation in diverse areas.

President Murmu and PM Modi give ceremonial welcome to Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik

Donald Trump's longtime attorney, former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, was ordered by a jury on Friday to pay $148 million in damages for falsely accusing two poll workers in Georgia of engaging in election fraud, according to US media.

Trump's ex lawyer Rudy Giuliani ordered to pay $148 million for defaming poll workers

West Asian waters continue to be fraught with danger. Iran has released a video showing the United States' aircraft carrier being forced to leave Persian Gulf on December 14th. This comes after an Iranian drone flew dangerously close to US Aircraft carrier D. Eisenhower a day prior. Washington has dubbed Iran's action as provocative and unprofessional.

IRGC: US Warship forced to leave Strait of Hormuz

National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi said that once Hamas is defeated in Gaza, Israel may have to go to war against Hezbollah across the northern border in Lebanon. While on the other hand, Yemen's Houthis vow to target all Israel-bound ships in Red Sea.

Israel-Hamas war: Another attack in the Red Sea by the Yemen's Houthis

All five members of the so-called 'Samosa Caucus' in the US Congress have warned New Delhi that Pannun murder plot can have damaging impact on the US-India ties if the case is not actively probed by New Delhi.&nbsp;They have also demanded India never repeat such incidents on American soil.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Lalit Jha, the mastermind of the security breach in Indian Parliament, was arrested as the fifth accused in the case after he surrendered late Thursday (Dec 14). According to the police, they are probing the “actual motive behind the attack" and his "association with any other enemy country as well as terrorist organisations."&nbsp;

The war between Israel and Hamas continues with Palestinian authorities saying that 18,000 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip so far. The number included 8,000 children and 6,200 women, it said, adding that 51,000 people had been injured since the war began on October 7.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-breach-all-accused-wanted-to-create-anarchy-in-country-police-tell-court-670164">‘Investigate Pannun plot or…’, USA's 'Samosa Caucas' issues warning to India</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399464-1532477-indian-thanedar-in-us.jpg?imwidth=3840" />All Indian-American US Congressmen have called on New Delhi to actively investigate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun’s alleged murder plot or be ready for the severing of the India-US ties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-promises-harsh-punishment-for-foreign-meddling-in-2024-election-670172">Russia's Putin promises harsh punishment for foreign meddling in 2024 election</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399471-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=3840" />

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Dec 15) promised harsh punishment for any foreign interference in the 2024 presidential election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-israel-reopens-aid-crossing-into-gaza-670152">Israel-Hamas war LIVE updates: We will not abandon Palestinian cause, say Houthis</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399460-untitled-design.png?imwidth=3840" />The Israeli military on Friday reopened an aid crossing into Gaza, allowing more aid to be delivered directly to Gaza through its Kerem Shalom border crossing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-breach-all-accused-wanted-to-create-anarchy-in-country-police-tell-court-670164">Parliament breach: All accused wanted to create ‘anarchy’ in country, police tell court</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399466-parliament-attack-accused-lalit-jha-135958697-16x90.jpg?imwidth=3840" />The key conspirator behind the shocking Parliament security breach earlier this week wanted to create ‘anarchy’ in the country, Delhi police stated in their remand plea to a court on Friday (Dec 15).&nbsp;

Gravitas | Biden, Kamala Harris at odds over Palestinians?

The US Is a divided house when it comes to supporting its friend in West Asia - Israel. It looks like President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, do not see eye to eye. Reports say Kamala Harris, is forcing the White House to adopt a more sympathetic stance toward Palestinians, publicly.

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All five members of the so-called 'Samosa Caucus' in the US Congress have warned New Delhi that Pannun murder plot can have damaging impact on the US-India ties if the case is not actively probed by New Delhi.

All five members of the so-called 'Samosa Caucus' in the US Congress have warned New Delhi that Pannun murder plot can have damaging impact on the US-India ties if the case is not actively probed by New Delhi. They have also demanded India never repeat such incidents on American soil. Meanwhile, Lalit Jha, the mastermind of the security breach in Indian Parliament, was arrested as the fifth accused in the case after he surrendered late Thursday (Dec 14). According to the police, they are probing the “actual motive behind the attack" and his "association with any other enemy country as well as terrorist organisations." The war between Israel and Hamas continues with Palestinian authorities saying that 18,000 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip so far. The number included 8,000 children and 6,200 women, it said, adding that 51,000 people had been injured since the war began on October 7. Click on the headlines to read more. ‘Investigate Pannun plot or…’, USA's 'Samosa Caucas' issues warning to India All Indian-American US Congressmen have called on New Delhi to actively investigate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun’s alleged murder plot or be ready for the severing of the India-US ties. Russia's Putin promises harsh punishment for foreign meddling in 2024 election Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Dec 15) promised harsh punishment for any foreign interference in the 2024 presidential election. Israel-Hamas war LIVE updates: We will not abandon Palestinian cause, say Houthis The Israeli military on Friday reopened an aid crossing into Gaza, allowing more aid to be delivered directly to Gaza through its Kerem Shalom border crossing. Parliament breach: All accused wanted to create ‘anarchy’ in country, police tell court The key conspirator behind the shocking Parliament security breach earlier this week wanted to create ‘anarchy’ in the country, Delhi police stated in their remand plea to a court on Friday (Dec 15). Gravitas | Biden, Kamala Harris at odds over Palestinians? The US Is a divided house when it comes to supporting its friend in West Asia - Israel. It looks like President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, do not see eye to eye. Reports say Kamala Harris, is forcing the White House to adopt a more sympathetic stance toward Palestinians, publicly. ×

Morning brief: USA's 'Samosa Caucus' warns India over Pannun probe, Putin's warning for 2024 elections, & more

The Israeli army has killed three captives held by Palestinian armed groups in Gaza after mistakenly identifying them as a threat, according to Israeli military officials. To know more watch this interview with Former Director of National Security Council Israel, Helit Barel.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli army bears full responsibility

Sydney, Tokyo, Copenhagen, Kyiv and many more cities around the world are ready for the Christmas season with vast decorations and twinkling lights shining bright. Keep watching to know more.

Kyiv marks Christmas amid ongoing war, cities welcome Christmas with dazzling lights

Israel-Hamas war: IDF mistake kills three hostages in Gaza

A significant US aircraft carrier has departed the vital Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, according to the head of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy. Under the guise of averting a possible escalation, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier has been dispatched to the region, and Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri stated on Friday that the IRGC naval forces were keeping a careful eye on it.

IRGC: US aircraft carrier Eisenhower exits Strait of Hormuz, Persian Gulf

Russian President Vladimir Putin will seek re-election as an independent candidate in 2024, Russian news agencies reported on Saturday (Dec 16).

On Saturday, a group of over 700 politicians and figures from the sporting and cultural worlds met in Moscow and gave unanimous endorsement to Vladimir Putin as an independent candidate.&nbsp;

Putin announced earlier this month that he will seek another six-year term in March next year in Russian presidential election.&nbsp;

Andrei Turchak, senior United Russia party official, told RIA news agency that Putin has complete support of the party despite the serving president's status as an independent candidate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/the-longestruling-world-leaders-putin-lukashenko-right-now-1702141879742">The Longest-Ruling World Leaders Right Now</a>

As the largest party in Russia, it holds 325 of the 450 seats in the State Duma as of 2022, having constituted the majority in the chamber since 2007.

Putin has led Russia as either president or prime minister since 1999. The 71-year-old swapped presidential job with Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev in 2008, following which he changed the rules that limited consecutive presidential mandates. He has been president since 2012 and can potentially remain so until 2036.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Russian president Vladimir Putin's re-election pitch

As prime minister, Putin in 2011 forged a political coalition called All-Russia People's Front (in Russian: ONF) to provide the United Russia political party with "new ideas, new suggestions and new faces".&nbsp;

The ONF aims to forge formal alliances between United Russia (the ruling party from 2001 onwards) and numerous Russian non-governmental organisations.

<h2>Putin's next presidential run: Aren't there any other candidates?</h2>

Several other candidates, including representatives of the Communist and Liberal Democratic parties that have given the semblance of opposition to Putin during his previous campaigns.

The Liberal-leaning Boris Nadezhdin is also one of the few Russian politicians who have announced their intention to run. Nadezhdin has called the war in Ukraine Putin's "fatal mistake".

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-putin-presidency-and-elections-the-ruling-russian-trio-of-convenience-668005">Explained | Putin, presidency and elections — a race of convenience for indisputable rule</a>

On the federal level, Russia elects a president as head of state and a parliament, one of the two chambers of the Federal Assembly. Since 2008, the president can hold four consecutive six-year terms.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin will seek re-election as an independent candidate in 2024, Russian news agencies reported on Saturday (Dec 16). On Saturday, a group of over 700 politicians and figures from the sporting and cultural worlds met in Moscow and gave unanimous endorsement to Vladimir Putin as an independent candidate.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will seek re-election as an independent candidate in 2024, Russian news agencies reported on Saturday (Dec 16). On Saturday, a group of over 700 politicians and figures from the sporting and cultural worlds met in Moscow and gave unanimous endorsement to Vladimir Putin as an independent candidate. Putin announced earlier this month that he will seek another six-year term in March next year in Russian presidential election. Andrei Turchak, senior United Russia party official, told RIA news agency that Putin has complete support of the party despite the serving president's status as an independent candidate. Also read | The Longest-Ruling World Leaders Right Now As the largest party in Russia, it holds 325 of the 450 seats in the State Duma as of 2022, having constituted the majority in the chamber since 2007. Putin has led Russia as either president or prime minister since 1999. The 71-year-old swapped presidential job with Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev in 2008, following which he changed the rules that limited consecutive presidential mandates. He has been president since 2012 and can potentially remain so until 2036. Also watch | Russian president Vladimir Putin's re-election pitch As prime minister, Putin in 2011 forged a political coalition called All-Russia People's Front (in Russian: ONF) to provide the United Russia political party with "new ideas, new suggestions and new faces". The ONF aims to forge formal alliances between United Russia (the ruling party from 2001 onwards) and numerous Russian non-governmental organisations. Putin's next presidential run: Aren't there any other candidates? Several other candidates, including representatives of the Communist and Liberal Democratic parties that have given the semblance of opposition to Putin during his previous campaigns. The Liberal-leaning Boris Nadezhdin is also one of the few Russian politicians who have announced their intention to run. Nadezhdin has called the war in Ukraine Putin's "fatal mistake". Also read | Explained | Putin, presidency and elections — a race of convenience for indisputable rule On the federal level, Russia elects a president as head of state and a parliament, one of the two chambers of the Federal Assembly. Since 2008, the president can hold four consecutive six-year terms. (With inputs from agencies)

'Independent' Putin is seeking Russian presidency again. Here's what it means

Strange changes affecting the waters surrounding Bermuda Triangle

The European leaders have pledged to find a way to provide Aid to Ukraine after Hungary vetoed a $55 billion financial aid. On Friday 26 national leaders of the European Union in fact took a historic step of agreeing to start the accession negotiations of Ukraine.

European leaders pledge to find a way for Ukraine aid

Israel continues to pound the Gaza Strip with increased intensity the ongoing military offensive continues to flatten Southern Gaza. Over 90% of Gaza's 2.3 million civilians stand displaced.

Israel-Hamas war: Palestinian death toll touches 18,890, including 7,729 children

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