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In Argentina, the Central Bank has restricted dollar holdings of banks. The limit set is an effort to deter hoarding ahead of President-elect Javier Milei's devaluation plan. The legislation is effective right away and will last until the end of the year. The new regulation will compel banks to unwind dollars they already hold in their portfolio.

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Tata Motors lobbies for higher tax on imported EVs

The show of bilateral bonhomie between Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, first seen during Meloni's New Delhi visit in March 2023, has not just <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-pm-giorgia-melonis-melodi-selfie-with-indian-pm-narendra-modi-breaks-internet-665269">taken over the internet</a> but also the corridors of power in New Delhi and Rome. The bilateral relationship between the two countries stands elevated to the level of strategic partnership since March, with Rome's naval experience in Adriatic Sea adding to India's strategic advantage in the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

But all was not well between India and Italy.

While the two countries have shared warmer ties since India achieved freedom from the British Empire in 1947, the bilateral frost came in 2012 when two Italian marines were accused of killing two Indian fishermen near the coast line of southern state of Kerala.&nbsp;

The marines claimed they mistook the fishermen for pirates, and Italy argued the fishermen failed to heed warnings to stay away from the MV Enrica Lexie tanker. The two were arrested and charged with murder.

The case was moved from Kerala to New Delhi. It blew up. The marines stayed on at the Italian embassy complex while the trial went on.&nbsp;

With a pending trial, the two marines were allowed to return to Italy.

In 2015, New Delhi and Rome took the case to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Netherlands' Hague.

The PCA ordered Italy to pay ₹100mn in compensation to India "for loss of life".

Finally, the case was closed in 2021.

<h2>India-Italy relations: Effort to repair ties before 'Melodi' bonhomie</h2>

In September 2016, India's then foreign minister Sushma Swaraj led an official delegation for the canonisation ceremony of Albanian-Indian social reformer Mother Teresa at the Vatican City. While the Catholic mass at St Peter's square presided over by Pope Francis had an obvious religious fervour, the corridors of diplomacy witnessed a crucial bilateral breakthrough between India's foreign minister Sushma Swaraj and her Italian counterpart Paolo Gentiloni.&nbsp;<img alt="Former Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj (centre) along with former minister for food processing industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal in Vatican City" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d6ee272-fe9c-42f1-bb69-2b021d87125a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-08T200257.568.png" />

Former Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj (centre) along with former minister for food processing industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal in Vatican City | Agencies

Swaraj and Gentiloni decided that their countries will celebrate the 70th year of India-Italy diplomatic ties. In 2018, the India-Italy ties were celebrated with cultural events in both India and Italy.&nbsp;

In December 2019, during the second tenure of Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the current foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Rome and met the predecessor of Giorgia Meloni, the then Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.&nbsp;

Jaishankar's Italy visit in December 2019 took place months after Italy -- in March 2019 -- became the only G7 nation to join China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI is a transcontinental Chinese connectivity project India has opposed since it passes through a part of India's Jammu and Kashmir under Pakistani and Chinese occupation respectively.&nbsp;

The foundation was laid for an upcoming India-Italy summit in 2020.&nbsp;

Amid Covid pandemic, a virtual India-Italy summit was held in November 2020. The summit saw the adoption of 2020-2025 Action Plan which further established the ambitious agenda for an enhanced partnership between the two countries.&nbsp;

A total of 15 Memorandums of Understanding covering areas like energy, media, finance, and ship building were signed.

The two sides "underscored the need to further expand defence engagement through greater two-way collaboration and technology cooperation, co-development and co-production, by expediting discussions through the Joint Defence Committee and Military Cooperation Group".&nbsp;

<h2>India-Italy ties: The 'melodi' bonhomie</h2>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his first official visit to Italy in October 2021 to attend the G20 leaders’ summit. On the sidelines of the Summit, he held a bilateral meeting with then PM Mario Draghi in which the two leaders "exchanged views on bilateral relations as well as international and regional issues of mutual interest".

In&nbsp;March&nbsp;2023, the newly elected Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid a state visit to India.&nbsp;

Meloni and Modi held discussions on promoting green economy, energy security and transition, defence co-production and co-innovation, and the blue economy.

The top outcome of Meloni's state visit was the elevation of the bilateral relationship to the level of Strategic Partnership. A startup bridge between Indian and Italian startup companies was also established.&nbsp;

Besides, it was was during her March visit to India when&nbsp;Meloni praised Modi as "the most loved leader" of the world. The netizens then held on to that snippet and 'Melodi' (the fusion of the last names of two prime ministers) came into vogue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-pm-giorgia-melonis-melodi-selfie-with-indian-pm-narendra-modi-breaks-internet-665269">Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's 'Melodi' selfie with Indian PM Narendra Modi breaks internet</a>

The 'Melodi' continued to be a social media catchphrase during G20 summit which India hosted in September 2023 and achieved a new height of popularity last week when Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni posted a selfie of herself with Modi by using the hashtag: #Melodi.&nbsp;

The selfie, clicked on the sidelines of the COP28 meet in Dubai, was captioned by Meloni: "Good friends at COP28. #Melodi".

Also watch |&nbsp;Melodi Selfie | Indian PM Modi reacts to 'Melodi' selfie

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Modi reposted the picture, writing: “Meeting friends is always a delight.”

<h2>India-Italy relations: The China factor</h2>

India and Italy were on the same page when a consensus was reached on India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor, widely hailed as a response to China's Belt and Road Initiative.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delhi-g20-modi-biden-mbs-launch-inter-continent-economic-corridor-to-outfox-chinas-bri-634176">G20 Delhi summit: Why India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor is a 'real big deal'</a>

Italy's move to pull itself out of the Belt and Road Initiative this month has brought a specific bilateral convergence in terms of Rome and New Delhi's shared interests on global connectivity.

The show of bilateral bonhomie between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, first seen during Meloni's New Delhi visit in March 2023, has not just taken over the internet but also the corridors of power in New Delhi and Rome.

The show of bilateral bonhomie between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, first seen during Meloni's New Delhi visit in March 2023, has not just taken over the internet but also the corridors of power in New Delhi and Rome. The bilateral relationship between the two countries stands elevated to the level of strategic partnership since March, with Rome's naval experience in Adriatic Sea adding to India's strategic advantage in the Indo-Pacific. But all was not well between India and Italy. While the two countries have shared warmer ties since India achieved freedom from the British Empire in 1947, the bilateral frost came in 2012 when two Italian marines were accused of killing two Indian fishermen near the coast line of southern state of Kerala. The marines claimed they mistook the fishermen for pirates, and Italy argued the fishermen failed to heed warnings to stay away from the MV Enrica Lexie tanker. The two were arrested and charged with murder. The case was moved from Kerala to New Delhi. It blew up. The marines stayed on at the Italian embassy complex while the trial went on. With a pending trial, the two marines were allowed to return to Italy. In 2015, New Delhi and Rome took the case to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Netherlands' Hague. The PCA ordered Italy to pay ₹100mn in compensation to India "for loss of life". Finally, the case was closed in 2021. India-Italy relations: Effort to repair ties before 'Melodi' bonhomie In September 2016, India's then foreign minister Sushma Swaraj led an official delegation for the canonisation ceremony of Albanian-Indian social reformer Mother Teresa at the Vatican City. While the Catholic mass at St Peter's square presided over by Pope Francis had an obvious religious fervour, the corridors of diplomacy witnessed a crucial bilateral breakthrough between India's foreign minister Sushma Swaraj and her Italian counterpart Paolo Gentiloni. Former Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj (centre) along with former minister for food processing industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal in Vatican City | Agencies Swaraj and Gentiloni decided that their countries will celebrate the 70th year of India-Italy diplomatic ties. In 2018, the India-Italy ties were celebrated with cultural events in both India and Italy. In December 2019, during the second tenure of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the current foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Rome and met the predecessor of Giorgia Meloni, the then Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte. Jaishankar's Italy visit in December 2019 took place months after Italy -- in March 2019 -- became the only G7 nation to join China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI is a transcontinental Chinese connectivity project India has opposed since it passes through a part of India's Jammu and Kashmir under Pakistani and Chinese occupation respectively. The foundation was laid for an upcoming India-Italy summit in 2020. Amid Covid pandemic, a virtual India-Italy summit was held in November 2020. The summit saw the adoption of 2020-2025 Action Plan which further established the ambitious agenda for an enhanced partnership between the two countries. A total of 15 Memorandums of Understanding covering areas like energy, media, finance, and ship building were signed. The two sides "underscored the need to further expand defence engagement through greater two-way collaboration and technology cooperation, co-development and co-production, by expediting discussions through the Joint Defence Committee and Military Cooperation Group". India-Italy ties: The 'melodi' bonhomie Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his first official visit to Italy in October 2021 to attend the G20 leaders’ summit. On the sidelines of the Summit, he held a bilateral meeting with then PM Mario Draghi in which the two leaders "exchanged views on bilateral relations as well as international and regional issues of mutual interest". In March 2023, the newly elected Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid a state visit to India. Meloni and Modi held discussions on promoting green economy, energy security and transition, defence co-production and co-innovation, and the blue economy. The top outcome of Meloni's state visit was the elevation of the bilateral relationship to the level of Strategic Partnership. A startup bridge between Indian and Italian startup companies was also established. Besides, it was was during her March visit to India when Meloni praised Modi as "the most loved leader" of the world. The netizens then held on to that snippet and 'Melodi' (the fusion of the last names of two prime ministers) came into vogue. Also read | Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's 'Melodi' selfie with Indian PM Narendra Modi breaks internet The 'Melodi' continued to be a social media catchphrase during G20 summit which India hosted in September 2023 and achieved a new height of popularity last week when Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni posted a selfie of herself with Modi by using the hashtag: #Melodi. The selfie, clicked on the sidelines of the COP28 meet in Dubai, was captioned by Meloni: "Good friends at COP28. #Melodi". Also watch | Melodi Selfie | Indian PM Modi reacts to 'Melodi' selfie × Modi reposted the picture, writing: “Meeting friends is always a delight.” India-Italy relations: The China factor India and Italy were on the same page when a consensus was reached on India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor, widely hailed as a response to China's Belt and Road Initiative. Also read | G20 Delhi summit: Why India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor is a 'real big deal' Italy's move to pull itself out of the Belt and Road Initiative this month has brought a specific bilateral convergence in terms of Rome and New Delhi's shared interests on global connectivity.

Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years

Amid the ongoing controversy over the US indictment on an Indian's alleged role in plotting a foiled murder of designated terrorist, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, FBI chief Christopher Wray will visit India next week. During his visit, India will reportedly present all evidence against Pannun to the US authorities. What does the international law say about anti-national elements operating from foreign soil? Vikram Chandra speaks with top lawyer and former Attorney General of India, Mukul Rohatgi.

Indian gov should provide all information regarding Pannun to FBI: Ex Attorney Gen, Mukul Rohatgi

The Department of Justice filed new criminal charges against US. President Joe Biden's son, Hunter, accusing him of failing to pay 1.4-million-dollars in taxes while spending millions of dollars on a lavish lifestyle. Biden was hit with three felony and six misdemeanour tax offences, according to an indictment filed in US district court in central california.

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Armenia and Azerbaijan released a joint statement on Thursday (Dec 7) stating that both countries have agreed to take tangible steps in the direction towards normalising ties and exchanging prisoners of war.

Both sides, in a joint statement, agreed to seize "a historical chance to achieve a long-awaited peace in the region".

"The two countries reconfirm their intention to normalize relations and to reach the peace treaty on the basis of respect for the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity," the statement said.

Baku will release 32 Armenian prisoners of war, while Yerevan will release two Azerbaijani servicemen, according to the statement.

The two countries also said they "will continue their discussions regarding the implementation of more confidence-building measures, effective in the near future, and call on the international community to support their efforts".

The agreement between both countries was reached during talks between the office of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and the administration of Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev.

Armenia's foreign ministry said Yerevan had "responded positively to the offer of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to organise the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan in Washington".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-holds-telephonic-discussion-with-netanyahu-emphasizes-on-critical-need-to-safeguard-civilians-667387">Biden underlines 'critical need to protect civilians' in call with Netanyahu</a>

<h2>EU chief praises 'major breakthrough'</h2>

EU Council President Charles Michel on Thursday praised the "key step" calling it a "major breakthrough" in the ties between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

"Delighted to welcome a major breakthrough" in relations, Michel wrote on X. "Welcome in particular release of detainees and unprecedented opening in political dialogue."

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Delighted to welcome a major break through in 🇦🇲- 🇦🇿 relations as they issue a joint statement. 
 
Welcome in particular release of detainees and unprecedented opening in political dialogue. 
 
Establishing and deepening bilateral dialogue between sides has been a key objective of…
— Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) <a href="https://twitter.com/CharlesMichel/status/1732821162797760513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>US hails 'confidence building measure'</h2>

The United States welcomed the move calling it a "confidence-building measure" between both countries.

"This commitment represents an important confidence-building measure as the sides work to finalize a peace agreement and normalize relations," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement.

"We commend Azerbaijani President (Ilham) Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister (Nikol) Pashinyan for their joint efforts to lay the groundwork for a more peaceful and prosperous future for the people of the South Caucasus."

(With inputs from agencies)

Armenia and Azerbaijan released a joint statement on Thursday (Dec 7) stating that both countries have agreed to take tangible steps in the direction towards normalising ties and exchanging prisoners of war.

Armenia and Azerbaijan released a joint statement on Thursday (Dec 7) stating that both countries have agreed to take tangible steps in the direction towards normalising ties and exchanging prisoners of war. Both sides, in a joint statement, agreed to seize "a historical chance to achieve a long-awaited peace in the region". "The two countries reconfirm their intention to normalize relations and to reach the peace treaty on the basis of respect for the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity," the statement said. Baku will release 32 Armenian prisoners of war, while Yerevan will release two Azerbaijani servicemen, according to the statement. The two countries also said they "will continue their discussions regarding the implementation of more confidence-building measures, effective in the near future, and call on the international community to support their efforts". The agreement between both countries was reached during talks between the office of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and the administration of Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev. Armenia's foreign ministry said Yerevan had "responded positively to the offer of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to organise the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan in Washington". Also read: Biden underlines 'critical need to protect civilians' in call with Netanyahu EU chief praises 'major breakthrough' EU Council President Charles Michel on Thursday praised the "key step" calling it a "major breakthrough" in the ties between Armenia and Azerbaijan. "Delighted to welcome a major breakthrough" in relations, Michel wrote on X. "Welcome in particular release of detainees and unprecedented opening in political dialogue." Delighted to welcome a major break through in 🇦🇲- 🇦🇿 relations as they issue a joint statement. Welcome in particular release of detainees and unprecedented opening in political dialogue. Establishing and deepening bilateral dialogue between sides has been a key objective of… — Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) December 7, 2023 × US hails 'confidence building measure' The United States welcomed the move calling it a "confidence-building measure" between both countries. "This commitment represents an important confidence-building measure as the sides work to finalize a peace agreement and normalize relations," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement. "We commend Azerbaijani President (Ilham) Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister (Nikol) Pashinyan for their joint efforts to lay the groundwork for a more peaceful and prosperous future for the people of the South Caucasus." (With inputs from agencies)

Armenia, Azerbaijan agree to exchange prisoners of war in joint statement

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Dec 7) held a telephonic discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu where he stressed the "critical" need to safeguard the civilians as grave urban battle seethed around Gaza's biggest cities, the White House said in a statement.

"The president emphasized the critical need to protect civilians and to separate the civilian population from Hamas including through corridors that allow people to move safely from defined areas of hostilities," the White House said in a statement.

This comes after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday urged Israel to do more to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and make necessary efforts to protect civilians in the Palestinian territory, in a phone call with Israeli Foreign Minister Ron Dermer, said a US official.

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Today I spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu to express my concern for the remaining hostages — and to note that it was Hamas’s refusal to release women civilian hostages that broke down the humanitarian pause.⁰⁰We will continue to pursue every opportunity to free them.
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1732923046061593081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Blinken welcomed Israel's decision to approve a "minimal" increase in the fuel supply to the conflict-torn besieged Palestinian enclave.

However, he also asked Dermer to make more efforts in that direction, a senior State Department official told reporters on condition of anonymity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/video-china-bound-russian-plane-goes-up-in-flames-moments-after-terrifying-explosion-667280">Video: Russian plane goes up in flames moments after terrifying explosion</a>

<h2>Israel approves 'minimal' increase in fuel supply to Gaza</h2>

Israel allowed a "minimal" increase in the fuel supply to conflict-torn Gaza to prevent a "humanitarian collapse", Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement on Wednesday.

"The Security Cabinet, this evening, approved the recommendation of the War Cabinet to allow a minimal supplement of fuel – necessary to prevent a humanitarian collapse and the outbreak of epidemics – into the southern Gaza Strip," Netanyahu's office wrote on X.

"The minimal amount will be determined from time to time by the War Cabinet according to the morbidity situation and humanitarian situation in the Strip," it added.

The move by Israel came after the United Nations warned of a complete breakdown of public order in Gaza as the conflict intensifies in the south of the Palestinian territory.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres feared the public order would "completely break down soon" in Gaza.

"Amid constant bombardment by the Israel Defense Forces, and without shelter or the essentials to survive, I expect public order to completely break down soon due to the desperate conditions, rendering even limited humanitarian assistance impossible," he said in a letter to the UN Security Council.&nbsp;

Guterres told the council in his letter that the war "may aggravate existing threats to international peace and security."

He invoked Article 99 of the founding UN Charter, allowing him to "bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security."

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Dec 7) held a telephonic discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu where he stressed the "critical" need to safeguard the civilians as grave urban battle seethed around Gaza's biggest cities, the White House said in a statement.

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Dec 7) held a telephonic discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu where he stressed the "critical" need to safeguard the civilians as grave urban battle seethed around Gaza's biggest cities, the White House said in a statement. "The president emphasized the critical need to protect civilians and to separate the civilian population from Hamas including through corridors that allow people to move safely from defined areas of hostilities," the White House said in a statement. This comes after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday urged Israel to do more to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and make necessary efforts to protect civilians in the Palestinian territory, in a phone call with Israeli Foreign Minister Ron Dermer, said a US official. Today I spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu to express my concern for the remaining hostages — and to note that it was Hamas’s refusal to release women civilian hostages that broke down the humanitarian pause.⁰⁰We will continue to pursue every opportunity to free them. — President Biden (@POTUS) December 8, 2023 × Blinken welcomed Israel's decision to approve a "minimal" increase in the fuel supply to the conflict-torn besieged Palestinian enclave. However, he also asked Dermer to make more efforts in that direction, a senior State Department official told reporters on condition of anonymity. Also read: Video: Russian plane goes up in flames moments after terrifying explosion Israel approves 'minimal' increase in fuel supply to Gaza Israel allowed a "minimal" increase in the fuel supply to conflict-torn Gaza to prevent a "humanitarian collapse", Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement on Wednesday. "The Security Cabinet, this evening, approved the recommendation of the War Cabinet to allow a minimal supplement of fuel – necessary to prevent a humanitarian collapse and the outbreak of epidemics – into the southern Gaza Strip," Netanyahu's office wrote on X. "The minimal amount will be determined from time to time by the War Cabinet according to the morbidity situation and humanitarian situation in the Strip," it added. The move by Israel came after the United Nations warned of a complete breakdown of public order in Gaza as the conflict intensifies in the south of the Palestinian territory. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres feared the public order would "completely break down soon" in Gaza. "Amid constant bombardment by the Israel Defense Forces, and without shelter or the essentials to survive, I expect public order to completely break down soon due to the desperate conditions, rendering even limited humanitarian assistance impossible," he said in a letter to the UN Security Council. Guterres told the council in his letter that the war "may aggravate existing threats to international peace and security." He invoked Article 99 of the founding UN Charter, allowing him to "bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security." (With inputs from agencies)

Biden holds telephonic discussion with Netanyahu, underlines 'critical need to safeguard civilians'

The UK and US Governments have jointly accused russian intelligence of orchestrating a wide-ranging hacking campaign. Kremlin faces accusations of targeting British MPs, civil servants, and journalists to meddle in the UK's next general elections.

UK accuses Russia of cyber interference

The US lawmakers have launched an investigation into antisemitism at the Ivy League colleges after their leaders received backlash for shaky testimonies during a congressional hearing on antisemitism, concerning the Israel-Hamas war.

The US lawmakers have launched an investigation into antisemitism at the Ivy League colleges after their leaders received backlash for shaky testimonies during a congressional hearing on antisemitism, concerning the Israel-Hamas war. The three Ivy League university leaders arrived at Capitol Hill, earlier this week, to answer questions about rising antisemitism on their campuses before the House Education and Workforce Committee. However, surprising many, all three refrained from outrightly condemning the antisemitic calls on the campuses, saying the speeches needed 'context'. Elise Stefanik, the fourth-ranking House Republican informed about the opening of the congressional inquiry. “After this week’s pathetic and morally bankrupt testimony by university presidents when answering my questions, the Education and Workforce Committee is launching an official congressional investigation with the full force of subpoena power into Penn, MIT, Harvard and others,” said Stefanik. “We will use our full congressional authority to hold these schools accountable for their failure on the global stage,” she added. Watch | US: Cornell University students charged with anti-Semitic threats to students × What happened during the hearing? Repeatedly asked if she would say calling for the genocide of Jews constituted harassment, Harvard University President Claudine Gay said it could depend on the "context" and if it targets specific individuals. Penn President Elizabeth Magill said if speech turned into conduct, then it would be considered harassment. Meanwhile, MIT President Sally Kornbluth said: "We have heard chants which can be antisemitic depending on the context when calling for the elimination of the Jewish people." Also read | 'Calling for genocide...': Elon Musk slams heads of Harvard, MIT, Penn universities for antisemitism on campus After the video clip of the testimony went viral, severe backlash followed with the likes of Elon Musk, Bill Ackman and Albert Bourla among others calling out the colleges for allowing such representation of their institutions. According to a New York Post report, the Penn University is expected to ask Magill to resign on Friday (Dec 8) for her failure to condemn calls for genocide. The Ivy League school’s Board of Trustees held an emergency meeting on Thursday to deal with the fallout of the issue. State Governor Josh Shapiro, a Jew himself, has called Magill’s testimony “shameful”. “Leaders have a responsibility to speak and act with moral clarity, and Liz Magill failed to meet that simple test,” he said. Ever since the events of October 7 and the subsequent retaliation by the Israeli forces, the American campuses have been inundated with incidents of antisemitism and intifada chants with Jews being the main target. (With inputs from agencies)

US Congress launches antisemitism probe against elite universities as three varsity chiefs face backlash

In a rare and unprecedented move, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter on Wednesday (Dec 6). This decision is aimed at formally warning the UN Security Council about the global threat emanating from Israel's ongoing military operations in Gaza.

UN chief Guterres speaks on the situation in Gaza

A resolution has been introduced in the US House of Representatives - it urges Pakistan to uphold democratic institutions, human rights and the rule of law.

US House resolution urges Pakistan to uphold democratic institution

Israeli media has published reports suggesting that the IDF not only knew about the Hamas' attack on the Super Nova Music Festival but also held emergency meetings. However, they chose to not inform the festival organisers in advance. The dismissed information proved fatal to 360 party-goers just hours later whereas an additional 40 were also taken hostage.

Israel-Hamas war: IDF didn't inform festival organisers: Report

Former US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 7) appeared at a New York court to attend his ongoing civil fraud trial, where he condemned the process as unfair.

The frontrunner for the next year's Republican presidential nomination, along with his two eldest sons, has been accused of boosting the value of his real estate purchases to acquire more favourable bank loans and insurance terms.

His defence team is asserting that the former US president's family organisation did not exploit the value of its properties to win profitable financing.

"This is a witch hunt. This is election interference at a level that has never seen before, comes out of the DOJ (Department of Justice) in the White House in order to hurt a political opponent. And actually, it's driving up my polls because the people of our country get it," Trump said while talking to reporters.&nbsp;

"The poll numbers are the highest I've ever had, and the people of our country get it. It's a disgrace to America," he further added.

During his trial, Trump called the judge Arthur Engoron, who is overseeing the trial,&nbsp;"crazy" and "unhinged," and denounced New York State Attorney General Letitia James as "corrupt" and "racist."

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“The Attorney General committed fraud. You just saw it right up there. She's a fraud. This whole case is a fraud. It’s election interference. It’s keeping me here instead of Iowa and New Hampshire. You just saw it – the Attorney General’s a fraud. She committed fraud.”&nbsp;

Engoron has previously ruled that Trump and his sons exploited financial statements to deceive banks and insurers into delivering better loan and insurance tenures.

New York Attorney General Letitia James is seeking $250 million in penalties and wants to get Trump banned from New York state real estate business.

Trump is expected to testify as the final defence witness on Monday (Dec 11). He has denied wrongdoing and says James, an elected Democrat, is biased against him.

"This is weaponization of justice," he said on Thursday. "It's a sad day for our country that a thing like this can take place. I'm sitting in a courthouse instead of being in Iowa where I should be, even though I'm leading by about 40 points."

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 7) appeared at a New York court to attend his ongoing civil fraud trial, where he condemned the process as unfair.

Former US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 7) appeared at a New York court to attend his ongoing civil fraud trial, where he condemned the process as unfair. The frontrunner for the next year's Republican presidential nomination, along with his two eldest sons, has been accused of boosting the value of his real estate purchases to acquire more favourable bank loans and insurance terms. His defence team is asserting that the former US president's family organisation did not exploit the value of its properties to win profitable financing. "This is a witch hunt. This is election interference at a level that has never seen before, comes out of the DOJ (Department of Justice) in the White House in order to hurt a political opponent. And actually, it's driving up my polls because the people of our country get it," Trump said while talking to reporters. "The poll numbers are the highest I've ever had, and the people of our country get it. It's a disgrace to America," he further added. During his trial, Trump called the judge Arthur Engoron, who is overseeing the trial, "crazy" and "unhinged," and denounced New York State Attorney General Letitia James as "corrupt" and "racist." Also read: Biden underlines 'critical need to protect civilians' in call with Netanyahu “The Attorney General committed fraud. You just saw it right up there. She's a fraud. This whole case is a fraud. It’s election interference. It’s keeping me here instead of Iowa and New Hampshire. You just saw it – the Attorney General’s a fraud. She committed fraud.” Engoron has previously ruled that Trump and his sons exploited financial statements to deceive banks and insurers into delivering better loan and insurance tenures. New York Attorney General Letitia James is seeking $250 million in penalties and wants to get Trump banned from New York state real estate business. Trump is expected to testify as the final defence witness on Monday (Dec 11). He has denied wrongdoing and says James, an elected Democrat, is biased against him. "This is weaponization of justice," he said on Thursday. "It's a sad day for our country that a thing like this can take place. I'm sitting in a courthouse instead of being in Iowa where I should be, even though I'm leading by about 40 points." (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump appears in New York court, calls fraud trial 'witch hunt and corrupt'

UAE Ambassador to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali, conveyed his optimism about the ongoing COP28 climate summit in Dubai, emphasizing the UAE's proactive approach. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We make things happen. And this is something that the UAE has been known for. So we don't just come out with big announcements or big initiatives that we want to work on or we want to target". The summit has seen several declarations so far, including agreement on loss and damage fund for which UAE contributed $100 million. He dismissed concerns about an oil-producing nation hosting such a summit, asserting, "by being able to achieve such a milestone...we can be both and we can make sure that all countries can have some sort of an agreement with those multiple declarations." On the Indian PM's participation in the climate summit, Alshaali stated it was a "testament to the relationship between the two countries," particularly with both nations co-hosting the Global Green Credit Initiative. He also extended his country's support to India's bid to host the 2028 COP33 summit.

"We make things happen", UAE Envoy Abdulnasser Alshaali upbeat on COP28's progress

India's Monetary Policy committee decided to unanimously keep the key policy rates unchanged as growth in the world's fastest-growing major economy is resilient. While the outlook for inflation remains uncertain.

India keeps key rate unchanged despite the risk of inflation and rapid growth

Russian President conveyed his desire to run for president again. Putin told soldiers who had fought in Ukraine that he will run again in the 2024 election. After Putin awarded Ukraine, war veterans, with Russia's highest military honour.The Hero of Russia's gold star, a lieutenant colonel named Artyom Zhoga asked Putin to run again for President. On this, Putin told the soldier that he would run again in the 2024 election

Russian President Putin to run for presidential elections again in 2024

President Xi Jinping will visit neighbouring Vietnam next week to push for deeper ties between the socialist neighbours. According to officials, the visit is from December 12 to 13. Xi's state visit is expected to promote partnership between China and Vietnam. According to officials, the two countries will focus on areas of political security, multilateral and maritime issues. China is Vie

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Vietnam

After six months of decline, China's exports grew in November. This however does not offer the full picture. Rising exports show that factories are offering discounts to beat falling demand.

China's exports grow 0.5% in November compared to last year

With the stormy Indian Parliament winter session ongoing, the country's Supreme Court is set to deliver its verdict on the validity of the scrapping of Article 370 of the Constitution. The Indian government on 5 August 2019 abrogated Article 370 of the Consitution and completed the reorganisation of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories, namely Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

India: Supreme Court to deliver verdict on Article 370 abrogation on Dec 11

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, during his talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, accused the West of backing Israel's "genocide" against the Palestinians in Gaza.

Putin met Raisi in the Kremlin a day after visiting the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, where he had a discussion with leaders over the upsurge in violence in Gaza as well as in Ukraine along with the efforts carried out by Russian and OPEC to boost the prices of oil.

In their televised remarks, both leaders did not mention the growing military cooperation between the two countries, which has been a matter of concern for the United States, which claims that Iran is providing &nbsp;Russia with weapons to use in its war against Ukraine.

Putin stated that discussing the current situation in the Middle East, especially in the Palestinian territories, is the need of the hour.

Raisi responded via a translator: "What is happening in Palestine and Gaza is of course genocide and a crime against humanity." He said it was "even more sad" that this was supported by the United States and the West.

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Iran has strongly voiced support for the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is the ruling authority in Gaza, in its war against Israel. Russia has relations with all the key players in the region including Hamas and Israel, which it angered by hosting a Hamas delegation in Moscow in October.

Putin said that the sight of suffering and bloodied children in Gaza makes "tears come to your eyes", however, Western governments dubbed his remarks as hypocritical when Putin's forces have claimed the lives of thousands of civilians in Ukraine.

Earlier, the Kremlin said that Russia and Iran were developing relations, "including in the field of military-technical cooperation", but declined to comment on a suggestion by the White House that Iran may be considering providing Russia with ballistic missiles.

White House spokesman John Kirby on Wednesday dubbed the rapidly growing defence relationship as "worrisome".

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, during his talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, accused the West of backing Israel's "genocide" against the Palestinians in Gaza.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, during his talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, accused the West of backing Israel's "genocide" against the Palestinians in Gaza. Putin met Raisi in the Kremlin a day after visiting the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, where he had a discussion with leaders over the upsurge in violence in Gaza as well as in Ukraine along with the efforts carried out by Russian and OPEC to boost the prices of oil. In their televised remarks, both leaders did not mention the growing military cooperation between the two countries, which has been a matter of concern for the United States, which claims that Iran is providing Russia with weapons to use in its war against Ukraine. Putin stated that discussing the current situation in the Middle East, especially in the Palestinian territories, is the need of the hour. Raisi responded via a translator: "What is happening in Palestine and Gaza is of course genocide and a crime against humanity." He said it was "even more sad" that this was supported by the United States and the West. Also read: Putin praises India, says PM Modi 'guarantor' of stronger Moscow-Delhi ties Iran has strongly voiced support for the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is the ruling authority in Gaza, in its war against Israel. Russia has relations with all the key players in the region including Hamas and Israel, which it angered by hosting a Hamas delegation in Moscow in October. Putin said that the sight of suffering and bloodied children in Gaza makes "tears come to your eyes", however, Western governments dubbed his remarks as hypocritical when Putin's forces have claimed the lives of thousands of civilians in Ukraine. Earlier, the Kremlin said that Russia and Iran were developing relations, "including in the field of military-technical cooperation", but declined to comment on a suggestion by the White House that Iran may be considering providing Russia with ballistic missiles. White House spokesman John Kirby on Wednesday dubbed the rapidly growing defence relationship as "worrisome". (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian President Raisi accuses West of backing Israel's 'genocide' during talks with Putin

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hezbollah not to initiate a third Lebanon war with Israel, hours after the Iranian proxy group guided missile attack killed a 60-year-old Israeli man in northern Israel.

Netanyahu says Israel will turn Beirut into Gaza if Hezbollah starts war

US sees India as a strategic partner but in the alleged plot to murder Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the US washington is now urging new delhi that those behind the murder plot of the Khalistani terrorist need to be held accountable.

US urges India those behind Pannun murder plot to be held accountable | World DNA

An eight-week-old sea otter pup was found alone in October in dire conditions in the remote town of Seldovia, Alaska. The Pup EL2306 was malnourished and was brought to the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward.&nbsp;

Now, he is in the nursery at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium, which is one of only a few facilities in the United States with the resources to care for rescued otters. It arrived in Chicago at the end of November.&nbsp;

Alaska SeaLife Center contacted the aquarium and the aquarium's otter team travelled cross-country with the otter.&nbsp;

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As quoted by the news agency, Lana Gonzalez, a manager of penguins and otters at Shedd, said: "Caring for a little otter pup is just like caring for an infant," including round-the-clock feeding.&nbsp;

Gonzalez added, "He also needs to get groomed. Sea otters have a very dense coat — there's anywhere from 700,000 to a million hairs per square inch, and that's what they use to keep themselves warm. They don't have a thick layer of blubber or fat like other marine mammals do, so taking care of that coat is very important."&nbsp;

Otter babies learn lessons from their mothers, especially about grooming. Since Pup EL2306 was found alone, the aquarium team helped it by acting in the place of its&nbsp;mother. The team encourages the pup's healthy development.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ancient-egyptians-didnt-treat-the-baboons-right-and-we-have-proof-667225">Ancient Egypt's sacred baboons were not treated right, and we have proof</a>&nbsp;

Otter supervisor Tracy Deakins entered the pup's habitat on Wednesday with clean white towels and persuaded him to leave the water.&nbsp;As per the report, Deakins pointed to various areas of his fur, and the pup responded by licking or rubbing them.&nbsp;

AP reported that the pup will remain in Shedd's Regenstein Sea Otter Nursery for a few months, building bonds with the staff. The pup will eventually be introduced to the otter habitat and the five other otters at the aquarium.&nbsp;

Gonzalez said, "Once we bring him into our care he won't be released back out into the natural environment, they're just too used to people. But the good news is that he'll be able to be an ambassador for his species here at the aquarium, so we're really happy about that."&nbsp;

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)

An eight-week-old sea otter pup was found alone in October in dire conditions in the remote town of Seldovia, Alaska. The Pup EL2306 was malnourished and was brought to the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward.

An eight-week-old sea otter pup was found alone in October in dire conditions in the remote town of Seldovia, Alaska. The Pup EL2306 was malnourished and was brought to the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward. Now, he is in the nursery at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium, which is one of only a few facilities in the United States with the resources to care for rescued otters. It arrived in Chicago at the end of November. Alaska SeaLife Center contacted the aquarium and the aquarium's otter team travelled cross-country with the otter. Also read: Vegan diet behind troubled pregnancy? Here's what researchers think As quoted by the news agency, Lana Gonzalez, a manager of penguins and otters at Shedd, said: "Caring for a little otter pup is just like caring for an infant," including round-the-clock feeding. Gonzalez added, "He also needs to get groomed. Sea otters have a very dense coat — there's anywhere from 700,000 to a million hairs per square inch, and that's what they use to keep themselves warm. They don't have a thick layer of blubber or fat like other marine mammals do, so taking care of that coat is very important." Otter babies learn lessons from their mothers, especially about grooming. Since Pup EL2306 was found alone, the aquarium team helped it by acting in the place of its mother. The team encourages the pup's healthy development. Also read: Ancient Egypt's sacred baboons were not treated right, and we have proof Otter supervisor Tracy Deakins entered the pup's habitat on Wednesday with clean white towels and persuaded him to leave the water. As per the report, Deakins pointed to various areas of his fur, and the pup responded by licking or rubbing them. AP reported that the pup will remain in Shedd's Regenstein Sea Otter Nursery for a few months, building bonds with the staff. The pup will eventually be introduced to the otter habitat and the five other otters at the aquarium. Gonzalez said, "Once we bring him into our care he won't be released back out into the natural environment, they're just too used to people. But the good news is that he'll be able to be an ambassador for his species here at the aquarium, so we're really happy about that." (With inputs from agencies)

This sea otter pup was found alone in Alaska. Chicago aquarium is its new home now

A second wartime winter has arrived in Ukraine and the country is working to make sure this one is not as difficult as last year’s, when Russian shelling caused severe damage to the power grid and heat delivery systems. Funding to counter China in the Pacific is now caught in the Congressional battle in Washington over foreign aid and border security. The White House calls the package a “critical component” of its National Security strategy.

Funding to counter China in the Pacific caught in Congressional battle

Italy has withdrawn from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), more than four years after becoming the only Group of Seven (G7) nation to sign up.

Italy withdraws from BRI, China calls act 'smearing'

Russian President Vladimir Putin continues his blitz round of West Asia diplomacy as hosts his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi in Moscow. The meeting comes against the backdrop of Putin's visits to UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Russian President Putin hosts Iran's Raisi as Russia looks east

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