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The Indonesian wildfires are threatening the release of millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and methane into the atmosphere. Borneo's wildfires are burning through the world's largest tropical peatland ecosystems that are hiding ancient carbon inside them. As the fires burn through the 4.5-million-hectare swathe of forest, these carbon deposits could explode, thus also lending the peats the name of "carbon bomb."&nbsp;Scientists say carbon accumulates under these peatlands over thousands of years, making them a crucial reserve of the element. But this carbon can rapidly release into the atmosphere when they are burned, turning them into a carbon bomb. "Tropical peatlands in Indonesia are among the world's most effective natural carbon stores," Dr Nisa Novita, a peatland researcher at Indonesian conservation NGO Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN), told BBC.<h2>6,000 tonnes of carbon beneath the peats</h2>Peat deposits exceed 20 metres in depth in certain areas in Kalimantan, the Indonesian portion of the island of Borneo that is being ravaged by wildfires. According to experts, such depths could harbour more than 6,000 tonnes of carbon, almost the same as CO₂ emissions of 4,800 cars in a year. Nearly 200,000 hectares of forest and farmland across Indonesian Borneo have already released a huge amount of carbon.&nbsp;&nbsp;The forest fires in Indonesia have spread a toxic haze over Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines. Air pollution levels have reached 75 times the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO).<h2>Toxic gases shroud massive areas&nbsp;</h2>According to Indonesia's Health Ministry, 50,000 cases of respiratory infections were recorded in the country between July and August, including 12,000 children. The emissions are coming from the peat fires, with carbon monoxide and very fine particulate matter being inhaled by people in the region. Volunteer firefighters are risking their lives to put out the blaze in the peat. They are digging ponds and canals to make ad hoc irrigation systems to combat subterranean fires.&nbsp;Fuelled by strong El Niño dry conditions, wildfires have gripped Sumatra and Kalimantan (Borneo). Over 200,000 to 285,000 hectares have burned across the region since the start of the year. Emissions reached the highest levels in August in decades. Over 10 million people have been affected, with local health authorities reporting tens of thousands of acute respiratory infections.

Peatlands burning in Kalimantan, the Indonesian portion of Borneo, have triggered the release of ancient carbon accumulated over thousands of years. Local people are fighting the blazes, inhaling toxic gases that have shrouded regions in Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines.

The Indonesian wildfires are threatening the release of millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and methane into the atmosphere. Borneo's wildfires are burning through the world's largest tropical peatland ecosystems that are hiding ancient carbon inside them. As the fires burn through the 4.5-million-hectare swathe of forest, these carbon deposits could explode, thus also lending the peats the name of "carbon bomb." Scientists say carbon accumulates under these peatlands over thousands of years, making them a crucial reserve of the element. But this carbon can rapidly release into the atmosphere when they are burned, turning them into a carbon bomb. "Tropical peatlands in Indonesia are among the world's most effective natural carbon stores," Dr Nisa Novita, a peatland researcher at Indonesian conservation NGO Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN), told BBC. 6,000 tonnes of carbon beneath the peats Peat deposits exceed 20 metres in depth in certain areas in Kalimantan, the Indonesian portion of the island of Borneo that is being ravaged by wildfires. According to experts, such depths could harbour more than 6,000 tonnes of carbon, almost the same as CO₂ emissions of 4,800 cars in a year. Nearly 200,000 hectares of forest and farmland across Indonesian Borneo have already released a huge amount of carbon. The forest fires in Indonesia have spread a toxic haze over Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines. Air pollution levels have reached 75 times the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO). Toxic gases shroud massive areas According to Indonesia's Health Ministry, 50,000 cases of respiratory infections were recorded in the country between July and August, including 12,000 children. The emissions are coming from the peat fires, with carbon monoxide and very fine particulate matter being inhaled by people in the region. Volunteer firefighters are risking their lives to put out the blaze in the peat. They are digging ponds and canals to make ad hoc irrigation systems to combat subterranean fires. Fuelled by strong El Niño dry conditions, wildfires have gripped Sumatra and Kalimantan (Borneo). Over 200,000 to 285,000 hectares have burned across the region since the start of the year. Emissions reached the highest levels in August in decades. Over 10 million people have been affected, with local health authorities reporting tens of thousands of acute respiratory infections.

Peatlands burning in Kalimantan, the Indonesian portion of Borneo, have triggered the release of ancient carbon accumulated over thousands of years. Local people are fighting the blazes, inhaling toxic gases that have shrouded regions in Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines.

Indonesia wildfires: 'Carbon bomb' sickens millions as wildfires ravage ancient reserves

More than a century after magnetic levitation was first conceptualised by early 20th-century inventors, the dream of wingless flight on rails has matured into an intense geopolitical race. In East Asia, floating trains travelling at a staggering 370 mph (600 km/h) are positioning high-speed rail to rival commercial air travel.&nbsp;At the centre of this technological leap are China and Japan, two nations leveraging advanced electromagnetic physics to redefine ground transport. A commercial flight throttles at 550 mph (885 km/h), and the maglev train can almost fly at 370 mph (600 km/h), contrary to the standard high-speed variant, which zooms at 217 mph (350 km/h).&nbsp;<h3>VIDEO OF THE TRAIN</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Reporter left speechless after witnessing Japan&#39;s new $70 million Maglev train in action at 310 mph <a href="https://t.co/y2BhRar7yY">pic.twitter.com/y2BhRar7yY</a>&mdash; Today In History (@historigins) <a href="https://x.com/historigins/status/1995542338362307000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stunned-by-china-s-engineering-marvel-elon-musk-shares-post-of-world-s-biggest-train-station-built-near-beijing-in-2-years-1779110455846">Stunned by China’s engineering marvel? Elon Musk shares post of world’s biggest train station built near Beijing in 2 years</a><h2>China’s Mega-Network Vision</h2>State-backed manufacturer CRRC rolled out a 370 mph (600 km/h) maglev train prototype built to bridge the gap between traditional bullet trains and aviation. Running on electromagnetic suspension, the vessel glides millimetres above its guide track without mechanical friction. China’s engineers have worked through complex aerodynamic hurdles such as designing porous, shock-absorbing tunnel buffers to eliminate ‘tunnel boom’ air compression when entering tight mountain passages at top speeds.&nbsp;If deployed on the high-density Beijing-to-Shanghai corridor, the 370 mph (600 km/h) maglev would slash travel times from roughly four hours down to 2.5 hours, matching door-to-door flight schedules while dramatically cutting carbon emissions.<h2>Japan’s Engineering Frontier</h2>Japan, which pioneered modern bullet trains with the Shinkansen, is countering with its Chuo Shinkansen line. Built on Superconducting Magnetic Levitation (SCMAGLEV) technology, Japanese test trains hit a record-breaking 375 mph (603 km/h) on experimental tracks.&nbsp;Designed to link Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, Japan's system uses powerful niobium-titanium magnets cooled to ultra-low temperatures, enabling stable levitation over a 10-centimeter gap. The line will cut the Tokyo-to-Nagoya trip to just 40 minutes and extend to Osaka in roughly an hour.&nbsp;For nearly 100 years, maglev remained constrained by astronomical infrastructure costs, complex power demands, and severe structural engineering requirements. Today, both nations view 370-mph (600 km/h) ground transportation not just as an engineering spectacle but as essential national infrastructure designed to decongest domestic airspace, link economic megaregions, and export world-leading transit technology globally.&nbsp;As these floating bullet trains move from experimental tracks to major transit hubs, the future of intercity travel is arriving at near-sonic speeds.&nbsp;

China and Japan are locked in a high-stakes geopolitical race to deploy 370-mph maglev trains, leveraging superconducting magnets and advanced aerodynamics to rival commercial air travel.

More than a century after magnetic levitation was first conceptualised by early 20th-century inventors, the dream of wingless flight on rails has matured into an intense geopolitical race. In East Asia, floating trains travelling at a staggering 370 mph (600 km/h) are positioning high-speed rail to rival commercial air travel. At the centre of this technological leap are China and Japan, two nations leveraging advanced electromagnetic physics to redefine ground transport. A commercial flight throttles at 550 mph (885 km/h), and the maglev train can almost fly at 370 mph (600 km/h), contrary to the standard high-speed variant, which zooms at 217 mph (350 km/h). VIDEO OF THE TRAIN

China and Japan are locked in a high-stakes geopolitical race to deploy 370-mph maglev trains, leveraging superconducting magnets and advanced aerodynamics to rival commercial air travel.

Faster than planes? China and Japan’s 600kmph maglevs trains aim to replace air travel

BRICS has evolved from an economic acronym coined by Goldman Sachs into a major forum for political, economic and diplomatic cooperation among countries of the Global South, with its 18th summit set to be hosted in Delhi this weekend. The history of BRICS spans 25 years, while it has crossed two decades as a formal grouping. Starting with four emerging economies, it currently boasts of 11 full members and a growing network of partner countries. Here is a timeline tracing that story:<h2>2001, when the BRIC idea was born</h2>It was Goldman Sachs economist Jim O’Neill who coined the term BRIC in a 2001 research paper, referring to Brazil, Russia, India and China. O’Neill argued in the paper that these four emerging economies could become increasingly important forces in the global economy in coming years.<h2>2006, the year BRIC started formal cooperation</h2>The four countries mentioned in the paper began developing BRIC as a political grouping in 2006. An inaugural foreign ministers’ meeting was held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Russia, India and China had also met earlier that year during the G8 Outreach Summit in St Petersburg.<h2>2009: The first BRIC summit is held</h2>The first BRIC leaders’ summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia, on 16 June 2009. Leaders of the member nations called for reform of international financial institutions and greater representation for emerging economies in global decision-making.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-delhi-traffic-restrictions-begin-ahead-of-foreign-leaders-arrival-1788617087244/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-delhi-traffic-restrictions-begin-ahead-of-foreign-leaders-arrival-1788617087244/embed</a><h2>2010: South Africa joins, turning BRIC to BRICS</h2>The second summit of the group was held in Brazil's capital Brasília in April 2010. Later that year, South Africa was invited to join. &nbsp;South Africa attended the summit at Sanya, China, in April 2011 as a full member, &nbsp;transforming BRIC into BRICS.<h2>The New Development Bank takes shape: 2012-2015</h2>Discussions were held at the fourth BRICS summit in New Delhi in 2012 for a new development bank. The idea advanced at the 2013 Durban summit. &nbsp;At the 2014 Fortaleza summit, BRICS members signed agreements for creating the New Development Bank and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement. The NDB became operational in 2015, with the Ufa summit that year vowing to strengthen economic cooperation.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2026-how-four-chairmanships-reshaped-india-s-global-strategy-1788678978071">BRICS Summit 2026: How four chairmanships reshaped India’s global strategy</a><h2>2016-2019: A period of expansion for BRICS ideas and agenda</h2>The idea and agenda of BRICS expanded in the 2016-19 period. The 2016 summit was hosted by India in Goa. China hosted the Xiamen summit in 2017, while South Africa hosted the Johannesburg summit in 2018. &nbsp;Brazil hosted the 2019 summit in Brasília. These meetings expanded the BRICS Plus and outreach formats.<h2>2020-2022: Cooperation during global pandemic disruption&nbsp;</h2>The 2020 summit was held virtually amid the COVID-19 pandemic. India chaired the virtual summit in 2021, followed by China in 2022. It was a period in which focus shifted to global governance reforms, economic cooperation and the possibility of expanding membership.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-2026-twelve-years-after-fortaleza-inside-shanghai-s-ndb-bank-1788689690516">BRICS 2026: Twelve years after Fortaleza, inside Shanghai’s NDB bank</a><h2>2023-24: Major expansion of BRICS into 10 members</h2>At the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, leaders invited Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to join the grouping from 1 January 2024. Argentina subsequently declined the invitation.Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the UAE formally joined in January 2024. Saudi Arabia was also included in official BRICS membership lists.&nbsp;The expanded group's leaders met at the 16th summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. This summit also saw the creation of the new BRICS partner-country category.<h2>2025: Indonesia joins as the 11th member, as partner country list expands&nbsp;</h2>Indonesia became BRICS’ 11th full member in January 2025. BRICS also welcomed nine partner countries: Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda and Uzbekistan. Later, Vietnam became the 10th partner country.The 17th summit was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in July 2025, which saw the adoption of 126 commitments covering global governance, finance, health, artificial intelligence and climate change.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/global-turbulence-and-brics-2026-can-intra-brics-trade-replace-the-west-1788763855320">Global turbulence and BRICS 2026: Can intra-BRICS trade replace the West?</a><h2>2026: India takes the chairship of BRICS</h2>India assumed the BRICS chairship on 1 January 2026 for the fourth time. Its theme is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, with a people-centric approach rooted in “Humanity First”. During its chairship, India held more than 350 meetings and high-level engagements across more than 25 cities. Under India's chairship, the 18th BRICS Summit will be held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 12-13 September 2026.&nbsp;Two decades of BRICS: A unique forum&nbsp;The Delhi summit is taking place as BRICS marks two decades as a formal group. It is a unique forum in that there's no constitutive treaty, permanent secretariat, or common budget. It's a bloc built on consensus, with members finding areas of agreement and working together on those, even when there are differences among them on several bilateral issues. The growing membership and expanding partnerships are a testimony that BRICS has stood the test of time.&nbsp;

In two decades, BRICS has grown from a 2001 economic acronym into an 11-member Global South grouping. The powerful bloc now boasts of a New Development Bank and an expanded partner nation list. Let's trace that story as India hosts the 18th BRICS summit in Delhi.

BRICS has evolved from an economic acronym coined by Goldman Sachs into a major forum for political, economic and diplomatic cooperation among countries of the Global South, with its 18th summit set to be hosted in Delhi this weekend. The history of BRICS spans 25 years, while it has crossed two decades as a formal grouping. Starting with four emerging economies, it currently boasts of 11 full members and a growing network of partner countries. Here is a timeline tracing that story: 2001, when the BRIC idea was born It was Goldman Sachs economist Jim O’Neill who coined the term BRIC in a 2001 research paper, referring to Brazil, Russia, India and China. O’Neill argued in the paper that these four emerging economies could become increasingly important forces in the global economy in coming years. 2006, the year BRIC started formal cooperation The four countries mentioned in the paper began developing BRIC as a political grouping in 2006. An inaugural foreign ministers’ meeting was held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Russia, India and China had also met earlier that year during the G8 Outreach Summit in St Petersburg. 2009: The first BRIC summit is held The first BRIC leaders’ summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia, on 16 June 2009. Leaders of the member nations called for reform of international financial institutions and greater representation for emerging economies in global decision-making. https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-delhi-traffic-restrictions-begin-ahead-of-foreign-leaders-arrival-1788617087244/embed 2010: South Africa joins, turning BRIC to BRICS The second summit of the group was held in Brazil's capital Brasília in April 2010. Later that year, South Africa was invited to join. South Africa attended the summit at Sanya, China, in April 2011 as a full member, transforming BRIC into BRICS. The New Development Bank takes shape: 2012-2015 Discussions were held at the fourth BRICS summit in New Delhi in 2012 for a new development bank. The idea advanced at the 2013 Durban summit. At the 2014 Fortaleza summit, BRICS members signed agreements for creating the New Development Bank and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement. The NDB became operational in 2015, with the Ufa summit that year vowing to strengthen economic cooperation. Also read: BRICS Summit 2026: How four chairmanships reshaped India’s global strategy 2016-2019: A period of expansion for BRICS ideas and agenda The idea and agenda of BRICS expanded in the 2016-19 period. The 2016 summit was hosted by India in Goa. China hosted the Xiamen summit in 2017, while South Africa hosted the Johannesburg summit in 2018. Brazil hosted the 2019 summit in Brasília. These meetings expanded the BRICS Plus and outreach formats. 2020-2022: Cooperation during global pandemic disruption The 2020 summit was held virtually amid the COVID-19 pandemic. India chaired the virtual summit in 2021, followed by China in 2022. It was a period in which focus shifted to global governance reforms, economic cooperation and the possibility of expanding membership. Also read: BRICS 2026: Twelve years after Fortaleza, inside Shanghai’s NDB bank 2023-24: Major expansion of BRICS into 10 members At the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, leaders invited Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to join the grouping from 1 January 2024. Argentina subsequently declined the invitation. Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the UAE formally joined in January 2024. Saudi Arabia was also included in official BRICS membership lists. The expanded group's leaders met at the 16th summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. This summit also saw the creation of the new BRICS partner-country category. 2025: Indonesia joins as the 11th member, as partner country list expands Indonesia became BRICS’ 11th full member in January 2025. BRICS also welcomed nine partner countries: Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda and Uzbekistan. Later, Vietnam became the 10th partner country. The 17th summit was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in July 2025, which saw the adoption of 126 commitments covering global governance, finance, health, artificial intelligence and climate change. Also read: Global turbulence and BRICS 2026: Can intra-BRICS trade replace the West? 2026: India takes the chairship of BRICS India assumed the BRICS chairship on 1 January 2026 for the fourth time. Its theme is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, with a people-centric approach rooted in “Humanity First”. During its chairship, India held more than 350 meetings and high-level engagements across more than 25 cities. Under India's chairship, the 18th BRICS Summit will be held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 12-13 September 2026. Two decades of BRICS: A unique forum The Delhi summit is taking place as BRICS marks two decades as a formal group. It is a unique forum in that there's no constitutive treaty, permanent secretariat, or common budget. It's a bloc built on consensus, with members finding areas of agreement and working together on those, even when there are differences among them on several bilateral issues. The growing membership and expanding partnerships are a testimony that BRICS has stood the test of time.

In two decades, BRICS has grown from a 2001 economic acronym into an 11-member Global South grouping. The powerful bloc now boasts of a New Development Bank and an expanded partner nation list. Let's trace that story as India hosts the 18th BRICS summit in Delhi.

How BRICS evolved in 20 years: Full timeline of members, expansion and major summits

Rarely has a BRICS Chairmanship arrived amid so much simultaneous turbulence. As India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam on 12-13 September 2026, under the theme ‘Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability’, the grouping finds itself navigating a Russia-Ukraine war that refuses to end, an Iran-Israel-US crisis that has already claimed the life of Iran’s Supreme Leader, a US Congress moving to weaponise tariffs against Russian oil buyers, a Sino-Indian relationship only cautiously thawing after years of border tension and outcome of SCO 2026. Global turbulence, in other words, is not merely the backdrop to BRICS 2026; it has become the agenda.<h2>A sequence not of India's choosing, but to India's advantage: Impact of SCO 2026</h2>The 26th SCO Summit at Bishkek, held barely ten days before Bharat Mandapam, has effectively become a dress rehearsal for BRICS. The Bishkek Declaration condemned the US-Israel strikes on Iran, mourned the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, backed a just settlement on Palestine, and reaffirmed a “representative, democratic and equitable multipolar world order.” Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian personally asked Prime Minister Modi, in his capacity as incoming BRICS Chair, to help build a common position against US-Israeli military action.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since BRICS contains Iran alongside the more US-aligned UAE and Saudi Arabia, the same fault line that surfaced at Bishkek will resurface, in sharper form, at the BRICS table. Yet the sequencing works in India’s favour rather than against it. Having already co-signed Bishkek’s language on multipolarity and non-discriminatory trade, New Delhi arrives at its own Summit with a tested template for balancing Global South solidarity against its own strategic autonomy vis-à-vis Washington. Over 350 preparatory meetings across 25-plus cities this year testify to a chairmanship that has been methodical rather than reactive, the diplomatic equivalent of India’s subtraction and addition strategy: subtracting friction points before they harden into disputes, while adding areas of convergence the grouping can act upon together.<h2>The tariff weapon and the limits of collective retaliation</h2>The most immediate turbulence is economic. The Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, passed by the US Senate, authorises tariffs of up to 100 per cent on the largest importers of Russian oil and gas, a measure that would strike directly at India, China and, depending on final designation, Brazil. It is legislation dressed as Ukraine policy but built, as several US analysts have noted, to double as general-purpose tariff leverage against precisely the economies BRICS represents.&nbsp;Can BRICS respond as a bloc? The economics counsel caution. Intra-BRICS merchandise trade runs at roughly USD 700-800 billion annually, against combined BRICS trade with the US and EU exceeding USD 5 trillion. No BRICS economy, including China’s, is prepared to sacrifice Western market access for bloc solidarity. What the tariff threat can do, paradoxically, is accelerate what internal diplomacy has struggled to achieve: greater coordination on payment systems, supply chains and financial cooperation, precisely because external coercion, when it targets multiple members simultaneously, narrows the space for free-riding. The lesson for BRICS is unambiguous, intra-BRICS trade must expand substantially if the grouping is to develop genuine resilience against an economic hegemon acting alone.<h2>Xi's possible visit and the China variable</h2>Adding to the turbulence is the prospect of Xi Jinping’s first visit to India since 2019, pre-dating the deadly Galwan clash of 2020. A delegation of some 400 officials is reportedly being readied, even as reports of a fresh border friction point complicate the atmospherics and India’s top security official has been in Beijing for talks. If the visit materialises, it will be read globally as a signal that the India-China relationship is entering a phase of competitive coexistence rather than open confrontation, correct diplomacy for both capitals, given that neither benefits from a permanently frozen bilateral track feeding into a wider “Cold War 2.0” narrative that neither India nor China wishes to be boxed into.&nbsp;This matters for BRICS because the China-India contradiction remains, as I have argued elsewhere, the grouping’s most consequential internal tension. Beijing increasingly treats BRICS as a pillar of an alternative architecture reducing Western influence; New Delhi insists on a genuinely multipolar Asia rather than a China-centric one, and on BRICS as a reform platform rather than an anti-Western instrument. A cordial Modi-Xi meeting at the margins of Bharat Mandapam would not resolve that contradiction, but it would demonstrate that BRICS’s consensus-based model can still accommodate rival visions without capsizing, itself a form of concirclement, in which India manages competing power centres around it rather than being encircled by their rivalries.<h2>Energy security: The silent common thread</h2>Running beneath the geopolitics is a shared, less discussed vulnerability – energy security. Any escalation that threatens the Strait of Hormuz strikes directly at India’s oil import bill and inflation, and at similar exposures across China, and much of the Global South that BRICS claims to represent. The Bishkek statements on energy cooperation and India’s own MoUs on climate and connectivity are not separate from this turbulence; they are hedges against it. Chabahar Port, discussed in Prime Minister Modi’s sideline meeting with Iran’s President, and India’s continued, calibrated purchase of discounted Russian crude despite tariff threats, both reflect the same underlying calculus: energy security first, ideological alignment a distant second.<h2>Calibrated activism as the only viable course</h2>None of this turbulence is likely to derail the Summit’s declared, deliberately non-controversial themes of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability. The harder question is whether members will stay within those bounds once they are in the room together, given how many of them arrive carrying grievances, Iran’s demand for solidarity against the US and Israel, Russia’s search for sanctions relief, and China’s institutional ambitions for BRICS as counterweight to the West all sit uneasily against India’s preference for a reform-not-confrontation agenda. India’s answer has to be calibrated activism: firm enough to hold the chair’s agenda together, restrained enough not to let BRICS be captured by any single member’s confrontation with the West. This is consistent with New Delhi’s parallel engagement with the G20, the Quad and the SCO, competitive coexistence with all major poles rather than exclusive alignment with any one of them.<h2>Conclusion</h2>BRICS at twenty was already navigating internal contradictions of size, ideology and economic asymmetry. BRICS in 2026 must do so while absorbing external shocks, war, assassination, tariff coercion and great-power rivalry, arriving almost simultaneously. That the grouping’s chair this year is a nation practised in balancing exactly these pressures, and that its Summit follows so closely on the SCO’s own test of the same balancing act, is more opportunity than accident. Whether Bharat Mandapam converts turbulence into cohesion, or merely papers over it for another year, will depend on India’s ability to keep BRICS anchored to its founding purpose: reform of an unrepresentative global order, not participation in a new bloc confrontation. That, ultimately, is the measure by which this Chairmanship, and this Summit, should be judged.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260907/image-1788764142553.png"></figure>

India's 2026 BRICS Chairmanship culminates at Bharat Mandapam amid a rare convergence of crises, a Russia-Ukraine war without end, an Iran-Israel-US confrontation, punitive US tariff legislation aimed at Russian oil buyers, and a cautiously thawing Sino-Indian relationship

Rarely has a BRICS Chairmanship arrived amid so much simultaneous turbulence. As India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam on 12-13 September 2026, under the theme ‘Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability’, the grouping finds itself navigating a Russia-Ukraine war that refuses to end, an Iran-Israel-US crisis that has already claimed the life of Iran’s Supreme Leader, a US Congress moving to weaponise tariffs against Russian oil buyers, a Sino-Indian relationship only cautiously thawing after years of border tension and outcome of SCO 2026. Global turbulence, in other words, is not merely the backdrop to BRICS 2026; it has become the agenda. A sequence not of India's choosing, but to India's advantage: Impact of SCO 2026 The 26th SCO Summit at Bishkek, held barely ten days before Bharat Mandapam, has effectively become a dress rehearsal for BRICS. The Bishkek Declaration condemned the US-Israel strikes on Iran, mourned the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, backed a just settlement on Palestine, and reaffirmed a “representative, democratic and equitable multipolar world order.” Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian personally asked Prime Minister Modi, in his capacity as incoming BRICS Chair, to help build a common position against US-Israeli military action. Since BRICS contains Iran alongside the more US-aligned UAE and Saudi Arabia, the same fault line that surfaced at Bishkek will resurface, in sharper form, at the BRICS table. Yet the sequencing works in India’s favour rather than against it. Having already co-signed Bishkek’s language on multipolarity and non-discriminatory trade, New Delhi arrives at its own Summit with a tested template for balancing Global South solidarity against its own strategic autonomy vis-à-vis Washington. Over 350 preparatory meetings across 25-plus cities this year testify to a chairmanship that has been methodical rather than reactive, the diplomatic equivalent of India’s subtraction and addition strategy: subtracting friction points before they harden into disputes, while adding areas of convergence the grouping can act upon together. The tariff weapon and the limits of collective retaliation The most immediate turbulence is economic. The Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, passed by the US Senate, authorises tariffs of up to 100 per cent on the largest importers of Russian oil and gas, a measure that would strike directly at India, China and, depending on final designation, Brazil. It is legislation dressed as Ukraine policy but built, as several US analysts have noted, to double as general-purpose tariff leverage against precisely the economies BRICS represents. Can BRICS respond as a bloc? The economics counsel caution. Intra-BRICS merchandise trade runs at roughly USD 700-800 billion annually, against combined BRICS trade with the US and EU exceeding USD 5 trillion. No BRICS economy, including China’s, is prepared to sacrifice Western market access for bloc solidarity. What the tariff threat can do, paradoxically, is accelerate what internal diplomacy has struggled to achieve: greater coordination on payment systems, supply chains and financial cooperation, precisely because external coercion, when it targets multiple members simultaneously, narrows the space for free-riding. The lesson for BRICS is unambiguous, intra-BRICS trade must expand substantially if the grouping is to develop genuine resilience against an economic hegemon acting alone. Xi's possible visit and the China variable Adding to the turbulence is the prospect of Xi Jinping’s first visit to India since 2019, pre-dating the deadly Galwan clash of 2020. A delegation of some 400 officials is reportedly being readied, even as reports of a fresh border friction point complicate the atmospherics and India’s top security official has been in Beijing for talks. If the visit materialises, it will be read globally as a signal that the India-China relationship is entering a phase of competitive coexistence rather than open confrontation, correct diplomacy for both capitals, given that neither benefits from a permanently frozen bilateral track feeding into a wider “Cold War 2.0” narrative that neither India nor China wishes to be boxed into. This matters for BRICS because the China-India contradiction remains, as I have argued elsewhere, the grouping’s most consequential internal tension. Beijing increasingly treats BRICS as a pillar of an alternative architecture reducing Western influence; New Delhi insists on a genuinely multipolar Asia rather than a China-centric one, and on BRICS as a reform platform rather than an anti-Western instrument. A cordial Modi-Xi meeting at the margins of Bharat Mandapam would not resolve that contradiction, but it would demonstrate that BRICS’s consensus-based model can still accommodate rival visions without capsizing, itself a form of concirclement, in which India manages competing power centres around it rather than being encircled by their rivalries. Energy security: The silent common thread Running beneath the geopolitics is a shared, less discussed vulnerability – energy security. Any escalation that threatens the Strait of Hormuz strikes directly at India’s oil import bill and inflation, and at similar exposures across China, and much of the Global South that BRICS claims to represent. The Bishkek statements on energy cooperation and India’s own MoUs on climate and connectivity are not separate from this turbulence; they are hedges against it. Chabahar Port, discussed in Prime Minister Modi’s sideline meeting with Iran’s President, and India’s continued, calibrated purchase of discounted Russian crude despite tariff threats, both reflect the same underlying calculus: energy security first, ideological alignment a distant second. Calibrated activism as the only viable course None of this turbulence is likely to derail the Summit’s declared, deliberately non-controversial themes of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability. The harder question is whether members will stay within those bounds once they are in the room together, given how many of them arrive carrying grievances, Iran’s demand for solidarity against the US and Israel, Russia’s search for sanctions relief, and China’s institutional ambitions for BRICS as counterweight to the West all sit uneasily against India’s preference for a reform-not-confrontation agenda. India’s answer has to be calibrated activism: firm enough to hold the chair’s agenda together, restrained enough not to let BRICS be captured by any single member’s confrontation with the West. This is consistent with New Delhi’s parallel engagement with the G20, the Quad and the SCO, competitive coexistence with all major poles rather than exclusive alignment with any one of them. Conclusion BRICS at twenty was already navigating internal contradictions of size, ideology and economic asymmetry. BRICS in 2026 must do so while absorbing external shocks, war, assassination, tariff coercion and great-power rivalry, arriving almost simultaneously. That the grouping’s chair this year is a nation practised in balancing exactly these pressures, and that its Summit follows so closely on the SCO’s own test of the same balancing act, is more opportunity than accident. Whether Bharat Mandapam converts turbulence into cohesion, or merely papers over it for another year, will depend on India’s ability to keep BRICS anchored to its founding purpose: reform of an unrepresentative global order, not participation in a new bloc confrontation. That, ultimately, is the measure by which this Chairmanship, and this Summit, should be judged.

India's 2026 BRICS Chairmanship culminates at Bharat Mandapam amid a rare convergence of crises, a Russia-Ukraine war without end, an Iran-Israel-US confrontation, punitive US tariff legislation aimed at Russian oil buyers, and a cautiously thawing Sino-Indian relationship

Global turbulence and BRICS 2026: Can intra-BRICS trade replace the West?

The Trump administration has again appealed to the US Supreme Court to implement its restrictions on mail-in voting after a federal judge blocked the US Postal Service (USPS) from enforcing key parts of the rules ahead of the November midterm elections. Critics say the measures could restrict access to mail-in voting, which is a major and potentially decisive part of US elections. The Trump administration claims the restrictions are intended to ensure that ineligible people, including non-US citizens, do not receive or cast federal-election ballots. The court battle is heating up even as states have started sending ballots for the November 3 polls.<h2>US postal ballot row: The legal showdown so far</h2>The Trump administration's latest appeal on Sunday (Sep 6) came after US District Judge Indira Talwani on September 4 issued a preliminary injunction preventing USPS from enforcing key mandatory parts of its new mail-ballot requirements. An earlier temporary restraining order had also blocked parts of the USPS rule. Talwani said states would face serious practical difficulties implementing the changes so late in the election cycle and that doing so could risk disenfranchising eligible voters.The administration has appealed Talwani's ruling to the US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit and has also returned to the Supreme Court seeking an emergency stay of the preliminary injunction.Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson has set September 9 as the deadline for responses to the latest government request.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-gives-trump-temporary-win-on-mail-in-voting-restrictions-1787620685760">US Supreme Court gives Trump temporary win on mail-in voting restrictions</a><h2>Trump's USPS orders: Why does he want to restrict voting by mail?</h2>At the heart of the row is an executive order issued by Trump on March 31, formally titled "Ensuring Citizenship Verification and Integrity in Federal Elections", directing USPS to introduce new procedures for federal-election mail ballots.The final USPS rule issued in August requires states using the postal service for federal-election ballots to comply with new standards for ballot and return-envelope design. It also requires election officials to provide information about voters receiving mail ballots through a new Federal Ballot Mail Portal. Ballot envelopes are required to carry unique Intelligent Mail barcodes.Under the rule, USPS would not mail ballots that fail to meet the prescribed requirements or are associated with voters not included in the required information submitted through the federal system.The Democratic opposition and several states pushed back against the reforms, arguing that they could disenfranchise valid voters and improperly intrude on states' authority over elections. The administration insists the rules are about operating the federal postal system, not controlling how elections are conducted.The government argues that states will continue to have final authority over voter eligibility, ballot content, election deadlines and the counting of votes. The administration also says the USPS requirements are limited to the use of the federal postal network.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-allows-states-to-count-mail-in-ballots-that-arrive-late-trump-calls-it-tremendous-loss-1782758597695">US Supreme Court allows states to count mail-in ballots that arrive late; Trump calls it ‘tremendous loss’</a><h2>Trump's reforms on mail-in ballots came too late, and critics see a disruption risk</h2>Critics argue that USPS lacks the authority to impose conditions on state election systems and that introducing such rules just weeks ahead of the election could cause widespread disruption.Talwani, in her ruling, stressed the practical difficulties facing states. Election officials have already prepared millions of ballots under existing procedures, and changing envelope designs, voter-data procedures and postal requirements at this stage could create confusion and delays.The case also raises broader constitutional questions because US elections are primarily administered by state and local authorities. The challengers argue that Trump's executive order cannot by itself give USPS the power to impose new conditions on states using the federal postal system.<h2>States have already started sending out mail ballots</h2>The legal battle is unfolding as the election process is already underway. North Carolina became the first state to begin sending out mail-in ballots for the 2026 midterm elections on September 4. Other states are expected to follow in the coming weeks. This has increased the urgency of the Supreme Court case, as election officials are now working under existing state procedures while the administration seeks permission to introduce the new federal postal requirements.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-donald-trump-lashes-out-at-low-polling-numbers-republicans-projected-to-lose-1788195004747/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-donald-trump-lashes-out-at-low-polling-numbers-republicans-projected-to-lose-1788195004747/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Why are mail-in ballots a crucial issue?</h2>Nearly one-third of US voters are expected to cast their ballots by mail. Any major change to the system this close to the election could impact how voters receive and return their ballots.A whistleblower has alleged that the Federal Ballot Mail Portal was developed rapidly and inadequately tested. One concern raised in the disclosure is that a failure to verify a single ballot in a batch could result in the entire batch being rejected for correction and another verification cycle. Such problems could potentially delay ballot processing and create additional pressure on election officials and USPS.USPS has disputed claims that it has ignored court orders and says it has been developing the system while complying with judicial directives.The Supreme Court's response could now be crucial. If the justices grant the administration's request, key parts of Trump's proposed mail-ballot system could be implemented for the 2026 midterm elections. If they leave Talwani's injunction in place, the new mandatory requirements will remain blocked while the broader legal challenge continues.

Trump is once again appealing to the Supreme Court to enforce his mail-ballot restrictions. States have started sending ballots for the 2026 midterms. Voting access and election procedures are now a legal battle. Here is why it matters

The Trump administration has again appealed to the US Supreme Court to implement its restrictions on mail-in voting after a federal judge blocked the US Postal Service (USPS) from enforcing key parts of the rules ahead of the November midterm elections. Critics say the measures could restrict access to mail-in voting, which is a major and potentially decisive part of US elections. The Trump administration claims the restrictions are intended to ensure that ineligible people, including non-US citizens, do not receive or cast federal-election ballots. The court battle is heating up even as states have started sending ballots for the November 3 polls. US postal ballot row: The legal showdown so far The Trump administration's latest appeal on Sunday (Sep 6) came after US District Judge Indira Talwani on September 4 issued a preliminary injunction preventing USPS from enforcing key mandatory parts of its new mail-ballot requirements. An earlier temporary restraining order had also blocked parts of the USPS rule. Talwani said states would face serious practical difficulties implementing the changes so late in the election cycle and that doing so could risk disenfranchising eligible voters. The administration has appealed Talwani's ruling to the US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit and has also returned to the Supreme Court seeking an emergency stay of the preliminary injunction. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson has set September 9 as the deadline for responses to the latest government request. Also read: US Supreme Court gives Trump temporary win on mail-in voting restrictions Trump's USPS orders: Why does he want to restrict voting by mail? At the heart of the row is an executive order issued by Trump on March 31, formally titled "Ensuring Citizenship Verification and Integrity in Federal Elections", directing USPS to introduce new procedures for federal-election mail ballots. The final USPS rule issued in August requires states using the postal service for federal-election ballots to comply with new standards for ballot and return-envelope design. It also requires election officials to provide information about voters receiving mail ballots through a new Federal Ballot Mail Portal. Ballot envelopes are required to carry unique Intelligent Mail barcodes. Under the rule, USPS would not mail ballots that fail to meet the prescribed requirements or are associated with voters not included in the required information submitted through the federal system. The Democratic opposition and several states pushed back against the reforms, arguing that they could disenfranchise valid voters and improperly intrude on states' authority over elections. The administration insists the rules are about operating the federal postal system, not controlling how elections are conducted. The government argues that states will continue to have final authority over voter eligibility, ballot content, election deadlines and the counting of votes. The administration also says the USPS requirements are limited to the use of the federal postal network. Also read: US Supreme Court allows states to count mail-in ballots that arrive late; Trump calls it ‘tremendous loss’ Trump's reforms on mail-in ballots came too late, and critics see a disruption risk Critics argue that USPS lacks the authority to impose conditions on state election systems and that introducing such rules just weeks ahead of the election could cause widespread disruption. Talwani, in her ruling, stressed the practical difficulties facing states. Election officials have already prepared millions of ballots under existing procedures, and changing envelope designs, voter-data procedures and postal requirements at this stage could create confusion and delays. The case also raises broader constitutional questions because US elections are primarily administered by state and local authorities. The challengers argue that Trump's executive order cannot by itself give USPS the power to impose new conditions on states using the federal postal system. States have already started sending out mail ballots The legal battle is unfolding as the election process is already underway. North Carolina became the first state to begin sending out mail-in ballots for the 2026 midterm elections on September 4. Other states are expected to follow in the coming weeks. This has increased the urgency of the Supreme Court case, as election officials are now working under existing state procedures while the administration seeks permission to introduce the new federal postal requirements. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-donald-trump-lashes-out-at-low-polling-numbers-republicans-projected-to-lose-1788195004747/embed Why are mail-in ballots a crucial issue? Nearly one-third of US voters are expected to cast their ballots by mail. Any major change to the system this close to the election could impact how voters receive and return their ballots. A whistleblower has alleged that the Federal Ballot Mail Portal was developed rapidly and inadequately tested. One concern raised in the disclosure is that a failure to verify a single ballot in a batch could result in the entire batch being rejected for correction and another verification cycle. Such problems could potentially delay ballot processing and create additional pressure on election officials and USPS. USPS has disputed claims that it has ignored court orders and says it has been developing the system while complying with judicial directives. The Supreme Court's response could now be crucial. If the justices grant the administration's request, key parts of Trump's proposed mail-ballot system could be implemented for the 2026 midterm elections. If they leave Talwani's injunction in place, the new mandatory requirements will remain blocked while the broader legal challenge continues.

Trump is once again appealing to the Supreme Court to enforce his mail-ballot restrictions. States have started sending ballots for the 2026 midterms. Voting access and election procedures are now a legal battle. Here is why it matters

Is Trump trying to control midterm postal ballots? Supreme Court decision could affect one-third of votes

The widow of a US Air Force major has raised concerns over how military benefits and combat classifications are communicated to families after the death of her husband during a US military operation in Iraq. Libby Klinner, whose 33-year-old husband, Major Alex Klinner, was killed in March, said she was initially told that she was not eligible for additional benefits because Congress had not formally declared war.&nbsp;Major Klinner was one of six crew members aboard a KC-135 refuelling aircraft that crashed in western Iraq while supporting US strikes against Iran. Since the conflict with Iran started more than six months ago, 18 US service members have reportedly been killed and 780 wounded. “My husband lost his life because we’re in a war, and then I was told that because it’s not technically a war, we lose out on something,” Ms Klinner was quoted as saying to the Associated Press. “It all comes down to principle.”&nbsp;Her comments were widely shared online, prompting the US Air Force to clarify the situation. Officials said Major Klinner's final pay cheque had included hazard pay and combat-related tax benefits. US officials also acknowledged that the family had initially received incorrect information. They said his final pay cheque included “combat pay”, worth $225 a month, although it had been incorrectly itemised. The payment was not dependent on Congress issuing a formal declaration of war.&nbsp;“What this experience made clear to me is how difficult it can be for a grieving family to navigate classifications, terminology and government processes at the very moment we are least equipped to do so,” Ms Klinner said in a statement. “No Gold Star family should have to become an expert in government language to understand what they are entitled to. Alex understood the risks that came with his service, and he trusted that if the worst happened, his family would be taken care of.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/putting-3d-on-2d-surface-why-is-africa-s-true-size-not-shown-on-the-world-map-1788757697609">Putting 3D on 2D surface - Why is Africa's true size not shown on the world map?</a><h2>What is the eligibility of military compensation?</h2>Eligibility for different forms of military compensation can depend on several factors, including deployment status and duty location. As a result, service members' pay can change repeatedly during the year, potentially creating confusion and administrative errors. Klinner said her experience should prompt a broader discussion about ensuring military families receive clear and accurate information when they are dealing with the loss of a loved one.&nbsp;“I want the conversation to focus on making sure every family facing an unimaginable loss has that same clarity from the start,” said Klinner. “Getting this right for the families left behind isn’t a footnote, it’s part of how we honour the service and sacrifice of those we lost.”&nbsp;US Vice President JD Vance was questioned about the case during a White House briefing on Thursday. “We want to be as helpful as we can and ensure she gets everything that she is entitled to,” he said. “My message to her would be, ‘We love you, we’re grateful for the sacrifice and we very much take very seriously our commitment to get you what you need to get.’”&nbsp;Asked whether US operations against Iran should be described as a war, Vance rejected the terminology, saying there was “no active shooting”. President Donald Trump has also repeatedly referred to the military campaign against Iran as a war. However, he backed Vance's position on Friday and described the strikes as “intermittent”.&nbsp;He said “A lot of people don’t call it a war. I call it a military conflict, because it’s small potatoes for us.” The dispute over terminology comes amid wider complaints from military families about how the Pentagon has classified injuries suffered by US personnel during operations against Iran.&nbsp;Some families have alleged that the extent of injuries has been downplayed and that wounded personnel have not always been treated as combat casualties. The US Army has denied those claims. The US military has generally been cautious about releasing detailed information about injuries. US Central Command is not required to disclose such information in cases where personnel return to duty relatively quickly.&nbsp;Trump has also met with relatives of US service members killed during military operations, including the parents of 25-year-old Lt Tyler James Feehan. “He talked to me as a mother who lost her son,” said Shari Feehan, Lt Feehan’s mother. “He saw the devastation. He witnessed that, and so he knows.”

US Air Force widow Libby Klinner raises concerns over military benefits after Major Alex Klinner’s death, amid debate over Iran conflict classifications

The widow of a US Air Force major has raised concerns over how military benefits and combat classifications are communicated to families after the death of her husband during a US military operation in Iraq. Libby Klinner, whose 33-year-old husband, Major Alex Klinner, was killed in March, said she was initially told that she was not eligible for additional benefits because Congress had not formally declared war. Major Klinner was one of six crew members aboard a KC-135 refuelling aircraft that crashed in western Iraq while supporting US strikes against Iran. Since the conflict with Iran started more than six months ago, 18 US service members have reportedly been killed and 780 wounded. “My husband lost his life because we’re in a war, and then I was told that because it’s not technically a war, we lose out on something,” Ms Klinner was quoted as saying to the Associated Press. “It all comes down to principle.” Her comments were widely shared online, prompting the US Air Force to clarify the situation. Officials said Major Klinner's final pay cheque had included hazard pay and combat-related tax benefits. US officials also acknowledged that the family had initially received incorrect information. They said his final pay cheque included “combat pay”, worth $225 a month, although it had been incorrectly itemised. The payment was not dependent on Congress issuing a formal declaration of war. “What this experience made clear to me is how difficult it can be for a grieving family to navigate classifications, terminology and government processes at the very moment we are least equipped to do so,” Ms Klinner said in a statement. “No Gold Star family should have to become an expert in government language to understand what they are entitled to. Alex understood the risks that came with his service, and he trusted that if the worst happened, his family would be taken care of.” Also Read: Putting 3D on 2D surface - Why is Africa's true size not shown on the world map? What is the eligibility of military compensation? Eligibility for different forms of military compensation can depend on several factors, including deployment status and duty location. As a result, service members' pay can change repeatedly during the year, potentially creating confusion and administrative errors. Klinner said her experience should prompt a broader discussion about ensuring military families receive clear and accurate information when they are dealing with the loss of a loved one. “I want the conversation to focus on making sure every family facing an unimaginable loss has that same clarity from the start,” said Klinner. “Getting this right for the families left behind isn’t a footnote, it’s part of how we honour the service and sacrifice of those we lost.” US Vice President JD Vance was questioned about the case during a White House briefing on Thursday. “We want to be as helpful as we can and ensure she gets everything that she is entitled to,” he said. “My message to her would be, ‘We love you, we’re grateful for the sacrifice and we very much take very seriously our commitment to get you what you need to get.’” Asked whether US operations against Iran should be described as a war, Vance rejected the terminology, saying there was “no active shooting”. President Donald Trump has also repeatedly referred to the military campaign against Iran as a war. However, he backed Vance's position on Friday and described the strikes as “intermittent”. He said “A lot of people don’t call it a war. I call it a military conflict, because it’s small potatoes for us.” The dispute over terminology comes amid wider complaints from military families about how the Pentagon has classified injuries suffered by US personnel during operations against Iran. Some families have alleged that the extent of injuries has been downplayed and that wounded personnel have not always been treated as combat casualties. The US Army has denied those claims. The US military has generally been cautious about releasing detailed information about injuries. US Central Command is not required to disclose such information in cases where personnel return to duty relatively quickly. Trump has also met with relatives of US service members killed during military operations, including the parents of 25-year-old Lt Tyler James Feehan. “He talked to me as a mother who lost her son,” said Shari Feehan, Lt Feehan’s mother. “He saw the devastation. He witnessed that, and so he knows.”

US Air Force widow Libby Klinner questions US military benefits after her husband’s death, sparking debate over combat pay, war classifications and support for families

Is US not paying soldiers fighting against Iran? 'Conflict vs war' debate amid widow's claim of not getting benefits

In a bid to create a "fair world" with a "fair map", the United Nations voted for a world map to reflect the true size of Africa. While on the current map it appears similar to Greenland, the continent is actually 14 times larger than the island. Its size means that it can fit "the United States, China, India, Japan, Mexico and much of Europe" with land to spare, according to online campaign group #CorrectTheMap. Africa can also comfortably fit three Canadas.&nbsp;The Mercator map has been in use since the 16th century and over generations has created the perception that Africa isn't very large. Critics say this has pushed the countries near the equator to the background when it comes to development needs and the potential they hold. Countries like America are projected as bigger and more important.&nbsp;But as we now know, Africa is way bigger than the map shows. So why does the map not show the true size of Africa? This is because of the party whose interests this map was made to serve.<h2>Why does Africa appear smaller on maps?</h2>&nbsp;The Mercator map was designed in 1569 by the Flemish cartographer Gerardus Mercator. It was meant to help European explorers navigate across the world. Meridians and parallels were drawn as straight lines that cross at right angles to navigate treacherous voyages. Charting the surface of a globe on a two-dimensional chart accurately was tricky. Mercator stretched out the northern and southern extremities of the globe to fill the gaps near the poles left when the equator was used as the centre of the map.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mercator-projection-intentional-deception-or-a-navigation-necessity-1788748301373">Mercator projection: Intentional deception or a navigation necessity?</a>&nbsp;With this system, Western cartographers had more space to mark towns, cities, and roads in their part of the world. This led to the regions at the equator being pushed to the background. Whether the maps showed their true size or not didn't matter as much to the Westerners, even though Africa has just as much to be mapped.&nbsp;So now, Canada, Russia, the United States and Europe all appear bigger than they are. Even Greenland, which is only about the size of the Democratic Republic of Congo, looks the same as Africa.<h2>Mercator map linked to power dynamics</h2>&nbsp;Critics say that this wrong visual representation of the size of countries and continents on the Mercator Map lends them an air of power and intimidation. "The term ‘power of representation and representation of power’ sums up quite well how maps and the rise of the Western nation-state system – and with that, empire and colonialism – are linked," Marianne Franklin, professor of Global Media and Politics at Goldsmiths, University of London, told CNN in 2018.Equal Earth projection This was an equal area map created by a team of cartographers in 2018 to represent the true size of all continents, especially Africa. It was adopted by the African Union's (AU) 54 member states in February, who stated that it "more accurately represents the sizes of all continents, particularly Africa".&nbsp;Several groups have been campaigning to end the use of the Mercator Map. They say that its adoption is a deliberate attempt to create misinformation about Africa. Kenyan geographer Kioko Muendo told BBC that the Mercator map has downplayed the African continent's vast resources, population and investment opportunities.&nbsp;Even though the UN vote is non-binding, it will lead to most institutions in the world shifting to an equal world map.

Why hasn't Africa been shown in its true size on the world map till now? It is 14 times larger than Greenland, yet it looks the same as the island, even though the latter is extremely small. This is because the maker of this over 450-year-old map chose to prioritise the West. 

In a bid to create a "fair world" with a "fair map", the United Nations voted for a world map to reflect the true size of Africa. While on the current map it appears similar to Greenland, the continent is actually 14 times larger than the island. Its size means that it can fit "the United States, China, India, Japan, Mexico and much of Europe" with land to spare, according to online campaign group #CorrectTheMap. Africa can also comfortably fit three Canadas. The Mercator map has been in use since the 16th century and over generations has created the perception that Africa isn't very large. Critics say this has pushed the countries near the equator to the background when it comes to development needs and the potential they hold. Countries like America are projected as bigger and more important. But as we now know, Africa is way bigger than the map shows. So why does the map not show the true size of Africa? This is because of the party whose interests this map was made to serve. Why does Africa appear smaller on maps? The Mercator map was designed in 1569 by the Flemish cartographer Gerardus Mercator. It was meant to help European explorers navigate across the world. Meridians and parallels were drawn as straight lines that cross at right angles to navigate treacherous voyages. Charting the surface of a globe on a two-dimensional chart accurately was tricky. Mercator stretched out the northern and southern extremities of the globe to fill the gaps near the poles left when the equator was used as the centre of the map. Also Read: Mercator projection: Intentional deception or a navigation necessity? With this system, Western cartographers had more space to mark towns, cities, and roads in their part of the world. This led to the regions at the equator being pushed to the background. Whether the maps showed their true size or not didn't matter as much to the Westerners, even though Africa has just as much to be mapped. So now, Canada, Russia, the United States and Europe all appear bigger than they are. Even Greenland, which is only about the size of the Democratic Republic of Congo, looks the same as Africa. Mercator map linked to power dynamics Critics say that this wrong visual representation of the size of countries and continents on the Mercator Map lends them an air of power and intimidation. "The term ‘power of representation and representation of power’ sums up quite well how maps and the rise of the Western nation-state system – and with that, empire and colonialism – are linked," Marianne Franklin, professor of Global Media and Politics at Goldsmiths, University of London, told CNN in 2018. Equal Earth projection This was an equal area map created by a team of cartographers in 2018 to represent the true size of all continents, especially Africa. It was adopted by the African Union's (AU) 54 member states in February, who stated that it "more accurately represents the sizes of all continents, particularly Africa". Several groups have been campaigning to end the use of the Mercator Map. They say that its adoption is a deliberate attempt to create misinformation about Africa. Kenyan geographer Kioko Muendo told BBC that the Mercator map has downplayed the African continent's vast resources, population and investment opportunities. Even though the UN vote is non-binding, it will lead to most institutions in the world shifting to an equal world map.

Why hasn't Africa been shown in its true size on the world map till now? It is 14 times larger than Greenland, yet it looks the same as the island, even though the latter is extremely small. This is because the maker of this over 450-year-old map chose to prioritise the West.&nbsp;

Putting 3D on 2D surface - Why is Africa's true size not shown on the world map?

Donald Trump’s Truth Social posting spree featured bizarre AI images of George Washington, Hulk Hogan, Iran, robots, New America and the Moon

Donald Trump flooded Truth Social with AI fantasies, from George Washington and Hulk Hogan to robots, Iran, ‘New America’ and the Moon

From 'The Moon is ours' to 'Bye Bye Kharg': Trump goes full AI in Truth Social frenzy

Mohammed, Ariel, and Avigail were the top preferences as baby names in Israel during the Hebrew year 5786, according to Population and Immigration Authority data released ahead of Rosh Hashanah, news outlet The Jerusalem Post reported. As of September 6, a total of 179,398 births were registered in the country’s Population Registry. Across the overall population, Mohammed was the most common name for boys, followed by Ariel, Yosef, Adam, David, Omer, Rafael, Lavi, Michael, and Eitan, The Jerusalem Post noted.&nbsp;Mohammed’s top position continues a long-standing trend, having also led the national rankings in past years, including ahead of Rosh Hashanah in 2022. Among Jewish boys specifically, Ariel claimed the top spot, continuing a strong multi-year trend. David ranked second, followed by Rafael, Lavi, Uri, Michael, Eliya, Eitan, Yehuda, and Ari.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/israeli-forces-destroy-and-burn-properties-in-southern-lebanon-1788680092276">Israeli forces destroy and burn properties in southern Lebanon</a>&nbsp;For girls, Avigail was the undisputed favourite, ranking first across both the general population and Jewish Israelis. In the overall national rankings for girls, Avigail was followed by Miriam, Lia, Libi, Tamar, Yael, Ayala, Sarah, Ella, and Naya. Among Jewish girls, Libi took second place, followed by Tamar, Yael, Lia, Ella, Ayala, Sarah, Noa, and Naya. Avigail’s dominance continues an exceptionally strong multi-year streak at the top of the charts.&nbsp;The publication highlighted that traditional and biblical names consistently dominate the top spots in Israeli demographic data, as reflected in both Population and Immigration Authority figures and separate Central Bureau of Statistics reports. Geographically, Jerusalem recorded the highest number of registered births in 5786 by a wide margin, welcoming 23,336 newborns. Bnei Brak followed in second place with 8,225 births, and Tel Aviv-Jaffa placed third with 7,405.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-not-withdraw-katz-vows-as-israel-seizes-key-hezbollah-stronghold-in-lebanon-1788528770721">‘Will not withdraw’: Katz vows as Israel seizes key Hezbollah stronghold in Lebanon</a>&nbsp;Other top-ranking cities for births included Beit Shemesh (6,974), Ashdod (4,031), Haifa (3,421), Rishon LeZion (3,413), Netanya (3,343), Petah Tikva (3,338), and Modi’in Illit (3,113). The release of the data came as Israel prepared to transition into the Hebrew year 5787, with Rosh Hashanah celebrations beginning on Friday evening.

Israel's Population and Immigration Authority released its baby name data for 5786, with Mohammed, Ariel, and Avigail topping the national rankings ahead of Rosh Hashanah. 

Mohammed, Ariel, and Avigail were the top preferences as baby names in Israel during the Hebrew year 5786, according to Population and Immigration Authority data released ahead of Rosh Hashanah, news outlet The Jerusalem Post reported. As of September 6, a total of 179,398 births were registered in the country’s Population Registry. Across the overall population, Mohammed was the most common name for boys, followed by Ariel, Yosef, Adam, David, Omer, Rafael, Lavi, Michael, and Eitan, The Jerusalem Post noted. Mohammed’s top position continues a long-standing trend, having also led the national rankings in past years, including ahead of Rosh Hashanah in 2022. Among Jewish boys specifically, Ariel claimed the top spot, continuing a strong multi-year trend. David ranked second, followed by Rafael, Lavi, Uri, Michael, Eliya, Eitan, Yehuda, and Ari. Also read: Israeli forces destroy and burn properties in southern Lebanon For girls, Avigail was the undisputed favourite, ranking first across both the general population and Jewish Israelis. In the overall national rankings for girls, Avigail was followed by Miriam, Lia, Libi, Tamar, Yael, Ayala, Sarah, Ella, and Naya. Among Jewish girls, Libi took second place, followed by Tamar, Yael, Lia, Ella, Ayala, Sarah, Noa, and Naya. Avigail’s dominance continues an exceptionally strong multi-year streak at the top of the charts. The publication highlighted that traditional and biblical names consistently dominate the top spots in Israeli demographic data, as reflected in both Population and Immigration Authority figures and separate Central Bureau of Statistics reports. Geographically, Jerusalem recorded the highest number of registered births in 5786 by a wide margin, welcoming 23,336 newborns. Bnei Brak followed in second place with 8,225 births, and Tel Aviv-Jaffa placed third with 7,405. Also read: ‘Will not withdraw’: Katz vows as Israel seizes key Hezbollah stronghold in Lebanon Other top-ranking cities for births included Beit Shemesh (6,974), Ashdod (4,031), Haifa (3,421), Rishon LeZion (3,413), Netanya (3,343), Petah Tikva (3,338), and Modi’in Illit (3,113). The release of the data came as Israel prepared to transition into the Hebrew year 5787, with Rosh Hashanah celebrations beginning on Friday evening.

Israel's Population and Immigration Authority released its baby name data for 5786, with Mohammed, Ariel, and Avigail topping the national rankings ahead of Rosh Hashanah.&nbsp;

Traditional and biblical names dominate: Mohammed, Ariel, and Avigail lead Israel’s newborn rankings

Iran expects to sign an agreement establishing a controlled shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz in the coming days, alongside plans to declare a new maritime ‘exclusion zone’ in adjacent waters. The announcements come amid heightening regional tensions and ongoing naval disruptions in the vital trade choke point.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-war-iran-warns-us-of-faster-heavier-more-painful-response-as-hormuz-tensions-escalate-1788708930876/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-war-iran-warns-us-of-faster-heavier-more-painful-response-as-hormuz-tensions-escalate-1788708930876/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, stated during an interview with Iranian state television that Tehran has been negotiating shipping-route maps with neighbouring Oman. The proposed corridor, which includes designated routes passing through Iranian and Omani territorial waters, aims to establish a framework for commercial vessel transit. However, Rezaei emphasised that entry and exit through the corridor would be managed directly by Tehran and that Iran will not guarantee a full reopening of the waterway unless the US halts strikes against Iranian targets.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/fuel-tanker-explodes-after-traffic-accident-in-western-iran-kills-10-1788680126227">Fuel tanker explodes after traffic accident in western Iran, kills 10</a>&nbsp;Along with the bilateral corridor talks, Iranian officials revealed plans to formally establish a designated restricted zone near the entrance of the strait. According to Rezaei, the boundaries of the proposed exclusion zone will extend from the perimeter of the current US naval blockade inward through the Strait of Hormuz and into the Persian Gulf. Vessels attempting to enter or transit the restricted zone without authorisation from Tehran face placement on an Iranian sanctions list and potential denial of passage.&nbsp;The diplomatic and maritime announcements follow a series of military engagements in the region. Over the weekend, US forces carried out strikes targeting three Iranian oil tankers after Tehran fired ballistic missiles toward US warships in the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-is-small-potatoes-for-us-says-trump-as-he-defends-vance-1788601061216">Iran war is "small potatoes" for US, says Trump as he defends Vance</a>&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical transit hubs for energy, historically carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies. Daily traffic through the strait has dropped sharply due to security risks, naval blockades, and ongoing military exchanges. While Washington reports that naval escorts continue to safeguard limited commercial passage, Iranian officials maintain that the waterway remains functionally closed to unauthorised traffic until a broader security agreement is reached.

Iran's Supreme National Security Council announced plans to establish a new exclusion zone and shipping corridor near the Strait of Hormuz, warning that vessels entering the area could face Iranian sanctions. 

Iran expects to sign an agreement establishing a controlled shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz in the coming days, alongside plans to declare a new maritime ‘exclusion zone’ in adjacent waters. The announcements come amid heightening regional tensions and ongoing naval disruptions in the vital trade choke point. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-war-iran-warns-us-of-faster-heavier-more-painful-response-as-hormuz-tensions-escalate-1788708930876/embed Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, stated during an interview with Iranian state television that Tehran has been negotiating shipping-route maps with neighbouring Oman. The proposed corridor, which includes designated routes passing through Iranian and Omani territorial waters, aims to establish a framework for commercial vessel transit. However, Rezaei emphasised that entry and exit through the corridor would be managed directly by Tehran and that Iran will not guarantee a full reopening of the waterway unless the US halts strikes against Iranian targets. Also read: Fuel tanker explodes after traffic accident in western Iran, kills 10 Along with the bilateral corridor talks, Iranian officials revealed plans to formally establish a designated restricted zone near the entrance of the strait. According to Rezaei, the boundaries of the proposed exclusion zone will extend from the perimeter of the current US naval blockade inward through the Strait of Hormuz and into the Persian Gulf. Vessels attempting to enter or transit the restricted zone without authorisation from Tehran face placement on an Iranian sanctions list and potential denial of passage. The diplomatic and maritime announcements follow a series of military engagements in the region. Over the weekend, US forces carried out strikes targeting three Iranian oil tankers after Tehran fired ballistic missiles toward US warships in the Persian Gulf. Also read: Iran war is "small potatoes" for US, says Trump as he defends Vance The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical transit hubs for energy, historically carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies. Daily traffic through the strait has dropped sharply due to security risks, naval blockades, and ongoing military exchanges. While Washington reports that naval escorts continue to safeguard limited commercial passage, Iranian officials maintain that the waterway remains functionally closed to unauthorised traffic until a broader security agreement is reached.

Iran's Supreme National Security Council announced plans to establish a new exclusion zone and shipping corridor near the Strait of Hormuz, warning that vessels entering the area could face Iranian sanctions.&nbsp;

Iran plans new maritime transit corridor and exclusion zone near Strait of Hormuz

Heavy fighting between Yemeni government forces and Houthi rebels in southwest Yemen has left over 300 people dead, as an offensive by the rebel group forces hundreds of families to abandon their homes. The renewed violence marks the deadliest escalation in the country since a long-standing ceasefire collapsed.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fierce-battle-for-bab-al-mandeb-strait-kills-120-houthis-seek-control-over-red-sea-strait-1788544195112/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/fierce-battle-for-bab-al-mandeb-strait-kills-120-houthis-seek-control-over-red-sea-strait-1788544195112/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;According to military and medical sources on both sides of the conflict, the casualty count includes mostly combatants alongside several civilians. Officials from the Saudi-backed internationally recognised government reported losing 84 troops, largely to Houthi missile strikes. Total fatalities from the multi-day offensive have surpassed 300.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/houthis-target-yemen-with-ballistic-missiles-yemeni-army-downs-several-drones-1788410128808">Houthis target Yemen with ballistic missiles, Yemeni army downs several drones</a>&nbsp;The violence erupted when Houthi forces launched a major push aimed at severing the primary supply route linking the city of Taiz to the government-held port city of Mokha. Military officials confirmed that rebel forces successfully severed the strategic highway, part of an effort to advance toward the Bab al-Mandeb Strait a vital global shipping channel at the southern mouth of the Red Sea.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemen-warns-houthis-foothold-bab-el-mandeb-strait-1787155866625">Yemen warns Houthis seek foothold near Bab el-Mandeb Strait</a>&nbsp;The rapid advance has triggered severe civilian displacement across the Taiz governorate, particularly in the Maqbanah and Jabal Habashi districts. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), nearly 1,800 households have been forced to flee due to heavy artillery shelling and ground firefights.&nbsp;Displaced families have been arriving at informal camps, including the Al-Bareen site, carrying basic necessities, livestock, and temporary shelter materials. Fleeing residents described intense crossfire, with many forced to leave behind basic supplies. Local aid organisations report acute shortages of food, shelter, and medical supplies to care for the arriving families.&nbsp;The United Nations expressed deep concern over the military escalation, warning that continued fighting risks worsening Yemen’s humanitarian crisis and destabilising the wider region. Despite localised counter-advances by government troops north of Hays, analysts note that the offensive has effectively shattered the fragile remaining framework of the 2022 truce, pushing the country back toward full-scale conflict.

Over 300 people have been killed and thousands displaced in southwest Yemen as heavy fighting between government forces and Houthi rebels escalates near key Red Sea routes.

Heavy fighting between Yemeni government forces and Houthi rebels in southwest Yemen has left over 300 people dead, as an offensive by the rebel group forces hundreds of families to abandon their homes. The renewed violence marks the deadliest escalation in the country since a long-standing ceasefire collapsed. https://www.wionews.com/videos/fierce-battle-for-bab-al-mandeb-strait-kills-120-houthis-seek-control-over-red-sea-strait-1788544195112/embed According to military and medical sources on both sides of the conflict, the casualty count includes mostly combatants alongside several civilians. Officials from the Saudi-backed internationally recognised government reported losing 84 troops, largely to Houthi missile strikes. Total fatalities from the multi-day offensive have surpassed 300. Also read: Houthis target Yemen with ballistic missiles, Yemeni army downs several drones The violence erupted when Houthi forces launched a major push aimed at severing the primary supply route linking the city of Taiz to the government-held port city of Mokha. Military officials confirmed that rebel forces successfully severed the strategic highway, part of an effort to advance toward the Bab al-Mandeb Strait a vital global shipping channel at the southern mouth of the Red Sea. Also read: Yemen warns Houthis seek foothold near Bab el-Mandeb Strait The rapid advance has triggered severe civilian displacement across the Taiz governorate, particularly in the Maqbanah and Jabal Habashi districts. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), nearly 1,800 households have been forced to flee due to heavy artillery shelling and ground firefights. Displaced families have been arriving at informal camps, including the Al-Bareen site, carrying basic necessities, livestock, and temporary shelter materials. Fleeing residents described intense crossfire, with many forced to leave behind basic supplies. Local aid organisations report acute shortages of food, shelter, and medical supplies to care for the arriving families. The United Nations expressed deep concern over the military escalation, warning that continued fighting risks worsening Yemen’s humanitarian crisis and destabilising the wider region. Despite localised counter-advances by government troops north of Hays, analysts note that the offensive has effectively shattered the fragile remaining framework of the 2022 truce, pushing the country back toward full-scale conflict.

Over 300 people have been killed and thousands displaced in southwest Yemen as heavy fighting between government forces and Houthi rebels escalates near key Red Sea routes.

Death toll crosses 300 in Yemen as Houthi offensive forces thousands to abandon homes

A pyrotechnic material exploded during the festival for a patron saint in a town in Mexico State, killing at least 10 people and injuring 64 more, Mexican authorities said. The explosion occurred next to the Nuestra Señora de la Luz church in Temascalcingo, a municipality in central Mexico with 66,000 residents. The municipality is about 100 miles northwest of Mexico City. Video showed hundreds of people playing with fireworks and enjoying fireworks display that is part of a religious festival when the blast occurred. According to reports, a wall also collapsed as the blast occurred.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/please-save-or-i-will-die-desperate-calls-for-help-from-students-trapped-under-rubble-after-satya-niketan-building-collapse-1788751491137">'Please save or...': Desperate calls for help from students trapped under rubble</a>&nbsp;Mexico State Attorney General’s Office has opened an investigation to find out the cause of the explosion. A video on social media shows the aftermath of the blast, with dozens of people walking through smoke and debris in search of survivors.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">10 DEAD, 64 injured, including 2 priests in Mexico fireworks DISASTER at a church <a href="https://t.co/cgo2DPVYG0">pic.twitter.com/cgo2DPVYG0</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://x.com/RT_com/status/2096769126702178557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The diocese of the nearby municipality of Atlacomulco said local bishop said that two priests are among the injured but are expected to survive. “We join together in prayer for those who have lost their lives, their families and loved ones, as well as those who were injured and all those who are experiencing moments of pain and worry today,” the diocese said in a statement on social media. Two years earlier, 42 people died in another fireworks explosion in a market in the city.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-building-collapse-mcd-orders-immediate-sealing-of-illegal-structures-over-4-floors-1788751155388">'All illegal structures over 4 floors to be sealed': MCD after Delhi PG collapse</a>&nbsp;Explosions involving pyrotechnics are common in Mexico, where fireworks are frequently used in street celebrations and religious festivals. Almost four years ago, a powerful fireworks explosion in a village in the municipality of Huejutla, in the central state of Hidalgo, injured 17 people.

At least 10 people were killed and 64 injured after pyrotechnic material exploded during a religious festival in Temascalcingo, Mexico State. The blast collapsed a wall near the Nuestra Señora de la Luz church, while authorities investigate the cause.

A pyrotechnic material exploded during the festival for a patron saint in a town in Mexico State, killing at least 10 people and injuring 64 more, Mexican authorities said. The explosion occurred next to the Nuestra Señora de la Luz church in Temascalcingo, a municipality in central Mexico with 66,000 residents. The municipality is about 100 miles northwest of Mexico City. Video showed hundreds of people playing with fireworks and enjoying fireworks display that is part of a religious festival when the blast occurred. According to reports, a wall also collapsed as the blast occurred. Also Read: 'Please save or...': Desperate calls for help from students trapped under rubble Mexico State Attorney General’s Office has opened an investigation to find out the cause of the explosion. A video on social media shows the aftermath of the blast, with dozens of people walking through smoke and debris in search of survivors.

At least 10 people were killed and 64 injured after pyrotechnic material exploded during a religious festival in Temascalcingo, Mexico State. The blast collapsed a wall near the Nuestra Señora de la Luz church, while authorities investigate the cause.

At least 10 killed in Mexico fireworks blast during festival

In a historic turnaround, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has won the election in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt. Exit polls for the ARD broadcaster suggested that the hard-Right nationalist party won 44.2 per cent of the vote. This is the first time that AfD is winning a regional parliament since the end of Nazi rule in 1945. The votes are more than twice what the incumbent centre-right Christian Democrats (CDU), led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, got at 17.4 per cent. AfD’s lead candidate Ulrich Siegmund said, “We have made history in this state.”<h2>What does the win for Alternative for Germany (AfD) mean for Germany?</h2>&nbsp;The xenophobic and anti-migration party has sent shockwaves throughout the country after bagging a large chunk of the votes. The party has proposed major changes across several areas, including migration, issues linked to LGBTQ, schools, and public broadcasters.<h2>Anti-migration stand</h2>Migrants are on target for AfD as the party pledged to "protect the homeland" from illegal migrants by shutting the border and deporting them. The party also wants to ban LGBTQ rainbow flags in state schools. Ulrich Siegmund, who leads the party in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, has also talked about ending compulsory school attendance and rewriting history books. He apparently isn't happy with the amount of negative content on the Third Reich, the dictatorship of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party between 1933 and 1945.&nbsp;He also wants to reform the public broadcasters and stop the construction of wind farms, an area US President Donald Trump also openly resents. People in the country are scared of a hard-Right party taking control of a state as thousands rallied against it on Saturday in Magdeburg, the regional capital. The banners clearly announced their fears aloud, as one read, "Life is better without Nazis".<h2>Migrant crimes in Germany</h2>Meanwhile, Siegmund told supporters that what the party has started in Saxony-Anhalt "is currently sweeping across all of Germany and can no longer be stopped." German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, the CDU leader's popularity has been diminishing. Illegal migration has been a problem for the country, with 15 million of them entering the country, most of them illegally.&nbsp;Former Chancellor Angela Merkel had opened the border to Syrians fleeing civil war.&nbsp;According to police figures, rapes and sexual assaults have been rising in the country, and most of them were carried out by individuals during the migrant surge.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's win in Germany is an Earth-shattering change for the country, as it has won a regional parliament for the first time since the end of Nazi rule. Ulrich Siegmund has proposed drastic measures for schools and migrants. 

In a historic turnaround, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has won the election in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt. Exit polls for the ARD broadcaster suggested that the hard-Right nationalist party won 44.2 per cent of the vote. This is the first time that AfD is winning a regional parliament since the end of Nazi rule in 1945. The votes are more than twice what the incumbent centre-right Christian Democrats (CDU), led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, got at 17.4 per cent. AfD’s lead candidate Ulrich Siegmund said, “We have made history in this state.” What does the win for Alternative for Germany (AfD) mean for Germany? The xenophobic and anti-migration party has sent shockwaves throughout the country after bagging a large chunk of the votes. The party has proposed major changes across several areas, including migration, issues linked to LGBTQ, schools, and public broadcasters. Anti-migration stand Migrants are on target for AfD as the party pledged to "protect the homeland" from illegal migrants by shutting the border and deporting them. The party also wants to ban LGBTQ rainbow flags in state schools. Ulrich Siegmund, who leads the party in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, has also talked about ending compulsory school attendance and rewriting history books. He apparently isn't happy with the amount of negative content on the Third Reich, the dictatorship of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party between 1933 and 1945. He also wants to reform the public broadcasters and stop the construction of wind farms, an area US President Donald Trump also openly resents. People in the country are scared of a hard-Right party taking control of a state as thousands rallied against it on Saturday in Magdeburg, the regional capital. The banners clearly announced their fears aloud, as one read, "Life is better without Nazis". Migrant crimes in Germany Meanwhile, Siegmund told supporters that what the party has started in Saxony-Anhalt "is currently sweeping across all of Germany and can no longer be stopped." German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, the CDU leader's popularity has been diminishing. Illegal migration has been a problem for the country, with 15 million of them entering the country, most of them illegally. Former Chancellor Angela Merkel had opened the border to Syrians fleeing civil war. According to police figures, rapes and sexual assaults have been rising in the country, and most of them were carried out by individuals during the migrant surge.

Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's win in Germany is an Earth-shattering change for the country, as it has won a regional parliament for the first time since the end of Nazi rule. Ulrich Siegmund has proposed drastic measures for schools and migrants.&nbsp;

What a win for Alternative for Germany (AfD) party mean for Germany?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India-France relations have entered a new phase, with the two countries strengthening their strategic partnership across technology, artificial intelligence, defence, space and climate action.Addressing the virtual inauguration of the Swaminarayan temple in Paris, Modi said the new temple could become a lasting symbol of cooperation and shared opportunities between India and France.&nbsp;"In recent years, relations between India and France have reached new heights. Together with my friend, President Emmanuel Macron, both nations are building a Special Global Strategic Partnership," he said. The prime minister highlighted the growing momentum in bilateral cooperation and noted that 2026 is being celebrated as the India-France Year of Innovation. "We are also celebrating 2026 as the India-France Year of Innovation. This strategic partnership is particularly special because it rests on the solid foundation of our long-standing cultural and political ties," he said.&nbsp;Modi also pointed to increasing discussions around joint ventures between Indian and French companies, describing them as another area of opportunity in the bilateral relationship. He recalled the historical links between the two nations, including the contribution and sacrifice of Indian soldiers in France during times of conflict. "Language enthusiasts also know the pivotal role French scholars played in popularising Sanskrit. Romain Rolland's writings on Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda brought our societies closer," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-building-collapse-cm-rekha-gupta-orders-magisterial-inquiry-fir-against-building-owner-1788746755757">Delhi building collapse: CM Rekha Gupta orders magisterial inquiry, FIR against building owner</a><h2>Watch video posted by PM Modi</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | During the inauguration of the Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, &quot;Today, a magnificent Swaminarayan temple is being inaugurated in Paris, the capital of France. This inauguration marks a new milestone in the cultural ties between… <a href="https://t.co/A6PLGTJxQB">pic.twitter.com/A6PLGTJxQB</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2096674300845801483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The prime minister further highlighted the spiritual and cultural connections that have developed between India and France over the decades. He referred to the journey of 'The Mother' from Paris to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry, saying it has inspired generations of seekers in both countries. He also recalled Srila Prabhupada Swami's visit to France and the role of ISKCON in strengthening spiritual links between India and the French people.&nbsp;Modi said yoga has emerged as another important bridge between the two societies, with its popularity in France reflected by celebrations and images from iconic locations such as the Eiffel Tower on International Yoga Day. The newly inaugurated temple, he said, represents another important chapter in India's cultural engagement with France. "Today, yoga has also become a bridge for people-to-people connections between our nations. Images from the Eiffel Tower on International Yoga Day reflect yoga's immense popularity in France," he said.&nbsp;PM Modi described the BAPS Swaminarayan temple as a project that combines Indian craftsmanship with French engineering. "Many of its stones were carved in India, blending India's ancient craftsmanship with modern engineering here in France," he said. He said the temple's construction reflects the possibilities created when India's traditional knowledge and craftsmanship come together with modern expertise in France.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, &quot;A magnificent temple was inaugurated in Abu Dhabi in 2024. Today, thousands of people visit it to offer their prayers. And now, the construction of the Swaminarayan temple in Paris stands as a testament to the continuity of creation… <a href="https://t.co/kmLAXqSWlF">pic.twitter.com/kmLAXqSWlF</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2096676295979798574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Modi expressed confidence that the values associated with Indian culture and spirituality would reach audiences beyond France and benefit communities across Europe. He also said he hoped to visit the temple personally in the future whenever his schedule allows. "Now, through this magnificent BAPS temple (BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha), another milestone is being added to our cultural relations," he said.&nbsp;The prime minister also emphasised the role of Swaminarayan temples as centres of community service and social initiatives in addition to their religious significance. "The prime minister said Swaminarayan temples have always served as hubs of service alongside devotion. "I am informed that this temple will likewise become a centre for service projects," he said."&nbsp;Modi said BAPS temples established around the world help carry India's philosophical traditions and human values to international communities. "A magnificent temple stands ready today in France and it will not only enrich France's diversity but also energise the cultural relations between India and France," he said.

PM Modi hailed India-France ties at the Paris BAPS Swaminarayan temple inauguration, highlighting innovation, culture, yoga, spirituality and cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India-France relations have entered a new phase, with the two countries strengthening their strategic partnership across technology, artificial intelligence, defence, space and climate action. Addressing the virtual inauguration of the Swaminarayan temple in Paris, Modi said the new temple could become a lasting symbol of cooperation and shared opportunities between India and France. "In recent years, relations between India and France have reached new heights. Together with my friend, President Emmanuel Macron, both nations are building a Special Global Strategic Partnership," he said. The prime minister highlighted the growing momentum in bilateral cooperation and noted that 2026 is being celebrated as the India-France Year of Innovation. "We are also celebrating 2026 as the India-France Year of Innovation. This strategic partnership is particularly special because it rests on the solid foundation of our long-standing cultural and political ties," he said. Modi also pointed to increasing discussions around joint ventures between Indian and French companies, describing them as another area of opportunity in the bilateral relationship. He recalled the historical links between the two nations, including the contribution and sacrifice of Indian soldiers in France during times of conflict. "Language enthusiasts also know the pivotal role French scholars played in popularising Sanskrit. Romain Rolland's writings on Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda brought our societies closer," he said. Also Read: Delhi building collapse: CM Rekha Gupta orders magisterial inquiry, FIR against building owner Watch video posted by PM Modi

PM Modi said India-France ties have reached new heights as he hailed the Paris BAPS temple as a symbol of culture, innovation and cooperation

PM Modi hails new heights in India-France ties, says 'Swaminarayan Temple in Paris will strengthen cultural bonds'

Correct the map: The title of the United Nations non-binding resolution adopted on Fri (Sep 4) by the General Assembly, aimed at encouraging governments, schools, media organisations and other institutions to consider using the Equal Earth projection. For sometimes now, the push for actual proportions of the world’s landmasses to be prevented more accurately had been foremost, specially for African countries.&nbsp;<h2>What is Mercator projection and the problem with it?</h2>The Mercator projection, which was developed by Flemish cartographer Gerardus Mercator in 1569, had greatly underrepresented African continent and some part of Asia, though it was primarily designed as a navigational tool for sailors, but distorts the size of landmasses, particularly as they move farther from the Equator. The Mercator projection gave Europe and North America a much greater visual presence, while reducing the apparent size of Africa, Latin America and parts of Asia, while in reality Africa covers approximately 30.3 million square kilometres, making it the second-largest continent after Asia, which spans roughly 44 to 45 million square kilometres.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-votes-to-correct-world-map-that-visually-shrank-africa-for-450-years-1788579306430">UN votes to correct world map that visually shrank Africa for 450 years</a>&nbsp;Togo introduced the resolution on behalf of the African Group and supported by the African Union, it got approval from 164 countries, while the United States voted against it and six countries abstained.&nbsp;Though the resolution is not binding, African countries and others that supported the resolution, argue that correcting the visual distortion could have implications beyond geography, particularly in education and perceptions of the continent’s importance and scale. Togo, leading the African push, has already moved towards updating its educational geography materials to incorporate the Equal Earth projection, while France has also indicated plans to move away from the traditional Mercator representation. This United Nations General Assembly resolution vote will encourage the use of the Equal Earth global map projection, that was invented in 2018 Bojan Šavrič, Bernhard Jenny, and Tom Patterson.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-un-correct-the-map-resolution-jammu-kashmir-ladakh-1788707252140">India backs UN ‘Correct the Map’ resolution, draws red line on J&amp;K, Ladakh</a>&nbsp;The equal Earth map projection are simple to implement and fast to evaluate. Surely the Equal Earth projection will rebalance global cartography and promote equitable representation of the world’s regions, we know some school of thought believe African continent is large enough to contain the contiguous United States, China, India and much of Europe within its borders, with land still remaining.&nbsp;Analysts believe actual presentation and representation will not only help schools, media organisations and other institutions follow the actual Cartography, but also cut out error, such as the one made by US State Department in Rio de Janeiro in July 2026 during the International AIDS conference, where all six highlighted African nations were mislabeled and misplaced.

The UN General Assembly has backed a non-binding resolution encouraging the use of the Equal Earth map projection to better represent the true size of continents, especially Africa. The Togo-led resolution won 164 votes, with the US opposing and six countries abstaining

Correct the map: The title of the United Nations non-binding resolution adopted on Fri (Sep 4) by the General Assembly, aimed at encouraging governments, schools, media organisations and other institutions to consider using the Equal Earth projection. For sometimes now, the push for actual proportions of the world’s landmasses to be prevented more accurately had been foremost, specially for African countries. What is Mercator projection and the problem with it? The Mercator projection, which was developed by Flemish cartographer Gerardus Mercator in 1569, had greatly underrepresented African continent and some part of Asia, though it was primarily designed as a navigational tool for sailors, but distorts the size of landmasses, particularly as they move farther from the Equator. The Mercator projection gave Europe and North America a much greater visual presence, while reducing the apparent size of Africa, Latin America and parts of Asia, while in reality Africa covers approximately 30.3 million square kilometres, making it the second-largest continent after Asia, which spans roughly 44 to 45 million square kilometres. Also Read: UN votes to correct world map that visually shrank Africa for 450 years Togo introduced the resolution on behalf of the African Group and supported by the African Union, it got approval from 164 countries, while the United States voted against it and six countries abstained. Though the resolution is not binding, African countries and others that supported the resolution, argue that correcting the visual distortion could have implications beyond geography, particularly in education and perceptions of the continent’s importance and scale. Togo, leading the African push, has already moved towards updating its educational geography materials to incorporate the Equal Earth projection, while France has also indicated plans to move away from the traditional Mercator representation. This United Nations General Assembly resolution vote will encourage the use of the Equal Earth global map projection, that was invented in 2018 Bojan Šavrič, Bernhard Jenny, and Tom Patterson. Also Read: India backs UN ‘Correct the Map’ resolution, draws red line on J&K, Ladakh The equal Earth map projection are simple to implement and fast to evaluate. Surely the Equal Earth projection will rebalance global cartography and promote equitable representation of the world’s regions, we know some school of thought believe African continent is large enough to contain the contiguous United States, China, India and much of Europe within its borders, with land still remaining. Analysts believe actual presentation and representation will not only help schools, media organisations and other institutions follow the actual Cartography, but also cut out error, such as the one made by US State Department in Rio de Janeiro in July 2026 during the International AIDS conference, where all six highlighted African nations were mislabeled and misplaced.

The UN General Assembly has backed a non-binding resolution encouraging the use of the Equal Earth map projection to better represent the true size of continents, especially Africa. The Togo-led resolution won 164 votes, with the US opposing and six countries abstaining

Mercator projection: Intentional deception or a navigation necessity?

An Amazon cargo plane overran a runway at Miami International Airport on Sunday after arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico, striking vehicles on a nearby roadway and bursting into flames. Authorities said at least five people were killed and five others injured. The aircraft veered beyond the runway at around 2 pm and crossed a road used by warehouse employees and businesses operating around the airport. Miami-Dade County officials said three of the injured people were in critical condition, while two others suffered less serious injuries. Officials said it was too early to determine whether those killed were aboard the aircraft or inside the vehicles struck by the plane.&nbsp;The crash created a massive emergency response, with thick black smoke rising above the airport. Miami-Dade Rescue Fire Chief Ray Jadallah said the pilot and copilot were trapped inside the cockpit, while several people in vehicles also became trapped. Emergency crews additionally had to rescue a person who was pinned beneath a vehicle. Around 200 emergency personnel responded to the incident. Firefighters encountered heavy flames and smoke coming from a complex engine compartment fire and used specialized airport firefighting equipment and foam to bring the blaze under control. Hours after the crash, crews were still working to contain a fuel leak from the aircraft.&nbsp;The Prime Air aircraft eventually came to rest beside a roadway near two semi-trucks. Images from the scene showed the Boeing 767 resting on its belly and appearing largely intact despite extensive fire damage. The cause of the crash remained unknown. Investigators had not determined whether weather conditions contributed to the accident, although thunderstorms and wind gusts reaching about 30 mph (48 kph) were reported in the area around the time of the crash, according to the National Weather Service.<h2>Watch the video</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Footage shows the moment that the 21 Air Flight 7598 overran the runway and crashed at Miami International Airport. Per reports, at least 5 individuals are dead with an unspecified number of injuries. <a href="https://t.co/cOKhKwoTwh">pic.twitter.com/cOKhKwoTwh</a>&mdash; OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) <a href="https://x.com/sentdefender/status/2096753873163575431?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The flight was operated by 21 Air, a North Carolina-based cargo carrier. According to flight-tracking website Flightradar24, the 32-year-old Boeing 767 was initially manufactured as a passenger aircraft and operated with several airlines for more than 20 years before being converted into a freighter in 2015. The accident significantly disrupted operations at Miami International Airport, with flights suspended for much of Sunday afternoon. FlightAware reported that more than 160 flights had been canceled and nearly 325 delayed by late Sunday. Officials at Orlando International Airport, located more than 200 miles (320 km) north of Miami, said some flights were diverted there.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-s-far-right-afd-projected-to-score-its-biggest-win-in-key-state-election-may-fall-short-of-majority-1788725154703">Germany’s far-right AfD projected to score its biggest win in key state election, may fall short of majority</a>&nbsp;The National Transportation Safety Board said it was dispatching an investigative team to Miami under the leadership of Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy. Amazon said it would cooperate fully with the investigation. "We're heartbroken to learn that five people lost their lives in today's incident at Miami International Airport," the company said. "Our deepest sympathies go out to the families, loved ones, and all those affected by this devastating loss."&nbsp;The Miami crash comes less than a year after another deadly cargo-plane accident in the United States. A UPS aircraft crashed after losing an engine while accelerating down the runway at Louisville's Muhammad Ali International Airport. The accident killed all three pilots and 12 people on the ground, while another 23 people were injured. Aviation safety expert Steve Arroyo said a Boeing 767 cargo aircraft operating a domestic flight would generally have two crew members: a pilot and a copilot. International flights would typically require additional pilots, with long-haul international operations potentially carrying a total of four pilots.&nbsp;Arroyo said investigators will likely examine where the Amazon aircraft touched down and why the crew did not abort the landing if the plane was already beyond the appropriate touchdown area. "Did the aircraft land within the required touchdown zone?" he asked. “If it did, what happened?” The standard landing zone is generally within the first 3,000 feet (914 meters) of a runway. Investigators are expected to closely examine the aircraft's touchdown point, speed, braking performance, runway conditions and the crew's decisions during the landing.&nbsp;According to the FAA, runway arresting systems have been credited with helping save at least 497 lives aboard aircraft involved in runway overruns. The investigation will determine what caused the Amazon cargo aircraft to leave the runway and whether factors including the aircraft's touchdown point, weather, runway conditions, braking, mechanical performance or crew actions contributed to the deadly accident.

Amazon cargo plane crashes at Miami International Airport after overrunning the runway, killing five and injuring five. NTSB investigates the cause

An Amazon cargo plane overran a runway at Miami International Airport on Sunday after arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico, striking vehicles on a nearby roadway and bursting into flames. Authorities said at least five people were killed and five others injured. The aircraft veered beyond the runway at around 2 pm and crossed a road used by warehouse employees and businesses operating around the airport. Miami-Dade County officials said three of the injured people were in critical condition, while two others suffered less serious injuries. Officials said it was too early to determine whether those killed were aboard the aircraft or inside the vehicles struck by the plane. The crash created a massive emergency response, with thick black smoke rising above the airport. Miami-Dade Rescue Fire Chief Ray Jadallah said the pilot and copilot were trapped inside the cockpit, while several people in vehicles also became trapped. Emergency crews additionally had to rescue a person who was pinned beneath a vehicle. Around 200 emergency personnel responded to the incident. Firefighters encountered heavy flames and smoke coming from a complex engine compartment fire and used specialized airport firefighting equipment and foam to bring the blaze under control. Hours after the crash, crews were still working to contain a fuel leak from the aircraft. The Prime Air aircraft eventually came to rest beside a roadway near two semi-trucks. Images from the scene showed the Boeing 767 resting on its belly and appearing largely intact despite extensive fire damage. The cause of the crash remained unknown. Investigators had not determined whether weather conditions contributed to the accident, although thunderstorms and wind gusts reaching about 30 mph (48 kph) were reported in the area around the time of the crash, according to the National Weather Service. Watch the video

Amazon cargo plane crashes after overrunning a Miami airport runway, killing five, injuring five and triggering a major emergency response

At least five killed after Amazon cargo plane runs off overruns runway at Miami airport

The far-right, anti-immigration, populist Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) has emerged as the winner in a crucial state election in Germany on Sunday, with projections saying it will win more than 44 per cent of the vote in the eastern region of Saxony-Anhalt.&nbsp;As per the exit polls, AfD is more than doubling its support and securing a historic result. The AfD seems to on the brink of becoming the first far-right party to gain power in Germany at the state level since the Second World War.Initial exit polls showed the party would secure 44.4% of the vote, more than predicted.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Christian Democrats (CDU) of Chancellor Friedrich Merz were trailing far behind with around 18.4%—a huge dip from the 37. 1 per cent in 2021. The far-left Die Linke was third with 9.3%, with the Social Democrats on 8.4% and the Greens on 8.7%.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-probes-shameful-nasty-anti-india-racist-remarks-after-nepal-floods-1788705307336">Singapore probes ‘shameful, nasty’ anti-India racist remarks after Nepal floods</a>&nbsp;The smaller BSW reached the 5% hurdle needed to re-enter parliament, against expectations. The party, an offshoot of Die Linke, has agreed to cooperate with the AfD on issues such as energy price reform.Voter participation was at a record high of 76.5%.&nbsp;Votes were being counted, but it appeared initially that the AfD might have failed to secure an absolute majority – the condition it has said is central to it taking power, given its refusal to govern with another party.The CDU and all other mainstream parties have also refused to collude with the AfD in a government, in what is referred to as a Brandmauer, or firewall.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-may-drag-on-for-another-6-months-ex-us-defence-secretary-leon-panetta-1788699706418">Iran War may drag on for another 6 months: Ex-US defence secretary Leon Panetta</a>&nbsp;The AfD in Saxony-Anhalt has been classed as “rightwing extremist” by Germany’s domestic intelligence agency.Ulrich Siegmund, the AfD’s lead candidate in Saxony-Anhalt, addressed jubilant supporters saying, “We have made history in this country”. He added that his party was ready to ⁠reach out to ‌all powers ‌that ‌strove for political change.&nbsp;“We extend a hand to all ‌democratic forces that wish to pursue better policies,” said Siegmund after ⁠exit polls were published. He said themes such as migration and domestic security were not up for debate.&nbsp;The CDU described its result as “bitter” but said it would not back down from its refusal to rule together with the AfD.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-wants-war-again-russian-fm-accuses-berlin-after-drone-incident-1788704526585">‘Germany wants war again’: Russian FM accuses Berlin after drone incident</a>&nbsp;Franziska Hoppermann, general secretary of the CDU, called it a “defeat overall” for the Christian Democrats.&nbsp;In one recent poll, only 9% of voters in Saxony-Anhalt said they were satisfied with Merz’s politics. Siegmund called Merz “a very good campaigner for the AfD”.Alice Weidel, the AfD’s co-leader, said the result gave her party a “clear government mandate” and that it would “talk to all the parties” to work out a strategy as to how the AfD could rule.&nbsp;The small state has been governed since 2002 by Merz’s conservative CDU, together with two smaller parties. Merz has failed to fulfil his promises of resetting Germany’s struggling economy, while the AfD has been making regular and steady gains since it entered parliament in 2017 and is now the leading opposition party.&nbsp;

The Christian Democrats (CDU) of Chancellor Friedrich Merz were trailing far behind with around 18.4%—a huge dip from the 37. 1 per cent in 2021. The far-left Die Linke was third with 9.3%, with the Social Democrats on 8.4% and the Greens on 8.7%.

The far-right, anti-immigration, populist Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) has emerged as the winner in a crucial state election in Germany on Sunday, with projections saying it will win more than 44 per cent of the vote in the eastern region of Saxony-Anhalt. As per the exit polls, AfD is more than doubling its support and securing a historic result. The AfD seems to on the brink of becoming the first far-right party to gain power in Germany at the state level since the Second World War. Initial exit polls showed the party would secure 44.4% of the vote, more than predicted. The Christian Democrats (CDU) of Chancellor Friedrich Merz were trailing far behind with around 18.4%—a huge dip from the 37. 1 per cent in 2021. The far-left Die Linke was third with 9.3%, with the Social Democrats on 8.4% and the Greens on 8.7%. Also Read: Singapore probes ‘shameful, nasty’ anti-India racist remarks after Nepal floods The smaller BSW reached the 5% hurdle needed to re-enter parliament, against expectations. The party, an offshoot of Die Linke, has agreed to cooperate with the AfD on issues such as energy price reform. Voter participation was at a record high of 76.5%. Votes were being counted, but it appeared initially that the AfD might have failed to secure an absolute majority – the condition it has said is central to it taking power, given its refusal to govern with another party. The CDU and all other mainstream parties have also refused to collude with the AfD in a government, in what is referred to as a Brandmauer, or firewall. Also Read: Iran War may drag on for another 6 months: Ex-US defence secretary Leon Panetta The AfD in Saxony-Anhalt has been classed as “rightwing extremist” by Germany’s domestic intelligence agency. Ulrich Siegmund, the AfD’s lead candidate in Saxony-Anhalt, addressed jubilant supporters saying, “We have made history in this country”. He added that his party was ready to ⁠reach out to ‌all powers ‌that ‌strove for political change. “We extend a hand to all ‌democratic forces that wish to pursue better policies,” said Siegmund after ⁠exit polls were published. He said themes such as migration and domestic security were not up for debate. The CDU described its result as “bitter” but said it would not back down from its refusal to rule together with the AfD. Also Read: ‘Germany wants war again’: Russian FM accuses Berlin after drone incident Franziska Hoppermann, general secretary of the CDU, called it a “defeat overall” for the Christian Democrats. In one recent poll, only 9% of voters in Saxony-Anhalt said they were satisfied with Merz’s politics. Siegmund called Merz “a very good campaigner for the AfD”. Alice Weidel, the AfD’s co-leader, said the result gave her party a “clear government mandate” and that it would “talk to all the parties” to work out a strategy as to how the AfD could rule. The small state has been governed since 2002 by Merz’s conservative CDU, together with two smaller parties. Merz has failed to fulfil his promises of resetting Germany’s struggling economy, while the AfD has been making regular and steady gains since it entered parliament in 2017 and is now the leading opposition party.

The Christian Democrats (CDU) of Chancellor Friedrich Merz were trailing far behind with around 18.4%—a huge dip from the 37. 1 per cent in 2021. The far-left Die Linke was third with 9.3%, with the Social Democrats on 8.4% and the Greens on 8.7%.

Germany’s far-right AfD projected to score its biggest win in key state election, may fall short of majority

New Delhi: Singapore’s prime minister and former premier have condemned a wave of racist online comments targeting the country’s Indian community, warning that prejudice must not be allowed to take root. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said an “uglier side” had emerged after flash floods on the Nepal-Tibet border left nine Singaporeans missing and after questions were raised about Singapore Airlines’ investment in Air India.&nbsp;“Racist comments were made about Singaporeans who remain missing,” he wrote. “More recently, questions about SIA’s investment in Air India have been accompanied by anti-Indian abuse.” Wong said Singapore could and should have robust debate. “But we should never use seemingly legitimate arguments as a cover to fuel prejudice against any community or hostility towards foreigners.”&nbsp;Such views “do not represent Singapore”, he added. “But neither can we dismiss them as harmless online chatter. If such behaviour goes unchecked, it can become normalised, deepen mistrust between communities, and pull us apart.”&nbsp;Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who served as prime minister from 2004 to 2024, said the country’s first response to the Nepal disaster should have been “compassion and solidarity”. “It is deeply troubling to see racist comments and hateful remarks directed at our Indian community in the wake of the tragedy,” he said. “It is equally troubling when legitimate issues for public discussion, like Singapore Airlines’ investment in Air India, are distorted or exploited to stir vicious racial, anti-Indian resentment.”&nbsp;Lee said race and religion would “always be a fault line” in Singapore. “Human beings are not race blind. Singapore will always be vulnerable to these visceral and divisive pulls.” The comments follow remarks on Saturday by Senior Minister and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam, who said police were investigating “shameful, nasty and totally unacceptable” posts, including those from overseas accounts.&nbsp;Some comments about the missing Singaporeans suggested they were “not our own” or used a derogatory term for Indians. Criticism of the Air India investment included racial stereotypes and attacks on Temasek executives. The 26 August floods, triggered by a glacier collapse in the Himalayas, have killed more than 1,200 people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Singapore has sent police specialists to help identify victims and provided humanitarian aid.&nbsp;Wong said similar anti-foreigner and racial sentiments had surfaced during Covid-19, debates over a free-trade pact, and last year’s general election. “There will always be people who seek to exploit our differences,” he wrote. “How we respond is up to us.”&nbsp;Both men invoked Singapore’s National Pledge. “We must never allow prejudice against any community to become accepted or normal in Singapore,” Wong said. Lee urged citizens to “reject hatred… and stand by one another regardless of race, language or religion.”

Some comments about the missing Singaporeans suggested they were “not our own” or used a derogatory term for Indians. Criticism of the Air India investment included racial stereotypes and attacks on Temasek executives.

New Delhi: Singapore’s prime minister and former premier have condemned a wave of racist online comments targeting the country’s Indian community, warning that prejudice must not be allowed to take root. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said an “uglier side” had emerged after flash floods on the Nepal-Tibet border left nine Singaporeans missing and after questions were raised about Singapore Airlines’ investment in Air India. “Racist comments were made about Singaporeans who remain missing,” he wrote. “More recently, questions about SIA’s investment in Air India have been accompanied by anti-Indian abuse.” Wong said Singapore could and should have robust debate. “But we should never use seemingly legitimate arguments as a cover to fuel prejudice against any community or hostility towards foreigners.” Such views “do not represent Singapore”, he added. “But neither can we dismiss them as harmless online chatter. If such behaviour goes unchecked, it can become normalised, deepen mistrust between communities, and pull us apart.” Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who served as prime minister from 2004 to 2024, said the country’s first response to the Nepal disaster should have been “compassion and solidarity”. “It is deeply troubling to see racist comments and hateful remarks directed at our Indian community in the wake of the tragedy,” he said. “It is equally troubling when legitimate issues for public discussion, like Singapore Airlines’ investment in Air India, are distorted or exploited to stir vicious racial, anti-Indian resentment.” Lee said race and religion would “always be a fault line” in Singapore. “Human beings are not race blind. Singapore will always be vulnerable to these visceral and divisive pulls.” The comments follow remarks on Saturday by Senior Minister and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam, who said police were investigating “shameful, nasty and totally unacceptable” posts, including those from overseas accounts. Some comments about the missing Singaporeans suggested they were “not our own” or used a derogatory term for Indians. Criticism of the Air India investment included racial stereotypes and attacks on Temasek executives. The 26 August floods, triggered by a glacier collapse in the Himalayas, have killed more than 1,200 people. Singapore has sent police specialists to help identify victims and provided humanitarian aid. Wong said similar anti-foreigner and racial sentiments had surfaced during Covid-19, debates over a free-trade pact, and last year’s general election. “There will always be people who seek to exploit our differences,” he wrote. “How we respond is up to us.” Both men invoked Singapore’s National Pledge. “We must never allow prejudice against any community to become accepted or normal in Singapore,” Wong said. Lee urged citizens to “reject hatred… and stand by one another regardless of race, language or religion.”

Some comments about the missing Singaporeans suggested they were “not our own” or used a derogatory term for Indians. Criticism of the Air India investment included racial stereotypes and attacks on Temasek executives.

Singapore leaders condemn anti-Indian racism after Nepal floods, SIA-Air India investment deal

Following talks with US envoys in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Sep 6) warned that war with Russia appears likely to continue this winter. Although he suggested that there was a “positive assessment” of talks with US President Donald Trump’s negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Zelensky added that US and Ukrainian teams also discussed security and economic guarantees for Kyiv. This comes after Witkoff and Kushner marked their first visit to Kyiv. The meeting came a day after they held discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.<h2>War to continue in winter?</h2>Speaking after the discussions with Witkoff and Kushner, Zelensky said he was hopeful that an agreement will be reached with the United States. He also said that Ukrainians were counting on support from European allies. He suggested that it “appeared” that the war will continue in the winter.Speaking after the discussions with Witkoff and Kushner, Zelensky said, “We very much hope that we will be able to reach agreements with our American partners, and we are counting on the support of our European partners – if the war continues in winter, and this is how it appears at the moment – but even so, the teams today have a positive assessment of our future prospects.”<h2>What Zelensky said on territorial issues</h2>The Ukrainian President said that the territorial issues between Kyiv and Moscow could only be resolved “at the level of leaders”. Zelensky has previously suggested talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has repeatedly said Moscow intends to seize the rest of eastern Ukraine.“I want to stick to my view that such complex issues can only be resolved at the level of leaders,” he said.Following talks with Zelensky, Witkoff said that both Russia and Ukraine need to make “compromises” to end the war that has been going on for more than four years.&nbsp;“It’s going to take both sides to make some compromises and narrow the issues between them and we think we have the ingredients to get to that place,” Witkoff said.“It is very difficult but we are committed, we care and we hope all of that leads to a successful peaceful diplomatic resolution,” he added.<h2>Kyiv talks</h2>The talks took place alongside discussions involving British, French and German representatives. Zelensky welcomed the European presence, saying, “We are grateful that the Europeans are with us today and that we are in such a coalition of countries. Here we are all on the same side.”The American delegation arrived by train at Kyiv Central Station, where “Peace Express” was written on the platform. Zelensky said Ukraine had prepared its airports for the visit, but Russian strikes had made air travel impossible.A White House official said the envoys had discussed “substantive plans which will be announced in the coming weeks”. The Kremlin said the Americans had proposed ideas for a settlement, without providing details.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned the Russia-Ukraine war could continue through winter, while saying Kyiv had a positive assessment of peace prospects. He said territorial issues require leader-level talks.

Following talks with US envoys in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Sep 6) warned that war with Russia appears likely to continue this winter. Although he suggested that there was a “positive assessment” of talks with US President Donald Trump’s negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Zelensky added that US and Ukrainian teams also discussed security and economic guarantees for Kyiv. This comes after Witkoff and Kushner marked their first visit to Kyiv. The meeting came a day after they held discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. War to continue in winter? Speaking after the discussions with Witkoff and Kushner, Zelensky said he was hopeful that an agreement will be reached with the United States. He also said that Ukrainians were counting on support from European allies. He suggested that it “appeared” that the war will continue in the winter. Speaking after the discussions with Witkoff and Kushner, Zelensky said, “We very much hope that we will be able to reach agreements with our American partners, and we are counting on the support of our European partners – if the war continues in winter, and this is how it appears at the moment – but even so, the teams today have a positive assessment of our future prospects.” What Zelensky said on territorial issues The Ukrainian President said that the territorial issues between Kyiv and Moscow could only be resolved “at the level of leaders”. Zelensky has previously suggested talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has repeatedly said Moscow intends to seize the rest of eastern Ukraine. “I want to stick to my view that such complex issues can only be resolved at the level of leaders,” he said. Following talks with Zelensky, Witkoff said that both Russia and Ukraine need to make “compromises” to end the war that has been going on for more than four years. “It’s going to take both sides to make some compromises and narrow the issues between them and we think we have the ingredients to get to that place,” Witkoff said. “It is very difficult but we are committed, we care and we hope all of that leads to a successful peaceful diplomatic resolution,” he added. Kyiv talks The talks took place alongside discussions involving British, French and German representatives. Zelensky welcomed the European presence, saying, “We are grateful that the Europeans are with us today and that we are in such a coalition of countries. Here we are all on the same side.” The American delegation arrived by train at Kyiv Central Station, where “Peace Express” was written on the platform. Zelensky said Ukraine had prepared its airports for the visit, but Russian strikes had made air travel impossible. A White House official said the envoys had discussed “substantive plans which will be announced in the coming weeks”. The Kremlin said the Americans had proposed ideas for a settlement, without providing details.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned the Russia-Ukraine war could continue through winter, while saying Kyiv had a positive assessment of peace prospects. He said territorial issues require leader-level talks.

War to continue in winter? What Zelensky said on Russia-Ukriane conflict, territorial issue after talks with US envoys

Ukraine is considering legalising pornography as authorities look to boost tax revenues and generate funds for the country’s war effort against Russia.&nbsp;The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that the production, possession and distribution of pornography are currently illegal in Ukraine and can carry a prison sentence of up to seven years. Despite the ban, the adult entertainment industry has expanded significantly in recent years, with much of it operating in an environment allegedly marked by police corruption, according to the report.Ukrainian authorities have also begun demanding taxes from adult content creators. However, creators who pay those taxes could effectively be admitting to taking part in an activity that remains illegal under the country’s pornography laws.Ukrainian lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak is backing legislation that would legalise pornography and bring the industry into the formal economy. He estimates the move could generate up to $25 million in tax revenue for Ukraine, which could then support the war effort.According to Zhelezniak, the additional revenue could be enough to fund as many as 30,000 drones.“These women either don’t pay taxes and face criminal charges for that, or they pay taxes and get charged with violating pornography laws,” Zhelezniak, who chairs the finance committee in Ukraine’s Parliament, told the WSJ. “It’s a tragicomic situation.”<h2>Adult industry expands despite ban</h2>Before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, authorities largely turned a blind eye to the country’s adult entertainment industry, the WSJ reported.However, the report said corruption has remained a major issue. Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office has alleged that police in three regions received bribes of up to $20,000.The scale of the industry has also grown sharply since the invasion. Fenix International, the parent company of OnlyFans, found that 7,900 Ukrainians earned more than $131 million through the platform in 2023 alone, according to the WSJ.Authorities subsequently began sending letters to content creators who had declared their earnings for tax purposes, with some later facing allegations of tax evasion and illegal production of adult content.<h2>OnlyFans creators face criminal cases</h2>One such creator, Svitlana Dvornikova, told the WSJ that police raided her home while she was preparing her daughter for school. Officers seized $20,000 in cash, her laptop and hard drives, she said.“They had a list of webcam models, and knew all their addresses,” Dvornikova told the newspaper.She alleged that officers offered her the option of paying a bribe to prevent the matter from progressing, but she refused.Another woman told the WSJ that police carried out a similar search at her apartment. She was later summoned for a court hearing but did not attend, saying she feared she would be forced to pay a bribe.Several Ukrainian OnlyFans creators, including Dvornikova, have since left the country or moved temporarily to other parts of Europe.“This is a victimless crime,” Lesia Mykhalenko, a tax lawyer who has represented more than 100 OnlyFans models, told the WSJ. “It unnecessarily burdens the legal system at a time when we should be focused on defending the country.”Dvornikova later filed a petition after a case was brought against her. The petition was subsequently published on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s website.In it, she described herself as a “conscientious taxpayer” and argued that the government should not treat her as a criminal after she had paid nearly $900,000 in taxes. She claimed the amount was equivalent to “hundreds of Russians killed on the front line”.&nbsp;

Ukraine considers legalizing pornography to eliminate corruption, register adult creators, and generate $25 million in tax revenues to purchase up to 30,000 military drones for the war effort.

Ukraine is considering legalising pornography as authorities look to boost tax revenues and generate funds for the country’s war effort against Russia. The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that the production, possession and distribution of pornography are currently illegal in Ukraine and can carry a prison sentence of up to seven years. Despite the ban, the adult entertainment industry has expanded significantly in recent years, with much of it operating in an environment allegedly marked by police corruption, according to the report. Ukrainian authorities have also begun demanding taxes from adult content creators. However, creators who pay those taxes could effectively be admitting to taking part in an activity that remains illegal under the country’s pornography laws. Ukrainian lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak is backing legislation that would legalise pornography and bring the industry into the formal economy. He estimates the move could generate up to $25 million in tax revenue for Ukraine, which could then support the war effort. According to Zhelezniak, the additional revenue could be enough to fund as many as 30,000 drones. “These women either don’t pay taxes and face criminal charges for that, or they pay taxes and get charged with violating pornography laws,” Zhelezniak, who chairs the finance committee in Ukraine’s Parliament, told the WSJ. “It’s a tragicomic situation.” Adult industry expands despite ban Before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, authorities largely turned a blind eye to the country’s adult entertainment industry, the WSJ reported. However, the report said corruption has remained a major issue. Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office has alleged that police in three regions received bribes of up to $20,000. The scale of the industry has also grown sharply since the invasion. Fenix International, the parent company of OnlyFans, found that 7,900 Ukrainians earned more than $131 million through the platform in 2023 alone, according to the WSJ. Authorities subsequently began sending letters to content creators who had declared their earnings for tax purposes, with some later facing allegations of tax evasion and illegal production of adult content. OnlyFans creators face criminal cases One such creator, Svitlana Dvornikova, told the WSJ that police raided her home while she was preparing her daughter for school. Officers seized $20,000 in cash, her laptop and hard drives, she said. “They had a list of webcam models, and knew all their addresses,” Dvornikova told the newspaper. She alleged that officers offered her the option of paying a bribe to prevent the matter from progressing, but she refused. Another woman told the WSJ that police carried out a similar search at her apartment. She was later summoned for a court hearing but did not attend, saying she feared she would be forced to pay a bribe. Several Ukrainian OnlyFans creators, including Dvornikova, have since left the country or moved temporarily to other parts of Europe. “This is a victimless crime,” Lesia Mykhalenko, a tax lawyer who has represented more than 100 OnlyFans models, told the WSJ. “It unnecessarily burdens the legal system at a time when we should be focused on defending the country.” Dvornikova later filed a petition after a case was brought against her. The petition was subsequently published on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s website. In it, she described herself as a “conscientious taxpayer” and argued that the government should not treat her as a criminal after she had paid nearly $900,000 in taxes. She claimed the amount was equivalent to “hundreds of Russians killed on the front line”.

Ukraine considers legalizing pornography to eliminate corruption, register adult creators, and generate $25 million in tax revenues to purchase up to 30,000 military drones for the war effort.

Ukraine to legalise porn to raise $25mn for war against Russia. Yes, you read that right

Iran said on Sunday that it struck an unmanned US vessel trying to enter the Strait of Hormuz; however, the US military has denied these claims as a “total lie.” This attack comes just a day after the US military said it struck three Iranian oil tankers in response to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) firing ballistic missiles at two US Navy warships patrolling the region.“The report came from Iranian state media, and it’s a total lie,” said Captain Tim Hawkins, spokesman for US Central Command.Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that at least three tankers and energy carriers, VELOS AMBER, BRAVO, and AL SHEEHANIYA, travelling through the southern route of the Strait of Hormuz, changed course and turned back after receiving a warning from the IRGC Navy that the route was closed.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-un-correct-the-map-resolution-jammu-kashmir-ladakh-1788707252140">India backs UN ‘Correct the Map’ resolution, draws red line on J&amp;K, Ladakh</a>The US-Iran exchange of attacks resumed last week following a period of relative calm, with the Strait of Hormuz and areas along Iran’s southern coast again being targeted. At the same time, the US is also targeting Iranian economic interests globally. The Trump administration appears to have adopted a dual-pronged approach: military attack at the Hormuz alongside economic pressure by going after foreign financial institutions that handle Iran’s money.However, Iran maintains that it will not surrender to US pressure. Major General Ali Abdollahi, Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, said the US and Israel were seeking to make up for their military and strategic setbacks in confrontations with Iran and regional resistance groups through economic pressure, media warfare and cognitive operations.&nbsp;

Iran claimed it struck an unmanned US vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, but US Central Command denied the report as a “total lie” amid rising tensions.

Iran said on Sunday that it struck an unmanned US vessel trying to enter the Strait of Hormuz; however, the US military has denied these claims as a “total lie.” This attack comes just a day after the US military said it struck three Iranian oil tankers in response to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) firing ballistic missiles at two US Navy warships patrolling the region. “The report came from Iranian state media, and it’s a total lie,” said Captain Tim Hawkins, spokesman for US Central Command. Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that at least three tankers and energy carriers, VELOS AMBER, BRAVO, and AL SHEEHANIYA, travelling through the southern route of the Strait of Hormuz, changed course and turned back after receiving a warning from the IRGC Navy that the route was closed. Also Read: India backs UN ‘Correct the Map’ resolution, draws red line on J&K, Ladakh The US-Iran exchange of attacks resumed last week following a period of relative calm, with the Strait of Hormuz and areas along Iran’s southern coast again being targeted. At the same time, the US is also targeting Iranian economic interests globally. The Trump administration appears to have adopted a dual-pronged approach: military attack at the Hormuz alongside economic pressure by going after foreign financial institutions that handle Iran’s money. However, Iran maintains that it will not surrender to US pressure. Major General Ali Abdollahi, Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, said the US and Israel were seeking to make up for their military and strategic setbacks in confrontations with Iran and regional resistance groups through economic pressure, media warfare and cognitive operations.

Iran claimed it struck an unmanned US vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, but US Central Command denied the report as a “total lie” amid rising tensions.

Iran claims US vessel strike near Strait of Hormuz, Pentagon calls it ‘total lie’

US envoy Steve Witkoff and fellow emissary Jared Kushner held “important” talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Sep 6). The discussions aimed to revive Washington’s efforts to end the war with Russia. The meeting marked their first visit to Kyiv, a day after discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.“We've had a very meaningful discussion, substantive, important, and we are very encouraged and we look forward to continuing this as long as it takes,” Witkoff said after meeting Zelensky.Kushner said the delegation had learned from the trip and hoped it would help advance peace efforts. “Hopefully this trip has come out with some new ways to advance forward. I think we've learned a lot from the trip,” he said.<h2>European backing, no breakthrough</h2>The talks took place alongside discussions involving British, French and German representatives. Zelensky welcomed the European presence, saying, “We are grateful that the Europeans are with us today and that we are in such a coalition of countries. Here we are all on the same side.”The American delegation arrived by train at Kyiv Central Station, where “Peace Express” was written on the platform. Zelensky said Ukraine had prepared its airports for the visit, but Russian strikes had made air travel impossible.A White House official said the envoys had discussed “substantive plans which will be announced in the coming weeks”. The Kremlin said the Americans had proposed ideas for a settlement, without providing details.<h2>Doubts persist</h2>The visit came as fighting continued and hopes for a quick agreement remained limited. Putin has repeatedly said Moscow intends to seize the rest of eastern Ukraine, while Russia intensified attacks this summer.Ukraine’s air force reported 108 drones and missiles in an overnight attack, while Moscow said it had shot down 258 Ukrainian drones. Ukraine also said 10 people were killed in Russian strikes on Saturday (Sep 5).US President Donald Trump has said his envoys were bringing a “proposal” to end the fighting. “We have an idea for peace,” he said, without elaborating.While the talks offered a new opening, there were no clear signs that the war was nearing an end.

US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held “important” Kyiv talks with Zelensky after meeting Putin, seeking peace in Ukraine. No breakthrough was reported, but further plans are expected.

US envoy Steve Witkoff and fellow emissary Jared Kushner held “important” talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Sep 6). The discussions aimed to revive Washington’s efforts to end the war with Russia. The meeting marked their first visit to Kyiv, a day after discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. “We've had a very meaningful discussion, substantive, important, and we are very encouraged and we look forward to continuing this as long as it takes,” Witkoff said after meeting Zelensky. Kushner said the delegation had learned from the trip and hoped it would help advance peace efforts. “Hopefully this trip has come out with some new ways to advance forward. I think we've learned a lot from the trip,” he said. European backing, no breakthrough The talks took place alongside discussions involving British, French and German representatives. Zelensky welcomed the European presence, saying, “We are grateful that the Europeans are with us today and that we are in such a coalition of countries. Here we are all on the same side.” The American delegation arrived by train at Kyiv Central Station, where “Peace Express” was written on the platform. Zelensky said Ukraine had prepared its airports for the visit, but Russian strikes had made air travel impossible. A White House official said the envoys had discussed “substantive plans which will be announced in the coming weeks”. The Kremlin said the Americans had proposed ideas for a settlement, without providing details. Doubts persist The visit came as fighting continued and hopes for a quick agreement remained limited. Putin has repeatedly said Moscow intends to seize the rest of eastern Ukraine, while Russia intensified attacks this summer. Ukraine’s air force reported 108 drones and missiles in an overnight attack, while Moscow said it had shot down 258 Ukrainian drones. Ukraine also said 10 people were killed in Russian strikes on Saturday (Sep 5). US President Donald Trump has said his envoys were bringing a “proposal” to end the fighting. “We have an idea for peace,” he said, without elaborating. While the talks offered a new opening, there were no clear signs that the war was nearing an end.

US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held “important” Kyiv talks with Zelensky after meeting Putin, seeking peace in Ukraine. No breakthrough was reported, but further plans are expected.

‘Had a very meaningful discussion’: Witkoff, Kushner hold ‘important’ talks with Zelensky in Kyiv

A 34-year-old man identified as Dunu Bethel Ebubechukwu, who allegedly masterminded cocaine shipments to Saudi Arabia, has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Lagos.Ebubechukwu, who was arrested during a sting operation at Article Market, opposite Trade Fair Market in the Ojo area of Lagos on Friday, September 4, 2026, was allegedly operating under the cover of a herbal tea business.His arrest followed an intelligence-led investigation into the interception of 1.2 kilogrammes of cocaine concealed inside phone chargers and destined for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The consignment was intercepted at a courier company in Lagos on July 31.According to the NDLEA, Ebubechukwu admitted during interrogation that he had masterminded previous illicit drug shipments. He also reportedly discarded his telephone SIM card after learning that the latest consignment had been intercepted.Investigators discovered that the suspect had previously been arrested at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in 2011 after allegedly ingesting 900 grammes of cocaine and 130 grammes of heroin while attempting to travel to Austria.He was prosecuted, convicted and sentenced to five years in prison. The agency said he subsequently changed his name from Dunu Chukwuyenre Enoch to Dunu Bethel Ebubechukwu before allegedly returning to drug trafficking.A search of his residence at Yemishola Street, Ejigbo, Lagos, also led to the recovery of phone chargers similar to those used to conceal the intercepted cocaine. Their internal components had reportedly been removed to create compartments for drugs.The arrest was part of a wider NDLEA crackdown across nine states in which the agency said it recovered more than two million opioid pills, tonnes of cannabis, methamphetamine and other controlled substances.At the Lagos airport, NDLEA operatives recovered 966,200 tablets of Tramadol 225mg valued at more than N1.1 billion. The drugs were concealed among thrift trousers in a 21-carton consignment imported from Pakistan.In another operation at the airport, 57.8kg of Loud, a potent synthetic strain of cannabis valued at more than N173 million, was recovered from cartons of disposable hand gloves in a shipment from Singapore. The consignment had remained unclaimed for weeks before a joint examination involving the NDLEA, Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies on September 3.In Ondo State, officers intercepted a 20,000-litre fuel tanker, marked MKA 960 XC, along the Akoko-Lokoja Expressway on September 4 after the driver allegedly refused to stop. The driver later abandoned the tanker at a church premises in Ugbe Akoko and fled into the bush.A search of the vehicle uncovered a concealed compartment containing 165 bags of cannabis weighing 2,145kg, alongside the legitimate fuel cargo reportedly destined for Jos, Plateau State.At the Lagos Port, the NDLEA also intercepted 598.08kg, comprising 890 packets, of cannabis-infused cookies and gummies in a 40-foot container on September 2. The agency linked the consignment to three suspects—Yashim Dauji, Larry Ifeanyi and Joseph Moji—who were previously arrested following the seizure of 842.54kg of cannabis-laced cookies at Tin Can Island Port.In Adamawa State, 864,000 opioid pills, particularly tramadol, were recovered from a residence linked to a fleeing suspect, Patrick KC Frank, in the Damilu-Jambutu axis of Jimeta, Yola North Local Government Area.Frank allegedly rammed his Honda Civic into an NDLEA patrol vehicle before escaping.Another suspect, 35-year-old Calistus Ebubechukwu, described by the agency as a major methamphetamine supplier operating between Lagos, Mubi and Michika, was arrested in Michika with 2kg of methamphetamine.The NDLEA also intercepted Attahiru Hussaini at Namtari checkpoint in Mubi on August 31. He was allegedly transporting tramadol and other opioids concealed in a soap-laden Ford Galaxy bus marked JJM-953XD.In Lagos, officers recovered 2,386.9kg of cannabis, 350 grammes of cocaine, more than 100kg of various grades of tramadol, 9.7 litres of codeine syrup and 4kg of Rohypnol in the Gbaji area. Two suspects, Damilare Francis and Emeh Emmanuel, were also arrested at Agbara with 720kg of cannabis.Meanwhile, three suspects—Saidu Mustapha, 35; Zaharadeen Salisu, 29; and AbdulSalam Abdullahi, 25—were arrested in Kogi State with 636kg of cannabis allegedly concealed in chicken manure aboard a bus travelling from Owo in Ondo State to Jos, Plateau State.In Taraba State, 58-year-old Kelechi Unachukwu was arrested along the Zaki-Biam Road in Wukari Local Government Area with more than 109kg of controlled substances, including tramadol, diazepam, pentazocine, phenobarbital, Exol-5, nitrazepam, bromazepam and pregabalin. The drugs were allegedly being conveyed in his Toyota Corolla from Onitsha, Anambra State, to Yola, Adamawa State.In Kaduna, NDLEA operatives intercepted a truck carrying bags of cement along the Zaria-Kano Expressway and recovered 1,179kg of skunk.In Bauchi, a 25-year-old suspect, Hamza Dahiru, was arrested in a follow-up operation after the seizure of 322.5kg of cannabis in Deba town, Gombe State, on September 1.In Ekiti State, two suspects, Chuks Alex, 50, and Asafa Adekunle, 35, were arrested after NDLEA officers discovered and destroyed a four-hectare cannabis farm in Efon-Alaaye forest. The operation also led to the recovery of 117kg of already harvested cannabis.In Enugu State, a 20-year-old man, Obinna David, was arrested at Ugbema Junction on September 5 with 40,590 capsules of tramadol.Beyond the arrests and seizures, the NDLEA said its commands across the country continued with drug-abuse awareness campaigns under its War Against Drug Abuse programme. The sensitisation activities targeted schools, worship centres, workplaces and communities.The agency said its recent activities included an enlightenment lecture for nursing mothers and nurses at Ibereko Primary Health Centre in Abeokuta North, Ogun State, as well as engagements with youths in Umouji/Okwo community in Olokoro, Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State, and staff and concessionaires at the Saipem-Daewoo, NLNG terminal in Bonny, Rivers State.NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), commended officers involved in the operations and urged them to sustain what he described as a balanced approach to drug control.Marwa said traffickers who attempt to evade law enforcement by adopting new identities or operating behind legitimate businesses would continue to be tracked down.

According to the NDLEA, Ebubechukwu admitted during interrogation that he had masterminded previous illicit drug shipments. He also reportedly discarded his telephone SIM card after learning that the latest consignment had been intercepted.

A 34-year-old man identified as Dunu Bethel Ebubechukwu, who allegedly masterminded cocaine shipments to Saudi Arabia, has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Lagos. Ebubechukwu, who was arrested during a sting operation at Article Market, opposite Trade Fair Market in the Ojo area of Lagos on Friday, September 4, 2026, was allegedly operating under the cover of a herbal tea business. His arrest followed an intelligence-led investigation into the interception of 1.2 kilogrammes of cocaine concealed inside phone chargers and destined for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The consignment was intercepted at a courier company in Lagos on July 31. According to the NDLEA, Ebubechukwu admitted during interrogation that he had masterminded previous illicit drug shipments. He also reportedly discarded his telephone SIM card after learning that the latest consignment had been intercepted. Investigators discovered that the suspect had previously been arrested at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in 2011 after allegedly ingesting 900 grammes of cocaine and 130 grammes of heroin while attempting to travel to Austria. He was prosecuted, convicted and sentenced to five years in prison. The agency said he subsequently changed his name from Dunu Chukwuyenre Enoch to Dunu Bethel Ebubechukwu before allegedly returning to drug trafficking. A search of his residence at Yemishola Street, Ejigbo, Lagos, also led to the recovery of phone chargers similar to those used to conceal the intercepted cocaine. Their internal components had reportedly been removed to create compartments for drugs. The arrest was part of a wider NDLEA crackdown across nine states in which the agency said it recovered more than two million opioid pills, tonnes of cannabis, methamphetamine and other controlled substances. At the Lagos airport, NDLEA operatives recovered 966,200 tablets of Tramadol 225mg valued at more than N1.1 billion. The drugs were concealed among thrift trousers in a 21-carton consignment imported from Pakistan. In another operation at the airport, 57.8kg of Loud, a potent synthetic strain of cannabis valued at more than N173 million, was recovered from cartons of disposable hand gloves in a shipment from Singapore. The consignment had remained unclaimed for weeks before a joint examination involving the NDLEA, Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies on September 3. In Ondo State, officers intercepted a 20,000-litre fuel tanker, marked MKA 960 XC, along the Akoko-Lokoja Expressway on September 4 after the driver allegedly refused to stop. The driver later abandoned the tanker at a church premises in Ugbe Akoko and fled into the bush. A search of the vehicle uncovered a concealed compartment containing 165 bags of cannabis weighing 2,145kg, alongside the legitimate fuel cargo reportedly destined for Jos, Plateau State. At the Lagos Port, the NDLEA also intercepted 598.08kg, comprising 890 packets, of cannabis-infused cookies and gummies in a 40-foot container on September 2. The agency linked the consignment to three suspects—Yashim Dauji, Larry Ifeanyi and Joseph Moji—who were previously arrested following the seizure of 842.54kg of cannabis-laced cookies at Tin Can Island Port. In Adamawa State, 864,000 opioid pills, particularly tramadol, were recovered from a residence linked to a fleeing suspect, Patrick KC Frank, in the Damilu-Jambutu axis of Jimeta, Yola North Local Government Area. Frank allegedly rammed his Honda Civic into an NDLEA patrol vehicle before escaping. Another suspect, 35-year-old Calistus Ebubechukwu, described by the agency as a major methamphetamine supplier operating between Lagos, Mubi and Michika, was arrested in Michika with 2kg of methamphetamine. The NDLEA also intercepted Attahiru Hussaini at Namtari checkpoint in Mubi on August 31. He was allegedly transporting tramadol and other opioids concealed in a soap-laden Ford Galaxy bus marked JJM-953XD. In Lagos, officers recovered 2,386.9kg of cannabis, 350 grammes of cocaine, more than 100kg of various grades of tramadol, 9.7 litres of codeine syrup and 4kg of Rohypnol in the Gbaji area. Two suspects, Damilare Francis and Emeh Emmanuel, were also arrested at Agbara with 720kg of cannabis. Meanwhile, three suspects—Saidu Mustapha, 35; Zaharadeen Salisu, 29; and AbdulSalam Abdullahi, 25—were arrested in Kogi State with 636kg of cannabis allegedly concealed in chicken manure aboard a bus travelling from Owo in Ondo State to Jos, Plateau State. In Taraba State, 58-year-old Kelechi Unachukwu was arrested along the Zaki-Biam Road in Wukari Local Government Area with more than 109kg of controlled substances, including tramadol, diazepam, pentazocine, phenobarbital, Exol-5, nitrazepam, bromazepam and pregabalin. The drugs were allegedly being conveyed in his Toyota Corolla from Onitsha, Anambra State, to Yola, Adamawa State. In Kaduna, NDLEA operatives intercepted a truck carrying bags of cement along the Zaria-Kano Expressway and recovered 1,179kg of skunk. In Bauchi, a 25-year-old suspect, Hamza Dahiru, was arrested in a follow-up operation after the seizure of 322.5kg of cannabis in Deba town, Gombe State, on September 1. In Ekiti State, two suspects, Chuks Alex, 50, and Asafa Adekunle, 35, were arrested after NDLEA officers discovered and destroyed a four-hectare cannabis farm in Efon-Alaaye forest. The operation also led to the recovery of 117kg of already harvested cannabis. In Enugu State, a 20-year-old man, Obinna David, was arrested at Ugbema Junction on September 5 with 40,590 capsules of tramadol. Beyond the arrests and seizures, the NDLEA said its commands across the country continued with drug-abuse awareness campaigns under its War Against Drug Abuse programme. The sensitisation activities targeted schools, worship centres, workplaces and communities. The agency said its recent activities included an enlightenment lecture for nursing mothers and nurses at Ibereko Primary Health Centre in Abeokuta North, Ogun State, as well as engagements with youths in Umouji/Okwo community in Olokoro, Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State, and staff and concessionaires at the Saipem-Daewoo, NLNG terminal in Bonny, Rivers State. NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), commended officers involved in the operations and urged them to sustain what he described as a balanced approach to drug control. Marwa said traffickers who attempt to evade law enforcement by adopting new identities or operating behind legitimate businesses would continue to be tracked down.

According to the NDLEA, Ebubechukwu admitted during interrogation that he had masterminded previous illicit drug shipments. He also reportedly discarded his telephone SIM card after learning that the latest consignment had been intercepted.

NDLEA arrests convicted cocaine trafficker disguised as herbal tea merchant

Senior minister and former Singapore prime minister Lee Hsien Loong on Sunday slammed the racist and hateful remarks targeting Singapore’s Indian community after the Nepal flood tragedy as “deeply troubling” and urged Singaporeans to reject hatred and stand together during difficult times.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lee’s remarks come amid an online debate in Singapore over racist and xenophobic content targeting Indians.Earlier, Singaporean authorities had ordered social media platforms to restrict access to 14 posts that allegedly portrayed Indians as “taking over” the country and fuelling anti-Indian sentiment.&nbsp;Lee said the response to a tragedy should be one of “compassion and solidarity”, and not of racial hatred. He emphasised that Singaporeans should support one another regardless of race, language or religion.&nbsp;<h2>‘Race and religion will always be a fault line in society’</h2>&nbsp;In a Facebook post on Sunday, Lee said Singapore would remain vulnerable to attempts to exploit racial and religious differences.“Human beings are not race-blind, and race and religion will always be a fault line in society,” he said, while noting that Singapore had made sustained efforts to build interracial tolerance and respect.“When incidents like this happen, leaders must speak up with force and conviction,” he said, calling for the condemnation of attempts to manipulate racial emotions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-may-drag-on-for-another-6-months-ex-us-defence-secretary-leon-panetta-1788699706418">Iran War may drag on for another 6 months: Ex-US defence secretary Leon Panetta</a>&nbsp;Lee also recalled previous instances when Singapore’s leaders had spoken out against attempts to inflame racial or religious tensions. He cited his 2021 National Day Rally remarks on anti-Indian sentiment during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s intervention during the 2025 general election over attempts to use religion to influence Muslim voters.Lee said such incidents underline the importance of Singapore’s National Pledge and the need for citizens to uphold its ideals of unity and harmony.&nbsp;<h2>Police investigating racist and xenophobic comments</h2>&nbsp;Lee also referred to remarks made by Senior Minister K. Shanmugam on Saturday, when the latter said that police were investigating racist and xenophobic comments linked to the Nepal floods and Singapore Airlines’ investment in Air India.&nbsp;Shanmugam described some of the online comments as “shameful, nasty and totally unacceptable”. Some posts reportedly used racist stereotypes involving snakes, curry, and black magic.Authorities need to call out such behaviour before it becomes normalised and damages public discourse and social harmony, Shanmugam added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-wants-war-again-russian-fm-accuses-berlin-after-drone-incident-1788704526585">‘Germany wants war again’: Russian FM accuses Berlin after drone incident</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Ministry of Digital Development and Information is expected to ask social media platforms to remove comments that breach Singapore’s guidelines.&nbsp;<h2>Comments on Singaporeans missing after Nepal floods trigger row</h2>&nbsp;The latest controversy follows calls from Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth, Dinesh Vasu Dash and Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC MP, Alex Yam, for compassion towards Singaporeans missing after the Nepal-Tibet disaster.Both had criticised comments questioning whether the nine Singaporeans reported missing after the Aug 26 disaster were “really Singaporean”.&nbsp;Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was in contact with the affected families, while the Singapore High Commission in New Delhi sent a crisis response team to Nepal to provide consular assistance.&nbsp;“These people should be unmasked and dealt with, rather than be allowed to hide behind online anonymity,” Senior Minister K Shanmugam said on Saturday.&nbsp;“Singaporeans are generous, across all races. And it is important that we don’t allow a minority to poison the entire well,” Shanmugan added.

Singaporean authorities ordered social media platforms to restrict access to 14 posts that allegedly portrayed Indians as “taking over” the country. Ministry of Digital Development and Information is expected to ask social media platforms to remove comments that breach Singapore’s guidelines.

Senior minister and former Singapore prime minister Lee Hsien Loong on Sunday slammed the racist and hateful remarks targeting Singapore’s Indian community after the Nepal flood tragedy as “deeply troubling” and urged Singaporeans to reject hatred and stand together during difficult times. Lee’s remarks come amid an online debate in Singapore over racist and xenophobic content targeting Indians. Earlier, Singaporean authorities had ordered social media platforms to restrict access to 14 posts that allegedly portrayed Indians as “taking over” the country and fuelling anti-Indian sentiment. Lee said the response to a tragedy should be one of “compassion and solidarity”, and not of racial hatred. He emphasised that Singaporeans should support one another regardless of race, language or religion. ‘Race and religion will always be a fault line in society’ In a Facebook post on Sunday, Lee said Singapore would remain vulnerable to attempts to exploit racial and religious differences. “Human beings are not race-blind, and race and religion will always be a fault line in society,” he said, while noting that Singapore had made sustained efforts to build interracial tolerance and respect. “When incidents like this happen, leaders must speak up with force and conviction,” he said, calling for the condemnation of attempts to manipulate racial emotions. Also Read: Iran War may drag on for another 6 months: Ex-US defence secretary Leon Panetta Lee also recalled previous instances when Singapore’s leaders had spoken out against attempts to inflame racial or religious tensions. He cited his 2021 National Day Rally remarks on anti-Indian sentiment during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s intervention during the 2025 general election over attempts to use religion to influence Muslim voters. Lee said such incidents underline the importance of Singapore’s National Pledge and the need for citizens to uphold its ideals of unity and harmony. Police investigating racist and xenophobic comments Lee also referred to remarks made by Senior Minister K. Shanmugam on Saturday, when the latter said that police were investigating racist and xenophobic comments linked to the Nepal floods and Singapore Airlines’ investment in Air India. Shanmugam described some of the online comments as “shameful, nasty and totally unacceptable”. Some posts reportedly used racist stereotypes involving snakes, curry, and black magic. Authorities need to call out such behaviour before it becomes normalised and damages public discourse and social harmony, Shanmugam added. Also Read: ‘Germany wants war again’: Russian FM accuses Berlin after drone incident Meanwhile, the Ministry of Digital Development and Information is expected to ask social media platforms to remove comments that breach Singapore’s guidelines. Comments on Singaporeans missing after Nepal floods trigger row The latest controversy follows calls from Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth, Dinesh Vasu Dash and Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC MP, Alex Yam, for compassion towards Singaporeans missing after the Nepal-Tibet disaster. Both had criticised comments questioning whether the nine Singaporeans reported missing after the Aug 26 disaster were “really Singaporean”. Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was in contact with the affected families, while the Singapore High Commission in New Delhi sent a crisis response team to Nepal to provide consular assistance. “These people should be unmasked and dealt with, rather than be allowed to hide behind online anonymity,” Senior Minister K Shanmugam said on Saturday. “Singaporeans are generous, across all races. And it is important that we don’t allow a minority to poison the entire well,” Shanmugan added.

Singaporean authorities ordered social media platforms to restrict access to 14 posts that allegedly portrayed Indians as “taking over” the country. Ministry of Digital Development and Information is expected to ask social media platforms to remove comments that breach Singapore’s guidelines.

Singapore probes ‘shameful, nasty’ anti-India racist remarks after Nepal floods

An Egyptian Court sentenced prominent TV presenter Sarah Khalifa along with 11 others to capital punishment on September 5 for their alleged involvement in a high-profile synthetic drug manufacturing and trafficking network. The Cairo Criminal Court also sentenced nine co-defendants and acquitted seven others in the related case.&nbsp;Egyptian state-run Al-Ahram and Akhbar Al-Youm referred to the proceedings as a “major drug case”. They were accused of forming an organised criminal group that imported materials used to manufacture narcotics before producing and distributing the drugs in Egypt. Anti-narcotics authorities seized over 750 kilograms of synthetic drugs and raw materials. They also uncovered two residential apartments used as laboratories for manufacturing drugs, unlicensed firearms and ammunition.According to prosecutors, members divided roles between procurement, manufacturing and distribution. The 39-year-old presenter has allegedly financed the operation and travelled around the world to coordinate activities with two of the network's leaders. The prosecution's case included statements from 20 witnesses as well as technical and digital evidence, including messages, photographs and videos.The verdict was conveyed after consultation with the Grand Mufti, with his non-binding religious opinion. The verdict is not final and can be appealed for a retrial before the Court of Cassation. Egypt enforces the death penalty for high-volume drug trafficking, premeditated murder, and terrorism.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gujarat-parties-1700-crore-15-candidates-1788694906290">Six unrecognised Gujarat parties earned ₹1,700 crore, fielded just 15 candidates</a><h2>Who is Sarah Khalifa?</h2>Khalifa is a prominent TV presenter in Egypt known for her show “Mission Impossible”. She hosted the security and crime television programme broadcast on Al-Mehwar TV. She also has a large digital media following, with over 2.5 million followers on Instagram. She also owns a cosmetic surgery clinic and a production company that organises parties and events. She was previously married to prominent Egyptian football player Mahmoud Abdel-Moneim, widely known by his nickname "Kahraba". But the pair parted ways in 2016 after a few months of their marriage.&nbsp;Throughout the proceedings, Khalifa strongly maintained her innocence, breaking down in court, requesting mercy from the court and claiming that she had never smoked a cigarette in her life. “Please listen to me, sir. My parents raised me well; they are people who pray, and I don’t need drug money.”She was also handed an additional prison sentence of three years by the same court over a separate incident involving the kidnapping, assault, and filming of her driver.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Egyptian TV presenter Sarah Khalifa and 11 others were sentenced to death over an alleged synthetic drug manufacturing and trafficking network.

An Egyptian Court sentenced prominent TV presenter Sarah Khalifa along with 11 others to capital punishment on September 5 for their alleged involvement in a high-profile synthetic drug manufacturing and trafficking network. The Cairo Criminal Court also sentenced nine co-defendants and acquitted seven others in the related case. Egyptian state-run Al-Ahram and Akhbar Al-Youm referred to the proceedings as a “major drug case”. They were accused of forming an organised criminal group that imported materials used to manufacture narcotics before producing and distributing the drugs in Egypt. Anti-narcotics authorities seized over 750 kilograms of synthetic drugs and raw materials. They also uncovered two residential apartments used as laboratories for manufacturing drugs, unlicensed firearms and ammunition. According to prosecutors, members divided roles between procurement, manufacturing and distribution. The 39-year-old presenter has allegedly financed the operation and travelled around the world to coordinate activities with two of the network's leaders. The prosecution's case included statements from 20 witnesses as well as technical and digital evidence, including messages, photographs and videos. The verdict was conveyed after consultation with the Grand Mufti, with his non-binding religious opinion. The verdict is not final and can be appealed for a retrial before the Court of Cassation. Egypt enforces the death penalty for high-volume drug trafficking, premeditated murder, and terrorism. Also Read: Six unrecognised Gujarat parties earned ₹1,700 crore, fielded just 15 candidates Who is Sarah Khalifa? Khalifa is a prominent TV presenter in Egypt known for her show “Mission Impossible”. She hosted the security and crime television programme broadcast on Al-Mehwar TV. She also has a large digital media following, with over 2.5 million followers on Instagram. She also owns a cosmetic surgery clinic and a production company that organises parties and events. She was previously married to prominent Egyptian football player Mahmoud Abdel-Moneim, widely known by his nickname "Kahraba". But the pair parted ways in 2016 after a few months of their marriage. Throughout the proceedings, Khalifa strongly maintained her innocence, breaking down in court, requesting mercy from the court and claiming that she had never smoked a cigarette in her life. “Please listen to me, sir. My parents raised me well; they are people who pray, and I don’t need drug money.” She was also handed an additional prison sentence of three years by the same court over a separate incident involving the kidnapping, assault, and filming of her driver.

Egyptian TV presenter Sarah Khalifa and 11 others were sentenced to death over an alleged synthetic drug manufacturing and trafficking network.

Egyptian TV presenter Sarah Khalifa sentenced to death in major drug case

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Germany of wanting to start a war after Berlin expelled the consulate general from Bonn and closed the Russian cultural centre. This comes after the German government on Tuesday (Sep 1) blamed Moscow for a drone attack on Leipzig airport last month. The explosive-laden drone was discovered in the secure cargo operations area at the strategic airport, near a Ukrainian cargo plane.In an interview published on Sunday (Sep 6), Lavrov said, “This is, by and large, the start of a real war. They expelled the consulate general from Bonn. They’re closing the Russian House (cultural centre) in Berlin. I remember that before the start of the Second World War... They want war again.”Lavrov also accused Germany of Nazism, adding that “the Russian leadership will draw the appropriate conclusions.”<h2>Germany blames Russia over drone incident</h2>On Tuesday (Sep 1), the German government said that Russia sent “low-level agents” for an attempted “hybrid attack” involving an explosive-laden drone at the strategic airport in eastern Germany.In response, Germany shut down the Russian consulate in Bonn and ended the contract for the Russian House, a cultural centre in Berlin.After examining the drone technology used and other intelligence, Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said that “the government concludes that Russia is responsible for the hybrid attack in Leipzig on August 4.”“The drone configuration – various components, explosives and ignition systems – are known to us from other hybrid operations by Russia and its war against Ukraine,” he added.“We do not view the Leipzig incident in isolation, but rather see it in the context of other hybrid actions,” he said. “We assume that Germany is the target of further hybrid attacks by Russia.”“We are not at war, but we are a daily target of hybrid warfare,” Dobrindt said.<h2>EU summons Russian envoys</h2>On Wednesday (Sep 2), the EU nations summoned Russia’s envoys and discussed fresh sanctions over the incident.“It is clear that it has all the hallmarks of state-sponsored terrorism,” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said. “The question is, what do we do about this?”

Lavrov accused Germany of preparing for war after Berlin blamed Russia for a drone attack on Leipzig airport and closed Russian diplomatic and cultural facilities. The EU has also discussed sanctions over the incident.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Germany of wanting to start a war after Berlin expelled the consulate general from Bonn and closed the Russian cultural centre. This comes after the German government on Tuesday (Sep 1) blamed Moscow for a drone attack on Leipzig airport last month. The explosive-laden drone was discovered in the secure cargo operations area at the strategic airport, near a Ukrainian cargo plane. In an interview published on Sunday (Sep 6), Lavrov said, “This is, by and large, the start of a real war. They expelled the consulate general from Bonn. They’re closing the Russian House (cultural centre) in Berlin. I remember that before the start of the Second World War... They want war again.” Lavrov also accused Germany of Nazism, adding that “the Russian leadership will draw the appropriate conclusions.” Germany blames Russia over drone incident On Tuesday (Sep 1), the German government said that Russia sent “low-level agents” for an attempted “hybrid attack” involving an explosive-laden drone at the strategic airport in eastern Germany. In response, Germany shut down the Russian consulate in Bonn and ended the contract for the Russian House, a cultural centre in Berlin. After examining the drone technology used and other intelligence, Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said that “the government concludes that Russia is responsible for the hybrid attack in Leipzig on August 4.” “The drone configuration – various components, explosives and ignition systems – are known to us from other hybrid operations by Russia and its war against Ukraine,” he added. “We do not view the Leipzig incident in isolation, but rather see it in the context of other hybrid actions,” he said. “We assume that Germany is the target of further hybrid attacks by Russia.” “We are not at war, but we are a daily target of hybrid warfare,” Dobrindt said. EU summons Russian envoys On Wednesday (Sep 2), the EU nations summoned Russia’s envoys and discussed fresh sanctions over the incident. “It is clear that it has all the hallmarks of state-sponsored terrorism,” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said. “The question is, what do we do about this?”

Lavrov accused Germany of preparing for war after Berlin blamed Russia for a drone attack on Leipzig airport and closed Russian diplomatic and cultural facilities. The EU has also discussed sanctions over the incident.

‘Germany wants war again’: Russian FM accuses Berlin after drone incident

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‘Germany wants war again’: Russian FM accuses Berlin after drone incident