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Amid rising tensions with Iran, United States has deployed F-22 stealth jets, considered its most advanced fighter planes, to Israel, reported The New Yor Times. The deployment of F-22 Raptor is another step in US President Donald Trump's move in expanding its Military presence in the Middle East. Flight tracking data and videos by plane spotters showed the fighter jets taking off from their the Lakenheath airbase in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;The &nbsp;fifth-generation aircraft landed at an Israeli air force airbase in south Israel on Tuesday, according to various US media outlets. They also reported about the jets flying with their transponders deactivated. However, they were accompanied by refueling tankers that kept their transponders on.&nbsp;The jets that included F-35s, F-22s, F-15s and F-16s arrived just two days before Thursday's nuclear negotiations between the two sides. The US Air Force has described the fighter as ones that "cannot be matched by any known or projected fighter aircraft".&nbsp;The US buildup in the Middle East now includes two aircraft carrier strike groups and over 60 fighter jets, positioned at a Jordan base.<h2>Khamenei's warning to US</h2>&nbsp;Earlier this month, Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a stark warning to the United States said any misadventure by Washington would lead to a “regional war” in the Mideast."America should know that if it starts a war, this time it will be a regional war," said Khamenei to the local media.&nbsp;"We are not the ones who start a war and we do not want to attack any country, but if America attacks or harms Iran the Iranian nation will deliver a strong blow and any war started by America will spread across the region," he added. &nbsp;

The fifth-generation F-22 stealth jets landed at an Israeli air force airbase in south Israel on Tuesday, according to various US media outlets.

Amid rising tensions with Iran, United States has deployed F-22 stealth jets, considered its most advanced fighter planes, to Israel, reported The New Yor Times. The deployment of F-22 Raptor is another step in US President Donald Trump's move in expanding its Military presence in the Middle East. Flight tracking data and videos by plane spotters showed the fighter jets taking off from their the Lakenheath airbase in the United Kingdom. The fifth-generation aircraft landed at an Israeli air force airbase in south Israel on Tuesday, according to various US media outlets. They also reported about the jets flying with their transponders deactivated. However, they were accompanied by refueling tankers that kept their transponders on. The jets that included F-35s, F-22s, F-15s and F-16s arrived just two days before Thursday's nuclear negotiations between the two sides. The US Air Force has described the fighter as ones that "cannot be matched by any known or projected fighter aircraft". The US buildup in the Middle East now includes two aircraft carrier strike groups and over 60 fighter jets, positioned at a Jordan base. Khamenei's warning to US Earlier this month, Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a stark warning to the United States said any misadventure by Washington would lead to a “regional war” in the Mideast. "America should know that if it starts a war, this time it will be a regional war," said Khamenei to the local media. "We are not the ones who start a war and we do not want to attack any country, but if America attacks or harms Iran the Iranian nation will deliver a strong blow and any war started by America will spread across the region," he added.

The fifth-generation F-22 stealth jets landed at an Israeli air force airbase in south Israel on Tuesday, according to various US media outlets.

US deploys a dozen F-22 stealth jets to Israel, expanding its military presence in Middle East amid tension with Iran

At least one American citizen was shot dead, and another was injured by Cuban authorities, who intercepted a Florida-registered speedboat after an exchange of gunfire near Cuban territorial waters, according to media reports citing US officials. Meanwhile, a third person on the boat was on a US K-1 visa, which is issued for fiancées of American citizens. Cuba has accused the 10 people on the boat of “an infiltration with terrorist aims”, adding they opened fire first.According to Cuba’s Interior Ministry, four people were killed while six were injured and arrested on the boat that came from Florida. CBS reported that White House has confirmed that one of the people who died was an American citizen. Others are believed to be legal permanent residents of the US, although it is not clear how many. The development was first reported by Axios.Earlier, Cuba had said that those aboard the boat were Cuban nationals living in the US. The boat’s owner has claimed that it was stolen by an employee, CBS reported, citing a US official and an incident report from the Monroe County Sheriff's Office in Florida.<h2>Who were aboard the boat?</h2>Cuban authorities have identified four killed in the incident as Pavel Alling Peña, Michael Ortega Casanova, Ledián Padrón Guevara and Hector Duani Cruz Correa. The others have been named as Cristian Ernesto Acosta Guevara, Conrado Galindo Sariol, José Manuel Rodríguez Castelló, Leordan Enrique Cruz Gómez, Amijail Sánchez González and Roberto Álvarez Ávila.On Thursday (Feb 16), the Cuban Embassy in the US said that Sánchez González and Cruz Gómez were wanted by Cuba and were included in lists provided to the US in 2023 and 2025 of people “that have been subject to criminal investigations and are wanted by the Cuban authorities for their involvement in acts of terrorism.” It added that they “enjoyed impunity within US territory.”The embassy added that the US government has shown their willingness to cooperate in clarifying the facts. The US has not yet provided information related to the identity of the occupants of the boat.<h2>‘Highly unusual’ incident</h2>Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday (Feb 25) said that the US Department of Homeland Security, the Coast Guard and other agencies were investigating the “highly unusual” incident. He added that the US government did not have any information beyond what Cuban authorities had said.“We’re gonna find out exactly what happened here and we’ll respond accordingly,” Rubio said.The incident comes amid tensions between Cuba and the US after US President Donald Trump imposed new sanctions and tariffs on Havana. Trump has also threatened the South American nation over drug smuggling after an operation involving the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.

At least one American was killed and another was injured, after Cuba intercepted a Florida-registered speedboat near its waters. Havana has called it a “terrorist” infiltration and claimed they fired first.

At least one American citizen was shot dead, and another was injured by Cuban authorities, who intercepted a Florida-registered speedboat after an exchange of gunfire near Cuban territorial waters, according to media reports citing US officials. Meanwhile, a third person on the boat was on a US K-1 visa, which is issued for fiancées of American citizens. Cuba has accused the 10 people on the boat of “an infiltration with terrorist aims”, adding they opened fire first. According to Cuba’s Interior Ministry, four people were killed while six were injured and arrested on the boat that came from Florida. CBS reported that White House has confirmed that one of the people who died was an American citizen. Others are believed to be legal permanent residents of the US, although it is not clear how many. The development was first reported by Axios. Earlier, Cuba had said that those aboard the boat were Cuban nationals living in the US. The boat’s owner has claimed that it was stolen by an employee, CBS reported, citing a US official and an incident report from the Monroe County Sheriff's Office in Florida. Who were aboard the boat? Cuban authorities have identified four killed in the incident as Pavel Alling Peña, Michael Ortega Casanova, Ledián Padrón Guevara and Hector Duani Cruz Correa. The others have been named as Cristian Ernesto Acosta Guevara, Conrado Galindo Sariol, José Manuel Rodríguez Castelló, Leordan Enrique Cruz Gómez, Amijail Sánchez González and Roberto Álvarez Ávila. On Thursday (Feb 16), the Cuban Embassy in the US said that Sánchez González and Cruz Gómez were wanted by Cuba and were included in lists provided to the US in 2023 and 2025 of people “that have been subject to criminal investigations and are wanted by the Cuban authorities for their involvement in acts of terrorism.” It added that they “enjoyed impunity within US territory.” The embassy added that the US government has shown their willingness to cooperate in clarifying the facts. The US has not yet provided information related to the identity of the occupants of the boat. ‘Highly unusual’ incident Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday (Feb 25) said that the US Department of Homeland Security, the Coast Guard and other agencies were investigating the “highly unusual” incident. He added that the US government did not have any information beyond what Cuban authorities had said. “We’re gonna find out exactly what happened here and we’ll respond accordingly,” Rubio said. The incident comes amid tensions between Cuba and the US after US President Donald Trump imposed new sanctions and tariffs on Havana. Trump has also threatened the South American nation over drug smuggling after an operation involving the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.

At least one American was killed and another was injured, after Cuba intercepted a Florida-registered speedboat near its waters. Havana has called it a “terrorist” infiltration and claimed they fired first.

US citizens in Cuba boat shooting? White House reveals SHOCKING details

Iran said that the latest round of talks with the United States in Geneva on Thursday (Feb 26) were the “most intense so far”. However, the negotiations failed to reach any breakthrough despite making “significant progress”. Oman has said that both sides have planned to engage in a more “detailed” manner with the next round of talks expected next week in Vienna. The development comes amid US President Donald Trump’s threats of a possible strike if diplomacy fails.“Further progress has been made in our diplomatic engagement with the United States. This round of talks was the most intense so far,” Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a statement on X posted overnight after talks on Thursday.&nbsp;Oman’s foreign minister Badr Al Busaidi, who is mediating the talks, said that the two sides made “significant progress” in the high-stakes talks and agreed to meet next week in Vienna to discuss technical details.Al-Busaidi is set to meet Vice President JD Vance and other US officials in Washington on Friday (Feb 27). Earlier, Vance downplayed the possibility of the US entering a prolonged war with Iran despite tensions between the two nations.Earlier this week, Trump suggested that Iran wants to make a deal more than the US, but Tehran’s refusal to commit to not developing nuclear weapons has resulted in soaring tensions.“They [Iran] want to make a deal, but we haven’t heard those secret words: We will never have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said in his State of the Union address on Tuesday (Feb 24).“My preference is to solve this problem through diplomacy, but one thing is certain, I will never allow the world’s number one sponsor of terror — which they are by far — to have a nuclear weapon. Can’t let that happen,” he added.Trump made the remarks just hours after Araghchi posted on X, “Iran will under no circumstances develop a nuclear weapon.”

Iran-US talks in Geneva were the “most intense” yet, with “significant progress” but no breakthrough. Oman said both sides will meet next week in Vienna.

Iran said that the latest round of talks with the United States in Geneva on Thursday (Feb 26) were the “most intense so far”. However, the negotiations failed to reach any breakthrough despite making “significant progress”. Oman has said that both sides have planned to engage in a more “detailed” manner with the next round of talks expected next week in Vienna. The development comes amid US President Donald Trump’s threats of a possible strike if diplomacy fails. “Further progress has been made in our diplomatic engagement with the United States. This round of talks was the most intense so far,” Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a statement on X posted overnight after talks on Thursday. Oman’s foreign minister Badr Al Busaidi, who is mediating the talks, said that the two sides made “significant progress” in the high-stakes talks and agreed to meet next week in Vienna to discuss technical details. Al-Busaidi is set to meet Vice President JD Vance and other US officials in Washington on Friday (Feb 27). Earlier, Vance downplayed the possibility of the US entering a prolonged war with Iran despite tensions between the two nations. Earlier this week, Trump suggested that Iran wants to make a deal more than the US, but Tehran’s refusal to commit to not developing nuclear weapons has resulted in soaring tensions. “They [Iran] want to make a deal, but we haven’t heard those secret words: We will never have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said in his State of the Union address on Tuesday (Feb 24). “My preference is to solve this problem through diplomacy, but one thing is certain, I will never allow the world’s number one sponsor of terror — which they are by far — to have a nuclear weapon. Can’t let that happen,” he added. Trump made the remarks just hours after Araghchi posted on X, “Iran will under no circumstances develop a nuclear weapon.”

Iran-US talks in Geneva were the “most intense” yet, with “significant progress” but no breakthrough. Oman said both sides will meet next week in Vienna.

Iran calls talks with US ‘most intense so far’ yet no breakthrough in Geneva

Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of Task Force Scorpion, America's first Kamikaze drone unit, against Iran following the collapse of nuclear negotiations, Bloomberg reported. The experimental military drone unit is capable of self-detonation and is the latest addition to the military build-up in the Middle East. This comes as the latest round of talks between American and Iranian officials collapsed in Geneva over Tehran's nuclear program. The two sides failed to reach a consensus on ending uranium enrichment and dismantling Iran's nuclear facilities, the Wall Street Journal reported. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner have been leading the American delegation, trying to resolve tensions through diplomacy before things escalate militarily. US Central Command spokesman Tim Hawkins said, "We established the squadron last year to rapidly equip our warfighters with new combat drone capabilities that continue to evolve."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deal-with-us-possible-if-talks-stay-confined-to-non-production-of-nuclear-weapons-ali-khamenei-s-aide-1772124755682">Deal with US possible if talks stay confined to ‘non-production of nuclear weapons’: Ali Khamenei’s aide</a><h2>US Kamikaze drone unit in Iran&nbsp;</h2>The Kamikaze drone squad could prove deadly for Iranian targets, primarily its nuclear facilities. Each drone in the unit costs $35,000 and was successfully tested in the Arabian Gulf in December. America is likely to use the drones to dismantle its road network and missile launch facilities to weaken its defence. They have been built for reconnaissance operations and one-way attacks. The drones have "an extensive range and are designed to operate autonomously." Trump raised the matter in his State of the Union address, also saying that he wants to resolve things peacefully, but is ready for war if the Khamenei regime does not promise never to produce a nuclear bomb. Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi has been playing middleman between the two parties in the negotiations, while US and Iranian delegates are also said to be talking to each other directly, Axios reported.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-has-seen-evidence-vance-warns-iran-ahead-of-geneva-meet-rubio-flags-missile-problem-will-nuclear-talks-fail-1772078367975">'US has seen evidence...': Vance warns Iran ahead of Geneva meet, Rubio flags missile ‘problem’</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-tensions-nuclear-talks-end-without-deal-3rd-round-concludes-in-geneva-wion-1772161197354/embed<h2>US fighter jets near Iran</h2> The US president has already sent two warships - USS Abraham Lincoln and the USS Gerald R Ford - to the Arabian Sea, to build pressure on the Iranian regime. The USS Gerald R Ford is approaching the Strait of Gibraltar. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier is the flagship of the US Navy’s Carrier Strike Group Three. The aircraft assigned to the warship are from Carrier Air Wing Nine, which is made up of eight squadrons. At least 66 American fighter jets have also been deployed to the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. These include F-35s, along with F-15s and A-10s. The advanced F-22 Raptor fighter jets have also been sent to Israel and are on standby for deployment. &nbsp;

America's Kamikaze drone unit is ready to strike Iran, as the Pentagon ordered to move them in, a decision that could trigger an all-out war in the Middle East. The suicide drones will allow US forces to inflict initial damage and are a highly effective tool for precision destruction.

Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of Task Force Scorpion, America's first Kamikaze drone unit, against Iran following the collapse of nuclear negotiations, Bloomberg reported. The experimental military drone unit is capable of self-detonation and is the latest addition to the military build-up in the Middle East. This comes as the latest round of talks between American and Iranian officials collapsed in Geneva over Tehran's nuclear program. The two sides failed to reach a consensus on ending uranium enrichment and dismantling Iran's nuclear facilities, the Wall Street Journal reported. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner have been leading the American delegation, trying to resolve tensions through diplomacy before things escalate militarily. US Central Command spokesman Tim Hawkins said, "We established the squadron last year to rapidly equip our warfighters with new combat drone capabilities that continue to evolve." Also Read: Deal with US possible if talks stay confined to ‘non-production of nuclear weapons’: Ali Khamenei’s aide US Kamikaze drone unit in Iran The Kamikaze drone squad could prove deadly for Iranian targets, primarily its nuclear facilities. Each drone in the unit costs $35,000 and was successfully tested in the Arabian Gulf in December. America is likely to use the drones to dismantle its road network and missile launch facilities to weaken its defence. They have been built for reconnaissance operations and one-way attacks. The drones have "an extensive range and are designed to operate autonomously." Trump raised the matter in his State of the Union address, also saying that he wants to resolve things peacefully, but is ready for war if the Khamenei regime does not promise never to produce a nuclear bomb. Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi has been playing middleman between the two parties in the negotiations, while US and Iranian delegates are also said to be talking to each other directly, Axios reported. Also Read: 'US has seen evidence...': Vance warns Iran ahead of Geneva meet, Rubio flags missile ‘problem’ https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-tensions-nuclear-talks-end-without-deal-3rd-round-concludes-in-geneva-wion-1772161197354/embed US fighter jets near Iran The US president has already sent two warships - USS Abraham Lincoln and the USS Gerald R Ford - to the Arabian Sea, to build pressure on the Iranian regime. The USS Gerald R Ford is approaching the Strait of Gibraltar. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier is the flagship of the US Navy’s Carrier Strike Group Three. The aircraft assigned to the warship are from Carrier Air Wing Nine, which is made up of eight squadrons. At least 66 American fighter jets have also been deployed to the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. These include F-35s, along with F-15s and A-10s. The advanced F-22 Raptor fighter jets have also been sent to Israel and are on standby for deployment.

America's Kamikaze drone unit is ready to strike Iran, as the Pentagon ordered to move them in, a decision that could trigger an all-out war in the Middle East. The suicide drones will allow US forces to inflict initial damage and are a highly effective tool for precision destruction.

Task Force Scorpion activated: America's first Kamikaze drone unit prepares to strike Iran

Elon Musk, the eccentric billionaire known for his often outlandish X posts, has hit out at the New York Times over a decade-old article titled "Pedophilia: A Disorder, Not a Crime". This comes amidst significant public outrage over the Jeffrey Epstein case, with new revelations from the infamous Epstein Files emerging daily and shocking the world.<h2>What did Elon Musk say?</h2>Musk reshared a post showing the cover image of an over a decade-old NYT opinion article by Margo Kaplan. The original post calls out the article with its caption: "No, it’s a crime...This is delusional".Blasting the publication, Musk wrote, "The New York Times is utterly disgusting".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The New York Times is utterly disgusting <a href="https://t.co/0xAE4raE6z">https://t.co/0xAE4raE6z</a>&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/2026135632624652377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/revealed-at-least-6-epstein-secret-storage-units-missed-by-fbi-what-are-they-hiding-unseen-pics-of-young-victims-blackmail-material-powerful-men-1771892294014">REVEALED! At least 6 Epstein secret storage units missed by FBI. What are they hiding?</a><h2>What does the article say about paedophilia?</h2>The opinion piece by Margo Kaplan, a law professor at Rutgers University, suggests that paedophilia should be viewed through a mental health lens rather than a purely criminal behaviour."By some estimates, 1 per cent of the male population continues, long after puberty, to find themselves attracted to prepubescent children. These people are living with pedophilia, a sexual attraction to prepubescents that often constitutes a mental illness. Unfortunately, our laws are failing them and, consequently, ignoring opportunities to prevent child abuse," writes Kaplan.In her article, Kaplan contends that while the sexual abuse of children remains illegal, recognising the act as a disorder instead of a crime could help people seek help before they act on their impulses.She uses other mental health conditions, including substance abuse disorders, as examples. "Yet our laws ignore pedophilia until after the commission of a sexual offence, emphasising punishment, not prevention," she writes.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosive-epstein-files-accuse-trump-of-raping-13-year-old-murdering-a-new-born-white-house-says-this-about-allegations-1769823565436">Explosive Epstein files accuse Trump of raping 13-year-old, murdering a newborn; White House says THIS about allegations</a>Kaplan says that it is a "misconception" that "pedophilia is a choice". She contends that recent research, which she concedes is limited to sex offenders "because of the stigma of pedophilia" suggests that it "may have neurological origins"."Pedophilia could result from a failure in the brain to identify which environmental stimuli should provoke a sexual response." She insists that there are people who suffer from the "disorder" and have vowed to "never to touch a child and yet live in terror"."They must hide their disorder from everyone they know — or risk losing educational and job opportunities, and face the prospect of harassment and even violence. Many feel isolated; some contemplate suicide." However, she acknowledges that "There’s no question that the extension of civil rights protections to people with pedophilia must be weighed against the health and safety needs of others, especially kids. It stands to reason that a pedophile should not be hired as a grade-school teacher. "&nbsp;

Why is Elon Musk attacking The New York Times over a decade-old opinion piece? His sharp reaction comes amid renewed outrage tied to the Jeffrey Epstein revelations.

What exactly did he say, and what was the article about? Scroll down to read more.

Elon Musk, the eccentric billionaire known for his often outlandish X posts, has hit out at the New York Times over a decade-old article titled "Pedophilia: A Disorder, Not a Crime". This comes amidst significant public outrage over the Jeffrey Epstein case, with new revelations from the infamous Epstein Files emerging daily and shocking the world. What did Elon Musk say? Musk reshared a post showing the cover image of an over a decade-old NYT opinion article by Margo Kaplan. The original post calls out the article with its caption: "No, it’s a crime...This is delusional". Blasting the publication, Musk wrote, "The New York Times is utterly disgusting".

Why is Elon Musk attacking The New York Times over a decade-old opinion piece? His sharp reaction comes amid renewed outrage tied to the Jeffrey Epstein revelations.What exactly did he say, and what was the article about? Scroll down to read more.

'Utterly disgusting’: Elon Musk blasts New York Times over 'paedophilia not a crime' article

AI firm Anthropic on Thursday (Feb 26) said it will not allow the Pentagon unrestricted military use of its technology. The Pentagon had reportedly given Anthropic until Friday to comply, warning that failure to do so could trigger action under the Defense Production Act. This Cold War-era law allows the government to compel private companies to prioritise defence needs.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/death-is-only-the-beginning-meta-patents-technology-that-ll-let-ai-run-your-social-media-from-beyond-the-grave-wion-explains-1771304178081">Death is only the beginning? Meta patents tech that'll let AI run your social media from beyond the grave | WION Explains</a><h2>Cannot agree "in good conscience"</h2>In a statement, Anthropic's chief executive Dario Amodei said the company could not agree to Washington’s demand that its systems be made available without limits, even under national security pressure."These threats do not change our position," he said, adding that they "cannot in good conscience accede to their request".Anthropic acknowledged that its models are already being used by the Pentagon and intelligence agencies in defensive roles. But Amodei said there were clear limits. Mass surveillance of US citizens, he argued, was incompatible with democratic values. "Using these systems for mass domestic surveillance is incompatible with democratic values."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/claim-vs-fact-breaking-down-trump-s-state-of-the-union-2026-speech-full-fact-check-1772001873739">Claim vs fact: Breaking down Trump’s State of the Union 2026 speech - Full fact-check</a>He also cautioned against relying on AI to run fully autonomous weapons systems, saying current technology is not reliable enough to make life-and-death decisions without human oversight. "We will not knowingly provide a product that puts America's warfighters and civilians at risk."<h2>Pentagon tries to intimidate Anthropic</h2>Earlier this week, US officials warned Anthropic that either the company agrees to unrestricted military use of its technology by 5:01 pm (22:01 GMT) Friday or face being forced to comply under the Defense Production Act. Pentagon also threatened that a refusal could lead to Anthropic being labelled a supply chain risk, a designation that can damage a company’s ability to work with government agencies. &nbsp;

Anthropic has pushed back on US Pentagon pressure, saying it cannot “in good conscience” allow unrestricted military use of its technology. The move could trigger action under a Cold War-era law. 

What lines is the company refusing to cross? Scroll down to read more.

AI firm Anthropic on Thursday (Feb 26) said it will not allow the Pentagon unrestricted military use of its technology. The Pentagon had reportedly given Anthropic until Friday to comply, warning that failure to do so could trigger action under the Defense Production Act. This Cold War-era law allows the government to compel private companies to prioritise defence needs. Also read | Death is only the beginning? Meta patents tech that'll let AI run your social media from beyond the grave | WION Explains Cannot agree "in good conscience" In a statement, Anthropic's chief executive Dario Amodei said the company could not agree to Washington’s demand that its systems be made available without limits, even under national security pressure. "These threats do not change our position," he said, adding that they "cannot in good conscience accede to their request". Anthropic acknowledged that its models are already being used by the Pentagon and intelligence agencies in defensive roles. But Amodei said there were clear limits. Mass surveillance of US citizens, he argued, was incompatible with democratic values. "Using these systems for mass domestic surveillance is incompatible with democratic values." Also read | Claim vs fact: Breaking down Trump’s State of the Union 2026 speech - Full fact-check He also cautioned against relying on AI to run fully autonomous weapons systems, saying current technology is not reliable enough to make life-and-death decisions without human oversight. "We will not knowingly provide a product that puts America's warfighters and civilians at risk." Pentagon tries to intimidate Anthropic Earlier this week, US officials warned Anthropic that either the company agrees to unrestricted military use of its technology by 5:01 pm (22:01 GMT) Friday or face being forced to comply under the Defense Production Act. Pentagon also threatened that a refusal could lead to Anthropic being labelled a supply chain risk, a designation that can damage a company’s ability to work with government agencies.

Anthropic has pushed back on US Pentagon pressure, saying it cannot “in good conscience” allow unrestricted military use of its technology. The move could trigger action under a Cold War-era law.&nbsp;What lines is the company refusing to cross? Scroll down to read more.

Anthropic resists Pentagon pressure, says won't give Trump admin unconditional AI use for 'mass domestic surveillance'

Pakistan on Friday (Feb 27) declared "open war" against Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities. This comes after a sharp escalation in cross-border fighting. "Our patience has reached its limit," said Pakistan's defence minister Khawaja Asif in a post on X, as reports of blasts and gunfire emerged from Kabul and Kandahar.<h2>What did Khawaja Asif say?</h2>The Pakistani minister stated that after NATO forces withdrew, it was expected that there would be peace in Afghanistan and that the Taliban would prioritise the well-being of the Afghan people and regional stability. However, he claimed that instead, Afghanistan has become “a colony of India."&nbsp;Slamming the Taliban government for “depriving” its citizens of “basic human rights,” he noted that the government “snatched away the rights that Islam grants to women.”He added that while Islamabad “made every effort to keep the situation normal through direct means and through friendly countries,” but “attempts are being made to target Pakistan with aggression”.“Now it is open war between us and you,” he said, adding, "Now it will be ‘Dama Dam Mast Qalandar’.”<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260227/image-1772156665026.png"></figure><h2>Pakistan's 'befitting response'</h2>Earlier, Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the country's latest military action was a "befitting response" to what he called Afghan aggression. His remarks came hours after Taliban officials said their forces had attacked Pakistani troops along the frontier in retaliation for earlier air strikes. "Pakistan's armed forces have given a befitting response to the Afghan Taliban's open aggression," he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-launches-retaliatory-strikes-on-pakistan-says-taliban-military-1772124455978">Afghanistan launches retaliatory strikes on Pakistan, says Taliban military</a><h2>Tit-for-tat attacks along the frontier</h2>According to Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid X post, Afghan forces launched "wide-ranging retaliatory operations" against Pakistani troop positions "in the directions of Kandahar and Helmand as well.""In response to repeated violations by the Pakistani military, large-scale offensive operations were launched against Pakistani military bases and military installations," said the Taliban government spokesperson. Afghan officials claimed dozens of Pakistani soldiers were killed and several captured in the clashes, which they said were triggered by strikes that caused civilian casualties days earlier.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-blasts-new-york-times-as-utterly-disgusting-over-paedophilia-not-a-crime-article-jeffrey-epstein-files-1772095271310">Elon Musk blasts New York Times as ‘utterly disgusting’ over 'paedophilia not a crime' article</a>Pakistan's information ministry, meanwhile, said Afghan Taliban forces had "opened unprovoked fire on multiple locations" in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, prompting what it described as an "immediate and effective" counter-response. Islamabad had earlier vowed an "immediate" response after Afghan fighters reportedly attacked its forces on Thursday.&nbsp;<h2>Months of tensions boiling over</h2>The latest fighting follows months of mounting strain between the neighbours. Pakistani air strikes last week on Nangarhar and Paktika provinces reportedly killed at least 13 civilians, according to the UN mission in Afghanistan, though Islamabad said militants were targeted.Border crossings have largely remained shut since deadly clashes in October left more than 70 people dead on both sides. Efforts at mediation, including talks brokered by Qatar and Turkey, have so far failed to hold.Islamabad has repeatedly accused Kabul of failing to curb militant groups operating from Afghan soil, an allegation the Taliban denies.

Is Pakistan now in “open war” with the Taliban? After fresh cross border clashes, Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said patience had “reached its limit.” Blasts, retaliatory strikes and border seizures are being reported.

How did this escalate so fast? Scroll down to read

Pakistan on Friday (Feb 27) declared "open war" against Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities. This comes after a sharp escalation in cross-border fighting. "Our patience has reached its limit," said Pakistan's defence minister Khawaja Asif in a post on X, as reports of blasts and gunfire emerged from Kabul and Kandahar. What did Khawaja Asif say? The Pakistani minister stated that after NATO forces withdrew, it was expected that there would be peace in Afghanistan and that the Taliban would prioritise the well-being of the Afghan people and regional stability. However, he claimed that instead, Afghanistan has become “a colony of India." Slamming the Taliban government for “depriving” its citizens of “basic human rights,” he noted that the government “snatched away the rights that Islam grants to women.” He added that while Islamabad “made every effort to keep the situation normal through direct means and through friendly countries,” but “attempts are being made to target Pakistan with aggression”. “Now it is open war between us and you,” he said, adding, "Now it will be ‘Dama Dam Mast Qalandar’.” Pakistan's 'befitting response' Earlier, Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the country's latest military action was a "befitting response" to what he called Afghan aggression. His remarks came hours after Taliban officials said their forces had attacked Pakistani troops along the frontier in retaliation for earlier air strikes. "Pakistan's armed forces have given a befitting response to the Afghan Taliban's open aggression," he said. Also read | Afghanistan launches retaliatory strikes on Pakistan, says Taliban military Tit-for-tat attacks along the frontier According to Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid X post, Afghan forces launched "wide-ranging retaliatory operations" against Pakistani troop positions "in the directions of Kandahar and Helmand as well." "In response to repeated violations by the Pakistani military, large-scale offensive operations were launched against Pakistani military bases and military installations," said the Taliban government spokesperson. Afghan officials claimed dozens of Pakistani soldiers were killed and several captured in the clashes, which they said were triggered by strikes that caused civilian casualties days earlier. Also read | Elon Musk blasts New York Times as ‘utterly disgusting’ over 'paedophilia not a crime' article Pakistan's information ministry, meanwhile, said Afghan Taliban forces had "opened unprovoked fire on multiple locations" in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, prompting what it described as an "immediate and effective" counter-response. Islamabad had earlier vowed an "immediate" response after Afghan fighters reportedly attacked its forces on Thursday. Months of tensions boiling over The latest fighting follows months of mounting strain between the neighbours. Pakistani air strikes last week on Nangarhar and Paktika provinces reportedly killed at least 13 civilians, according to the UN mission in Afghanistan, though Islamabad said militants were targeted. Border crossings have largely remained shut since deadly clashes in October left more than 70 people dead on both sides. Efforts at mediation, including talks brokered by Qatar and Turkey, have so far failed to hold. Islamabad has repeatedly accused Kabul of failing to curb militant groups operating from Afghan soil, an allegation the Taliban denies.

Is Pakistan now in “open war” with the Taliban? After fresh cross-border clashes, Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said patience had “reached its limit.” Blasts, retaliatory strikes and border seizures are being reported.How did this escalate so fast? Scroll down to read

'Dama Dam Mast Qalandar': Pakistan declares 'open war' against Afghanistan, says 'patience has reached its limit'

Amid heightened tensions over a nuclear deal between the US and Iran, a satellite image obtained by the Chinese company Mizarvision showed 11 newly arrived US F-22 stealth fighter aircraft deployed at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel. The 5th-generation F-22 Raptor jets, which first appeared in imagery from Planet Labs on Wednesday, are the latest addition to the American military buildup in the Middle East amid the efforts by Donald Trump to secure a deal with Tehran.&nbsp;The F-22 Raptor is a fighter jet designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. The jet is America's first plane with “supercruise” abilities, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound for long periods without using the engine’s fuel-consuming afterburner.<h2>Trump to attack Iran soon?</h2>US President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 20) that he may be "considering" a limited strike on Iran. "I guess I can say I am considering that," he said when asked about such a military campaign. Amid this, major warships have been reported heading towards the Middle East. The nuclear-powered USS Abraham Lincoln was seen heading towards Iran. The warship has the capacity to carry more than 65 aircraft. It can carry around 5,700 crew members and has a length of 333 meters. Another nuclear-powered warship, USS Gerald Ford, was seen in the Atlantic Ocean and was heading towards the Middle East. It can carry 4,550 crew members and is 337 meters long. It can carry 75+ aircraft. Other than these two warships, USS Michael Murphy, USS Spruance and USS Franc E Petersen Jr were also reported heading towards Iran.<h2>Other missile destroyers</h2>USS Bainbridge, USS Mahan, and USS Winston S Churchil were also reported heading towards the Middle East amid the tensions. Two fighter jets: F35C Lightning II and FA/18 Super Hornet were reported to be on the warships. Other than these, EA-18G Growler (electronic warfare aircraft), E-2D Hawkeye (early warning aircraft), and MH-60 Seahawk (anti-submarine and anti-ship helicopter) were reported to be onboard. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Satellite imagery has revealed the deployment of 11 US F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jets at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel amid rising US-Iran nuclear tensions

Amid heightened tensions over a nuclear deal between the US and Iran, a satellite image obtained by the Chinese company Mizarvision showed 11 newly arrived US F-22 stealth fighter aircraft deployed at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel. The 5th-generation F-22 Raptor jets, which first appeared in imagery from Planet Labs on Wednesday, are the latest addition to the American military buildup in the Middle East amid the efforts by Donald Trump to secure a deal with Tehran. The F-22 Raptor is a fighter jet designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. The jet is America's first plane with “supercruise” abilities, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound for long periods without using the engine’s fuel-consuming afterburner. Trump to attack Iran soon? US President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 20) that he may be "considering" a limited strike on Iran. "I guess I can say I am considering that," he said when asked about such a military campaign. Amid this, major warships have been reported heading towards the Middle East. The nuclear-powered USS Abraham Lincoln was seen heading towards Iran. The warship has the capacity to carry more than 65 aircraft. It can carry around 5,700 crew members and has a length of 333 meters. Another nuclear-powered warship, USS Gerald Ford, was seen in the Atlantic Ocean and was heading towards the Middle East. It can carry 4,550 crew members and is 337 meters long. It can carry 75+ aircraft. Other than these two warships, USS Michael Murphy, USS Spruance and USS Franc E Petersen Jr were also reported heading towards Iran. Other missile destroyers USS Bainbridge, USS Mahan, and USS Winston S Churchil were also reported heading towards the Middle East amid the tensions. Two fighter jets: F35C Lightning II and FA/18 Super Hornet were reported to be on the warships. Other than these, EA-18G Growler (electronic warfare aircraft), E-2D Hawkeye (early warning aircraft), and MH-60 Seahawk (anti-submarine and anti-ship helicopter) were reported to be onboard.

Satellite imagery has revealed the deployment of 11 US F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jets at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel amid rising US-Iran nuclear tensions

US-Iran nuclear tensions: Satellite image reveals F-22 stealth fighter jets in Mideast. What is happening?

Amid a series of diplomatic talks in Geneva, including the US-Ukraine talks, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that an end to the war in Ukraine is not approaching any time soon. He was asked if there was a timeline for the end of the war. Lavrov responded on Thursday (Feb 26), saying, “Have you heard us say anything about timelines? We don’t have deadlines; we have objectives. And we are accomplishing them.”&nbsp;A day earlier, US President Donald Trump spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, shortly after the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, according to a person familiar with the conversation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/stephen-hawking-pictured-with-two-women-in-bikinis-during-event-organised-by-epstein-family-says-they-re-caregivers-1772109268579">Stephen Hawking pictured with two women in bikinis during event organised by Epstein, family says they’re ‘caregivers’</a>&nbsp;Peskov also said it was too early to make "forecasts" or say at what stage the peace process was at, telling state media "it would be a big mistake to try right now to define some kind of stage or make some kind of forecasts. I don't want to make those mistakes."&nbsp;Meanwhile, Kyiv has called for a leaders' meeting between Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy to break the deadlock. "Today in Geneva, we continue our work within the framework of the negotiation process. A bilateral meeting with the American delegation has begun, with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner," Ukraine's lead negotiator Rustem Umerov said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-corruption-in-judiciary-ncert-in-tight-spot-after-sc-begins-suo-moto-proceedings-over-class-8-textbook-here-s-why-1772051681182">'Corruption in judiciary'? NCERT in tight spot after SC begins suo moto proceedings over class 8 textbook. Here’s why</a>&nbsp;Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev was planning to be in Geneva on Thursday, although there was no indication that he planned to meet with the Ukrainian side, according to Russian state media. "Dmitriev plans to arrive in Geneva on Thursday to pursue negotiations with the Americans on economic issues," Russia's TASS news agency cited an unnamed source as saying.

Russia said there is no set timeline to end the Ukraine war, with Sergey Lavrov stressing Moscow has “objectives, not deadlines.” Meanwhile, US, Ukrainian and Russian officials continued diplomatic talks in Geneva.

Amid a series of diplomatic talks in Geneva, including the US-Ukraine talks, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that an end to the war in Ukraine is not approaching any time soon. He was asked if there was a timeline for the end of the war. Lavrov responded on Thursday (Feb 26), saying, “Have you heard us say anything about timelines? We don’t have deadlines; we have objectives. And we are accomplishing them.” A day earlier, US President Donald Trump spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, shortly after the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, according to a person familiar with the conversation. Also read: Stephen Hawking pictured with two women in bikinis during event organised by Epstein, family says they’re ‘caregivers’ Peskov also said it was too early to make "forecasts" or say at what stage the peace process was at, telling state media "it would be a big mistake to try right now to define some kind of stage or make some kind of forecasts. I don't want to make those mistakes." Meanwhile, Kyiv has called for a leaders' meeting between Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy to break the deadlock. "Today in Geneva, we continue our work within the framework of the negotiation process. A bilateral meeting with the American delegation has begun, with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner," Ukraine's lead negotiator Rustem Umerov said. Also read: 'Corruption in judiciary'? NCERT in tight spot after SC begins suo moto proceedings over class 8 textbook. Here’s why Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev was planning to be in Geneva on Thursday, although there was no indication that he planned to meet with the Ukrainian side, according to Russian state media. "Dmitriev plans to arrive in Geneva on Thursday to pursue negotiations with the Americans on economic issues," Russia's TASS news agency cited an unnamed source as saying.

Russia said there is no set timeline to end the Ukraine war, with Sergey Lavrov stressing Moscow has “objectives, not deadlines.” Meanwhile, US, Ukrainian and Russian officials continued diplomatic talks in Geneva.

‘We don’t have deadlines; we have objectives’: Russia on timeline for ending war in Ukraine

The Afghanistan government said on Thursday night that it had captured 15 Pakistani military outposts and killed several soldiers in a large-scale border offensive, describing the operation as retaliation for recent Pakistani air strikes on Afghan territory. Taliban government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said on X that Afghan forces had inflicted significant losses in attacks across the disputed Durand Line. “Several soldiers have been killed, and a number of them have been caught alive,” he wrote on X.&nbsp;He added that “the number of posts captured from the enemy has reached 15.”&nbsp;Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, said that around 40 members of Pakistan’s military regime forces have been killed in Kunar province as a result of operations carried out by the Islamic Emirate forces, reported TOLOnews.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-fruitful-discussions-to-expand-trade-ties-says-piyush-goyal-after-hosting-us-commerce-secretary-howard-lutnick-1772128131114">‘Fruitful discussions to expand trade ties’: US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick travels to India, meets Piyush Goyal</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: Afghanistan has announced large-scale operations against Pakistani military forces along the border. “In response to repeated border violations and aggressive actions by Pakistani forces, extensive offensive operations have begun against Pakistani military bases and… <a href="https://t.co/Kn2WLiSkJQ">pic.twitter.com/Kn2WLiSkJQ</a>&mdash; Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) <a href="https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/2027075737258262864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Afghanistan’s military corps in the east reported that “heavy clashes” began on Thursday night in retaliation for Pakistani air strikes earlier in the week.A military spokesman said Afghan forces in Nangarhar and Kunar provinces had launched “heavy attacks on Pakistani outposts”.Wahidullah Mohammadi, spokesman for the military in eastern Afghanistan, said, “So far, there are no casualties on the Afghan side.”Hamdullah Fitrat, the Taliban government’s deputy spokesman, confirmed that “15 outposts have been captured” by Afghan forces.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danish-pm-mette-frederiksen-calls-snap-election-amid-popularity-surge-for-resisting-trump-s-bid-to-acquire-greenland-1772120220927">Danish PM Mette Frederiksen calls snap election amid popularity surge for resisting Trump’s bid to acquire Greenland</a><h2>‘At least 22 personnel of the Afghan Taliban regime killed’</h2>&nbsp;Pakistan accused Afghanistan of initiating the confrontation and said Afghan forces had “opened unprovoked fire on multiple locations” across the border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.&nbsp;“Afghan Taliban miscalculated and opened unprovoked fire on multiple locations across Pakistan Afghanistan border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which is being met with immediate, and effective response by Pakistan’s security forces,” Pakistan’s information ministry said in a post on X.&nbsp;“The Taliban regime forces are being delivered punishment in Chitral, Khyber, Mohmand, Kurram and Bajaur sectors,” it added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-economic-forum-chief-borge-brende-quits-over-his-links-with-epstein-1772107692150">World Economic Forum chief Borge Brende quits over his links with Epstein</a>&nbsp;Security forces in Pakistan said at least 22 personnel of the Afghan Taliban regime were killed in retaliatory fire.The security forces launched operation Ghazab-lil-haqq after the Taliban regime’s unprovoked action along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, reported Geo News, citing sources.&nbsp;“Afghan Taliban’s attempts to attack Pakistani security forces’ check posts using quadcopters failed, and all quadcopters were shot down by Pakistani forces in swift and timely action,” security sources claimed.Pakistani security forces are responding with light and heavy weapons and Afghan Taliban positions were being targeted by drones, said the sources, adding, “False claims and fake videos were also being circulated on social media by the Taliban regime.”&nbsp;The latest escalation follows Pakistani military strikes along the border with Afghanistan on Sunday. Pakistan’s military said it had killed at least 70 militants in the strikes. Kabul rejected the claim and insisted that the air raids had instead killed dozens of civilians, including women and children.

The Islamic Emirate's spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, said that around 40 members of Pakistan’s military regime forces have been killed in Kunar province. He added that the number of posts captured from the enemy has reached 15.

The Afghanistan government said on Thursday night that it had captured 15 Pakistani military outposts and killed several soldiers in a large-scale border offensive, describing the operation as retaliation for recent Pakistani air strikes on Afghan territory. Taliban government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said on X that Afghan forces had inflicted significant losses in attacks across the disputed Durand Line. “Several soldiers have been killed, and a number of them have been caught alive,” he wrote on X. He added that “the number of posts captured from the enemy has reached 15.” Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, said that around 40 members of Pakistan’s military regime forces have been killed in Kunar province as a result of operations carried out by the Islamic Emirate forces, reported TOLOnews. Also Read: ‘Fruitful discussions to expand trade ties’: US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick travels to India, meets Piyush Goyal

The Islamic Emirate's spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, said that around 40 members of Pakistan’s military regime forces have been killed in Kunar province. He added that the number of posts captured from the enemy has reached 15.

‘15 outposts captured, 40 Pak soldiers killed,’ says Afghan; 22 Taliban personnel slain in retaliatory action, claims Islamabad

Hillary Clinton denied any connection to Jeffrey Epstein, saying she never met him or visited his properties, and urged the committee to question the current US president under oath if seeking truth.

'Never visited his island': Hillary Clinton denies any wrongdoing, says if committee wants truth on Epstein Files, 'ask Trump directly under oath'

As the third round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran concluded in Geneva on Thursday (Feb 26), the key adviser of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said that an “immediate agreement” between the United States and Iran could be within reach if the subject of talks is confined to Iran’s “non-production of nuclear weapons.”&nbsp;Ali Shamkhani wrote on X, “If the main issue of the negotiations is Iran’s non-production of nuclear weapons, this is consistent with the Leader’s fatwa and Iran’s defense doctrine, and an immediate agreement is within reach." The former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander added that Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is in Geneva, has “sufficient support and authority to conclude such an agreement.”<h2>Third round of US-Iran talks</h2>After the talks were concluded with "great seriousness," the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said, “What I can tell you is that, in both the nuclear field and the issue of sanctions relief, very important and practical proposals and initiatives were presented, and both delegations pursued the discussions with great seriousness."&nbsp;Earlier, the White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday (Feb 24) that the US President Donald Trump prefers diplomacy as a first option on Iran but is prepared to use lethal force if necessary.<h2>Russia to play a part in US-Iran nuclear issue?</h2>Last week, Russia came forward and said that it was ready to accept enriched uranium from Iran as part of efforts to resolve the matter. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday (Feb 18), “We had an initiative and stated our readiness to accept enriched uranium, which was discussed." He added that the outcome of the Iran-US talks should not be prejudged and that it was entirely a matter between the US and Iran.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-terror-anywhere-threatens-peace-everywhere-says-indian-pm-as-netanyahu-welcomes-brother-modi-in-knesset-1772035104138">'Terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere,' says Indian PM as Netanyahu welcomes 'brother Modi' in Knesset</a>&nbsp;This came as Iran and Russia announced a joint naval manoeuvres in the Sea of Oman tomorrow, as per Iranian media. “The joint naval exercise of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Russia will take place tomorrow in the Sea of Oman and in the northern Indian Ocean,” the ISNA agency reported, quoting drill spokesman, Rear Admiral Hassan Maghsoudloo. “The aim is to strengthen maritime security and to deepen relations between the navies of the two countries," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The third round of US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva ended positively, with Ali Shamkhani saying an immediate deal is possible if limited to non-production of nuclear weapons and sanctions relief discussions.

As the third round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran concluded in Geneva on Thursday (Feb 26), the key adviser of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said that an “immediate agreement” between the United States and Iran could be within reach if the subject of talks is confined to Iran’s “non-production of nuclear weapons.” Ali Shamkhani wrote on X, “If the main issue of the negotiations is Iran’s non-production of nuclear weapons, this is consistent with the Leader’s fatwa and Iran’s defense doctrine, and an immediate agreement is within reach." The former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander added that Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is in Geneva, has “sufficient support and authority to conclude such an agreement.” Third round of US-Iran talks After the talks were concluded with "great seriousness," the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said, “What I can tell you is that, in both the nuclear field and the issue of sanctions relief, very important and practical proposals and initiatives were presented, and both delegations pursued the discussions with great seriousness." Earlier, the White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday (Feb 24) that the US President Donald Trump prefers diplomacy as a first option on Iran but is prepared to use lethal force if necessary. Russia to play a part in US-Iran nuclear issue? Last week, Russia came forward and said that it was ready to accept enriched uranium from Iran as part of efforts to resolve the matter. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday (Feb 18), “We had an initiative and stated our readiness to accept enriched uranium, which was discussed." He added that the outcome of the Iran-US talks should not be prejudged and that it was entirely a matter between the US and Iran. Also read: 'Terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere,' says Indian PM as Netanyahu welcomes 'brother Modi' in Knesset This came as Iran and Russia announced a joint naval manoeuvres in the Sea of Oman tomorrow, as per Iranian media. “The joint naval exercise of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Russia will take place tomorrow in the Sea of Oman and in the northern Indian Ocean,” the ISNA agency reported, quoting drill spokesman, Rear Admiral Hassan Maghsoudloo. “The aim is to strengthen maritime security and to deepen relations between the navies of the two countries," he added.

The third round of US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva ended positively, with Ali Shamkhani saying an immediate deal is possible if limited to non-production of nuclear weapons and sanctions relief discussions.

Deal with US possible if talks stay confined to ‘non-production of nuclear weapons’: Ali Khamenei’s aide

Afghanistan has initiated offensive actions against Pakistani military positions along the border, according to Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid on Thursday (February 26). The move comes in retaliation for recent Pakistani airstrikes. “In response to repeated provocations and violations by Pakistani military circles, large-scale offensive operations have been launched against Pakistani military positions and installations along the Durand Line,” Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban administration, said in a post on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deal-with-us-possible-if-talks-stay-confined-to-non-production-of-nuclear-weapons-ali-khamenei-s-aide-1772124755682">Deal with US possible if talks stay confined to ‘non-production of nuclear weapons’: Ali Khamenei’s aide</a>&nbsp;According to the Afghan Ministry of Defense, Afghan forces have seized 15 Pakistani military posts along the Durand Line. These include two positions in the Nawo area of Nangarhar’s Dor Baba district, three in the Anargi area of Gushteh district, and two in the Doklam area of Konar Naray district. The Afghan government stated that the operation was carried out in response to Pakistani military attacks and warned that further retaliation could follow.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-intel-on-us-deployment-aids-iran-as-talks-hover-between-war-peace-1772126951959/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-intel-on-us-deployment-aids-iran-as-talks-hover-between-war-peace-1772126951959/embed</a>&nbsp;Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have continued to rise, with both countries accusing each other of initiating clashes and breaching the ceasefire. Earlier, Pakistan said it had targeted hideouts belonging to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State, Khorasan Province (ISKP) inside Afghanistan. Kabul, however, claimed that Pakistani airstrikes resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children.&nbsp;The cross-border strikes occurred just days after a suicide attacker rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a security checkpoint in Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing 11 soldiers and a child. Officials later identified the bomber as an Afghan national. In a separate incident in Bannu, another suicide blast claimed the lives of two soldiers, including a lieutenant colonel. In response to the attacks, Pakistan’s military declared that it would show no restraint and would continue pursuing those responsible “irrespective of their location,” underscoring the escalating tensions between Islamabad and Kabul.

Afghanistan launches retaliatory strikes on Pakistan, says Taliban military

Afghanistan has initiated offensive actions against Pakistani military positions along the border, according to Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid on Thursday (February 26). The move comes in retaliation for recent Pakistani airstrikes. “In response to repeated provocations and violations by Pakistani military circles, large-scale offensive operations have been launched against Pakistani military positions and installations along the Durand Line,” Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban administration, said in a post on X. Also Read: Deal with US possible if talks stay confined to ‘non-production of nuclear weapons’: Ali Khamenei’s aide According to the Afghan Ministry of Defense, Afghan forces have seized 15 Pakistani military posts along the Durand Line. These include two positions in the Nawo area of Nangarhar’s Dor Baba district, three in the Anargi area of Gushteh district, and two in the Doklam area of Konar Naray district. The Afghan government stated that the operation was carried out in response to Pakistani military attacks and warned that further retaliation could follow. https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-intel-on-us-deployment-aids-iran-as-talks-hover-between-war-peace-1772126951959/embed Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have continued to rise, with both countries accusing each other of initiating clashes and breaching the ceasefire. Earlier, Pakistan said it had targeted hideouts belonging to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State, Khorasan Province (ISKP) inside Afghanistan. Kabul, however, claimed that Pakistani airstrikes resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children. The cross-border strikes occurred just days after a suicide attacker rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a security checkpoint in Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing 11 soldiers and a child. Officials later identified the bomber as an Afghan national. In a separate incident in Bannu, another suicide blast claimed the lives of two soldiers, including a lieutenant colonel. In response to the attacks, Pakistan’s military declared that it would show no restraint and would continue pursuing those responsible “irrespective of their location,” underscoring the escalating tensions between Islamabad and Kabul.

Afghanistan launches border offensive against Pakistan after airstrikes, Taliban spokesperson says, citing repeated provocations

Instagram has introduced a new safety measure aimed at improving protection for teenagers. The platform will soon notify parents if their teen repeatedly searches for topics related to suicide or self-harm within a brief timeframe. These notifications will only be sent to guardians who are signed up for Instagram’s parental supervision program. The update comes as parent company Meta faces ongoing legal challenges concerning the alleged mental health impact of its platforms on young users.&nbsp;Instagram already prevents explicit self-harm or suicide-related content from appearing in teen search results and instead provides links to crisis support resources. With the new feature, alerts will be delivered to enrolled parents via email, text message, WhatsApp, and through notifications on their own Instagram accounts, depending on the contact details they have shared. The rollout is expected to begin in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada in the coming weeks, with additional countries set to follow later this year.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danish-pm-mette-frederiksen-calls-snap-election-amid-popularity-surge-for-resisting-trump-s-bid-to-acquire-greenland-1772120220927">Danish PM Mette Frederiksen calls snap election amid popularity surge for resisting Trump’s bid to acquire Greenland</a>&nbsp;In a statement about the update, Meta said it intends to use the feature carefully to avoid excessive or unnecessary alerts, noting that too many notifications could reduce their effectiveness. The company explained that the goal is to help parents recognize when their teen may need emotional support. Meta also revealed it is developing a similar alert system tied to its artificial intelligence tools. Parents may be informed if a teen attempts to initiate certain AI-driven conversations involving self-harm or suicide.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mexico-s-president-claudia-sheinbaum-pushes-for-major-electoral-reforms-1772120706469/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/mexico-s-president-claudia-sheinbaum-pushes-for-major-electoral-reforms-1772120706469/embed</a>&nbsp;The announcement arrives amid mounting legal pressure. Meta and several other social media firms are facing lawsuits from thousands of families, school districts, and public agencies. The plaintiffs argue that these platforms are intentionally designed to be addictive and lack sufficient safeguards to shield children from harmful content linked to depression, eating disorders, and suicidal thoughts.&nbsp;Two separate trials involving Meta are currently underway. One case in Los Angeles is examining allegations that the company’s platforms foster addiction among minors, while another proceeding in New Mexico is focused on claims that Meta failed to adequately protect children from sexual exploitation online.

Instagram to roll out parental notifications for suicide-related searches amid ongoing legal challenges

Instagram has introduced a new safety measure aimed at improving protection for teenagers. The platform will soon notify parents if their teen repeatedly searches for topics related to suicide or self-harm within a brief timeframe. These notifications will only be sent to guardians who are signed up for Instagram’s parental supervision program. The update comes as parent company Meta faces ongoing legal challenges concerning the alleged mental health impact of its platforms on young users. Instagram already prevents explicit self-harm or suicide-related content from appearing in teen search results and instead provides links to crisis support resources. With the new feature, alerts will be delivered to enrolled parents via email, text message, WhatsApp, and through notifications on their own Instagram accounts, depending on the contact details they have shared. The rollout is expected to begin in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada in the coming weeks, with additional countries set to follow later this year. Also Read: Danish PM Mette Frederiksen calls snap election amid popularity surge for resisting Trump’s bid to acquire Greenland In a statement about the update, Meta said it intends to use the feature carefully to avoid excessive or unnecessary alerts, noting that too many notifications could reduce their effectiveness. The company explained that the goal is to help parents recognize when their teen may need emotional support. Meta also revealed it is developing a similar alert system tied to its artificial intelligence tools. Parents may be informed if a teen attempts to initiate certain AI-driven conversations involving self-harm or suicide. https://www.wionews.com/videos/mexico-s-president-claudia-sheinbaum-pushes-for-major-electoral-reforms-1772120706469/embed The announcement arrives amid mounting legal pressure. Meta and several other social media firms are facing lawsuits from thousands of families, school districts, and public agencies. The plaintiffs argue that these platforms are intentionally designed to be addictive and lack sufficient safeguards to shield children from harmful content linked to depression, eating disorders, and suicidal thoughts. Two separate trials involving Meta are currently underway. One case in Los Angeles is examining allegations that the company’s platforms foster addiction among minors, while another proceeding in New Mexico is focused on claims that Meta failed to adequately protect children from sexual exploitation online.

Instagram will notify enrolled parents if teens repeatedly search for suicide or self-harm topics, expanding safety efforts amid Meta trials

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Thursday announced snap parliamentary elections on March 24 as her party sees a surge in popularity after she pushed back against US President Donald Trump’s aggressive bid to acquire the Danish territory of Greenland. “This will be a decisive election, because it will be in the next four years that we as Danes and as Europeans will really have to stand on our own feet,” Frederiksen said.&nbsp;“We need to define our relationship with the United States, and we must rearm to ensure peace on our continent. We must stick together in Europe, and we must secure the future of the Danish Commonwealth,” she told parliament, referring to the Danish Kingdom that consists of Denmark, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands.&nbsp;In Denmark, a general election is held every four years, but the prime minister can call one at any time.The last election was held on November 1, 2022, and resulted in a three-party coalition.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-economic-forum-chief-borge-brende-quits-over-his-links-with-epstein-1772107692150">World Economic Forum chief Borge Brende quits over his links with Epstein</a>&nbsp;Mette Frederiksen has earned recognition at home and on the global stage for her efforts to push back against President Trump’s efforts to acquire the semi-autonomous Danish territory.&nbsp;<h2>Recent Danish politics dominated by Trump’s threats to annex Greenland</h2>&nbsp;The past few months of Danish politics have been dominated by Trump’s threats to annex Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory.Last month, Trump dropped threats to use force against the fellow NATO ally to seize the Arctic island he argues is necessary to defend against possible attacks from Russia and China.&nbsp;More than 100 US military personnel are permanently stationed at a US base in Greenland’s northwestern tip, a facility operated by the US since World War Two.Under existing agreements with Denmark, the US has the power to bring as many troops as it wants to Greenland.Backed by their European allies, both Denmark and Greenland have said they will not agree to cede sovereignty to the US.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suicide-bomber-blows-himself-up-near-pakistan-checkpost-4-cops-dead-1772038584936">Suicide bomber blows himself up near Pakistan checkpost; 4 cops dead | Video</a><h2>‘Security is and will remain the very foundation of Danish politics’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;PM Frederiksen told parliament that security is and will remain the very foundation of Danish politics for many, many years to come.&nbsp;“Whether I will continue to be your prime minister depends on how strong a mandate you give the Social Democrats,” Frederiksen said, mentioning her party, the lead partner in the ruling coalition.Greenland is sparsely populated, but its location between North America and the Arctic makes it well-placed for early warning systems in the event of missile attacks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-orders-blanket-ban-on-ncert-textbook-says-heads-must-roll-1772104695420">Supreme Court orders blanket ban on NCERT textbook, says ‘heads must roll’</a>&nbsp;The Danish government is a cross-partisan coalition of PM Frederiksen’s Social Democrats, the centre-right Liberal Party led by Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen, and the Moderates, led by Lars Lokke Rasmussen, the foreign minister who has twice served as prime minister.

In Denmark, a general election is held every four years, but the prime minister can call one at any time. The last election was held on November 1, 2022, and resulted in a three-party coalition. The past few months of Danish politics have been dominated by Trump’s threats to annex Greenland.

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Thursday announced snap parliamentary elections on March 24 as her party sees a surge in popularity after she pushed back against US President Donald Trump’s aggressive bid to acquire the Danish territory of Greenland. “This will be a decisive election, because it will be in the next four years that we as Danes and as Europeans will really have to stand on our own feet,” Frederiksen said. “We need to define our relationship with the United States, and we must rearm to ensure peace on our continent. We must stick together in Europe, and we must secure the future of the Danish Commonwealth,” she told parliament, referring to the Danish Kingdom that consists of Denmark, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands. In Denmark, a general election is held every four years, but the prime minister can call one at any time. The last election was held on November 1, 2022, and resulted in a three-party coalition. Also Read: World Economic Forum chief Borge Brende quits over his links with Epstein Mette Frederiksen has earned recognition at home and on the global stage for her efforts to push back against President Trump’s efforts to acquire the semi-autonomous Danish territory. Recent Danish politics dominated by Trump’s threats to annex Greenland The past few months of Danish politics have been dominated by Trump’s threats to annex Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory. Last month, Trump dropped threats to use force against the fellow NATO ally to seize the Arctic island he argues is necessary to defend against possible attacks from Russia and China. More than 100 US military personnel are permanently stationed at a US base in Greenland’s northwestern tip, a facility operated by the US since World War Two. Under existing agreements with Denmark, the US has the power to bring as many troops as it wants to Greenland. Backed by their European allies, both Denmark and Greenland have said they will not agree to cede sovereignty to the US. Also Read: Suicide bomber blows himself up near Pakistan checkpost; 4 cops dead | Video ‘Security is and will remain the very foundation of Danish politics’ PM Frederiksen told parliament that security is and will remain the very foundation of Danish politics for many, many years to come. “Whether I will continue to be your prime minister depends on how strong a mandate you give the Social Democrats,” Frederiksen said, mentioning her party, the lead partner in the ruling coalition. Greenland is sparsely populated, but its location between North America and the Arctic makes it well-placed for early warning systems in the event of missile attacks. Also Read: Supreme Court orders blanket ban on NCERT textbook, says ‘heads must roll’ The Danish government is a cross-partisan coalition of PM Frederiksen’s Social Democrats, the centre-right Liberal Party led by Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen, and the Moderates, led by Lars Lokke Rasmussen, the foreign minister who has twice served as prime minister.

In Denmark, a general election is held every four years, but the prime minister can call one at any time. The last election was held on November 1, 2022, and resulted in a three-party coalition. The past few months of Danish politics have been dominated by Trump’s threats to annex Greenland.

Danish PM Mette Frederiksen calls snap election amid popularity surge for resisting Trump’s bid to acquire Greenland

Months after an Indian-origin paediatrician was accused of killing her four-year-old daughter at a rental property in Miami, authorities have made public the chilling 911 call she placed on the night of the incident in June 2025. Dr. Neha Gupta, 37, who practices in Oklahoma, told investigators that her daughter, Aria Talathi, accidentally wandered out of the short-term rental home and fell into the swimming pool while they were asleep. The pair had travelled from Oklahoma to Florida when the tragedy occurred.&nbsp;In the emergency call, Gupta can be heard telling the dispatcher, "She was in the pool, I tried to save her, but I don't know how to swim," she is heard saying in the 911 recording released by authorities. “I tried to get her out.” Describing the moments leading up to the discovery, she said, "We were sleeping, and I heard some noise. She was in the pool, and I tried to save her, but I don't know how to swim. She went down in the pool."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/svalbard-doomsday-see-vault-new-seeds-from-guatemala-niger-1772111043010">Svalbard 'Doomsday Vault' just added new seeds from two first-time countries</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🇺🇸 📹 PEDIATRA ACUSADA POR MUERTE DE SU HIJA EN PISCINA Las cámaras de seguridad captaron a la madre y la niña en la vivienda de alquiler antes del hallazgo en la piscina. ¿Noticias y tendencias? ¡Sigue <a href="https://twitter.com/ULTIMAHORAENX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ULTIMAHORAENX</a> para MAS!🔔 Neha Gupta pediatra de Oklahoma… <a href="https://t.co/ol8cVhh9BR">pic.twitter.com/ol8cVhh9BR</a>&mdash; ⓍULTIMAHORAENX (@ULTIMAHORAENX) <a href="https://twitter.com/ULTIMAHORAENX/status/2026813448705785856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

When the dispatcher asked whether anyone else was present to help, Gupta responded, “No, it's just both of us here...It's just me...I tried my best to get her out.” Pressed further about the child’s condition, she said, “No, she's at the bottom of the pool...She's not moving.” The dispatcher urged her repeatedly to attempt a rescue and asked about the pool’s depth. Gupta replied, "I think it's nine feet, I don't know how deep," adding, "Yeah, I'm trying," as emergency crews were dispatched.&nbsp;Officers arrived shortly afterward, and Gupta went to let them inside. Police were then heard retrieving the child from the water. According to investigators, Gupta initially estimated that her daughter may have been in the pool for about 20 minutes. However, the autopsy reportedly revealed no water in the child’s lungs or stomach, leading authorities to conclude she had died before entering the pool. Detectives now allege that the four-year-old was smothered.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-israel-to-finalise-free-trade-agreement-soon-1772117994104/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-israel-to-finalise-free-trade-agreement-soon-1772117994104/embed</a>&nbsp;Gupta was subsequently taken into custody and remains jailed without bond. She and her legal team continue to insist that the child’s death was accidental. She is scheduled to appear in court again in May. At the time of the incident, the girl’s father had been pursuing full custody and had expressed concerns about Gupta’s mental health. He later told police he was unaware that his daughter had been taken to Florida.

'I tried to get her out': Chilling 911 call surfaces in case of Indian-origin doctor accused of killing daughter

Months after an Indian-origin paediatrician was accused of killing her four-year-old daughter at a rental property in Miami, authorities have made public the chilling 911 call she placed on the night of the incident in June 2025. Dr. Neha Gupta, 37, who practices in Oklahoma, told investigators that her daughter, Aria Talathi, accidentally wandered out of the short-term rental home and fell into the swimming pool while they were asleep. The pair had travelled from Oklahoma to Florida when the tragedy occurred. In the emergency call, Gupta can be heard telling the dispatcher, "She was in the pool, I tried to save her, but I don't know how to swim," she is heard saying in the 911 recording released by authorities. “I tried to get her out.” Describing the moments leading up to the discovery, she said, "We were sleeping, and I heard some noise. She was in the pool, and I tried to save her, but I don't know how to swim. She went down in the pool." Also Read: Svalbard 'Doomsday Vault' just added new seeds from two first-time countries

911 audio released in Miami case where an Oklahoma doctor is accused of staging a pool drowning to cover daughter’s death

US President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union address on Tuesday (Feb 25), made multiple claims that were inaccurate or lacked evidence. Among others, one of his claims was that Iran has “already developed missiles that can threaten Europe and our bases overseas and they’re working to build missiles that will soon reach the United States of America.”<h2>How true is the statement?</h2>It is correct that several major US military installations in the Middle East, such as in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, could be threatened by Tehran's ballistic missiles. But there is no evidence that the Islamic Republic has developed intercontinental ballistic missiles that can reach Western Europe or the United States.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-terror-anywhere-threatens-peace-everywhere-says-indian-pm-as-netanyahu-welcomes-brother-modi-in-knesset-1772035104138">'Terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere,' says Indian PM as Netanyahu welcomes 'brother Modi' in Knesset</a><h2>Trump's claim on Iran's nuke programme</h2>The American president said that he was amassing US military assets around Iran to ensure the country does not obtain a nuclear weapon. “They want to make a deal, but we haven’t heard those secret words: We will never have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/stephen-hawking-pictured-with-two-women-in-bikinis-during-event-organised-by-epstein-family-says-they-re-caregivers-1772109268579">Stephen Hawking pictured with two women in bikinis during event organised by Epstein, family says they’re ‘caregivers’</a>&nbsp;But in reality, Iran has made multiple statements that the country is not pursuing a nuclear bomb. Tehran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, on Tuesday, just after Trump's speech, said that Iran “will under no circumstances ever develop a nuclear weapon.”&nbsp;"Pillared on the understandings forged in the previous round, Iran will resume talks with the US in Geneva with a determination to achieve a fair and equitable deal in the shortest possible time," he said on X. "Our fundamental convictions are crystal clear: Iran will under no circumstances ever develop a nuclear weapon; neither will we Iranians ever forgo our right to harness the dividends of peaceful nuclear technology for our people," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump claimed Iran can threaten the US with missiles. While Iran can target regional US bases, no verified evidence shows it has operational intercontinental missiles reaching America.

US President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union address on Tuesday (Feb 25), made multiple claims that were inaccurate or lacked evidence. Among others, one of his claims was that Iran has “already developed missiles that can threaten Europe and our bases overseas and they’re working to build missiles that will soon reach the United States of America.” How true is the statement? It is correct that several major US military installations in the Middle East, such as in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, could be threatened by Tehran's ballistic missiles. But there is no evidence that the Islamic Republic has developed intercontinental ballistic missiles that can reach Western Europe or the United States. Also read: 'Terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere,' says Indian PM as Netanyahu welcomes 'brother Modi' in Knesset Trump's claim on Iran's nuke programme The American president said that he was amassing US military assets around Iran to ensure the country does not obtain a nuclear weapon. “They want to make a deal, but we haven’t heard those secret words: We will never have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said. Also read: Stephen Hawking pictured with two women in bikinis during event organised by Epstein, family says they’re ‘caregivers’ But in reality, Iran has made multiple statements that the country is not pursuing a nuclear bomb. Tehran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, on Tuesday, just after Trump's speech, said that Iran “will under no circumstances ever develop a nuclear weapon.” "Pillared on the understandings forged in the previous round, Iran will resume talks with the US in Geneva with a determination to achieve a fair and equitable deal in the shortest possible time," he said on X. "Our fundamental convictions are crystal clear: Iran will under no circumstances ever develop a nuclear weapon; neither will we Iranians ever forgo our right to harness the dividends of peaceful nuclear technology for our people," he added.

Donald Trump claimed Iran can threaten the US with missiles. While Iran can target regional US bases, no verified evidence shows it has operational intercontinental missiles reaching America.

Iran has already developed nuclear missile that can threaten US? Fact-checking Trump's claim

The latest tranche of Epstein Files, released on January 30, 2026, features a conversation between Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein discussing the possibility of removing US President Donald Trump from office on New Year's Eve of 2018. Steve Bannon and Epstein called Trump “borderline” and “dumbf**k".

Screenshot of EFTA01615544

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deepak-chopra-jeffrey-epstein-doj-files-messages-1771851261266">Deepak Chopra’s messages with Jeffrey Epstein revealed in new DOJ files</a>Steve Bannon was the Chief Security Strategist during Trump's first term. This conversation took place when democrats regained control of the House. Bannon was expressing his frustration about the US President's lack of a strategy for a response. “ WH has zero plan to punch back,” he texted.&nbsp;The message also features a conversation about “Madeleine Westerhout", who was working as Director of Oval Office Operations and personal secretary to Donald Trump during his first administration. In the mail between Epstein and Bannon, Epstein asks Bannon if he knows Madeleine Westerhout. Bannon responds, “Good kid” Epstein replied, “Doing God's work” Bannon laughs, “He's much more calm, but the sight of him in the residence in his undies is hard to fathom . I'll give you details when I see you,” replies Epstein.&nbsp;They were planning an intervention with Amendment 25, which is about Presidential succession. There is a part where Epstein calls Trump a “dumbfuck”. “He needs a bigger bully than himself. This is what you have to do .!! Don't ask his advice. Once you do that, he thinks you're a dope. Once you treat him with respect, he thinks youre a dope. And immediately loses respect for you. Thats why he listens to Ivanka. She knows he is a dumbfuck" wrote Epstein.Epstein then further asserts that Trump is having an affair with Madeleine Westerhout, which is why he spends much of his holiday away from family. In late 2025, she forcefully denied "absurd and defamatory" allegations stemming from newly released Jeffrey Epstein estate documents. These documents included a 2019 email from author Michael Wolff suggesting Trump had boasted of an affair with her, which she and her legal team called "unhinged from reality". &nbsp;

Newly released Epstein Files show Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein discussing removing Donald Trump via the 25th Amendment in 2018, with explosive private messages revealed.

The latest tranche of Epstein Files, released on January 30, 2026, features a conversation between Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein discussing the possibility of removing US President Donald Trump from office on New Year's Eve of 2018. Steve Bannon and Epstein called Trump “borderline” and “dumbf**k".

Newly released Epstein Files show Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein discussing removing Donald Trump via the 25th Amendment in 2018, with explosive private messages revealed.

Epstein Files reveal Bannon texts on removing Trump in 2018

The Congress party on Thursday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for humiliating India with his comments at the Knesset speech. In his speech, Modi pointed out that India recognised Israel on the date of his birth. In a social media post on the platform X, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh pointed out Albert Einstein's letter to Jawaharlal Nehru and Einstein's decline of the Presidency of Israel. He accused PM Modi of "unabashed defence" of the host and “diminishing India's moral standing”.&nbsp;Modi, in his speech at the Knesset, said that “we feel your pain” and “share your grief” referring to the October 7 attack on the innocent Israeli civilians, but did not confront the Israelis on the decades of occupation, historical injustice and disproportionate response against Palestine. He was severely criticised by opposition leaders in India, the West Asian Media, and Israeli human rights activists.&nbsp;"He acted and spoke like the leader of a minor state visiting a global power, desperate to curry favour. It should come as no surprise if images from the visit are later featured prominently in Netanyahu’s election campaign," wrote Israeli human rights activist Eitay Mack. Jairam Ramesh pointed out that ahead of Einstein's death, he wrote a letter to Jawaharlal Nehru on June 13, 1947.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-opposition-walkout-modi-knesset-visit-1772102397581">Israeli opposition walks out during Modi's Knesset visit</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Eitay Mack is a well-known Israeli lawyer and courageous human rights activist. He has exposed the sham of the Prime Minister’s much heralded( in the godi media) address to the Knesset yesterday that diminished India’s moral standing <a href="https://t.co/f0RnKkGQ6v">https://t.co/f0RnKkGQ6v</a>&mdash; Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jairam_Ramesh/status/2026896099823501623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Who writes such nonsense speech for Modi? Israel father India mother? <a href="https://t.co/hSezxqiaSW">pic.twitter.com/hSezxqiaSW</a>&mdash; Vijay Thottathil (@vijaythottathil) <a href="https://twitter.com/vijaythottathil/status/2026962989140816172?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;"I have paid a good deal of attention to this problem of Palestine and have read books and pamphlets on the subject issued on either side; yet I cannot say that I know all about it, or that I am competent to pass a final opinion as to what should be done. I know that the Jews have done a wonderful piece of work in Palestine and have raised the standards of the people there, but one question troubles me. After all these remarkable achievements, why have they failed to gain the goodwill of the Arabs? Why do they want to compel the Arabs to submit against their will to certain demands, Nehru asked.“Unless men are big enough on either side, which is just and generally agreeable to the parties concerned, I see no effective solution for the present.” India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, in his letter, pointed out that the way this conflict is heading is not towards “settlements” but towards “continuation”.&nbsp;"He [Mack] has exposed the sham of the Prime Minister's much heralded [In the godi media] address to the Knesset yesterday that diminished India's moral standing," wrote Jairam Ramesh in his post.&nbsp;Israel has been carrying out unprecedented air and ground strikes, killing at least 75,000 people in the Gaza Strip. It did not acknowledge UN authority, which has condemned the killing as "Genocide" and issued an arrest warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu; he should be arrested by international law if he ever sets foot in India. At this juntcure PM Modi's visit and his speech and omission of civilian casualty in Palestine is seen as a "moral cowardice" and “betrayal” of Gandhi's India. His statements like Israel is "Fatherland", and India is “Motherland” were mocked on social media. His framing that India stands "firmly, with full conviction" was seen by international media as the endorsement of the ongoing military operations.&nbsp;

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticised PM Narendra Modi’s Knesset speech, citing Albert Einstein’s 1947 letter to Jawaharlal Nehru and accusing Modi of harming India’s moral standing.

The Congress party on Thursday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for humiliating India with his comments at the Knesset speech. In his speech, Modi pointed out that India recognised Israel on the date of his birth. In a social media post on the platform X, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh pointed out Albert Einstein's letter to Jawaharlal Nehru and Einstein's decline of the Presidency of Israel. He accused PM Modi of "unabashed defence" of the host and “diminishing India's moral standing”. Modi, in his speech at the Knesset, said that “we feel your pain” and “share your grief” referring to the October 7 attack on the innocent Israeli civilians, but did not confront the Israelis on the decades of occupation, historical injustice and disproportionate response against Palestine. He was severely criticised by opposition leaders in India, the West Asian Media, and Israeli human rights activists. "He acted and spoke like the leader of a minor state visiting a global power, desperate to curry favour. It should come as no surprise if images from the visit are later featured prominently in Netanyahu’s election campaign," wrote Israeli human rights activist Eitay Mack. Jairam Ramesh pointed out that ahead of Einstein's death, he wrote a letter to Jawaharlal Nehru on June 13, 1947. Also Read: Israeli opposition walks out during Modi's Knesset visit

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticised PM Narendra Modi’s Knesset speech, citing Albert Einstein’s 1947 letter to Jawaharlal Nehru and accusing Modi of harming India’s moral standing.

Congress says Modi “diminished India’s moral standing” in Israel

Internet was set on fire after the late astrophysicist Stephen Hawking with two women in bikinis. Amid the speculations, his family claimed that the women were care givers. 

Stephen Hawking pictured with two women in bikinis during event organised by Epstein, family says they’re ‘caregivers’

Borge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum, has stepped down from his post amid scrutiny over his past interactions with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Brende announced on Thursday that he is stepping down, weeks after the organisation launched an independent review into his past interactions with Epstein.Brende, who took over the top role at the Geneva-based forum in 2017, made the announcement after disclosures from the US Justice Department showed that he had attended three business dinners with Epstein and had communicated with him via email and text messages.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-orders-blanket-ban-on-ncert-textbook-says-heads-must-roll-1772104695420">Supreme Court orders blanket ban on NCERT textbook, says ‘heads must roll’</a>&nbsp;“After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as President and CEO of the World Economic Forum. My time here, spanning 8-1/2 years, has been profoundly rewarding,” Brende said in a statement.“I am grateful for the incredible collaboration with my colleagues, partners, and constituents, and I believe now is the right moment for the Forum to continue its important work without distractions,” he added.&nbsp;However, the former foreign minister of Norway did not refer to Epstein in his statement announcing his resignation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/share-revenue-with-news-publishers-or-face-legal-action-minister-ashwini-vaishnaw-warns-platforms-1772103925985">‘Share revenue with news publishers or face legal action,’ minister Ashwini Vaishnaw warns platforms</a>&nbsp;In a separate communication, WEF co-chairs Andre Hoffmann and Larry Fink said an independent review conducted by outside counsel into Brende’s relationship with Epstein had been completed.According to the findings, there were no additional concerns beyond what had already been disclosed publicly.The WEF had launched the investigation earlier this year after renewed attention on Epstein’s contacts with global political and business figures following the release of Epstein files by the US Department of Justice.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-sanctions-over-30-individuals-and-entities-for-enabling-illicit-iranian-petroleum-sales-1772043577579">US Treasury sanctions over 30 individuals and entities for enabling illicit Iranian petroleum sales</a>&nbsp;The co-chairs said Alois Zwinggi will take over as interim president and chief executive with immediate effect. The WEF Board of Trustees will supervise the leadership transition and begin the process of identifying a permanent successor.The World Economic Forum is best known for organising its annual Davos summit, which brings together heads of state, corporate leaders, and civil society figures from around the world.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suicide-bomber-blows-himself-up-near-pakistan-checkpost-4-cops-dead-1772038584936">Suicide bomber blows himself up near Pakistan checkpost; 4 cops dead | Video</a>&nbsp;Brende’s departure closes a chapter marked by the forum’s expanding global profile, even as it navigates renewed questions over governance and accountability at the top.

WEF co-chairs Andre Hoffmann and Larry Fink said Alois Zwinggi will take over as interim president and chief executive with immediate effect. The WEF Board of Trustees will supervise the leadership transition and begin the process of identifying a permanent successor.

Borge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum, has stepped down from his post amid scrutiny over his past interactions with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Brende announced on Thursday that he is stepping down, weeks after the organisation launched an independent review into his past interactions with Epstein. Brende, who took over the top role at the Geneva-based forum in 2017, made the announcement after disclosures from the US Justice Department showed that he had attended three business dinners with Epstein and had communicated with him via email and text messages. Also Read: Supreme Court orders blanket ban on NCERT textbook, says ‘heads must roll’ “After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as President and CEO of the World Economic Forum. My time here, spanning 8-1/2 years, has been profoundly rewarding,” Brende said in a statement. “I am grateful for the incredible collaboration with my colleagues, partners, and constituents, and I believe now is the right moment for the Forum to continue its important work without distractions,” he added. However, the former foreign minister of Norway did not refer to Epstein in his statement announcing his resignation. Also Read: ‘Share revenue with news publishers or face legal action,’ minister Ashwini Vaishnaw warns platforms In a separate communication, WEF co-chairs Andre Hoffmann and Larry Fink said an independent review conducted by outside counsel into Brende’s relationship with Epstein had been completed. According to the findings, there were no additional concerns beyond what had already been disclosed publicly. The WEF had launched the investigation earlier this year after renewed attention on Epstein’s contacts with global political and business figures following the release of Epstein files by the US Department of Justice. Also Read: US Treasury sanctions over 30 individuals and entities for enabling illicit Iranian petroleum sales The co-chairs said Alois Zwinggi will take over as interim president and chief executive with immediate effect. The WEF Board of Trustees will supervise the leadership transition and begin the process of identifying a permanent successor. The World Economic Forum is best known for organising its annual Davos summit, which brings together heads of state, corporate leaders, and civil society figures from around the world. Also Read: Suicide bomber blows himself up near Pakistan checkpost; 4 cops dead | Video Brende’s departure closes a chapter marked by the forum’s expanding global profile, even as it navigates renewed questions over governance and accountability at the top.

WEF co-chairs Andre Hoffmann and Larry Fink said Alois Zwinggi will take over as interim president and chief executive with immediate effect. The WEF Board of Trustees will supervise the leadership transition and begin the process of identifying a permanent successor.

World Economic Forum chief Borge Brende quits over his links with Epstein

In a curious move, the Trump administration this week asked American diplomats across the world to oppose digital sovereignty initiatives of foreign countries. In a borderless world of technology, nations trying to protect sovereignty through various rules and regulations are being seen as potentially problematic for business, while also raising questions about the rule of law in the emerging world order of seamless internet and computing. So what is digital sovereignty? How are countries trying to protect it? And how is the US opposing it? Here is what you should know:<h2>What is digital sovereignty?</h2>Digital sovereignty is the ability of a nation, organisation, or individual to exercise control over their own digital destiny. It includes independent decision-making and governance on digital infrastructure, software, standards, data flows, storage, processing, and related technologies. It also aims to minimise undue dependence on or interference from foreign entities, governments, or companies. Digital sovereignty is about achieving autonomy in the digital realm to align with local laws, values, security needs, and economic priorities in a globally interconnected but geopolitically contested digital landscape.In practice, it involves protecting a nation’s digital infrastructure, software, standards, data flows, storage, processing, and related technologies. Preventing dependence on foreign entities while aligning with local laws, security, values, and economic priorities is another aspect. Digital sovereignty balances global connectivity with strategic autonomy.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-ai-impact-summit-sarvam-ai-on-india-s-ai-sovereignty-push-1771577981834/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-ai-impact-summit-sarvam-ai-on-india-s-ai-sovereignty-push-1771577981834/embed</a><h2>Key aspects of digital sovereignty</h2>Data sovereignty is control over data ownership, collection, storage, processing, flows, and transfers, and may include data localisation or cross-border restrictions.Technological and infrastructure sovereignty ensures autonomy over hardware, networks, cloud infrastructure, and critical systems, reducing reliance on foreign providers.Software and standards sovereignty is influence over software ecosystems, open standards, algorithms, and protocols to protect national interests.Operational sovereignty is the ability to make independent operational and regulatory decisions, avoid extraterritorial legal pressures, and foster domestic innovation.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-freedom-gov-portal-eu-content-vpn-digital-governance-1771479157581">US to launch an online portal featuring banned content from around the world</a><h2>Why is the US opposed to digital sovereignty of foreign nations?</h2>The US instructed diplomats to oppose foreign policies imposing data localisation or restricting US tech firms. In its view, such policies disrupt global data flows, increase costs, limit artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing deployment, expand government control, and could enable censorship. The underlying objective is for the US to maintain the global dominance of American tech firms, ensure economic advantage in AI and cloud computing, and counter foreign protectionism.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-restricts-calls-on-whatsapp-telegram-to-promote-digital-sovereignty-here-s-real-reason-behind-the-move-1755155215471">Russia restricts calls on WhatsApp, Telegram 'to promote digital sovereignty': Here's REAL reason behind the move</a><h2>From China to the European Union, how nations are asserting digital sovereignty</h2>China’s digital sovereignty ecosystem includes the Great Firewall, the Digital Silk Road, and support for domestic firms. China has some of the most assertive state-controlled digital sovereignty policies. Key laws include the Cybersecurity Law, covering AI governance, network obligations, and extraterritorial reach. The Data Security Law and the Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL) govern data classification, data localisation, and cross-border control. The 15th Five-Year Plan also addresses AI and technological self-reliance.&nbsp;India has taken a pragmatic, growth-oriented digital sovereignty strategy. The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act covers data protection, selective localisation, and cross-border discretion. The Economic Survey of 2025–26 favours open data flows. India is also creating local AI models, such as Sarvam AI (2026), and has sectoral policies for financial data and domestic infrastructure.The European Union follows a rights-based, regulation-heavy approach to digital sovereignty. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) governs personal data control. The Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulate platforms, competition, and antitrust. The Data Act covers industrial data access. The Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) implements risk-based AI regulation. The EU also has a Cloud Sovereignty Framework guiding cloud controls within the bloc, with ongoing work on the establishment of a European Data Union.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-india-must-build-own-ai-capacity-with-home-grown-data-says-top-eu-official-virkkunen-at-new-delhi-summit-1771403148699">EU &amp; India must build own AI capacity with home-grown data, says top EU official Virkkunen at New Delhi summit</a><h2>How foreign nations’ digital sovereignty affects the US</h2>US companies are affected by the data laws of countries where they have large customer bases. The EU’s GDPR, DSA, and Data Act impose strict data protection, cross-border limits, fines, and increasing compliance costs for US firms. India’s data localisation and Personal Data Protection rules require local infrastructure, raising operational costs for cloud and platform services. China’s Cybersecurity Law, Data Security Law, and PIPL enforce localisation and cross-border restrictions, limiting US market access and favouring domestic firms.These policies fragment the internet. Compliance with different countries’ digital sovereignty laws increases global operational costs and challenges the US model of open, innovation-driven digital markets.

Digital sovereignty is now becoming the next big geopolitical contest. This is pitting the US against other nations on issues like control over data, technology, and digital infrastructure. It is high time you know about it

In a curious move, the Trump administration this week asked American diplomats across the world to oppose digital sovereignty initiatives of foreign countries. In a borderless world of technology, nations trying to protect sovereignty through various rules and regulations are being seen as potentially problematic for business, while also raising questions about the rule of law in the emerging world order of seamless internet and computing. So what is digital sovereignty? How are countries trying to protect it? And how is the US opposing it? Here is what you should know: What is digital sovereignty? Digital sovereignty is the ability of a nation, organisation, or individual to exercise control over their own digital destiny. It includes independent decision-making and governance on digital infrastructure, software, standards, data flows, storage, processing, and related technologies. It also aims to minimise undue dependence on or interference from foreign entities, governments, or companies. Digital sovereignty is about achieving autonomy in the digital realm to align with local laws, values, security needs, and economic priorities in a globally interconnected but geopolitically contested digital landscape. In practice, it involves protecting a nation’s digital infrastructure, software, standards, data flows, storage, processing, and related technologies. Preventing dependence on foreign entities while aligning with local laws, security, values, and economic priorities is another aspect. Digital sovereignty balances global connectivity with strategic autonomy. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-ai-impact-summit-sarvam-ai-on-india-s-ai-sovereignty-push-1771577981834/embed Key aspects of digital sovereignty Data sovereignty is control over data ownership, collection, storage, processing, flows, and transfers, and may include data localisation or cross-border restrictions. Technological and infrastructure sovereignty ensures autonomy over hardware, networks, cloud infrastructure, and critical systems, reducing reliance on foreign providers. Software and standards sovereignty is influence over software ecosystems, open standards, algorithms, and protocols to protect national interests. Operational sovereignty is the ability to make independent operational and regulatory decisions, avoid extraterritorial legal pressures, and foster domestic innovation. Also read: US to launch an online portal featuring banned content from around the world Why is the US opposed to digital sovereignty of foreign nations? The US instructed diplomats to oppose foreign policies imposing data localisation or restricting US tech firms. In its view, such policies disrupt global data flows, increase costs, limit artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing deployment, expand government control, and could enable censorship. The underlying objective is for the US to maintain the global dominance of American tech firms, ensure economic advantage in AI and cloud computing, and counter foreign protectionism. Also read: Russia restricts calls on WhatsApp, Telegram 'to promote digital sovereignty': Here's REAL reason behind the move From China to the European Union, how nations are asserting digital sovereignty China’s digital sovereignty ecosystem includes the Great Firewall, the Digital Silk Road, and support for domestic firms. China has some of the most assertive state-controlled digital sovereignty policies. Key laws include the Cybersecurity Law, covering AI governance, network obligations, and extraterritorial reach. The Data Security Law and the Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL) govern data classification, data localisation, and cross-border control. The 15th Five-Year Plan also addresses AI and technological self-reliance. India has taken a pragmatic, growth-oriented digital sovereignty strategy. The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act covers data protection, selective localisation, and cross-border discretion. The Economic Survey of 2025–26 favours open data flows. India is also creating local AI models, such as Sarvam AI (2026), and has sectoral policies for financial data and domestic infrastructure. The European Union follows a rights-based, regulation-heavy approach to digital sovereignty. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) governs personal data control. The Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulate platforms, competition, and antitrust. The Data Act covers industrial data access. The Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) implements risk-based AI regulation. The EU also has a Cloud Sovereignty Framework guiding cloud controls within the bloc, with ongoing work on the establishment of a European Data Union. Also read: EU & India must build own AI capacity with home-grown data, says top EU official Virkkunen at New Delhi summit How foreign nations’ digital sovereignty affects the US US companies are affected by the data laws of countries where they have large customer bases. The EU’s GDPR, DSA, and Data Act impose strict data protection, cross-border limits, fines, and increasing compliance costs for US firms. India’s data localisation and Personal Data Protection rules require local infrastructure, raising operational costs for cloud and platform services. China’s Cybersecurity Law, Data Security Law, and PIPL enforce localisation and cross-border restrictions, limiting US market access and favouring domestic firms. These policies fragment the internet. Compliance with different countries’ digital sovereignty laws increases global operational costs and challenges the US model of open, innovation-driven digital markets.

Digital sovereignty is becoming the next big geopolitical contest. This is pitting the US against other nations on issues like control over data, technology, and digital infrastructure. It is high time you know about it

What is digital sovereignty, which the US wants to fight in foreign nations?

Israeli opposition walked out from Knesset ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and parliament speaker Amir Ohana's speech, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Knesset. However, opposition leader Yair Lapid re-entered the Parliament following Netanyahu’s speech, welcomed Prime Minister Modi and assured him it had “nothing to do with you”.&nbsp;The opposition leader, after walking out of the Parliament, issued a statement. “We will only return for the Indian prime minister’s speech to respect the alliance between the countries and express our appreciation for Prime Minister Modi’s standing by Israel,” read the statement. Israeli opposition, including Yesh Atid and Yisrael Beiteinu, has staged the walkout to protest the exclusion of Supreme Court President Isaac Amit from the session, which they viewed as a snub to the judiciary.&nbsp;To avoid the embarrassment of having empty seats on an international broadcast, the Knesset sent an email blast to all former legislators. This also included a few specific former members of the Knesset whom the speaker wanted to invite.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-swipe-modi-gaza-knesset-israel-visit-1772005822914">Hope he mentions the 'genocide' in Gaza: Priyanka Gandhi takes a jab at Modi</a>During the visit, PM Modi was conferred with the &nbsp;Speaker of the Knesset Medal, the highest honour of the Israeli Parliament. “The entire State of Israel is filled with admiration for your leadership, for your friendship, for the fact that you were here for us in our time of trouble, and for the alliance, the eternal alliance between our two states," he told Modi.PM Modi's visit to Israel was met with severe criticism from the West Asian media. His visit is seen as “strategic legitimising” of the “genocide” in Gaza. India has abandoned its historical "anti-colonial" moral standing. It is decoupling itself from Palestine and is failing to confront Israel on the issues of international law and human rights. Both Modi's India and Netanyahu's Israel have a shared friendship through Islamophobia and a common enemy of Islamic terrorism. Modi condemned the October 7 attack as “barbaric”, but did not mention the historical exploitation and injustice against the Palestinian in their homeland.&nbsp;

Israeli opposition staged a walkout in the Knesset during PM Narendra Modi’s visit, protesting the judiciary's exclusion, before returning to welcome the Indian leader.

Israeli opposition walked out from Knesset ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and parliament speaker Amir Ohana's speech, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Knesset. However, opposition leader Yair Lapid re-entered the Parliament following Netanyahu’s speech, welcomed Prime Minister Modi and assured him it had “nothing to do with you”. The opposition leader, after walking out of the Parliament, issued a statement. “We will only return for the Indian prime minister’s speech to respect the alliance between the countries and express our appreciation for Prime Minister Modi’s standing by Israel,” read the statement. Israeli opposition, including Yesh Atid and Yisrael Beiteinu, has staged the walkout to protest the exclusion of Supreme Court President Isaac Amit from the session, which they viewed as a snub to the judiciary. To avoid the embarrassment of having empty seats on an international broadcast, the Knesset sent an email blast to all former legislators. This also included a few specific former members of the Knesset whom the speaker wanted to invite. Also read: Hope he mentions the 'genocide' in Gaza: Priyanka Gandhi takes a jab at Modi During the visit, PM Modi was conferred with the Speaker of the Knesset Medal, the highest honour of the Israeli Parliament. “The entire State of Israel is filled with admiration for your leadership, for your friendship, for the fact that you were here for us in our time of trouble, and for the alliance, the eternal alliance between our two states," he told Modi. PM Modi's visit to Israel was met with severe criticism from the West Asian media. His visit is seen as “strategic legitimising” of the “genocide” in Gaza. India has abandoned its historical "anti-colonial" moral standing. It is decoupling itself from Palestine and is failing to confront Israel on the issues of international law and human rights. Both Modi's India and Netanyahu's Israel have a shared friendship through Islamophobia and a common enemy of Islamic terrorism. Modi condemned the October 7 attack as “barbaric”, but did not mention the historical exploitation and injustice against the Palestinian in their homeland.

Israeli opposition staged a walkout in the Knesset during PM Narendra Modi’s visit, protesting the judiciary's exclusion, before returning to welcome the Indian leader.

Israeli opposition stages walkout during Narendra Modi's Knesset visit

Addressing a joint press briefing with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (February 26) said that India and Israel have taken a landmark step to elevate their long-standing relationship to a special strategic partnership, reflecting the shared ambitions of both countries. In his joint statement after delegation-level talks with Netanyahu, Modi highlighted that the India-Israel strategic partnership, technological collaboration, and defence cooperation go far beyond traditional friendship. The two countries signed 16 agreements and made 11 announcements, resulting in a total of 27 significant bilateral outcomes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Several agreements were concluded to strengthen cooperation across sectors such as innovation and agriculture, following discussions between the two leaders. Speaking in Jerusalem, Netanyahu announced that both sides have agreed to hold a G2G meeting in India. He said, “As soon as we can arrange it, we would like to take the distinguished ministers who are here.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-political-row-deepens-as-jamaat-chief-shafiqur-rahman-questions-president-mohammed-shahabuddin-over-sheikh-hasina-s-resignation-1772101440243">Bangladesh political row deepens as Jamaat chief, Shafiqur Rahman, questions president Mohammed Shahabuddin over Sheikh Hasina's resignation</a>&nbsp;At the joint press statement, Netanyahu commended India’s governance, saying, “You have an amazingly efficient government.” He further said that the “meeting of minds and hearts” between the two leaders would continue through the long-awaited G2G engagement, enhancing the substantial mutual benefits both countries can achieve together.Emphasising the importance of peace, Modi said that humanity must never become a victim of conflict and reiterated that India has supported the Gaza peace plan. "India's stance is clear: Humanity must never become a victim of conflict. A path to peace has been created through the Gaza Peace Plan. India has fully supported these efforts. In the future as well, we will continue dialogue and cooperation with all countries," he was quoted as saying. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-israel-ties-modi-netanyahu-talks-likely-to-focus-on-defence-upgrades-1772102645148/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-israel-ties-modi-netanyahu-talks-likely-to-focus-on-defence-upgrades-1772102645148/embed</a>&nbsp;“An agreement has been reached for the use of UPI in Israel,” Indian PM Narendra Modi said. PM Modi said that India will advance collaboration with Israel in defense cooperation, focusing on joint development, production, and technology transfer.

'Humanity should never become victim of conflict', says PM Modi as India-Israel expand bilateral cooperation

Addressing a joint press briefing with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (February 26) said that India and Israel have taken a landmark step to elevate their long-standing relationship to a special strategic partnership, reflecting the shared ambitions of both countries. In his joint statement after delegation-level talks with Netanyahu, Modi highlighted that the India-Israel strategic partnership, technological collaboration, and defence cooperation go far beyond traditional friendship. The two countries signed 16 agreements and made 11 announcements, resulting in a total of 27 significant bilateral outcomes. Several agreements were concluded to strengthen cooperation across sectors such as innovation and agriculture, following discussions between the two leaders. Speaking in Jerusalem, Netanyahu announced that both sides have agreed to hold a G2G meeting in India. He said, “As soon as we can arrange it, we would like to take the distinguished ministers who are here.” Also Read: Bangladesh political row deepens as Jamaat chief, Shafiqur Rahman, questions president Mohammed Shahabuddin over Sheikh Hasina's resignation At the joint press statement, Netanyahu commended India’s governance, saying, “You have an amazingly efficient government.” He further said that the “meeting of minds and hearts” between the two leaders would continue through the long-awaited G2G engagement, enhancing the substantial mutual benefits both countries can achieve together. Emphasising the importance of peace, Modi said that humanity must never become a victim of conflict and reiterated that India has supported the Gaza peace plan. "India's stance is clear: Humanity must never become a victim of conflict. A path to peace has been created through the Gaza Peace Plan. India has fully supported these efforts. In the future as well, we will continue dialogue and cooperation with all countries," he was quoted as saying. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-israel-ties-modi-netanyahu-talks-likely-to-focus-on-defence-upgrades-1772102645148/embed “An agreement has been reached for the use of UPI in Israel,” Indian PM Narendra Modi said. PM Modi said that India will advance collaboration with Israel in defense cooperation, focusing on joint development, production, and technology transfer.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed measures to boost bilateral relations, enhance strategic collaboration, and strengthen people-to-people connections

A family in India’s Madhya Pradesh has claimed that the British government owes them a loan of Rs 35,000, which the then administration failed to repay during the First World War in 1917. The family of late businessman Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia has said that they are now exploring legal options to recover the ancestral debt with interest.Vivek Ruthia, 63, has alleged that his grandfather, Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia, gave a loan of Rs 35,000 in 1917 to W S Dawis, the then political agent in Bhopal under British rule. The family has said that the amount was given to help with the management of administration in Bhopal. However, the money has still not been paid back.A certificate preserved by the family, dated June 4, 1917, states that Seth Jumma Lal, of the firm Seth Rama Kishan Jaskaran Ruthia, “subscribed Rs 35,000 to the Indian War Loan and thereby showed his loyalty to the Government and Empire.” The document carries the signature of W S Davis, then Political Agent in Bhopal.Under British rule, Political Agents acted as intermediaries between the British administration and princely states and looked after government matters, ensuring alignment with imperial authority.Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia passed away in 1937, about 20 years after making the subscription. India gained independence in 1947, and the family maintains that no repayment or settlement was ever made.Ruthia said that he is now consulting lawyers to explore whether a financial claim linked to a colonial-era Indian War Loan can be pursued against the present-day United Kingdom. Although no legal notice has been issued yet.“It’s not just about money, it’s about justice and history,” he said. The original sum of Rs 35,000 could now be worth more than Rs 10 crore after being adjusted for compound interest, inflation or gold prices.However, legal experts have said that pursuing such a claim would involve significant challenges, including limitation laws, sovereign immunity and jurisdictional complexities. For now, the 1917 certificate remains a historical document in the family’s possession.

A Madhya Pradesh family claims the British government owes Rs 35,000 from a 1917 Indian War Loan. They are exploring legal options, saying the sum with interest could now exceed Rs 10 crore.

A family in India’s Madhya Pradesh has claimed that the British government owes them a loan of Rs 35,000, which the then administration failed to repay during the First World War in 1917. The family of late businessman Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia has said that they are now exploring legal options to recover the ancestral debt with interest. Vivek Ruthia, 63, has alleged that his grandfather, Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia, gave a loan of Rs 35,000 in 1917 to W S Dawis, the then political agent in Bhopal under British rule. The family has said that the amount was given to help with the management of administration in Bhopal. However, the money has still not been paid back. A certificate preserved by the family, dated June 4, 1917, states that Seth Jumma Lal, of the firm Seth Rama Kishan Jaskaran Ruthia, “subscribed Rs 35,000 to the Indian War Loan and thereby showed his loyalty to the Government and Empire.” The document carries the signature of W S Davis, then Political Agent in Bhopal. Under British rule, Political Agents acted as intermediaries between the British administration and princely states and looked after government matters, ensuring alignment with imperial authority. Seth Jumma Lal Ruthia passed away in 1937, about 20 years after making the subscription. India gained independence in 1947, and the family maintains that no repayment or settlement was ever made. Ruthia said that he is now consulting lawyers to explore whether a financial claim linked to a colonial-era Indian War Loan can be pursued against the present-day United Kingdom. Although no legal notice has been issued yet. “It’s not just about money, it’s about justice and history,” he said. The original sum of Rs 35,000 could now be worth more than Rs 10 crore after being adjusted for compound interest, inflation or gold prices. However, legal experts have said that pursuing such a claim would involve significant challenges, including limitation laws, sovereign immunity and jurisdictional complexities. For now, the 1917 certificate remains a historical document in the family’s possession.

A Madhya Pradesh family claims the British government owes Rs 35,000 from a 1917 Indian War Loan. They are exploring legal options, saying the sum with interest could now exceed Rs 10 crore.

Indian family claims British government owes them over 100-year-old loan – Will UK repay?

In what sparks speculations about China's role in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US, a Chinese commercial satellite analysis company has shared images showing the US military build-up around Iran. The pictures from this China’s military and a tech firm are of high-resolution &nbsp;and shows teh exact location of the US warships and deployment around Iran amid US President Donald Trump's threat of a strike on the country if nuclear talks fail this week. The Chinese commercial satellite analysis company MizarVision show the latest American deployments at bases in Qatar, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. According to the images, 18 F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters and six EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft &nbsp;are seen on the tarmac of the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-to-meet-in-geneva-for-an-off-ramp-trump-warns-of-strikes-if-diplomacy-fails-1772096372012/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-to-meet-in-geneva-for-an-off-ramp-trump-warns-of-strikes-if-diplomacy-fails-1772096372012/embed</a>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cia-farsi-recruitment-iran-trump-us-iran-talks-1772082947693">CIA posts Farsi video urging Iranians to share intelligence online</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MizarVision has released new satellite imagery confirming 11 U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor stealth fighters deployed at Ovda Air Base in Israel. The images also appear to show components of an air defense battery, likely associated with the MIM-104 Patriot missile defense system. <a href="https://t.co/qDtFyFRoRD">https://t.co/qDtFyFRoRD</a> <a href="https://t.co/hXYjH8DUio">pic.twitter.com/hXYjH8DUio</a>&mdash; Egypt&#39;s Intel Observer (@EGYOSINT) <a href="https://twitter.com/EGYOSINT/status/2026913804550885509?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What we know about Iran-US tensions</h2>Iran and the US are at the peak of tensions with nuclear talks scheduled on Feb 26. In his State of Union speech, Trump claimed that Islamic Republic is building missiles that can strike the United States, while warning that he will not allow “number 1 terror sponsor” to have nuclear weapons. The POTUS also said that the Iranian regime has spread terrorism and death “since they seized control of that proud country 47 years ago.” Speaking about the protests in Iran, Trump claimed that the Iranian regime has killed as many as 32 thousand people. He praised Op Midnight Hammer and said that the US had wiped out Iranian nuclear energy but "they want to start all over again, and are at this moment, again, pursuing their sinister ambitions.” Notably, Trump also mentioned late Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in his speech and reminded the country of how he was killed by the US.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-trump-targets-iran-s-shadow-fleet-sanctions-aimed-iran-s-ballistic-missiles-1772075693453">US-Iran tensions: Trump targets Iran's shadow fleet, sanctions aimed Iran's ballistic missiles</a><h2>How Iran reacted?</h2>Iran said that US President Trump's claims about nuclear facilities and ballistic missiles are “big lies” as the POTUS expressed his desire to hear the “secret words” of no nuclear weapon from the Iranian regime. The Iranian foreign ministry did not name Trump in its statement but called out the claims by him. Meanwhile, in an interview with India Today, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Iran is prepared for war as well as peace ahead of Geneva talks, but expressed hopes for a deal. He slammed Israel for attempting to derail Iran-US ties. He also said that Trump's opinion about Iran has been formed by misunderstanding and external influence rather than direct engagement with Iranian society. He repeated Iran's stance on nuclear talks and said that “nuclear energy is the right of Iran”, while also insisting that Iran will never develop a nuclear weapon.

China’s military and tech firm MizarVision released satellite images showing US military buildup in Qatar, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. The visuals, featuring F-35 jets and Growlers, come amid reports that Washington may launch a strike on Iran soon.

In what sparks speculations about China's role in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US, a Chinese commercial satellite analysis company has shared images showing the US military build-up around Iran. The pictures from this China’s military and a tech firm are of high-resolution and shows teh exact location of the US warships and deployment around Iran amid US President Donald Trump's threat of a strike on the country if nuclear talks fail this week. The Chinese commercial satellite analysis company MizarVision show the latest American deployments at bases in Qatar, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. According to the images, 18 F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters and six EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft are seen on the tarmac of the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-to-meet-in-geneva-for-an-off-ramp-trump-warns-of-strikes-if-diplomacy-fails-1772096372012/embed Also Read: CIA posts Farsi video urging Iranians to share intelligence online

China’s military and tech firm MizarVision released satellite images showing US military buildup in Qatar, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. The visuals, featuring F-35 jets and Growlers, come amid reports that Washington may launch a strike on Iran soon.

China helping Iran amid possible US strike? New images of American military buildup spark speculation

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